Beyond the Mistletoe: A Holiday Romance Tackles Trauma & Finds Joy in Unexpected Places

By Ronald King

November 11, 2025

As the scent of pine needles and gingerbread fills the air, the holiday romance market is bracing for its annual surge. But this year, a new title is hoping to stand out from the sea of cozy tales – and it's doing so by tackling unexpectedly complex themes. Jenny Alexandra’s debut novel, Santa Cutie, released today, promises a steamy escape – but with a surprisingly sensitive core, exploring trauma, healing, and the power of intergenerational connection.

Santa Cutie centers around a heroine escaping a restrictive and isolating environment – a “holiday-hating cult,” as described by the authors – and finding solace and love in the most unexpected of places: a nursing home Christmas pageant. While the premise might seem lighthearted, it’s underpinned by explorations of trauma and recovery, a trend gaining traction within the romance genre.

A Shift in the ‘Cozy’ Landscape

For years, holiday romance has been synonymous with ‘comfort’ and ‘escapism.’ But readers are increasingly seeking narratives that offer more depth and address real-world issues. “There’s a growing appetite for stories that don’t shy away from complexity,” notes a source familiar with the romance publishing industry. “Readers still want the emotional connection, the happily-ever-after, but they also want characters who feel authentic and struggles that resonate.”

This shift is reflected in the rising popularity of “spicy romance” – a subgenre known for its explicit content and emotionally intense plots. While Santa Cutie isn’t purely a spicy romance, it certainly incorporates elements of that intensity, alongside the sensitive exploration of trauma.

Navigating Sensitive Themes Responsibly

The inclusion of trauma within the romance genre isn’t without its challenges. Authors must navigate these sensitive topics with nuance and respect, avoiding exploitation or harmful tropes. Santa Cutie appears to be approaching this with intentionality. “The focus isn’t on the trauma itself, but on the healing journey,” explains a member of an online book community specializing in trauma-informed reading. “It’s about resilience, finding support, and reclaiming agency.”

The authors' choice to set the story within a nursing home is particularly noteworthy. While often overlooked in fiction, elderly characters are frequently depicted stereotypically. Santa Cutie provides an opportunity to challenge those perceptions and showcase the wisdom, vitality, and emotional complexity of older adults.

Intergenerational Connection: A Powerful Backdrop

The novel’s setting isn’t merely a backdrop, but an integral part of the story’s emotional core. Experts in gerontology emphasize the profound benefits of intergenerational programs, noting that they can combat loneliness, improve mental health, and foster a sense of community for seniors. “There’s a real need for stories that portray positive relationships between different generations,” says a researcher specializing in aging. “It challenges ageism and reminds us that we all have something to learn from each other.”

Within the context of Santa Cutie, the interactions between the protagonist and the nursing home residents offer a unique opportunity for healing and growth. The shared joy of the Christmas pageant, the stories and wisdom of the residents, and the sense of belonging all contribute to the protagonist’s journey of recovery.

A Growing Trend?

Santa Cutie is part of a broader trend towards more nuanced and complex storytelling within the romance genre. While “comfort” and “escapism” will always be core appeals, readers are increasingly seeking narratives that address real-world issues and offer authentic emotional resonance.

“There’s a demand for stories that don’t shy away from difficult topics, but that still offer hope and joy,” says a publishing industry analyst. “Readers want to feel seen, understood, and empowered. And that’s what these types of stories can deliver.”

The authors' decision to tackle trauma and explore intergenerational connection within a holiday romance is a bold move. It’s a reminder that even the most comforting genres can be a space for meaningful exploration and social commentary.

Santa Cutie is available now in paperback and ebook formats. Whether it will spark a broader trend within the romance genre remains to be seen, but it’s certainly a title that’s challenging expectations and offering readers a fresh perspective on the cozy holiday tale.

About the Author: Ronald King is a frequent contributor to [Publication Name] covering trends in popular fiction and the publishing industry.