Sunday, September 20, 2026

Book Review: Twelve Days and Twelfth Night by Sarah Sundin

About the Book:



She needs a star for her wartime Christmas show. He needs a second chance. Together they stage a production neither expected.

World War II USO director Maggie Oliver faces an impossible task: orchestrate a Christmas show in San Diego for thousands of sailors, with dwindling resources and a quickly approaching deadline. To star in the show, she enlists Prescott Duke, a former Hollywood heartthrob whose career ended in flames after an accident left him scarred and adrift. He eagerly accepts Maggie's invitation and seizes the chance to reclaim what war has stolen from him.

Inspired by Shakespeare's Twelfth Night and "The Twelve Days of Christmas," Maggie and Prescott craft a show at a Shakespearean theater that promises to lift spirits. But as rehearsals progress, Maggie discovers a secret that could transform her production into something unforgettable. With opening night approaching and unexpected feelings complicating everything, Maggie must decide how far she'll go to rewrite not just her show but the outcome for everyone involved.

My Thoughts:


In Twelve Days and Twelfth Night, Sarah Sundin created a story that celebrated both Christmastime nostalgia and new beginnings.

For the Christmas element, the story had ample references to the traditional Christmas song, The Twelve Days of Christmas, and was set in the late-fall-to-early-Christmas period. Holiday cheer and festivities amid a season of war lightened the story for both the servicemen, the main characters, and the reader.

Regarding the theme of new beginnings, Prescott Duke’s journey toward writing a new story for himself was the depth that this story needed. His burns and scars have damaged far more than the physical. Most of my favorite quotes came from his dealing with self-image and his future.

Twelve Days and Twelfth Night will likely appeal to readers who have enjoyed Sarah Sundin’s other works. It would be a fun selection for a book club Christmas party as the novella held depth without feeling heavy (good for discussion) and Christmastime elements that could be incorporated into games or music. Four stars!




Disclosure of Material Connection: I received a copy of this book from the author or publisher. My review reflects my honest opinion.

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