All I want for Christmas (Karen Swan)

Karen Swan’s Christmas novels are always a treat and this one certainly is.

The story is very original and I really appreciated how it sets itself apart from the more classical Christmas stories. First, it is set in Copenhagen and we can enjoy the atmosphere there at Christmas, discover what people like to do and feel the contrast of cold and cosy, the perfect atmosphere for a Christmas novel.

Then, the plot develops around the research which the main character, Darcy, has to do to find out who is the mysterious woman painted at the back of a painting by a famous Danish painter. We follow her research and how she discovers not only who the woman is, but also a lot about her life.

The characters are well portrayed and their relationships develop in an interesting way all along the story. Darcy and Freya are lovely and friendly. Otto and Viggo are authoritative, slightly intimidating and protective. And for course, there are the boyfriends, with Max playing the central role, cold, calculating but full of surprises.

So, make yourself a nice cup of tea, put on your nice cosy woolly sweater and enjoy this book. A very original and enjoyable Christmas read.