Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor
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As the beloved stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, Lady Mariah Lyons cherishes her home at Plumford Manor, but her idyllic world will be threatened when the estate passes to Cyril Lightbourne, a childhood friend she hasn’t seen or heard from in years. Once upon a time, Mariah dreamed their old friendship would kindle into something more—but that was before she heard that Cyril was courting the cruel-hearted Lady Pearl. Now, Mariah is willing to welcome him as a friend and pray he will finally be the heir her stepfather needs, but she’ll keep her heart locked safely away from anyone with such poor taste.
Due to misunderstandings, Cyril Lightbourne has long avoided returning to Plumford Manor, yet he reluctantly returns in time for Christmas. When his friendship with Lady Mariah reignites, he finds himself torn between his affection for her and her family's distance toward him because of Lady Pearl, a woman he’d rather forget. Then more trouble arrives in the form of a Danish lord on a mission to win Mariah's hand by Christmas…and to disgrace Cyril in the process.
Inspired by The Nutcracker, this Edwardian-era historical romance is a tale of holiday spirit, love, and the power of family and friendship from bestselling and award-winning author Roseanna M. White.
Additional information
| Weight | .9 lbs |
|---|---|
| Dimensions | 9 × 6 × 1 in |
14 reviews for Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor
Bethany –
Cozy and beautiful, this is an excellent Christmas read. The descriptions were beautifully done, the Nutcracker comparisons super fun, and the plot perfect. There are moments when religious thoughts and themes are incorporated into scenes, but one of my favourite things about White’s books is how seamlessly she incorporates God into the story. Mentions aren’t forced in just to fit a theme and—in this case—we get a subtle lesson alongside the story.
Considering this is the first Christmas-themed book in this genre from White, I wasn’t sure what to expect. Post reading, I am definitely hoping for more Christmas novellas from her, and this one will definitely get a reread another Christmas season.
Violence: none to speak of; a mention of fighting with fists
Romance: so clean. A HEA kiss or two, but they are brief and unembellished.
Bonus: I have a paper copy, but actually read it digitally through Hoopla. Many libraries should have it. : )
Laura C –
This book was perfection. The true meaning of Christmas, the Nutcracker, sugar plums, a bit of romance, what more could you ask for? I was instantly transported to Mariah’s world and enjoyed every second I spent there.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bethany House Publishers, and the author for a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sarah V –
I want to go back in time and visit Sugar Plum Manor (if it were real)!
But, seeing as how that isn’t an option, reading this book is definitely the next best thing! I loved it so much! I’m not usually much of a Christmas novel reader, but when one of your very favorite authors shares that she’s writing one, you smile and start reading it as soon as it’s available. At least, I do. Because who doesn’t love Christmas in August? (when my advanced copy arrived) I’m definitely looking forward to reading it again, closer to December, maybe with a fuzzy blanket, a cup of tea, and some Christmas cookies.
Things I loved: the setting. A beautiful manor house in England!
The characters: Lady Mariah was delightful! I loved her kind and generous spirit and how she seeks to share joy with others. And Cyril who loves Mariah’s whimsy and discovers a family, if he’s willing to leave his bitterness behind. The village children! I can just imagine the fun they had, throwing snowballs and leading the adults on a merry adventure.
The reminders of the season: a couple of the characters are grumpy and obviously aren’t enjoying the wonder of Christmas and I loved how the author and the other characters drew them, and myself as the reader, into the delight and joy around them.
Overall, if you are looking for a beautiful story to spend a few hours with that leaves you laughing and smiling in contentment as the last page is turned, I would highly recommend this one!
*My thanks to the author and publisher for my advanced copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.
Meagan Myhren-Bennett –
Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor
By Roseanna M. White
This is an enjoyable and delightful retelling of The Nutcracker. The key elements of the story are there but they woven into the story so artfully that if you are not aware of it beforehand you may not notice it.
Lady Mariah Lyons loves her home at Plumford Manor, especially at Christmas time when she helps transform it into Sugar Plum Manor. Unfortunately as the stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, she’ll never inherit her belief home. No it will be passing to distant relative of the earl’s, Cyril Lightbourne.
Cyril was a close friend of Mariah after a delightful holiday while both were still children. But time and a misunderstood conversation have reshaped what everyone expected to have happened. Years have passed Cyril and Mariah finally get a chance to rediscover their bonds of childhood friendship.
This is a lovely story that retells a Christmas Classic without resorting to the use of magic or oversized rodents. My favorite scene involves the Christmas display and all the wonders one could conceive of. And when Mariah plans a surprise with the village children she changes this holiday into one no one will ever forget. Highly recommended if you want a quiet, clean read for the Christmas season.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Faith –
An enchanting Christmastime Edwardian romance, inspired by The Nutcracker, about the true light of Christmas.
Lady Mariah Lyons delights in bringing the joy of Christmas to those around her, making sweets, writing plays, and devising special surprises for the local children to enjoy. But this year is different with the visitation of a Danish nobleman, and a childhood friend, over the festive season.
A captivating and heartwarming story of family, faith, and finding love at Christmas time. I loved Mariah’s sense of joy, how she uses her gifts to create things for others to enjoy and share her wonder. This is such a fun feel-good read, with wonderful characters, and an engaging plot with ties to the classic Christmastime tale. I really liked Mariah’s friendship with Cyril, as well as how she is so kind and thoughtful towards the staff, treating them like family.
Overall, a well written read that I didn’t want to end, with likable characters, and a compelling story, filled with a sense of wonder and faith. Great interaction between the characters, as well as a strong theme of the true meaning of Christmas. A highly entertaining, heartwarming read, that you will love to re-read year after year!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Shelley B. –
Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor is a charming novella overflowing with the magic of Christmas. This enchanting story shares the joys of the holiday season, romance, and the closeness of family. The tale offers notes of The Nutcracker story throughout, and Christmas traditions abound as Mariah finds herself on the receiving end of the attentions of two gentlemen, Danish Lord Gyldenkrone and childhood friend Cyril Lightbourne. Who will Mariah find to be the man that is right for her?
I love the contagious joy that Mariah exudes throughout the story and can’t help but root for her happiness. The Christmas eve play put on by the local children, sugar plum candies, and beautiful Christmas decor descriptions add to the charm and wonder of the story. A heartwarming must-read perfect for the holiday season and beyond.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author in order to share my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Meagan Myhren-Bennett –
Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor
By Roseanna M. White
This is an enjoyable and delightful retelling of The Nutcracker. The key elements of the story are there but they woven into the story so artfully that if you are not aware of it beforehand you may not notice it.
Lady Mariah Lyons loves her home at Plumford Manor, especially at Christmas time when she helps transform it into Sugar Plum Manor. Unfortunately as the stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, she’ll never inherit her belief home. No it will be passing to distant relative of the earl’s, Cyril Lightbourne.
Cyril was a close friend of Mariah after a delightful holiday while both were still children. But time and a misunderstood conversation have reshaped what everyone should have happened. Years have passed Cyril and Mariah finally get a chance to rediscover their bonds of childhood friendship.
This is a lovely story that retells a Christmas Classic without resorting to the use of magic or oversized rodents. My favorite scene involves the Christmas display and all the wonders one could conceive of. And when Mariah plans a surprise with the village children she changes this holiday into one no one will ever forget. Highly recommended if you want a quiet, clean read for the Christmas season.
I was provided a complimentary copy of this book with no expectations but that I provide my honest opinion. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Erin Slocum –
I’m a huge fan of Roseanna M White and her books. I’ve read all of them. And I’m super lucky to get advanced copies to review. This book was so fun. It’s not super long. Reads really fast. And will hit you in all the feels.
There is a bit of tension in this book. But I wouldn’t say it has any suspense or mystery really. Though it does have conflict, resolution, and romance. Plus lots of Christmas. And yummy treats. And snow. Oh, and of course the remaking of the story of the Nutcracker!
I wasn’t really sure what to expect when I read what the book was going to be about. But once I got started on the novel I couldn’t put it down. I fell in love with the characters. None of them have had the perfect life. Several have lost loved ones. Many are searching for true love. They stand up for justice. And sometimes they make the wrong decisions and need help along the way.
This was incredibly well written.
The characters reach out and won’t let you go. I really liked Cyril as a character. He had a hard life in his formative years. And he may have misunderstood some things from his time with the family before which led to him staying away.
Mariah is a wonderful character as well. She has so much joy and excitement with life. I love her character and her view on life. I also have to giggle because I have a daughter named Mariah Joy and this Mariah character 100% made me think of Joy which was fun to find that connection.
There is a special spot in my heart for Louise as well. She’s had pain. She’s had suffering. And maybe she grew up a little too fast. She’s beautiful on the outside but has to learn to be beautiful on the inside as well.
I can’t say enough good about this sweet novella. It filled a nice spot while I wait for book three of the Imposters series as well. If you’ve read them you know why that wait is so hard! Grab a copy today and let me know what you think of this sweet romance novel.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Paty Hinojosa –
What a delightful and endearing Christmas Novella!
Roseanna White’s stories never disappoint me, and this one was delightful and lighthearted, while at the same time engaging, with excellent character development and a Christian Christmas inspired message that touched and warmed my heart.
Lady Mariah Lyons, stepdaughter of the Earl of Castleton, loves her home -Plumford Manor- and has enjoyed a beautiful childhood dedicated to serve, keep the family traditions, and help the people of her community, particularly the children. There’s one thing lacking: her childhood friend Cyril, who left many years ago and with whom she ended up losing connection. But things drastically change when the same Cyril Lightbourne reenters her world as her stepfather’s heir. Mariah once harbored wishes of a future with him, but now that she knows he’s pursuing Lady Pearl, her nemesis who bullied her, she doesn’t want a man who can be attracted to that kind of woman. But Cyril charms her once more with his openness and genuineness, his acceptance of her sparky and dreamer personality. Everyone wants her to behave properly and demure, but Mariah has a light that must not be snuffed, and Cyril recognizes that. But things get complicated when a Danish Lord connected to Royalty who is determined to win Mariah’s hand by Christmas, and at the same time, have his revenge with Cyril. Will Mariah let her family pressure her to an arranged marriage, or can be strong enough to fight for what fills her heart?
A heartwarming Christmas tale based on The Nutcracker, full of small little details that I loved! The Christmas traditions, the joy of picking the tasteful sugarplums, the making of a Christmas Play with the children of the village. The characters were the best part: Mariah was a sweet, kindhearted girl who dreamed and had the most vivid imagination. Her kindness and compassion compelled her to do things that could bring joy to people. And isn’t that what Christmas is all about, sharing with other the joy of the birth of our savior? Even if going against other’s expectations, she doesn’t care of her image as long as her heart is full. Cyril falls pretty quickly for her. He though the vivid Mariah he had known during his childhood had changed into a proper lady, But, when he recognizes her playful innocence and her big heart toward making others happy, she’s not only the same Mariah he knew, but womanhood has made her even more bright and alluring in her own sweet, joyful way. But how can he compete with the Danish arrogant lord who is determined to win Mariah at all costs? The plot is very engaging, especially because of the characters, and their dialogues and banter. I loved secondary characters as Professor Skylark and his brilliant Christmas artistic creations. All the Christmas traditions -especially the ones related with the sugarplums- made me feel the vibes and the warmth of the Christmas Season, the joy of giving and caring for the needy. The part of the making of the play with the children was charming, and I loved the sense of community they shared, mostly fostered by Mariah. The villain was so conceited and vain that he was perfect for the part he played in trying to tear Mariah and Cyril apart. And the inspirational message of giving, thinking of others, bring joy to others, and also about trusting God, forgiveness and redemption, left me grateful for my Loving God and my faith.
I read it pretty quickly because it hooked me since the first chapter. I enjoyed the struggles to get to the Happily Ever After, it didn’t feel predictable at all. The romance was so sweet it made me sigh! Cyril is easily competing with my others book boyfriends.
In short, the perfect Christmas story that will warm your heart and make it sing!
I received a complimentary copy from the Publisher but wasn’t required to post a positive review. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
Paula Shreckhise –
Delightful story full of the magic of Christmas. Mariah Lyons, stepdaughter of the Earl of Plumford, loves her stepfather and Plumford Manor. Too bad she cannot inherit the estate. It goes to a distant relative, Cyril Lightbourne. Long ago, Cyril and Mariah were friends but lost touch as they grew up. Now Cyril has returned to learn to become the Earl.
Cyril and Mariah unearth an old play they composed when they were youngsters and enlist the village children to entertain everyone on Christmas Eve.
Full of the spirit of Christmas and quite a few things Nutcracker Suite, this tale also has themes of reconciliation, forgiveness and childhood innocence. And above all, it showed the reason for Christmas: that Christ came in humility to dwell among His people.
This story totally put me in the mood for Christmas with snow, sugarplums, nutcrackers and fairies. It was a community working together to bring joy.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House on behalf of the author and an ecopy via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Christine –
Combine the cozy Christmas season with early twentieth century England and it was easy to love this novella right from the beginning! Although this is a novella, the plot has complexity and depth far beyond its shorter pages. I really liked the characters in the novella and was impressed with how developed they were for a shorter story. The historical setting was well researched and described, and although this book is centered around Christmas, I do think it can be read any time one wishes for a cozy romantic read. The joy of Jesus’s birth was the center of the faith story and I appreciate the author ensuring these spiritual themes shone. I really liked the novella and highly recommend it to those who wish for a clean romantic read!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Melissa D. –
Sugar plums, sleigh rides, Christmas plays, and all the charm, whimsy, and romance of an Edwardian Christmas season with the true meaning beautifully woven into the story! I adored this book. The Nutcracker is a favorite ballet & I enjoyed all the clever nods to this fun story. The romance was a childhood friends to more with a twist where an additional suitor’s vying for the heroine’s hand. This wonderfully written novella really brings the Christmas spirit & renewed all those feelings of delight I look forward to this time of year.
Lady Mariah Lyons loves living at Plumford Manor with her beloved stepfather, mother, & siblings. She especially cherishes the Christmas season and is busy preparing. But, there’s a shadow over her festivities when she learns that her childhood friend & the heir to the estate Cyril Lightbourne is coming to celebrate, but is courting her cruel nemesis Lady Pearl. Mariah once hoped Cyril would be her real life hero from the stories they made up together, but now she must put away childish things & settle for his friendship. Mariah has another surprise though, her parents have invited Lord Søren Gyldenkrone from Denmark. The handsome lord is there to court her and offers her the chance for their children to become royalty.
When Cyril returns to Plumford Manor, his fond memories return along with his delightful friendship with Mariah. Unfortunately, the family misinterpreted his relationship with Lady Pearl & now there’s an unwanted suitor whom Cyril has had a run in with before. As he realizes his feelings for Mariah may be more than friendship, can Cyril convince her to be more than friends and choose him.
This story had so much Christmas magic. From the delightful setting, delicious food, fun Christmas traditions, and sweet romance, this book grabbed hold and didn’t let go. Normally, I read Christmas books closer to the season, but this book was so engaging and lovely that I’d read it any time of year. Though it’s a novella, there’s a lot packed into this story with endearing characters who experience a lot of growth. I also enjoyed how the true meaning of Christmas with the celebration of Christ’s birth was beautifully woven in.
Highly recommend this delightful Christmas novella & look forward to cozying up with it again closer to Christmas. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the author and publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Winnie Thomas –
Set in England in 1902, Roseanna M. White’s new story, Christmas at Sugar Plum Manor, is perfect for getting the reader in a holiday mood. With plenty of sugar plums, Christmas cheer, and a nod to The Nutcracker, this charming tale is full of the magic of Christmas. The characters are well-drawn and engaging, especially Mariah and Cyril who reconnect after a shared childhood. As they rediscover their friendship and fond memories, they work together to bring Christmas joy to the people of the town.
“When everyone works together, amazing things can happen.”
While this is a light-hearted, delightful story, the author also weaves inspiration into it with references to the Christ child and the real purpose of Christmas. It’s also filled with forgiveness, family, and hope. This tale should appeal to those who enjoy entertaining, easy-to-read, clean and wholesome stories.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Erin L. –
This was such a fun Christmas read! This one had the vibes of Pepper Basham’s Freddie and Grace books (Mariah reminded me an awful lot of Grace anyway) and a significant nod to the Nutcracker, which is a show I have some fond memories of, along with a beautiful story that showcased the true meaning of Christmas. This story follows Lady Mariah Lyons and the 2 gentlemen vying for her hand. There was a lot of fun packed in this short novel, along with great character development, lessons in the importance of both humility and joy and a subtle but solidly present faith thread as the miracle of Jesus’s birth was given as the reason for the joy of the season. I enjoyed both the lightheartedness of the children’s play and Mariah’s imaginings, as well as the depth of the characters and overall story. Though this tale was novella-length, it still packed quite the punch! For those who enjoy fun, light Christmasy historical romances, this is a great one to read! Special thanks to the author and publisher for an advance copy of this book. I was under no obligation to provide a review and the thoughts contained herein are my own.