There’s something extra magical about diving into a new holiday romance, and Anne of Avenue A could not have arrived at a better time. I’ll be reading it this weekend to officially kick off my holiday reads, and I already have that happy reader buzz—like stepping into a snow globe version of New York where second chances swirl through the air right along with the snowflakes.
This story blends the timeless emotional pull of Persuasion with the bustle, charm, and chaos of the Big Apple, and it promises that sparkling mix of nostalgia and anticipation that makes holiday romances so addictive.
What It’s About
Eight years ago, Anne Elliot thought she had her future mapped out—and it didn’t include chasing adventure with Freddie Wentworth. She let him go, choosing practicality over passion. Fast forward nearly a decade, and Anne’s carefully planned life hasn’t exactly gone to plan. She’s back home, feeling stuck, and trying to stay positive despite her father’s, well… questionable financial habits.
Freddie, on the other hand, built a whole new life overseas after their breakup, determined to forget the girl who broke his heart. But life loves a dramatic reunion, and suddenly Anne and Freddie are neighbors in New York City. Between a disastrous off-Broadway show, a hilariously messy Thanksgiving, and a cast of nosey neighbors and flirtatious friends, the two keep crossing paths. And with each encounter, old feelings thaw a little more.
It’s a second-chance romance wrapped in holiday warmth, big-city sparkle, and a whole lot of heart.
Why I Think I’ll Love It
According to StoryGraph, Anne of Avenue A hits several of my cozy-season sweet spots:
• Fast-paced
• Lighthearted
• Second-chance romance
• Holiday backdrop
• Big-city charm
It reminds me of the feel-good glow from It’s Different This Time and the comforting holiday warmth of The Secret of Orange Blossom Cake. And with Goodreads and StoryGraph both sitting at a strong 4.2 stars, I’m expecting swoons, witty banter, and the kind of emotional glow that pairs perfectly with twinkle lights and a cup of something warm.
Perfect For Readers Who Want…
• A New York–set holiday romance
• A Persuasion retelling with modern flair
• Cozy vibes without heartbreak-level angst
• A sweet, hopeful story about timing, forgiveness, and falling in love again
QOTD:
When do you like to start your holiday reads? Do you dive in right after Halloween, wait until mid-November, or hold off until the tree goes up?
2 responses to “Holiday Read Spotlight: Anne of Avenue A By Audrey Bellezza & Emily Harding”
I read, whenever I get any time to spare, which unfortunately isn’t much.
This does sound good, Tessa. I read holiday books year round, but dig in to the newly published ones in September and October. I hope this is as good as you are anticipating.