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Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah #3
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels: A Hanukkah Romance
Her childhood crush may be her best story yet.
Journalist Jessica Sacks’s career is on the line if she doesn’t ace this next assignment. She must interview firefighter Thomas Carville, Browerville’s celebrated hero—and her forever crush since childhood. When Jessica returns home for Hanukkah, handsome Thomas takes her breath away. And rudely shuts her down when she asks for an interview.
Thomas knows he and the man he saved are both lucky to be alive, regardless of his actions. And now Jessica is poking into his business. Thomas would rather kiss her under the mistletoe than answer her questions. But his priority is protecting his sobriety and his secret. They’re as far apart as Christmas and Hanukkah, but even their differences can’t trump the power of love.
Journalist Jessica Sacks’s career is on the line if she doesn’t ace this next assignment. She must interview firefighter Thomas Carville, Browerville’s celebrated hero—and her forever crush since childhood. When Jessica returns home for Hanukkah, handsome Thomas takes her breath away. And rudely shuts her down when she asks for an interview.
Thomas knows he and the man he saved are both lucky to be alive, regardless of his actions. And now Jessica is poking into his business. Thomas would rather kiss her under the mistletoe than answer her questions. But his priority is protecting his sobriety and his secret. They’re as far apart as Christmas and Hanukkah, but even their differences can’t trump the power of love.
272 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 1, 2024
7 people are currently reading
905 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Wilck
42 books476 followersJennifer Wilck is an award-winning contemporary romance author for readers who are passionate about love, laughter, and happily ever after. Known for writing both Jewish and non-Jewish romances, her books feature damaged heroes, sassy and independent heroines, witty banter and hot chemistry. Jennifer’s ability to transport the reader into the scene, create characters the reader will fall in love with, and evoke a roller coaster of emotions, will hook you from the first page. You can find her books at all major online retailers in a variety of formats.
Jennifer started telling herself stories as a little girl when she couldn’t fall asleep at night. Her favorite stories to write are those with smart, sassy, independent heroines; handsome, strong and slightly vulnerable heroes; and her stories always end with happily ever after.
In the real world, she’s the mother of two amazing daughters and wife of one of the smartest men she knows. She believes humor is the only way to get through the day and does not believe in sharing her chocolate.
Jennifer started telling herself stories as a little girl when she couldn’t fall asleep at night. Her favorite stories to write are those with smart, sassy, independent heroines; handsome, strong and slightly vulnerable heroes; and her stories always end with happily ever after.
In the real world, she’s the mother of two amazing daughters and wife of one of the smartest men she knows. She believes humor is the only way to get through the day and does not believe in sharing her chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 19, 2025
On my quest to read Hanukkah romances this year, I went back to Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels, which was on my radar last year when it was released—I just didn’t get around to it. Because I don’t generally read blurbs, I didn’t know this was a Chrismukkah romance, but I’m not mad about it since a bunch of Jennifer Wilck’s books are interfaith and she knows how to write that story.
After being fired from her investigative journalism job, Jessica Sacks is given one last chance to save her career: break a big story. She returns to her hometown of Browerville, New Jersey, to investigate a devastating fire at the local history museum—one that nearly killed an employee and turned firefighter Thomas Carville, her childhood crush, into a local hero.
Thomas wants no part of the attention and refuses to talk about the night of the fire, especially to a reporter. But as Jessica stays home for the holidays and they begin spending time together, old feelings resurface and new ones grow. As Jessica uncovers the truth behind the fire, both she and Thomas must decide what they’re willing to risk—for honesty, for their careers, and for a relationship complicated by distance and differing faiths.
There was a lot to love about this book, but also some errors that I think came from the editing process.
I really enjoyed that we had full character arcs for both Jessica and Thomas. They’re both at professional crossroads, and it would have been so easy for Jennifer Wilck to gloss over one in favor of the other, but she gave both of their storylines room to breathe. I bought into the resolution for both of them and really appreciated that she did not have Jessica give up her career in the city for the hometown boy. We don’t do that in 2025.
The representations of both Hanukkah and Christmas felt nuanced and authentic. I am this exact mix of interfaith—Catholic and Jewish—and I think a lot of people don’t see just how much both groups have in common. While the religious beliefs might not overlap, there is a lot of cultural overlap between the two. I really liked watching Jessica and Thomas get to know each other’s traditions and, more importantly, why those traditions are important to them.
The big issue I had with this book was that it felt like the editing process was rushed and sloppy. There were chunks of the emotional arc of the romance that felt disconnected from what came before, almost as if something had been cut from the book that would have explained the jump in the relationship. I don’t know for a fact if that’s what happened, but that’s how the text read. It was specifically the romance that suffered from this issue, which leads me to believe there were scenes on the cutting-room floor between Jessica and Thomas that would have filled in the gaps.
Despite the editing issues, I still had fun reading this; I just wish the book had gotten another pass to ensure continuity. 3 stars.
After being fired from her investigative journalism job, Jessica Sacks is given one last chance to save her career: break a big story. She returns to her hometown of Browerville, New Jersey, to investigate a devastating fire at the local history museum—one that nearly killed an employee and turned firefighter Thomas Carville, her childhood crush, into a local hero.
Thomas wants no part of the attention and refuses to talk about the night of the fire, especially to a reporter. But as Jessica stays home for the holidays and they begin spending time together, old feelings resurface and new ones grow. As Jessica uncovers the truth behind the fire, both she and Thomas must decide what they’re willing to risk—for honesty, for their careers, and for a relationship complicated by distance and differing faiths.
There was a lot to love about this book, but also some errors that I think came from the editing process.
I really enjoyed that we had full character arcs for both Jessica and Thomas. They’re both at professional crossroads, and it would have been so easy for Jennifer Wilck to gloss over one in favor of the other, but she gave both of their storylines room to breathe. I bought into the resolution for both of them and really appreciated that she did not have Jessica give up her career in the city for the hometown boy. We don’t do that in 2025.
The representations of both Hanukkah and Christmas felt nuanced and authentic. I am this exact mix of interfaith—Catholic and Jewish—and I think a lot of people don’t see just how much both groups have in common. While the religious beliefs might not overlap, there is a lot of cultural overlap between the two. I really liked watching Jessica and Thomas get to know each other’s traditions and, more importantly, why those traditions are important to them.
The big issue I had with this book was that it felt like the editing process was rushed and sloppy. There were chunks of the emotional arc of the romance that felt disconnected from what came before, almost as if something had been cut from the book that would have explained the jump in the relationship. I don’t know for a fact if that’s what happened, but that’s how the text read. It was specifically the romance that suffered from this issue, which leads me to believe there were scenes on the cutting-room floor between Jessica and Thomas that would have filled in the gaps.
Despite the editing issues, I still had fun reading this; I just wish the book had gotten another pass to ensure continuity. 3 stars.
December 14, 2024
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels is book 3 in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series. You definitely don’t have to read them all in order but it’s really enjoyable reading about characters from the previous novels who pop up in each of the other books.
Here we have journalist Jessica and firefighter Thomas. Jessica’s job is on the line due a mistake she made, so she’s sent off to cover a story in her suburban small town. Thomas is a firefighter who’s saved a like but has a secret and wants no part of Jessica interviewing him for her story on the fire. In addition Jessica grew up next door to Thomas and had a crush on him when she was younger. When they see each other again there’s immediate attraction but they try to avoid getting involved. Thomas because he doesn’t want Jessica digging into his life, Jessica because she doesn’t want Thomas thinking she’s using him to save her job. Jennifer Wilck does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life. The storyline of them getting to know each other and subsequently falling for each other completely draws the reader in. The obstacles to their relationship are realistically written and you are fully invested in Jessica and Thomas’s story. Additionally there is the storyline of Jessica and Thomas having religious differences and while the storyline of them challenging each other in a holiday decorating contest is sweet and fun, the issue of antisemitism is handled as well. There aren’t enough romances which feature Jewish characters and interfaith relationships and Jennifer Wilck does an excellent job of depicting a realistic relationship dealing with all sorts of challenges including religious differences.
And of course because this is a wonderful romance there is a misunderstanding and an amazing happily ever after! I can’t wait to read more from Jennifer Wilck!
Here we have journalist Jessica and firefighter Thomas. Jessica’s job is on the line due a mistake she made, so she’s sent off to cover a story in her suburban small town. Thomas is a firefighter who’s saved a like but has a secret and wants no part of Jessica interviewing him for her story on the fire. In addition Jessica grew up next door to Thomas and had a crush on him when she was younger. When they see each other again there’s immediate attraction but they try to avoid getting involved. Thomas because he doesn’t want Jessica digging into his life, Jessica because she doesn’t want Thomas thinking she’s using him to save her job. Jennifer Wilck does an amazing job of bringing these characters to life. The storyline of them getting to know each other and subsequently falling for each other completely draws the reader in. The obstacles to their relationship are realistically written and you are fully invested in Jessica and Thomas’s story. Additionally there is the storyline of Jessica and Thomas having religious differences and while the storyline of them challenging each other in a holiday decorating contest is sweet and fun, the issue of antisemitism is handled as well. There aren’t enough romances which feature Jewish characters and interfaith relationships and Jennifer Wilck does an excellent job of depicting a realistic relationship dealing with all sorts of challenges including religious differences.
And of course because this is a wonderful romance there is a misunderstanding and an amazing happily ever after! I can’t wait to read more from Jennifer Wilck!
December 23, 2024
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels is the third book in the Jennifer Wilck’s Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series. While I haven’t read the first two, I didn’t find it necessary (even though those main characters in this book) but I’m also intrigued by the fact that each book is set around a different Jewish holiday.
This one, clearly, falls at Hanukkah. The story follows Jessica, a journalist who’s recently been fired from her job and has a chance to earn it back by covering a heroic firefighter rescue in her hometown. The firefighter in question happens to be her former next-door neighbour, Thomas, on whom she used to have a massive crush. The one problem: Thomas doesn’t want to talk about the rescue at all. Jessica needs the interview to finish her article and win back her job. This obviously causes tension between Jessica and Thomas, as they begin to get closer.
Woven throughout the novel is a holiday decorating contest in the town, as well as Hanukkah references and preparation by Jessica’s family. While Thomas is decorating his house for Christmas, Jessica sets out to win the contest with her festive Hanukkah theme.
One of the book’s core themes is interfaith relationships. Thomas is not Jewish and Jessica’s parents don’t approve. Her mom says: “relationships are complicated enough when you both come from the same background.” There’s also some discussion of antisemitism, but it feels very surface level and just thrown out as a reason to be against intermarriage. As Jessica grows closer to Thomas, she’s determined to prove her parents wrong.
I struggled with this review because while I’m obviously appreciative of Jewish representation, that doesn’t mean I connect with every book. Unfortunately, I felt like it was a bit repetitive and predictable, and since I didn’t really connect to any of the characters, it fell flat for me. I did like the ending and both Jessica and Thomas’ character growth.
This one, clearly, falls at Hanukkah. The story follows Jessica, a journalist who’s recently been fired from her job and has a chance to earn it back by covering a heroic firefighter rescue in her hometown. The firefighter in question happens to be her former next-door neighbour, Thomas, on whom she used to have a massive crush. The one problem: Thomas doesn’t want to talk about the rescue at all. Jessica needs the interview to finish her article and win back her job. This obviously causes tension between Jessica and Thomas, as they begin to get closer.
Woven throughout the novel is a holiday decorating contest in the town, as well as Hanukkah references and preparation by Jessica’s family. While Thomas is decorating his house for Christmas, Jessica sets out to win the contest with her festive Hanukkah theme.
One of the book’s core themes is interfaith relationships. Thomas is not Jewish and Jessica’s parents don’t approve. Her mom says: “relationships are complicated enough when you both come from the same background.” There’s also some discussion of antisemitism, but it feels very surface level and just thrown out as a reason to be against intermarriage. As Jessica grows closer to Thomas, she’s determined to prove her parents wrong.
I struggled with this review because while I’m obviously appreciative of Jewish representation, that doesn’t mean I connect with every book. Unfortunately, I felt like it was a bit repetitive and predictable, and since I didn’t really connect to any of the characters, it fell flat for me. I did like the ending and both Jessica and Thomas’ character growth.
December 10, 2024
4.5/5 stars
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels is the third book in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series of interconnected standalones. This is Jessica's book. It is a holiday romance.
Sarah and Caroline (the heroines from the two previous books) are in this book. However each book has different narrators. So it is possible to read these books in any order (although there will be some spoilers).
Jessica is a journalist who is sent home to write a story about a heroic firefighter. The only problem is that he doesn't want to be interviewed. The fun part is her past connection to this man.
I really enjoyed the importance of female friendships in this book. And I absolutely loved seeing the women from the previous books. I also really liked Jessica's job. And it was interesting to see how she handled her career vs relationship dilemma.
From the title I knew that Hanukkah would play an important role in the story. However I didn't realize that Thomas (the male lead) was not Jewish. And that interfaith relationships would be such a main focus. This was very interesting. And I liked seeing all of the characters opinions on this subject.
This was a quick enjoyable read. I absolutely adore reading holiday romances. And this book definitely got me in the holiday spirit. I definitely recommend this series.
Thanks to the author for sending me a finished copy of this book.
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidels is the third book in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series of interconnected standalones. This is Jessica's book. It is a holiday romance.
Sarah and Caroline (the heroines from the two previous books) are in this book. However each book has different narrators. So it is possible to read these books in any order (although there will be some spoilers).
Jessica is a journalist who is sent home to write a story about a heroic firefighter. The only problem is that he doesn't want to be interviewed. The fun part is her past connection to this man.
I really enjoyed the importance of female friendships in this book. And I absolutely loved seeing the women from the previous books. I also really liked Jessica's job. And it was interesting to see how she handled her career vs relationship dilemma.
From the title I knew that Hanukkah would play an important role in the story. However I didn't realize that Thomas (the male lead) was not Jewish. And that interfaith relationships would be such a main focus. This was very interesting. And I liked seeing all of the characters opinions on this subject.
This was a quick enjoyable read. I absolutely adore reading holiday romances. And this book definitely got me in the holiday spirit. I definitely recommend this series.
Thanks to the author for sending me a finished copy of this book.
December 26, 2024
3.5
This book was super cute. I liked that it took place in New Jersey and New York. Many characters were Jewish, and I loved the small-town Hanukkah vibes. I also enjoyed that Jessica was a journalist because I could relate to her. Thomas was dark and broody, and I liked that he came out of his shell and could talk about his trauma. I thought the story was paced super well. This also included an interfaith relationship, and it was nice to see Jessica stand up for what she wanted with Thomas, even though her mother was skeptical. The relationship was sweet, and I liked how it developed—some aspects were similar to my own, and that was special. The writing was a bit on the basic side, but overall, this was a cute story for the holiday!
This book was super cute. I liked that it took place in New Jersey and New York. Many characters were Jewish, and I loved the small-town Hanukkah vibes. I also enjoyed that Jessica was a journalist because I could relate to her. Thomas was dark and broody, and I liked that he came out of his shell and could talk about his trauma. I thought the story was paced super well. This also included an interfaith relationship, and it was nice to see Jessica stand up for what she wanted with Thomas, even though her mother was skeptical. The relationship was sweet, and I liked how it developed—some aspects were similar to my own, and that was special. The writing was a bit on the basic side, but overall, this was a cute story for the holiday!
November 16, 2024
I liked this book for Hanukkah season. Jessica Sacks is an investigative reporter who gets fired from her job for a mistake. Her boss offers her a second chance if she can land an interview for an article about her hometown firefighter who saved a man's life in a museum fire. That firefighter is her neighbor growing up, Thomas, who Jessica had a crush on. Except Thomas refuses all interviews.
Jessica finds her way in as a next-door neighbor. Thomas has secrets he isn't willing to share and doesn't trust Jessica or anyone. Every time he lets her in, he tightens up and shoves her away. Even when he gives in to his feelings for Jessica, he then pushes her away again after revealing a secret. Jessica has to decide whether her career or relationship is more important. I didn't really get her attraction to Thomas beyond physical. His personality wasn't so great, and I didn't care for how he treated her, even once he found out why Jessica needed that interview. Jessica went above and beyond to get him to forgive her, but I don't feel Thomas did the same.
I liked Jessica's relationship with her mom and her best friends. Thomas had the support of his AA sponsor and brother and sister. The ending was happy, and I enjoyed the combined traditions. I can appreciate the discussion of antisemitism and intermarriage. I just didn't see what Jessica saw in Thomas. Recovering alcoholic who were ashamed of his secret didn't mean he should have mistreated the woman he said he loved. Other than that, the book would have gotten 4 stars.
Jessica finds her way in as a next-door neighbor. Thomas has secrets he isn't willing to share and doesn't trust Jessica or anyone. Every time he lets her in, he tightens up and shoves her away. Even when he gives in to his feelings for Jessica, he then pushes her away again after revealing a secret. Jessica has to decide whether her career or relationship is more important. I didn't really get her attraction to Thomas beyond physical. His personality wasn't so great, and I didn't care for how he treated her, even once he found out why Jessica needed that interview. Jessica went above and beyond to get him to forgive her, but I don't feel Thomas did the same.
I liked Jessica's relationship with her mom and her best friends. Thomas had the support of his AA sponsor and brother and sister. The ending was happy, and I enjoyed the combined traditions. I can appreciate the discussion of antisemitism and intermarriage. I just didn't see what Jessica saw in Thomas. Recovering alcoholic who were ashamed of his secret didn't mean he should have mistreated the woman he said he loved. Other than that, the book would have gotten 4 stars.
March 8, 2025
Terrific holiday romance full of love, respect, and acceptance. Jessica is an investigative journalist who recently lost her job due to a mistake. Devastated by the loss of her career, which is so much a part of who she is, Jessica leaps at the chance to save her job. All she must do is cover her hometown's heroic firefighter rescue. That firefighter is Thomas, who was her next-door neighbor and childhood crush. Unfortunately for her, Thomas flat-out refuses to talk about the rescue.
Thomas doesn't want to talk about that day. Memories of the rescue haunt him, and he spends most of his time alone renovating his house. Though he has recovered from his injuries, he doesn't know what his future will be.
I enjoyed seeing Jessica and Thomas's relationship develop. Their first few encounters end awkwardly when he rudely refuses her interview requests. Jessica decides that making friends might make him more amenable to her requests. He feels guilty about his rudeness and accepts her friendship but remains wary. I liked watching them get to know each other, beginning with the holiday decoration contest. Neither expects the sparks of attraction that come along with spending time together.
There are obstacles to their growing relationship. Jessica is Jewish, and Thomas is not. This is a particular concern of Jessica's mother, who urges her to be cautious. I loved their open interest in and respect for each other's beliefs and watching them share their traditions.
Another issue is how Thomas is, or isn't, dealing with his feelings about the rescue. The secret he guards so carefully keeps him from fully trusting Jessica. When he inadvertently reveals that secret, he panics and pulls away. But Thomas can't forget his feelings for her and realizes he must deal with his past before contemplating a future with her. Thomas impressed me with his determination and willingness to face that challenge.
Jessica has her own challenges to overcome. From her embarrassment about being fired to her growing discomfort about the article she must write, Jessica must decide what is more important to her. Is it getting her job back or listening to her conscience? I enjoyed following her thoughts and actions as she made her decision.
The ending was an emotional mix of apologies, confessions, and admissions of love. I liked seeing Jessica and Thomas overcome the challenges holding them back. I loved the Hannukah and Christmas scenes that brought both families together and the willingness to learn more about the others' traditions.
The love and support of families and friends are a big part of this book. I loved how Jessica's friends helped her see the truth of her feelings about Thomas and her job. Her parents gave her the foundation of love that gave her the strength to pursue her dreams. I liked how Thomas's father and siblings stood by him through his crisis. I especially liked his brother Liam and how he showed up unexpectedly when he felt Thomas needed him. I also liked how his sponsor, Carl, helped Thomas resolve his dilemma.
Thomas doesn't want to talk about that day. Memories of the rescue haunt him, and he spends most of his time alone renovating his house. Though he has recovered from his injuries, he doesn't know what his future will be.
I enjoyed seeing Jessica and Thomas's relationship develop. Their first few encounters end awkwardly when he rudely refuses her interview requests. Jessica decides that making friends might make him more amenable to her requests. He feels guilty about his rudeness and accepts her friendship but remains wary. I liked watching them get to know each other, beginning with the holiday decoration contest. Neither expects the sparks of attraction that come along with spending time together.
There are obstacles to their growing relationship. Jessica is Jewish, and Thomas is not. This is a particular concern of Jessica's mother, who urges her to be cautious. I loved their open interest in and respect for each other's beliefs and watching them share their traditions.
Another issue is how Thomas is, or isn't, dealing with his feelings about the rescue. The secret he guards so carefully keeps him from fully trusting Jessica. When he inadvertently reveals that secret, he panics and pulls away. But Thomas can't forget his feelings for her and realizes he must deal with his past before contemplating a future with her. Thomas impressed me with his determination and willingness to face that challenge.
Jessica has her own challenges to overcome. From her embarrassment about being fired to her growing discomfort about the article she must write, Jessica must decide what is more important to her. Is it getting her job back or listening to her conscience? I enjoyed following her thoughts and actions as she made her decision.
The ending was an emotional mix of apologies, confessions, and admissions of love. I liked seeing Jessica and Thomas overcome the challenges holding them back. I loved the Hannukah and Christmas scenes that brought both families together and the willingness to learn more about the others' traditions.
The love and support of families and friends are a big part of this book. I loved how Jessica's friends helped her see the truth of her feelings about Thomas and her job. Her parents gave her the foundation of love that gave her the strength to pursue her dreams. I liked how Thomas's father and siblings stood by him through his crisis. I especially liked his brother Liam and how he showed up unexpectedly when he felt Thomas needed him. I also liked how his sponsor, Carl, helped Thomas resolve his dilemma.
October 5, 2024
4.5 stars.
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidls by Jennifer Wilck is a heartwarming romance.
Journalist Jessica Sacks has the chance to possibly save her job by writing an article about her former crush, neighbor and firefighter Thomas Carville. She reluctantly agrees but she is immediately shutdown by Thomas who wants no publicity. Jessica decides to befriend him in hopes he will change his mind. But the closer she gets to Thomas, the less comfortable she feels about the article.
Jessica is a lovely woman whose identity is intertwined with her career. She is shocked when she fired after she makes an honest mistake. Already planning to go home for the upcoming holidays, Jessica is reluctant to tell anyone about her job loss. She is genuinely surprised by Thomas’s refusal for an interview but she is afraid to lose this chance to regain her job. Jessica is also stunned to realize she is still crazy about Thomas but there are more than a few obstacles in the way of a relationship.
Thomas has everything to lose if the truth comes out about the rescue he is celebrated for. He has also yet to come to terms with what his future will be. Instead, he spends most of his time by himself as he renovates his house. Thomas’ conscience gets the best of him so he accepts Jessica’s overtures of friendship. But will a misunderstanding end their chance for a relationship?
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidls is a wonderful holiday romance. Jessica and Thomas are three-dimensional characters with true life issues to overcome. Jennifer Wilck deftly handles religious differences with ease while also spotlighting the very real and ongoing antisemitism in the US and around the world. Although this latest release is the third installment in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series, it can be read as a standalone.
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidls by Jennifer Wilck is a heartwarming romance.
Journalist Jessica Sacks has the chance to possibly save her job by writing an article about her former crush, neighbor and firefighter Thomas Carville. She reluctantly agrees but she is immediately shutdown by Thomas who wants no publicity. Jessica decides to befriend him in hopes he will change his mind. But the closer she gets to Thomas, the less comfortable she feels about the article.
Jessica is a lovely woman whose identity is intertwined with her career. She is shocked when she fired after she makes an honest mistake. Already planning to go home for the upcoming holidays, Jessica is reluctant to tell anyone about her job loss. She is genuinely surprised by Thomas’s refusal for an interview but she is afraid to lose this chance to regain her job. Jessica is also stunned to realize she is still crazy about Thomas but there are more than a few obstacles in the way of a relationship.
Thomas has everything to lose if the truth comes out about the rescue he is celebrated for. He has also yet to come to terms with what his future will be. Instead, he spends most of his time by himself as he renovates his house. Thomas’ conscience gets the best of him so he accepts Jessica’s overtures of friendship. But will a misunderstanding end their chance for a relationship?
Deadlines, Donuts & Dreidls is a wonderful holiday romance. Jessica and Thomas are three-dimensional characters with true life issues to overcome. Jennifer Wilck deftly handles religious differences with ease while also spotlighting the very real and ongoing antisemitism in the US and around the world. Although this latest release is the third installment in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah series, it can be read as a standalone.
October 22, 2024
I absolutely loved Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels. Thomas and Jessica have hurdles to overcome before they can even have a chance for their happily ever after.
Jessica always had a crush on Thomas while they were growing up. As a reporter, she is assigned a story in which he is the hero. Throughout the story, Jessica goes through a thought process that allows her to put the feelings of others ahead of a sensational article.
Thomas, an injured firefighter, has harbored his own demons and does not want any part of Jessica’s story. As he gets to know the now grown up Jessica, he finds himself allowing her into his life on a personal level.
One thing that I truly enjoyed about this book is Jessica and Thomas willingness to learn about each other’s religious beliefs. As Jessica and her family celebrate Hanukkah, Thomas prepares for his family’s Christmas celebration. What started out as a friendly competition, turned into more.
If you are familiar with Jennifer Wilck’s books, you know that she writes stories about acceptance. Not just accepting others, but an acceptance of one’s self. Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels is no exception. Throughout the book, both Jessica and Thomas learn things about their own selves as well as a willingness to learn and grow from each other.
I highly recommend adding Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels to your holiday reading list. I also recommend reading the other books in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah Series, Home for the Challah Days and Matzah Ball Blues. Each book is a standalone centered around a different Jewishn holiday.
Jessica always had a crush on Thomas while they were growing up. As a reporter, she is assigned a story in which he is the hero. Throughout the story, Jessica goes through a thought process that allows her to put the feelings of others ahead of a sensational article.
Thomas, an injured firefighter, has harbored his own demons and does not want any part of Jessica’s story. As he gets to know the now grown up Jessica, he finds himself allowing her into his life on a personal level.
One thing that I truly enjoyed about this book is Jessica and Thomas willingness to learn about each other’s religious beliefs. As Jessica and her family celebrate Hanukkah, Thomas prepares for his family’s Christmas celebration. What started out as a friendly competition, turned into more.
If you are familiar with Jennifer Wilck’s books, you know that she writes stories about acceptance. Not just accepting others, but an acceptance of one’s self. Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels is no exception. Throughout the book, both Jessica and Thomas learn things about their own selves as well as a willingness to learn and grow from each other.
I highly recommend adding Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels to your holiday reading list. I also recommend reading the other books in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah Series, Home for the Challah Days and Matzah Ball Blues. Each book is a standalone centered around a different Jewishn holiday.
October 22, 2024
I absolutely loved Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels. Thomas and Jessica have hurdles to overcome before they can even have a chance for their happily ever after.
Jessica always had a crush on Thomas while they were growing up. As a reporter, she is assigned a story in which he is the hero. Throughout the story, Jessica goes through a thought process that allows her to put the feelings of others ahead of a sensational article.
Thomas, an injured firefighter, has harbored his own demons and does not want any part of Jessica’s story. As he gets to know the now grown up Jessica, he finds himself allowing her into his life on a personal level.
One thing that I truly enjoyed about this book is Jessica and Thomas willingness to learn about each other’s religious beliefs. As Jessica and her family celebrate Hanukkah, Thomas prepares for his family’s Christmas celebration. What started out as a friendly competition, turned into more.
If you are familiar with Jennifer Wilck’s books, you know that she writes stories about acceptance. Not just accepting others, but an acceptance of one’s self. Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels is no exception. Throughout the book, both Jessica and Thomas learn things about their own selves as well as a willingness to learn and grow from each other.
I highly recommend adding Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels to your holiday reading list. I also recommend reading the other books in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah Series, Home for the Challah Days and Matzah Ball Blues. Each book is a standalone centered around a different Jewishn holiday.
Jessica always had a crush on Thomas while they were growing up. As a reporter, she is assigned a story in which he is the hero. Throughout the story, Jessica goes through a thought process that allows her to put the feelings of others ahead of a sensational article.
Thomas, an injured firefighter, has harbored his own demons and does not want any part of Jessica’s story. As he gets to know the now grown up Jessica, he finds himself allowing her into his life on a personal level.
One thing that I truly enjoyed about this book is Jessica and Thomas willingness to learn about each other’s religious beliefs. As Jessica and her family celebrate Hanukkah, Thomas prepares for his family’s Christmas celebration. What started out as a friendly competition, turned into more.
If you are familiar with Jennifer Wilck’s books, you know that she writes stories about acceptance. Not just accepting others, but an acceptance of one’s self. Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels is no exception. Throughout the book, both Jessica and Thomas learn things about their own selves as well as a willingness to learn and grow from each other.
I highly recommend adding Deadlines, Donuts, & Dreidels to your holiday reading list. I also recommend reading the other books in the Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah Series, Home for the Challah Days and Matzah Ball Blues. Each book is a standalone centered around a different Jewishn holiday.
January 4, 2025
3.5. Jessica's been fired from her job as investigative reporter for an error she made, and her one chance to get her job back is to interview the fireman who saved an old man's life a few months ago. Only he's her childhood crush and he will not talk about the fire with anyone. Romance ensues.
This was super super charming. I was really rooting for Thomas to start healing, and it felt earned. I sympathized with Jessica, and I love how it turned out for her. The interfaith aspect was also really interesting, and all of the viewpoints made sense for each character.
This was super super charming. I was really rooting for Thomas to start healing, and it felt earned. I sympathized with Jessica, and I love how it turned out for her. The interfaith aspect was also really interesting, and all of the viewpoints made sense for each character.
November 17, 2024
What I liked: The third and best book in a series of Hallmark style holiday romances. This time the Jewish representation also addresses intermarriage with a modern perspective.
What I disliked: The story ends a bit abruptly. Now need a sequel to learn more about Jessica and Thomas’ relationship when they are back to reality, after the holidays.
What I disliked: The story ends a bit abruptly. Now need a sequel to learn more about Jessica and Thomas’ relationship when they are back to reality, after the holidays.
December 25, 2024
This was a fun Hanukkah themed romance, especially this year with Hanukkah and Christmas overlapping. The third book in this series, it was nice to hear what was going on with the main characters from the first two, though it wasn't necessary to have read them first. This is fully Jessica's story as she grapples with journalistic ethics and falling for someone who isn't Jewish.
November 8, 2024
I’d recommend this book if you like curling under a blanket with a cup of tea and enjoying a feel good read. Keep it on your shelf though because like your favorite holiday movies you’ll look forward to reading Deadlines, Donuts and Dreidels yearly.
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October 2, 2024Contemporary Romance
Miniseries
Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah (Book #3)
Miniseries
Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah (Book #3)
December 22, 2024
Jennifer Wilck does a good job balancing the character's different religions in this holiday story, alive with holiday details!
December 26, 2024
2.5 stars
Pacing felt a bit slow, but I understand that might've been necessary to delve into the MMC's backstory.
Pacing felt a bit slow, but I understand that might've been necessary to delve into the MMC's backstory.
January 10, 2025
Good book. Thomas and Jessica are such believable people!
October 22, 2024
This is a perfect holiday book. Jessica and Thomas grew up together as next door neighbors. Jessica had a crush on Thomas when she was growing up. She comes back to her hometown to celebrate Chanukah and to interview Thomas for a story. Jessica asks Thomas for an interview, but begins to become interested in the man that he has become. Thomas refuses to allow Jessica to interview him. Jessica and Thomas' romance is further complicated because of their different religions. In the end, Jessica and Thomas share their holiday traditions with each other and their families.
October 22, 2024
Wonderful story, the mystery and lure of a childhood crush can come true. How if everyone respects others things work out
October 26, 2024
Jennifer Wilck writes Harlequin holiday romances with different spin ; in this case, a dreidel spin. These Special edition novels are very special because they feature Jewish characters and each book in the "Holidays, Heart and Chutzpah" series is set during a different Jewish holiday. In this novel, journalist, Jessica Sacks’ career is on the line if she doesn't deliver her next story. When she goes home for the holidays, she is supposed to write a story about a home town hero who happens to be her childhood crush. But the heroic fireman refuses to be interviewed. Being friendly doesn't get the interview, but it does blur the lines. Soon friendship turns to fireworks in more than one way. Wilck writes the miscommunication romance with finesse. The situation is a variation on a typical trope that romance readers love, but they don't feel like formula fiction. The secondary complication in the romance involves her parent's worry over the fact that they are different religions. Intermarriage is common these days, and it is refreshing to see this plot in a romance story. I discovered the author last March when I read her Passover Romance, "Matzah Ball Blues", a fun second chance romance in the same series. I recently read the first book of the series, "Home for the Challah Days". The main female characters of the books in this series are all friends, and show up in each of the books. However, the stories are basically stand alone. Every modern romance fan knows how how the book will end, it is the path leading to that ending that provides all the fun in the story. Because of that fact, the books can easily be read out of order with out worry over any major spoilers. Romance readers want to know if a story is sweet or spicy. This one may not be as sweet as chocolate gelt, but the love scenes aren't four alarm fires. If you love romance novels and crave some Jewish food for thought, this book has a latka to love.
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