Christmas in Aspen by Anita Hughes is set in lovely Colorado just before Christmas. Editor Caroline Holt was in a funk at work, grieving her mother’s death, and just needed some fresh energy and a change of scenery. After finding a letter at her mother’s cottage in Hudson, she is compelled to travel to Aspen to meet up with the person who wrote the letter. While in Aspen, she finds a way to get inspired again with her work and find yet another new beginning with Max, a whiskey maker who lives in town.

This was a sweet story. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Full of hope and inspiration.

I always get swept away in this author’s books and this one was no different. It is a beautifully written tale of family, friendships and new love, all set in gorgeous Aspen. The descriptions of this story felt so real, it was like being there. The characters were well written and had interesting story lines and the plot kept me interested from the very first page, to the very last. I highly recommend this book.

This is the profit holiday read. If you like Hallmark movies, this is the book for you. Really enjoyed.

Get ready and cozy up for a heartwarming holiday escape! “Christmas in Aspen” by Anita Hughes is a delightful escape into the snowy wonderland of Aspen, where love, mystery, and holiday magic intertwine. Set against the backdrop of majestic mountains and cozy cabins, this novel invites readers to experience the enchantment of the season.

Meet Caroline Holt. She’s an editor with a penchant for romance novels, finds herself unexpectedly spending Christmas in Aspen. Her original plans to be in London for a holiday romance take an unexpected turn when she heads to her late mother's upstate cabin in Hudson. The cabin holds memories of childhood Christmases, but this year, Caroline isn't in the mood for nostalgia. She's determined not to get her heart broken again.

However, fate has other plans. As Caroline explores the snowy landscape, she stumbles upon a mysterious letter addressed to her mother. The sender? A man who claims to have loved her mother for years. Unable to ignore her curiosity, Caroline takes the next flight to Aspen to meet this enigmatic lover. Little does she know that her journey will lead her to unexpected encounters and a chance at love.

The heart of the story lies in the Little Red Mailbox, which becomes a symbol of hope, secrets, and second chances. Caroline's quest to uncover the truth about her mother's past becomes intertwined with her own romantic journey. As she navigates the snow-covered streets, she meets two intriguing men.

Meet James. He’s the man who wrote the letter, and is a charming artist with a passion for capturing the beauty of Aspen on canvas. His vulnerability and devotion to Caroline's mother add depth to the narrative.

Meet Henry. He’s a rugged ski instructor who enters Caroline's life unexpectedly. Their chance meetings spark a connection that defies logic. The more they run into each other, the more she is drawn to him. But can she open her heart again?

Hughes weaves a tale of love, loss, and the magic of the season. Her vivid descriptions transport readers to the snow-kissed streets of Aspen, where twinkling lights adorn cozy cafes, and the scent of pine fills the air. The historical subplot, involving the Eloise author's residency at The Plaza, adds an extra layer of intrigue.

The pacing is perfect, it’s neither rushed nor stagnant. Hughes skillfully balances the romance with moments of introspection, allowing readers to connect with Caroline's emotional journey. The snowy landscapes come alive, and the reader can almost feel the crunch of snow underfoot.

This holiday story captures the essence of the holiday spirit, the warmth of hot cocoa, the joy of snowball fights, and the magic of unexpected love. It's a story that reminds us to embrace second chances, even when they arrive wrapped in mystery.

Why You'll Love It:
- Atmospheric Setting: Hughes's vivid prose transports you to the heart of Aspen, making you crave a snowy escape.
- Heartfelt Romance: The chemistry between Caroline and Henry is palpable, and their interactions are both tender and passionate.
- Intriguing Secrets: The mystery surrounding Caroline's mother's lover keeps you turning the pages.
- Holiday Magic: The Little Red Mailbox adds a touch of enchantment, making this a perfect read for the festive season.

A heartwarming tale, “Christmas in Aspen” will leave you with a smile and a longing for your own snowy adventure. Hughes's storytelling prowess shines, making this novel a five-star treat for us romance enthusiasts and holiday lovers alike.

Thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for a temporary e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.

Christmas in Aspen is a heartwarming story of Christmas magic, mystery and romance. Caroline Holt, a book editor, is on her way to her late mother’s cabin in Hudson to spend the holidays. Caroline is looking to get back her spark after feeling burnout from her job and grieving her mother.

Caroline finds a letter in the cabin addressed to her mother from Santa’s Little Red Mailbox, in Aspen, Colorado. The man declares his love for her mother requesting they meet in front of the Little Red Mailbox on New Year’s Eve . So begins Caroline’s journey as she takes the next flight to Aspen to meet this mysterious lover of her mother’s.

The beauty of Aspen shines as complications arise when Caroline meets another man who challenges her thoughts on love and secrets are revealed about her past.


A perfect holiday read about love and new beginnings!


Thank you to Netgalley, the author and publisher for the ARC I received in exchange for my honest opinion.

The love story is used as a vehicle to help these characters come face-to-face with the stories they have and the roles they play in their own lives. And I loved every single second of reading it.

Christmas in Aspen by Anita Hughes is the story of Caroline Holt, a book editor whose mother had recently passed away. She and her sister arrive at their family cabin for Christmas but it isn't the same without their mother. Going through some mail, Caroline discovers a letter from a man who her mother had met at a publishers conference in Aspen the previous summer, which asks her to meet him on New Years Eve at a red Santa mailbox in Aspen. Not wanting him to be stood up, she flies to Aspen to meet him and tell him about her mother. In the meantime, she meets an attractive man who she could give her heart to if she didn't have so many rules about dating to protect herself. There is also a side story about her sister and her wedding which helps move the book along. Over all it's a good novel, moves along well and will be a fun Christmas read. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for an ARC of this novel in exchange for my honest review.

This talented author has written a page turner. I could not stop reading. The characters are likable and keep the story moving. The foreshadowing made it easier to guess what might happen. The secrets…family and friends…loved ones…the past meets the present…a mother who raised her children in a loving way. She left memories they would cherish forever. There were also things she did not tell them. Aspen at Christmas…a beautiful setting…the letters…this is a great story. It would make a fantastic movie. I look forward to more books by this author. I would give this book a five plus. Thanks Netgalley.

Heartwarming story. Love that this is a holiday story. Don’t normally read books like this but so glad I did.

Christmas in Aspen by Anita Hughes is a heartwarming holiday tale that combines romance, mystery, and self discovery. Caroline Holt, an editor seeking a break from her busy life and recent heartbreak, discovers a letter from a mysterious admirer of her late mother, leading her on a journey to Colorado. As Caroline delves into her mother's past, she finds herself drawn to another man in town, sparking unexpected feelings and revelations. Hughes weaves a captivating story of love and new beginnings, making this book a perfect festive read for the holiday season!