I know, I know. There are those who start the holiday countdown on January 1st, and others who wait until December 24th to get their ducks--trees?--in a row.

Living in New England, I try to enjoy each season since they're all so short. Well, except for winter. Winter lasts forever! But the holidays don't. I hold off until November 1st to decorate my home and classroom, but I don't wait to read the holiday romances!

And guess what? ARCs for Tidings of Joy are in the hands of readers! I had originally planned to write Amelia's story next, but so many of you fell in love with Ashton and begged for his story. And to be honest, he was begging as well. What my characters want (or need), they get.

Get ready to get reacquainted with characters and couples you already love and meet more residents of Balsam Grove, Maine!

Hannah:

Independence has always been my shield, but last Christmas in Balsam Grove, Maine, something changed. The town's cozy charm wrapped around me like a warm embrace, and one rugged Marine has lingered in my thoughts ever since. Ashton Simmons is everything I never thought I wanted—strong, steady, and a threat to the freedom I treasure. Yet, the idea of spending another Christmas without him scares me more than losing my independence.

Ashton:

From the moment I met Hannah, I was captivated. As we work side by side on a special project for our friends, I see beyond the walls she’s built. Beneath her quiet strength lies a woman who’s been hurt by love and guards her heart fiercely. After years of serving overseas, I’m ready to put down roots, and Hannah is the one I want to share them with. Her kindness, her vulnerability, the way she lights up when she thinks no one’s watching—she’s a gift I can’t ignore. This Christmas, I’m determined to show her that love doesn’t mean losing herself—it means finding someone to share the magic of the season and a future filled with joy.

In the cozy charm of Balsam Grove, a guarded heart and a steadfast Marine find that the true magic of Christmas lies in the love they never expected to share.

And if you want another holiday rec, check out The Magic of Dating by Talor Delong, a free short story you'll love!

Happy reading, friends!

Marianne

xoxo