An Off–Piste Christmas: a laugh-out-loud, cosy Christmas readaf Julie Houston

A festive escape to the Italian Alps—where family secrets thaw hearts and holiday magic works wonders.

The last thing Harriet Westmoreland wants is a frosty Christmas on the dizzying slopes of Cortina d’Ampezzo. While her family and best friend Grace’s clan carve down the chic pistes, Harriet’s stuck in ski school, bruised and humiliated. Longing for mulled wine over moguls, she slips away to explore the cosy refugios of the snow-capped Dolomites—maybe she’ll even glimpse George Clooney, rumoured to be in town.

But a stunning cable car ride reveals a secret that ripples through their group, stirring old tensions and tender truths. Amid twinkling lights and Alpine charm, rifts heal, bonds deepen, and unexpected joys prove this might be their most meaningful Christmas yet.

A heartwarming novella, perfect for fans of cosy, feel-good holiday reads.

Julie lives in Yorkshire, writes bestselling romantic comedies, and teaches part-time. A magistrate for 25 years, she loves books, wine, and sun—hates skiing.