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Five Gold Rings
What does Christmas look like to you? A tree rammed with homemade decorations, a mantelpiece weighed down with cards, Mum telling Dad not to put the chocolate wrappers back in the tin, a festive film on television...
It should definitely not look like a naked woman on her knees noshing off your boyfriend of three years in the shower.
It’s Christmas Eve eve, and the holidays are not off to a good start for, er, Eve.
After the surprise and shock of catching her boyfriend cheating, Eve – totally devastated – reacts by throwing the gifts she’s selflessly bought and wrapped for HIS family out of the window. But while doing so she discovers her own present from Chris under the Christmas tree: an engagement ring, bought at the jeweller’s where she works. What the jingle bells is going on? And what was he thinking?
Confused and with her Christmas plans in tatters, Eve rocks up at the jeweller's for some tea and sympathy with her lovely employers, Mr and Mrs Caspar, who quietly put in a distress call to her colleague, Joe. Eve doesn’t know that Joe is secretly in love with her, but her bosses do, and they know he’s just the person Eve needs to comfort her in a crisis.
Joe gets the call while moonlighting as a buff butler at a Christmas-themed hen do and races across town to help console Eve. But as he learns about her heartbreak, the Caspars realise a crucial delivery has gone astray: five gold rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings have been sent to the wrong address.
Can Eve and Joe retrieve the rings and get them to their rightful owners in time?
As they set off in Joe’s ancient mini – Joe still dressed as a sexy elf and Eve just a liiiittle bit tipsy – their adventure begins. With three proposals and two weddings to get to, it’s up to Eve and Joe to save Christmas.
An utterly hilarious novel for anyone looking for festive romance with all the feels. If you have a hot date with Love Actually every Christmas you will adore this gloriously funny and unmissable festive read.
It should definitely not look like a naked woman on her knees noshing off your boyfriend of three years in the shower.
It’s Christmas Eve eve, and the holidays are not off to a good start for, er, Eve.
After the surprise and shock of catching her boyfriend cheating, Eve – totally devastated – reacts by throwing the gifts she’s selflessly bought and wrapped for HIS family out of the window. But while doing so she discovers her own present from Chris under the Christmas tree: an engagement ring, bought at the jeweller’s where she works. What the jingle bells is going on? And what was he thinking?
Confused and with her Christmas plans in tatters, Eve rocks up at the jeweller's for some tea and sympathy with her lovely employers, Mr and Mrs Caspar, who quietly put in a distress call to her colleague, Joe. Eve doesn’t know that Joe is secretly in love with her, but her bosses do, and they know he’s just the person Eve needs to comfort her in a crisis.
Joe gets the call while moonlighting as a buff butler at a Christmas-themed hen do and races across town to help console Eve. But as he learns about her heartbreak, the Caspars realise a crucial delivery has gone astray: five gold rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings have been sent to the wrong address.
Can Eve and Joe retrieve the rings and get them to their rightful owners in time?
As they set off in Joe’s ancient mini – Joe still dressed as a sexy elf and Eve just a liiiittle bit tipsy – their adventure begins. With three proposals and two weddings to get to, it’s up to Eve and Joe to save Christmas.
An utterly hilarious novel for anyone looking for festive romance with all the feels. If you have a hot date with Love Actually every Christmas you will adore this gloriously funny and unmissable festive read.
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2023
649 people are currently reading
3042 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 893 reviews
September 23, 2023
When a book makes me smile, it’s a great one. When it makes me laugh, it’s a noteworthy one. Five gold rings made me laugh for sure. There were so many hilarious moments, that just fitted my humor.
In addition it was a cute story, and I loved the characters. Sure, someone falling in love so fast after a break-up isn’t entirely believable, but we do know that adrenaline combined with alcohol surely creates emotions one might not otherwise experience.
We follow two POVs, Eve and Joe. Eve has just discovered that her boyfriend was cheating on her, and Joe has been in love with Eve for a while without telling her. Perfect setup? Oh, yes!! I have read Bailey’s books before, and they also made me laugh and feel great about the world, so it was wonderful that I got the chance to feel that way again.
The book isn’t deep or profound, but it was enjoyable, cute and fun. What more can you ask for to take your mind off things and make you feel better for a while?
Thanks to netgalley and storm publishing for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
In addition it was a cute story, and I loved the characters. Sure, someone falling in love so fast after a break-up isn’t entirely believable, but we do know that adrenaline combined with alcohol surely creates emotions one might not otherwise experience.
We follow two POVs, Eve and Joe. Eve has just discovered that her boyfriend was cheating on her, and Joe has been in love with Eve for a while without telling her. Perfect setup? Oh, yes!! I have read Bailey’s books before, and they also made me laugh and feel great about the world, so it was wonderful that I got the chance to feel that way again.
The book isn’t deep or profound, but it was enjoyable, cute and fun. What more can you ask for to take your mind off things and make you feel better for a while?
Thanks to netgalley and storm publishing for the arc in exchange for my honest opinion.
September 28, 2023
Thank you Storm Publishing and NetGalley for the ARC. IYKYK, my reviews are always honest.
Writing: ok | Plot: honestly great!!! | Ending: epilogue was kinda odd
SYNOPSIS
After an unwelcome surprise in her shower, Eve turns to work as a distraction, leading her on an adventure all over town with her fine ass coworker, Joe.
MY OPINION
I don't mean to be a Grinch, but this wasn't giving it to me (pause). I've decided I'm not gonna give romances less than three stars unless hoes are REALLY wildin'. This book had a PERFECT Christmas premise. Honestly, I'd watch it as a movie any day of the week. But for some reason it just didn't land with me.
The main issue was I didn't feel the vibes between Joe and Eve. Yes, it was clear Joe wanted to wear Eve's skin like a catsuit, but their chemistry was as flat as my husband's ass. Yeah I said it. I think this was mostly due to Eve being drunk the ENTIRE time and the breakup being too fresh. This kind of 'rebound love story' only works if the recently dumped/dumpee was already emotionally over their partner longgggggg before the breakup occurred. But since Eve was caught hella unaware but otherwise was fully in love, it was odd that her feelings went 100 to 0 for Chris and 0 to 100 for Joe in a matter of days. Compound that with the fact Eve wasn't sober long enough to really process her breakup or her random feelings for Joe, I just wasn't buying into it. I'M SORRY!!!!!
My other major complaint was that giggle/giggles/giggling was used THIRTY FOUR (34) TIMES!!!! NAHHHHH!!! The book is only 317 pages, which means this word was used approximately every nine pages. Adult women are not giggling this much. And furthermore, the descriptor 'squealed' for Joe's (confirmed) straight male bestie's dialogue took me right out. I don't like it. I don't like it at all.
Again, the premise is GREAT and there were some truly funny and heartwarming scenes. So if it appeals to you, ignore what I just said and read it. There's nothing offensively or blatantly trash about this... I just didn't love it as much as I wanted to.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: FANTASTIC premise (perf for a Christmas romcom), genuinely funny in parts, heartwarming and touching moments
Cons: used the word 'giggle' and 'squealed' waaaay too many times, chemistry was flat for me, couldn't buy into the authenticity of Eve's feelings for Joe
Writing: ok | Plot: honestly great!!! | Ending: epilogue was kinda odd
SYNOPSIS
After an unwelcome surprise in her shower, Eve turns to work as a distraction, leading her on an adventure all over town with her fine ass coworker, Joe.
MY OPINION
I don't mean to be a Grinch, but this wasn't giving it to me (pause). I've decided I'm not gonna give romances less than three stars unless hoes are REALLY wildin'. This book had a PERFECT Christmas premise. Honestly, I'd watch it as a movie any day of the week. But for some reason it just didn't land with me.
The main issue was I didn't feel the vibes between Joe and Eve. Yes, it was clear Joe wanted to wear Eve's skin like a catsuit, but their chemistry was as flat as my husband's ass. Yeah I said it. I think this was mostly due to Eve being drunk the ENTIRE time and the breakup being too fresh. This kind of 'rebound love story' only works if the recently dumped/dumpee was already emotionally over their partner longgggggg before the breakup occurred. But since Eve was caught hella unaware but otherwise was fully in love, it was odd that her feelings went 100 to 0 for Chris and 0 to 100 for Joe in a matter of days. Compound that with the fact Eve wasn't sober long enough to really process her breakup or her random feelings for Joe, I just wasn't buying into it. I'M SORRY!!!!!
My other major complaint was that giggle/giggles/giggling was used THIRTY FOUR (34) TIMES!!!! NAHHHHH!!! The book is only 317 pages, which means this word was used approximately every nine pages. Adult women are not giggling this much. And furthermore, the descriptor 'squealed' for Joe's (confirmed) straight male bestie's dialogue took me right out. I don't like it. I don't like it at all.
Again, the premise is GREAT and there were some truly funny and heartwarming scenes. So if it appeals to you, ignore what I just said and read it. There's nothing offensively or blatantly trash about this... I just didn't love it as much as I wanted to.
PROS AND CONS
Pros: FANTASTIC premise (perf for a Christmas romcom), genuinely funny in parts, heartwarming and touching moments
Cons: used the word 'giggle' and 'squealed' waaaay too many times, chemistry was flat for me, couldn't buy into the authenticity of Eve's feelings for Joe
April 12, 2024
somewhere between cute and boring...
December 31, 2024
The holiday season gets off to a rocky start when Eve catches her boyfriend of three years cheating on her—on Christmas Eve, of all nights. She proceeds to chuck all of the gifts she purchased and wrapped for HIS family out the window of their flat. As she is doing this, she finds her present from Chris under the tree. It's an engagement ring he purchased from her place of employment, and not one he put much thought into.
She shows up to work and her lovely employers, Mr. and Mrs. Caspar, call in her co-worker Joe to help comfort her. Eve doesn't know it, but Joe is secretly in love with her. When five gold rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings accidentally get sent to the wrong address, Eve and Joe are sent to save Christmas by getting the rings to their proper owners.
Kristen Bailey's humor is so entertaining and once again I found myself laughing quite a bit especially at the jingle bells elf outfit. Five Gold Rings is another feel-good holiday romance with very likable characters, well all except Eve's lose of a boyfriend. 4 gold stars ⭐️
She shows up to work and her lovely employers, Mr. and Mrs. Caspar, call in her co-worker Joe to help comfort her. Eve doesn't know it, but Joe is secretly in love with her. When five gold rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings accidentally get sent to the wrong address, Eve and Joe are sent to save Christmas by getting the rings to their proper owners.
Kristen Bailey's humor is so entertaining and once again I found myself laughing quite a bit especially at the jingle bells elf outfit. Five Gold Rings is another feel-good holiday romance with very likable characters, well all except Eve's lose of a boyfriend. 4 gold stars ⭐️
December 6, 2024
Eh, it was fine. If I wasn't already mad when I found out there was one narrator I would have been in the first chapter when Eve finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her. She's so mad, rightfully so, and ends up throwing all the expensive Christmas gifts out the window. I hate wastefulness, even in my fiction. I bet someone down on their luck would have loved that cashmere sweater she pitched out. I did get a chuckle when the mailman asks her wtf she's doing. She tells him why and he says "okay, carry on, love" 😂
Narration notes:
Oh yay, one narrator with dual POV, my favorite 🙄👎
It was really hard to concentrate on it since it’s in the 1st person. I hate when I have to think too much about who’s talking when I’m listening. Perhaps would have enjoyed more if I read it.
Loved the epilogue that had Ed from Sex Ed buying a ring.
Narration notes:
Oh yay, one narrator with dual POV, my favorite 🙄👎
It was really hard to concentrate on it since it’s in the 1st person. I hate when I have to think too much about who’s talking when I’m listening. Perhaps would have enjoyed more if I read it.
Loved the epilogue that had Ed from Sex Ed buying a ring.
December 12, 2023
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
Eve never expected to end up single at Christmas, having caught her boyfriend in the act in their flat. Desperate for any kind of distraction, she turns to her employers Caspar & Sons, jewellers, to give her anything to keep her mind off the dismal holidays that await. Enter Joe, part time shop assistant and secretly in love with Eve. With a little manipulating from the Caspars, the pair set off on an adventure to reunite five gold rings with their owners in time of Christmas. And maybe, just maybe they'll find a little love themselves.
A funny, heartwarming story about love and friendship at Christmas time. This was a joy to read from start to finish. I felt so emotionally invested in Eve and Joe. Joe is an absolute cinnamon roll, desperately in love with Eve and she's the only one who can't see it. To see him support her emotionally, getting her to shine again all on her own, while helping people along the way was a delight to read. And Eve is a great protagonist too, someone who wants to help anyone and everyone, someone who sees the best in all. They're a great pairing, who compliment each other so well.
I loved the different themes of love within the plot, from the proposals to the weddings. It feels a little like Love Actually, as Eve and Joe meet several different couples and hear a little of their love story while injecting a bit of humour along the way. There's everything from a semi naked Elf, a grand proposal in central London and even a stolen turkey. It's silly at times, but laced with sentiment too, and it hits that Christmas sentiment perfectly. This is easily one of the best Christmas stories I've read this year.
Eve never expected to end up single at Christmas, having caught her boyfriend in the act in their flat. Desperate for any kind of distraction, she turns to her employers Caspar & Sons, jewellers, to give her anything to keep her mind off the dismal holidays that await. Enter Joe, part time shop assistant and secretly in love with Eve. With a little manipulating from the Caspars, the pair set off on an adventure to reunite five gold rings with their owners in time of Christmas. And maybe, just maybe they'll find a little love themselves.
A funny, heartwarming story about love and friendship at Christmas time. This was a joy to read from start to finish. I felt so emotionally invested in Eve and Joe. Joe is an absolute cinnamon roll, desperately in love with Eve and she's the only one who can't see it. To see him support her emotionally, getting her to shine again all on her own, while helping people along the way was a delight to read. And Eve is a great protagonist too, someone who wants to help anyone and everyone, someone who sees the best in all. They're a great pairing, who compliment each other so well.
I loved the different themes of love within the plot, from the proposals to the weddings. It feels a little like Love Actually, as Eve and Joe meet several different couples and hear a little of their love story while injecting a bit of humour along the way. There's everything from a semi naked Elf, a grand proposal in central London and even a stolen turkey. It's silly at times, but laced with sentiment too, and it hits that Christmas sentiment perfectly. This is easily one of the best Christmas stories I've read this year.
January 15, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️(3/5, Holiday Romance)
This super sweet romance is festive and filled to the brim with LOVE. The premise is a lot of fun and I found myself getting a little misty eyed from time to time.
This book is about Eve and Joe. Eve walks into her apartment on the eve of Christmas Eve and finds her boyfriend of 3 years in a very compromising situation with another woman! Eve rages and then retreats to her safe space, the jewelry store she works at run by a sweet elderly couple, Mr. And Mrs. Casper. Once she’s regaled them with her harrowing story they call in Joe, Eve’s coworker who is totally in love with her but she has no idea, for reinforcements!! When the Casper’s realize a courier blunder caused 5 golden rings to be delivered to the wrong address Eve offers to help with their predicament as it could serve as a nice distraction and Joe offers to accompany here because… he’s in love with her! Lots of very funny mixups and mishaps happen and you’re sure to find yourself in the holiday spirit after reading this one.
I don’t think I’ve read a romance where the male lead has been pining over the girl and the girl has seriously friend zoned him! This is a dual POV story and I almost wish it was single POV just to amp up the tension. I found this to be a little slow at times and I was anxious for Joe to get home to his family! All that said, overall this was an enjoyable little holiday story.
This super sweet romance is festive and filled to the brim with LOVE. The premise is a lot of fun and I found myself getting a little misty eyed from time to time.
This book is about Eve and Joe. Eve walks into her apartment on the eve of Christmas Eve and finds her boyfriend of 3 years in a very compromising situation with another woman! Eve rages and then retreats to her safe space, the jewelry store she works at run by a sweet elderly couple, Mr. And Mrs. Casper. Once she’s regaled them with her harrowing story they call in Joe, Eve’s coworker who is totally in love with her but she has no idea, for reinforcements!! When the Casper’s realize a courier blunder caused 5 golden rings to be delivered to the wrong address Eve offers to help with their predicament as it could serve as a nice distraction and Joe offers to accompany here because… he’s in love with her! Lots of very funny mixups and mishaps happen and you’re sure to find yourself in the holiday spirit after reading this one.
I don’t think I’ve read a romance where the male lead has been pining over the girl and the girl has seriously friend zoned him! This is a dual POV story and I almost wish it was single POV just to amp up the tension. I found this to be a little slow at times and I was anxious for Joe to get home to his family! All that said, overall this was an enjoyable little holiday story.
November 23, 2023
This was HILARIOUS! After catching her boyfriend cheating right before Christmas, Eve is gifted a much needed distraction when tasked with delivering ring orders alongside her coworker, Joe. From engagement rings to wedding bands, each pitstop brings festive mishaps ... and even a few precious moments—the final ring delivery brought tears to my eyes!
Little does Eve know, Joe has been hiding his feelings for years. And what better than a little forced proximity to shine light on his absolute good-guy persona. Joe had a heart of gold; the type of man that'll wash your soiled dress as you sleep away after drunken night. After everything Eve has gone through, he was the ultimate wingman.
On top of that, the dry humour and friendly banter between Eve and Joe was SO GOOD. There is nothing I love more in a romance!
(heat level: kissing only, but lots of language and innuendo throughout)
Little does Eve know, Joe has been hiding his feelings for years. And what better than a little forced proximity to shine light on his absolute good-guy persona. Joe had a heart of gold; the type of man that'll wash your soiled dress as you sleep away after drunken night. After everything Eve has gone through, he was the ultimate wingman.
On top of that, the dry humour and friendly banter between Eve and Joe was SO GOOD. There is nothing I love more in a romance!
(heat level: kissing only, but lots of language and innuendo throughout)
November 1, 2023
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Select for this super cute Christmasy audiobook!
Five Gold Rings was a delightful story, perfect to get ready for the Christmas period.
This book was fast paced and very funny.
The voice actress does a super nice job, but I would have loved a male actor to voice Joe. I think Joe was the strong point of this book. He was a gentleman, with golden retriever energy and a super hot and sweet persona.
Eve was a good FMC, but in this book I think Joe outshined her. He was perfect. The boy every girl deserves.
The scene when he reads the note left from Chris (I cannot say more or I would spoil something, but if you know you know), for me, enters the Olympus of the best love gestures ever written in books.
For more bookish content follow me on Instagram @onetoomanybooks.ac
Five Gold Rings was a delightful story, perfect to get ready for the Christmas period.
This book was fast paced and very funny.
The voice actress does a super nice job, but I would have loved a male actor to voice Joe. I think Joe was the strong point of this book. He was a gentleman, with golden retriever energy and a super hot and sweet persona.
Eve was a good FMC, but in this book I think Joe outshined her. He was perfect. The boy every girl deserves.
The scene when he reads the note left from Chris (I cannot say more or I would spoil something, but if you know you know), for me, enters the Olympus of the best love gestures ever written in books.
For more bookish content follow me on Instagram @onetoomanybooks.ac
October 20, 2024
This was just too all over the place to really get into. I just started to skim in self defense at the 50% mark. Eve and Joe had zero chemistry.
Full review: Keeping this short. You start off the book with the character of Eve finding out that she's been cheated on and then it tries to pivot to some comedy romance with a new person (Joe) on the scene (that she knew) who apparently has been in love with her for about a year plus.
Eve was not well developed. I don't know what her whole thing was about not telling her family about her boyfriend, except in the cases when she did. It was inconsistent and goofy. And then the whole book felt like she was mourning him, and then all of a sudden she wasn't. I think that the book should have skipped forward in time or something, because this all happening in about 3 days did not work at all.
Joe was a non-entity.
Skip this one.
Full review: Keeping this short. You start off the book with the character of Eve finding out that she's been cheated on and then it tries to pivot to some comedy romance with a new person (Joe) on the scene (that she knew) who apparently has been in love with her for about a year plus.
Eve was not well developed. I don't know what her whole thing was about not telling her family about her boyfriend, except in the cases when she did. It was inconsistent and goofy. And then the whole book felt like she was mourning him, and then all of a sudden she wasn't. I think that the book should have skipped forward in time or something, because this all happening in about 3 days did not work at all.
Joe was a non-entity.
Skip this one.
October 30, 2023
Ho, ho, ho! (that’s Santa laughing, not me calling you bitches, btw). We, Kristen Bailey fans, must have been really good this year, cause we got not one but two wonderful stories. If a few months ago we received a master class in Sex Ed, now she’s back with a sweet love story that has become MY FAVORITE HOLIDAY ROMANCE EVER! (yes, all in caps, it was that good). I can definitely say that Christmas came early this year.
The first day of Christmas brought Eve, a naked woman on her knees, noshing off her boyfriend of three years (and it rhymes! Am I a poet now?). Devastated, she goes to her employers to get some sympathy, who will put her, along her colleague Joe, on a very special task: delivering five rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings all across the city.
Five Gold Rings was the perfect blend of comedy and romance. Not as spicy as her other books, it was completely adorable from start to finish, making it a truly heartwarming and festive read filled with love, laughs and some willy jokes (I mean, it’s KB, there has to be some!). We share the same kind of humor so she always cracks me up.
Eve and Joe were like a dream come true. Their chemistry and their easy banter will have you falling in love with them right from the get go.
Eve was pretty relatable. Everyone who has ever been cheated on will easily step into her shoes. The anger, the desire for revenge, the questioning of herself, the frustration…were all so familiar. Even though she was at her lowest and her heart was broken into pieces, she was still rooting for love.
Joe was absolute perfection. He was such a nice guy! Not a hint of toxic masculinity and pretty easy on the eye. And with shorts! (I’m gonna dream about his jingle balls, I mean, bells! 😏). I loved how he listened to Eve and offered his support without trying to take advantage of her being heartbroken. He’s gonna be my book boyfriend for forever!
They were so frigging cute, together and separately, and I adored how they could be their true selves around each other, tears, snot and vomit included. I was truly sad to see this end, so I really hope we’ll get a sequel some day.
Their adventure will take us to some really funny, hilarious and ridiculous scenarios, brought vividly to life thanks to her light and engaging prose. It will show us five different kind of relationships (old love, young love, straight, gay…), but with one thing in common: true love. As Celine Dion would sing, I was all ready to learn the power of loooove.
It was fantastic to see all those cameos from old friends. I like how all the characters from her novels live in the same universe, making an appearance when you least expect it (that epilogue got me all teary 🥹).
Five Gold Rings is infused with all the holiday cheer and lots of heart. It would cheer up even the Grinch so, if you’re in the mood for some holiday read, Five Gold Rings is the perfect choice.
Thanks to Storm Books and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Kristen for allowing me to take off her massive blog tour.
The first day of Christmas brought Eve, a naked woman on her knees, noshing off her boyfriend of three years (and it rhymes! Am I a poet now?). Devastated, she goes to her employers to get some sympathy, who will put her, along her colleague Joe, on a very special task: delivering five rings destined for Christmas proposals and weddings all across the city.
Five Gold Rings was the perfect blend of comedy and romance. Not as spicy as her other books, it was completely adorable from start to finish, making it a truly heartwarming and festive read filled with love, laughs and some willy jokes (I mean, it’s KB, there has to be some!). We share the same kind of humor so she always cracks me up.
Eve and Joe were like a dream come true. Their chemistry and their easy banter will have you falling in love with them right from the get go.
Eve was pretty relatable. Everyone who has ever been cheated on will easily step into her shoes. The anger, the desire for revenge, the questioning of herself, the frustration…were all so familiar. Even though she was at her lowest and her heart was broken into pieces, she was still rooting for love.
Joe was absolute perfection. He was such a nice guy! Not a hint of toxic masculinity and pretty easy on the eye. And with shorts! (I’m gonna dream about his jingle balls, I mean, bells! 😏). I loved how he listened to Eve and offered his support without trying to take advantage of her being heartbroken. He’s gonna be my book boyfriend for forever!
They were so frigging cute, together and separately, and I adored how they could be their true selves around each other, tears, snot and vomit included. I was truly sad to see this end, so I really hope we’ll get a sequel some day.
Their adventure will take us to some really funny, hilarious and ridiculous scenarios, brought vividly to life thanks to her light and engaging prose. It will show us five different kind of relationships (old love, young love, straight, gay…), but with one thing in common: true love. As Celine Dion would sing, I was all ready to learn the power of loooove.
It was fantastic to see all those cameos from old friends. I like how all the characters from her novels live in the same universe, making an appearance when you least expect it (that epilogue got me all teary 🥹).
Five Gold Rings is infused with all the holiday cheer and lots of heart. It would cheer up even the Grinch so, if you’re in the mood for some holiday read, Five Gold Rings is the perfect choice.
Thanks to Storm Books and NetGalley for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review and to Kristen for allowing me to take off her massive blog tour.
December 5, 2023
Festive. Unexpected. and a total Holiday treat!
Five Gold Rings has a really cute premise and a heartwarming romance all wrapped in British comedic flair.
I absolutely had a blast reading this one...its slightly irreverent and zany but the core of the book is really tender and there were so many small moments that made me fall in love with it. Two co workers team up to deliver 5 gold wedding bands around town around Christmas eve. I really loved Joe and how he helped Eve to discover what love was really all about. I loved the way he helped Eve get over her breakup and how kind and genuine he was with her and everyone they interacted with.
I really enjoyed the deliveries and all the antics that they get involved in meeting new people and seeing one another in a new light. Its fresh, fun and got me into the holiday spirit.
If you want a slightly silly holiday book but one that caught me off guard with its hidden depth I highly recommend this one!
**audio was great, you just have to pay attention to the POV transfers because she doesn't change voices between the two characters.
**closed door, just kissing, crude/sexual humor, moderate strong language
Five Gold Rings has a really cute premise and a heartwarming romance all wrapped in British comedic flair.
I absolutely had a blast reading this one...its slightly irreverent and zany but the core of the book is really tender and there were so many small moments that made me fall in love with it. Two co workers team up to deliver 5 gold wedding bands around town around Christmas eve. I really loved Joe and how he helped Eve to discover what love was really all about. I loved the way he helped Eve get over her breakup and how kind and genuine he was with her and everyone they interacted with.
I really enjoyed the deliveries and all the antics that they get involved in meeting new people and seeing one another in a new light. Its fresh, fun and got me into the holiday spirit.
If you want a slightly silly holiday book but one that caught me off guard with its hidden depth I highly recommend this one!
**audio was great, you just have to pay attention to the POV transfers because she doesn't change voices between the two characters.
**closed door, just kissing, crude/sexual humor, moderate strong language
December 7, 2023
Such a cute and funny holiday romance while being behind doors.
December 11, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
A cute holiday read!
It’s closed door, but has some crude British humor (especially at the beginning). The rest of the book is sweet, funny and endearing. I loved that it switched perspectives between Joe and Eve.
It’s on Hoopla, so if you’re looking for a cute, adventure filled holiday romance then I’d recommend this. 3.5 ⭐️ is still a solid good read in my book!
A cute holiday read!
It’s closed door, but has some crude British humor (especially at the beginning). The rest of the book is sweet, funny and endearing. I loved that it switched perspectives between Joe and Eve.
It’s on Hoopla, so if you’re looking for a cute, adventure filled holiday romance then I’d recommend this. 3.5 ⭐️ is still a solid good read in my book!
September 20, 2023
A huge thank you to NetGalley for giving me a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.
I loved this book! From beginning to end. It was absolutely hysterical. I don't want to ruin the surprise and hilarity of the opening scene for anyone, so I'll jump forward a bit to where Eve and her part time co-worker, Joe, have to deliver 5 engagement/wedding rings to different people from Dec 24-25th. At every stop, some ridiculous scenario plays out where our MCs get dragged into the action, growing closer with every delivery. It's a fun holiday read, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a laugh.
I loved this book! From beginning to end. It was absolutely hysterical. I don't want to ruin the surprise and hilarity of the opening scene for anyone, so I'll jump forward a bit to where Eve and her part time co-worker, Joe, have to deliver 5 engagement/wedding rings to different people from Dec 24-25th. At every stop, some ridiculous scenario plays out where our MCs get dragged into the action, growing closer with every delivery. It's a fun holiday read, and I highly recommend it for anyone seeking a laugh.
December 6, 2025
Ha-ha-ha... what a blast! I was giggling like a lunatic from the get go 😂. This book is basically a Christmas stocking stuffed with everything: love, laughter, friendship, joy, and alllll the holiday feels 🎁🎄. What more could you ask for? This was easily one of my top holiday rom-coms of the season, and now I’m officially hooked on this author 💕📖.
Fun confession: I actually discovered this book while searching for another title by the same author... and accidentally read Five Gold Rings instead of We Three Kings 🙃. But honestly? Best mix-up ever. Because who really reads the title anyway, right? 😂✨
Fun confession: I actually discovered this book while searching for another title by the same author... and accidentally read Five Gold Rings instead of We Three Kings 🙃. But honestly? Best mix-up ever. Because who really reads the title anyway, right? 😂✨
December 10, 2023
If this book doesn’t get you in the mood for Christmas then you are officially a Grinch.
From very early on this had me chuckling away to myself and I have come to associate Kristen’s books with silly banter and perfectly timed humour, along with the obligatory knob jokes. Don’t be fooled though as this is also as stuffed as a fake Santa’s belly with heart. If you don’t tear up at ring number five there is something wrong and I suggest you seek help immediately.
Eve was instantly likeable as was her colleague Joe and every other character they came into contact with, from Mr and Mrs Caspar their bosses at the jewellers to a strange French lady and numerous family members.
Each ring has a little mini story and I loved this unique way of story telling and I didn’t want them to end. It also meant that Eve and Joe would then go their separate ways to join their families for Christmas. The will they or won’t they running through the book as they run to various addresses to deliver the rings. Well technically I should say drive in a rather festive little mini called Olive.
I could say so much more about things that I’m desperate to prattle on about but I won’t spoil it as the joy is like Christmas morning and best left as a surprise. No peeking and no spoilers!
So if you want a perfect Christmas romcom, ignore the repeats on the telly and pick up this book instead.
Merry Christmas.
From very early on this had me chuckling away to myself and I have come to associate Kristen’s books with silly banter and perfectly timed humour, along with the obligatory knob jokes. Don’t be fooled though as this is also as stuffed as a fake Santa’s belly with heart. If you don’t tear up at ring number five there is something wrong and I suggest you seek help immediately.
Eve was instantly likeable as was her colleague Joe and every other character they came into contact with, from Mr and Mrs Caspar their bosses at the jewellers to a strange French lady and numerous family members.
Each ring has a little mini story and I loved this unique way of story telling and I didn’t want them to end. It also meant that Eve and Joe would then go their separate ways to join their families for Christmas. The will they or won’t they running through the book as they run to various addresses to deliver the rings. Well technically I should say drive in a rather festive little mini called Olive.
I could say so much more about things that I’m desperate to prattle on about but I won’t spoil it as the joy is like Christmas morning and best left as a surprise. No peeking and no spoilers!
So if you want a perfect Christmas romcom, ignore the repeats on the telly and pick up this book instead.
Merry Christmas.
December 12, 2023
4.5 stars rated up. RTC
December 9, 2023
Divine! Sublime!
I won't beat about the bush, just say that--save for Dickens' A Christmas Carol--this is the best Christmas story I've ever read! And I've certainly read a few over the years.
Love Actually meets Last Christmas are the comps that come to mind, albeit those are movies. After listening to 5 Gold Rings on audio, I was struck how beautiful this will be when it's picked up by Netflix. I say when because surely they're going to see how amazing this story is and how cinematic it is in and around the streets of London. If any executive from Netflix or Amazon or Apple TV are reading this review, which I know is one in a billion chance, then please, please, pick this up! And speak immediately with Emilia Clarke about portraying Eve.
A brief synopsis: Eve arrives home on December 23, only to find her boyfriend in a compromising position. Cue tragic breakup, sending her accidentally into the path of co-worker Joe. Both Joe and Eve work together, part-time, at an oldey-worldey, family-run jewellers. Well blow me down if the old man hasn't made a mix-up with the orders! The five gold engagement rings that should have gone out to those happy would-be engaged folks, have only gone to a dinner party instead!
Eve and Joe set out to retrieve the rings and deliver each one to their one's rightful new owner. What we get is a charming series of six almost-vignettes (that includes retrieving the package of rings as well as the five deliveries) all while Joe struggles with his unrequited love for Eve. To him, Eve is perfect but he's never been able to tell her so because he's that kind of guy--he would never come between two partners. Except now that Eve is single... so what is a helpless man in love to do? The answer is remind Eve of the magic of Christmas and show her what her true worth is. But will Eve's eyes the open in time for Christmas, before they are parted and their adventures around London are ended? Is this magical period their window of opportunity into new lives?
There are many ways that you know when you are enjoying one of the very best literary experiences of your life. When you can't stop thinking about the characters, when you end up listening to the audio for six hours without a break, and when you think about the story and understand that even if you took out one major element of that story, it would still be a brilliant story. I don't read very many het romances, Christmas is really the only time of year I do, probably because such an amazing selection is available set in and around Christmas time. But if Five Gold Rings was a romance without the Christmas backdrop, it would still be brilliant. If it was a Christmas story of two friends without the romance, this would still be brilliant.
Kristen Bailey is not an author I've read before, but whom I will be revisiting in the coming weeks. Five Gold Rings is simply *amazing*, one of the best Christmas rom-coms you're ever likely to read.
I won't beat about the bush, just say that--save for Dickens' A Christmas Carol--this is the best Christmas story I've ever read! And I've certainly read a few over the years.
Love Actually meets Last Christmas are the comps that come to mind, albeit those are movies. After listening to 5 Gold Rings on audio, I was struck how beautiful this will be when it's picked up by Netflix. I say when because surely they're going to see how amazing this story is and how cinematic it is in and around the streets of London. If any executive from Netflix or Amazon or Apple TV are reading this review, which I know is one in a billion chance, then please, please, pick this up! And speak immediately with Emilia Clarke about portraying Eve.
A brief synopsis: Eve arrives home on December 23, only to find her boyfriend in a compromising position. Cue tragic breakup, sending her accidentally into the path of co-worker Joe. Both Joe and Eve work together, part-time, at an oldey-worldey, family-run jewellers. Well blow me down if the old man hasn't made a mix-up with the orders! The five gold engagement rings that should have gone out to those happy would-be engaged folks, have only gone to a dinner party instead!
Eve and Joe set out to retrieve the rings and deliver each one to their one's rightful new owner. What we get is a charming series of six almost-vignettes (that includes retrieving the package of rings as well as the five deliveries) all while Joe struggles with his unrequited love for Eve. To him, Eve is perfect but he's never been able to tell her so because he's that kind of guy--he would never come between two partners. Except now that Eve is single... so what is a helpless man in love to do? The answer is remind Eve of the magic of Christmas and show her what her true worth is. But will Eve's eyes the open in time for Christmas, before they are parted and their adventures around London are ended? Is this magical period their window of opportunity into new lives?
There are many ways that you know when you are enjoying one of the very best literary experiences of your life. When you can't stop thinking about the characters, when you end up listening to the audio for six hours without a break, and when you think about the story and understand that even if you took out one major element of that story, it would still be a brilliant story. I don't read very many het romances, Christmas is really the only time of year I do, probably because such an amazing selection is available set in and around Christmas time. But if Five Gold Rings was a romance without the Christmas backdrop, it would still be brilliant. If it was a Christmas story of two friends without the romance, this would still be brilliant.
Kristen Bailey is not an author I've read before, but whom I will be revisiting in the coming weeks. Five Gold Rings is simply *amazing*, one of the best Christmas rom-coms you're ever likely to read.
November 17, 2023
This is a nice feel-good Christmas romance. It starts with Eve’s world falling apart when she catches her fiancé in the shower with another woman. It looks like it’s going to be the worst Christmas ever, but then as she goes on a quest to deliver 5 rings to different couples in love with her co-worker Joe, she discovers love is worth pursuing.
It was a fun book and the adventures were sweet and put a smile on my face. I think if you love Christmas romances, this is one you should consider reading. The story happens over 3 days. Can you discover true love in 3 days? There’s one way to find out.
I want to thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for a copy of the audiobook. The narrator, Harrie Donny, did a wonderful job. This opinion is freely given.
It was a fun book and the adventures were sweet and put a smile on my face. I think if you love Christmas romances, this is one you should consider reading. The story happens over 3 days. Can you discover true love in 3 days? There’s one way to find out.
I want to thank NetGalley and Storm Publishing for a copy of the audiobook. The narrator, Harrie Donny, did a wonderful job. This opinion is freely given.
October 27, 2023
3.5 rounded up.
A fun holiday romance that sees two strangers/semi-co-workers working together to deliver five rings to customers in time for Christmas. Perfect for fans of authors like Beth O'Leary and Catherine Walsh, this was a feel-good, mad cap adventure/road trip type Hallmark movie style romance. Good on audio too. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
A fun holiday romance that sees two strangers/semi-co-workers working together to deliver five rings to customers in time for Christmas. Perfect for fans of authors like Beth O'Leary and Catherine Walsh, this was a feel-good, mad cap adventure/road trip type Hallmark movie style romance. Good on audio too. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
December 27, 2023
3.5 stars rounding down to 3 stars on Goodreads. This was very hallmark-esk but there was minimal spicy in this book which I was expecting. This really started out with a bang and was a funny story. I listened to this as an audiobook and at times it was hard to keep track of who was talking as there was a single narrator for 2 POV.
If you decide to pick this one up, I suggest reading it instead of listening to the audiobook.
If you decide to pick this one up, I suggest reading it instead of listening to the audiobook.
December 20, 2023
I am on a roll!!!! I LOVED THIS BOOK! It was hilarious and had me hooked from page 1!!!! If you're needing a funny, light hearted but feels different type of Holiday book, stop what you're doing and READ THIS!!! It was absolutely perfect! I am OBSESSED with Joe. The trope of the guy has been secretly pinning for the girl and has the biggest crush on her is like my new fav trope! 😍🫶 It's absolutely PRECIOUS! I'm just sad this is over now.
I was DYING at a couple scenes like full on laughing out loud. I'm not a big romcoms person these days but this was just 😂👏🏻😍!!!! A new Christmas fav!
I was DYING at a couple scenes like full on laughing out loud. I'm not a big romcoms person these days but this was just 😂👏🏻😍!!!! A new Christmas fav!
December 5, 2023
I'm a little confused why this doesn't have higher ratings.
It was hilarious, charming, heartfelt, dripping in Christmas and had the sweetest romance.
My only criticism is that I wanted the epilogue to be longer.
**the humor is irreverent and may be too much for some people but I laughed my arse off in certain parts. Take that as you will.
It was hilarious, charming, heartfelt, dripping in Christmas and had the sweetest romance.
My only criticism is that I wanted the epilogue to be longer.
**the humor is irreverent and may be too much for some people but I laughed my arse off in certain parts. Take that as you will.
October 23, 2023
When I read a Rom/Com there are a few things I need:
1. A male character who is manly. I am fine with him being artsy, skinny, glasses, smart, a good cook, appreciative of the arts but at the end of the day I want a man to be emotionally strong, and by under no circumstances GIGGLE. Joe giggled. (strike 1)
2. A main female character I can cheer for. Even if I have nothing in common with them I at least have to like them. I felt no friendship with her. Maybe because the fact she was drunk for most of the book (Strike that, the author would have her wave in and out of drunkedness...very unrealistic) She was just too dramatic and sloppy for me to like.
3.Chemistry-There was about as much Chemistry in this book as there would be at a English Faculty department meeting on a Tuesday afternoon
The idea behind this book was cute, exactly what you would want to get into the mood of Christmas. But even from the opening scene that outlined (in too much detail) about Eve's cheating boyfriend. I wish the author had done a more "off the page" style cheating, this was not done in a tasteful way. (Strike 2) Also the amount of references to poop/pee was very amateur writing. Overall the book felt silly, the situations the characters found themselves in and conversations they had would appeal more to a young teen than probably the 25+ age women this book is written for.
Maybe I am just the scrooge but it was too much "Whoovile" Silly-ness for me.
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to review this advanced copy of Five Gold Rings in exchange for my honest review. I was not influenced or paid for my honest opinion.
1. A male character who is manly. I am fine with him being artsy, skinny, glasses, smart, a good cook, appreciative of the arts but at the end of the day I want a man to be emotionally strong, and by under no circumstances GIGGLE. Joe giggled. (strike 1)
2. A main female character I can cheer for. Even if I have nothing in common with them I at least have to like them. I felt no friendship with her. Maybe because the fact she was drunk for most of the book (Strike that, the author would have her wave in and out of drunkedness...very unrealistic) She was just too dramatic and sloppy for me to like.
3.Chemistry-There was about as much Chemistry in this book as there would be at a English Faculty department meeting on a Tuesday afternoon
The idea behind this book was cute, exactly what you would want to get into the mood of Christmas. But even from the opening scene that outlined (in too much detail) about Eve's cheating boyfriend. I wish the author had done a more "off the page" style cheating, this was not done in a tasteful way. (Strike 2) Also the amount of references to poop/pee was very amateur writing. Overall the book felt silly, the situations the characters found themselves in and conversations they had would appeal more to a young teen than probably the 25+ age women this book is written for.
Maybe I am just the scrooge but it was too much "Whoovile" Silly-ness for me.
Thank you Netgalley for allowing me to review this advanced copy of Five Gold Rings in exchange for my honest review. I was not influenced or paid for my honest opinion.
March 6, 2024
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
My first Christmas book of the year and it did NOT disappoint ❄️
What a wonderfully emotional read. I won’t lie, I went into it thinking that it was going to be a run of the mill soft romance, and whilst it definitely fell under that category, the author managed to craft a lovely, feel-good story that encouraged genuine connection with the main characters and their families & friends.
The rhythm of the story was spot on and I thoroughly enjoyed the different tangents that the storyline took whilst Eve & Joe were delivering the rings. I loved that we got an insight into the minor characters’ lives and the whole book had a cosy feel to it that I typically expect from a holiday romance.
Admittedly, I didn’t enjoy Eve’s character as much as I did Joe's. I found her to be altogether too selfish for my liking and I felt almost sorry for Joe at certain points; however, the overall connection between them was sweet and it certainly didn’t sour my enjoyment of the book.
I’m very happy that this was my first seasonal read of the year and I would definitely recommend it to others!
My first Christmas book of the year and it did NOT disappoint ❄️
What a wonderfully emotional read. I won’t lie, I went into it thinking that it was going to be a run of the mill soft romance, and whilst it definitely fell under that category, the author managed to craft a lovely, feel-good story that encouraged genuine connection with the main characters and their families & friends.
The rhythm of the story was spot on and I thoroughly enjoyed the different tangents that the storyline took whilst Eve & Joe were delivering the rings. I loved that we got an insight into the minor characters’ lives and the whole book had a cosy feel to it that I typically expect from a holiday romance.
Admittedly, I didn’t enjoy Eve’s character as much as I did Joe's. I found her to be altogether too selfish for my liking and I felt almost sorry for Joe at certain points; however, the overall connection between them was sweet and it certainly didn’t sour my enjoyment of the book.
I’m very happy that this was my first seasonal read of the year and I would definitely recommend it to others!
December 1, 2025
Audiobook
Eve is excited for another wonderful Christmas until she comes home and finds her boyfriend in an embarrassing situation. Reeling from the betrayal, her bosses at the local jewelry store send her with a coworker to deliver some mixed-up rings for the holiday. Coworker Joe has been secretly crushing on Eve. Can he support her as a friend, or something more?
I have been binge-reading Kristen Bailey lately, and this is another charming romance. It's silly and sweet, perfect for a Hallmark-like story! This has much less spice than I’m used to from her recent books, but it still has just as much heart and holiday cheer!
Eve is excited for another wonderful Christmas until she comes home and finds her boyfriend in an embarrassing situation. Reeling from the betrayal, her bosses at the local jewelry store send her with a coworker to deliver some mixed-up rings for the holiday. Coworker Joe has been secretly crushing on Eve. Can he support her as a friend, or something more?
I have been binge-reading Kristen Bailey lately, and this is another charming romance. It's silly and sweet, perfect for a Hallmark-like story! This has much less spice than I’m used to from her recent books, but it still has just as much heart and holiday cheer!
December 9, 2023
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, for an ARC of this book, in exchange for honest feedback.
I would like to start by saying that I loved the story as a whole, I laughed a few times, and really liked the idea behind the title.
After a very unfortunate situation with her current boyfriend, Eve really needed someone like Joe to get her through Christmas. The holiday vibes were strong I this book, and while I did really enjoy the book, I was not feeling the romance vibes from Joe and Eve. I get that Joe had feelings for Eve long before the timeline of the book, but it was hard to believe that Eve “fell” for Joe, because there were no real interactions from her perspective that made it believable… From Joe’s perspective of course, because he was I love with Eve before this timeline.
I am going to give this book 4 stars, because I liked the characters and the story a lot. Less 1 star for the sort of unbelievable love story.
I recommend this read to anyone looking for a great holiday read!
I would like to start by saying that I loved the story as a whole, I laughed a few times, and really liked the idea behind the title.
After a very unfortunate situation with her current boyfriend, Eve really needed someone like Joe to get her through Christmas. The holiday vibes were strong I this book, and while I did really enjoy the book, I was not feeling the romance vibes from Joe and Eve. I get that Joe had feelings for Eve long before the timeline of the book, but it was hard to believe that Eve “fell” for Joe, because there were no real interactions from her perspective that made it believable… From Joe’s perspective of course, because he was I love with Eve before this timeline.
I am going to give this book 4 stars, because I liked the characters and the story a lot. Less 1 star for the sort of unbelievable love story.
I recommend this read to anyone looking for a great holiday read!
November 6, 2023
This cute, funny, enjoyable story made my day while reading. It lifted my spirits and I enjoyed it from the first til the last page. Perfect feel-good romance. I will read this author in the future for sure.
December 31, 2023
My last book of 2023! Sweet and funny story, maybe a bit rushed, and it predictably got cheesy once Eve realised she was developing feelings for the very lovely Joe, but it was still a really nice way to end my bookish year.
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