When Nola returns to her charming Maine hometown determined to avoid all things merry and bright, she's convinced nothing—and no one—can lift her grinch-like spirits, especially not Caleb, the boy who broke her heart years ago. But when a mysterious letter from a fellow Christmas cynic lands in her mailbox, Nola finds herself charmed by a witty pen pal who finally gets her sourpuss attitude. As their letters grow flirtier and more intimate, Nola's defenses start crumbling—only to discover that the one person making her heart race might be the very last person she expected. Perfect for anyone who loves a good second-chance romance wrapped up in holiday feels and mistaken-identity shenanigans!

Reading soundtrack

Listen while you read

Spotify

guardedwintryyearningbittersweethopeful

Soft indie and acoustic folk with wintry melancholy—think Bon Iver, Iron & Wine, and Sigur Rós. Mix in gentle pop (Maggie Rogers, Hozier) and cozy holiday instrumentals. Capture the tension between guarded heartache and slow-melting warmth, small-town nostalgia tinged with reluctant hope.

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