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Christmas in Spite of You

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A neat freak Scrooge and a Christmas-loving ball of chaos must coexist for a week, and the friction and separation that ensue make the most magical time of the year highly remarkable.

After pumping her hard-earned savings into a business plan that doesn’t pan out, Noel Anderson is left financially strapped and needs a way to earn money to stay afloat. She decides to rent her apartment as an Airbnb for the Christmas holidays while visiting her family for Christmas. What she didn’t plan on was coming down ill and having to cancel the trip.

Kanton Joseph is on the cusp of securing a lucrative business deal. In order to get a one-up on his competition, he rents an Airbnb in the same apartment complex where his potential client resides. He’s surprised when he shows up, and the owner of the Airbnb not only wants to cancel the reservation but is still occupying the space.


With great reluctance, Noel and Kanton agree to cohabitate for one week. Noel attempts to stay out of Kanton’s way, but they undoubtedly cross paths, causing friction between them. They immediately clash on everything, most notably with their views on the holidays. Noel is determined to have a very Merry Christmas despite her temporary housemate, which is the source of Kanton’s irritation. Eventually, the two begin to soften toward each other and Kanton learns to view things through Noel’s eyes.

Will the holiday magic fizzle, or will these two spark a connection they didn’t realize they needed?

258 pages, Kindle Edition

First published September 24, 2024

1091 people are currently reading
6094 people want to read

About the author

K.C. Mills

198 books1,672 followers
KC Mills is an international bestselling author, speaker, and CEO. Ranked along with well respected authors, Mills has over 100 books which have hit number 1 bestsellers. She has proven herself as a leader in her industry with over 120 successful books written and published within a five year timeframe. She is committed to bringing exceptional literary works that offer a romantic twist, as well as subtlety veering away from the norm. She still however leaves you captivated by her stories, characters and always wanting more. Mills’ current focus is her cross over to the script writing arena where she will begin writing for some of Atlanta’s top production companies and the nation’s most notable television networks.

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5 stars
1,698 (32%)
4 stars
2,125 (40%)
3 stars
1,156 (22%)
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46 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 887 reviews
Profile Image for Shawnaci Schroeder.
519 reviews4,395 followers
November 27, 2024
4/5 ⭐️

- This is probably one of my favorite Christmas reads of the year!! It’s the perfect balance between the spice and the storyline. Loved the forced proximity!
- Both of the characters felt so real and I could really feel their love. I’ve never read anything by this author and I definitely will read more in the future!
- I usually get bored with Christmas romances because they’re a bit predictable, but I was invested in this one from beginning to end!
Profile Image for Annette Williams.
1,188 reviews414 followers
November 23, 2024
3.5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️

Noel is broke and she needs money fast. Okay, she’s not broke broke but, her pockets are definitely light and she needs to start bringin' in some kind of earned income with the quickness. On a wing and a prayer, Noel decided to cash out her retirement account and use all of her savings to start a virtual interior design company that has been less than profitable. She’s gotten a few contracts here and there but, nothing that’s going to get her out of the red anytime soon. Her bestie talks her into listing her apartment with Shared Space. Now, Noel would prefer not to have strangers in her personal space but, the bills are piling up and sis needs money expeditiously.

Kanton is headed to Atlanta for a last ditch effort to land a lucrative account for his global restructuring firm. Because this unexpected business trip is during the week of Christmas, getting a hotel room is virtually impossible. So, his assistant books him a listing through Shared Space. Before he leaves, Kanton verifies the reservation has been approved and all of the necessary passcodes to allow him entry have been sent. Well, color him confused when he pulls up to the apartment to find the owner still occupying the space he’s paid for. What happens when these two, reluctantly agree to cohabitate for the next seven days?

Christmas In Spite of You was giving opposites attract with a lil forced proximity thrown in. Noel is a holiday girly who loves all things Christmas and Kanton is a modern day Scrooge who thinks Christmas is just another day unworthy of all the hoopla. Noel is determined to get Kanton to, at least, fall in deep like with the holidays before he returns to NYC. If holiday romances are your jam, then you’ll want to add Christmas In Spite of You to your holiday TBR. While I didn’t necessarily feel deeply invested in these characters, I did enjoy the feel good vibes. This story will pair nicely with the upcoming holiday season. Thank you to Black Odyssey Media and NetGalley for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Profile Image for Rashawnda.
1,391 reviews1,113 followers
November 21, 2024
How it started: 🎶 Oh, there's no place like home for the holidays🎶 🏡🎄

How it ended: 🎶 And forevermore, that's how you'll stay. That's why darling, it's incredible, that someone so unforgettable, thinks that I am unforgettable too🎶

“If a choice has to be made, it will alway be you”

Hallmark met up with BET+ and gave us the absolute cutest forced proximity holiday romance with “Christmas in Spite of You”💚❤️

Noel has been struggling financially after betting on herself and starting an online interior design staging business. She if confident in her abilities and even has a few clients to show for it however the business is bleeding her dry and with her back against the wall and at the recommendation of a friend, decides to rent her apartment on an Airbnb’ish type of site in an effort to create some cash flow. After getting sick during the holidays, she fails to cancel a booking and is now left sharing her space with modern day Scrooge.

Kanton is a successful business man! He’s so successful that he makes a living by saving other businesses and now at the height of his career he is ready to broker one of the largest deals to date. All he wants for Christmas is a signed contract and an even fatter bank account however he got way more than he anticipated when the apartment he rented came with Mrs. Holiday Cheer herself.

I know Christmas hates to see Noel coming. She’s my type of Christmas lover from accepting nothing less than a real tree to all out decorations and movies and fuzzy socks and holiday pjs. Kanton and Noel had no idea that the best gift this holiday season was way too big to be found under the tree.

🎄It was Noel’s Christmas gifts to Kanton for me 🔫🏎️ 🥰
🎁 It was Kanton’s effort to bring Noel joy for me 🥞💻🎄
🎄 It was Simone telling Noel to slide down that South Pole for me ayeeeee everyone needs a bestie handing out reckless advice like diner hotcakes!

If you’re looking for a cute angst free, feel good story this holiday seasons then look no further.
Profile Image for Brittany.
136 reviews2,323 followers
November 8, 2024
This was too damn cute. NOEL was all thing “christmasssy” and Kanton was all things “I’ll do anything to see Noel smile”

This was full of witty banter and cute little spicy scenes. Definitely add to your holiday TBR!!
Profile Image for Zoë.
809 reviews1,592 followers
November 28, 2024
i have so many words to say but i think mainly christmas books are really not for me
Profile Image for Erin Rae.
364 reviews24 followers
December 6, 2024
Despite the audiobook being just ok, I actually did end up liking the story as a whole.
Profile Image for Anayah.
480 reviews1 follower
April 28, 2025
I admit, this was cute! It was slightly insta-lust but also slow burn for the length of the book it was. I did appreciate the quirky parts and the slow burn, as well as the obvious use of tropes within the book. I love feel good Christmas/fall/winter novels, I'll probably always give them a chance.

I have no gripes about the book, I just personally like books that have a bit more emotional depth. For what it was (and the purpose of it's content), it did exactly what it needed to do!

⭐️⭐️⭐️ black author: black humor and culture done VERY well, VERY tasteful
⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ black love
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ black wealth
⭐️⭐️ ⭐️ very intentional MMC that learns to openly communicate how he feels
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ great display of different types of romantic breakups (emotionally mature, and bitter exes)
⭐️ Spicy chapters: approx. 50% in (both Kanton and Noel POV) and 72% in [the chapters were not numbered, so proceed with caution if you will. I didn't read the smut so I cannot rate that for you]
Profile Image for HeyItsNeeks.
46 reviews14 followers
November 11, 2024
I just finished reading Christmas in Spite of You, and while I wanted to get swept up in the story, I found it hard to truly connect with the main characters. It was definitely a cute, feel-good read with major Hallmark vibes, so if you enjoy that kind of cozy holiday romance, this might be right up your alley.

I especially loved the dialogue between Noel and her friend; their banter felt authentic and added a nice touch of humor. However, I was hoping to see more of Noel in her girl boss, entrepreneur era. The potential was there, but it didn’t fully deliver on that aspect for me. Overall, it's a sweet holiday read, but I found myself wanting a bit more depth and development.
Profile Image for Lette Reads.
248 reviews70 followers
December 17, 2024
This was cute although Noel got on my nerves about that Christmas tree.
Profile Image for Lit_Vibrations .
412 reviews37 followers
September 17, 2024
Special thanks to the author & @iamblackodyssey for my advanced copy.

Another Christmas read in September somebody stop me now‼️

This was my first book by K.C. Mills and it was super cute. The author perfectly crafts a heartwarming read filled with romance, spice, passion, miscommunication, and of course a little drama. There was a slow build in the beginning but the premise was interesting enough to keep me engaged. Sharing your place with a complete stranger for the week because of a minor Airbnb mistake sounds outrageous. But it turned into the best week Noel and Kanton ever experienced.

Their relationship unfolded rather quickly at the expense of Kanton’s generosity. He wasn’t into the holiday’s much but it was something about Noel that brought out a different side of him. He was dropping a bag and didn’t even know this woman. Despite Noel’s initial irritation with Kanton she couldn’t deny there being a strong connection between the two or her physical attraction to him.

Kanton’s character was absolutely irresistible it was really his wordplay for me. Noel on the other hand was the hopeless romantic who still believed in love even though her last relationship took her through it. Them coming together was fate and Kanton proved to Noel why he was the perfect match for her even if their current situation was temporary. The run-ins with each other’s ex and the heat they brought in the bedroom was the highlight of the book for me.

Overall, I enjoyed this one and definitely recommend for the holidays. Everything was well-balanced from the dual perspectives, gaining insight on their backstories and past relationships, and seeing their feelings for each other being brought to the forefront. The author also explored themes of letting go of past heartbreaks, opening up to someone new, and the complexities surrounding uncertainty. Here’s another good read to add to your holiday TBR.
Profile Image for Ro_Monique_.
183 reviews9 followers
December 17, 2025
12/2025: Still hits on re-read. All the holiday vibes. Forced proximity romance and conversion of a Grinch into a Christmas lover.
11/2024: 5 stars. Favorite holiday read of the season.
Profile Image for monica ✨ romantasyreader.
737 reviews1,187 followers
December 4, 2024
Super bingeable Christmas romances are a fav 🤌

Noel & Kanton are forced to spend a week over Christmas together due to a mixup with a Airbnb type deal. The forced proximity was delicioussssss. Kanton was down so bad and OBSESSED and I loved him. Noel is quirky and cute and Kanton loved that about her and I loved him for that. All the Christmas vibes are perfect for this time of year.

Shout out to Noel���s bestie Simone. Their friendship was so heartwarming. We love supportive friends.

The only thing I didn’t love about this was the OW drama/miscommunication at the end. Noel was going for her grand gesture and ugh I just hate OW drama. (There’s no cheating or anything it’s a complete misunderstanding) but still.

🎧 Ebony Ford and Tony Roberts did such an amazing job with the narration. I love emotional narrators and they were so perfect.

what to expect
⟢ forced proximity
⟢ opposites attract
⟢ only for the week vibes
Profile Image for Dahyana.
694 reviews85 followers
December 12, 2024
Noel x Kanton

What a fun read! The Christmas spirit I was searching for was definitely present. Noel’s love for Christmas was so refreshing. I absolutely adore an enemies-to-lovers plot, and this story delivered just the right amount of it, perfectly paired with the holiday season.

Kanton, a wunderkind in his field, is determined to land a big new client and will do whatever it takes—even if it means cohabitating with his Shared Space landlord. Despite the initial friction between them, the attraction was undeniable and strong.

Noel truly stole my heart during the gift exchange with such a beautiful and thoughtful gesture🥹. Noel effortlessly softened Ebenezer Scrooge's heart while simultaneously falling in love with him. Just beautiful.
Profile Image for Sha Sha.
244 reviews17 followers
December 8, 2025
Christmas in Spite of you
3.5/5⭐️
Cute Christmas hallmark vibes story: Noel& Kanton
Profile Image for Brooke ♡.
305 reviews39 followers
November 18, 2025
5/5 stars

I don't think yall understand just how much i loved this book omg. This was SOOOOOOOO GOOD!!!! Canton and Noel >>>>>>>>> omg. I picked this book on Libby on a whim and im so glad i did. The way the plot unfolded and the way they just fell into each other and the holiday spirit???? omg. PUHLEASE!!!!! I'm so glad Evan got what he deserved as well, cause I hate when the terrible ex doesn't get what's coming to them. Yet there isn't a thing about this book I would change. No notes.

The pacing, the development of their relationship and just UGHHHHHHH.

I can't lie my eyes also almost started sweating during the part where Canton was opening his christmas gifts? Whew lawd they almost had to carry me out of work when i tell yall my chestttttt.

The only thing I do wish is that we got a little bit more information about what happened with her business she was attempting to start- although I guess it didn't really matter since she ended up with Canton (not a spoiler he's the MMC LOL!!) but yeah. Just a lil detail i wish we got more info about, but nothing big truly.

Overall, pick this up if you need to get into the holiday spirit or want a really good Christmas romance book!!!!!
Profile Image for Wobilba.
851 reviews131 followers
December 28, 2024
This was a very cutesy Christmas read. I liked both characters(I may have found Noel a bit annoying in the beginning but got over it very quickly). MCs both had excellent chemistry.

I listened to the audiobook and I did find the narration a little slow and boring.

Story/ 3.5 🌟🌟🌟✨
Narration: 🌟🌟🌟
Profile Image for Markita_Reads.
592 reviews25 followers
June 14, 2024
♡𝐞𝐀𝐫𝐜 𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰♡
4.5🌟
-
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 :
•Christmas vibes
•Cindy lou vs. The Grinch || grumpy vs. sunshine
•black love | romance
•forced proximity
-
If you want black romance mixed with Hallmark Christmas movies, vibes with a bash of forces proximity and grumpy vs. Sunshines 🌞 vibes? This book is highly recommended for you.
𝑰𝒇 𝒋𝒖𝒅𝒈𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒂 𝒃𝒐𝒐𝒌 𝒃𝒚 𝒊𝒕𝒔 𝒄𝒐𝒗𝒆𝒓 𝒘𝒂𝒔 𝒑𝒆𝒓𝒔𝒐𝒏. 𝑰𝒕 𝒘𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒃𝒆 𝑴𝑬!
𝐑𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 Sept.24
-
Thank you, Netgalley, and Black Odyssey Media for the (eArc). -eBook for my honest review.
Profile Image for Latoya (jamaicangirlreads).
230 reviews44 followers
December 10, 2025
oooooo this was cute and sexyyyyy!!! and it really gave all the comfort Christmas feels. I was rubbing my feet together with excitement reading this!
Profile Image for Ty.
555 reviews117 followers
December 4, 2024
This was an absolutely delightful and festive holiday romance! I thoroughly enjoyed both the main characters, Noel being the free spirited Christmas enthusiast and Kanton who’s all about work and could care less about the holidays. Their different personalities created a fun dynamic and it was heartwarming to see their connection turn into a sweet romance. The story is packed with charming holiday activities like Christmas shopping and ornament making that truly immerse you in the magic of the season. If you’re looking for a quick feel good read to get you into the Christmas spirit, this book is the perfect choice!
Profile Image for Darcy J..
317 reviews
November 17, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ and 2🌶️

"You want to tongue him down under the mistletoe, do that too. You want him to be your lay in a manger? My vote is yes."

• All the cozy Christmas vibes - reads like a movie. Put it on Netflix!
• Noel is Christmas obsessed and I love it because girl, same!
• Kanton is a little scrooge but for good reason. His version of Christmas sounded miserable vs how Noel celebrated. I would probably hate it too
• The banter! I love when characters have a lot of dialogue and have fun with it as well
• Simone and her sexy Christmas puns were everything 😂
• I wish we saw the push and pull between Lauren and Noel
• Definitely going on my shelf and will recommend for the holiday
✨Forced Proximity
✨Light Enemies to Lovers
✨Scrooge vs. Christmas Queen
Profile Image for Narrha.
149 reviews1 follower
December 12, 2024
This was such a cute Christmas read. This book gave me the feel of “Only for the Week” by Natasha Bishop, but make it Christmas. Loved Kanton and Noel’s banter in this book because it gave me a funny, feisty and lovey dovey vibe. The book had more depth than I expected and I thoroughly enjoyed that. Overall, 4.5/5 ⭐️
Profile Image for Kris Book Reads.
159 reviews153 followers
December 16, 2024
3⭐️ - This story was full of adorable, feel-good moments! I loved the unique meet-cute and the charming Hallmark movie vibes.
Profile Image for Marianne Carter.
34 reviews
December 29, 2024
Cheesy en titi, surtout au début, mais une fois que tu embarques dans l’histoire, c’est difficile d’arrêter la lecture. J’ai aimé le lire malgré que la rencontre est peu réaliste. J’ai apprécié les relations saines, autant la relation d’amour que d’amitié entre Noel et Simone.
En outre, ça vrm po besoin d’être le temps des fêtes pour lire ce livre.
Aussi, ma première lecture sur ma propre Kindle, yehaww
Profile Image for Jaleesa.
402 reviews53 followers
December 8, 2024
Someone get Netflix on the phone because I need to be watching an adaptation of Christmas In Spire of You next year!!!! KC Mills never disappoints so it’s not surprising how much I loved Noel and Kanton. It really read like a movie and had all the things I love in a Christmas story. The grumpy/sunshine, the corny Christmas activities, and the grand gesture. Made me want to decorate my tree immediately! Thanks so much to KC Mills and Black Odyssey Media for the ARC.
Profile Image for Kaila.
444 reviews11 followers
May 17, 2024
Christmas In Spite Of You is a wonderful Christmas romance that will leave you with all the feels! I don't think there is a couple I love more than Noel and Kanton!

Noel loves the holidays and embraces it to the fullest. She has a lot to be grateful for - a close-knit family, a supportive best friend, her own business. This year, however, her business has been struggling and she needs money. She decides to rent out her apartment on Shared Space for the week of Christmas while she visits her family.
Kanton owns a successful financial restructuring firm and is dedicated to his work. He wants to take his company to the top, so when he is presented with the possibility to secure a multi-million dollar deal, he immediately jumps on it. He doesn't mind missing out on Christmas, especially considering he's never had the best experience with Christmas and the holiday season in general. He rents an apartment on Shared Space and heads down to Atlanta the week of Christmas. He is hopeful until he arrives and finds the owner still in her apartment. Noel is not leaving, and Kanton needs this deal, so they're forced to make it work.

I loved everything about this book! Noel is such a ray of sunshine - she is hopeful, she is funny, she's a romantic, she is a breath of fresh air. Kanton, on the other hand, is all business. He is a grump and a bit of a scrooge, however he has his reasons.
I just knew I was going to love these two from their very first interaction. They are complete opposites, with one loving Christmas and the other not caring for it. Being forced to cohabitate together during the holidays, Kanton and Noel start forming a connection that's undeniable. It was refreshing watching Kanton open up and Noel start to give in. The spicy scenes were definitely there, and by the end of each of them I was rooting for Kanton and Noel more and more! And I loved Simone! We all need one of her in our lives lol.
A spicy, romantic holiday read! 5 stars!

Thank you NetGalley, Black Odyssey, and K.C. Mills for such a delightful ARC!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 887 reviews

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