This author is one of my all-time favorite fantasy writers, and she has a true gift for packing rich storytelling into a shorter format. This Christmas novella was no exception. It delivered everything I love in a seasonal fantasy: charming characters, an engaging and clever plot, fairy tale influences, gentle magic woven throughout, a mystery to unravel, a subtle romantic thread, and just the right amount of festive cheer to make it feel perfect for the holidays. I also appreciate that there is no language and no spice. 

Miss Scarlette Rossetti was an absolute delight to follow. She is intelligent, compassionate, and adventurous, with a generous heart that shines in everything she does. I loved how committed she was to spreading kindness, cheer, and connection throughout her village. She felt refreshingly grounded for someone of privilege, preferring to work with mechanics and help out in a toy shop rather than spending her days idly at the estate. Her competitive streak and natural curiosity made her even more endearing, especially her wariness toward the mysterious traveling peddlers.

The holiday atmosphere was wonderfully done, but the goblins truly stole the show. The colorful yet unsettling peddlers had an eerie presence that made every interaction feel dangerous, like making a bargain you might regret. That sense of unease added depth and tension to the story.

The small town setting brought an extra layer of coziness that made this such a comforting seasonal read. The romance was handled with a lovely light touch, unfolding naturally through friendship and shared interests. The Regency-inspired tone paired beautifully with the arrival of a handsome aristocratic visitor who admired Scarlette for her creativity and independence.

While the story is sometimes labeled as steampunk, it felt more like historical fantasy to me. Although it is set in Victorian England and includes clockwork elements, the inventions were simple mechanical creations rather than advanced steam-powered technology. The overall focus remained on magic, craftsmanship, and fairy tale wonder rather than industrial innovation.

This retelling of The Elves and the Shoemaker was thoughtfully paced and never felt rushed or dull. The ending was deeply satisfying, while also introducing the beginnings of the Red Cape Society series in a way that left me eager for more. It gave just enough to spark curiosity without feeling incomplete. I am very much looking forward to continuing with the spinoff series and spending more time with Scarlette and Archie.

This story works perfectly as a starting point and can be enjoyed on its own without prior knowledge of the larger world. I highly recommend it, especially for readers who love cozy historical fantasy with a festive twist.