Where to Start Reading Christina Jones
Christina Jones is celebrated for her distinctively British, lighthearted romantic comedies filled with close-knit communities, strong-willed heroines, and a touch of magic. Because her books are often set in overlapping, quirky English villages, deciding where to start can feel like sorting through a chest of charms. Fortunately, her work is divided into a few key series and a collection of standalones that can be enjoyed in a couple of different ways.
For readers who love equine drama, sports romance, and classic country settings, the best place to start is the Milton St John Trilogy, beginning with Going the Distance (or its prequel novella). If you prefer cozy village settings with a dash of magical realism, astrology, and mystical elements, dive straight into the Mad Villages (Fiddlesticks) Series, starting with Hubble Bubble.
The Milton St John Trilogy
Set in a vibrant, horse-racing community, this trilogy combines sporting stakes with romantic tension. It features gutsy female protagonists who work within the stables and navigate high-stakes rivalries.
- Book 0.5: Dancing in the Moonlight (1999) – Originally published as a standalone quick-read, this novella functions as a prequel. It introduces readers to the Victoriana Grange stables and the romantic pairing of jockey Rosa Brennan and Kit Pedersen.
- Book 1: Going the Distance (1995/1997) – The official start to the trilogy. This debut novel was selected as a WH Smith Fresh Talent pick and establishes the horse-racing backdrop of Milton St John.
- Book 2: Running the Risk (1997) – Continues the romantic and professional drama in the racing village, focusing on secondary characters introduced in the first book.
- Book 3: Jumping to Conclusions (1999) – The concluding chapter of the trilogy, resolving the lingering personal and professional rivalries of the local stables.
The Mad Villages (Fiddlesticks) Series
The Mad Villages series (often referred to by fans as the Hubble Bubble or Fiddlesticks series) is where Christina Jones infuses her romance with delightful whimsy, spell-casting, and community charm. Although each book highlights a different couple, the village recurring characters tie the books together, making publication order the recommended path.
- Hubble Bubble (2004) – Introduces the enchanting secrets of Fiddlesticks village, where a young woman discovers local magic, romance, and eccentricity.
- Seeing Stars (2005) – A follow-up that incorporates themes of astrology, fate, and village match-making.
- Love Potions (2006) – This fan-favorite novel won the Pure Passion Award in 2008 and details the humorous chaos of modern-day spell-casting and romance.
- Heaven Sent (2007) – Continues the whimsical theme, following characters who navigate love with a lighthearted, mystical twist.
- Happy Birthday (2008) – Centered on protagonist Phoebe Bowler, who attempts to find her perfect match using birthday-themed luck and magic.
The Hazy Hassock Duology
Set in the cozy village of Hazy Hassock, this short series showcases Jones's talent for seasonal romance and festive village gatherings.
- Those Lazy, Hazy, Crazy Days (2015) – A summer-themed romance featuring the quirky residents of the village.
- Mitzi's Midwinter Wedding (2015) – A festive, winter-themed follow-up that wraps up the village's character arcs with a cozy holiday wedding.
The Sandcastle Cottage Series
For readers who enjoy seaside settings, this series is set in the coastal village of Firefly Common, blending coastal charm with family secrets and second-chance romance.
- Christmas at Sandcastle Cottage (2018) – A festive prequel novella introducing the seaside cottage and its history.
- Summer at Sandcastle Cottage (2021) – A full-length novel focusing on renewal, community support, and seaside romance.
- Weddings at Sandcastle Cottage (2026) – The newest installment celebrating love and milestone events in the coastal village.
Standalone Novels and Collaborative Works
Aside from her main series, Christina Jones has written numerous standalone contemporary romances. These books feature similar themes of tight-knit British communities, resilient heroines, and warm humor, meaning they can be read at any point in your reading journey.
- Stealing The Show (1998) – A theatrical romance focused on village amateur dramatics.
- Walking on Air (2000) – A heartwarming story about overcoming obstacles and finding unexpected love.
- The Way to a Woman's Heart (2010) – An acclaimed romance that was shortlisted for the Romantic Novel of 2011.
- Only One Woman (2017) – A unique historical romance co-authored with writer Jane Risdon, set against the backdrop of the 1960s music scene.
What to Know Before You Start
Readers should note that while her series have a recommended reading order due to returning characters, Christina Jones designed almost all of her novels to work as standalones. If you pick up Love Potions before Hubble Bubble, you will still easily follow the plot, though you might miss subtle cameos and the progression of the village's magical lore. Some bibliographies differ slightly on the publication year of Going the Distance (noting either 1995 or 1997), but it remains the definitive starting point for the horse-racing universe. Her short story collections, such as Bucolic Frolics and Happy Ever After (both 2011), offer excellent, quick entries into her signature style of writing.