Kiss Me At Christmas | By Jenny Bayliss

My thoughts

Narrative and Plot

Kiss Me at Christmas is told from the protagonist Harriet’s point of view. Harriet, a pastoral care worker at her school, finds herself taking the fall for the kids under her care. This leads her to get involved in reviving an old, run-down Winter Theatre. Harriet is fiercely loyal, caring, and deeply committed to showing up for others. However, when it comes to taking care of herself, she holds herself to very different—often lower—standards.

More than a romance, this is the journey of a woman in her forties discovering self-love. The pacing, the cast, and the plot all come together to create something magical. It feels like a warm hug in book form—perfect for the holiday season. While I wouldn’t call it a retelling of A Christmas Carol, the story certainly draws parallels and carries a strong Dickensian theme.

Characters and Conflicts

One of my favorite aspects of the book is how it highlights the spirit of the Christmas season—sometimes leaning heavily into altruism. But it’s the holidays, and if there’s ever a time for generous, selfless spirits, this is it.

The “Famous Five” made their mark right from the first scene and had their own heartwarming arcs. Their presence added depth to the narrative and underscored the theme of community.

There are quite a few moving parts in the story, but everything ties together beautifully, showcasing the power of a supportive community and what can be achieved when people come together.

The romance is subtle. If I had to nitpick, I’d say I would’ve liked a few chapters from James’ point of view. He, too, has his own struggles and growth, which could’ve added an extra layer to the story. That said, this is ultimately Harriet’s journey, and I was satisfied with how it played out.

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a story about community, people coming together, and pulling off a heartwarming production of A Christmas Carol, this is a must-read. What I loved most was the idea that the holidays aren’t just about being kind to others—they’re also about being kind to ourselves.

We often forget the importance of self-care, and this book beautifully reminds us of it. The epilogue, in particular, drove home the themes of self-love and self-compassion. It’s truly Kiss “Me” at Christmas.

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