Karen Swan's All I Want for Christmas is a delightful holiday romance that captures the enchanting spirit of Copenhagen during the festive season. The novel is a blend of romance, mystery, and self-discovery, set against the backdrop of a city that seems to come alive with Christmas magic. Swan's ability to weave together these elements makes for a compelling read that is both heartwarming and intriguing.

The protagonist, Darcy Cotterell, is a character many readers will find relatable. Newly single and feeling anything but festive, Darcy plans to spend her Christmas immersed in her PhD work. Her reluctance to engage with the holiday season is a sentiment that resonates with anyone who has ever felt out of sync with the world around them during what is supposed to be the most wonderful time of the year. Swan does an excellent job of portraying Darcy's internal struggle, making her journey towards embracing love and the festive spirit all the more rewarding.

Darcy's best friend, Freja, plays a pivotal role in the narrative. Her insistence that Darcy sign up for an upmarket dating site introduces a light-hearted and humorous element to the story. Freja's determination to ensure Darcy isn't lonely is a testament to the power of friendship, a theme that runs throughout the novel. The dating site subplot adds an element of modernity to the story, reflecting the contemporary ways in which people seek connections in today's digital age.

The introduction of Max Lorensen, the sexy and arrogant lawyer, adds a layer of complexity to the narrative. Max is not just a potential romantic interest but also a key figure in the art mystery that Darcy is tasked with solving. The chemistry between Darcy and Max is palpable from their first encounter, and Swan skillfully navigates their evolving relationship. Max's character is well-developed, and his initial portrayal as a 'player' is gradually peeled back to reveal a more nuanced individual. This character development is one of the novel's strengths, as it challenges initial perceptions and highlights the importance of looking beyond first impressions.

The art mystery subplot is a fascinating addition to the story. The discovery of an unknown portrait by Denmark's greatest painter provides a captivating puzzle for Darcy to solve. This element of the novel not only adds intrigue but also serves as a metaphor for Darcy's own journey of self-discovery. As she delves deeper into the mystery, she uncovers truths about herself and her desires, mirroring the uncovering of the hidden portrait. Swan's ability to intertwine these narratives is a testament to her skill as a storyteller.

One of the standout features of All I Want for Christmas is its setting. Swan's depiction of Copenhagen during Christmas is nothing short of magical. The charming Christmas markets, carol singing on the canals, and ice skating in the parks create a vivid backdrop that enhances the story's festive atmosphere. The city's cozy cafes and early snow add to the sense of warmth and comfort that permeates the novel. Swan's descriptive prose brings Copenhagen to life, making it almost a character in its own right.

In terms of themes, the novel explores the idea of finding love and connection in unexpected places. Darcy's journey is one of opening herself up to new experiences and embracing the possibilities that life presents. The story also touches on the importance of friendship and the role it plays in helping us navigate life's challenges. Freja's unwavering support for Darcy is a reminder of the strength that comes from having a solid support system.

Comparatively, All I Want for Christmas shares similarities with other holiday romances, such as those by authors like Jenny Colgan and Debbie Macomber. However, Swan's novel stands out due to its unique blend of romance and mystery, as well as its richly detailed setting. The art mystery subplot adds depth to the story, setting it apart from more traditional holiday romances that focus solely on romantic relationships.

Overall, All I Want for Christmas is a charming and engaging read that will appeal to fans of holiday romances and mysteries alike. Swan's ability to create relatable characters, combined with her vivid depiction of Copenhagen, makes this novel a standout addition to the genre. It's a story that reminds us of the magic of the holiday season and the unexpected ways in which love can find us. Whether you're a fan of romance, mystery, or simply looking for a heartwarming holiday read, this book is sure to delight.