Review Detail

If you’ve ever wished you could step back into the Belladonna world to spend a little more time with its characters, Holly is precisely that kind of gift. This festive novella by Adalyn Grace wraps gothic fantasy, gentle mystery, and holiday charm into a cozy seasonal read that feels like coming home.

A Gothic Christmas at Wisteria Gardens

Set during Christmastime, Holly returns readers to Wisteria Gardens, where peace and celebration are supposed to reign. Of course, this being the Belladonna universe, things don’t stay calm for long. Restless spirits begin haunting the estate, threatening to turn holiday cheer into something far more sinister. What follows is a light mystery threaded with magic, ghostly tension, and the warmth of found family.

Character-Driven and Comforting

Rather than pushing the series forward in significant, dramatic ways, Holly focuses on what fans love most: character interactions. Seeing familiar faces together again—sharing banter, quiet moments, and affection—gives the novella its emotional heart. Death’s presence is as compelling as ever, and the relationships feel lived-in and genuine. This is a story that prioritizes atmosphere and connection over high-stakes plotting.

Cozy Vibes with a Dark Edge

What makes Holly shine is its balance. The gothic elements never entirely disappear—there are ghosts, unease, and lingering shadows—but candlelight, winter traditions, and the joy of celebration soften them. The result is a cozy fantasy that still feels true to the Belladonna tone. It’s eerie enough to be intriguing, yet comforting enough to read curled up with a blanket.

A Novella That Knows What It Is

Because Holly is a novella, the plot is intentionally simple. Readers looking for major revelations or long-term consequences may come away wanting more. However, as a seasonal interlude, it succeeds beautifully. This is a story meant to be savored, not rushed—a quiet pause between heavier moments in the series.

Final Thoughts

Holly is a charming, atmospheric addition to the Belladonna world that feels like a holiday bonus for fans. It doesn’t aim to reinvent the series, but instead offers a cozy, character-focused glimpse of life after chaos. Perfect for winter reading, this novella is best enjoyed as a festive treat—sweet, spooky, and full of heart.

Fans of the Belladonna series, cozy gothic fantasy lovers, and readers who enjoy holiday stories with a supernatural twist will want just one more story.