The Bookish Ashley

The Bright Side of Christmas by Morgan Elizabeth is exactly the kind of warm, cinnamon-scented, twinkly-lights romance you want to curl up with during December. It’s charming, sweet, and full of the small-town magic the author is known for—plus a sunshine/grinch dynamic that delivers plenty of spark.

Wren King is the reliable heart of Holly Ridge—the girl everyone calls for favors, cookies, childcare, and anything in between. This year, as she takes over the town’s decorating committee in honor of her late grandmother, she throws herself into creating the most spectacular Christmas the town has ever seen… even if it means running herself ragged in the process.

Enter Adam Porter: famous songwriter, total holiday cynic, and Wren’s new next-door neighbor. He’s come to Holly Ridge for silence, solitude, and absolutely zero Christmas spirit. But when he announces he won’t be decorating his house—breaking a generations-long town tradition—Wren makes it her personal mission to change his mind, setting off a battle of lights, holiday cheer, and emotional thawing.

What Works Beautifully:

✨ The holiday atmosphere is unbeatable. Morgan Elizabeth paints Holly Ridge with so much charm that it feels like stepping into a Hallmark movie (but with better banter and more depth).

✨ Wren and Adam’s dynamic is fresh and fun. Their opposites-attract chemistry shines, especially as their decorating feud slowly turns into something softer and more intimate.

✨ Emotional undercurrents add heart. Wren’s grief and sense of responsibility give the story weight, while Adam’s creative burnout feels relatable and thoughtfully handled.

✨ A true comfort read. Cozy, romantic, humorous, and heartfelt—everything you want in a holiday love story.

Where It Falls Slightly Short:

There are moments where the pacing feels a bit slow, especially as Wren’s people-pleasing patterns repeat. Some readers may want a deeper exploration into Adam’s backstory or a bit more tension before their relationship turns the corner. But overall, these are small bumps in an otherwise delightful ride.

Final Thoughts:

The Bright Side of Christmas is a warm hug of a book—perfect for readers looking for small-town charm, festive vibes, and a sweet romance with a gentle emotional arc. If you love sunshine/grump pairings, holiday traditions, and stories that remind you to make space for yourself even while giving to others, this one belongs on your December TBR.

A glowing, feel-good 4/5 stars. 🌟🎄