From crying into Santa’s beard at Macy’s department store, to working the bar at a historic seaside inn thousands of miles away, Ellie de Vere has been through it all this Christmas season…
When Ellie trades her hectic New York life for the twinkling lights and snow-dusted charm of her childhood village of St Tilda, it’s only to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cozy family inn.
But all the festive holly, crackling fires and mulled cider in the world can’t prepare Ellie for who she finds waiting for her back home. Her ex best friend Liam is also in town for the holidays… and they haven’t seen each other in twenty years. He’s now a devastatingly handsome single father with the same Irish lilt that always made her breath catch. If only he hadn’t broken her heart irreparably all those years ago…
Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night in St Tilda? And is he even the same man she used to know? As Christmas approaches and old feelings refuse to stay buried, will Ellie finally find the courage to rewrite her future?
About The Author
My Review
This is a heartwarming festive tale brimming with charm, emotion, and a touch of Irish magic. It tells the story of Ellie, a woman who swapped her peaceful Irish roots for the fast-paced life of New York. When she returns to her hometown of St. Tilda to care for her ailing mother, she’s confronted by the memories—and people—she thought she’d left behind.
What begins as an unwelcome homecoming slowly turns into a healing journey filled with rediscovery, forgiveness, and love. Johnson beautifully captures the spirit of Christmas—the glow of fairy lights, the comfort of community, and the courage it takes to open one’s heart again. Ellie’s transformation feels tender and authentic, while the romance that blooms along the way adds warmth without overshadowing her personal growth.
With her trademark humor, rich emotional depth, and vivid sense of place, Johnson crafts a cozy, uplifting read. Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is a beautifully written reminder that sometimes, the most meaningful gifts are second chances and the rediscovery of home.
My Rating
Link To Purchase
My Sanctuary 