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Always, in December
“A poignant, heart-tugging, life-affirming story that will wrap around you like a hug during any season. Keep tissues nearby!”— Josie Silver, #1 New York Times bestselling author of One Day in December
It started with a letter. It ended with a love story.
Every December, Josie posts a letter from her home in London to the parents she lost on Christmas night many years ago. Each year, she writes the same three Missing you, always. But this year, her annual trip to the postbox is knocked off course by a bicycle collision with a handsome stranger--a stranger who will change the course of Josie's life.
Josie always thought she was the only one who avoided the Christmas season, but this year, Max has his own reasons for doing the same—and coincidence leads them to spending the holiday together. Aglow with new love, Josie thinks this might be the start of something special.
Only for Max to disappear without saying goodbye.
Over the course of the next year, Max and Josie will find that fate continues to bring them together in places they'd never expect. New York City. Edinburgh. The quiet English countryside. And it turns out, Max had every reason to leave and every reason to stay. But what does fate hold for Josie and Max as Christmas approaches again?
A devastating, romantic, life-affirming love story, Always, in December will stay with readers long after they've finished the last page.
It started with a letter. It ended with a love story.
Every December, Josie posts a letter from her home in London to the parents she lost on Christmas night many years ago. Each year, she writes the same three Missing you, always. But this year, her annual trip to the postbox is knocked off course by a bicycle collision with a handsome stranger--a stranger who will change the course of Josie's life.
Josie always thought she was the only one who avoided the Christmas season, but this year, Max has his own reasons for doing the same—and coincidence leads them to spending the holiday together. Aglow with new love, Josie thinks this might be the start of something special.
Only for Max to disappear without saying goodbye.
Over the course of the next year, Max and Josie will find that fate continues to bring them together in places they'd never expect. New York City. Edinburgh. The quiet English countryside. And it turns out, Max had every reason to leave and every reason to stay. But what does fate hold for Josie and Max as Christmas approaches again?
A devastating, romantic, life-affirming love story, Always, in December will stay with readers long after they've finished the last page.
416 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 5, 2021
1064 people are currently reading
42007 people want to read
About the author
Emily Stone
5 books1,461 followersHello, I'm Emily! If you've found this page then welcome, and thanks so much for showing an interest in my writing.
If you read my novel then I really hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you want to get in touch then I'd love to hear from you - I've just joined Twitter, so come and say hello! (@EmStoneWrites)
If you read my novel then I really hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you want to get in touch then I'd love to hear from you - I've just joined Twitter, so come and say hello! (@EmStoneWrites)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,985 reviews
November 14, 2024
i’m sorry. what in the actual fuck was this.
October 12, 2021
Even though I knew this was a tearjerker before I started...
Even though I figured out what was going on long before it was revealed...
I still broke out into shaking sobs when all was said and done in the book.
This is mostly the story of a woman discovering that she is stronger than she thinks she is, and a message to all of us to live our lives to the fullest each day.
It's a romantic story, but it's also the story of friendship and love and family. It's the story of being there for each other in good times and in bad.
It's a bittersweet tale, at times funny and touching and at times heartbreaking, but it's definitely worth reading regardless. Be prepared because this isn't a light Christmas tale, it's much sadder than that, but it is also more than its sadness.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
Even though I figured out what was going on long before it was revealed...
I still broke out into shaking sobs when all was said and done in the book.
This is mostly the story of a woman discovering that she is stronger than she thinks she is, and a message to all of us to live our lives to the fullest each day.
It's a romantic story, but it's also the story of friendship and love and family. It's the story of being there for each other in good times and in bad.
It's a bittersweet tale, at times funny and touching and at times heartbreaking, but it's definitely worth reading regardless. Be prepared because this isn't a light Christmas tale, it's much sadder than that, but it is also more than its sadness.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, all opinions are my own.
December 23, 2021
It’s all TRUE.
Even though you have been warned by other reviewers that the ending requires tissues-you will be moved to tears anyway.
It is INEVITABLE.
Every December, Josie posts a letter to the parents she lost on Christmas night, when she was a young girl. She knows it cannot actually be delivered, but it brings her solace to write the words, anyway….MISSING YOU, ALWAYS
This DECEMBER, as she bicycles to the Post Box, she collides with a stranger-Max. Turns out, this Christmas is difficult for him as well, and they end up spending a few magical days together, indulging in traditions they would usually avoid. Could this be a new beginning for them both? Josie thinks so. But she wakes up on Boxing Day to find him gone, leaving her with no way to contact him.
Fate or destiny has other ideas, however and their paths will cross again in the most unexpected places.
Told in time jumps over the course of TWO years, and THREE Decembers-this book is about the people in your life who SUSTAIN you, and also those who CHANGE you.
It isn’t a cheerful, seasonal read- and it isn’t Chick Lit.
It IS both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and I am glad to have read it.
An impressive debut by author Emily Stone, who lost her own mother when she was just seven, and wanted a story which reflected that you always carry this grief with you long after the actual loss.
Always remember 💖
I received a gifted copy of this book, and it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
AVAILABLE now.
Even though you have been warned by other reviewers that the ending requires tissues-you will be moved to tears anyway.
It is INEVITABLE.
Every December, Josie posts a letter to the parents she lost on Christmas night, when she was a young girl. She knows it cannot actually be delivered, but it brings her solace to write the words, anyway….MISSING YOU, ALWAYS
This DECEMBER, as she bicycles to the Post Box, she collides with a stranger-Max. Turns out, this Christmas is difficult for him as well, and they end up spending a few magical days together, indulging in traditions they would usually avoid. Could this be a new beginning for them both? Josie thinks so. But she wakes up on Boxing Day to find him gone, leaving her with no way to contact him.
Fate or destiny has other ideas, however and their paths will cross again in the most unexpected places.
Told in time jumps over the course of TWO years, and THREE Decembers-this book is about the people in your life who SUSTAIN you, and also those who CHANGE you.
It isn’t a cheerful, seasonal read- and it isn’t Chick Lit.
It IS both heartwarming and heartbreaking, and I am glad to have read it.
An impressive debut by author Emily Stone, who lost her own mother when she was just seven, and wanted a story which reflected that you always carry this grief with you long after the actual loss.
Always remember 💖
I received a gifted copy of this book, and it was my pleasure to offer a candid review!
AVAILABLE now.
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January 2, 2023I read this book in this reading vlog!
LISTEN I HAVE NOT BEEN SO FURIOUS AT A BOOK IN A LOOOONG TIME. I was liking this. It was cute, enjoyable, but THEN... BUT THEN. Ohhhh I'm so mad. So I'm not mad because this is a romance and it doesn't prescribe to typical romance conventions. No. I'm mad because it was such a cheap shot for shock value. There was a way this could've been done that would've been fine. But that was not what happened here. I'm going to go into spoilers below, but just know this was SOOOO frustrating. I finished this and called my entire family to rant LOL.
LISTEN I HAVE NOT BEEN SO FURIOUS AT A BOOK IN A LOOOONG TIME. I was liking this. It was cute, enjoyable, but THEN... BUT THEN. Ohhhh I'm so mad. So I'm not mad because this is a romance and it doesn't prescribe to typical romance conventions. No. I'm mad because it was such a cheap shot for shock value. There was a way this could've been done that would've been fine. But that was not what happened here. I'm going to go into spoilers below, but just know this was SOOOO frustrating. I finished this and called my entire family to rant LOL.
December 12, 2021
Five sorrowful, tearful stars!🥺
Well, it’s only fitting that I waited till December to read this holiday romance.
Like for so many, Christmas has always been a painful time of the year for Josie. It’s understandable. Both her parents were killed in an auto accident on Christmas Eve. Now as an adult, every Christmas Eve Josie writes and posts a tribute to them in form of a letter.
This year on her way to post her letter she clumsily runs her bike directly into named Max as he exits his taxi. A quick friendship and a blossoming romance develop over the next few days. Until he vanishes, leaving her without a trace…ghosting her if you will! At this point I hated Max!😠
But hold on…maybe it’s not too late. Can love conquer all?
This book had a sluggish start for me. And with Max’s despicable behavior I wasn’t sure I wanted to see it through. But, just like Josie and Max, I couldn’t quite let go and needed to see it through.
This was exquisitely crafted, though gut-wrenching read that completely blindsided me. (To say the least.) Had absolutely no idea what I was in for and suggest you approach it the same way.
I didn’t just cry…I sobbed uncontrollably. A torrent of tears streamed down my cheeks as I fought to catch my breath.
A buddy read with Susanne that left us both reaching for our Kleenex boxes!😢😢
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine.
Well, it’s only fitting that I waited till December to read this holiday romance.
Like for so many, Christmas has always been a painful time of the year for Josie. It’s understandable. Both her parents were killed in an auto accident on Christmas Eve. Now as an adult, every Christmas Eve Josie writes and posts a tribute to them in form of a letter.
This year on her way to post her letter she clumsily runs her bike directly into named Max as he exits his taxi. A quick friendship and a blossoming romance develop over the next few days. Until he vanishes, leaving her without a trace…ghosting her if you will! At this point I hated Max!😠
But hold on…maybe it’s not too late. Can love conquer all?
This book had a sluggish start for me. And with Max’s despicable behavior I wasn’t sure I wanted to see it through. But, just like Josie and Max, I couldn’t quite let go and needed to see it through.
This was exquisitely crafted, though gut-wrenching read that completely blindsided me. (To say the least.) Had absolutely no idea what I was in for and suggest you approach it the same way.
I didn’t just cry…I sobbed uncontrollably. A torrent of tears streamed down my cheeks as I fought to catch my breath.
A buddy read with Susanne that left us both reaching for our Kleenex boxes!😢😢
Posted to: https://books-are-a-girls-best-friend...
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group- Ballantine.
December 8, 2021
TW: multiple deaths of loved ones; off page cheating; heart attack; cancer
I’m very conflicted about how to rate this because I did pick it up as a romance book BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT IT’S LABELED AS, but it definitely isn’t. Was it still well written? Yes. Would I have read this had I known it wasn’t actually romance and the tropes that I love that I thought until the last 10% were what was going on, weren’t actually happening? No probably not. I sobbed for 15 minutes while reading it and after finishing it so obviously it tore at my heart but this was not properly categorized or advertised, and is more for fans of the tragic romances like Me Before You, the tragic Colleen Hoover books, etc. I don’t know how to either recommend this or not without spoiling it and idk if this would have as big of a punch with being spoiled. However, I don’t think people should be bamboozled like I was either so 🤷🏻♀️
Edit: rating changed from initial 4 stars to 2 stars because in further consideration, while I enjoyed the book while reading it that was because I thought it was going in a different direction and the ending retconned all of those feelings and made things that happened in the story way less forgivable and ruined it. Maybe that wouldn’t happen if you know it’s not a romance going in though!
I’m very conflicted about how to rate this because I did pick it up as a romance book BECAUSE THAT’S WHAT IT’S LABELED AS, but it definitely isn’t. Was it still well written? Yes. Would I have read this had I known it wasn’t actually romance and the tropes that I love that I thought until the last 10% were what was going on, weren’t actually happening? No probably not. I sobbed for 15 minutes while reading it and after finishing it so obviously it tore at my heart but this was not properly categorized or advertised, and is more for fans of the tragic romances like Me Before You, the tragic Colleen Hoover books, etc. I don’t know how to either recommend this or not without spoiling it and idk if this would have as big of a punch with being spoiled. However, I don’t think people should be bamboozled like I was either so 🤷🏻♀️
Edit: rating changed from initial 4 stars to 2 stars because in further consideration, while I enjoyed the book while reading it that was because I thought it was going in a different direction and the ending retconned all of those feelings and made things that happened in the story way less forgivable and ruined it. Maybe that wouldn’t happen if you know it’s not a romance going in though!
August 12, 2021
I was going to give this story a 5-star rating until a certain part in the narrative came up and then I couldn't.
To the author: romance is a genre fiction that comes with very specific expectations. If these expectations are not met, it's not a romance. Call it women's fiction, call it general fiction, call it whatever you want—but DO NOT call it a romance.
To the publisher: why did you think it was okay to put this book in the romance category on NetGalley? This is NOT a romance. I see you put it in romance categories on Amazon too—this is a gross disservice to readers.
To the casual reader: if you've been duped in thinking this is a romance (like I was), save yourself the grief and don't read this. Seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
To the author: romance is a genre fiction that comes with very specific expectations. If these expectations are not met, it's not a romance. Call it women's fiction, call it general fiction, call it whatever you want—but DO NOT call it a romance.
To the publisher: why did you think it was okay to put this book in the romance category on NetGalley? This is NOT a romance. I see you put it in romance categories on Amazon too—this is a gross disservice to readers.
To the casual reader: if you've been duped in thinking this is a romance (like I was), save yourself the grief and don't read this. Seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
October 19, 2021
Ever start a book thinking you know exactly how it is going to end and how the story would be? That was the case for me in this book and I was off base. The cover makes it look light, cheerful, sweet, and perfect for winter read.
Enter Kleenexes stage left...
But underneath that cover is a tale of love, friendship, heartbreak, loss, and starting over.
Josie Morgan isn't a fan of December. It reminds her of loss. She avoids the celebrations and the music. They are painful reminders. She posts a letter every December. One that cannot be delivered.
Max Carter finds himself stranded in London right before Christmas. He never expected how hard it would be to say goodbye. He never expected to fall in love.
This was a moving I've-got-tears-in-my-eyes-and-now-they-are-falling-down-my checks-type of book.
I enjoyed the characters, I enjoyed their meeting, their encounters and everything in between. When we meet Josie, she has left her boyfriend, but she ultimately moves on and with it, meets Max and discovers her own worth.
This was a journey a very enjoyable journey that might break your heart a little after it puts a smile on your face. I thoroughly enjoyed this but be warned this is not a Holiday Rom-com. Yes, there is romance, yes it does take place around the holidays but it is more, much more. This book has depth and emotion.
Thank you to Random House Publishing-Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
Enter Kleenexes stage left...
But underneath that cover is a tale of love, friendship, heartbreak, loss, and starting over.
Josie Morgan isn't a fan of December. It reminds her of loss. She avoids the celebrations and the music. They are painful reminders. She posts a letter every December. One that cannot be delivered.
Max Carter finds himself stranded in London right before Christmas. He never expected how hard it would be to say goodbye. He never expected to fall in love.
This was a moving I've-got-tears-in-my-eyes-and-now-they-are-falling-down-my checks-type of book.
I enjoyed the characters, I enjoyed their meeting, their encounters and everything in between. When we meet Josie, she has left her boyfriend, but she ultimately moves on and with it, meets Max and discovers her own worth.
This was a journey a very enjoyable journey that might break your heart a little after it puts a smile on your face. I thoroughly enjoyed this but be warned this is not a Holiday Rom-com. Yes, there is romance, yes it does take place around the holidays but it is more, much more. This book has depth and emotion.
Thank you to Random House Publishing-Ballantine and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com
November 22, 2021
respectfully, no.
December 18, 2021
Well, that was Unexpected! Bring Hankies. Lots of them!
A chance for December romance.
Both Hopeful and Haunting.
The characterizations in this book are honest, real, and raw. The emotions it drew from me are intense and heartfelt. Emily Stone, you got me and got me good!
Josie and Max, you stole my heart. Max - you are totally Swoonworthy! It’s too bad that you were entirely fictional.
At this point in time, I have no words. I am in fact, mostly speechless.
This was one very memorable holiday buddy read with Kaceey that gave us quite a lot to discuss.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing, Ballantine for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
A chance for December romance.
Both Hopeful and Haunting.
The characterizations in this book are honest, real, and raw. The emotions it drew from me are intense and heartfelt. Emily Stone, you got me and got me good!
Josie and Max, you stole my heart. Max - you are totally Swoonworthy! It’s too bad that you were entirely fictional.
At this point in time, I have no words. I am in fact, mostly speechless.
This was one very memorable holiday buddy read with Kaceey that gave us quite a lot to discuss.
Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing, Ballantine for the arc.
Published on Goodreads and Twitter.
August 12, 2021
I was going to give this story a 5-star rating until a certain part in the narrative came up and then I couldn't.
To the author: romance is a genre fiction that comes with very specific expectations. If these expectations are not met, it's not a romance. Call it women's fiction, call it general fiction, call it whatever you want—but DO NOT call it a romance.
To the publisher: why did you think it was okay to put this book in the romance category on NetGalley? This is NOT a romance. I see you put it in romance categories on Amazon too—this is a gross disservice to readers.
To the casual reader: if you've been duped in thinking this is a romance (like I was), save yourself the grief and don't read this. Seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
To the author: romance is a genre fiction that comes with very specific expectations. If these expectations are not met, it's not a romance. Call it women's fiction, call it general fiction, call it whatever you want—but DO NOT call it a romance.
To the publisher: why did you think it was okay to put this book in the romance category on NetGalley? This is NOT a romance. I see you put it in romance categories on Amazon too—this is a gross disservice to readers.
To the casual reader: if you've been duped in thinking this is a romance (like I was), save yourself the grief and don't read this. Seriously.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
October 15, 2023
This is a character-driven love story.
Not your typical one...
But...
One that even if you think or guess the ending, you still want to be present for it.
Or...
At least I did.
The cover of the book makes you believe you are headed for a light cozy cheerful sweet perfect little winter romance.
But...
What you truly receive is a tale of love, friendship, heartbreak, loss, growth, and learning how to start over.
This book is a journey, like it’s character Josie.
If you are willing to take it, you might want some Kleenex nearby. What is it with these tear jerker books lately?
Not your typical one...
But...
One that even if you think or guess the ending, you still want to be present for it.
Or...
At least I did.
The cover of the book makes you believe you are headed for a light cozy cheerful sweet perfect little winter romance.
But...
What you truly receive is a tale of love, friendship, heartbreak, loss, growth, and learning how to start over.
This book is a journey, like it’s character Josie.
If you are willing to take it, you might want some Kleenex nearby. What is it with these tear jerker books lately?
November 24, 2021
How can this book be categorized as a "romance" is beyond my understanding. The characters maybe spend a impromptu week together, in which they sleep together before Max leaves.
I loved when they made Josie's ex jealous after he cheated on her. They got up to some cute Christmas activities together, despite Josie being a grouch about Christmas.
This is where most (if not all) the romance ends. We follow Max and Josie at different points in their life in the future as they continue to run into each other in different circumstances.
Something is off about Max. People are worried about how he is feeling and his energy levels. His family wants to help out and take care of him. Yes, you definitely see where this is going.. an absurd amount of predictability.
The times when Josie and Max interact is awkward. They go on a day adventure with Max's ex/current gf/friend/idk?? ( Josie doesn't know and is too stupid to ask). Besides having zero chemistry, they talk about nothing besides that one night they had and how Josie is so hurt for Max leaving and Max is too much of a wimp to explain his disappearance.
We get a pointless side story about Josie's career which is basically all orchestrated by Max during one of their meetings.
They would make great friends. I'm not sure why they are both so immature and cannot communicate. If any relationship did occur between them, I doubt it would have lasted long.
Finally, we make it to the predictable and boring ending. If you know anything about me, its that predictability will instantly place any book low on my charts. If you can make it past the whiny characters, lack of chemistry and snooze-worthy plot, you will find that this novel has nothing to do with Christmas. So really why you would want to read this is beyond me, but you have been honestly warned.
Also, I'm questioning what the title has to do with the plot...
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an advance reading copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
∙
part of race against time challenge (aka read all 2021 releases before the year ends.)
I loved when they made Josie's ex jealous after he cheated on her. They got up to some cute Christmas activities together, despite Josie being a grouch about Christmas.
This is where most (if not all) the romance ends. We follow Max and Josie at different points in their life in the future as they continue to run into each other in different circumstances.
Something is off about Max. People are worried about how he is feeling and his energy levels. His family wants to help out and take care of him. Yes, you definitely see where this is going.. an absurd amount of predictability.
The times when Josie and Max interact is awkward. They go on a day adventure with Max's ex/current gf/friend/idk?? ( Josie doesn't know and is too stupid to ask). Besides having zero chemistry, they talk about nothing besides that one night they had and how Josie is so hurt for Max leaving and Max is too much of a wimp to explain his disappearance.
We get a pointless side story about Josie's career which is basically all orchestrated by Max during one of their meetings.
They would make great friends. I'm not sure why they are both so immature and cannot communicate. If any relationship did occur between them, I doubt it would have lasted long.
Finally, we make it to the predictable and boring ending. If you know anything about me, its that predictability will instantly place any book low on my charts. If you can make it past the whiny characters, lack of chemistry and snooze-worthy plot, you will find that this novel has nothing to do with Christmas. So really why you would want to read this is beyond me, but you have been honestly warned.
Also, I'm questioning what the title has to do with the plot...
Thank you NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for an advance reading copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review
∙
part of race against time challenge (aka read all 2021 releases before the year ends.)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 8, 2021
Dear Always In December . . . .
This is a story about Josie and Max and their Christmas Eve meet-cute that turns into a whirlwind holiday romance – only for Max to ghost her. But as the two run into each other again and again over the course of the next year it seems maybe they aren’t meant to be apart.
I am always looking for a couple of holiday reads for December and the ending for this one was quite clear simply from the blurb. I still gave it a shot however, because people were very up in arms that a book can only be labeled a “romance” if it has a HEA. Really????? Me Before You is one of my favorite romance books that used this same trope – the only difference is that it did it well and made me fall in love with both Louisa andSam Claflin Will (and bumblebee tights). Sadly, this one just felt contrived and a blatant attempt to pull at the heartstrings. Didn’t work, though, because . . . .
This is a story about Josie and Max and their Christmas Eve meet-cute that turns into a whirlwind holiday romance – only for Max to ghost her. But as the two run into each other again and again over the course of the next year it seems maybe they aren’t meant to be apart.
I am always looking for a couple of holiday reads for December and the ending for this one was quite clear simply from the blurb. I still gave it a shot however, because people were very up in arms that a book can only be labeled a “romance” if it has a HEA. Really????? Me Before You is one of my favorite romance books that used this same trope – the only difference is that it did it well and made me fall in love with both Louisa and
December 19, 2022
I knew this wasn’t a light, fluffy Christmas romance and
thanks to the reviews of a few GR friends, I had tissues ready, and thought I went into this one prepared. Boy, was I wrong. Apparently my heart was not prepared at all because I was a sobbing mess. Despite this one wrecking me emotionally, I absolutely loved it. 4.5 stars rounded up because I adored Max and Josie and am still thinking about this book.
thanks to the reviews of a few GR friends, I had tissues ready, and thought I went into this one prepared. Boy, was I wrong. Apparently my heart was not prepared at all because I was a sobbing mess. Despite this one wrecking me emotionally, I absolutely loved it. 4.5 stars rounded up because I adored Max and Josie and am still thinking about this book.
November 4, 2021
This was beautifully written, and it felt as if it had been worked on for a long time to get it just right because the execution was great.
Except...
The cover makes this look like a HEA.
The first 90% makes this sound like a HEA.
It is not a HEA.
I think if I'd at least had some warning, it would have been okay, but there wasn't one bit of foreshadowing to hint at the blast of disappointment I felt so close to the end.
So yes, as long as you're prepared, I recommend this one. The writing is gorgeous, and the meet-cute is adorable. 4.2
Except...
The cover makes this look like a HEA.
The first 90% makes this sound like a HEA.
It is not a HEA.
I think if I'd at least had some warning, it would have been okay, but there wasn't one bit of foreshadowing to hint at the blast of disappointment I felt so close to the end.
So yes, as long as you're prepared, I recommend this one. The writing is gorgeous, and the meet-cute is adorable. 4.2
December 9, 2023
always, in december
the sky of stars✨
”She realized this had been part of what drew her to Max before, the slight unpredictability of him, the fact that he encouraged her to just go with it.”
gosh…where do I start? this book was absolutely gorgeously written. such raw emotions throughout the pages especially near the end🤧 i am still internally crying from the pain this book dragged me through. it was completely unexpected for me as I didn’t read any reviews before reading this and if I did I probably still wouldn’t have put things together until it was nearly too late.don’t mind me i am being dramatic okay maybe a little…🫣 as I didn’t actually cry tears reading this book i was beyond close. if I hadn’t stopped several times while reading those pages or was buddy reading this i think the chance of actual tears falling form my eyes would have happened and usually i don’t move a muscle reading a “tear-jerking” book. now enough with my pity party🤭 off to the real review
”Life’s too short to not do what you want”
Josie sends a special letter in the mail every year with the same words of ”missing you always” to her parents, who she lost many years ago. She quiet literally has a run-in (more like run-over) with a handsome & charming stranger💓 [enter handsome & charming stranger] Max, like Josie is avoiding celebrating Christmas this year, even though he tried to make a flight out to his parents in New York. They decided why not celebrate the holidays together, as their love begins being warmer than a carefully tended fire, Josie thinks maybe this is the beginning of something new and wonderful. but she doesn’t believe that everything happens for a reason. And then Max is gone; a note left in his place.
Following the next year fate seems to keep intertwining Josie & Max together. As Christmas starts to approach again, dreams are piecing together and learning Max had as many reasons to stay as he did to leave. One can’t help but wonder what destiny has in store for them.
An utterly heart melting(and breaking) beautiful book💕 not to be confused with a cozy Christmas read tho🫠🤭
”Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to.”
Through most of this book I related much(same and difficult situation)to this story, which is probably why I found myself picking it up in the first place. I cannot recommend enough if your in those shoes🤧💕 it feels like a tight loving hug🤗
the sky of stars✨
”She realized this had been part of what drew her to Max before, the slight unpredictability of him, the fact that he encouraged her to just go with it.”
gosh…where do I start? this book was absolutely gorgeously written. such raw emotions throughout the pages especially near the end🤧 i am still internally crying from the pain this book dragged me through. it was completely unexpected for me as I didn’t read any reviews before reading this and if I did I probably still wouldn’t have put things together until it was nearly too late.
”Life’s too short to not do what you want”
Josie sends a special letter in the mail every year with the same words of ”missing you always” to her parents, who she lost many years ago. She quiet literally has a run-in (more like run-over) with a handsome & charming stranger💓 [enter handsome & charming stranger] Max, like Josie is avoiding celebrating Christmas this year, even though he tried to make a flight out to his parents in New York. They decided why not celebrate the holidays together, as their love begins being warmer than a carefully tended fire, Josie thinks maybe this is the beginning of something new and wonderful. but she doesn’t believe that everything happens for a reason. And then Max is gone; a note left in his place.
Following the next year fate seems to keep intertwining Josie & Max together. As Christmas starts to approach again, dreams are piecing together and learning Max had as many reasons to stay as he did to leave. One can’t help but wonder what destiny has in store for them.
An utterly heart melting(and breaking) beautiful book💕 not to be confused with a cozy Christmas read tho🫠🤭
”Faith is believing in things when common sense tells you not to.”
Through most of this book I related much(same and difficult situation)to this story, which is probably why I found myself picking it up in the first place. I cannot recommend enough if your in those shoes🤧💕 it feels like a tight loving hug🤗
November 23, 2021
I was so excited to read a cute holiday romance (yes, that’s what it was categorized as), and it started off so strong. After literally running into Max on her bike, Josie offers to show Max around since he’s stranded in her town for Christmas. The two have a whirlwind holiday romance, but Max leaves suddenly and without explanation. However, over the next year, fate keeps intervening and their paths continue to cross.
Loved the premise, loved the characters. Sounds so cute right? WRONG. WHY on earth was this classified as a romance!? There is no HEA! The only word i can think of to describe my feelings rn is BAMBOOZLED. I was lead to believe this was a sweet holiday romance (considering the publisher compared it to People We Meet on Vacation, and it’s in the Amazon charts as a romance). But no, absolutely not. Call it something else. I read for fun, I don’t seek out gut wrenching stories about people who fall madly in love but don’t end up together. That’s not fun to me. Had I known this was that kind of story, I would’ve passed and chosen an ACTUAL holiday ROMANCE.
Loved the premise, loved the characters. Sounds so cute right? WRONG. WHY on earth was this classified as a romance!? There is no HEA! The only word i can think of to describe my feelings rn is BAMBOOZLED. I was lead to believe this was a sweet holiday romance (considering the publisher compared it to People We Meet on Vacation, and it’s in the Amazon charts as a romance). But no, absolutely not. Call it something else. I read for fun, I don’t seek out gut wrenching stories about people who fall madly in love but don’t end up together. That’s not fun to me. Had I known this was that kind of story, I would’ve passed and chosen an ACTUAL holiday ROMANCE.
December 16, 2022
Prima carte citită de la Emily Stone m-a surprins în mod plăcut și a avut tot ce trebuie: am fost prin 3 orașe faine (Londra, New York, Edinburgh), am avut parte de mult mood de Crăciun și de o poveste sensibilă, frumoasă, care mi-a frânt inima în cele din urmă. 💔
Ce mi-a plăcut:
🎄 Atmosfera Christmassy din prima parte a cărții a fost de vis 😻
👉🏻 Personajele au fost construite frumos și realist. Josie a reușit să crească în ochii mei după câteva capitole în care mă enervase:)) Max e un bărbat misterios, are șarm și trăiește fiecare clipă din plin. 💛 Cei doi sunt destinați să se tot întâlnească și adorrr asta.
🪄 Plotul a fost destul de interesant construit, cum s-au întâlnit ei, cum a mers actiunea mai departe, cum i-am urmărit pe cei doi pe parcursul anului, in diferite etape ale vieții. Superrrb. 💛
👉🏻 Cât de realist a fost totul!!
💪🏻 Cât de mult a crescut Josie pe parcursul cărții
😻 Partea vizuală a cărții, orașele descries MINUNAT – Londra, New York, Edinburgh
Ce nu mi-a plăcut:
🙃Poate faptul că a fost foarte mult focus pe starea de grief a lui Josie. De parcă (și probabil așa era) făcea parte din personalitatea ei – a trecut peste în cele din urmă și a acceptat că suferința face parte din viață.
💔 Finalul prea abrupt – aveam nevoie de mai mult timp 😫
Cartea e pentru cei care au nevoie de speranță, sau de un strop de motivație ca să facă ce-și doresc. 💛Este pentru cei care sunt destul de curajoși cât să facă un pas înainte. E pentru cei care cred în destin.
E o carte de citit la brad alături de o pătură pufoasă și o ciocoladă caldă. 😌
Vă las aici cu câteva citate care mi-au rămas în minte:
„N-am crezut nicicând că te voi revedea, și totuși mă bucur nespus că a fost menit ca drumurile noastre să se întretaie. ”
„Viața e prea scurtă ca să nu faci ce-ți place. ”
„O asemenea pierdere te schimbă. Dar treci peste suferință și înveți să conviețuiești cu ea. ”
,,...dac-aș fi avut șansa, aș fi ales să-mi petrec viața alături de tine. ”
„Dansul în ploaie, pe o stradă oarecare din Londra, ar trebui să se regăsească pe lista tuturor cu lucruri de făcut înainte de moarte. ”
Ce mi-a plăcut:
🎄 Atmosfera Christmassy din prima parte a cărții a fost de vis 😻
👉🏻 Personajele au fost construite frumos și realist. Josie a reușit să crească în ochii mei după câteva capitole în care mă enervase:)) Max e un bărbat misterios, are șarm și trăiește fiecare clipă din plin. 💛 Cei doi sunt destinați să se tot întâlnească și adorrr asta.
🪄 Plotul a fost destul de interesant construit, cum s-au întâlnit ei, cum a mers actiunea mai departe, cum i-am urmărit pe cei doi pe parcursul anului, in diferite etape ale vieții. Superrrb. 💛
👉🏻 Cât de realist a fost totul!!
💪🏻 Cât de mult a crescut Josie pe parcursul cărții
😻 Partea vizuală a cărții, orașele descries MINUNAT – Londra, New York, Edinburgh
Ce nu mi-a plăcut:
🙃Poate faptul că a fost foarte mult focus pe starea de grief a lui Josie. De parcă (și probabil așa era) făcea parte din personalitatea ei – a trecut peste în cele din urmă și a acceptat că suferința face parte din viață.
💔 Finalul prea abrupt – aveam nevoie de mai mult timp 😫
Cartea e pentru cei care au nevoie de speranță, sau de un strop de motivație ca să facă ce-și doresc. 💛Este pentru cei care sunt destul de curajoși cât să facă un pas înainte. E pentru cei care cred în destin.
E o carte de citit la brad alături de o pătură pufoasă și o ciocoladă caldă. 😌
Vă las aici cu câteva citate care mi-au rămas în minte:
„N-am crezut nicicând că te voi revedea, și totuși mă bucur nespus că a fost menit ca drumurile noastre să se întretaie. ”
„Viața e prea scurtă ca să nu faci ce-ți place. ”
„O asemenea pierdere te schimbă. Dar treci peste suferință și înveți să conviețuiești cu ea. ”
,,...dac-aș fi avut șansa, aș fi ales să-mi petrec viața alături de tine. ”
„Dansul în ploaie, pe o stradă oarecare din Londra, ar trebui să se regăsească pe lista tuturor cu lucruri de făcut înainte de moarte. ”
November 26, 2021
How should I put this, it's kind of a spoiler. Don't call a book a romance if it doesn't have an HEA. If you go in looking for a light feel-good read but leave it sobbing, what has been accomplished? I didn't sob, I was just disgusted. I outgrew the Lurlene McDaniel bullsh!t as a teen.
Strong opinions but that's how I roll.
Thanks to the publisher for providing access to this title via NetGalley.
Strong opinions but that's how I roll.
Thanks to the publisher for providing access to this title via NetGalley.
September 30, 2021
Josie and Max. Their story begins with a meet-cute moment when Josie is on her way to post a letter--to the parents who died too young. It is a bittersweet tradition. One she has kept for decades -- always, in December. This book broke my heart. At the same time there is a wonderful message about missing the ones we have lost and experiencing life without them.
"I'm OK," she repeated. "Really. It's something I've learned to carry around with me, but in some ways I'm glad of that, because it means I loved them, and I remember them, you know?"
Many of us have stories of loved ones who were lost on a holiday or birthday. The years to follow are forever changed. Have your tissues ready. This reminded me a bit of a Nicholas Sparks novel. Be forewarned -- this is not a romance in the truest definition. You will spend time in London at Christmas, NYC (Central Park in spring), Edinburgh in late summer, and Botswana in December. My biggest disappointment was the language. It is called "taking the Lord's name in vain" for a reason.
Thank you to Dell and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
"I'm OK," she repeated. "Really. It's something I've learned to carry around with me, but in some ways I'm glad of that, because it means I loved them, and I remember them, you know?"
Many of us have stories of loved ones who were lost on a holiday or birthday. The years to follow are forever changed. Have your tissues ready. This reminded me a bit of a Nicholas Sparks novel. Be forewarned -- this is not a romance in the truest definition. You will spend time in London at Christmas, NYC (Central Park in spring), Edinburgh in late summer, and Botswana in December. My biggest disappointment was the language. It is called "taking the Lord's name in vain" for a reason.
Thank you to Dell and Edelweiss+ for a DRC in exchange for an honest review.
December 13, 2021
Always, in December is far from a light holiday read — It’s best to know this going into it.
The story starts with a letter. Josie, who tragically lost her parents when she was a child in an accident on Christmas Eve, sends them a letter each year. As she is headed to drop off the letter this year, she has a bike collision with a handsome stranger, Max. The two end up spending Christmas together as Max has his own reasons for being less than excited about the holiday. The time together seems great, until Max leaves Jodie without any real goodbye.
Jodie and Max find themselves brought together over the course of the next year in random, unexpected places as their lives continue independently. As the year progresses, it becomes clear something has been left unsaid and the story concludes with a turn I didn’t see coming.
Always, in December is sad, but the story held my interest. While not a light, cute, holiday romcom, there were funny moments. The story gave me a true appreciation for those who don’t love the holiday season, for whatever past experiences or various reasons they are reminded of, as the majority of the world continues to celebrate — If this is you, I’m thinking of you.
The story starts with a letter. Josie, who tragically lost her parents when she was a child in an accident on Christmas Eve, sends them a letter each year. As she is headed to drop off the letter this year, she has a bike collision with a handsome stranger, Max. The two end up spending Christmas together as Max has his own reasons for being less than excited about the holiday. The time together seems great, until Max leaves Jodie without any real goodbye.
Jodie and Max find themselves brought together over the course of the next year in random, unexpected places as their lives continue independently. As the year progresses, it becomes clear something has been left unsaid and the story concludes with a turn I didn’t see coming.
Always, in December is sad, but the story held my interest. While not a light, cute, holiday romcom, there were funny moments. The story gave me a true appreciation for those who don’t love the holiday season, for whatever past experiences or various reasons they are reminded of, as the majority of the world continues to celebrate — If this is you, I’m thinking of you.
December 26, 2022
Deși aparent este o carte clișeică vei fi surprins că nu e 100% cum te așteptai.
Nu e numai lapte și miere, e foarte realistă și credibilă. Ok, sunt și scene previzibile dar se îmbină perfect cu restul detaliilor.
Setează-ți așteptările corespunzător și vei avea parte de o lectură super faină! Transmite speranță, emoție, ideea că totul va fi bine și te îndeamnă indirect să-ți urmezi calea.
Nu e numai lapte și miere, e foarte realistă și credibilă. Ok, sunt și scene previzibile dar se îmbină perfect cu restul detaliilor.
Setează-ți așteptările corespunzător și vei avea parte de o lectură super faină! Transmite speranță, emoție, ideea că totul va fi bine și te îndeamnă indirect să-ți urmezi calea.
December 12, 2022
Josie writes a letter to her deceased parents every Christmas. As she was on her way to the mailbox, Max runs over her. Immediately, she feels something when she is near him and the two spend wonderful Christmas days. But on Boxing Day, he suddenly disappears. Within the year, the two meet again by chance and the love between them grows. In December, Max suddenly shows up at Josie's door again, but this time it's for the last time, and a year later, at Christmas, she writes two letters.
A beautiful novel, with an ending you don't see coming. It tells a story of a woman who changes her whole life through the love of a man.
A beautiful novel, with an ending you don't see coming. It tells a story of a woman who changes her whole life through the love of a man.
November 22, 2021
First of all, I want to thank the publisher for granting my "wish" for this in NetGalley. I had seen some reviews for this one, and just knew that this is exactly the type of book in my wheelhouse. A realistic portrayal of the ways that love steals and then inevitably breaks our hearts. An exploration into the path that grief takes in our life. The ways it affects all of our future decisions and actions and never ever quite ever leaves our heart.
I've seen some reviews that critically rate this book because they think romance should be all flowers and happy endings. I completely disagree - but then again, I'm not an everyday romance reader. The way that this book takes hold of the reader's heart and takes it along the journey to heartache is exactly what my idea of romance is. The way this story developed the characters and the romantic relationship was exquisite. I felt every jolt of new-found lust, every heartbreaking misunderstanding and the overwhelming tension with one unsaid thing that one character could not face enough to tell the other.
I loved the self-deprecating, artistic, caring, introverted and altruistic main character, Josie. She grew up with the tragedy of her parent's death always in her mind and heart. It affects all aspects of her life. She meets Max and what starts out as her apologizing for her literally wrecking into him with her bike, ends up with her finding potentially her true soulmate... who doesn't actually seem available. She has great friendships and one super dysfunctional relationship. He also has a seemingly super dysfunctional relationship. What ensues is a quest for Josie to hone her passion and for her to find herself before she can find her mate.
This story is beautifully heartbreaking - so be ready with tissues. There is a string throughout the whole book that makes the reader cognizant to the fact that something is amiss in the background, but they are only fed small hints. I honestly loved that aspect -- I kept trying to figure out what it could be. There is so much to love about this book! You will love the relationships, you will love (and hate some of) the side characters, you will love the friendships and you will be totally vested in how this will end. Go grab this one now!
Recommend fully! Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballentine for the ARC to read and review.
I've seen some reviews that critically rate this book because they think romance should be all flowers and happy endings. I completely disagree - but then again, I'm not an everyday romance reader. The way that this book takes hold of the reader's heart and takes it along the journey to heartache is exactly what my idea of romance is. The way this story developed the characters and the romantic relationship was exquisite. I felt every jolt of new-found lust, every heartbreaking misunderstanding and the overwhelming tension with one unsaid thing that one character could not face enough to tell the other.
I loved the self-deprecating, artistic, caring, introverted and altruistic main character, Josie. She grew up with the tragedy of her parent's death always in her mind and heart. It affects all aspects of her life. She meets Max and what starts out as her apologizing for her literally wrecking into him with her bike, ends up with her finding potentially her true soulmate... who doesn't actually seem available. She has great friendships and one super dysfunctional relationship. He also has a seemingly super dysfunctional relationship. What ensues is a quest for Josie to hone her passion and for her to find herself before she can find her mate.
This story is beautifully heartbreaking - so be ready with tissues. There is a string throughout the whole book that makes the reader cognizant to the fact that something is amiss in the background, but they are only fed small hints. I honestly loved that aspect -- I kept trying to figure out what it could be. There is so much to love about this book! You will love the relationships, you will love (and hate some of) the side characters, you will love the friendships and you will be totally vested in how this will end. Go grab this one now!
Recommend fully! Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Ballentine for the ARC to read and review.
October 6, 2021
DNF, but jumped ahead to read the ending.
I mean, you go into a Romance expecting (1) romance and (2) a happily ever after. Not so with ALWAYS IN DECEMBER. Geez. I don't even know what to say here.
Josie and Max spend a week together during which they sleep together. Then they continually run into each other periodically over the following years. Other than that one week, their relationship feels like a fairly immature friendship, punctuated by lots of awkwardness. I just felt no chemistry between these two.
And that ENDING. No HEA with this one, my friends.
Sadly, ALWAYS IN DECEMBER was a total miss for me.
I mean, you go into a Romance expecting (1) romance and (2) a happily ever after. Not so with ALWAYS IN DECEMBER. Geez. I don't even know what to say here.
Josie and Max spend a week together during which they sleep together. Then they continually run into each other periodically over the following years. Other than that one week, their relationship feels like a fairly immature friendship, punctuated by lots of awkwardness. I just felt no chemistry between these two.
And that ENDING. No HEA with this one, my friends.
Sadly, ALWAYS IN DECEMBER was a total miss for me.
November 22, 2023
Hold me 😭😭😭
February 9, 2022
4 teary stars
So, I forgot that people reviewed this one and noted to have a box of tissues handy. I had in my head that it was a holiday romance and no problem, it could be my Valentine's Day book.
Josie and Max have a memorable meeting and spend a few days together at Christmas when he is stranded when his flight to New York is canceled. They make a remarkable connection and Josie is crushed when he leaves without saying goodbye.
The holidays have always been difficult for Josie since she lost her parents on Christmas when she was a young girl, so Max's sudden departure is even harder on her!
Josie and Max happen to cross paths again in New York and things are quite awkward, but it's clear there are still feelings there. Fate intervenes again and they attend the same wedding in Scotland.
We only find out the full truth at the end of the book, and it is a good idea to have that box of tissues nearby. I liked this debut novel from Emily Stone and found it so much more than a romance. It's a story about family, friends, love, enjoying life, grief, and the power of becoming your true self.
Can't wait to read this author's next book!
So, I forgot that people reviewed this one and noted to have a box of tissues handy. I had in my head that it was a holiday romance and no problem, it could be my Valentine's Day book.
Josie and Max have a memorable meeting and spend a few days together at Christmas when he is stranded when his flight to New York is canceled. They make a remarkable connection and Josie is crushed when he leaves without saying goodbye.
The holidays have always been difficult for Josie since she lost her parents on Christmas when she was a young girl, so Max's sudden departure is even harder on her!
Josie and Max happen to cross paths again in New York and things are quite awkward, but it's clear there are still feelings there. Fate intervenes again and they attend the same wedding in Scotland.
We only find out the full truth at the end of the book, and it is a good idea to have that box of tissues nearby. I liked this debut novel from Emily Stone and found it so much more than a romance. It's a story about family, friends, love, enjoying life, grief, and the power of becoming your true self.
Can't wait to read this author's next book!
December 29, 2021
Josie just broke up with her long term boyfriend, had a let down with her job and will be spending Christmas alone. She lost her parents at Christmas as a child and is on her way to post her annual letter to them when she quite literally runs into Max. Max's flight to the US has been rescheduled and he too is alone for Christmas. Max and Josie end up spending the holiday together and Josie believes romance is blossoming. She's devastated when Max ghosts her, but looks to optimistically move forward in her future. Yet fate seems determined to bring them together as they keep running into each other at various events. Each meeting brings them closer, but Max is harboring a secret that's holding him back from sharing his heart. When they meet again the following Christmas will the time finally be right for Max and Josie?
A wonderful heartfelt romance that made me laugh, made me cry, making me fall in love with Josie's resilience, loyalty, and hope in the future.
A wonderful heartfelt romance that made me laugh, made me cry, making me fall in love with Josie's resilience, loyalty, and hope in the future.
January 9, 2022
This book left me sobbing! I was wholly unprepared for the emotions it brought out in me.
A fated love story that is as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking. This books deals with grief and loss and you will feel it but you will also be glad you read it. Have tissues handy and time to devote to Josie and Max - you will want to lose yourself in their story.
A fated love story that is as heartwarming as it is heartbreaking. This books deals with grief and loss and you will feel it but you will also be glad you read it. Have tissues handy and time to devote to Josie and Max - you will want to lose yourself in their story.
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