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Once Upon a Christmas Storm
Christmas at Northbury Inn
Torn apart one Christmas years ago, only to be reunited by chance...
Christopher Booth is desperate. In order to save his parents from destitution, he travels north to a holiday house party, where if he plays his cards right, he could secure the wealthy match. But his carriage is delayed by a snowstorm, and he finds himself stuck at a country inn. Though the urgency to leave constantly pulls at him, the presence of a kitchen maid whispers for him to stay...
Eleanor Grant has been in hiding for years, and she's not about to reveal her identity or her location, even in the face of her childhood sweetheart. It would do no good to burden him with the truth, and he obviously has places to be, with other women to woo.
But Christopher never forgot his childhood friend who disappeared years ago. So when the snow begins to clear, will he risk his family's future for the sake of the long lost love from his past?
Christopher Booth is desperate. In order to save his parents from destitution, he travels north to a holiday house party, where if he plays his cards right, he could secure the wealthy match. But his carriage is delayed by a snowstorm, and he finds himself stuck at a country inn. Though the urgency to leave constantly pulls at him, the presence of a kitchen maid whispers for him to stay...
Eleanor Grant has been in hiding for years, and she's not about to reveal her identity or her location, even in the face of her childhood sweetheart. It would do no good to burden him with the truth, and he obviously has places to be, with other women to woo.
But Christopher never forgot his childhood friend who disappeared years ago. So when the snow begins to clear, will he risk his family's future for the sake of the long lost love from his past?
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2023
39 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Willis
16 books75 followersCourtney has wanted to be an author since she was young. She loved learning about history and exploring the world, and fell in love with love stories, making it a goal to write romantic adventures for the rest of her life.
She has a degree in Creative Writing and has lived all over the US. She found inspiration for her westerns in the mountains of Utah, and wrote her first Regency after a study abroad in the UK. Today she lives in her home state of sunny Florida.
When she's not writing, Courtney enjoys traveling, baking, reading, being with friends and family, and spending as much time on the beach as possible. More recently, she can be found watching Korean dramas with her chaotic kitty, Stitch.
Find her on social media @cwillisbooks
She has a degree in Creative Writing and has lived all over the US. She found inspiration for her westerns in the mountains of Utah, and wrote her first Regency after a study abroad in the UK. Today she lives in her home state of sunny Florida.
When she's not writing, Courtney enjoys traveling, baking, reading, being with friends and family, and spending as much time on the beach as possible. More recently, she can be found watching Korean dramas with her chaotic kitty, Stitch.
Find her on social media @cwillisbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 5, 2023
4.75 stars!
Christopher and Eleanor are childhood friends who got separated. Eleanor, years later, fled to Northbury Inn and is working as a maid. She is using a different name, so her abusive Uncle won't find her. While traveling, Christopher gets motion sickness and stops at Northbury Inn to rest. He sees a girl who looks very similar to his childhood friend, but it couldn't be her could it? He gets snowed in and soon sees the birthmark that his friend had on this girl's wrist. It is her! They are reunited. And Eleanor learns the truth about her Uncle!
Really enjoyed this story! I like that they were reunited after so long apart. This story has fun Christmas themes, such as stirring the pudding, ice skating and a snowball fight! There is also a little bit of danger thrown in, and of course romance. Overall, a great read and I recommend!
Content: 2 uses of "b*****d"
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Christopher and Eleanor are childhood friends who got separated. Eleanor, years later, fled to Northbury Inn and is working as a maid. She is using a different name, so her abusive Uncle won't find her. While traveling, Christopher gets motion sickness and stops at Northbury Inn to rest. He sees a girl who looks very similar to his childhood friend, but it couldn't be her could it? He gets snowed in and soon sees the birthmark that his friend had on this girl's wrist. It is her! They are reunited. And Eleanor learns the truth about her Uncle!
Really enjoyed this story! I like that they were reunited after so long apart. This story has fun Christmas themes, such as stirring the pudding, ice skating and a snowball fight! There is also a little bit of danger thrown in, and of course romance. Overall, a great read and I recommend!
Content: 2 uses of "b*****d"
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 3, 2023
Courtney Willis always has amazing books and this one is just as amazing! The characters feel very real and the pacing is great! The path the story takes you on has unexpected twists and turns as you learn about the past and try to predict the future. I could hardly put the book down!
🗝️ Lifetime connection
🗝️ Chivalrous
🗝️ Patience
🗝️ Some family's are made by circumstances
🗝️ Devotion
🗝️ Sacrifice
🗝️ Happiness
Favorite quote "But I do not think that even if we are dealt a difficult hand at times, it means that the same fate is guaranteed in the long run. I think we always have room for the hope of better things to come.”
Definitely a book I recommend!
🗝️ Lifetime connection
🗝️ Chivalrous
🗝️ Patience
🗝️ Some family's are made by circumstances
🗝️ Devotion
🗝️ Sacrifice
🗝️ Happiness
Favorite quote "But I do not think that even if we are dealt a difficult hand at times, it means that the same fate is guaranteed in the long run. I think we always have room for the hope of better things to come.”
Definitely a book I recommend!
Read
December 2, 2023Christmas at Northbury Inn:
A Sweet Regency Romance
By Courtney Willis
Pub Date: Dec 6th
If you enjoy...
❄️Childhood Friends
❄️Happily Ever Afters
❄️Christmas Holiday 📚
❄️Sweet Romances
❄️Regency Romances
❄️Fast read / short book 📖
(131 pages 36k words)
I recommend Christmas at Northbury Inn.
This was a sweet, wholesome story about love, friendship, family, and more.
If you enjoy closed door romance/ Clean Romance, I recommend all of Courtney Willis books. So greatful I had an opportunity to receive an early copy.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC Ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
All thoughts, opinions and videos are my own ❤️
Book Synopsis:
"Torn apart one Christmas years ago, only to be reunited by chance...
Christopher Booth is desperate. In order to save his parents from destitution, he travels north to a holiday house party, where if he plays his cards right, he could secure the wealthy match. But his carriage is delayed by a snowstorm, and he finds himself stuck at a country inn. Though the urgency to leave constantly pulls at him, the presence of a kitchen maid whispers for him to stay...
Eleanor Grant has been in hiding for years, and she's not about to reveal her identity or her location, even in the face of her childhood, sweetheart. It would do no good to burden him with the truth, and he obviously has places to be, with other women to woo.
But Christopher never forgot his childhood friend who disappeared years ago. So when the snow begins to clear, will he risk his family's future for the sake of the long lost love from his past?"
A Sweet Regency Romance
By Courtney Willis
Pub Date: Dec 6th
If you enjoy...
❄️Childhood Friends
❄️Happily Ever Afters
❄️Christmas Holiday 📚
❄️Sweet Romances
❄️Regency Romances
❄️Fast read / short book 📖
(131 pages 36k words)
I recommend Christmas at Northbury Inn.
This was a sweet, wholesome story about love, friendship, family, and more.
If you enjoy closed door romance/ Clean Romance, I recommend all of Courtney Willis books. So greatful I had an opportunity to receive an early copy.
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC Ebook copy in exchange for an honest review.
All thoughts, opinions and videos are my own ❤️
Book Synopsis:
"Torn apart one Christmas years ago, only to be reunited by chance...
Christopher Booth is desperate. In order to save his parents from destitution, he travels north to a holiday house party, where if he plays his cards right, he could secure the wealthy match. But his carriage is delayed by a snowstorm, and he finds himself stuck at a country inn. Though the urgency to leave constantly pulls at him, the presence of a kitchen maid whispers for him to stay...
Eleanor Grant has been in hiding for years, and she's not about to reveal her identity or her location, even in the face of her childhood, sweetheart. It would do no good to burden him with the truth, and he obviously has places to be, with other women to woo.
But Christopher never forgot his childhood friend who disappeared years ago. So when the snow begins to clear, will he risk his family's future for the sake of the long lost love from his past?"
December 22, 2023
There is angst, caused by the absence of money on both sides, as they both struggle with their growing attraction to the other. And there is an unlikely ending which seems a bit contrived, but overall a sweet tale. This is a new author for me. I would read more of her books.
December 25, 2024
This is such a sweet and tender story! It's a lovely Christmastime novella about childhood sweethearts who are reunited after being snowed in. Eleanor and Christopher are both so easy to root for, and their interactions gave me all the warm tinglies! That almost kiss 🤌🏼. The hint of mystery and suspense adds even more intrigue to an already enjoyable tale.
"I’ve loved you my whole life, from the day we met, and every day since.”
"I’ve loved you my whole life, from the day we met, and every day since.”
December 9, 2024
A simple and easy read. Very sweet. This was a good book for the holidays and one that I was able to read in just an hour or two. I love simple stories like this and was glad for the opportunity to read through both characters’ perspectives. Maybe a little predictable, but not really a complaint from me.
December 22, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
This was very sweet. I enjoyed learning about the Christmas traditions. The plot had a dangerous twist that I enjoyed but I needed more backstory and motivation from the villain. Overall sweet and enjoyable Christmas novella.
This was very sweet. I enjoyed learning about the Christmas traditions. The plot had a dangerous twist that I enjoyed but I needed more backstory and motivation from the villain. Overall sweet and enjoyable Christmas novella.
December 15, 2023
This is a wonderful Christmas read!
December 3, 2023
This was a captivating read for me. I was able to read it in just a couple of hours. I had originally planned to start it one evening and finish the next day. But this was one of those that wouldn't let me put it down to sleep. I had to know how it ended.
This book is part of the Once Upon a Christmas Storm Regency Era book series. Each of the books are standalone stories but are connected by talented authors and characters stranded in storms at Christmas time. All are sweet Regency romances with kissing only.
I was hooked from the prologue. Courtney Wills has written an endearing story of reconnecting. I am thankful she trusted me with an advanced digital copy of this book. I am happy to leave an honest review.
This book is part of the Once Upon a Christmas Storm Regency Era book series. Each of the books are standalone stories but are connected by talented authors and characters stranded in storms at Christmas time. All are sweet Regency romances with kissing only.
I was hooked from the prologue. Courtney Wills has written an endearing story of reconnecting. I am thankful she trusted me with an advanced digital copy of this book. I am happy to leave an honest review.
December 6, 2023
I give ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️(5/5 stars)
Torn apart one Christmas years ago, only to be reunited by chance...
“The frost clung to the air, the death of winter still prevalent all around him, but the world seemed more colorful today with the hope of what might be.”
Loyal Christopher Booth is a bit forlorn. In order to save his parents from destitution, he is traveling north to get to a holiday house party, where if he plays his cards right, he could secure the wealthy match. But his carriage is delayed by a snowstorm, and he finds himself stuck at a country inn.
Resilient Eleanor “Ellie” Grant has been in hiding for years. She isn’t about to reveal her identity or her location, even when she comes face to face with her childhood sweetheart who always made her feel safe when she was so young.
However, Christopher never forgot his dear childhood friend who disappeared many years ago. So when the snow begins to clear, he must decide if he will risk his family's future for the sake of the long lost love from his past or not?…
“I do not think that even if we are dealt a difficult hand at times, it means that the same fate is guaranteed in the long run. I think we always have room for the hope of better things to come."
Christmas at Northbury Inn is a short and delightfully sweet holiday read with endearing characters. @cwillisbooks has beautifully written such a wonderful story that is weaved with the important message of hope with Christmas magic in the air! This book is worth the read!
“You are a treasure," he emphasized that word with a squeeze of her hands, "long lost and precious. I could never abandon you."
January 2, 2026
I feel more romantic tension while at the hairdresser.
This story had potential, but fell flat for me.
The biggest issue was the heavy telling rather than showing. Instead of experiencing the emotions, tension, and romance alongside the characters, I often felt like I was being given a summary of their lives. Because of this and having access to both main characters’ POVs, it was difficult to feel any real connection to the characters. The dual POV removed any sense of suspense or mystery, making the romance feel more like an account of events than an emotional journey.
Some plot points bothered me as well and didn’t seem believable. Eleanor really never tries to verify her Uncle’s story and find out if her father was actually dead? Eleanor’s passivity throughout the story is frustrating and made me not really care for her. She never truly tries to escape her Uncle’s control and repeatedly resigns herself to her fate, waiting to be rescued rather than taking agency in her own life.
The ending was also weird. Kit disappears without explanation and while we think it was for some greater purpose, nope he just “wanted her to have time with her father”. This didnt seem to fit the character that he would suck that much at communication that he wouldn’t just tell her that he wanted her to have that time. The disappearance felt unnecessary and emotionally tone-deaf.
Overall, the story seemed promising but the execution lacked emotional depth, believable character motivations, and romantic tension. A bit more showing, stronger character agency, and better communication between the leads could have made this a much more satisfying holiday romance.
This story had potential, but fell flat for me.
The biggest issue was the heavy telling rather than showing. Instead of experiencing the emotions, tension, and romance alongside the characters, I often felt like I was being given a summary of their lives. Because of this and having access to both main characters’ POVs, it was difficult to feel any real connection to the characters. The dual POV removed any sense of suspense or mystery, making the romance feel more like an account of events than an emotional journey.
Some plot points bothered me as well and didn’t seem believable. Eleanor really never tries to verify her Uncle’s story and find out if her father was actually dead? Eleanor’s passivity throughout the story is frustrating and made me not really care for her. She never truly tries to escape her Uncle’s control and repeatedly resigns herself to her fate, waiting to be rescued rather than taking agency in her own life.
The ending was also weird. Kit disappears without explanation and while we think it was for some greater purpose, nope he just “wanted her to have time with her father”. This didnt seem to fit the character that he would suck that much at communication that he wouldn’t just tell her that he wanted her to have that time. The disappearance felt unnecessary and emotionally tone-deaf.
Overall, the story seemed promising but the execution lacked emotional depth, believable character motivations, and romantic tension. A bit more showing, stronger character agency, and better communication between the leads could have made this a much more satisfying holiday romance.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 27, 2023
"Christmas at Northbury Inn" is a beautifully written and dazzling novella from author Courtney Willis! The Regency-era setting was very well-researched and the author has included details that really bring the story alive. As I was reading I was able to clearly picture the settings, locations, characters, weather, clothing, and what was happening in the story. This not only makes the story very enjoyable for the reader but also helps the reader feel invested in the characters and their story. The characters! Oh how I love these characters! They are so sweet and are perfect together. They feel three-dimensional and like real people along with personalities, hopes, fears, and personal and emotional difficulties of their own. I also loved getting to know the Hills and all of their friends there. The author's writing style is smooth and sparkling with beauty and heart! The romance was sweet and swoony with wonderful emotional depth! And the perfect level of angst. All I can say is wow! I cannot recommend "Christmas at Northbury Inn" highly enough! This is absolutely a must read and is the perfect read as we continue on into the winter season. You are in for a treat! 5 stars
Thank you very much to the author for the wonderful opportunity of being on her ARC Team and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
Thank you very much to the author for the wonderful opportunity of being on her ARC Team and for providing me with a digital copy to read and review honestly.
August 30, 2024
“We may all have seasons of difficulty, but it is not our destiny in the end.”
There’re only 118 days until Christmas! 😀
So I’m reading Christmas stories 🤷🏻♀️ I read this Regency novella and I liked it. This’ a childhood friends to more with beautiful Christmas traditions weaved in the story. A clean romance with a happily ever after, so what else to ask for a sweet and enjoyable read.
Eleanor 💖 Christopher
Eleanor Grant disappeared from her parents house as a girl one Christmas Eve. After that evening Christopher didn’t get to see her for more than a decade but never forgot his Ellie. Through some turn of events they reunite again and renew their friendship. Together they’re going to discover and reveal the why and how everything happened.
You may enjoy this story if you like Christmas Regency novellas with a hint of mystery.
— Even though I liked the story there’re a couple of things I disliked but it may be ok for others, still thought to mention so as not to take you by surprise. The plot is predictable and there’s mild language included: d*v*l and b*s*a*d. I wanted to give this story more stars since I won’t mind a predictable plot the mild language was a detriment, for me, to the sweetness of the story.
There’re only 118 days until Christmas! 😀
So I’m reading Christmas stories 🤷🏻♀️ I read this Regency novella and I liked it. This’ a childhood friends to more with beautiful Christmas traditions weaved in the story. A clean romance with a happily ever after, so what else to ask for a sweet and enjoyable read.
Eleanor 💖 Christopher
Eleanor Grant disappeared from her parents house as a girl one Christmas Eve. After that evening Christopher didn’t get to see her for more than a decade but never forgot his Ellie. Through some turn of events they reunite again and renew their friendship. Together they’re going to discover and reveal the why and how everything happened.
You may enjoy this story if you like Christmas Regency novellas with a hint of mystery.
— Even though I liked the story there’re a couple of things I disliked but it may be ok for others, still thought to mention so as not to take you by surprise. The plot is predictable and there’s mild language included: d*v*l and b*s*a*d. I wanted to give this story more stars since I won’t mind a predictable plot the mild language was a detriment, for me, to the sweetness of the story.
December 5, 2023
“Eleanor’s heart took off at a galloping speed as she met the blue of his steady gaze.”
I loved this novella. I fell in love with the dedication and the prologue, and I knew then, that I was in for a treat with this book! Christopher and Eleanor’s story was romantic, touching, so very sweet, and it definitely made me teary eyed on multiple occasions!🥹I loved the theme of hope and finding joy and happiness.
Childhood friends to more is my favorite trope because of the memories and history between the characters. I loved those moments between these two, and it really made their love story that much sweeter! This story also has a fun twist on this trope that I can’t wait for you to discover!
Read for:
🤍childhood friends
🤍a snowstorm
🤍a cozy inn
🤍little bit of a mystery
🤍some suspense
🤍the tender romance
🤍theme of finding hope and joy
🤍the heart melting happy ending!🥹
This story really touched my heart and brought me joy! It’s beautifully written and just wonderful! The perfect holiday read that I recommend to everyone this Christmas/winter season.
Thank you to the author for the arc copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: kisses only, cruelty
I loved this novella. I fell in love with the dedication and the prologue, and I knew then, that I was in for a treat with this book! Christopher and Eleanor’s story was romantic, touching, so very sweet, and it definitely made me teary eyed on multiple occasions!🥹I loved the theme of hope and finding joy and happiness.
Childhood friends to more is my favorite trope because of the memories and history between the characters. I loved those moments between these two, and it really made their love story that much sweeter! This story also has a fun twist on this trope that I can’t wait for you to discover!
Read for:
🤍childhood friends
🤍a snowstorm
🤍a cozy inn
🤍little bit of a mystery
🤍some suspense
🤍the tender romance
🤍theme of finding hope and joy
🤍the heart melting happy ending!🥹
This story really touched my heart and brought me joy! It’s beautifully written and just wonderful! The perfect holiday read that I recommend to everyone this Christmas/winter season.
Thank you to the author for the arc copy. All opinions are my own.
Content: kisses only, cruelty
December 9, 2023
A clean story. Pre teen childhood friends get split up through tragic and underhand circumstances, and stumble over each other in their mid twenties at an Inn. Firstly it makes a pleasant change to have a story where the main and supporting characters are not titled. I enjoyed the story. There was the odd Americanism, such as cents getting mentioned, but that did not really intrude. What I did find odd is that Ellie’s father has been searching for her for 13 years, but apparently has been unable to trace her uncle. Given her father is wealthy and the uncle is also looking for Ellie, so is not
exactly hiding ( he used he real name in the village), and has a town house in London, I would have thought he would have been found. Then there is the forced marriage the uncle is trying to make Ellie have. Given she is now 25 I am sure she could have refused to comply at the ceremony, and at the masked event even though her uncle was staying close to her I am sure she could have alerted someone and created a scene to let everyone know what was happening. But for all that I did enjoy it so not quite 5!stars but it is definitely a 4 star.
exactly hiding ( he used he real name in the village), and has a town house in London, I would have thought he would have been found. Then there is the forced marriage the uncle is trying to make Ellie have. Given she is now 25 I am sure she could have refused to comply at the ceremony, and at the masked event even though her uncle was staying close to her I am sure she could have alerted someone and created a scene to let everyone know what was happening. But for all that I did enjoy it so not quite 5!stars but it is definitely a 4 star.
December 12, 2023
“𝙰 𝚜𝚞𝚛𝚙𝚛𝚒𝚜𝚎?” 𝙷𝚎𝚛 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚝 𝚜𝚊𝚗𝚔. “𝙱𝚞𝚝 𝙸 𝚍𝚘 𝚗𝚘𝚝 𝚑𝚊𝚟𝚎 𝚊𝚗𝚢𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐 𝚏𝚘𝚛 𝚢𝚘𝚞 𝚒𝚗 𝚛𝚎𝚝𝚞𝚛𝚗.” 𝙷𝚎 𝚜𝚑𝚘𝚘𝚔 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚑𝚎𝚊𝚍, 𝚜𝚒𝚗𝚌𝚎𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚢 𝚒𝚗 𝚑𝚒𝚜 𝚎𝚢𝚎𝚜. “𝚈𝚘𝚞 𝚊𝚛𝚎 𝚖𝚘𝚛𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚊𝚗 𝚎𝚗𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑.”
- 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘺 𝘐𝘯𝘯, Courtney Willis
A snowstorm leaves Christopher Booth stranded at a country inn. It's there he meets a kitchen maid who seems all too familiar and her presence whispers of childhood memories from a Christmas years ago....
Eleanor Grant experienced heartache and trials as a child. Now in hiding to escape her past, she's not about to reveal her true identity to anyone.
As the snow begins to clear, so do the paths that lie before Eleanor and Christopher, but they have decide which road to take.
𝙰 𝚏𝚎𝚠 𝚏𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜...
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Childhood friends
⛸ Ice skating
🎄 Christmas themed
♟ Chess
🥸 Undercover character
❄ Stranded by the snow at a cozy inn
🧐 Mystery
💕 Romance
This is such a cute, cozy Christmas read! I loved the prologue and the main characters' shared history. This is a clean Regency romance set in a cozy inn during the holidays. Loved the message of hope and this book left me feeling warm and fuzzy.
- 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘢𝘵 𝘕𝘰𝘳𝘵𝘩𝘣𝘶𝘳𝘺 𝘐𝘯𝘯, Courtney Willis
A snowstorm leaves Christopher Booth stranded at a country inn. It's there he meets a kitchen maid who seems all too familiar and her presence whispers of childhood memories from a Christmas years ago....
Eleanor Grant experienced heartache and trials as a child. Now in hiding to escape her past, she's not about to reveal her true identity to anyone.
As the snow begins to clear, so do the paths that lie before Eleanor and Christopher, but they have decide which road to take.
𝙰 𝚏𝚎𝚠 𝚏𝚊𝚟𝚘𝚛𝚒𝚝𝚎 𝚝𝚑𝚒𝚗𝚐𝚜...
👩🏼🤝👨🏻 Childhood friends
⛸ Ice skating
🎄 Christmas themed
♟ Chess
🥸 Undercover character
❄ Stranded by the snow at a cozy inn
🧐 Mystery
💕 Romance
This is such a cute, cozy Christmas read! I loved the prologue and the main characters' shared history. This is a clean Regency romance set in a cozy inn during the holidays. Loved the message of hope and this book left me feeling warm and fuzzy.
December 6, 2023
“Having you back in my life is a joy I will not take for granted, and I intend to see that your happiness is secured.”
I loved this book starting with Courtney’s beautiful dedication. Christopher and Eleanor “Ellie” were separated several Christmases ago, but after some time they are united again.
After Christopher’s carriage gets stuck in the snow, he now finds himself at the Northbury Inn. His original plan was to travel north to attend a house party to hopefully save his parents from destitution and find a young woman.
After escaping from her horrible Uncle, Ellie goes into hiding at the Northbury Inn where she becomes a maid. When they both recognize each other, their friendship turns to romance which is so sweet. I enjoyed the touch of mystery that Courtney added to the storyline.
This was a wonderful book from start to finish! I loved the relationship between Christopher and Ellie that developed. I enjoyed the time of ice skating, stirring of Christmas pudding, and snowball fights. There was hope, joy, love, friendship, and some suspense.
I loved this book starting with Courtney’s beautiful dedication. Christopher and Eleanor “Ellie” were separated several Christmases ago, but after some time they are united again.
After Christopher’s carriage gets stuck in the snow, he now finds himself at the Northbury Inn. His original plan was to travel north to attend a house party to hopefully save his parents from destitution and find a young woman.
After escaping from her horrible Uncle, Ellie goes into hiding at the Northbury Inn where she becomes a maid. When they both recognize each other, their friendship turns to romance which is so sweet. I enjoyed the touch of mystery that Courtney added to the storyline.
This was a wonderful book from start to finish! I loved the relationship between Christopher and Ellie that developed. I enjoyed the time of ice skating, stirring of Christmas pudding, and snowball fights. There was hope, joy, love, friendship, and some suspense.
December 7, 2023
Ellie and Kit were childhood friends.Circumstances beyond their control separated them. But a chance meeting offers the opportunity to spend time together.Will their childhood friendship be enough to overcome their circumstances?
This was a sweet story! There are some magical moments between Ellie and Kit. Ellie has lived without hope for so long. Will she allow it to grow? What happens if things take a turn for the worst? Will she be strong enough to withstand the heartbreak?
And Kit is trying so hard to do the right thing! But with 2 choices, and possible domino effects, which choice is the right one?
This story has all the magic of Christmas miracles. And it definitely delivered on the hope aspect. I really think the dedication sets the whole tone for the book.
Thanks to the author for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
This was a sweet story! There are some magical moments between Ellie and Kit. Ellie has lived without hope for so long. Will she allow it to grow? What happens if things take a turn for the worst? Will she be strong enough to withstand the heartbreak?
And Kit is trying so hard to do the right thing! But with 2 choices, and possible domino effects, which choice is the right one?
This story has all the magic of Christmas miracles. And it definitely delivered on the hope aspect. I really think the dedication sets the whole tone for the book.
Thanks to the author for an eARC. All thoughts are my own.
December 19, 2023
Two long-lost friends come together in this beautiful Christmas Regency romance. Willis takes you away to Regency times with a snowstorm and weeks in a delightful little inn.
Christmas in Northbury Inn did not disappoint one bit when it comes to Christopher and Eleanor coming together once again. Hope and joy can be found at Christmas time, and this book just gives you all the feels of that and romance. Willis has a beautiful story with these two delightful characters. With a touch of mystery and suspense this romance gives you a little bit more than you are expecting.
Definitely give this book a go, as well as the other four books in the Once Upon a Snowstorm series because they will fill your Christmas with hope, romance, Christmas magic and more.
*I received an advanced ecopy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
Christmas in Northbury Inn did not disappoint one bit when it comes to Christopher and Eleanor coming together once again. Hope and joy can be found at Christmas time, and this book just gives you all the feels of that and romance. Willis has a beautiful story with these two delightful characters. With a touch of mystery and suspense this romance gives you a little bit more than you are expecting.
Definitely give this book a go, as well as the other four books in the Once Upon a Snowstorm series because they will fill your Christmas with hope, romance, Christmas magic and more.
*I received an advanced ecopy from the publisher/author and all opinions are my own.
January 1, 2025
Am I allowed to say this was my favorite of the series? I normally don’t like picking favorites, but I really really really liked this one.
Kit and Ellie were close childhood friends until Ellie disappeared. Years later, Kit is traveling to a house party when he gets snowed in at an inn. Ellie is working there, disguised as a maid and she recognizes Kit immediately. When Kit finally realizes who she is can he persuade Ellie to come out of hiding? Will family expectations interfere in this reunion?
Highlights:
Mr and Mrs Hill (the innkeepers) are the best!
The ice skating scene is so fun!
I love the mask ball!
I love Ellie for how resilient she is. I love seeing her journey of growth and healing.
I love Kit for being tender and patient. I love that he wants to help all who he can help.
Kit and Ellie were close childhood friends until Ellie disappeared. Years later, Kit is traveling to a house party when he gets snowed in at an inn. Ellie is working there, disguised as a maid and she recognizes Kit immediately. When Kit finally realizes who she is can he persuade Ellie to come out of hiding? Will family expectations interfere in this reunion?
Highlights:
Mr and Mrs Hill (the innkeepers) are the best!
The ice skating scene is so fun!
I love the mask ball!
I love Ellie for how resilient she is. I love seeing her journey of growth and healing.
I love Kit for being tender and patient. I love that he wants to help all who he can help.
December 19, 2023
Childhood best friends who got separated and found each other. Eleanor escaped a bad situation and is hiding as a maid at an inn. Christopher has not seen his childhood best friends in years. But a chance meeting with a maid changes everything for him.
This book was so cute, and perfect for the Christmas season. I loved seeing Kti and Eleanor reconnect as adults. There were so many romantic and Christmasy elements that gave the book such a cozy feel. There was a sense of romance and mystery as well which made the book much more fun. I loved the little twist at the end! It’s a perfect book for the Christmas season. Loved the message of hope at the end.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
This book was so cute, and perfect for the Christmas season. I loved seeing Kti and Eleanor reconnect as adults. There were so many romantic and Christmasy elements that gave the book such a cozy feel. There was a sense of romance and mystery as well which made the book much more fun. I loved the little twist at the end! It’s a perfect book for the Christmas season. Loved the message of hope at the end.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 15, 2024
Awww this was such a sweet Regency Christmas book! The last thing Christopher expects when he's snowed-in at the Northbury Inn on his way to make a proposal is to discover his long-last childhood friend in hiding. Turns out, his heart still beats soundly for her, and the sparks between them never died. Ellie is a resilient FMC. I really admired her courage. She endured so much and still had such a giving heart. Christopher was so sweet as he helped Ellie discover the truth about her father (which I shan't spoil) and must decide whether to follow his heart or marry to support his family. I wanted these two to be together so bad. Give me all the almost-snow kisses and stolen moments by a warm fire. Perfect holiday reading
December 6, 2023
I was hooked from the beginning.
This is a sweet story of long lost childhood friends finding one another unexpectedly.
Christopher Booth is on his way to a Houseparty, where a wealthy young lady awaits him, to fulfill his “duty” as a son to bring his parents out of destitution.
After having her life ripped away from her, Eleanor Grant is in hiding, working for a lovely family at the Northbury Inn.
One winter storm brings these childhood friends back together and changes their futures forever.
Beautifully written and filled with delightful characters, all sorts of Christmas goodies, and a touch of suspense, this story will have you smiling and cheering as Ellie and Christopher find love and hope at the Northbury Inn.
I received an advance free copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
This is a sweet story of long lost childhood friends finding one another unexpectedly.
Christopher Booth is on his way to a Houseparty, where a wealthy young lady awaits him, to fulfill his “duty” as a son to bring his parents out of destitution.
After having her life ripped away from her, Eleanor Grant is in hiding, working for a lovely family at the Northbury Inn.
One winter storm brings these childhood friends back together and changes their futures forever.
Beautifully written and filled with delightful characters, all sorts of Christmas goodies, and a touch of suspense, this story will have you smiling and cheering as Ellie and Christopher find love and hope at the Northbury Inn.
I received an advance free copy and am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
December 11, 2023
This was one of those books that I instantly felt a connection to the story! I was drawn in by the nostalgic beginning and had to keep reading.
Also, I adore the MMC for so many reasons.
Kit and Ellie have always had a special connection. Making handmade gifts each Christmas is tradition! When many years have passed, what will happen when they meet again by chance?
Read this book if you like:
❄️ Childhood Friends
❄️ Pudding
❄️ Getting Caught in a Snowstorm
❄️ Ice Skating
❄️ Chess
❄️ Celebrating the Holidays
❄️ Cozy Surroundings
❄️ Surrounded by Family
❄️ Happy Memories
❄️ Unanswered Questions
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Also, I adore the MMC for so many reasons.
Kit and Ellie have always had a special connection. Making handmade gifts each Christmas is tradition! When many years have passed, what will happen when they meet again by chance?
Read this book if you like:
❄️ Childhood Friends
❄️ Pudding
❄️ Getting Caught in a Snowstorm
❄️ Ice Skating
❄️ Chess
❄️ Celebrating the Holidays
❄️ Cozy Surroundings
❄️ Surrounded by Family
❄️ Happy Memories
❄️ Unanswered Questions
I received a complimentary copy; all thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 19, 2023
What a sweet novella! I loved getting to know Eleanor and Christopher. They were childhood friends with some unexpected bumps through the years and ended with a happily ever after. I loved the ice skating part 🫠 and the masquerade part. I love the Hill family and I just hope they were able to attend their wedding. I didn’t know about the tradition of bread pudding around Christmas time which was interesting to learn about. There are nicknames and mistaken identity and mistletoe and chess. You don’t want to miss out on this book. Thank you Author Courtney Willis for an arc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 6, 2023
Kit and Ellie were best friends, separated by circumstances outside of their control. Yet, their paths crossed again. Will it be forever?
This book promised to be a sweet regency romance and it delivered! There was friendship, romance, and a little bit of suspense. Although the book was a quick read, I thought that the characters were well developed and the plot was entertaining! (I'm one of those people who loves 400+ page books, lol.)
The Christmas elements made me nostalgic and I really enjoyed the sweetness.
This book promised to be a sweet regency romance and it delivered! There was friendship, romance, and a little bit of suspense. Although the book was a quick read, I thought that the characters were well developed and the plot was entertaining! (I'm one of those people who loves 400+ page books, lol.)
The Christmas elements made me nostalgic and I really enjoyed the sweetness.
December 7, 2023
I found myself completely absorbed in Courtney’s beautifully descriptive writing and seamless dialogue. I love books where the writing is so well penned, you can perfectly envision the film adaptation in your head as you read.
This is a Winter wonderland dream come true of a regency romance. It’s amazing to me how authors can pack so much good stuff into less than 200 pages. All the sights, sounds and smells of the season will come to life as you read this beautiful novella.
For a more comprehensive review you can find me on Bookstagram at aliciasbooksanctuary
This is a Winter wonderland dream come true of a regency romance. It’s amazing to me how authors can pack so much good stuff into less than 200 pages. All the sights, sounds and smells of the season will come to life as you read this beautiful novella.
For a more comprehensive review you can find me on Bookstagram at aliciasbooksanctuary
December 8, 2023
A charming friends to lovers, holiday romance. Kit and Ellie were the best of friends growing up until one tragic night when their worlds were tipped upside down. They were lost to each other for 13 years, neither believing they had a chance of finding each other. A beautiful story that pulls at your heartstrings and makes you believe in miracles. The characters are engaging and the story held my interest throughout. A sweet Christmas feel good story. I do hope we get to return to Northbury Inn. I loved the people that resided there.
December 21, 2023
This is a sweet Christmas story. A lovely second chance romance. I enjoyed it. The historical details and traditions added a fun element. Ellie and Kit were childhood sweethearts that were separated under mysterious circumstances many years before. When Kit is stranded by bad weather at an Inn, he does not expect to find a maidservant that reminds him of Ellie. For her part, Ellie has good reason to hide her identity, but the close confines of the Inn don’t make keeping secrets easy. This is a sweet and clean story with a couple instances of mild harsh language in context.
December 9, 2025
childhood friends to lovers
hidden identity
holiday romance
closed door romance
Christmas at Northbury Inn wrapped me in cozy snow covered charm and hopeful holiday romance from the very first page. Christopher and Eleanor’s reunion was full of second chances, sweet recognition, and all the warm Christmas magic I love. Their slow burn reconnection mixed with secrets and a touch of danger kept the story engaging from start to finish. This novella delivers classic holiday comfort with a gentle regency twist.
Content Warnings:
-no language
-kisses only
-kidnapping
hidden identity
holiday romance
closed door romance
Christmas at Northbury Inn wrapped me in cozy snow covered charm and hopeful holiday romance from the very first page. Christopher and Eleanor’s reunion was full of second chances, sweet recognition, and all the warm Christmas magic I love. Their slow burn reconnection mixed with secrets and a touch of danger kept the story engaging from start to finish. This novella delivers classic holiday comfort with a gentle regency twist.
Content Warnings:
-no language
-kisses only
-kidnapping
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