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When the holiday season rolls around, there’s nothing better than curling up with a cozy Christmas romance novella.
I mean, these heartwarming tales have a way of wrapping you in a blanket of love and festive cheer and Christmas is the perfect time to indulge in stories that are sweet, light, and brimming with romance.
Christmas romance novellas are the ideal choice for this time of year because they’re short and sweet and they’ll give you he right amount of warmth without taking up too much of your time.
You can easily finish one in a single evening, so they’re perfect for those busy holiday nights when you need a quick escape.
From charming small-town settings to meet-cutes under the mistletoe, these novellas often capture the magic of the season in just a few chapters.
They’re filled with everything you’d expect from a good Christmas story: a bit of holiday spirit, a dash of humor, and, of course, a happily ever after.
And, friends, there’s something for everyone in this genre. Plus, many of these novellas are set in picturesque, snow-covered towns that are sure to make you feel the holiday spirit, no matter where you are.
As you sip your hot cocoa and settle in for some reading, you’ll find that these Christmas romance novellas are perfect for setting the holiday mood.
So, if you’re looking for the perfect way to unwind during the holidays, why not pick up a Christmas romance novella? It’s the perfect way to add a little extra sparkle to your season.
Best Christmas Romance Novellas to Read
1. The Christmas Blanket by Kandi Steiner
Eliza’s surprise Christmas visit to Wellhaven, Vermont turns into an unexpected ordeal when a blizzard traps her in a tiny cabin with her ex-husband, River Jensen.
She hasn’t been home in four years and was determined to forget River, but their accidental reunion forces them to confront their past.
As they spend time together, Eliza begins to question her decision to leave and whether she can find her way back to River and her old life.
This one took me on such an emotional ride! The chemistry between Eliza and River is undeniable, and being stuck together in that tiny cabin felt so intense and real.
I loved how the story slowly showed the details of their past, as well as the pain and love they still carried for each other.
The snowy, secluded Vermont setting was perfect—it almost felt like a character itself with the way it brought them closer together.
And by the end, I was totally rooting for them to find their way back to each other. If you’re into second-chance romances with a lot of heart, this one’s a must-read.
2. The One Night Stand Before Christmas by Jana Aston
Noel enjoys the festive atmosphere of Reindeer Falls, especially during Christmas.
When the town’s Santa goes missing, her co-worker’s brother, Teddy, steps in.
Despite warnings about Teddy’s bad boy reputation, Noel feels a strong connection with him.
They have a great time together, and their fun leads to a memorable, passionate night.
I had so much fun with this novella! Reindeer Falls is the cutest little town, and the festive vibe really comes through.
Noel and Teddy’s story is playful and steamy, with just the right amount of holiday mischief.
I couldn’t stop smiling at their banter and the whole “bad boy Santa” thing—it’s as hilarious as it sounds.
The chemistry between them is off the charts, and their night together was both sweet and spicy.
It’s the perfect quick read to get you in the holiday spirit, with a little bit of naughty mixed in with the nice.
3. My Fake Christmas Fiance by Julie Kriss
When their families’ Christmas decoration companies merge, Wesley and Penny are bound by a contract that requires them to marry by the end of the year.
They both agree, thinking it’s just a formality. But as the year unfolds, they start to find themselves genuinely drawn to each other, and the fake engagement turns into something more real than they ever expected.
I wasn’t expecting to get so hooked on Wesley and Penny’s story, but wow, it really delivered.
The whole fake engagement setup is done so well—you can really see them falling for each other, even though they’re trying to play it cool.
The gradual build-up of their relationship felt so natural, and I loved watching them realize they’re more than just a business deal.
Plus, the Christmas backdrop added a magical touch that made everything feel extra romantic. This one’s perfect if you’re looking for a sweet and satisfying love story.
4. How My Brother’s Best Friend Stole Christmas by M. O’Keefe
Sophie Kane’s Christmas wish is for Sam Porter, her brother’s best friend and longtime crush, to notice her.
She dresses up for a holiday party hoping to catch his eye, and during a blackout, all her dreams about him come true.
But when the lights come back on, he pushes her away. Sophie decides she’s done with him.
However, after Sam is hired at her company, Kane Co., where Sophie is his boss, she finds him irresistible. Meanwhile, Sam has his own wish: he’s wanted Sophie all along.
This novella really hit the spot for me and I’ll forever recommend it to everyone I know.
Sophie and Sam’s chemistry is off the charts, and the tension between them had me turning pages like crazy.
I loved how Sophie went from pining after Sam to standing up for herself—her growth throughout the story was so satisfying.
And Sam… well, he’s that perfect mix of brooding and sweet that just gets to you.
The holiday setting adds an extra layer of charm, and the whole forbidden love aspect really ramps up the drama.
If you’re into brother’s best friend romances, this one’s a must-read for more reasons than one.
5. Christmas in July by Enni Amanda
Riley lands a job on a feature film and wants to impress Damian, the renowned director she admires.
While filming in Queenstown, New Zealand, a snowstorm isolates her from the crew and leaves her with an unexpected guest, Jonas, a handsome ski instructor with party supplies.
Riley is frustrated by the situation, as she’s focused on her job and Damian. However, as things spiral, Riley starts re-evaluating her priorities and discovers she might have more in common with Jonas than she initially thought.
I loved the whole concept of a Christmas story set in the middle of a New Zealand summer—it’s so different from the usual snowy settings.
Riley and Jonas have this slow-burn chemistry that just sneaks up on you, and I really enjoyed how their relationship developed.
The snowstorm isolating them from the crew was a fun twist, and it really pushed them to connect on a deeper level.
Plus, the way Riley’s priorities shift throughout the story felt really relatable. This one’s definitely worth picking up if you’re looking for something a bit different.
6. A Partridge and a Pregnancy by Willa Nash
Eva would rather be cozy at home on Christmas Eve morning, but instead, she’s standing outside her one-night stand’s house, preparing to tell him she’s pregnant.
Tobias Holiday, her old lover who’s now handsome and caring, isn’t the “cheap” one-night stand label she dreads.
Their reunion was meant to be a brief fling before she moved to London. Now, she’s unsure how to break the news about the baby.
Maybe she could sing it, like the silly songs she used to make up in the shower.
Eva and Tobias have this really sweet, understated chemistry that made their story so engaging and I loved how Eva wasn’t sure how to handle the whole pregnancy reveal.
Watching Tobias step up was just heartwarming and, you guys, the story has this perfect balance of humor and emotion—I found myself laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next.
The Christmas setting really brings it all together and this one’s for you if you’re into stories that mix a bit of the unexpected with a whole lot of heart.
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Top Holiday Historical Romance Novellas to Read ASAP
1. Once Upon a Winter’s Eve by Tessa Dare
In this book, Violet Winterbottom is a reserved young woman who speaks six languages but rarely speaks out.
At the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, a mysterious, injured stranger collapses at her feet. Though his appearance and behavior are suspicious, Violet is the only one who understands him.
She must uncover his secrets—whether he’s a smuggler, fugitive, or spy—before dawn.
As she delves into his past, she also confronts her own secrets, leading to unexpected adventure, passion, and love.
I completely fell in love with this novella. Violet is such a unique and relatable heroine—she’s smart, a bit reserved, and yet so full of passion.
The way she gets caught up in the mystery of the injured stranger at the Christmas ball was gripping, and I loved the twists and turns that followed.
The story blends adventure, romance, and a bit of intrigue in a way that kept me hooked from start to finish.
And the holiday setting in Spindle Cove just adds that perfect touch of magic. This is definitely a gem for anyone who loves historical romance with a festive twist.
2. A Kiss for Midwinter by Courtney Milan
Miss Lydia Charingford is cheerful and festive during Christmas, but she can’t shake the memory of a past mistake that almost tarnished her reputation.
Only Doctor Jonas Grantham knows the full story, and she avoids him despite feeling butterflies when he’s near.
Jonas, who has secretly loved Lydia for over a year, is set on changing her feelings towards him. His plan begins with a wager and a kiss, aiming to win her heart.
This novella left such a strong impression on me. Lydia and Jonas’s story is full of depth and emotion, with a beautiful undercurrent of hope and redemption.
Lydia’s past weighs heavily on her, and watching her slowly open up to Jonas was both heartbreaking and uplifting.
Jonas is such a steady, caring character, and his patience with Lydia is truly touching. The Christmas setting adds a wonderful warmth to their story and made it even more special.
If you’re in the mood for a romance that’s as thoughtful as it is heartwarming, this Christmas novella is a perfect choice.
3. A Holiday by Gaslight by Mimi Matthews
Sophie Appersett is willing to marry Mr. Edward Sharpe, a stern London merchant, to secure her family’s future.
After two months of courtship, she’s ready to end things, but her parents object.
To resolve the situation, she invites Mr. Sharpe to Appersett House for Christmas, hoping to give him one last chance to connect with her genuinely.
Sophie and Mr. Sharpe’s story is a slow-burn romance that feels incredibly authentic.
The tension between them, born from misunderstandings and societal pressures, is so well done, and I loved watching them slowly open up to each other.
The Christmas at Appersett House is beautifully described, with all the warmth and coziness you’d expect from a holiday romance.
And, I’m not joking when I say that this one is perfect if you’re looking for a historical steampunk romance that’s sweet, heartfelt, and full of Christmas spirit.
4. The Duke’s Match Girl by Lila DiPasqua
Leopold d’Ermart and Suzanne Matchet were once inseparable childhood friends who became lovers one Christmas Eve.
Leo, the heir to the Duke of Mont-Marly, and Suzanne, the daughter of his family’s physician, were not expected to fall in love.
Years later, Suzanne is struggling through her first Christmas without her father and has moved past Leo, who left her seven years ago.
Unexpectedly, Leo returns, now a celebrated libertine, determined to win her back and give her an unforgettable Christmas.
This novella hit all the right notes for me and it’s an instant fave that I always recommend to everyone.
Suzanne and Leo’s story is full of passion and longing, with a history that adds so much depth to their romance.
I loved how their past was woven into the story and it made their reunion feel so much more meaningful.
The balance of drama and romance was wonderful that it kept me hooked and you’ll definitely enjoy this one if you’re into stories about rekindling lost love, especially with a bit of holiday cheer.
5. Jane and the Twelve Days of Christmas by Stephanie Barron
On Christmas Eve, 1814, Jane Austen is invited to celebrate the holiday at The Vyne, the home of the influential Chute family.
The festive mood is disrupted when one of the guests dies in what seems to be an accident. Jane suspects foul play and must unravel the mystery amidst holiday festivities, charades, and hidden secrets.
With a killer among her fellow guests, Jane must determine who to trust and prevent further violence.
Jane Austen as a detective during Christmas? It’s just as intriguing as it sounds.
The mystery element is woven beautifully into the holiday festivities and the tension is high throughout.
I loved how Jane’s sharp wit and keen observation skills were highlighted and this made her the perfect sleuth.
The historical details added so much richness to the story, and the setting at The Vyne during Christmas is just wonderful.
If you’re a fan of cozy mysteries with a historical twist, this one’s a fantastic pick.
Must-Read Clean Christmas Romance Novellas
1. The Cowboy’s Special Christmas by Barbara McMahon
After being left at the altar, veterinarian Jennifer relocates to start fresh and heal from her past.
Cole Martin, who was hurt by his fiancée’s infidelity, is also wary of new relationships.
When Jennifer and Cole meet, there’s an immediate connection, but their past heartaches make it challenging to move forward.
Jennifer and Cole’s heartwarming story is full of sweetness and second chances, which I absolutely loved.
Both characters are carrying emotional scars, and watching them slowly open up to each other was really touching.
The small-town setting is perfect, with all the holiday charm you could ask for.
And, if you’re in the mood for a clean, love-at-first-sight story that will leave you smiling, this one is a great choice.
2. Charming Christmas by Erica Penrod
Hilary Newton runs her family’s hotel while dreaming of traveling the world, but her responsibilities keep her stuck at the front desk.
Her life changes when Griff Bailey, who prefers solitude, comes into the hotel with a misdelivered package. Griff and Hilary share a past—he once saved her from an accident, but she doesn’t remember him well.
As more mysterious packages arrive, bringing Griff and Hilary together, they face their growing feelings for each other and their personal challenges.
A Christmas angel might just help them find a way to make their dreams and love a reality.
Hilary and Griff’s story is full of small-town charm and a bit of holiday magic. The whole mysterious package plot added an intriguing twist that kept me guessing.
I loved how their past connection plays into the story and it made their relationship feel even more meaningful.
3. A Holly Jilly Christmas by Emma St. Clair
Jillian works at a film studio and has a crush on Case, a grumpy executive. They’re scouting Sheet Cake, Texas, as a filming location, but Jillian is determined to keep things professional and avoid romance.
However, as Case starts showing his more charming side, Jillian’s crush deepens. She’s also concerned that Case might be planning to steal credit for her idea and is hiding something.
As she grapples with her feelings and career ambitions, she must decide whether to trust Case and what it means for her future.
Jillian’s crush on Case and their banter was so fun to follow, especially as she tries to keep things professional.
The small-town Texas setting added a lot of charm, and I loved how the story balances romance with Jillian’s career ambitions.
There’s a bit of tension as she worries about Case’s intentions, but if you’re into sweet, clean romances with a hint of career drama, this one’s a perfect pick.
Also See: 20 Must-Read Sweet & Clean Christmas Romance Books To Check Out
Best Lesbian Romance Christmas Novellas To Add To Your TBR
1. Mangos and Mistletoe by Adriana Herrera
Kiskeya Burgos, a pastry chef from the Dominican Republic, is determined to win the Holiday Baking Challenge in Scotland to prove herself in the culinary world.
She’s focused on the competition, but struggles to ignore her infuriatingly attractive teammate.
Sully Morales, a home cook and caregiver who is rediscovering her passion for baking, is also aiming to win.
She needs to convince her grumpy partner that they can work well together, both professionally and personally, despite an unexpected betrayal that threatens their chances.
This novella was such a treat! The dynamic between Kiskeya and Sully is electric—they start off as rivals but the way their relationship develops is so satisfying.
I loved the cultural elements that were woven into the story as well, as it made the story all the more and layered.
If you’re looking for a spicy, festive lesbian romance with a lot of heart, this one’s definitely worth reading and you won’t regret the time spent.
2. Silent Night by Lily Seabrooke
Brooke Carston, a country-pop singer, returns to her small town for Christmas and reconnects with her old best friend, Nicole Livingston.
Nicole is happy in Mountain Crossing but is hesitant to get close because people always leave.
The town wants Brooke and Nicole to get together, and they struggle with their feelings amid holiday cheer and meddling family.
Brooke and Nicole’s friends-to-lovers story is full of warmth and holiday cheer and the chemistry between the two leads is undeniable.
I loved how their relationship developed so naturally, with just the right amount of tension and holiday magic.
3. Twist of the Magi by Caren J. Werlinger
Penny Havers is having a tough Christmas—she won’t be with her family, hasn’t had a girlfriend in ages, and can’t get her stories published.
When two new women start working at her shop, Penny hopes her luck will improve. However, she discovers that Christmas magic can lead to unexpected outcomes.
I was completely charmed by this novella. Penny’s story is one of those quiet, subtle romances that just sneak up on you.
The small-town setting, the holiday season, and the magical way everything comes together make this a truly special read.
Penny’s struggle with her writing career and her longing for connection felt so real, and I loved how the new people in her life brought unexpected changes.
The magic of Christmas is really at the heart of this story, so it’s the perfect pick if you want something a bit reflective and warm.
4. When You Least Expect It by Haley Cass
Caroline Parker is determined to become Boston’s top divorce attorney by thirty-five, but she’s given up on love after a series of bad Christmas breakups.
When she meets Hannah Dalton, who is stunning but married to her rival, she doesn’t expect her luck to change.
However, as Caroline works on Hannah’s divorce case and grows close to Hannah and her daughter, the boundaries between professional and personal start to blur, and Caroline realizes how much she wants them in her life.
Caroline’s determination to stay focused on her career and avoid love made her story so relatable.
But then, as she gets to know Hannah and her daughter, you can really feel her walls start to come down.
The tension between professional boundaries and personal feelings is so well done, and I found myself completely invested in Caroline’s struggle.
The holiday setting adds an extra layer of warmth to their budding romance and if you’re into stories where characters find love when they’re least expecting it, this one’s definitely worth your time.
5. The Emergency Claus by Robin Roseau
After Santa Claus breaks his leg during reindeer games, his daughter, Tabitha, must take over delivering Christmas presents.
Despite her disinterest in the family business and preference for running her own consulting firm in Chicago, she steps up.
Tabitha also isn’t keen on marrying to continue the Santa legacy, especially when she finds women more intriguing.
Things get complicated when Allison discovers Tabitha in her role as Santa.
This novella was such a fun and unique twist on the Santa story. Tabitha stepping into her father’s boots (literally) made for some really funny and heartwarming moments.
Her reluctance to take over the family business, combined with her journey of self-discovery, made this a really engaging read.
The story also touches on her personal struggles with love and identity, which added depth to the lighthearted premise.
If you’re looking for a holiday story with a modern twist on tradition and a dash of humor, this one’s a great choice.
List of the Best Spicy Christmas Romance Novellas to Check Out
1. Share Me by Olivia Cunning
After a benefit concert, Lindsey wants to thank her favorite band, Sole Regret, for their generosity.
Despite following their tour bus through a blizzard, she ends up spending a snowy night on the bus with two of the rock stars.
Trapped with her best friend, the band, and the bus driver, they find creative ways to keep warm and explore their desires.
Lindsey’s night with the band is full of steamy, intense moments, but there’s also a lot of fun and camaraderie that made the story more than just about the heat.
The way the characters interact and the snowed-in setting created a sense of intimacy that really draws you in.
And I genuinely believe that if you’re in the mood for something spicy and a bit unconventional, this one’s sure to keep you entertained.
2. Dirty Santa by Daphne Loveling
Bailey has been fantasizing about her gruff, tattooed neighbor Gage, who is incredibly attractive.
Despite only watching him from afar, her feelings intensify when she needs his help on Christmas Eve.
As she turns to Gage, she starts dreaming of being on the naughty list, making this a Christmas she won’t forget.
This novella was such a guilty pleasure read. Bailey’s attraction to her rugged, tattooed neighbor Gage is so palpable, and when they finally come together, it’s explosive.
The tension between them builds up beautifully, and the Christmas Eve setting adds an unexpected angle to their steamy encounter.
Gage might seem like a gruff guy at first, but there’s a lot more to him, and that’s what really hooked me.
If you’re looking for a short, sizzling read that’s perfect for a cozy night in, this spicy Christmas novella is definitely it.
3. Merry Inkmas by Talia Hibbert
Cash, the notorious tattoo artist, has been silently admiring the sweet and smart Bailey Cooper for months but believes he’s not good enough for her.
However, when a Christmas miracle makes him Bailey’s boss, he finds himself drawn into her life.
Despite Cash’s brooding nature and initial distance, he helps Bailey with her plumbing, supports the homeless, and offers her a place to stay for Christmas.
As Bailey gets to know Cash and his struggles, she realizes it might be time to give in to her growing feelings.
This novella had me hooked from the start. Cash is such a complex character—tough on the outside but with so much going on beneath the surface.
His interactions with Bailey are both sweet and intense, and I loved seeing their relationship develop.
The way the characters help each other grow makes it all feel so rewarding, so if you’re into stories with a mix of steam, heart, and a bit of holiday magic, this one’s a great pick.
4. The Naughty List by Ellie Mae MacGregor
On Christmas Eve, while delivering presents, Santa receives a gift of his own in the form of Nikolai, a charming silver fox.
Kate, unsure if Nikolai is the real Santa, finds herself intrigued by him and starts believing in Christmas miracles.
This light, steamy holiday romance is a 15,000-word story with a guaranteed happy ending.
This novella was such a playful, quick read. The idea of Santa getting a gift of his own in the form of a silver fox is just so much fun.
Nikolai’s charm is irresistible, and the chemistry between him and Kate adds a lot of spice to the story.
It’s a short, light-hearted romp that’s perfect for when you want something festive and a little bit naughty.
5. All They Want for Christmas by Andie J. Christopher
Francesca Riley plans to go home for Christmas with her fiancé but gets dumped just two nights before her trip.
The breakup, which happens in front of her ex-boyfriend Cary and his intriguing friend, leaves her devastated.
When a blizzard traps the three of them in Cary’s townhouse, their one night of passion leads to deeper feelings. As the snow melts, they face the possibility that leaving might not be so easy.
This novella really surprised me with how much depth it packed into a short story.
Francesca’s situation, getting dumped right before Christmas, had me feeling for her right away.
But then the story takes a turn when she ends up snowed in with her ex-boyfriend and his intriguing friend.
The dynamic between the three of them is intense and filled with chemistry and I was literally unable to it put it down.
If you’re into stories with a bit of drama and a lot of heat, this one’s definitely worth checking out.
Read More: 20+ Addictive YA Romance Books That’ll Make You Fall In Love
Most Romantic Small Town Christmas Novellas You Can’t Miss
1. A Perfect Holiday Fling by Farrah Rochon
Veterinarian Callie Webber is struggling to get into the holiday spirit after her public breakup and the constant attempts by her small-town community to set her up with someone.
Fed up, she considers moving to the city but decides to indulge in a Christmas fling with the town’s attractive newcomer.
Navy pilot Stefan Sutherland, who ends up in Maplesville while caring for his nephew, rescues a stray cat and meets Callie.
Though he hadn’t planned on a relationship, he’s tempted to enjoy a holiday fling with her while he’s in town.
This novella was exactly what I needed—a feel-good holiday romance with just the right amount of spice.
Callie’s hesitance to get into the holiday spirit felt so relatable, especially after her public breakup. But when Stefan comes into the picture, things start to get interesting.
Their chemistry is instant, and watching them navigate their feelings in the small-town setting was so satisfying.
The holiday fling aspect keeps things light, but there’s definitely a deeper connection between them that makes you root for a happily ever after.
2. The Santa Suit by Mary Kay Andrews
After her divorce, Ivy Perkins buys an old farmhouse called the Four Roses, expecting a fresh start but overwhelmed by the amount of work needed.
While sorting through the clutter, she discovers a decades-old Santa suit with a note from a little girl wishing for her father to return from the war. Ivy sets out to uncover the story behind the note and the Rose family’s past.
Her quest draws her into the community, and amid the magic of Christmas, she finds a welcoming town, a reunited family, and possibly a second chance at love.
This small town Christmas novella had such a charming, nostalgic vibe.
Ivy’s journey to rebuild her life after her divorce was really touching, and I loved how the discovery of the old Santa suit led her on a path to uncover a decades-old mystery.
The story is full of heart and holiday spirit, with a great mix of romance and community and if you’re in the mood for something cozy and heartwarming with a bit of intrigue, this one’s a perfect holiday read.
3. Maybe this Christmas by Susannah Nix
Best friends Alexandra and Lucas share a first kiss on Christmas night their senior year, dreaming of a bright future.
After high school, Alex heads to college while Lucas stays in their small beach town to work with his dad.
Over time, their lives diverge, and Lucas decides to let Alex go. However, every Christmas, Alex returns home, and fate brings them together to reconnect on the anniversary of their first kiss.
As they meet each year, they wonder if one day they might rekindle their romance for good.
The idea of Alex and Lucas reconnecting every Christmas after their first kiss in high school had me hooked from the start.
The way their relationship evolves over the years, as they both go through different life stages, felt so real and relatable.
There’s something really special about how fate keeps bringing them back together each Christmas and the emotional payoff at the end made the whole journey worth it.
How many of these Christmas romance novellas will you read? Will you add any of them to your TBR? Do you have a new favorite? Let me know in the comment section!
And, don’t forget to check out the related posts to get even more amazing holiday book recommendations that will keep you busy all through the festive period.
