Tanya Wilde’s Three Kisses Before Christmas is a delightful historical romance that captures the essence of love, longing, and the magic of the holiday season. Set against the backdrop of a charming English countryside, the novel weaves a tale of unrequited love, familial bonds, and the transformative power of Christmas miracles. Wilde’s storytelling prowess shines through in this engaging narrative, making it a must-read for fans of the genre.

At the heart of the story is Wolfstan Robert Ward, the Earl of Wicke and Selborne, a character whose depth and complexity are skillfully unraveled as the plot progresses. From the outset, Wolfstan is portrayed as a man of honor and integrity, traits that are immediately evident when he rescues Rebecca, his best friend’s sister, from a bully during their youth. This act of chivalry sets the stage for a lifelong affection that Wolfstan harbors for Rebecca, an affection that is both poignant and bittersweet given her feelings for another man—his cousin.

Rebecca, on the other hand, is a character who embodies both strength and vulnerability. Her love for Wolfstan’s cousin adds a layer of tension and conflict to the narrative, as readers are drawn into her internal struggle between loyalty and the stirrings of her heart. Wilde does an excellent job of developing Rebecca’s character, allowing her to evolve from a young girl with a crush into a woman who must confront her true feelings and desires.

The theme of unrequited love is central to the novel, and Wilde explores it with sensitivity and nuance. Wolfstan’s unwavering devotion to Rebecca is both heartwarming and heartrending, as he grapples with the reality of loving someone who seems out of reach. This theme is further enriched by the setting of the story during the Christmas season, a time traditionally associated with hope and new beginnings. The juxtaposition of Wolfstan’s internal turmoil with the festive cheer of Christmas creates a compelling contrast that keeps readers invested in the outcome of his romantic pursuit.

Wilde’s use of the Christmas setting is not merely decorative but integral to the narrative’s progression. The holiday season serves as a catalyst for change, prompting characters to reflect on their lives and make decisions that will alter their futures. The idea of Christmas as a time for miracles is woven throughout the story, providing a sense of anticipation and wonder that is both comforting and exhilarating. This theme is reminiscent of other works in the genre, such as Lisa Kleypas’s A Wallflower Christmas, where the holiday season acts as a backdrop for transformative love stories.

Character development is one of the novel’s strongest aspects. Wilde takes care to flesh out her characters, giving them distinct personalities and motivations that drive the plot forward. Wolfstan’s journey from a lovesick youth to a determined suitor is particularly well-crafted, as he employs every trick in the book to win Rebecca’s heart. His growth is mirrored by Rebecca’s own evolution, as she learns to listen to her heart and embrace the possibility of a future with Wolfstan.

The supporting characters also add depth to the story, providing both comic relief and additional layers of conflict. Wolfstan’s cousin, the object of Rebecca’s initial affection, is portrayed with enough charm and charisma to make Rebecca’s dilemma believable, yet he lacks the depth and sincerity that make Wolfstan a truly compelling hero. This contrast serves to highlight the qualities that make Wolfstan the ideal match for Rebecca, reinforcing the novel’s central theme of finding true love in unexpected places.

Wilde’s writing style is both elegant and accessible, with a keen attention to detail that brings the historical setting to life. Her descriptions of the English countryside, the festive decorations, and the warmth of family gatherings create a vivid and immersive reading experience. The dialogue is sharp and witty, capturing the nuances of Regency-era speech while remaining relatable to modern readers.

In comparison to other historical romances, Three Kisses Before Christmas stands out for its emotional depth and the authenticity of its characters. While it shares thematic similarities with works by authors like Julia Quinn and Mary Balogh, Wilde’s novel offers a unique perspective on the complexities of love and the power of the holiday season to bring people together.

Overall, Three Kisses Before Christmas is a beautifully crafted romance that will resonate with readers long after the final page is turned. Its exploration of love, sacrifice, and the magic of Christmas is both timeless and timely, making it a perfect addition to any holiday reading list. Tanya Wilde has delivered a story that is as enchanting as it is heartfelt, a testament to the enduring appeal of historical romance.