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This Christmas
It’s Christmastime and everyone is in the holiday spirit at no-kill animal shelter Junebug Farms.
When Junebug sponsors the annual Christmas parade to raise money and awareness for their shelter, the staff have a the king and queen of the parade will spend the holidays filming adorable Christmas vignettes to bring in donations and find forever homes for lovable pups before Santa comes.
What they don’t know is that Mia Sorenson, volunteer dog walker and superior matchmaker, is about to rig the voting so that her granddaughter, Samantha, and Sam’s friend Keegan, win queen and queen of the parade. Sam and Keegan have been dancing around each other for years, and if Mia doesn’t do something, they might never realize they’re meant to be together. But can Sam and Keegan ever forget the Big Embarrassing Thing that makes romance a nope?
It’ll be all paws on deck to bring them a miracle and make this Christmas one to remember.
When Junebug sponsors the annual Christmas parade to raise money and awareness for their shelter, the staff have a the king and queen of the parade will spend the holidays filming adorable Christmas vignettes to bring in donations and find forever homes for lovable pups before Santa comes.
What they don’t know is that Mia Sorenson, volunteer dog walker and superior matchmaker, is about to rig the voting so that her granddaughter, Samantha, and Sam’s friend Keegan, win queen and queen of the parade. Sam and Keegan have been dancing around each other for years, and if Mia doesn’t do something, they might never realize they’re meant to be together. But can Sam and Keegan ever forget the Big Embarrassing Thing that makes romance a nope?
It’ll be all paws on deck to bring them a miracle and make this Christmas one to remember.
216 pages, Paperback
First published November 12, 2024
34 people are currently reading
659 people want to read
About the author
Georgia Beers
57 books1,513 followersLambda and Golden Crown Literary Award-winning author Georgia Beers lives in Rochester, New York. She has been writing for as long as she can remember, and published her first lesbian novel in 2000.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 126 reviews
November 20, 2024
For those already familiar with this author, this book will be a delight as it reunites multiple protagonists from her previous works. Junebug Farms is the animal shelter that serves as a meeting place and a hub of relationships, having been the setting for various highly recommended stories. If you haven't read them, you're missing out.
This time the protagonists are two women who have known each other for years and had a near-intimate relationship that ended abruptly and strangely, without them knowing how to move forward in either direction, much to their despair.
One of the girls' grandmother, very active for her age, subtly rigs a contest to choose the king and queen of the contest organized by Junebug Farms in an attempt to raise funds, which are always needed for their activities, especially since they've lost some state funding.
So, two queens are chosen: Sam and Keegan. They will have to maintain contact during the various activities organized to promote the shelter. Almost like a series of dates. In the pre-Christmas period. Cute.
So, with almost no drama, festive fun, cute animals, great people, and lots of love, this story is the perfect Christmas read.
This time the protagonists are two women who have known each other for years and had a near-intimate relationship that ended abruptly and strangely, without them knowing how to move forward in either direction, much to their despair.
One of the girls' grandmother, very active for her age, subtly rigs a contest to choose the king and queen of the contest organized by Junebug Farms in an attempt to raise funds, which are always needed for their activities, especially since they've lost some state funding.
So, two queens are chosen: Sam and Keegan. They will have to maintain contact during the various activities organized to promote the shelter. Almost like a series of dates. In the pre-Christmas period. Cute.
So, with almost no drama, festive fun, cute animals, great people, and lots of love, this story is the perfect Christmas read.
November 20, 2024
The perfect feel-good low angst read I needed right now. With dogs. So many dogs. 🥰
December 1, 2024
I'm a fan of Georgia Beers But I just couldn't click with the story..
Almost a 3*
Almost a 3*
November 4, 2024
I was a bit confused because I thoughts the mains had been friends for ages, tried more and gone back to friends. They hadn’t. This only became to clear to me about 18% in. This may have accounted for me not quite settling in at the start. However a couple of paragraphs later, I find they were friends for a few years.
All that said, I enjoyed the book. It’s a romance, so of course there is a happy ending and I enjoyed the journey to it. I got a wee bit teary eyed, not at the romance but some of the secondary characters aka doggies.
An enjoyable Christmas romance. Although the tendency to put super in, super often as an extra descriptive word was a wee bit distracting! 3.5 up to 4.
All that said, I enjoyed the book. It’s a romance, so of course there is a happy ending and I enjoyed the journey to it. I got a wee bit teary eyed, not at the romance but some of the secondary characters aka doggies.
An enjoyable Christmas romance. Although the tendency to put super in, super often as an extra descriptive word was a wee bit distracting! 3.5 up to 4.
December 28, 2025
Second chance romance that I found cute and cozy. A very enjoyable holiday read, and I loved all the dog scenes. My favorite character was definitely the grandma, Mia, and I really liked that her POVs were included.
December 8, 2024
Adorable dogs, two women that are clearly destined to be together and a meddling grandma. It’s a joy to be back at Junebug Farms for this low angst, slow burn Christmas romance!
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Keegan keeps running into Sammi. Gorgeous, kind, wonderful Sammi. Sammi, the woman she started dating a year ago but when things got intimate, her own feelings overwhelmed her so badly, Keegan ran. She ghosted Sammi and after a few months Keegan put them firmly in the friends column. That night never to be spoken of again. Now, almost a year later, Keegan is dating someone else but she can’t seem to avoid Sammi anywhere. When they both get picked as Queen of Junebug Farms to help drum up more donations, Keegan prepares herself to spend a lot more time with Sammi. Why does the woman have to keep being so charming though?
Sammi still doesn’t know what the hell happened a year ago. She thought she and Keegan were on a path to something beautiful when Keegan ran away and shut her out completely. She must be a terrible kisser. Keegan asked to never speak of that night again, so Sammi never got answers. She did not forget about Keegan though. It’s hard to forget how beautiful and funny and wonderful Keegan is, but if friendship is all Sammi can get, it’ll have to be enough. They clearly don’t belong together. Keegan is dating someone else for Pete’s sake. Too bad Sammi’s meddling grandma Mia did not get that message and now she has to spend a lot of time with Keegan doing fun stuff with sweet, adoptable dogs. How will Sammi’s heart survive? Ugh!
Anxiety sucks big time. The swirling downward pull of derogatory thoughts is exhausting. Rarely are those thoughts in any way a reflection of reality. That doesn’t matter though because it’s all someone can hear from the moment that spiral starts up. Keegan’s spiral made her run away from the girl that she lost her heart to. The emotions came on too fast, too strong to comprehend. So Keegan ran.
Now I must say that, for a person that doesn’t have anxiety, this seems clearly like a communication issue. For the protagonists to have only that standing between them, that seems like a thin storyline. However, Beers knows what she’s doing and by adding a third POV she keeps things more interesting. And at one point, without giving spoilers, she goes and faces the cliche head on! That made me grin wide throughout that particular scene.
Both Keegan and Sammi are very likable humans that clearly love each other. Grandma Mia gently nudges them together with her sneaky ways but sometimes I just wanted to shake them both violently to make them hurry the hell up and be happy already.
Next to Sammi and Keegan’s point of view we also get the input of the matchmaking granny Mia. We’ve met Mia before in the earlier books about Junebug Farms so it was a treat getting to know her better. As for the rest of the shelter-gang: it was great checking in on Jessica and Lisa!
The shelter dogs collectively form a fourth main character. You have to be a very strong person not to be charmed by their sweet doggie ways. I loved how all of them are described with very distinct characters. I dare you to not wonder which one you would want to adopt! (I would pick Luna😉)
This Christmas is a fun, easy, uncomplicated read. Make some hot cocoa, find your softest blanket, gather your pets around you and snuggle together on the couch for some Holiday happiness
I received an advance copy from Netgalley for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Keegan keeps running into Sammi. Gorgeous, kind, wonderful Sammi. Sammi, the woman she started dating a year ago but when things got intimate, her own feelings overwhelmed her so badly, Keegan ran. She ghosted Sammi and after a few months Keegan put them firmly in the friends column. That night never to be spoken of again. Now, almost a year later, Keegan is dating someone else but she can’t seem to avoid Sammi anywhere. When they both get picked as Queen of Junebug Farms to help drum up more donations, Keegan prepares herself to spend a lot more time with Sammi. Why does the woman have to keep being so charming though?
Sammi still doesn’t know what the hell happened a year ago. She thought she and Keegan were on a path to something beautiful when Keegan ran away and shut her out completely. She must be a terrible kisser. Keegan asked to never speak of that night again, so Sammi never got answers. She did not forget about Keegan though. It’s hard to forget how beautiful and funny and wonderful Keegan is, but if friendship is all Sammi can get, it’ll have to be enough. They clearly don’t belong together. Keegan is dating someone else for Pete’s sake. Too bad Sammi’s meddling grandma Mia did not get that message and now she has to spend a lot of time with Keegan doing fun stuff with sweet, adoptable dogs. How will Sammi’s heart survive? Ugh!
Anxiety sucks big time. The swirling downward pull of derogatory thoughts is exhausting. Rarely are those thoughts in any way a reflection of reality. That doesn’t matter though because it’s all someone can hear from the moment that spiral starts up. Keegan’s spiral made her run away from the girl that she lost her heart to. The emotions came on too fast, too strong to comprehend. So Keegan ran.
Now I must say that, for a person that doesn’t have anxiety, this seems clearly like a communication issue. For the protagonists to have only that standing between them, that seems like a thin storyline. However, Beers knows what she’s doing and by adding a third POV she keeps things more interesting. And at one point, without giving spoilers, she goes and faces the cliche head on! That made me grin wide throughout that particular scene.
Both Keegan and Sammi are very likable humans that clearly love each other. Grandma Mia gently nudges them together with her sneaky ways but sometimes I just wanted to shake them both violently to make them hurry the hell up and be happy already.
Next to Sammi and Keegan’s point of view we also get the input of the matchmaking granny Mia. We’ve met Mia before in the earlier books about Junebug Farms so it was a treat getting to know her better. As for the rest of the shelter-gang: it was great checking in on Jessica and Lisa!
The shelter dogs collectively form a fourth main character. You have to be a very strong person not to be charmed by their sweet doggie ways. I loved how all of them are described with very distinct characters. I dare you to not wonder which one you would want to adopt! (I would pick Luna😉)
This Christmas is a fun, easy, uncomplicated read. Make some hot cocoa, find your softest blanket, gather your pets around you and snuggle together on the couch for some Holiday happiness
November 26, 2024
I’ve been a Georgia Beers fan since I stumbled upon her first book, Turning the Page, more than twenty years ago. Since then, she’s written 38 books, including her new release, This Christmas. She consistently delivers contemporary tales featuring strong, independent women navigating challenges and finding love, all while surrounded by family and friends.
This Christmas, her latest novel, is a sweet holiday love story that incorporates some of her favorite recurring themes—family and dogs. These, combined with the beloved second-chance romance trope, provide readers with a story brimming with the irresistible charm of puppies and holiday magic. Beers reintroduces Junebug Farms, a no-kill animal shelter she’s written about before, as the heartwarming backdrop for the romance, and it proves to be a winning choice. The blend of Christmas cheer, puppy love, and human connection creates a feel-good atmosphere that resonates with animal lovers and romance enthusiasts alike, making this book the perfect holiday read.
The foundation for the romance is intriguing and captures readers’ attention. Samantha and Keegan have a history of avoiding their feelings for one another and Mia, Sam’s grandmother, can’t take it any longer. She decides to play matchmaker and nudge the two together with some discrete manipulation. This dynamic not only adds elements of humor but illustrates the lengths family will go to for those they care about. Bonds like these resonate deeply with readers, drawing them into the story as they witness the playful scheming of Mia. Beers scripts this with a sharp wit and keen intuition, creating moments filled with laughter, tension, and undeniable chemistry.
Even if I didn’t know she had nearly 40 novels to her name, it’s clear she isn’t a rookie writer. She hits the bullseye on all the essential elements for a convincing long-time-friends-turned-lovers romance. She understands the importance of character development, a realistic friendship foundation, a gradual transition to love, emotional depth, and sexual tension. Sam and Keegan are well-rounded, dynamic characters whose individual growth arcs unfold alongside their evolving relationship. Their shift from friendship to romance feels natural as they embrace the awkwardness, uncertainty, and conflicting emotions. Furthermore, their fear of ruining their friendship feels genuine, feeding into their self-doubt and mounting sexual attraction. This ultimately drives the romance forward in a believable and compelling way, making This Christmas a really entertaining read.
Final Remarks…
I always look forward to every new story Beers creates. Her happily-ever-afters are emotionally uplifting, providing readers with a sense of comfort and joy. This Christmas is no different. Written with warmth and care, it allows readers to explore the complexities of a relationship transitioning from friendship to romance in a way that feels authentic. Sam and Keegan’s journey is a triumphant one. They overcome awkward and embarrassing obstacles to discover the true essence of love. Beers writes it from the heart, and the result is a holiday romance that captures the wondrous gift of love.
Strengths…
Likable leading ladies
Interesting secondary characters
Engaging plot
Heartwarming romance
Immersive story world
This Christmas, her latest novel, is a sweet holiday love story that incorporates some of her favorite recurring themes—family and dogs. These, combined with the beloved second-chance romance trope, provide readers with a story brimming with the irresistible charm of puppies and holiday magic. Beers reintroduces Junebug Farms, a no-kill animal shelter she’s written about before, as the heartwarming backdrop for the romance, and it proves to be a winning choice. The blend of Christmas cheer, puppy love, and human connection creates a feel-good atmosphere that resonates with animal lovers and romance enthusiasts alike, making this book the perfect holiday read.
The foundation for the romance is intriguing and captures readers’ attention. Samantha and Keegan have a history of avoiding their feelings for one another and Mia, Sam’s grandmother, can’t take it any longer. She decides to play matchmaker and nudge the two together with some discrete manipulation. This dynamic not only adds elements of humor but illustrates the lengths family will go to for those they care about. Bonds like these resonate deeply with readers, drawing them into the story as they witness the playful scheming of Mia. Beers scripts this with a sharp wit and keen intuition, creating moments filled with laughter, tension, and undeniable chemistry.
Even if I didn’t know she had nearly 40 novels to her name, it’s clear she isn’t a rookie writer. She hits the bullseye on all the essential elements for a convincing long-time-friends-turned-lovers romance. She understands the importance of character development, a realistic friendship foundation, a gradual transition to love, emotional depth, and sexual tension. Sam and Keegan are well-rounded, dynamic characters whose individual growth arcs unfold alongside their evolving relationship. Their shift from friendship to romance feels natural as they embrace the awkwardness, uncertainty, and conflicting emotions. Furthermore, their fear of ruining their friendship feels genuine, feeding into their self-doubt and mounting sexual attraction. This ultimately drives the romance forward in a believable and compelling way, making This Christmas a really entertaining read.
Final Remarks…
I always look forward to every new story Beers creates. Her happily-ever-afters are emotionally uplifting, providing readers with a sense of comfort and joy. This Christmas is no different. Written with warmth and care, it allows readers to explore the complexities of a relationship transitioning from friendship to romance in a way that feels authentic. Sam and Keegan’s journey is a triumphant one. They overcome awkward and embarrassing obstacles to discover the true essence of love. Beers writes it from the heart, and the result is a holiday romance that captures the wondrous gift of love.
Strengths…
Likable leading ladies
Interesting secondary characters
Engaging plot
Heartwarming romance
Immersive story world
October 20, 2024
would like to thank netgalley and the publishers for letting me read this lovely spicy christmas book
this book has all the elements in a christmas book that you could want.... dogs and cats that need rehoming and a bit of match making from a grandparent to pave the way for love.....
when the organisers of a cats and dogs home have some of their funding go they have to come up with ideas to raise money to keep the animals fed in their care....and a king and queen idea was formed...only this year its a queen and queen pageant..... what could go wrong...or right
its a fun read with the added elements of christmas. animals and a bit of spice...
this book has all the elements in a christmas book that you could want.... dogs and cats that need rehoming and a bit of match making from a grandparent to pave the way for love.....
when the organisers of a cats and dogs home have some of their funding go they have to come up with ideas to raise money to keep the animals fed in their care....and a king and queen idea was formed...only this year its a queen and queen pageant..... what could go wrong...or right
its a fun read with the added elements of christmas. animals and a bit of spice...
December 11, 2024
This was a perfect book for animal lovers. Mia, a retired widow and volunteer at an animal dog shelter and matchmaker, is using a charity to set her granddaughter up on a series of dates with her granddaughter's friend. These dates are perfect opportunities for Sammi and Keegan to get close, providing some really sweet scenes. Sadly, I could not fully invest in them for several reasons.
The first is that the book is a mix of second-chance and friends-to-lovers tropes. The second-chance aspect was a bit frustrating because, to me, Keegan's reasons for running away were not fully developed and seemed a bit shallow to justify these few months apart. These issues could have been resolved with honest communication if her feelings were truly that deep. At first, I had trouble liking her and wanted to see Sammi make Keegan more jealous and regretful of her loss. Instead, it was the other way around, and Sammi deserved better.
Secondly, I didn't genuinely feel the friendship between them or deep feelings. It was all about heart fluttering or good smells. Some chapters are from Mia's POV, which was refreshing but didn't add much to the story.
Overall, if you're looking for a simple, light, low-angst holiday romance, with cute dogs go for it.
The first is that the book is a mix of second-chance and friends-to-lovers tropes. The second-chance aspect was a bit frustrating because, to me, Keegan's reasons for running away were not fully developed and seemed a bit shallow to justify these few months apart. These issues could have been resolved with honest communication if her feelings were truly that deep. At first, I had trouble liking her and wanted to see Sammi make Keegan more jealous and regretful of her loss. Instead, it was the other way around, and Sammi deserved better.
Secondly, I didn't genuinely feel the friendship between them or deep feelings. It was all about heart fluttering or good smells. Some chapters are from Mia's POV, which was refreshing but didn't add much to the story.
Overall, if you're looking for a simple, light, low-angst holiday romance, with cute dogs go for it.
November 11, 2024
This was cute but odd.
The first chapter threw me off. And made me question Keegan through out the book until about 3/4 of the way through the book.
Unfortunately that made the chemistry between the two mains strained. I know they were supposed to be attracted to each other but I never felt it.
There is tons of "cute" with the dogs and Grandma and mom.
A light holiday read.
The first chapter threw me off. And made me question Keegan through out the book until about 3/4 of the way through the book.
Unfortunately that made the chemistry between the two mains strained. I know they were supposed to be attracted to each other but I never felt it.
There is tons of "cute" with the dogs and Grandma and mom.
A light holiday read.
October 18, 2024
This Christmas was a sweet holiday romance with a lot of cute dogs, a meddling grandma, a Christmas campaign…and some agonizing “I can’t share my big love feelings!!!!” from one of the MC’s.
The characters were very human and tangible, and I loved getting to see the perspectives of not only both love interests but also the grandma. That was so endearing.
The characters were very human and tangible, and I loved getting to see the perspectives of not only both love interests but also the grandma. That was so endearing.
December 27, 2024
I would describe this novel as very nice, but underwhelming. This was a pleasant and cute holiday story full of dogs, romance, meddling family, and delightful winter wonderland scenes. If you like dogs (I do!), this novel has a lot to offer with plenty of descriptions of our furry friends. Our protagonists go through a number of pleasant scenes and nice moments. This was an easy read with essentially zero stress and very low stakes, which is sometimes exactly what you want around the holidays. The supporting characters were exactly that; very supporting and loving and overall delightful to read. There were some truly heartwarming scenes involving the doggos, which I loved.
My Rating: "C"
GoodReads: 3-stars
The novel was, unfortunately, a little boring. I never found myself drawn in and there wasn’t really anything to grab my attention. It felt like we were going through the paces. There wasn’t much plot, which is honestly fine in a romance novel depending on what else you get, but there also wasn’t a lot of romance either. The premise was an instant hit with some meddling family and forced proximity, however they didn’t DO very much with those building blocks. I simply didn’t feel the usual fun tension or longing or whatever else you would expect from that kind of premise.
Possible minor spoiler (although this is mostly from the prologue): My biggest issue was the relationship, or rather the barriers that they were facing. It was very underwhelming. The issue was essentially that one character got spooked and then they never discussed the possibility of a relationship again. I expected some underlying issue or history that the character needed to overcome, but nothing ever came of this point. They both liked each other, but neither would do anything about it, and without any compelling reason. It was such a minor conflict, and so easily overcome, that the entire novel was underwhelming to the point of being a bit frustrating.
I was also confused about the protagonist’s relationship. It seemed like they had been friends for a long time, then it was said they had only “ran into each other a bunch of times before trying a date”, and then it seemed like they were great but infrequent friends….. I just never really figured it out and had trouble connecting with it.
All said though, this was an easy read with some heartwarming bits in it. I am sure that some readers would connect with the story more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
My Rating: "C"
GoodReads: 3-stars
The novel was, unfortunately, a little boring. I never found myself drawn in and there wasn’t really anything to grab my attention. It felt like we were going through the paces. There wasn’t much plot, which is honestly fine in a romance novel depending on what else you get, but there also wasn’t a lot of romance either. The premise was an instant hit with some meddling family and forced proximity, however they didn’t DO very much with those building blocks. I simply didn’t feel the usual fun tension or longing or whatever else you would expect from that kind of premise.
Possible minor spoiler (although this is mostly from the prologue): My biggest issue was the relationship, or rather the barriers that they were facing. It was very underwhelming. The issue was essentially that one character got spooked and then they never discussed the possibility of a relationship again. I expected some underlying issue or history that the character needed to overcome, but nothing ever came of this point. They both liked each other, but neither would do anything about it, and without any compelling reason. It was such a minor conflict, and so easily overcome, that the entire novel was underwhelming to the point of being a bit frustrating.
I was also confused about the protagonist’s relationship. It seemed like they had been friends for a long time, then it was said they had only “ran into each other a bunch of times before trying a date”, and then it seemed like they were great but infrequent friends….. I just never really figured it out and had trouble connecting with it.
All said though, this was an easy read with some heartwarming bits in it. I am sure that some readers would connect with the story more than I did.
Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.
November 6, 2024
Thank you NetGalley & Bold Strokes Books for an ARC of This Christmas!
A queer love story centered around a no-kill shelter? Count me in! When I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I had to request it. I was so happy when I was approved that I started reading it immediately. My first holiday novel of the year! Never too early right?
I immediately fell in love with the story, the town, Sammi, Keegan, Mia, Maggie and all the doggies! The writer made it extremely easy to connect with the characters instantly.
This was the cutest, most charming holiday read and I recommend everyone pick it up immediately!
A queer love story centered around a no-kill shelter? Count me in! When I read the synopsis for this book, I knew I had to request it. I was so happy when I was approved that I started reading it immediately. My first holiday novel of the year! Never too early right?
I immediately fell in love with the story, the town, Sammi, Keegan, Mia, Maggie and all the doggies! The writer made it extremely easy to connect with the characters instantly.
This was the cutest, most charming holiday read and I recommend everyone pick it up immediately!
November 30, 2024
I never understood what the problem was between the two MC's. The Sammi character seemed really sweet but the Keegan character didn't seem to want to be around her. Most of the story was just really sad to me and a bit depressing.
December 10, 2024
Very sweet!
Sam and her friend Keegan are voted as the queen and queen for the promotional events Junebug animal shelter are doing to raise funds and awareness during the Christmas period. With unshared feelings for one another between them, Sam and Keegan go about their duties as the queens but with volunteer Mia doing all she can to get them together because they seem clueless on their own, will the magic of Christmas and the loving animals they are helping bring them the romance they deserve.
This was so unbelievably amazing and cute! It had all the magic of a Christmas romance with a bit of a set up and some very cute furry companions to make it all the more special. There was an awkwardness between Sam and Keegan that could have resulted in the whole promotion of Junebug becoming a disaster but I admired their willing to try and overcome all of that to do what was right for the animal shelter and the community. In each other they found support and their friendship only grew, with each of them using their strengths to help each other get through their commitments and enjoy them.
Then there were these turning points where it was obvious they were meant to be together and that Mia’s assumptions and plan to put them together was the right thing to do. They melted my heart having fun together, taking care of one another, and developing a relationship that was envious because of how cute it was, but there was something else between them, that thing stopping them from crossing that line. However when it comes down to it and they admit to others in their lives that there might be something there we really learn the truth, and suddenly everything makes sense.
I loved every second of this story! It was packed with emotion, sentiments that were completely heart-warming and cute little furry friends. It’s a must read to get you all cosy and ready for Christmas.
Sam and her friend Keegan are voted as the queen and queen for the promotional events Junebug animal shelter are doing to raise funds and awareness during the Christmas period. With unshared feelings for one another between them, Sam and Keegan go about their duties as the queens but with volunteer Mia doing all she can to get them together because they seem clueless on their own, will the magic of Christmas and the loving animals they are helping bring them the romance they deserve.
This was so unbelievably amazing and cute! It had all the magic of a Christmas romance with a bit of a set up and some very cute furry companions to make it all the more special. There was an awkwardness between Sam and Keegan that could have resulted in the whole promotion of Junebug becoming a disaster but I admired their willing to try and overcome all of that to do what was right for the animal shelter and the community. In each other they found support and their friendship only grew, with each of them using their strengths to help each other get through their commitments and enjoy them.
Then there were these turning points where it was obvious they were meant to be together and that Mia’s assumptions and plan to put them together was the right thing to do. They melted my heart having fun together, taking care of one another, and developing a relationship that was envious because of how cute it was, but there was something else between them, that thing stopping them from crossing that line. However when it comes down to it and they admit to others in their lives that there might be something there we really learn the truth, and suddenly everything makes sense.
I loved every second of this story! It was packed with emotion, sentiments that were completely heart-warming and cute little furry friends. It’s a must read to get you all cosy and ready for Christmas.
December 12, 2024
Georgia Beers is one of my favorite authors but sadly, her last couple of books have missed the mark for me. Perhaps my expectations are still too high after the masterpiece that was Dance with Me, but once I reached the end of this book I found myself once again sighing in disappointment.
It’s hard to put my finger on exactly what was missing for me but it would be best described as a lack of character development and two distinct voices for Sam and Keegan. Also the way the book started was kind of odd and Keegan’s reason for doing what she did just didn’t seem fleshed out enough to be believable. While none of Beers’ books are overly long, this one was definitely on the shorter side and I think that led to the lack of depth as well. Perhaps taking a little more time and sticking to single-person pov may serve her better in the future.
But alas, they can’t all be home runs and I’ll still read every darn thing she writes like the true Beers fan I am!
It’s hard to put my finger on exactly what was missing for me but it would be best described as a lack of character development and two distinct voices for Sam and Keegan. Also the way the book started was kind of odd and Keegan’s reason for doing what she did just didn’t seem fleshed out enough to be believable. While none of Beers’ books are overly long, this one was definitely on the shorter side and I think that led to the lack of depth as well. Perhaps taking a little more time and sticking to single-person pov may serve her better in the future.
But alas, they can’t all be home runs and I’ll still read every darn thing she writes like the true Beers fan I am!
October 24, 2024
Who does love a good romance book and dogs?!
Perfect for the Christmas holiday! This love story gets you right in the spirit and makes you want to bring home a new furry friend for the holidays!
Perfect for the Christmas holiday! This love story gets you right in the spirit and makes you want to bring home a new furry friend for the holidays!
December 4, 2024
In this heartwarming holiday tale, two women, Sammi and Keegan, find themselves unexpectedly thrust back into each other’s lives after a strong romantic connection a year ago that ended in unresolved tension. Thanks to the clever meddling of a spirited grandmother, who subtly rigs a fundraiser at Junebug Farms animal shelter, the two women are crowned co-queens of a holiday fundraising venture. Now, they must collaborate during a series of charming activities to help raise donations for the animal shelter after they lost state funding. Against the backdrop of festive pre-Christmas cheer, adorable animals, and a close-knit community, Sammi and Keegan navigate their unresolved past while rediscovering love in the most unexpected ways. Brimming with warmth and holiday magic, this delightful sotry is the perfect feel-good Christmas read.
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! The holiday setting at Junebug Farms, with its cozy charm and adorable rescue animals, instantly pulled me in. I loved how the story centered on Sammi and Keegan, with their complicated and unresolved past, as they were lovingly pushed together by Mia, the ultimate matchmaking grandma. The “twist” of them becoming queens (instead of a king and queen) of the Christmas festivities was so fun, especially as they had to spend time together creating heartwarming vignettes to support the animal shelter. The mix of festive cheer, quirky characters, and touching moments made it impossible to put down. While there were times that I was frustrated with Keegan’s thought process and lack of communication, I felt like it made the book all the more realistic. I also really enjoyed how the chapters provided the different perspectives of Keegan, Sammi, and Mia throughout the book. This Christmas wasn’t just a holiday romance - it was a celebration of love, community, and second chances, wrapped up in the perfect Christmas bow. Somehow this was my first book by Georgia Beers but it most definitely will not be my last!
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. and NetGalley for the opportunity to read to an ARC of This Christmas in return for my honest review.
This book was an absolute delight from start to finish! The holiday setting at Junebug Farms, with its cozy charm and adorable rescue animals, instantly pulled me in. I loved how the story centered on Sammi and Keegan, with their complicated and unresolved past, as they were lovingly pushed together by Mia, the ultimate matchmaking grandma. The “twist” of them becoming queens (instead of a king and queen) of the Christmas festivities was so fun, especially as they had to spend time together creating heartwarming vignettes to support the animal shelter. The mix of festive cheer, quirky characters, and touching moments made it impossible to put down. While there were times that I was frustrated with Keegan’s thought process and lack of communication, I felt like it made the book all the more realistic. I also really enjoyed how the chapters provided the different perspectives of Keegan, Sammi, and Mia throughout the book. This Christmas wasn’t just a holiday romance - it was a celebration of love, community, and second chances, wrapped up in the perfect Christmas bow. Somehow this was my first book by Georgia Beers but it most definitely will not be my last!
Thank you to Bold Strokes Books, Inc. and NetGalley for the opportunity to read to an ARC of This Christmas in return for my honest review.
December 6, 2024
We're back at Junebug Farm!! This time we visit with Sammi and Keegan, two best friends that everyone knows should be more. They almost were a year ago, but Keegan panicked and things have gotten weird between the two women. Then grandma Mia steps in, and some adorable dogs.
This is a beautiful friends to lovers, slow burn love story! As with all of Georgia Beers books, I love this!! 5 stars!
This is a beautiful friends to lovers, slow burn love story! As with all of Georgia Beers books, I love this!! 5 stars!
October 29, 2024
Thank you NetGalley for providing me an ARC.
I always like a friends to lovers, forced proximity trope. Forced proximity is one of my favourites and friends to lovers can be amazing. I enjoyed both Keegan & Sammi, however, something felt distant about their friendship in general. The vibes and chemistry were not there. I understand there was a reason in the prologue for the "falling out" but the relationship was awkward and I couldn't get behind it until the very end. There isn't enough background on their friendship for me to really appreciate their friends to lovers romance.
The entire first half of the book, I wasn't a huge fan of Keegan due to the prologue because she never explained herself. Sammie seemed mature and understood her emotions and it felt like Keegan and her were polar opposites. Toward the end, Keegan does become more relatable but I feel this should be explained earlier on to make her character more valued.
I did enjoy all the characters in general though and the heartwarming messages within the book. I loved how supportive the families were and that this book showcased a shelter. Shelters are especially issues near the holidays (I own 5 fur babies), and I love that this was in the book. I did enjoy the entire ending too, it made me smile and I felt the romance at the end.
Overall, it was a cute read and I did enjoy it.
I always like a friends to lovers, forced proximity trope. Forced proximity is one of my favourites and friends to lovers can be amazing. I enjoyed both Keegan & Sammi, however, something felt distant about their friendship in general. The vibes and chemistry were not there. I understand there was a reason in the prologue for the "falling out" but the relationship was awkward and I couldn't get behind it until the very end. There isn't enough background on their friendship for me to really appreciate their friends to lovers romance.
The entire first half of the book, I wasn't a huge fan of Keegan due to the prologue because she never explained herself. Sammie seemed mature and understood her emotions and it felt like Keegan and her were polar opposites. Toward the end, Keegan does become more relatable but I feel this should be explained earlier on to make her character more valued.
I did enjoy all the characters in general though and the heartwarming messages within the book. I loved how supportive the families were and that this book showcased a shelter. Shelters are especially issues near the holidays (I own 5 fur babies), and I love that this was in the book. I did enjoy the entire ending too, it made me smile and I felt the romance at the end.
Overall, it was a cute read and I did enjoy it.
December 1, 2025
terrible start to my sapphic christmas reading tradition
November 12, 2024
Keegan and Sammi are best friends and it’s obvious to everyone that they should be more but when they decided to act on their feelings Keegan freaks out and every since then it’s been a bit awkward but they still have that close bond. Sammi grandmother Mia is determined to get theses two to get together before it’s too late she decided to rig the annual Christmas parade so her granddaughter Sammi and Keegan can be Queen and Queen as filming adorable Christmas vignettes that can help adopt puppies into loving homes. This was cute Christmas romance love getting to go back and visit Junebug Farms love all the characters especially the dogs and puppies so cute how they played a part the Sammi and Keegan have great chemistry I like that the angst was them standing in their own way.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.
December 30, 2025
Keegan and Sammi had been friends, which then for half a night became something more. However, this was abandoned in the throes of passion by Keegan, leaving Sammi confused, frustrated and sad. But that never really made her feel any animosity towards Keegan, and their friendship continued, albeit a bit more distant.
One of the central (and best written) parts of this story is the Junebug Farms animal shelter, where Sammi’s gran Mia volunteers, often Sammi can also be found there, and Keegan takes her kindergarten class for visits. Walking the shelter dogs is an integral part of this story, and the dogs’ characters are almost as well written as their people.
A story by one of the most established and experienced writers in the sapphic genre, but not one of her best. In places a bit confusing, especially concerning the previous friendship between Keegan and Sammi. The romance is sparingly applied, with the shelter and the dogs being the main focus. This is Hallmarkish, a bit cheesy, but ideal for a completely zero angst Christmas feel-good story. Even Keegan’s breakup with her ex is a non-event, bringing no confrontation and no angst. All of this isn’t a bad thing at all, if you want something prosaic. Confrontations are difficult for me to read, and so this is an ideal story if what I want to read is ‘easy’.
One of the central (and best written) parts of this story is the Junebug Farms animal shelter, where Sammi’s gran Mia volunteers, often Sammi can also be found there, and Keegan takes her kindergarten class for visits. Walking the shelter dogs is an integral part of this story, and the dogs’ characters are almost as well written as their people.
A story by one of the most established and experienced writers in the sapphic genre, but not one of her best. In places a bit confusing, especially concerning the previous friendship between Keegan and Sammi. The romance is sparingly applied, with the shelter and the dogs being the main focus. This is Hallmarkish, a bit cheesy, but ideal for a completely zero angst Christmas feel-good story. Even Keegan’s breakup with her ex is a non-event, bringing no confrontation and no angst. All of this isn’t a bad thing at all, if you want something prosaic. Confrontations are difficult for me to read, and so this is an ideal story if what I want to read is ‘easy’.
November 19, 2025
This was such a cute Christmas story! And so many dogs!! I really enjoyed it and highly recommend. The audiobook is also done very well.
Written in third person with 3x POVs. Narrated by Lula Larkin. Friends to Lovers, Second Chance, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Lots of Dogs. 1x Spicy Scene (Minimal Description).
Written in third person with 3x POVs. Narrated by Lula Larkin. Friends to Lovers, Second Chance, Forced Proximity, Slow Burn, Lots of Dogs. 1x Spicy Scene (Minimal Description).
October 28, 2024
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I really liked the premise of this book, friends to lovers forced to spend time together sounded really cute. But unfortunately, something about the relationship between Sammi and Keegan just didn't work for me. I wasn't really feeling their chemistry and their "friendship" seemed weird and distant. From the description I was thinking they were friends from childhood or best friends for a long time. Instead, they are friends for only a few years and hangout sporadically, have their embarrassing incident, and then text with an occasional hangout into the present time. It just didn't really give me the vibe of mutual longtime pining, angst, and chemistry that I typically prefer in a friends to lovers trope.
Also, I didn't really like Keegan's actions in the beginning. She pulls away from Samantha during the prologue scene, and doesn't explain herself at all, just says, "I can't." Then, she proceeds to hardcore friend-zone Sammi and dates someone else out of the blue. She also knows that Sammi is jealous, and it doesn't seem to matter to her much. I didn't get any sense of longing or regret on Keegan's part for the first half of the book.
There is a lot that is told and not shown in this book regarding their "friendship", and I think it really detracted from the romance for me. It made it difficult to care about the characters and whether or not they ended up together.
Despite these issues, however, there were still some great things about this book. I really enjoyed how supportive both of their families were, and the fundraiser scenes were still pretty cute. My favorite part of the book was Beckett, and I'm very glad he and Sammi had a happy ending.
Overall, this wasn't my favorite Georgia Beers. I think it's a cute holiday romance but despite the description didn't quite feel like a true friends to lovers trope to me. 3.2/5 stars.
I really liked the premise of this book, friends to lovers forced to spend time together sounded really cute. But unfortunately, something about the relationship between Sammi and Keegan just didn't work for me. I wasn't really feeling their chemistry and their "friendship" seemed weird and distant. From the description I was thinking they were friends from childhood or best friends for a long time. Instead, they are friends for only a few years and hangout sporadically, have their embarrassing incident, and then text with an occasional hangout into the present time. It just didn't really give me the vibe of mutual longtime pining, angst, and chemistry that I typically prefer in a friends to lovers trope.
Also, I didn't really like Keegan's actions in the beginning. She pulls away from Samantha during the prologue scene, and doesn't explain herself at all, just says, "I can't." Then, she proceeds to hardcore friend-zone Sammi and dates someone else out of the blue. She also knows that Sammi is jealous, and it doesn't seem to matter to her much. I didn't get any sense of longing or regret on Keegan's part for the first half of the book.
There is a lot that is told and not shown in this book regarding their "friendship", and I think it really detracted from the romance for me. It made it difficult to care about the characters and whether or not they ended up together.
Despite these issues, however, there were still some great things about this book. I really enjoyed how supportive both of their families were, and the fundraiser scenes were still pretty cute. My favorite part of the book was Beckett, and I'm very glad he and Sammi had a happy ending.
Overall, this wasn't my favorite Georgia Beers. I think it's a cute holiday romance but despite the description didn't quite feel like a true friends to lovers trope to me. 3.2/5 stars.
December 8, 2024
This was really cute! I was rooting for the couple from the very beginning. They are so sweet together and they love animals maybe as much as I do. Add in a funny, meddling grandma, lots of dogs, and a snowy Christmas setting and you’ve got the perfect book 😍
November 9, 2024
my review: okay
October 22, 2024
3.5 stars. Really solid holiday romance with second chance trope. It's light and rather quick read, great for the upcoming holiday weekends. Georgia Beers can write an entertaining romance. There are dogs, holiday and winter activities, and pining. The book is very mild on the spice scale.
The romance itself with forced proximity was worth 4 stars but I didn't really care about the grandmother. To be more exact, I didn't like the feeling I got that the novel was as much or even more about Grams than it was about Keegan and Samantha.
In romcoms it's usual to have meddling friends or relatives. It can be annoying or something positive that pushes the story forwards. In This Christmas, it was the latter, and it worked - but I didn't like that Grams had her own POV sections. It misguided the attention from the main couple and took time and space from knowing them better. I think having the 3rd POV can go both ways depending on the reader.
ARC copy received via NetGalley.
The romance itself with forced proximity was worth 4 stars but I didn't really care about the grandmother. To be more exact, I didn't like the feeling I got that the novel was as much or even more about Grams than it was about Keegan and Samantha.
In romcoms it's usual to have meddling friends or relatives. It can be annoying or something positive that pushes the story forwards. In This Christmas, it was the latter, and it worked - but I didn't like that Grams had her own POV sections. It misguided the attention from the main couple and took time and space from knowing them better. I think having the 3rd POV can go both ways depending on the reader.
ARC copy received via NetGalley.
November 25, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
„And then you came along, and there I was, diving in headfirst because everything was so good. Everything just fit.”
Let me start off by saying that this book changed the dream life I would want. Instead of opening an bookstore I now want to own an animal shelter with only queer employees and own sheep. So, that’s that.
This book had the most perfect christmas vibes ever, and actually liked the romance storyline, even though it is a second chance romance, which I usually don’t like.
What I think made this book special was that every single character had a funtion. Every little side character felt like their own person and not just a supporting character.
I really enjoyed the way the two main characters interacted with each other. They took their relationship slow and even though they fit perfectly, they still hit little bumps in the road leading up to their HEA. But every time that happened they actually talked to each other and the normal human level of awkwardness was definitely detectable in those conversations.
I feel like I need to mention the dogs too. There were so many dogs in this book. So many. Even they all had their own personalities and were treated so great!
Tropes
🐶second chance
🎄holiday romance
🐶forced proximity
🎄friends to lovers
🐶sick/comfort
🎄meddling family
I want to thank Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for providing me with a copy of this novel ahead of release. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 13, 2024
"This Christmas" by Georgia Beers is a heartwarming holiday romance that perfectly captures the spirit of the season with its delightful blend of matchmaking antics and furry friends. The charming backdrop of Junebug Farms, an animal shelter, adds a layer of warmth as Mia Sorenson orchestrates a clever plan to unite her granddaughter Samantha and her friend Keegan, who are both too stubborn to embrace their feelings after an awkward past.
Beers skillfully balances humor and emotion, making the characters relatable and their journey to love both entertaining and realistic. While the premise may tread familiar ground, the engaging writing and endearing cast bring a fresh twist to the holiday romance genre.
Overall, it's a delightful read that will leave you with a smile and a sense of holiday cheer, making it a perfect companion for a cozy winter evening. Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC.
Beers skillfully balances humor and emotion, making the characters relatable and their journey to love both entertaining and realistic. While the premise may tread familiar ground, the engaging writing and endearing cast bring a fresh twist to the holiday romance genre.
Overall, it's a delightful read that will leave you with a smile and a sense of holiday cheer, making it a perfect companion for a cozy winter evening. Thank you NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC.
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