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A Nutcracker Christmas: An enchanted Christmas romance!
Suddenly let go from her news anchor position, Aria Roberts heads north to stay at her late Great-Aunt Clara’s house. She has many good memories there and wishes to give Clara’s Christmas Shoppe, which is located on the first floor of the Victorian mansion, one final holiday season. When Aria arrives, she finds the special gift Clara left for her—an antique nutcracker with a poem hidden under the back lever. Aria reads the poem out loud. At sundown that night, those words magically bring the nutcracker to life.
Kort Zellner awakes inside the familiar surroundings of Clara’s house but learns she has passed away and now her great-niece resides there. The curse placed on him three hundred years ago traps him in the form of a nutcracker but allows him to return every December 1st through midnight on Christmas Day—only between sundown and sunrise.
After some convincing, Aria believes Kort’s strange story. She helps him experience life as he is gifted so few hours alive and in doing so, falls in love. He knows his curse makes it impossible to give her the constant relationship she deserves. His plan to leave her forever on Christmas Day collides with Aria’s desire to build a future together, even if for only twenty-five nights a year.
Kort Zellner awakes inside the familiar surroundings of Clara’s house but learns she has passed away and now her great-niece resides there. The curse placed on him three hundred years ago traps him in the form of a nutcracker but allows him to return every December 1st through midnight on Christmas Day—only between sundown and sunrise.
After some convincing, Aria believes Kort’s strange story. She helps him experience life as he is gifted so few hours alive and in doing so, falls in love. He knows his curse makes it impossible to give her the constant relationship she deserves. His plan to leave her forever on Christmas Day collides with Aria’s desire to build a future together, even if for only twenty-five nights a year.
291 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 11, 2021
2 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Laurie Winter
22 books524 followersPublishers Weekly bestselling author Laurie Winter is a true warrior of the heart. Inspired by her dreams, she creates authentic characters who overcome the odds and find true love. She balances her life with regular yoga practice and binge-watching true-crime TV. She's likely fueling up on wine, cheese curds, and Reese's Peanut Butter Cups when not pounding the keyboard.
Follow Laurie as she lives out her dreams at lauriewinter.com
Follow Laurie as she lives out her dreams at lauriewinter.com
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
January 1, 2024
This was the 19th Christmas book read during the 2023 holidays. I didn't quite make the deadline for 2023. This was a story based on the Nutcracker with a little magic thrown in. The MC's are over 40, the H born in 1700 and had a curse put upon him for 300 years. He came alive for the first 25 days of December after sundown until sunup, and Aria (h) a 48 year old divorcee and recent TV news anchor (laid off ageism) with a 20 year old daughter discovered Kort Zellner after she read the note attached to the nutcracker left to her by her great aunt Clara. Kort had lived with her great aunt for over 60 years. She left the nutcracker to Aria in her will. Aria opened up her Aunt Clara's Christmas house for the month of December selling Christmas themed items. Once she believed Kort's story about his curse then she let him stay in the house and help her run the Christmas store. It was a lovely story with magic and love in the air. It definitely had the Hallmark feel to it. I gave this 4 stars.
January 2, 2022
One of the first things that struck me as I began reading A Nutcracker Christmas by Laurie Winter was the engaging writing voice. It pulled me immediately into the story, into the season, and into the characters of Aria and – a bit later – Kort. When done well, I adore magical realism in any story, but especially in a Christmas setting, and Winter is skilled at setting up the backstory, the timing, and the plausibility of the magical realism elements in the book. Nothing took me out of the story because of awkward flow or disbelief, and I was fully invested in finding out how Aria and Kort’s romance would play out. I mean, romance is tough enough… throw in the fact that he is cursed to be a lifeless figurine during the day and only comes to life at sunset every night … for only 25 nights each December … and you’ve got quite the obstacle to happily ever after.
Another thing I appreciated about this book is that the author didn’t ignore the fact that Kort was a real person (in fictiondom anyway) with memories of his life in 1700s Bavaria (yes, you read that right) and memories of his 25 December nights each year that the poem was read aloud. He had children, he had a career and a hobby that he loved, he had a future to look forward to. Now he feels that he is in a hopeless cycle of an existence where ‘life’ seems just out of reach. The steps that Aria (and her great-aunt before her) took to honor his past and help him have a future were heartwarming and added an extra dimension to his character & to the story itself.
Bottom Line: A Nutcracker Christmas combines three of my fave things in fiction – Christmas, romance, and magical realism. I loved the way the author set up & revealed the story of the curse, and I also loved watching Aria try to figure out how to break it. The sparks between her and Kort were swoony but it was the sweetness of their falling-in-love that touched me the most. Both characters are layered and likable, and so is their story. This would make a fun Hallmark-esque movie, in my opinion. A delightful way to spend a few hours between the pages of a book!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Another thing I appreciated about this book is that the author didn’t ignore the fact that Kort was a real person (in fictiondom anyway) with memories of his life in 1700s Bavaria (yes, you read that right) and memories of his 25 December nights each year that the poem was read aloud. He had children, he had a career and a hobby that he loved, he had a future to look forward to. Now he feels that he is in a hopeless cycle of an existence where ‘life’ seems just out of reach. The steps that Aria (and her great-aunt before her) took to honor his past and help him have a future were heartwarming and added an extra dimension to his character & to the story itself.
Bottom Line: A Nutcracker Christmas combines three of my fave things in fiction – Christmas, romance, and magical realism. I loved the way the author set up & revealed the story of the curse, and I also loved watching Aria try to figure out how to break it. The sparks between her and Kort were swoony but it was the sweetness of their falling-in-love that touched me the most. Both characters are layered and likable, and so is their story. This would make a fun Hallmark-esque movie, in my opinion. A delightful way to spend a few hours between the pages of a book!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
November 10, 2021
This is a magical Christmas love story. The author does a beautiful job painting her scenes and bringing a heartwarming read. It's a sweet and entertaining story showing the love of family. It moves fluidly and is a wonderful holiday read. I enjoyed and would recommend this book.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
October 19, 2021
What better way to get into the holiday mood than reading this heartwarming romance! If you can’t get enough of nutcrackers, Christmas charm, and magic (and who can’t?!), this sweet novel is for you. Beyond themes of love and holiday celebrations, the author also explores family relationships and our obligations to those who love us the most. A pure delight!
December 17, 2023
I saw this book on instagram and expected a cute basic little Christmas love story. I ended up falling in love with this deep & magical Christmas story!
October 6, 2021
Loved this heartwarming and sweet story. After losing her job, Aria returns to Appleton WI to open her late Aunt’s Christmas shop one last time. Her Aunt left her a special nutcracker with a poem that makes it comes to life every night from December first through Christmas night. Kort is the cursed nutcracker and is convinced that the curse will never be broken. Aria decides that they are going to get out and live during their time together. She’s determined to break the curse. Kort doesn’t want her to waste her life trying to save him. Really enjoyed reading this and loved the way it all turned out. Definitely worth the read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 27, 2021
Thank you in advance to Prism Book Tours for providing a complimentary review copy. A positive review was not required nor requested, and all words are my own.
A a rule, I LOVE most Christmas stories. Then again, I also LOVE Christmas. I love the stories almost any time of the year. I’m that Christmas all year kind of person. Kind of like Clara. To me, there is simply something very magical about the season, which I don’t mind starting in mid-November well before “turkey day”.
Would I have picked this up in a bookstore? Likely not so much. Normally I don’t go in for “cartoony” type characters and book covers. Those, in my opinion, are best left for the 18 and under crowd. However, there was something cutesy and whimsical about this that I just adored! And, if it were at a library, definitely would’ve checked it out. Which goes to show you – you really cannot judge a book by the cover. But, always be cautious.
Anyway ...
The story intrigued me – a man, Kort, trapped as a nutcracker for 340 days a year, only after a poem being read, is allowed (during the evening hours) to come back to life as a human as the result of a curse set hundreds of years earlier.
Sounds about like a Hallmark movie.
It does remind me of a Disney movie some 30+ years ago with Olivia Newton-John. She was a mannequin who became human for about the same time when a little girl wished for a mom for Christmas. We all know how that usually ends – happily ever after with bumps, drama, and some miscommunications along the way.
With that in mind … this seemed like such a cutesy read by a new-to-me author. I definitely had to dive right in.
From the blurb, I pretty much knew about Aria’s character and Kort. And, I thought, given the cover – it was a younger couple. Again, that judging thing.
Kort’s curse aside, that was understandable as to why he looked so young. Yet, the “girl” on the cover (at least to me) appeared as late 20’s/early 30’s.
Aria is 48. While hardly an old lady, definitely not what I thought. Though, I don’t mind an older “young” lady. I could be considered one myself.
That doesn’t exactly make this a bad read, just more of an observation.
As far as the characters went – I really enjoyed Bingo (the puppy), Ella (Aria’s daughter), and Ginger (one of the shop workers) a lot more. That’s not to say Aria and Kort weren’t enjoyable. They were, except when they weren’t. In Aria’s case, she was likeable far more often than Kort was.
Aria is definitely interesting due to her background – divorced, daughter in college, and fired all before age 50. She feels unneeded and unwanted in her life as a news anchor and a mother.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like her. But, I really enjoyed Aria’s character development throughout the story, and her determination to find a way to break Kort’s curse. It was interesting watching her go from someone who didn’t want to fall in love, to doing everything she could to “save” Kort and falling in love with him. There were times she’d wonder if she was doing the right thing which was a tad annoying.
What I loved more was watching how she felt about being fired from the news station to seeing it as more of a gift that allowed her to be where she was. After all, as she points out – there are not many opportunities flowing for someone her age.
At first, I really wanted to like Kort and my heart absolutely broke for his circumstances. In the beginning, I was sympathetic, and I thought he was really just perfect. As the story went on, it seemed he spent more of his “awake” time dwelling on what was lost rather than try to make the best of what he was given. Albeit, it wasn’t very much – 25 days a year only between sunset and sunrise.
Over the years with Clara, he learned so much. Yet, given the life she had – or rather the one he feels she didn’t – he doesn’t want to burden Aria like that. Clara had tried, prior to her passing, to find a way to break the curse. There were times I absolutely adored Kort, then it would go south with something. And, his “goodbye” plan? Gutting.
The author gets the reader right in the “feels” with the story, the dialogue, and the characters. The short chapters really help move the story along.
I love the first line: “after all hope is lost, that’s when the magic begins”.
Aria, after losing her job – decides to re-open her great-aunt’s Christmas shop one last time. At first her plan seems sound – give the shoppers one last chance. After all, she’s going to be alone for Christmas, unless you count Bingo. Sounds like the beginning of a perfect holiday read.
Clara’s beloved nutcracker is a gift to Aria. Clara reminds Aria to keep her heart open to love. Aria remembers her great-aunt talking to it, but Clara did suffer from dementia. Aria wasn’t allowed near it so she doesn’t become sentimental towards it.
Aria does as she is asked, reads the poem, and leaves. Then, Kort appears.
At first, she is wary (as she meets him as a human), and with good reason. As a reporter she wonders what his story is and why he won’t take actual pay.
After hearing about the arrangement he had with her great-aunt Clara; and seeing what a sweet guy he is, Aria eventually gives him the same arrangement after figuring out how to do so “safely”. It also helps when Ginger vouches for him.
Kort only works at night. Not during the day.
I had to laugh when Aria kept finding the nutcracker in different places. And, Kort was rather amusing saying that Clara often lost track of it. See why I wanted to like him?
It isn’t too long into the story when Aria learns about the connection between Kort and the nutcracker. Though it is shocking to Aria. Kort eventually tells her everything about his curse.
It is clear to Aria how much Kort is hurting from missing most of his life. And, she soon learns why her great-aunt kept him out of the public eye. It isn’t long until Aria develops feelings for Kort. She doesn’t want him to just sit around and tries to take him out so he can experience life.
Kort is resigned that the curse cannot be broken. Given what is to happen with the house and store, Kort wonders what Aria plans to do with the nutcracker after Christmas.
As the story goes along, Aria learns that it isn’t just about breaking the curse, but healing Kort’s heart. I loved everything she tried. I was alternately proud of her and yet left wondering if her “schemes” were going to work. I had to admire her tenacity though.
I also like how Ella encouraged her mom to “follow her heart”. I’d like to see a story about Ella and her finding out about Kort.
In what should be an upbeat and festive read, I found I was teary-eyed more often than happy when reading it. Don’t get me wrong – A Nutcracker Christmas is a sweet, clean, whimsical, and magical read. Entertaining and charming as well. Definitely has quite a few positives going for it. In fact, in about two and a half (2½) hours, I’d read through 15 chapters. That was the first sitting. I ended up reading two more by the end of the evening. Over Thanksgiving, I ended up finishing the rest of it.
But, it is very heart-breaking and emotional too. For me, it wasn’t as balanced as I would’ve liked.
The magic of the nutcracker definitely was an endearing part of the story. And, the author does a great job in showing why Kort might’ve not wanted to get excited about the season and Aria.
The story also reminded me of a year-round Christmas store in the mall in the early 1990’s. I went in there once and bought the cutest little bear. It’s head, “hands”, and “feet” were like a normal teddy bear. The bodice was actually fabric like it was wearing an outfit.
I was so enchanted by the store, but wondered how something solely focused on Christmas would do year-round. I never went back to the store as I moved and a few years later, a newer mall came in. I later found out the store only lasted a few years. I felt bad that I never went back.
Reading about Clara’s shop definitely helped me relive that memory. I still have the bear packed away in some stuff. But, I always remember where I got it. I definitely understood the appeal of Clara’s shop and could almost see it in my mind.
There was an unresolved plot issue regarding the people who’d cursed Kort. I would’ve liked to have known their tale and what happened to them how they faired after.
This had a “Hallmark movie” vibe right from the beginning and continued through to the end. And, it definitely made me appreciate nutcrackers more. I definitely feel sorry for one of my mom’s that lose his nose YEARS ago.
For readers who like these kinds of movies or stories, this is definitely for them. Those who enjoy sweet and clean reads might want to check this out.
Overall, I did enjoy the story for the most part and wouldn’t hesitate to read another book by the author.
A a rule, I LOVE most Christmas stories. Then again, I also LOVE Christmas. I love the stories almost any time of the year. I’m that Christmas all year kind of person. Kind of like Clara. To me, there is simply something very magical about the season, which I don’t mind starting in mid-November well before “turkey day”.
Would I have picked this up in a bookstore? Likely not so much. Normally I don’t go in for “cartoony” type characters and book covers. Those, in my opinion, are best left for the 18 and under crowd. However, there was something cutesy and whimsical about this that I just adored! And, if it were at a library, definitely would’ve checked it out. Which goes to show you – you really cannot judge a book by the cover. But, always be cautious.
Anyway ...
The story intrigued me – a man, Kort, trapped as a nutcracker for 340 days a year, only after a poem being read, is allowed (during the evening hours) to come back to life as a human as the result of a curse set hundreds of years earlier.
Sounds about like a Hallmark movie.
It does remind me of a Disney movie some 30+ years ago with Olivia Newton-John. She was a mannequin who became human for about the same time when a little girl wished for a mom for Christmas. We all know how that usually ends – happily ever after with bumps, drama, and some miscommunications along the way.
With that in mind … this seemed like such a cutesy read by a new-to-me author. I definitely had to dive right in.
From the blurb, I pretty much knew about Aria’s character and Kort. And, I thought, given the cover – it was a younger couple. Again, that judging thing.
Kort’s curse aside, that was understandable as to why he looked so young. Yet, the “girl” on the cover (at least to me) appeared as late 20’s/early 30’s.
Aria is 48. While hardly an old lady, definitely not what I thought. Though, I don’t mind an older “young” lady. I could be considered one myself.
That doesn’t exactly make this a bad read, just more of an observation.
As far as the characters went – I really enjoyed Bingo (the puppy), Ella (Aria’s daughter), and Ginger (one of the shop workers) a lot more. That’s not to say Aria and Kort weren’t enjoyable. They were, except when they weren’t. In Aria’s case, she was likeable far more often than Kort was.
Aria is definitely interesting due to her background – divorced, daughter in college, and fired all before age 50. She feels unneeded and unwanted in her life as a news anchor and a mother.
At first, I wasn’t sure if I was going to like her. But, I really enjoyed Aria’s character development throughout the story, and her determination to find a way to break Kort’s curse. It was interesting watching her go from someone who didn’t want to fall in love, to doing everything she could to “save” Kort and falling in love with him. There were times she’d wonder if she was doing the right thing which was a tad annoying.
What I loved more was watching how she felt about being fired from the news station to seeing it as more of a gift that allowed her to be where she was. After all, as she points out – there are not many opportunities flowing for someone her age.
At first, I really wanted to like Kort and my heart absolutely broke for his circumstances. In the beginning, I was sympathetic, and I thought he was really just perfect. As the story went on, it seemed he spent more of his “awake” time dwelling on what was lost rather than try to make the best of what he was given. Albeit, it wasn’t very much – 25 days a year only between sunset and sunrise.
Over the years with Clara, he learned so much. Yet, given the life she had – or rather the one he feels she didn’t – he doesn’t want to burden Aria like that. Clara had tried, prior to her passing, to find a way to break the curse. There were times I absolutely adored Kort, then it would go south with something. And, his “goodbye” plan? Gutting.
The author gets the reader right in the “feels” with the story, the dialogue, and the characters. The short chapters really help move the story along.
I love the first line: “after all hope is lost, that’s when the magic begins”.
Aria, after losing her job – decides to re-open her great-aunt’s Christmas shop one last time. At first her plan seems sound – give the shoppers one last chance. After all, she’s going to be alone for Christmas, unless you count Bingo. Sounds like the beginning of a perfect holiday read.
Clara’s beloved nutcracker is a gift to Aria. Clara reminds Aria to keep her heart open to love. Aria remembers her great-aunt talking to it, but Clara did suffer from dementia. Aria wasn’t allowed near it so she doesn’t become sentimental towards it.
Aria does as she is asked, reads the poem, and leaves. Then, Kort appears.
At first, she is wary (as she meets him as a human), and with good reason. As a reporter she wonders what his story is and why he won’t take actual pay.
After hearing about the arrangement he had with her great-aunt Clara; and seeing what a sweet guy he is, Aria eventually gives him the same arrangement after figuring out how to do so “safely”. It also helps when Ginger vouches for him.
Kort only works at night. Not during the day.
I had to laugh when Aria kept finding the nutcracker in different places. And, Kort was rather amusing saying that Clara often lost track of it. See why I wanted to like him?
It isn’t too long into the story when Aria learns about the connection between Kort and the nutcracker. Though it is shocking to Aria. Kort eventually tells her everything about his curse.
It is clear to Aria how much Kort is hurting from missing most of his life. And, she soon learns why her great-aunt kept him out of the public eye. It isn’t long until Aria develops feelings for Kort. She doesn’t want him to just sit around and tries to take him out so he can experience life.
Kort is resigned that the curse cannot be broken. Given what is to happen with the house and store, Kort wonders what Aria plans to do with the nutcracker after Christmas.
As the story goes along, Aria learns that it isn’t just about breaking the curse, but healing Kort’s heart. I loved everything she tried. I was alternately proud of her and yet left wondering if her “schemes” were going to work. I had to admire her tenacity though.
I also like how Ella encouraged her mom to “follow her heart”. I’d like to see a story about Ella and her finding out about Kort.
In what should be an upbeat and festive read, I found I was teary-eyed more often than happy when reading it. Don’t get me wrong – A Nutcracker Christmas is a sweet, clean, whimsical, and magical read. Entertaining and charming as well. Definitely has quite a few positives going for it. In fact, in about two and a half (2½) hours, I’d read through 15 chapters. That was the first sitting. I ended up reading two more by the end of the evening. Over Thanksgiving, I ended up finishing the rest of it.
But, it is very heart-breaking and emotional too. For me, it wasn’t as balanced as I would’ve liked.
The magic of the nutcracker definitely was an endearing part of the story. And, the author does a great job in showing why Kort might’ve not wanted to get excited about the season and Aria.
The story also reminded me of a year-round Christmas store in the mall in the early 1990’s. I went in there once and bought the cutest little bear. It’s head, “hands”, and “feet” were like a normal teddy bear. The bodice was actually fabric like it was wearing an outfit.
I was so enchanted by the store, but wondered how something solely focused on Christmas would do year-round. I never went back to the store as I moved and a few years later, a newer mall came in. I later found out the store only lasted a few years. I felt bad that I never went back.
Reading about Clara’s shop definitely helped me relive that memory. I still have the bear packed away in some stuff. But, I always remember where I got it. I definitely understood the appeal of Clara’s shop and could almost see it in my mind.
There was an unresolved plot issue regarding the people who’d cursed Kort. I would’ve liked to have known their tale and what happened to them how they faired after.
This had a “Hallmark movie” vibe right from the beginning and continued through to the end. And, it definitely made me appreciate nutcrackers more. I definitely feel sorry for one of my mom’s that lose his nose YEARS ago.
For readers who like these kinds of movies or stories, this is definitely for them. Those who enjoy sweet and clean reads might want to check this out.
Overall, I did enjoy the story for the most part and wouldn’t hesitate to read another book by the author.
December 1, 2021
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy from the Prism Book Tours. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.A Nutcracker Christmas by Laurie Winter is a sweet holiday romance about discovery and forgiveness.
Will Aria find a way to move forward, and can she help Kort break the curse?
Aria
Aria is our heroine. She was a television news anchor until her station didn't renew her contract. You see, Aria is in her late 40s, and apparently, that is too old for television. Really? Anyway, Aria decides to honor her Aunt Clara, return to Appleton, and open Clara's Christmas Store one more time before her parents sell everything. Aria feels terrible for not making Aunt Clara a priority before she passed. With the letter that Aunt Clara left, especially for her, she will try to set things right with the store, Aunt Clara, and possibly figure out her next steps in life.
Oh, Aria is independent, intelligent, and has spunk. I immediately was rooting for her. She is a fabulous character with just enough flaws to be realistic and the strength that we all hope to find when it is needed.
Kort
Kort has been cursed since the late 1700s to live for 25 nights each December and spend the rest of the year as a nutcracker that he carved. Well, technically, he can only live if someone reads the poem on December 1 that wakes him. Kort has been staying for the last thirty years with Aunt Clara. He helped her in the store and took care of her when she needed his help. They were the best of friends. However, when it comes to Aria, Kort feels utterly different chemistry. She makes him feel hope for the first time in forever.
Kort has this old-world charm with a touch of the tortured soul type. I enjoyed his memories and the way that he brought Aria out of her funk. Although Kort is still finding a way to deal with his past, he seems to grow under Aria's love. One thing that they have in common is they both adored Clara.
The Story
I truly enjoyed this spin on the nutcracker ballet. Ms. Winter does such a marvelous job of creating a wonderful setting and characters that step entirely out of the pages and make you feel that you are there in Clara's Christmas Store listening to Kort read a children's story. It honestly came to life, complete with the mice running around the store causing mischief. The supporting characters are so fantastic too. Ginger and Mia Noel are just perfect, and then there is Ella. She helps to keep Aria grounded and reminds her about what is essential in life.
Five Stars
As you can tell, I love this story. It was in the back of my mind the entire time that I had to walk away from the book. And seriously, who doesn't love a happy ending. My rating for A Nutcracker Christmas by Laurie Winter is five stars. If you are looking for a sweet holiday romantic read, look no further, as this one is perfect.
Giveaways
Will Aria find a way to move forward, and can she help Kort break the curse?
Aria
Aria is our heroine. She was a television news anchor until her station didn't renew her contract. You see, Aria is in her late 40s, and apparently, that is too old for television. Really? Anyway, Aria decides to honor her Aunt Clara, return to Appleton, and open Clara's Christmas Store one more time before her parents sell everything. Aria feels terrible for not making Aunt Clara a priority before she passed. With the letter that Aunt Clara left, especially for her, she will try to set things right with the store, Aunt Clara, and possibly figure out her next steps in life.
Oh, Aria is independent, intelligent, and has spunk. I immediately was rooting for her. She is a fabulous character with just enough flaws to be realistic and the strength that we all hope to find when it is needed.
Kort
Kort has been cursed since the late 1700s to live for 25 nights each December and spend the rest of the year as a nutcracker that he carved. Well, technically, he can only live if someone reads the poem on December 1 that wakes him. Kort has been staying for the last thirty years with Aunt Clara. He helped her in the store and took care of her when she needed his help. They were the best of friends. However, when it comes to Aria, Kort feels utterly different chemistry. She makes him feel hope for the first time in forever.Kort has this old-world charm with a touch of the tortured soul type. I enjoyed his memories and the way that he brought Aria out of her funk. Although Kort is still finding a way to deal with his past, he seems to grow under Aria's love. One thing that they have in common is they both adored Clara.
The Story
I truly enjoyed this spin on the nutcracker ballet. Ms. Winter does such a marvelous job of creating a wonderful setting and characters that step entirely out of the pages and make you feel that you are there in Clara's Christmas Store listening to Kort read a children's story. It honestly came to life, complete with the mice running around the store causing mischief. The supporting characters are so fantastic too. Ginger and Mia Noel are just perfect, and then there is Ella. She helps to keep Aria grounded and reminds her about what is essential in life.
Five Stars
As you can tell, I love this story. It was in the back of my mind the entire time that I had to walk away from the book. And seriously, who doesn't love a happy ending. My rating for A Nutcracker Christmas by Laurie Winter is five stars. If you are looking for a sweet holiday romantic read, look no further, as this one is perfect.
Giveaways
One winner will receive a print copy of A NUTCRACKER CHRISTMAS or ONCE UPON A PRINCE by Laurie Winter, a $25 Amazon gift card, and a nutcracker Christmas ornament (the US only)
Ends: December 8, 2021
To find all the tour information, click the banner at the top of the page.
Thank you for dropping by! I hope you enjoyed this review of A Nutcracker Christmas by Laurie Winter.
Until the next time,
This review was originally posted on Baroness' Book Trove
December 5, 2021
This book has my heart. Literally. I’ll be honest though, I don’t particularly care for nutcrackers (my teenage son LOVES them) but I couldn’t help but fall in love with them because of Kort. Yes, Kort. A fictional character. Sue me. This story is so endearing, enchanting, and magical. Magical in the sense that you don’t need to truly believe in magic but hold a belief that sometimes you can’t explain some things that go on around you.
Aria is an older character, which I love. You could almost say that she is having a mid-life crisis with everything going on but this is what life has dealt her. She’s not mad about it, rather she is embracing the challenges and what she could do instead of what other people expect her to do. Her daughter is there to help guide her through this but I felt like she wasn’t used much. I think Aunt Clara’s life and what Aria found out about her aunt’s life is what ultimately decides Aria’s fate. Not to mention falling in love with Kort and the despair that she feels when she can’t get him to understand her emotions with him.
Kort is a great character. I loved how most of the town actually knew him and accepted him coming around during Christmastime. Ginger and the other girls that worked at the shop liked him, knew about his relationship with Clara but didn’t interfere with his budding relationship with Aria. They let it play out and only gave some minimal help during their courtship, which I loved. ARia and Kort needed to figure things out on their own and they did in the end. Kort’s backstory is one for the ages and I loved how it played out in the end. *wink wink*
I didn’t want this book to end. I’m completely satisfied with the ending but again, Aria and Kort have my heart. They always will and for that, I’m truly grateful to Ms. Winter for writing their story. Believe me, I have a new appreciation for nutcrackers now.
Aria is an older character, which I love. You could almost say that she is having a mid-life crisis with everything going on but this is what life has dealt her. She’s not mad about it, rather she is embracing the challenges and what she could do instead of what other people expect her to do. Her daughter is there to help guide her through this but I felt like she wasn’t used much. I think Aunt Clara’s life and what Aria found out about her aunt’s life is what ultimately decides Aria’s fate. Not to mention falling in love with Kort and the despair that she feels when she can’t get him to understand her emotions with him.
Kort is a great character. I loved how most of the town actually knew him and accepted him coming around during Christmastime. Ginger and the other girls that worked at the shop liked him, knew about his relationship with Clara but didn’t interfere with his budding relationship with Aria. They let it play out and only gave some minimal help during their courtship, which I loved. ARia and Kort needed to figure things out on their own and they did in the end. Kort’s backstory is one for the ages and I loved how it played out in the end. *wink wink*
I didn’t want this book to end. I’m completely satisfied with the ending but again, Aria and Kort have my heart. They always will and for that, I’m truly grateful to Ms. Winter for writing their story. Believe me, I have a new appreciation for nutcrackers now.
January 21, 2022
The book description, and even parts of the story, reminded me a lot of the story in The Spirit of Christmas, which is one of my favorite movies to watch during the holiday season. A man from the past comes to life during a portion of the day at this particular time of year. And of course he and the woman - who is working to revamp her life - develop a strong friendship and are attracted to each other. But despite those similarities, this book is quite unique on its own and I fell in love with it.
Aria is not dreadfully older than I am and is considered to be washed up and too old to continue her news anchor job. Plus her beloved great-aunt Clara has passed away and her daughter is away at college. Her marriage had fallen apart. So she's trying to figure out a lot in her life as she reopens her aunt's beloved Christmas store for one last hurrah.
And then we meet Kort, who has been cursed to this wooden nutcracker, only appearing in the evening hours for the month of December until Christmas. He has his own tragic past and struggles to deal with all that he has lost. And yet he is comfortable in this present time.
They're both learning how to heal and enjoy the life that they have around them. I loved watching them grow and still got a lot of that holiday happiness that I so crave at this time of year. And I definitely think that this one would makes a wonderful holiday movie as well. So Hallmark and Netflix need to get on that!
Thank you to Prism Book Tours for my requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Aria is not dreadfully older than I am and is considered to be washed up and too old to continue her news anchor job. Plus her beloved great-aunt Clara has passed away and her daughter is away at college. Her marriage had fallen apart. So she's trying to figure out a lot in her life as she reopens her aunt's beloved Christmas store for one last hurrah.
And then we meet Kort, who has been cursed to this wooden nutcracker, only appearing in the evening hours for the month of December until Christmas. He has his own tragic past and struggles to deal with all that he has lost. And yet he is comfortable in this present time.
They're both learning how to heal and enjoy the life that they have around them. I loved watching them grow and still got a lot of that holiday happiness that I so crave at this time of year. And I definitely think that this one would makes a wonderful holiday movie as well. So Hallmark and Netflix need to get on that!
Thank you to Prism Book Tours for my requested review copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 22, 2021
I must admit this story went straight to my heart! Such a delightful, original and heartfelt story that will have you smiling and teary eyed at the same time. Laurie Winter has written a story that makes me want to start collecting nutcrackers:) Clara’s Christmas Shoppe, great aunt Clara's mansion, Bingo the dog, a cursed nutcracker and a woman who has suddenly lost all confidence in herself....put everything together and you have a book you don't want to put down.
The last thing Aria expects is for a nutcracker to come alive when she takes over her late great aunt's Christmas shop for one last season. Kort has been cursed to be a nutcracker and to only become human from Dec. 1 to the 25th every year. Aria will do everything she can to break the curse and give her a chance to find love again and a future with Kort. Easier said than done!!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
The last thing Aria expects is for a nutcracker to come alive when she takes over her late great aunt's Christmas shop for one last season. Kort has been cursed to be a nutcracker and to only become human from Dec. 1 to the 25th every year. Aria will do everything she can to break the curse and give her a chance to find love again and a future with Kort. Easier said than done!!
I received an ARC of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
January 17, 2022
This is a fun book to read during the holiday season. I loved that the characters were in their middle ages and it was a story about learning to love again after heartbreak. Kort's heartbreak came from losing his wife and children to centuries cursed to come alive from December 1st through 24th. Aria is divorced and fired from a job she loved.
The novel has several humorous parts. The nutcracker disappears from where he was placed and found in the most unusual places. It was cute to see how Aria dealt with the mystery.
Kort is wary about who to trust with his secret. He wants Aria to figure it out on her own, just as her Great-Aunt Clara did. While being a cute holiday story, it is a bit of a tragedy. The common element is Aunt Clara. She plays a vital role in their decisions and bringing them together.
I enjoyed this story.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Prism Book Tours. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
The novel has several humorous parts. The nutcracker disappears from where he was placed and found in the most unusual places. It was cute to see how Aria dealt with the mystery.
Kort is wary about who to trust with his secret. He wants Aria to figure it out on her own, just as her Great-Aunt Clara did. While being a cute holiday story, it is a bit of a tragedy. The common element is Aunt Clara. She plays a vital role in their decisions and bringing them together.
I enjoyed this story.
Source: I received a complimentary copy from Prism Book Tours. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
November 21, 2021
Aria is jobless and husbandless so she decides now might be the time to open her Aunts Christmas shop. She has fond memories of being there as a child and with nothing better to do it calls to her. Her Aunt left a letter for her when she died with strict instructions for her prized nutcracker. Aria thinks it is odd but she complies anyway. She is shocked when the nutcracker disappears and reappears in random places but with the help of Kort, her aunts old friend she gets the shop set up. She decides to keep the nutcracker close to see how it keeps moving and is stunned when it turns into Kort. Love blossoms and they live through December with Joy in their hearts until he turns into the nutcracker for the other eleven months of the year.
A classic tale of the nutcracker prince.
A classic tale of the nutcracker prince.
January 16, 2022
Can They Break the Curse??
I absolutely adored this magical Christmas story featuring a woman paying homage to a dear relative by running her shop for one last time, a lady who has left her much more than she bargained for with her inheritance. An old-fashioned nutcracker comes to life between dusk and dawn each night from December 1st to Christmas. In this time, the heroine shows this hero toy-come-to-life about the modern world, and of course, they fall for each other. But how can they make it work if he's been cursed (for 300 years) to live only 25 nights per year? A whimsical, delightful, and very different holiday romance read.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
I absolutely adored this magical Christmas story featuring a woman paying homage to a dear relative by running her shop for one last time, a lady who has left her much more than she bargained for with her inheritance. An old-fashioned nutcracker comes to life between dusk and dawn each night from December 1st to Christmas. In this time, the heroine shows this hero toy-come-to-life about the modern world, and of course, they fall for each other. But how can they make it work if he's been cursed (for 300 years) to live only 25 nights per year? A whimsical, delightful, and very different holiday romance read.
I received a free copy of this book, but that did not affect my review.
My book blog: https://www.readingfanaticreviews.com
November 15, 2021
Kolt is stuck by a centuries' old curse - he's only "alive" from sunset to sunrise in December; the rest of the time, he's a nutcracker. Aria comes back to open her aunt's Christmas shop one last time, and discovers the secret that Aunt Clara left - Kolt. They fall in love, but they can never truly be together - unless they can break the curse. The story is magical and heartwarming, and nearly impossible to put down. It's my new favorite Christmas book! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2021
An enchanted Christmas romance! It is well written with a very good storyline that kept me turning pages. Kort Zellner was cursed to be a nutcracker and to become human for only 25 days a year. Aria Roberts heads north to stay at her late Great-Aunt Clara’s house, where aunt has left her an antique nutcracker with a poem hidden under the back lever. I enjoyed seeing this magical story come together. I received a copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review
January 25, 2022
This is the 4th book I've read written by Laurie Winter; I can’t wait to read more of her books.
She has written a good Christmas book. The story is about Aria & Kort; her Aunt passes away so she goes to have one final holiday season at her Christmas Shoppe; when she arrives she finds a poem and an antique nutcracker; as she reads the poem the nutcracker magically comes to life. He is the nutcracker.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
She has written a good Christmas book. The story is about Aria & Kort; her Aunt passes away so she goes to have one final holiday season at her Christmas Shoppe; when she arrives she finds a poem and an antique nutcracker; as she reads the poem the nutcracker magically comes to life. He is the nutcracker.
I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2021
This was a great story, a sweet love story filled with mystery, tragedy, love for family and Christmas magic. Just when you thought you were going to get the outcome you didn't want you get the perfect hea. I strongly recommend this book
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2021
This story is crying out to be made into a Christmas movie! I got lost in the story and couldn't put it down. I loved the mystery, magic, great characters, the romance, history, family, friends and love. The story flowed well and I am adding it to my read it again list.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 3, 2021
This is a super cute holiday/fantasy romance! I loved it! It is fun and sweet, romantic and very heartwarming..
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2021
This book is a sweet story and just perfect for the holidays . The characters are great and the storyline is perfect .
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2021
Great holiday read with all the feels. A sweet read that will have you smiling as you turn the pages. I found the story to be well written, easy to read and highly engaging. Great book! Well-developed story line and characters. It pulled me in from beginning to end and held my attention.
November 20, 2021
Such an amazing book! I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book. I would definitely recommend anything by this author!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 19, 2022
This is a super cute holiday/fantasy romance! I loved it! It is fun and sweet, romantic and very heartwarming... I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 23, 2021
Not my usual genre but wanted to read something light. It fitted the bill and I quite enjoyed it. Well written and enjoyable.
November 8, 2021
A must-read seasonal plot and the characters are fantastic! I volunteered to read an advance copy for an honest review.
December 8, 2022
While this book was cute, I was also not in the mood for this book but pushed through. I was hoping it would help push me out of my Grinch mood and it did so halfway.
December 3, 2022
What a sweet little romance this was! It took the premise of the traditional Nutcracker come to life story and added in a mystery, a curse, and tender feel-good family memories.
It was a great blend of old-fashioned Christmas spirit and modern day living, and I was all in.
It started out with the typical young woman being relocated for the holidays—this time due to the passing of a beloved aunt (Clara). She was full of regret for not spending more time with her aunt, and she was there to help close up her traditional Christmas store before the sale of the building. She is gifted a nutcracker, who unbeknownst to her, comes to life thanks to an old curse, and she finds herself with unexpected feelings.
The sweetness of their connection was slow and steady, and I loved how it married his old school life memories with her present day divorced family situation—with the added mix of how did Aunt Clara fit in (and how come she never broke the curse?) The whole book is delightful from beginning to end.
The perfect curl up by the fireplace read.
It was a great blend of old-fashioned Christmas spirit and modern day living, and I was all in.
It started out with the typical young woman being relocated for the holidays—this time due to the passing of a beloved aunt (Clara). She was full of regret for not spending more time with her aunt, and she was there to help close up her traditional Christmas store before the sale of the building. She is gifted a nutcracker, who unbeknownst to her, comes to life thanks to an old curse, and she finds herself with unexpected feelings.
The sweetness of their connection was slow and steady, and I loved how it married his old school life memories with her present day divorced family situation—with the added mix of how did Aunt Clara fit in (and how come she never broke the curse?) The whole book is delightful from beginning to end.
The perfect curl up by the fireplace read.
January 1, 2022
An enchanted Christmas romance. The description is absolutely spot on. This is the story of Aria Roberts and Kort Zellner. Aria is a news anchor who has just lost her job. She inherits her Aunt Clara's Christmas Shoppe. She decides to run the store through the holiday season. Then she can reassess her life. Kort has been cursed to remain in nutcracker form for most of the year. He comes to life from the 1st to midnight 25 December. But only through the night. He has been cursed like this for the past 300 years. When they first meet, Aria doesn't believe Kort's story. Eventually she comes around and decides to help Kort fit as much life as he can into the short time that he has. What begins as a friendship becomes more. This is their story. The book is well written and reads well. It is fun to read. A sweet Christmas story that is sure to get you into the holiday spirit.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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