If there’s one book that feels perfectly suited to Princess Catherine this Christmas, it’s Lydia Millen’s Evergreen – a thoughtful, nature-led read rooted in balance, wellbeing and quiet reflection. Having read it myself, I was struck by how closely it aligns with the Princess of Wales’s own philosophy on living well. 

It’s not a book to be skimmed and forgotten, but one to return to throughout the year, much like the changing seasons it so beautifully mirrors. Rather than offering a rigid self-help formula, Evergreen gently guides you through the rhythms of the year, using nature as both a backdrop and a teacher.

Each chapter draws inspiration from seasonal shifts, encouraging a more grounded, intentional way of living that feels refreshingly calm in a world that so often demands constant motion.

It encourages readers to slow down, reconnect with nature and take comfort in life’s natural rhythms.

What makes the book stand out is its focus on emotional strength and self-acceptance, with Lydia exploring confidence, creativity and wellbeing in a way that feels gentle yet grounding.

Throughout, there’s a clear emphasis on mindfulness, urging readers to trust themselves, stop measuring their lives against others, and find contentment in simplicity.

It’s impossible not to draw parallels between the book’s ethos and Princess Catherine’s long-standing advocacy for the healing power of nature, outdoor activity and mental wellbeing.

Whether through her early years work, her love of gardening, or her visible comfort in the countryside, the Princess of Wales has consistently highlighted the importance of balance and emotional health – values that sit at the very heart of Evergreen.

For that reason, the book feels like exactly the kind of thoughtful Christmas gift one could imagine Prince William choosing for Catherine.

Not flashy or performative, but quietly meaningful- the sort of present that reflects shared values and a mutual appreciation for slower moments away from public life.

One can easily picture it resting beneath the Christmas tree at Sandringham, ready to be opened on Christmas morning before a crisp winter walk.

Ultimately, Evergreen is less about becoming someone new and more about returning to yourself. It celebrates living in tune with the seasons rather than against them, offering gentle reassurance that rest is just as important as growth.