A Magical New York Christmas by Anita Hughes (2021)Sabrina is staying at the Plaza Hotel, ghostwriting the memoir of famous art dealer Grayson Westcott, when she meets Ian. Through some misunderstandings, Sabrina thinks Ian is British aristocracy and he thinks she is a wealthy businesswoman. There's a spark between them, but will they feel the same way when they find out the truth about each other? The Plaza Hotel/NYC setting is so perfect for a Christmas romance, and I really felt all the holiday vibes coming through. The romance was sweet, although maybe a little too chaste and old-fashioned for my liking, particularly for a contemporary novel. I was pleasantly surprised by a second timeline depicting Grayson's time as a butler at the Plaza more than 50 years ago, when he served Kay Thompson, author of the Eloise books set at the hotel. And I loved the way the two timelines ended up coming together! 4 stars
A Princess for Christmas by Jenny Holiday (2020)
Leo, a guy from NYC taking care of his little sister, finds himself acting as chauffeur to a real-life princess during her stay in the city. The two grow close and Princess Marie invites Leo and his sister to her country to celebrate Christmas. Although there are feelings between Marie and Leo, their different backgrounds may make it impossible for them to be together. I really liked this holiday romance, and the royalty angle is something I can never resist! I loved the relationship between Leo and his sister Gabby - I could really tell how much they love each other and how hard he's trying to give her a normal life. I was rooting for Marie in her desire to do some good in the world and break away from her father's demands. Although Marie seemed a little stiff at times, the growing feelings between Marie and Leo were sweet and then, surprisingly, pretty steamy! I definitely wasn't expecting such a spicy romance, but I enjoyed it! A little predictable in the end, but overall, a lovely romance with all the trappings of a Hallmark Christmas movie! 4 stars
* This post contains affiliate links; I earn a small commission on qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.
A Magical New York Christmas sounds like a sweet one. Although it does sound a bit too chaste for my taste, I do like the dual timeline aspect. That's always fun.
ReplyDeleteYes, it was something unexpected!
DeleteI am ok with predictable. I liked A Princess for Christmas. I agree, Gabby and Leo shared something special. I actually think all the political parts took me out of the story a bit, and that's why this one wasn't the big hit I thought it would be for me. I still liked it, but I expected to like it more.
ReplyDeleteI thought those parts gave it a bit more depth, but I can see how it could take a reader out of the holiday romance.
DeleteSeems very atractive and interesting books! I'm your new follower and I invite you to my blog if you want to.
ReplyDeleteThanks and have a nice day.
Thank you!
DeleteI've been eyeing both of these holiday reads so I'm excited to see how much you enjoyed them. :)
ReplyDeleteI hope you enjoy them, too, Suzanne!
DeleteI want to stay at the Plaza Hotel! Haha seriously though that does sound like a wonderful setting for a Christmas story.
ReplyDeleteI know! I really want to go there!
DeleteI was going to pick up the 'Princess' novel because I love a good royal romance trope but never did. Maybe for next year. Thanks so much for sharing your thoughts, Angela - and for taking the time to recently visit Finding Wonderland. :)
ReplyDeleteThanks for stopping by, Rissi!
DeleteThere's nothing I love more than a great holiday read! I am going to have to make sure that I have A Princess for Christmas on my list. It sounds amazing!
ReplyDeleteIt was a really surprising read!
DeleteI need to check these out! My most recent favorite holiday read has been Mistle Text by Whitney Dineen & Melanie Summers!
ReplyDeleteGenesis @ Whispering Chapters
I'll have to look that one up!
DeleteI've read a few of Hughes' novels and they are perfect for relaxing. I will have to check out the NYC one- love that setting for Christmas!
ReplyDeleteI need to check out more of her books!
DeleteThese both sound really cute! I'm glad you enjoyed them both!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Tracy!
DeleteThese sound like sweet Christmas books! And a little spicy is fun lol.
ReplyDeleteHaha, definitely!
DeleteThese both sound cute, though I think A Princess for Christmas may be more for me (gotta love that royalty trope :) )
ReplyDeleteThe royalty trope is one of my favorites!
Delete