What do you think?
Rate this book
'Tis the Damn Season
This year, their families can deck the bloody halls themselves...
Old friends Shelley, Lena and Pearl have reached their limit with the festive preparation that has always fallen to them, and five days before Christmas, they’ve booked a mini break… without their families. Up until Christmas Eve, they’ll be sipping prosecco in the Highlands while their kids wrap bacon around 100 chipolatas and their partners brave the supermarkets.
It’s exactly what they need… until they’re snowed in. Facing the prospect of Christmas 500 miles from home, each woman is forced to confront her real reasons for needing to escape: the fiancé with the obnoxious family; the son’s new girlfriend who is taking over their home; the family who take their mother for granted all year round…
Will the friends make it home before Christmas day? And if they do, can they really go back to their old lives?
Old friends Shelley, Lena and Pearl have reached their limit with the festive preparation that has always fallen to them, and five days before Christmas, they’ve booked a mini break… without their families. Up until Christmas Eve, they’ll be sipping prosecco in the Highlands while their kids wrap bacon around 100 chipolatas and their partners brave the supermarkets.
It’s exactly what they need… until they’re snowed in. Facing the prospect of Christmas 500 miles from home, each woman is forced to confront her real reasons for needing to escape: the fiancé with the obnoxious family; the son’s new girlfriend who is taking over their home; the family who take their mother for granted all year round…
Will the friends make it home before Christmas day? And if they do, can they really go back to their old lives?
298 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 11, 2024
1360 people are currently reading
4746 people want to read
About the author
Fiona Gibson
50 books509 followersFiona is an author and journalist who has written for many UK publications including The Observer, The Guardian, Marie Claire, Red, New Woman, Top Sante and Elle. She writes a monthly column for Sainsbury’s magazine and is a Contributing Editor at Red magazine.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
Fiona lives in Scotland with her husband, their twin sons and daughter. She likes to draw, run 10k races, play her saxophone and lie in the bath with a big glass of wine, although not all at once.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 372 reviews
August 26, 2024
: ̗̀➛ 3.75 stars
This delightful story follows three friends who escape to Scotland for a much-needed pre-Christmas getaway, only to find themselves snowed in at a remote B&B. Each friend seeks a break from being taken for granted by their families, and when the weather forces them to stay longer, they end up managing the B&B and its guests during Christmas. Despite the unexpected turn of events, everything works out in the end, with new relationships blossoming and others naturally ending. I loved the characters and the cozy, heartwarming storyline—perfect for a holiday read!
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This review contains my honest opinion about the book.
This delightful story follows three friends who escape to Scotland for a much-needed pre-Christmas getaway, only to find themselves snowed in at a remote B&B. Each friend seeks a break from being taken for granted by their families, and when the weather forces them to stay longer, they end up managing the B&B and its guests during Christmas. Despite the unexpected turn of events, everything works out in the end, with new relationships blossoming and others naturally ending. I loved the characters and the cozy, heartwarming storyline—perfect for a holiday read!
Thank you NetGalley and Boldwood Books for this ARC. This review contains my honest opinion about the book.
December 17, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I don’t read many Christmas books, but I loved the title and cover so I chose it for our book club. I ended up listening to the audio version and I’m happy I did. I enjoyed the British accents and the witty banter. There were some chuckle worthy moments, some heartwarming moments and a nice karma moment!
I really liked the characters being in my age group. They were super relatable and likable (except one or two). I don’t often get to read books where all (or most) of the characters are around my age!
This was a sassy and fun read for the Christmas season!
I don’t read many Christmas books, but I loved the title and cover so I chose it for our book club. I ended up listening to the audio version and I’m happy I did. I enjoyed the British accents and the witty banter. There were some chuckle worthy moments, some heartwarming moments and a nice karma moment!
I really liked the characters being in my age group. They were super relatable and likable (except one or two). I don’t often get to read books where all (or most) of the characters are around my age!
This was a sassy and fun read for the Christmas season!
December 23, 2024
If you like chick lit/women’s fiction, then Fiona Gibson is a fantastic author to read! This one, while not a romance, was inspiring and so much fun to read. Books about women who begin to realize their worth are always empowering and this one does just that. Told in 4 POV’s, you’ll meet Lena, Shelly, Pearl, and get a few chapters from Joel’s POV (we don’t like Joel at all!). Shelly (who is married to Joel) starts to question whether her family appreciates her, Lena is on the brink of losing it because she has to deal with her fiancés rude family, and Pearl who is too nice to say no is dealing with her 26 year old man child son (and his girlfriend) who have taken over her house. I won’t spoil Joel’s chapters but be advised that there is infidelity on his part, and we get to see it right in front of us. Anyways, all three of these women are dealing with a lot right before the holidays and decide to take a much-needed break in Scotland for a few days with the plans of coming back on Christmas Eve. But plans change when a snowstorm hits and these women have to confront why they came in the first place.
Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read. It was a little festive but nothing over the top and has some great characters who were hard to say goodbye to. The ending is also wrapped up nicely and it was great to see everyone get the ending they deserved.
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Overall, this was a quick and enjoyable read. It was a little festive but nothing over the top and has some great characters who were hard to say goodbye to. The ending is also wrapped up nicely and it was great to see everyone get the ending they deserved.
𝗠𝗬 𝗥𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
December 15, 2024
This book is a delightful and festive read. I thoroughly enjoy stories about women my age finally realizing their worth and understanding that their value is not contingent on being in a relationship with a man.
August 18, 2024
Shelley and her friends decide to go on a quick holiday before Christmas. There is just not enough hours in a day to get everything done. An enjoyable read.
August 18, 2024
An absolutely fantastic festive read from Fiona, I have always loved all her books and this one is no exception!
A totally realistic and extremely relatable read for so many middle aged women juggling homes, work, children, husbands, menopause and then you add in the annual festive organisation, present shopping and wrapping, food shopping, cooking, relatives, tree buying and decorating and you wonder why we are stressed, harassed and totally not full of Christmas cheer!
Well this year it’s different for three friends who book a last minute break to Scotland just before Christmas, leaving their loved ones to continue the never ending Christmas preparations!
What ensues is totally different to what was anticipated being left to run a B and B, getting snowed in and entertaining paying guests, but during this time they bond, reflect on their lives and make life changing decisions buoyed by the wonderful friendship group they have!
A really enjoyable feel good read filled with plenty of laughter, perfect for getting into the festive spirit!
Would highly recommend
Thank you NetGalley for this early read
A totally realistic and extremely relatable read for so many middle aged women juggling homes, work, children, husbands, menopause and then you add in the annual festive organisation, present shopping and wrapping, food shopping, cooking, relatives, tree buying and decorating and you wonder why we are stressed, harassed and totally not full of Christmas cheer!
Well this year it’s different for three friends who book a last minute break to Scotland just before Christmas, leaving their loved ones to continue the never ending Christmas preparations!
What ensues is totally different to what was anticipated being left to run a B and B, getting snowed in and entertaining paying guests, but during this time they bond, reflect on their lives and make life changing decisions buoyed by the wonderful friendship group they have!
A really enjoyable feel good read filled with plenty of laughter, perfect for getting into the festive spirit!
Would highly recommend
Thank you NetGalley for this early read
December 2, 2024
A bit twee, a bit obvious in terms of plot but overall this was a fun time. I hated Joel with a passion, and the kids in this are some of the most annoying children I've ever had the mispleasure of reading about. The characters and their relationships to each other are the highlight, as they all pull together to create a great sense of found family all while snowed in up in the Highlands. It felt very Christmassy if not particularly rememerable.
December 11, 2024
This started off so well and then it fizzled. I disliked the characters immensely and found the story to be very predictable. Leaving your family to go to Scotland just before Christmas just was bizarre and selfish. Not one of Fiona's best. My thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
September 25, 2024
I completely, totally feel these women in my bones! The three main characters are all middle-aged women who are absolutely fed up with being the one that does everything in their families and relationships especially during the holidays while never being seen for who they are. I and many other women out there can/will totally relate to this feeling of drowning in responsibility. We want everything to be perfect for those we love, but who makes it perfect for us? The story is hilariously written while dealing with deep emotionally charged issues. The author also gives us snippets of perspective from some of the men in the story which only increases your need to smack some of them! You will run the gambit of emotions while reading this book. I also have to say that the book is also inspirational in that it would be wonderful to find a group of friends to support you the way these women support each other. This isn't the typical feel-good Christmas story, but it will make you feel good in different ways. I highly recommend that everyone grab a copy and settle in with a good drink to read the day away! My question when you are done reading will be, will you be making any changes to your holiday traditions or will you keep killing yourself to slog through to make everyone else happy?
September 15, 2024
Tis the Damn Season by Fiona Gibson was so damn good! This is definitely a holiday read to add to your wishlist!
Shelly, Lena, and Pearl are three women who met years ago when they worked together. Through the years their friendship has blossomed and grown and they always look forward to time together.
However, with the holidays quickly approaching, each is feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and often unappreciated at home. Taking a step back, each believes it would be wonderful to escape….before the holidays! Family and friends are shocked to hear they don’t plan to return until Christmas Eve.
As the three make their way to a B&B in the Scottish Highlands, they have no idea how much their lives will change upon their return.
This was a great four star read and one I would certainly recommend! I can’t wait to check out other books from the author!
Shelly, Lena, and Pearl are three women who met years ago when they worked together. Through the years their friendship has blossomed and grown and they always look forward to time together.
However, with the holidays quickly approaching, each is feeling frustrated, overwhelmed, and often unappreciated at home. Taking a step back, each believes it would be wonderful to escape….before the holidays! Family and friends are shocked to hear they don’t plan to return until Christmas Eve.
As the three make their way to a B&B in the Scottish Highlands, they have no idea how much their lives will change upon their return.
This was a great four star read and one I would certainly recommend! I can’t wait to check out other books from the author!
December 17, 2024
Okay this actually was super cute and didn't make me roll my eyes. A little cheesy and slightly predictable but fast paced and light
December 18, 2024
1.5 - basic characters making London sound dull which is quite an achievement - even when there was drama it fell flat to me cause I didn't care about the characters...another Christmas book that is dry....
October 19, 2024
Shelly, Lena and Pearl are friends who are fed up being taken for granted and as the festive season draws near they decide to take a break. Scotland is their destination but will their families cope without them.
Christmas is a stressful time and this book was relatable and funny with some drama to keep the story moving along at a fast pace.
Christmas is a stressful time and this book was relatable and funny with some drama to keep the story moving along at a fast pace.
September 13, 2024
Fiona Gibson - Tis The (damn) Season.
Christmas is fast approaching and three best friends, Shelly, Lena and Pearl are all feeling the stress of the season. All three are being taken for granted in one way or another.
In a bid to escape their respective situations, they make a snap decision to escape the madness and head to Pearl’s cousin’s B&B in the wilds of Scotland.
We all know how unpredictable the Scottish weather can be, so it could possibly stop anyone making it home for Christmas.
If and when they make it home, what will they each be returning to? And how will their trip away change them all?
I love a book that puts more mature characters at the heart of its story. I liked Shelly, Lena and Pearl a lot. They are all women who have lived and experienced life, but now find themselves in all too relatable situations.
Their friendship is well written and believable.
Scotland is an idyllic setting and Fiona Gibson draws some gorgeous mental pictures for us readers to enjoy.
#TisThe(damn)Season is a perfect festive escape. It’s funny, warm hearted and kept me turning those pages to the very end, despite the fact that I didn't want to leave these characters behind.
If you enjoy a book that you can totally lose yourself in. A book that will warm your heart and leave you with all the feels, you will love #TisThe(damn)Season
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Christmas is fast approaching and three best friends, Shelly, Lena and Pearl are all feeling the stress of the season. All three are being taken for granted in one way or another.
In a bid to escape their respective situations, they make a snap decision to escape the madness and head to Pearl’s cousin’s B&B in the wilds of Scotland.
We all know how unpredictable the Scottish weather can be, so it could possibly stop anyone making it home for Christmas.
If and when they make it home, what will they each be returning to? And how will their trip away change them all?
I love a book that puts more mature characters at the heart of its story. I liked Shelly, Lena and Pearl a lot. They are all women who have lived and experienced life, but now find themselves in all too relatable situations.
Their friendship is well written and believable.
Scotland is an idyllic setting and Fiona Gibson draws some gorgeous mental pictures for us readers to enjoy.
#TisThe(damn)Season is a perfect festive escape. It’s funny, warm hearted and kept me turning those pages to the very end, despite the fact that I didn't want to leave these characters behind.
If you enjoy a book that you can totally lose yourself in. A book that will warm your heart and leave you with all the feels, you will love #TisThe(damn)Season
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
September 11, 2024
A solid 3.75 stars for me! This festive read follows 3 long-time friends who need to get away. There comes a time where a woman deserves to dig her feet down and say, “I’m a woman and a person before I’m a wife or a mom.” And then deserves to make her own happiness.
Their trip to the cottage B&B was perfect, even though they ended up taking over temporarily instead of relaxing, but in the end you could tell they loved it. They were doing this together with the people that ‘see’ them.
Joel and Theo took their special little places on my special, fictional naughty list but Joel actually took the cake. Poor Shelley, married to the narcissistic troll that was Joel, happily ended up in a better place in life thanks to Joel’s indiscretions. I’m just glad Joel received his karma. A fun read about messy lives. Life is messy.
Highly recommend. A good, clean cozy read that I loved snuggling under the covers with.
Thank you, NetGalley! This is my honest opinion! Grab it when it comes out
Their trip to the cottage B&B was perfect, even though they ended up taking over temporarily instead of relaxing, but in the end you could tell they loved it. They were doing this together with the people that ‘see’ them.
Joel and Theo took their special little places on my special, fictional naughty list but Joel actually took the cake. Poor Shelley, married to the narcissistic troll that was Joel, happily ended up in a better place in life thanks to Joel’s indiscretions. I’m just glad Joel received his karma. A fun read about messy lives. Life is messy.
Highly recommend. A good, clean cozy read that I loved snuggling under the covers with.
Thank you, NetGalley! This is my honest opinion! Grab it when it comes out
September 4, 2024
3 friends
Shelley, Pearl and Lena
All for various reasons want out this Christmas as it’s turning as always into more hassle than enjoyment
But there is no escape, nowhere for them to run to
Until there is
And once they are there their other halves and families have to get on and make do ( and make don’t )
Very funny, very Christmassy and a very good read, one of those you can read for 15 mins and come back to and immediately know where you are and are straight back into it
Loved all character’s good and not so, even Joel I couldn’t fully dislike at the end, toothpaste and all
A perfect read waiting to be had that will make every reader feel good, relaxed and happy to have chosen this book and all it brings 😊
Shelley, Pearl and Lena
All for various reasons want out this Christmas as it’s turning as always into more hassle than enjoyment
But there is no escape, nowhere for them to run to
Until there is
And once they are there their other halves and families have to get on and make do ( and make don’t )
Very funny, very Christmassy and a very good read, one of those you can read for 15 mins and come back to and immediately know where you are and are straight back into it
Loved all character’s good and not so, even Joel I couldn’t fully dislike at the end, toothpaste and all
A perfect read waiting to be had that will make every reader feel good, relaxed and happy to have chosen this book and all it brings 😊
December 10, 2024
Lena, Pearl and Shelley have had enough. It’s time to escape the frantic festive season and what better way than to take a spontaneous trip to the Scottish Highlands to get away from it all? After all, surely family can cope for just a few days before the lead up to Christmas?!
Yet, their absence just proves how much of a lynchpin they are at home. Pearl was enjoying leaving her small flat behind, especially as it feels as if it is being dominated by her son’s girlfriend. I was surprised that Gibson didn’t really focus on this element of the plot as I was really keen to see how Brandon and Abi would react now that Pearl has left. Lena was equally looking forward to the sudden holiday because it gives her a chance to escape her over-bearing in-laws, particularly as she has to suddenly host Christmas Day! Yet, when she sees that her partner is spending time with his ex-wife again, Lena can’t help but think she has made a mistake – either with coming away or with her pending marriage to Tommy. Finally, I totally agreed that Shelley needed to leave her husband to his own devices: Joel is a man-child who does little to help around the house, justifying his salary as giving him a free pass to do anything he likes. I was glad to see him struggle.
However, the holiday away soon becomes a bus man’s holiday. The three women agree to run the B&B whilst the owner, Michael, heads to London. As you would expect, things don’t go entirely to plan with trying to keep up the level of service that Michael has promised, and when heavy snow falls just before their departure date, plans are skewered even further.
I normally really enjoy Gibson reads and find them laugh-out-loud entertaining. However, while the first third was like that, I thought the story began to fall flat and was a bit predictable. It didn’t feel particularly fresh and energetic like previous Gibson books.
Furthermore, I didn’t get the sense of escapism that I look for in a festive read. I felt angry on behalf of the ladies for how much they are being taken advantage of – not really something you want to feel at Christmas time. In addition, the state of Shelley’s marriage was especially saddening and I wanted her to see how much she is taken advantage of by her husband. I don’t think her ending was the happy ever after I was hoping for. Finally, a couple of the guests at the B&B was particularly detestable and I wished Theo would have received some discipline – he really wound me up!
As far as Christmas reads go, this one wasn’t my most favourite this year. It didn’t give me the heart-warming feels that I was looking for, instead feeling frustrated for the characters and a bit empty by the predictable plot. In my opinion, there are definitely better Christmas reads out there and I think this was one of Gibson’s less enjoyable stories. It was a bit entertaining to start with, but I could have done with more sweetness and sugar canes.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Yet, their absence just proves how much of a lynchpin they are at home. Pearl was enjoying leaving her small flat behind, especially as it feels as if it is being dominated by her son’s girlfriend. I was surprised that Gibson didn’t really focus on this element of the plot as I was really keen to see how Brandon and Abi would react now that Pearl has left. Lena was equally looking forward to the sudden holiday because it gives her a chance to escape her over-bearing in-laws, particularly as she has to suddenly host Christmas Day! Yet, when she sees that her partner is spending time with his ex-wife again, Lena can’t help but think she has made a mistake – either with coming away or with her pending marriage to Tommy. Finally, I totally agreed that Shelley needed to leave her husband to his own devices: Joel is a man-child who does little to help around the house, justifying his salary as giving him a free pass to do anything he likes. I was glad to see him struggle.
However, the holiday away soon becomes a bus man’s holiday. The three women agree to run the B&B whilst the owner, Michael, heads to London. As you would expect, things don’t go entirely to plan with trying to keep up the level of service that Michael has promised, and when heavy snow falls just before their departure date, plans are skewered even further.
I normally really enjoy Gibson reads and find them laugh-out-loud entertaining. However, while the first third was like that, I thought the story began to fall flat and was a bit predictable. It didn’t feel particularly fresh and energetic like previous Gibson books.
Furthermore, I didn’t get the sense of escapism that I look for in a festive read. I felt angry on behalf of the ladies for how much they are being taken advantage of – not really something you want to feel at Christmas time. In addition, the state of Shelley’s marriage was especially saddening and I wanted her to see how much she is taken advantage of by her husband. I don’t think her ending was the happy ever after I was hoping for. Finally, a couple of the guests at the B&B was particularly detestable and I wished Theo would have received some discipline – he really wound me up!
As far as Christmas reads go, this one wasn’t my most favourite this year. It didn’t give me the heart-warming feels that I was looking for, instead feeling frustrated for the characters and a bit empty by the predictable plot. In my opinion, there are definitely better Christmas reads out there and I think this was one of Gibson’s less enjoyable stories. It was a bit entertaining to start with, but I could have done with more sweetness and sugar canes.
With thanks to Boldwood books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2025
Jag har läst ännu en julroman med ett härligt omslag. I ”En fröjdefull weekend” av Fiona Gibson får tre medelålderskvinnor nog av att vara dem som fixar alla julförberedelser och bestämmer sig för att lämna allt och bege sig till Skottland några dagar före jul. Det blir en jul som liknar något som varken de eller deras familjer någonsin har upplevt tidigare.
Det är en härlig roman som handlar om nya insikter, att uppskatta det man har och inte ta det som finns runt omkring en för givet, men också att man alltid kan välja nya vägar och släppa taget om vissa invanda mönster och traditioner.
Här finns skottska snörika landskap, vänskap, gemenskap och en humor som kombineras med högsta allvar.
En lite annorlunda, men väldigt fartfylld och tänkvärd julroman om julens traditioner och invanda mönster!
Det är en härlig roman som handlar om nya insikter, att uppskatta det man har och inte ta det som finns runt omkring en för givet, men också att man alltid kan välja nya vägar och släppa taget om vissa invanda mönster och traditioner.
Här finns skottska snörika landskap, vänskap, gemenskap och en humor som kombineras med högsta allvar.
En lite annorlunda, men väldigt fartfylld och tänkvärd julroman om julens traditioner och invanda mönster!
December 24, 2024
3.5 - Cute story about 3 women in their late 30’s-early 40’s who come to many realizations on a trip right before Christmas. I love a story about growth and change did the better - add in Christmas and you’ve hooked me. 🎄♥️🎅🏻
December 22, 2025
Don’t know what it is about British narrators who don’t have an accent like mine, but I have to say I always struggle with characters in this language. This is a book you really need to read and not listen to.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 14, 2024
Probably more like a 3.5, but out of all the holiday fluff I've been reading this was one of the better ones.
Love a good story about 3 best friends who are all in different life situations or chose different paths on an adventure
Love a good story about 3 best friends who are all in different life situations or chose different paths on an adventure
December 4, 2025
Cute and cosy but i was frustrated at times lol
I wish there was a biiiit more in the end for all of them as it felt a bit rushed but still
I wish there was a biiiit more in the end for all of them as it felt a bit rushed but still
December 20, 2024
Easy, happy read about escaping christmas with your friends. I enjoyed it more than I expected
September 14, 2024
The Blurb :
Old friends Shelley, Lena and Pearl have reached their limit with the festive preparation that has always fallen to them, and five days before Christmas, they’ve booked a mini break… without their families. Up until Christmas Eve, they’ll be sipping prosecco in the Highlands while their kids wrap bacon around 100 chipolatas and their partners brave the supermarkets.
It’s exactly what they need… until they’re snowed in. Facing the prospect of Christmas 500 miles from home, each woman is forced to confront her real reasons for needing to escape: the fiancé with the obnoxious family; the son’s new girlfriend who is taking over their home; the family who take their mother for granted all year round…
Will the friends make it home before Christmas day? And if they do, can they really go back to their old lives?
My Thoughts :
We meet friends Shelley, Pearl and Lena. Having had enough of their families and the up coming festive preparations, they all decide on a last minute break to Scotland at Shelley’s cousins bed & breakfast for a few days before Christmas begins.
What better way than to relax hundreds of miles away from home and let their families tend to the organising of Christmas this year.
As we begin to learn the back story of the 3 friends, theres no wonder they wanted a break.
Shelley’s husband and children are always taking her for granted.
Pearl who is a widow, has had enough of her son’s girlfriend taking over in her own home and Lena’s in laws announce they are coming to stay despite questioning and criticizing her over everything she does.
After settling in to the B&B the weather takes a turn for the worse and this forces them to stay on longer than planned. With guests arriving they end up managing the B&B and entertaining the guests even some awkward ones.
As the friends embrace their time away and revaluate their lives, what happen when they finally return home and will their families be waiting for them!?.
Fiona Gibson is one of my go to Authors and this book didnt disappoint, I love how Fiona takes her characters under her wing and makes them into people we care about. A very heart warming funny festive read and one I didnt want to end as I could just see these friends on many more adventures.
Looking forward to more from Fiona Gibson in the future.
Old friends Shelley, Lena and Pearl have reached their limit with the festive preparation that has always fallen to them, and five days before Christmas, they’ve booked a mini break… without their families. Up until Christmas Eve, they’ll be sipping prosecco in the Highlands while their kids wrap bacon around 100 chipolatas and their partners brave the supermarkets.
It’s exactly what they need… until they’re snowed in. Facing the prospect of Christmas 500 miles from home, each woman is forced to confront her real reasons for needing to escape: the fiancé with the obnoxious family; the son’s new girlfriend who is taking over their home; the family who take their mother for granted all year round…
Will the friends make it home before Christmas day? And if they do, can they really go back to their old lives?
My Thoughts :
We meet friends Shelley, Pearl and Lena. Having had enough of their families and the up coming festive preparations, they all decide on a last minute break to Scotland at Shelley’s cousins bed & breakfast for a few days before Christmas begins.
What better way than to relax hundreds of miles away from home and let their families tend to the organising of Christmas this year.
As we begin to learn the back story of the 3 friends, theres no wonder they wanted a break.
Shelley’s husband and children are always taking her for granted.
Pearl who is a widow, has had enough of her son’s girlfriend taking over in her own home and Lena’s in laws announce they are coming to stay despite questioning and criticizing her over everything she does.
After settling in to the B&B the weather takes a turn for the worse and this forces them to stay on longer than planned. With guests arriving they end up managing the B&B and entertaining the guests even some awkward ones.
As the friends embrace their time away and revaluate their lives, what happen when they finally return home and will their families be waiting for them!?.
Fiona Gibson is one of my go to Authors and this book didnt disappoint, I love how Fiona takes her characters under her wing and makes them into people we care about. A very heart warming funny festive read and one I didnt want to end as I could just see these friends on many more adventures.
Looking forward to more from Fiona Gibson in the future.
December 24, 2024
Shelly, Lena, and Pearl take a last minute getaway to the Scottish Highlands a few days before Christmas. When they get snowed in how will their families face Christmas without them? What changes will these woman face once they return to their lives in London?
Shelly: Married to self-centered Joel and has two teenagers Finn and Marta.
Lena: Engaged to Tommy who is divorced from the perfect Catherine and has a daughter teenage daughter, Daisy. Tommy's parents are difficult and unkind to Lena.
Pearl: Husband Deen died of cancer ten years ago, has an adult son Brandon whose girlfriend Abbie is taking over Pearl's flat. Pearl is dating Elias.
Michael: Pearl's cousin who invites her to stay at his B & B in the Scottish Highlands.
This was a fun holiday story with a beautiful setting of the Scottish Highlands.
Below the line are the notes for me to remember this book.
------------------------------------------------
1. Joel is carrying on an affair with Carmel and daughter Marta finds the gold bracelet he is giving to Carmel as a Christmas gift. Marta and Finn hold a party which destroys the house, Christmas tree, presents, etc. The kids blackmail their father since they know about the affair and spot a hickey on Joel's neck. Joel ends up handling Christmas alone for his kids and parents. He sends a text to Shelly thinking it was Carmel. Shelly finds out about the affair and once she returns to London she asks Joel to move out.
2. Lena and Tommy end up married at the end in a small ceremony instead of the lavish ceremony Tommy's mother wants him to have.
3. Pearl breaks up with Elias after he plans a hedonism weekend at a spa. She meets Niels at the B & B and they end up together. Pearl's son Brandon breaks things off with Abbie.
4. Michael goes to London to leave the three women to take care of the B & B so he can meet Chrissy. The long distance relationship fizzles and they break up.
5. The three woman (Shelly, Pearl, and Lena) have a great time running the B & B for Michael.
Shelly: Married to self-centered Joel and has two teenagers Finn and Marta.
Lena: Engaged to Tommy who is divorced from the perfect Catherine and has a daughter teenage daughter, Daisy. Tommy's parents are difficult and unkind to Lena.
Pearl: Husband Deen died of cancer ten years ago, has an adult son Brandon whose girlfriend Abbie is taking over Pearl's flat. Pearl is dating Elias.
Michael: Pearl's cousin who invites her to stay at his B & B in the Scottish Highlands.
This was a fun holiday story with a beautiful setting of the Scottish Highlands.
Below the line are the notes for me to remember this book.
------------------------------------------------
1. Joel is carrying on an affair with Carmel and daughter Marta finds the gold bracelet he is giving to Carmel as a Christmas gift. Marta and Finn hold a party which destroys the house, Christmas tree, presents, etc. The kids blackmail their father since they know about the affair and spot a hickey on Joel's neck. Joel ends up handling Christmas alone for his kids and parents. He sends a text to Shelly thinking it was Carmel. Shelly finds out about the affair and once she returns to London she asks Joel to move out.
2. Lena and Tommy end up married at the end in a small ceremony instead of the lavish ceremony Tommy's mother wants him to have.
3. Pearl breaks up with Elias after he plans a hedonism weekend at a spa. She meets Niels at the B & B and they end up together. Pearl's son Brandon breaks things off with Abbie.
4. Michael goes to London to leave the three women to take care of the B & B so he can meet Chrissy. The long distance relationship fizzles and they break up.
5. The three woman (Shelly, Pearl, and Lena) have a great time running the B & B for Michael.
September 2, 2024
This is a new to me author but I immediately looked up her entire backlist and added it to my tbr when I was finished this book. I am a tough critic, anyone who knows me knows that, and this is one of the few books that actually cracked the code. It is funny, heartfelt, cozy, and just an overall perfect holiday read.
Three friends decide to escape to Scotland for a couple of days right before Chris after their respective families let them down and don't appreciate all the hard work that they do for them all year, and especially in the time leading up to Christmas. They decide they need a break, so they escape to a friends inn and are having a lovely time until they get snowed in. On top of that, the inn's owner, who happens to be their friend as well. has jetted off to meet his online love leaving them in charge of the inn when the storm hits. They are left to tackle managing the B&B and dealing with the prospect of not being with their loved ones for Christmas. What ensues is the women having time to bond, reflect on their lives care for each other and their friendships for a change.
If you're looking for a chance to escape for a few hours don't hesitate to pick this one up asap!
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
Three friends decide to escape to Scotland for a couple of days right before Chris after their respective families let them down and don't appreciate all the hard work that they do for them all year, and especially in the time leading up to Christmas. They decide they need a break, so they escape to a friends inn and are having a lovely time until they get snowed in. On top of that, the inn's owner, who happens to be their friend as well. has jetted off to meet his online love leaving them in charge of the inn when the storm hits. They are left to tackle managing the B&B and dealing with the prospect of not being with their loved ones for Christmas. What ensues is the women having time to bond, reflect on their lives care for each other and their friendships for a change.
If you're looking for a chance to escape for a few hours don't hesitate to pick this one up asap!
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
September 11, 2024
My first Christmas-sy book of the season, read during the awfully hot days this September.
Didn't put me in festive mood, as there was not much of Christmas in there, but actually it was not neccessary for it to be overwhelmingly festive, as it was more about finding yourself anew, regardless of the season.
It was a very accurate story that introduced us to many characters, I actually had a feeling that there was a new character on every page. For me personally there was not enough conflict/plot to make it a book - hence, perhaps, so many characters, because there was not enough to fill the pages and with every character added there was a bit of a background to write around. It was simply a book telling stories, it was not centered around something that they had in common, there was not much that linked them.
However, it was nicely written and everything was wrapped up in the end, like a beautifully packed Christmas present. Easy to read story about friendship, relationship and second chances, though too superficial. It's not bad, it's a few easy hourse you're going to spend when reading it, but for me, it somehow missed the mark.
Didn't put me in festive mood, as there was not much of Christmas in there, but actually it was not neccessary for it to be overwhelmingly festive, as it was more about finding yourself anew, regardless of the season.
It was a very accurate story that introduced us to many characters, I actually had a feeling that there was a new character on every page. For me personally there was not enough conflict/plot to make it a book - hence, perhaps, so many characters, because there was not enough to fill the pages and with every character added there was a bit of a background to write around. It was simply a book telling stories, it was not centered around something that they had in common, there was not much that linked them.
However, it was nicely written and everything was wrapped up in the end, like a beautifully packed Christmas present. Easy to read story about friendship, relationship and second chances, though too superficial. It's not bad, it's a few easy hourse you're going to spend when reading it, but for me, it somehow missed the mark.
November 26, 2024
Ugh, I just LOVE Fiona Gibson's books. I've listened and read quite a few of Fiona's books and I just think they're brilliant and so relatable to I'm sure many people. In this book we follow 3 women in their fifties who are very stressed with the big Christmas day approaching, decide to go on a getaway a few days before. Each woman have their own problems to deal with and why they were dreading Christmas!
I loved Pearl, Shelley and Leena's friendship. No matter what they seemed to face in this book they all rallied around eachother and managed to come to some sort of solution! I really did have a good laugh at some parts of this book and also felt alot of sympathy for the ladies in this book too. I'm sure alot of people will relate to not only the lead up to Christmas and all the preparation that comes with it but having to deal with these type of difficulties all year round.
I liked how there seemed to be glimmers of hope for all 3 ladies throughout the book and especially at the end for Shelley too.
I think this was a fantastic read and I just can't get over how realistic and relatable Fiona's books are and I'm sure it makes alot of us women around the world feel like we're not alone too.
I loved Pearl, Shelley and Leena's friendship. No matter what they seemed to face in this book they all rallied around eachother and managed to come to some sort of solution! I really did have a good laugh at some parts of this book and also felt alot of sympathy for the ladies in this book too. I'm sure alot of people will relate to not only the lead up to Christmas and all the preparation that comes with it but having to deal with these type of difficulties all year round.
I liked how there seemed to be glimmers of hope for all 3 ladies throughout the book and especially at the end for Shelley too.
I think this was a fantastic read and I just can't get over how realistic and relatable Fiona's books are and I'm sure it makes alot of us women around the world feel like we're not alone too.
November 23, 2024
Shelly, Lena and Pearl are best friends who are fed up being taken for granted and decide to book a last-minute break to Scotland during the week before Christmas, leaving their families to continue the preparation for Christmas.
What happens is totally different to what they anticipated as they get snowed in, are left to run a B&B and have to entertain the other guests (including an obnoxious family). During their time away, they reflect on their lives and make life changing decisions aided by the wonderful friendship group they have!
An enjoyable feel good read with likeable, relatable characters and plenty of laughter. Perfect for starting to get into Christmas mode!
What happens is totally different to what they anticipated as they get snowed in, are left to run a B&B and have to entertain the other guests (including an obnoxious family). During their time away, they reflect on their lives and make life changing decisions aided by the wonderful friendship group they have!
An enjoyable feel good read with likeable, relatable characters and plenty of laughter. Perfect for starting to get into Christmas mode!
December 12, 2025
I got this book from a blind book box at a local bookshop, and waited til Christmas time to read it. I’ve never heard of this book, nor the author, but it was such a cute read!
Three friends decide to take a trip away from their crazy lives to decompress before Christmas in the Scottish Highlands. When they get snowed in their cozy b&b, their families learn they have to manage the holiday without them, and each woman comes to her own realizations on how they want to live their lives.
The storyline was multiple POVs, and it was funny and deep and frustrating in the best way. Great holiday read!
Three friends decide to take a trip away from their crazy lives to decompress before Christmas in the Scottish Highlands. When they get snowed in their cozy b&b, their families learn they have to manage the holiday without them, and each woman comes to her own realizations on how they want to live their lives.
The storyline was multiple POVs, and it was funny and deep and frustrating in the best way. Great holiday read!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 372 reviews