After selling his business, Lars Jóhannsson is feeling like a character in a book awaiting his next plot twist! A job at Bay Books would give him the space he needs to contemplate his next move. He has fond memories of the bookshop on Castle Street, but returning there would mean confronting a painful past he's been avoiding. It would also mean working with Lily and he's fairly sure he's the one person she'd never want to see again.

When Lily spots Lars's job application, she's torn. Lars could be the perfect fit for Bay Books, but the boy she thought she knew rejected her friendship many years ago and the hurt still lingers. With time ticking, Lily has no option but to take a chance on Lars, hoping his unexpected application turns out to be for the best.

Working together, Lily discovers a vulnerability that Lars has kept hidden away, along with a few surprising secrets. As the Christmas season sprinkles its magic, Lily discovers the warmth of renewed friendship and the joy of heartwarming traditions from Lars's Icelandic roots.

And perhaps, surrounded by the quiet magic of the season and the soft glow of festive lights, there's the possibility of finding a love as enchanting as the Northern Lights on a winter's night.

Praise for Jessica Redland:

'Jessica Redland writes from the heart, with heart, about heart' Nicola May

'I loved my trip to Hedgehog Hollow. An emotional read, full of twists and turns' Heidi Swain

'There is so much to make you smile in Jessica's stories and they are always uplifting reads, which will make you really glad you decided to pick up a copy.' Jo Bartlett

'An emotional, romantic and ultimately uplifting read. Jessica always touches my heart with her sensitive handling of difficult subjects.' Sarah Bennett

'A beautifully written series that offers the ultimate in heartwarming escapism.' Samantha Tonge

'A warm hug of a book. I never wanted to leave Hedgehog Hollow. Very highly recommended.' Della Galton

'Redland takes you on a heart-warming ride that navigates broken hearts and painful secrets, but ultimately restores your faith in the power of love. I absolutely adored it.' Jenni Keer

'I fell in love with this story from page one.' Helen Rolfe

'A tender love story, full of sweet touches and beautiful characters.' Beth Moran

'A warm-hearted and beautiful book. Jessica Redland doesn't shy away from the fact that life can be very difficult, but she reminds us that we all can find love, hope and joy again.' Sian O'Gorman

'Achingly poignant, yet full of hope - You will fall in love with this beautiful Christmas story' Sandy Barker

'A heartwarming story of true friendship, love and romance set in the gorgeous backdrop of the Lakes. A cosy hug of a read that left me feeling warm inside.' Julie Caplin

'A heartwarming story set in a beautiful location... Love, friendship and the power of letting go are all covered in this gorgeous, beautifully written story.' Katie Ginger * 'I enjoyed a wonderful escape to the Lake District in this tale of loss, love and rediscovery.' *Gillian Harvey

'An emotional but uplifting page turner. The Secret to Happiness is a beautiful story of friendship and love' Fay Keenan