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Actor Davis Hart’s career is in a death spiral after her drunken sleep-and-tell outs the star of their hit television show. Hoping time and distance will offer a new start, Davis returns to her small hometown where it’s Christmas year-round and the community theater where she honed her acting skills draws thousands of tourists every year. Only everything has changed. The theater is struggling to stay open, and its last hope is a mesmerizing hazel-eyed woman with a grant to produce an original holiday play.
Playwright and director Asia du Muir is serious and very focused on her career. She’s finished her education at Columbia University and hopes a fellowship grant to write and produce a play at a community theater will launch her career. She’s not going to let some party girl actress ruin her best chance to get noticed by a Broadway critic.
Neither of them expects the feelings they can’t deny, but everyone knows personal and professional relationships shouldn’t be mixed. Is their love destined to wait in the wings?
Playwright and director Asia du Muir is serious and very focused on her career. She’s finished her education at Columbia University and hopes a fellowship grant to write and produce a play at a community theater will launch her career. She’s not going to let some party girl actress ruin her best chance to get noticed by a Broadway critic.
Neither of them expects the feelings they can’t deny, but everyone knows personal and professional relationships shouldn’t be mixed. Is their love destined to wait in the wings?
216 pages, Paperback
Published November 12, 2024
8 people are currently reading
61 people want to read
About the author
D. Jackson Leigh
28 books213 followersD. Jackson Leigh grew up barefoot and happy, swimming in farm ponds and riding rude ponies in rural south Georgia. Her love of reading was nurtured early on by her grandmother, an English teacher who patiently taught her to work New York Times crossword puzzles in the daily paper, and by her mother who stretched the slim family budget to bring home grocery store copies of Trixie Belden mysteries and Bobbsey Twins adventures that Jackson would sit up all night reading.
It was her passion for writing led her quite accidentally to a career in journalism and, ultimately, North Carolina where she lives with her small pack of three terror, uh, terriers.
It was her passion for writing led her quite accidentally to a career in journalism and, ultimately, North Carolina where she lives with her small pack of three terror, uh, terriers.
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
November 15, 2024
Davis Hart returns to her hometown after a scandal gets her fired from a popular tv series. In the beginning she is a heroine you aren’t rooting for as she takes no accountability for her actions and blames others. But while at home caring for her mother who is recovering from surgery she finds enjoyment in helping out at the local community theater. Asia du Muir is the director and playwright for the current production having gotten a grant. This is an opportunity that can really help launch her career. Davis helps in coaching the student actors.
I like that Davis has growth during the storyline. But I didn’t really understand Asia’s attraction to Davis. It goes from, you only want to get into my pants, to sure why not, in the blink of an eye. I didn’t get the reasons. I enjoyed some of the funny bits including the appearance on the cooking show. I’ve read a lot of holiday romances this year. And while this story is fine I didn’t find anything that made it stand out or memorable for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the digital copy and I am leaving an honest review.
I like that Davis has growth during the storyline. But I didn’t really understand Asia’s attraction to Davis. It goes from, you only want to get into my pants, to sure why not, in the blink of an eye. I didn’t get the reasons. I enjoyed some of the funny bits including the appearance on the cooking show. I’ve read a lot of holiday romances this year. And while this story is fine I didn’t find anything that made it stand out or memorable for me. Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the digital copy and I am leaving an honest review.
November 11, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this amusing book
i found both characters davis and asia very amusing ...davis for how arrogant and hollywood she was with her foot in her mouth all the time and like a dog on heat.... but endearing as well.... and asia for how she acted and how in control she was
the attraction between davis and asia is well played out but the christmas town called christmas is what pulled me in... that place sounds amazing and i want to live there....
with the theatre failing its down to one last show to bring the audiences back and shoppers back to the town of christmas, businesses are failing no pressure on asia its do or die by this one show
davis has left LA under a cloud and tries her best to worm her way into asia pants to no avail but her willingness to help the play does start to break down asia walls....
but will it be enough to save the town and any hope of a relationship between davis and asia
really enjoyed the angst and all that went with this book... cant wait to read more from this author
i found both characters davis and asia very amusing ...davis for how arrogant and hollywood she was with her foot in her mouth all the time and like a dog on heat.... but endearing as well.... and asia for how she acted and how in control she was
the attraction between davis and asia is well played out but the christmas town called christmas is what pulled me in... that place sounds amazing and i want to live there....
with the theatre failing its down to one last show to bring the audiences back and shoppers back to the town of christmas, businesses are failing no pressure on asia its do or die by this one show
davis has left LA under a cloud and tries her best to worm her way into asia pants to no avail but her willingness to help the play does start to break down asia walls....
but will it be enough to save the town and any hope of a relationship between davis and asia
really enjoyed the angst and all that went with this book... cant wait to read more from this author
November 4, 2024
It took me a while to figure out what was different in this book, and I think it was possibly as simple as single point of view! It really worked and made the book fresh.
I found the making up with the best friend emotional, and the love interest coming to the rescue also lovely. I was angry at the partygoers behaviour. I love a book that makes me feel, be it ahhhh that’s adorable or I’m so annoyed that they did that!
I loved the book and couldn’t wait to get back to it when I had to put it down.
I found the making up with the best friend emotional, and the love interest coming to the rescue also lovely. I was angry at the partygoers behaviour. I love a book that makes me feel, be it ahhhh that’s adorable or I’m so annoyed that they did that!
I loved the book and couldn’t wait to get back to it when I had to put it down.
November 2, 2024
A sweet, angsty Christmas season book by D Jackson Leigh kept me immersed from the beginning.
I love the chemistry and banter between yhe MCs. One made the other work for it, which resulted in having the character grow.
There are moments that made me laugh out loud and feel for the MCs.
The secondary characters are well done, necesary and enjoyable. They rally around the MC and help with guiding her on the right path.
I enjoyed all the books by Leigh and look forward to more books in the future.
I love the chemistry and banter between yhe MCs. One made the other work for it, which resulted in having the character grow.
There are moments that made me laugh out loud and feel for the MCs.
The secondary characters are well done, necesary and enjoyable. They rally around the MC and help with guiding her on the right path.
I enjoyed all the books by Leigh and look forward to more books in the future.
December 27, 2024
I liked this novel. I did. It was a cozy and enjoyable Christmas read, and I am glad that I read it. There were some very nice scenes, and I found myself invested in a few different parts of the story.
My Rating: "C+"
GoodReads: 3-stars
That said, I also found this novel to be somewhat underwhelming and lacking that special something. There wasn’t anything particularly wrong with it at all, I would give this author another shot for sure, but there wasn’t anything to make me want to recommend this over the other many options available. The beginning of the novel spent a lot of time on what was essentially filler material (Davis shooting random commercials was somewhat fun but didn’t do much for the story), which continued throughout the story (what was the actual point of the hot dog sequence?). Some sections/scenes went so fast that they didn’t have much impact for me. The romance, which I came for, was particularly thin and rushed at times (particularly the ending).
That said, this was fine. If this was a Hallmark movie I would absolutely watch it, but I probably wouldn’t watch it twice.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
My Rating: "C+"
GoodReads: 3-stars
That said, I also found this novel to be somewhat underwhelming and lacking that special something. There wasn’t anything particularly wrong with it at all, I would give this author another shot for sure, but there wasn’t anything to make me want to recommend this over the other many options available. The beginning of the novel spent a lot of time on what was essentially filler material (Davis shooting random commercials was somewhat fun but didn’t do much for the story), which continued throughout the story (what was the actual point of the hot dog sequence?). Some sections/scenes went so fast that they didn’t have much impact for me. The romance, which I came for, was particularly thin and rushed at times (particularly the ending).
That said, this was fine. If this was a Hallmark movie I would absolutely watch it, but I probably wouldn’t watch it twice.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
November 28, 2024
I received an ARC from NetGalley and am sharing my review voluntarily.
This book is an engaging read, offering a mix of glamour, tension, and drama with a compelling cast of characters. Actor Davis and stage director Asia Du Muir share a fascinating, tension-filled dynamic that keeps you hooked. Their chemistry is undeniable—there’s something electric about their interactions—but I found that it lacked that wow factor that would have elevated their relationship to something truly unforgettable. Still, both characters are intriguing, and I appreciated the way they challenged each other throughout the story.
The pacing of the book is where I think the story could have delved deeper. While I enjoyed their connection, I felt like both Davis and Asia could have had more time to evolve within the plot. There were moments where I wanted to see more development, more vulnerability, or just a little more time spent exploring their emotional growth as individuals and as a couple. The relationship has great potential, but I found myself wishing for more depth and complexity in their personal journeys.
The book also takes a brief but insightful look at the superficiality of Hollywood and the world of fame, touching on the way these external pressures shape and distort relationships. While it’s a fascinating angle, I felt that the exploration of Hollywood’s frivolous nature wasn’t substantial enough to fully satisfy someone looking for a deep dive into the industry.
However, if you're a fan of Broadway, stage dramas, or the theater world, you'll probably find a lot to love here. The stage production elements and the behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process are engaging. The world-building around the theater and the dynamic between Davis and Asia as they navigate their roles both on and off the stage is one of the highlights of the story.
In summary, this book is an enjoyable read with intriguing characters and a solid romance. It’s a lighter, more accessible read that will appeal to those who love stage dramas. If you're looking for a breezy yet engaging story with a dash of glamour, this one is worth checking out.
This book is an engaging read, offering a mix of glamour, tension, and drama with a compelling cast of characters. Actor Davis and stage director Asia Du Muir share a fascinating, tension-filled dynamic that keeps you hooked. Their chemistry is undeniable—there’s something electric about their interactions—but I found that it lacked that wow factor that would have elevated their relationship to something truly unforgettable. Still, both characters are intriguing, and I appreciated the way they challenged each other throughout the story.
The pacing of the book is where I think the story could have delved deeper. While I enjoyed their connection, I felt like both Davis and Asia could have had more time to evolve within the plot. There were moments where I wanted to see more development, more vulnerability, or just a little more time spent exploring their emotional growth as individuals and as a couple. The relationship has great potential, but I found myself wishing for more depth and complexity in their personal journeys.
The book also takes a brief but insightful look at the superficiality of Hollywood and the world of fame, touching on the way these external pressures shape and distort relationships. While it’s a fascinating angle, I felt that the exploration of Hollywood’s frivolous nature wasn’t substantial enough to fully satisfy someone looking for a deep dive into the industry.
However, if you're a fan of Broadway, stage dramas, or the theater world, you'll probably find a lot to love here. The stage production elements and the behind-the-scenes glimpse into the creative process are engaging. The world-building around the theater and the dynamic between Davis and Asia as they navigate their roles both on and off the stage is one of the highlights of the story.
In summary, this book is an enjoyable read with intriguing characters and a solid romance. It’s a lighter, more accessible read that will appeal to those who love stage dramas. If you're looking for a breezy yet engaging story with a dash of glamour, this one is worth checking out.
November 3, 2024
We follow Davis, an actress who makes terrible decisions when she's drunk (which is fairly often in the L.A. party scene).
To escape the fallout of her latest debacle, which has also meant that she is killed off from her role in a successful TV drama, Davis returns home to the town of Christmas, Pennsylvania.
Not only is Davis shallow and self-serving, but the lies pile up as she hides from the paparazzi and herself.
Davis gradually becomes more self-aware and starts to mature as the story progresses. She spends time with her mother, who is recovering from surgery, and her attention is captured by the town's theatre where she acted in her childhood, the current play that's being produced, and the writer and director herself: the beautiful and fiery Asia.
Asia has a grant to write and produce a play in the Christmas theatre. She can't afford the drama and negative press that Davis has surrounding her, so she keeps Davis at arm's length... until she doesn't.
And this is where things start to fall apart for me. Davis has become a relatable, flawed, and yet likeable character that the reader has a vested interest in... but we know absolutely nothing of Asia or her motivations.
Then there's a scene where Davis is drugged and receives minor injuries in an off-screen car crash, which is quite a catalyst. The bad guys are caught... but nothing happens to them, and the storyline just fizzles out!
Finally, we get to the abrupt ending where everything magically works out between Davis and Asia, even though nothing is resolved between them. I really don't buy Asia's sudden change of heart, and the HEA ending is flimsy at best.
I liked the story from the points of view of Davis' development, the theatre, and acting... but for a story that started by painting Davis as unlikable and shallow, I ended up feeling this way about Asia by the end.
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
To escape the fallout of her latest debacle, which has also meant that she is killed off from her role in a successful TV drama, Davis returns home to the town of Christmas, Pennsylvania.
Not only is Davis shallow and self-serving, but the lies pile up as she hides from the paparazzi and herself.
Davis gradually becomes more self-aware and starts to mature as the story progresses. She spends time with her mother, who is recovering from surgery, and her attention is captured by the town's theatre where she acted in her childhood, the current play that's being produced, and the writer and director herself: the beautiful and fiery Asia.
Asia has a grant to write and produce a play in the Christmas theatre. She can't afford the drama and negative press that Davis has surrounding her, so she keeps Davis at arm's length... until she doesn't.
And this is where things start to fall apart for me. Davis has become a relatable, flawed, and yet likeable character that the reader has a vested interest in... but we know absolutely nothing of Asia or her motivations.
Then there's a scene where Davis is drugged and receives minor injuries in an off-screen car crash, which is quite a catalyst. The bad guys are caught... but nothing happens to them, and the storyline just fizzles out!
Finally, we get to the abrupt ending where everything magically works out between Davis and Asia, even though nothing is resolved between them. I really don't buy Asia's sudden change of heart, and the HEA ending is flimsy at best.
I liked the story from the points of view of Davis' development, the theatre, and acting... but for a story that started by painting Davis as unlikable and shallow, I ended up feeling this way about Asia by the end.
*I received an advance reader copy for free, and I'm voluntarily leaving a review*
November 10, 2024
During the early chapters of this book I really struggled with my dislike for Davis Hart due to the character's very self-centered personality and wasn't sure that I was going to be able to finish. However, every so often I would get a glimpse of a softer side to her character that was hiding under all that bombastic ego and looked forward to seeing how she would soften up as the story progressed. I'm very glad that I persisted in the end.
With the sudden demise of her television career following a drunken escapade/tell all and subsequent viral media coverage, Davis Hart slinks back to her home town under the guise of needing to care for her ailing mother but with the perspective that she could just keep a low public profile while the media frenzy dies down before returning to her normal life down the track. While there she reconnects with her old community theatre buddies and meets the single-focused playwright and director Asia du Muir to whom she is instantly attracted. However, Asia's single-minded focus on her career means that she has no time for some party-girl actress and Davis' advances are shut down immediately....and repeatedly.
D. Jackson Leigh does a fantastic job of building the tension between the two characters, with the occasional glimpse of each woman's wall's coming down before they are slammed right back up again when Davis does or says something that leads to Asia pushing her away again. It was quite the rollercoaster of a ride.
My overall advice with this book is to not give up if Davis Hart gets your goat at first. Be patient and give her time. There really is a heart and the ability to think of others before herself in there, it's just going to take a bit of effort, and a few reality checks to help her find her soft side.
Thank you to D. Jackson Leigh, NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book. I am providing an honest review and all opinions are my own.
With the sudden demise of her television career following a drunken escapade/tell all and subsequent viral media coverage, Davis Hart slinks back to her home town under the guise of needing to care for her ailing mother but with the perspective that she could just keep a low public profile while the media frenzy dies down before returning to her normal life down the track. While there she reconnects with her old community theatre buddies and meets the single-focused playwright and director Asia du Muir to whom she is instantly attracted. However, Asia's single-minded focus on her career means that she has no time for some party-girl actress and Davis' advances are shut down immediately....and repeatedly.
D. Jackson Leigh does a fantastic job of building the tension between the two characters, with the occasional glimpse of each woman's wall's coming down before they are slammed right back up again when Davis does or says something that leads to Asia pushing her away again. It was quite the rollercoaster of a ride.
My overall advice with this book is to not give up if Davis Hart gets your goat at first. Be patient and give her time. There really is a heart and the ability to think of others before herself in there, it's just going to take a bit of effort, and a few reality checks to help her find her soft side.
Thank you to D. Jackson Leigh, NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book. I am providing an honest review and all opinions are my own.
January 25, 2025
A bruised and battered Hollywood actress with a big ego returns home. The gorgeous woman that caught her eye is less than impressed with her bravado.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Davis Hart has fled Hollywood with her tail between her legs after she got drunk and accidentally outed the star of the tv show where she played a supporting role. Arriving in her hometown Christmas, where, you probably guessed it, it’s Christmas year round. Her old community theatre company has attracted a young, up and coming playwright for their new play. It’s their last chance to keep the doors open. Davis reconnects with old friends but somehow makes the absolute worst first impression on Asia, the playwright. Asia is the most gorgeous woman Davis has ever seen, but all her usual bravado and flirting does not work on Asia.
I didn’t like Davis very much. I thought she was an arrogant, egotistical player. That just does not appeal to me. The fact that her first reaction to Asia was something along the lines of ‘I have to have her’, was really off putting. Asia’s reaction and bluntness in reacting to Davis’s unabashed flirting was hilarious and empowering. As the story continued I did mellow a bit towards Davis, but I didn’t really believe her suddenly less egotistical personality.
The connection between Davis and Asia starts out standoffish and cold, but that changes rather quickly. It almost feels unnaturally quickly. I feel like there were many more opportunities to ramp up the tension and especially the connection between the two main characters. The story is written entirely from Davis’ POV and somehow it didn’t grab me. I felt like I was sitting somewhere in the back of the theatre only catching glimpses of important moments.
The part I did enjoy was the quick wit Asia displayed and the fun banter between Davis and her friend Tommy.
All in all, this book just wasn’t for me.
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Davis Hart has fled Hollywood with her tail between her legs after she got drunk and accidentally outed the star of the tv show where she played a supporting role. Arriving in her hometown Christmas, where, you probably guessed it, it’s Christmas year round. Her old community theatre company has attracted a young, up and coming playwright for their new play. It’s their last chance to keep the doors open. Davis reconnects with old friends but somehow makes the absolute worst first impression on Asia, the playwright. Asia is the most gorgeous woman Davis has ever seen, but all her usual bravado and flirting does not work on Asia.
I didn’t like Davis very much. I thought she was an arrogant, egotistical player. That just does not appeal to me. The fact that her first reaction to Asia was something along the lines of ‘I have to have her’, was really off putting. Asia’s reaction and bluntness in reacting to Davis’s unabashed flirting was hilarious and empowering. As the story continued I did mellow a bit towards Davis, but I didn’t really believe her suddenly less egotistical personality.
The connection between Davis and Asia starts out standoffish and cold, but that changes rather quickly. It almost feels unnaturally quickly. I feel like there were many more opportunities to ramp up the tension and especially the connection between the two main characters. The story is written entirely from Davis’ POV and somehow it didn’t grab me. I felt like I was sitting somewhere in the back of the theatre only catching glimpses of important moments.
The part I did enjoy was the quick wit Asia displayed and the fun banter between Davis and her friend Tommy.
All in all, this book just wasn’t for me.
October 30, 2024
I've previously read a book by this author that I really liked, so this is doubly disappointing.
It starts off with the main character Davis Hart getting drunk and outing her closeted costar, which is super not a great look to begin with, but then Davis thinks it's super unfair that her character is killed off the show as a result of it. So she moves back to her hometown called Christmas on the East Coast, supposedly to help her mom after a major surgery, but she's really trying to escape the fallout. Enter Asia du Muir, a producer and playwright who is heading up the Christmas community play, and Davis is instantly smitten.
Okay, so Davis is not super likeable. She's egotistical, tries to lie to everyone, takes zero accountability for a lot of the book, and constantly pushes her luck with Asia. This book really suffers from not being dual POV because Asia is super against the idea of getting involved with Davis, then suddenly they're sleeping together, then suddenly it's too much for her and there's almost no explanation as to why she freaked out so much.
Worst of all, there's a plot point in which
The writing (minus a couple of proofreading issues) is good, which made this book easy to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
It starts off with the main character Davis Hart getting drunk and outing her closeted costar, which is super not a great look to begin with, but then Davis thinks it's super unfair that her character is killed off the show as a result of it. So she moves back to her hometown called Christmas on the East Coast, supposedly to help her mom after a major surgery, but she's really trying to escape the fallout. Enter Asia du Muir, a producer and playwright who is heading up the Christmas community play, and Davis is instantly smitten.
Okay, so Davis is not super likeable. She's egotistical, tries to lie to everyone, takes zero accountability for a lot of the book, and constantly pushes her luck with Asia. This book really suffers from not being dual POV because Asia is super against the idea of getting involved with Davis, then suddenly they're sleeping together, then suddenly it's too much for her and there's almost no explanation as to why she freaked out so much.
Worst of all, there's a plot point in which
The writing (minus a couple of proofreading issues) is good, which made this book easy to read.
Thanks to NetGalley and publisher for the opportunity to read and review.
November 21, 2024
Rating: 3.5 rounded up to 4.0.
This slow-burn romance between an immature, self-absorbed former television star and a woman wanting to make her mark on the theater world by writing, directing, and producing a community theater in a small town called Christmas. With a storyline like that, you might expect a ton of angst throughout the book, but luckily, Leigh manages to keep the angst to a minimum. However, what she hadn’t done was to develop her two main characters since Asia, the director remains amorphous throughout the book and denies her readers a chance to learn to like her while Davis, the ex-TV star, manages to work her way through a lifetime of ego-centric entitlement in a very short period of time and, still, is not a hugely likable character.
By the 75% mark in the book, readers might be asking themselves whether this will be the first Lesbian romance in 50 years to not have a HEA. They do, but goodness it takes them too long to get there.
Leigh is a talented author whose books usually hit the mark every time. This time, though, she misses her mark though not by much.
If you like books with an ice-queen-like character and an egotistical character, with plenty of angst, albeit much of it subtle and not heavy handed, then this book is for you. If you prefer your main characters to be likable from page one, you might want to skip this book.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
This slow-burn romance between an immature, self-absorbed former television star and a woman wanting to make her mark on the theater world by writing, directing, and producing a community theater in a small town called Christmas. With a storyline like that, you might expect a ton of angst throughout the book, but luckily, Leigh manages to keep the angst to a minimum. However, what she hadn’t done was to develop her two main characters since Asia, the director remains amorphous throughout the book and denies her readers a chance to learn to like her while Davis, the ex-TV star, manages to work her way through a lifetime of ego-centric entitlement in a very short period of time and, still, is not a hugely likable character.
By the 75% mark in the book, readers might be asking themselves whether this will be the first Lesbian romance in 50 years to not have a HEA. They do, but goodness it takes them too long to get there.
Leigh is a talented author whose books usually hit the mark every time. This time, though, she misses her mark though not by much.
If you like books with an ice-queen-like character and an egotistical character, with plenty of angst, albeit much of it subtle and not heavy handed, then this book is for you. If you prefer your main characters to be likable from page one, you might want to skip this book.
My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.
November 28, 2024
This was an enjoyable enough read, with some laugh-out-loud moments and a really lovely storyline about a community theatre.
Its biggest crime though, is that I didn’t care about the main character and, by extension, the romance. Davis was, for the most part, quite annoying, and while I don’t mind an unlikeable protagonist I do want to be rooting for them. I found her to be very entitled and disingenuous.
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This included Davis’ romance with Asia. I really didn’t get a sense of a connection between them; Davis saw Asia once, declared that she was hot, and that was the entire basis of their relationship. While I did like Asia as a character, I never got the sense that she had particularly strong feelings for Davis back.
The comedic chapters of Davis moving between terrible acting gigs were very entertaining, and I did really like that it was about the importance of art and theatre to a small community. I also liked how this led to Davis falling in love with acting again, and rediscovering her passion for it.
Overall I feel fairly ambivalent about this book. There were plenty of things to enjoy, but also some major frustrations and drawbacks.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
Its biggest crime though, is that I didn’t care about the main character and, by extension, the romance. Davis was, for the most part, quite annoying, and while I don’t mind an unlikeable protagonist I do want to be rooting for them. I found her to be very entitled and disingenuous.
📚Blog📖YouTube📖Instagram📚
This included Davis’ romance with Asia. I really didn’t get a sense of a connection between them; Davis saw Asia once, declared that she was hot, and that was the entire basis of their relationship. While I did like Asia as a character, I never got the sense that she had particularly strong feelings for Davis back.
The comedic chapters of Davis moving between terrible acting gigs were very entertaining, and I did really like that it was about the importance of art and theatre to a small community. I also liked how this led to Davis falling in love with acting again, and rediscovering her passion for it.
Overall I feel fairly ambivalent about this book. There were plenty of things to enjoy, but also some major frustrations and drawbacks.
I received a free copy for an honest review.
November 6, 2024
I didn't like this book at the start and took me awhile to get into it. I thought that Davis was a spoiled Hollywood celebrity, but as the book goes on she changes quite a bit and ends up having a lot more depth and development than I was expecting.
The story had promise - a mishap derailed Davis' acting career and sent her home to Christmas (yes the festive themed town where she grew up. The community theatre has a new young playwright (Asia) who has a grant to put on a production - Davis wants to help out. Asia does not want her to. The other characters work quite well, Davis' mum and the neighbor, Tommy and his husband. Davis fleshed out as the story progressed. Asia not so much.
I enjoyed Davis's growth more than the actual romance. In fact, the romance may have been my least favorite aspect of this book. Asia's character fell pretty flat to me. We never learn much about her, and her main character trait is rejecting Davis again and again. I find it hard to believe why Davis is so interested in her and tries so hard to be with her when all Asia keeps doing is hurting her. I do think there are a few cute scenes they have together, but overall the romance was not the main draw for me.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The story had promise - a mishap derailed Davis' acting career and sent her home to Christmas (yes the festive themed town where she grew up. The community theatre has a new young playwright (Asia) who has a grant to put on a production - Davis wants to help out. Asia does not want her to. The other characters work quite well, Davis' mum and the neighbor, Tommy and his husband. Davis fleshed out as the story progressed. Asia not so much.
I enjoyed Davis's growth more than the actual romance. In fact, the romance may have been my least favorite aspect of this book. Asia's character fell pretty flat to me. We never learn much about her, and her main character trait is rejecting Davis again and again. I find it hard to believe why Davis is so interested in her and tries so hard to be with her when all Asia keeps doing is hurting her. I do think there are a few cute scenes they have together, but overall the romance was not the main draw for me.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 3, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher, and the author for providing a review copy of this book.
The story follows Davis, an actress who gets cut from a TV show after outing a costar while drunk, after her return to her hometown of Christmas, where it is Christmas year round.
The book was fine. There was nothing particularly wrong with it, but also nothing particularly special about it.
I strongly disliked Davis at the start because of her ego and attitude, and despite her character growth after meeting Asia, I found her hard to warm to. On the other hand, I liked Asia at the start, but by the end found myself questioning her decisions, especially her sudden flip from "I'm not interested because *insert list of reasons*" to suddenly being madly in love despite no resolution to the issues between her and Davis.
I enjoyed the scenes where Davis was filming the cooking show episode and the adverts. But there were some scenes that felt like they held no real purpose and were just there as filler.
I can't say I would particularly recommend this book, but if you're after an easy to read romance with a happily ever after ending, maybe give it a go.
The story follows Davis, an actress who gets cut from a TV show after outing a costar while drunk, after her return to her hometown of Christmas, where it is Christmas year round.
The book was fine. There was nothing particularly wrong with it, but also nothing particularly special about it.
I strongly disliked Davis at the start because of her ego and attitude, and despite her character growth after meeting Asia, I found her hard to warm to. On the other hand, I liked Asia at the start, but by the end found myself questioning her decisions, especially her sudden flip from "I'm not interested because *insert list of reasons*" to suddenly being madly in love despite no resolution to the issues between her and Davis.
I enjoyed the scenes where Davis was filming the cooking show episode and the adverts. But there were some scenes that felt like they held no real purpose and were just there as filler.
I can't say I would particularly recommend this book, but if you're after an easy to read romance with a happily ever after ending, maybe give it a go.
October 30, 2024
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I didn't like this book at the start. I thought that Davis seemed like a caricature of the spoiled Hollywood celebrity. However, as the book goes on she changes quite a bit and ends up having a lot more depth and development than I was expecting.
I was surprised to find myself becoming much more invested in the play and Davis's growth than the actual romance. In fact, the romance may have been my least favorite aspect of this book. Asia's character fell pretty flat to me. We never learn much about her, and her main character trait is rejecting Davis again and again. I find it hard to believe why Davis is so interested in her and tries so hard to be with her when all Asia keeps doing is hurting her. I do think there are a few cute scenes they have together, but overall the romance was not the main draw for me.
Despite this, the book is still well worth reading. It's very engaging and I really enjoyed following Davis's adventures in Christmas. Overall, 4/5 stars.
I didn't like this book at the start. I thought that Davis seemed like a caricature of the spoiled Hollywood celebrity. However, as the book goes on she changes quite a bit and ends up having a lot more depth and development than I was expecting.
I was surprised to find myself becoming much more invested in the play and Davis's growth than the actual romance. In fact, the romance may have been my least favorite aspect of this book. Asia's character fell pretty flat to me. We never learn much about her, and her main character trait is rejecting Davis again and again. I find it hard to believe why Davis is so interested in her and tries so hard to be with her when all Asia keeps doing is hurting her. I do think there are a few cute scenes they have together, but overall the romance was not the main draw for me.
Despite this, the book is still well worth reading. It's very engaging and I really enjoyed following Davis's adventures in Christmas. Overall, 4/5 stars.
October 28, 2024
This took a while for me to get into. There wasn't enough about the characters to actually care about them. Neither Davis or Asia were portrayed as likeable at the beginning. Davis grew on me as the story unfolded as we were experiencing it from her point of view. Asia did not grow on me, perhaps she was just never really there in the story - just on the edge. Strange really.
The story had promise - a mishap derailed Davis' acting career and sent her home to Christmas (yes the festive themed town where she grew up - published just in time for Christmas). The community theatre has a new young playwright (Asia) who has a grant to put on a production - Davis wants to help out. Asia does not want her to.
To be honest all the other characters work quite well, Davis' mum and the neighbour, Tommy and his husband. Davis fleshed out as the story progressed. Asia not so much.
There is of course an epilogue.
6 months after the story ends they are working together and still together.
The story had promise - a mishap derailed Davis' acting career and sent her home to Christmas (yes the festive themed town where she grew up - published just in time for Christmas). The community theatre has a new young playwright (Asia) who has a grant to put on a production - Davis wants to help out. Asia does not want her to.
To be honest all the other characters work quite well, Davis' mum and the neighbour, Tommy and his husband. Davis fleshed out as the story progressed. Asia not so much.
There is of course an epilogue.
6 months after the story ends they are working together and still together.
November 12, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
Davis acting career is put on hold when she accidentally spills a secret about one of her co-stars of hit show she is and was on. She decides to go to her hometown where it’s Christmas all year around to let things die while figure out what she going to do. Asia is determine to focus on her career and one things is to she wants to produce the play she wrote for her community theater that’s is struggling to stay open and she doesn’t want anyone to distract her from this. Davis wants to help but Asia doesn’t want her help as they work together despite Asia reluctant of Davis help they both can’t help the feelings that’s start to happen between them. This was ok read I love the character growth of Davis but Asia she became an annoying with the way she treated Davis which I question why Davis fell for her I like Davis mom as she was supportive.
Davis acting career is put on hold when she accidentally spills a secret about one of her co-stars of hit show she is and was on. She decides to go to her hometown where it’s Christmas all year around to let things die while figure out what she going to do. Asia is determine to focus on her career and one things is to she wants to produce the play she wrote for her community theater that’s is struggling to stay open and she doesn’t want anyone to distract her from this. Davis wants to help but Asia doesn’t want her help as they work together despite Asia reluctant of Davis help they both can’t help the feelings that’s start to happen between them. This was ok read I love the character growth of Davis but Asia she became an annoying with the way she treated Davis which I question why Davis fell for her I like Davis mom as she was supportive.
November 30, 2024
The setting for this story is the best thing about the book. The town of Christmas sounds charming and sweet. I’m less enamoured of the two leading ladies. Apart from being good looking and a decent actress, Davis doesn’t seem to have any redeeming qualities. The drunk incident at the beginning was fair enough as that was a deliberate honey trap, but the selfishness to friends and family made the subsequent attraction a little hard to believe. What would Asia see in her apart from a shared interest in theatre? There are some nice scenes due to the aforementioned charm of the setting, but the romance doesn’t really gel. I think Davis needs a few more years to mature.
January 11, 2025
I didn't think I was going to enjoy this book when I first started reading it, because of the attitude of Davis Hart - actor in a popular American TV show. She was way above herself, with an ego that was much too big.
She was axed from the show, and moved back to Christmas, her childhood town, where it is Christmas all year round, and she met Asia.
It was here that I started to warm to her; she became more insecure and down to earth, and a much nicer person, making the book an enjoyable read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for letting me read a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
She was axed from the show, and moved back to Christmas, her childhood town, where it is Christmas all year round, and she met Asia.
It was here that I started to warm to her; she became more insecure and down to earth, and a much nicer person, making the book an enjoyable read.
Thank you to Netgalley, the publisher and author for letting me read a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
October 23, 2024
This is an interesting take on a Christmas novel in that Christmas is the name of the town in which the novel takes place. Hitting both celebrity and small town romance tropes, as well as a touch of one-sided enemies to lovers, there was no shortage of drama in this novel. It took me a while to get into this story and become emotionally invested in both main characters, but once I hit about the halfway point, I basically stayed up all night to finish it.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley.
I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley.
October 25, 2024
This was a fun Christmas read. Davis was such a do not care about anything fuckboy in the beginning, but is forced to rethink her whole life after being fired from her TV shop after her drunken mess up. It was great to see her grow and realize what she loves to work with and that family, friends and a love interest is what actually make you happy. A lot of nice Christmas vibes add and extra layer of enjoyment.
I received a free ARC of this book via NetGalley.
I received a free ARC of this book via NetGalley.
October 31, 2024
I love a story where someone has to go home to hide and it forces them to grow. Throw in a great Christmas setting and you have a fun read.
The major problem is that It took too long to start the like the characters. There were parts I had to force myself to keep reading but the back half was better over all.
Thanks to NetGallery and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
The major problem is that It took too long to start the like the characters. There were parts I had to force myself to keep reading but the back half was better over all.
Thanks to NetGallery and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.
November 9, 2024
Christmas isn’t just a holiday, it’s a place. A place which I grew to love throughout this book.
It was a cosy sapphic romance, perfect for the holiday season.
I don’t have much to say, it was a great book with a great plot, a nice cosy book
* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley*
It was a cosy sapphic romance, perfect for the holiday season.
I don’t have much to say, it was a great book with a great plot, a nice cosy book
* full disclosure I was given this book in exchange for an honest review through NetGalley*
December 3, 2024
Very sweet holiday read
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are likable and interesting. The story is interesting taking place in a small town called Christmas and the community theater. I recommend this feel good holiday romance. Thanks
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are likable and interesting. The story is interesting taking place in a small town called Christmas and the community theater. I recommend this feel good holiday romance. Thanks
October 27, 2024
A quick, fun read. Asia’s stubbornness grated me at times, as well as Davis’s immaturity so it took a little to get into but a decent read in the end.
Free ARC via NetGalley
Free ARC via NetGalley
January 20, 2025
So nearly gave up on this - the main character Davis, is a brat who is all Me Me Me.... but that metamorphosis is, I suppose, the point! the further I read, the more I liked it!
December 16, 2024
⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I was actually really excited to start this book, as i loved the blurb. But I just could not connect to either of the main characters. The main character, from whose perspective this is written, is supposed to be a player from the city overcoming her history and habit and all thta, but the redemption arc just did not click for me. It just felt like reading a book about the „wheres my hug“ „shower? Without me?“ guy :(
I also felt like there was no chemistry or attraction between the fmc‘s. I never got invested in their story and lowkey did not want them to end up together.
Other that the fact that I dont think the main character deserved her love interest I actually liked the storyline. I think there was so much potential for Hallmark vibes that was sadly ruined for me.
I received a free copy of this book from the publisher and am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 2, 2025
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced reader copy of this book. Here are my honest thoughts and review.
⭐ 2.5 Stars
Davis Hart is the kind of main character you don’t root for at first. She’s a popular actress with destructive tendencies, avoiding responsibility and accountability for her actions. In an attempt to fix her spiraling life, she returns to her small hometown. There, she begins to find joy in everyday activities and becomes invested in saving the local theater, helping it stay open and financially stable.
Asia du Muir, the other main character, is a director and playwright at the start of her career. She’s determined to make her mark without being overshadowed by Davis and initially wants nothing to do with her.
As Davis and Asia start working together, Davis undergoes significant character development, growing in the best ways. However, their romantic relationship and sexual attraction felt forced and lacked natural progression. Their connection could have been more believable if the story had spent more time showing them getting to know each other and building chemistry organically.
On a personal note, I realized this book wasn’t for me because I dislike the “Christmas all year round” small-town setting—it just felt too over-the-top and unrealistic for my taste.
Overall, while the story is cute, cozy, and short, it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
⭐ 2.5 Stars
Davis Hart is the kind of main character you don’t root for at first. She’s a popular actress with destructive tendencies, avoiding responsibility and accountability for her actions. In an attempt to fix her spiraling life, she returns to her small hometown. There, she begins to find joy in everyday activities and becomes invested in saving the local theater, helping it stay open and financially stable.
Asia du Muir, the other main character, is a director and playwright at the start of her career. She’s determined to make her mark without being overshadowed by Davis and initially wants nothing to do with her.
As Davis and Asia start working together, Davis undergoes significant character development, growing in the best ways. However, their romantic relationship and sexual attraction felt forced and lacked natural progression. Their connection could have been more believable if the story had spent more time showing them getting to know each other and building chemistry organically.
On a personal note, I realized this book wasn’t for me because I dislike the “Christmas all year round” small-town setting—it just felt too over-the-top and unrealistic for my taste.
Overall, while the story is cute, cozy, and short, it didn’t leave a lasting impression.
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