Josie is a talented chef who is in her late twenties. She is also a single mother to ten-month old Titus, whom she adores. She loves her flat in a prestigious crescent in Bath, but she wonders if she should stay there with money now tighter than it was. Titus’s father, Giles, left the two of them the day Titus was born…  Josie supplements her funds by preparing meals part time for a hotel and, during the Christmas season, by making and selling Christmas puddings at the local market.

Though Titus is the love of her life, she does crave adult company. When an attractive neighbour shows up at her door she succumbs to temptation and invites him in.

Meanwhile, Giles is now regretting his immature and selfish behavior toward Josie and Titus and wonders if he can get back what he so foolishly gave up.

This is my very first read of Veronica Henry’s work. Although I don’t usually read romances, this Christmas novella was delightful!

Authentic characters, a beautiful setting, a darling baby, and Christmas… what’s not to love? As an added bonus there are some delicious sounding recipes at the end.

A perfect ‘one-sitting’ read for that afternoon in the holiday season when you have some ‘me-time’. Recommended!

In 2000 Veronica Henry got her first book deal, and she is  currently writing her twenty fourth novel.

She also writes lifestyle features for newspapers and magazines, including Woman and Home, Red, The Daily Mail, Woman and The Sunday Times.

She speaks regularly at Literary Festivals, libraries, WIs and charity events, talking about her career and the inspiration for her novels.

Veronica lives by the sea in North Devon and starts most days with a walk on the beach with her dog, Zelda. Her three sons are all grown up now and come and go with the tide. Happiness to her is the French windows open, a Negroni in her hand, some music and a few friends or family round the table.

Visit Veronica’s official website: http://www.veronicahenry.co.uk/index.php

Follow Veronica Henry on Twitter @veronica_henry