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Christmas Actually
Time spent with family can be challenging, especially at Christmas actually . . .
Kate Cavendish is stuck in a rut. That is until a former colleague contacts her and offers her a chance to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a successful photographer. But with her focus pulled in all directions by her children, her pregnant sister, her newly dating mother, and the niggling worry that her husband might be having an affair, Kate is filled with self-doubt.
Then, as the countdown to Christmas begins, and memories of her own childhood resurface, Kate's anxiety deepens—both personally and professionally. Can she move on from past events and rebuild her future? And can the power of social media finally stop hindering her family, and help her create something successful?
Christmas Actually is a festive drama about family and forgiveness, and a snapshot of modern family life—addressing subjects from social media to motherhood and everything in between.
Kate Cavendish is stuck in a rut. That is until a former colleague contacts her and offers her a chance to fulfill her lifelong dream of becoming a successful photographer. But with her focus pulled in all directions by her children, her pregnant sister, her newly dating mother, and the niggling worry that her husband might be having an affair, Kate is filled with self-doubt.
Then, as the countdown to Christmas begins, and memories of her own childhood resurface, Kate's anxiety deepens—both personally and professionally. Can she move on from past events and rebuild her future? And can the power of social media finally stop hindering her family, and help her create something successful?
Christmas Actually is a festive drama about family and forgiveness, and a snapshot of modern family life—addressing subjects from social media to motherhood and everything in between.
- GenresChristmas
346 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 2, 2024
140 people are currently reading
118 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
September 29, 2024
I received a free copy of, Christmas Actually, by Lisa Darcy. from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Anxiety can make people stay stuck in a rut, change is hard with anxiety as Kate knows all to well. Kate gets a chance at her dream job, a photographer, but will her anxiety hold her back from achieving her dream. I did not care for this book though, cheating is not o, and anxiety, or being lonely is not an excuse.
November 16, 2024
TITLE: Christmas Actually
AUTHOR: Lisa Darcy
PUB DATE: 9.18.2024
Time spent with family can be challenging, especially at Christmas actually…
Kate Cavendish is stuck in a rut. That is until a former colleague contacts her and offers her a chance to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a successful photographer.
With her focus pulled in all directions by her children, her pregnant sister, her newly-dating mother, and the niggling worry that her husband might be having an affair, Kate is filled with self-doubt.
Then as the countdown to Christmas begins, and memories of her own childhood resurface, Kate’s anxiety deepens – both personally and professionally. Can she move on from past events and rebuild her future? And can the power of social media finally stop hindering her family, and help her create something successful?
THOUGHTS:
I just love a heartfelt story in a festive setting that gives me that warm fuzzy feeling that everything will turn out alright no matter the circumstance. Christmas Actually follows Kate as she spirals through her anxiety, in the midst of family drama, and the realities of juggling motherhood, being a loving wife, and all
the other hats, and still finding yourself in all this.
I really enjoyed the engaging writing, as well as, realistic characters that found their way into my heart. This was the perfect read for me to get me into the holiday spirit.
AUTHOR: Lisa Darcy
PUB DATE: 9.18.2024
Time spent with family can be challenging, especially at Christmas actually…
Kate Cavendish is stuck in a rut. That is until a former colleague contacts her and offers her a chance to fulfil her lifelong dream of becoming a successful photographer.
With her focus pulled in all directions by her children, her pregnant sister, her newly-dating mother, and the niggling worry that her husband might be having an affair, Kate is filled with self-doubt.
Then as the countdown to Christmas begins, and memories of her own childhood resurface, Kate’s anxiety deepens – both personally and professionally. Can she move on from past events and rebuild her future? And can the power of social media finally stop hindering her family, and help her create something successful?
THOUGHTS:
I just love a heartfelt story in a festive setting that gives me that warm fuzzy feeling that everything will turn out alright no matter the circumstance. Christmas Actually follows Kate as she spirals through her anxiety, in the midst of family drama, and the realities of juggling motherhood, being a loving wife, and all
the other hats, and still finding yourself in all this.
I really enjoyed the engaging writing, as well as, realistic characters that found their way into my heart. This was the perfect read for me to get me into the holiday spirit.
September 24, 2024
Fast paced and witty and for us working mums, a little too close to reality! A really fun read with a small dose of Christmas
September 8, 2024
I love a good Christmas setting! And a story of family, self-actualization, love, and wondering whether you’re actually getting ANYTHING right? Sign me up. Fast-paced and quippy—you root for Kate throughout!
I received a free ARC in exchange for my review—it was my first time!—and really appreciate the opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit in September!
I received a free ARC in exchange for my review—it was my first time!—and really appreciate the opportunity to get into the Christmas spirit in September!
September 7, 2024
I've always enjoyed this author's books, and with Christmas Actually, Lisa Darcy (aka Lisa Heidke) has penned her best yet, delivering us a fast-paced, funny, thought-provoking page turner that is sure to be gift-wrapped under many Christmas trees this festive season. A perfect stocking filler or Secret Santa gift too, and a great holiday read.
Who would have thought that a novel about family life could be so entertaining?
Yet Darcy's tight, witty, no-holds-barred insightful storytelling goes to the heart of sensitive issues: Am I a good mother? Is my marriage as strong as I thought it was? How can I pursue my creative passion and still be there for my family? What's happened to my self-esteem? And how do I rebuild it?
We deep-dive into the complex dynamics of family life and workplace dramas, fully engaged because every character and every situation is so real, such is the author's skill.
Protagonist Kate Cavendish isn't perfect - no one is. And this theme weaves through the story, showing us how love, understanding, honest communication, acceptance and forgiveness are essential ingredients in the glue that binds families together.
I laughed, I shed a few tears and I empathized. Loved this book!
My thanks to the author and to Bloodhound Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Who would have thought that a novel about family life could be so entertaining?
Yet Darcy's tight, witty, no-holds-barred insightful storytelling goes to the heart of sensitive issues: Am I a good mother? Is my marriage as strong as I thought it was? How can I pursue my creative passion and still be there for my family? What's happened to my self-esteem? And how do I rebuild it?
We deep-dive into the complex dynamics of family life and workplace dramas, fully engaged because every character and every situation is so real, such is the author's skill.
Protagonist Kate Cavendish isn't perfect - no one is. And this theme weaves through the story, showing us how love, understanding, honest communication, acceptance and forgiveness are essential ingredients in the glue that binds families together.
I laughed, I shed a few tears and I empathized. Loved this book!
My thanks to the author and to Bloodhound Books for my ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 30, 2024
This is my first time coming across this author.
First of all, although I enjoyed this book it wasn't your typical Christmas read that I expected it to be based on the blurb and the cover.
It was set in Australia, and obviously their Christmas takes place In their summer so was very different to not take place in the usual snowy atmosphere.
It wasn't your usual romantic, predictable Christmas read - it was almost about a journey of self discovery for a normal, hard working parent trying to juggle everything.
The start and the middle of this book really flowed for me, and I got through it quite quickly, but in my opinion the ending did drag out with not much happening and seemed to take me forever to read it.
Hasn't put me off though, and will be looking out for the authors previous reads.
First of all, although I enjoyed this book it wasn't your typical Christmas read that I expected it to be based on the blurb and the cover.
It was set in Australia, and obviously their Christmas takes place In their summer so was very different to not take place in the usual snowy atmosphere.
It wasn't your usual romantic, predictable Christmas read - it was almost about a journey of self discovery for a normal, hard working parent trying to juggle everything.
The start and the middle of this book really flowed for me, and I got through it quite quickly, but in my opinion the ending did drag out with not much happening and seemed to take me forever to read it.
Hasn't put me off though, and will be looking out for the authors previous reads.
October 4, 2024
If you're looking for a festive Rom-Com based on the joyous cover you may be disappointed, instead this is a reflective journey looking at multiple lives and the very real struggles people face, whether you're a child, teen, single mum, parent or grandparent.
It delves into various aspects of relationships and family dynamics, and confronting issues such as bullying, affairs, online trolls, being a parent, pregnancy, reconnecting and having a mid life crisis.
It looks into doubts, insecurities and guilt, alongside forgiveness, motivation and determination.
The characters are real, vulnerable and relatable, and it's the kind of book where either yourself or someone you know will have experienced at least some of the drama that unfolds here, whether that's unexpected family revelations, teenage child angst, doubts in marriage, work conflicts, or parenting concerns.
It delves into various aspects of relationships and family dynamics, and confronting issues such as bullying, affairs, online trolls, being a parent, pregnancy, reconnecting and having a mid life crisis.
It looks into doubts, insecurities and guilt, alongside forgiveness, motivation and determination.
The characters are real, vulnerable and relatable, and it's the kind of book where either yourself or someone you know will have experienced at least some of the drama that unfolds here, whether that's unexpected family revelations, teenage child angst, doubts in marriage, work conflicts, or parenting concerns.
October 6, 2024
Recommend
Christmas Actually by Lisa Darcy.
I love the cover of this book. It's why i signed up for the tour. I did enjoy it. I got into it straight away. This is not your typical romance book. It deals with everyday lives leading up to Christmas. I did like Kate, the main character. I felt her every frustration. Every emotion. This was fast-paced and witty. This was very cleverly written. I loved the writing style. I did like the ending. I will definitely be reading more from this author
Christmas Actually by Lisa Darcy.
I love the cover of this book. It's why i signed up for the tour. I did enjoy it. I got into it straight away. This is not your typical romance book. It deals with everyday lives leading up to Christmas. I did like Kate, the main character. I felt her every frustration. Every emotion. This was fast-paced and witty. This was very cleverly written. I loved the writing style. I did like the ending. I will definitely be reading more from this author
November 5, 2024
Officially my favourite season and I absolutely love all things Christmas, it's no surprise that I instantly grabbed this book just for the glorious front cover and title!
I also recently read The Pact by this author and really enjoyed it, so knew that this book would be a great read!
This, however, wasn't really what I was expecting at all!
You know that I go into books blind, without reading any blurbs so that I don't get any spoilers and can enjoy the surprise of what's to come.
So to find that this wasn't your usual festive romance was a little bit of a shock at first.
Having said that this really was a lovely story following Kate as she struggles to juggle all of the things going on in her life at the moment and also to come to terms with her past.
A heartwarming story of self discovery, family and forgiveness.
As a mum myself, I really felt connected to Kate and think that she'll be super relatable to many who also feel as though they struggle sometimes with overwhelm.
It was nice to see things written so openly in fiction where everything isn't perfect or things don't work out as we hoped or planned, this felt much more realistic.
I enjoyed the writing style which was easy to read and flowed well. I just found that the lace dipped a bit towards the end.
There were some really tough topics explored here and these were sensitively tackled.
Overall a great read - but definitely not one to be judged by its festive cover.
I also recently read The Pact by this author and really enjoyed it, so knew that this book would be a great read!
This, however, wasn't really what I was expecting at all!
You know that I go into books blind, without reading any blurbs so that I don't get any spoilers and can enjoy the surprise of what's to come.
So to find that this wasn't your usual festive romance was a little bit of a shock at first.
Having said that this really was a lovely story following Kate as she struggles to juggle all of the things going on in her life at the moment and also to come to terms with her past.
A heartwarming story of self discovery, family and forgiveness.
As a mum myself, I really felt connected to Kate and think that she'll be super relatable to many who also feel as though they struggle sometimes with overwhelm.
It was nice to see things written so openly in fiction where everything isn't perfect or things don't work out as we hoped or planned, this felt much more realistic.
I enjoyed the writing style which was easy to read and flowed well. I just found that the lace dipped a bit towards the end.
There were some really tough topics explored here and these were sensitively tackled.
Overall a great read - but definitely not one to be judged by its festive cover.
September 11, 2024
Christmas Actually isn’t your usual Christmas book. It takes place in December but Christmas is only vaguely mentioned. Once upon a time, Kate was planning to be a professional photographer. Then life, marriage and motherhood got in the way. Kate is offered a temporary position as a photographer of a cooking magazine. She accepts and finds out how hard it is to do everything. She has a husband, two children, a pregnant single sister and parents who are reconciling after many years divorced. Kate made assumptions and acted on them based on her stressed out observations. Kate’s co-workers annoyed me. I don’t know why she would want to work with them. If you want a book about the realities of working mothers, go for it. If you want a warm Christmas book, this isn’t it.
September 9, 2024
A family drama dealing with issues of motherhood, marriage, workplace politics, social media and the added pressures that hit in the lead up to Christmas.
This is the second book I’ve read from this author and I find her characters real and relatable.
Many readers will easily identify with the hurdles and issues Kate deals with trying to be the perfect wife, mother, daughter and sister. This, and a lot of self-doubt, has caused Kate to loose sight of her dreams of becoming a successful photographer.
A cautionary tale of trying too hard to be everything to everyone and neglecting yourself.
An easy, enjoyable read that reminds us that life is about forgiveness and acceptance.
Thanks to @bloodhoundbooks and the author @lisadarcy for my preview copy in exchange for an honest review.
This is the second book I’ve read from this author and I find her characters real and relatable.
Many readers will easily identify with the hurdles and issues Kate deals with trying to be the perfect wife, mother, daughter and sister. This, and a lot of self-doubt, has caused Kate to loose sight of her dreams of becoming a successful photographer.
A cautionary tale of trying too hard to be everything to everyone and neglecting yourself.
An easy, enjoyable read that reminds us that life is about forgiveness and acceptance.
Thanks to @bloodhoundbooks and the author @lisadarcy for my preview copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2024
“Christmas Actually” by Lisa Darcy is a delightful contemporary fiction novel set during the holiday season about family, second chances, and the realities of juggling life’s unexpected turns.
Katie Cavendish is a woman approaching midlife who feels like she’s fallen short of the dreams she once held. The passion for her career as a photographer was set aside by motherhood and the never-ending demands of family life. Her marriage to Matthew has become more of a quiet coexistence, shaped more by routine and obligation than the passionate love or connection they once shared, and her relationship with her teenage daughter Lexi is – well actually somewhat normal when it comes to raising a teenaged girl testing the boundaries through rebellion and snark.
Add to that a bit of sibling rivalry—Katie’s sister Robyn is a social media influencer whose perfectly curated life contrasts sharply with Katie’s chaos. It’s no wonder that Katie feels like she’s just drifting through life instead of participating.
When an old friend throws her the lifeline of a short-term photography gig, a Christmas campaign for a high-profile magazine, Katie hesitates but takes the plunge. The job rekindles her creative spirit, but it also adds another layer of stress as she struggles to balance her family, rediscover her confidence, and navigate a world that seems to have moved on without her.
Lisa Darcy’s writing is sharp, witty, and conversational, provoking many laugh-out-loud moments throughout the story. She excels at capturing the unpolished reality of modern family life—the last-minute dinner disasters, the forgotten commitments, the teenage meltdowns—all of which contribute to the realistic pandemonium of Katie’s world.
Katie is such a refreshingly flawed protagonist. She’s complicated. All too often, she measures herself against other women who appear to have perfect lives. Her sister Robyn’s flawless, Instagram-ready life feels like an impossible standard, and her friend Fern’s high-powered career looks effortless from the outside. Katie’s return to photography in a modern, high-pressure environment gives her “imposter syndrome” and feelings of being left behind.
Of course, things aren’t always as they seem. Katie knows that her sister’s Instagram-ready life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Her friend Fern seemingly has it all, but does she really? Her interactions with her demanding boss and her unexpected encounters with her son’s soccer coach inject moments of tension, humor, and even flirtation into her story. Still, Katie’s constant comparison highlights her internalized belief that she’s less capable. As a reader, you want to assure her that she IS “all that” and tell her to pull herself together. But as a woman, you feel her pain. I do like how the author uses these moments to subtly remind readers that appearances rarely reflect the full story.
The novel’s setting, though nestled within the backdrop of the Christmas season, goes beyond the traditional “holiday story.” While the holiday lights, decorations, and festive meals are ever-present, Darcy uses them to explore deeper themes of self-worth, fulfillment, and longing for connection. Christmas is actually the perfect metaphor for Katie’s opportunity to pause, reflect, and begin again.
“Christmas Actually” by Lisa Darcy is an engaging, humorous novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary women’s fiction. It’s a relatable, feel-good story that reminds us it’s never too late to rediscover who we are and find what truly brings us joy. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartfelt, inspiring read.
Katie Cavendish is a woman approaching midlife who feels like she’s fallen short of the dreams she once held. The passion for her career as a photographer was set aside by motherhood and the never-ending demands of family life. Her marriage to Matthew has become more of a quiet coexistence, shaped more by routine and obligation than the passionate love or connection they once shared, and her relationship with her teenage daughter Lexi is – well actually somewhat normal when it comes to raising a teenaged girl testing the boundaries through rebellion and snark.
Add to that a bit of sibling rivalry—Katie’s sister Robyn is a social media influencer whose perfectly curated life contrasts sharply with Katie’s chaos. It’s no wonder that Katie feels like she’s just drifting through life instead of participating.
When an old friend throws her the lifeline of a short-term photography gig, a Christmas campaign for a high-profile magazine, Katie hesitates but takes the plunge. The job rekindles her creative spirit, but it also adds another layer of stress as she struggles to balance her family, rediscover her confidence, and navigate a world that seems to have moved on without her.
Lisa Darcy’s writing is sharp, witty, and conversational, provoking many laugh-out-loud moments throughout the story. She excels at capturing the unpolished reality of modern family life—the last-minute dinner disasters, the forgotten commitments, the teenage meltdowns—all of which contribute to the realistic pandemonium of Katie’s world.
Katie is such a refreshingly flawed protagonist. She’s complicated. All too often, she measures herself against other women who appear to have perfect lives. Her sister Robyn’s flawless, Instagram-ready life feels like an impossible standard, and her friend Fern’s high-powered career looks effortless from the outside. Katie’s return to photography in a modern, high-pressure environment gives her “imposter syndrome” and feelings of being left behind.
Of course, things aren’t always as they seem. Katie knows that her sister’s Instagram-ready life isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. Her friend Fern seemingly has it all, but does she really? Her interactions with her demanding boss and her unexpected encounters with her son’s soccer coach inject moments of tension, humor, and even flirtation into her story. Still, Katie’s constant comparison highlights her internalized belief that she’s less capable. As a reader, you want to assure her that she IS “all that” and tell her to pull herself together. But as a woman, you feel her pain. I do like how the author uses these moments to subtly remind readers that appearances rarely reflect the full story.
The novel’s setting, though nestled within the backdrop of the Christmas season, goes beyond the traditional “holiday story.” While the holiday lights, decorations, and festive meals are ever-present, Darcy uses them to explore deeper themes of self-worth, fulfillment, and longing for connection. Christmas is actually the perfect metaphor for Katie’s opportunity to pause, reflect, and begin again.
“Christmas Actually” by Lisa Darcy is an engaging, humorous novel that will appeal to fans of contemporary women’s fiction. It’s a relatable, feel-good story that reminds us it’s never too late to rediscover who we are and find what truly brings us joy. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a heartfelt, inspiring read.
September 29, 2024
What I really enjoyed about this book is how relatable it is. It's something I think this author is particularly adept at. Creating characters who live real lives that could easily be yours or mine.
I thought that setting it in the run-up to Christmas was particularly clever, the added stresses we put ourselves under is enough to make anyone crack, let alone someone also going through work/family/relationship stresses.
There's some particularly tough themes explored; bullying, trolling, miscarriage, cheating, and toxic workplaces. This isn't just a light Christmas family saga that you might expect.
I'd have liked Kate to speak to Matthew and see them hash things out rather than the unspoken agreement they ended up with.
I thought it was gripping from the off. There was heart, humour, and hunger at Dana's food creations!
It was a lovely read.
I thought that setting it in the run-up to Christmas was particularly clever, the added stresses we put ourselves under is enough to make anyone crack, let alone someone also going through work/family/relationship stresses.
There's some particularly tough themes explored; bullying, trolling, miscarriage, cheating, and toxic workplaces. This isn't just a light Christmas family saga that you might expect.
I'd have liked Kate to speak to Matthew and see them hash things out rather than the unspoken agreement they ended up with.
I thought it was gripping from the off. There was heart, humour, and hunger at Dana's food creations!
It was a lovely read.
September 30, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book 📖
This book is excellent for mothers of teenage girls and the mixed feelings that come with it.
Kate Cavendish is a mother of 2, she takes a temporary job as a photographer which is a passion of Kate's. She feels forgotten about with her daughter and feels her husband doesn't love her anymore.
She throws all her energy into the job but her personal life is thrown into peril when her daughter feels she doesn't understand her and her husband Matthew just wants her attention rather than her family who also demands all of Kate's attention.
This book is excellent for all those people out there that can resonate with Kate and feel no matter what you do or say it's wrong.
This book is excellent for mothers of teenage girls and the mixed feelings that come with it.
Kate Cavendish is a mother of 2, she takes a temporary job as a photographer which is a passion of Kate's. She feels forgotten about with her daughter and feels her husband doesn't love her anymore.
She throws all her energy into the job but her personal life is thrown into peril when her daughter feels she doesn't understand her and her husband Matthew just wants her attention rather than her family who also demands all of Kate's attention.
This book is excellent for all those people out there that can resonate with Kate and feel no matter what you do or say it's wrong.
November 15, 2024
Book number two of my Christmas TBR pile and what another brilliant story! It wasn’t as festive as I was hoping, but the themes included made up for it. Family, forgiveness, and starting again, as well as the joys (and stresses) of parent life are all explored so well.
Christmas Actually can be best described as a family drama with a sprinkling of Christmas. It explores relationships in all their forms and as a result has characters you will remember (for both good reasons and bad!) I loved the the theme of forgiveness, of taking chances and appreciating what you have. So many moments in this book had me thinking about my own life and how we should embrace life, our hopes and our dreams. There’s second chance love, strong women, workplace romance (but not the good kind) and rebuilding relationships, and the author does such a brilliant job of bringing all these elements together. A really lovely and uplifting book by the end, with so many relatable moments!
Christmas Actually can be best described as a family drama with a sprinkling of Christmas. It explores relationships in all their forms and as a result has characters you will remember (for both good reasons and bad!) I loved the the theme of forgiveness, of taking chances and appreciating what you have. So many moments in this book had me thinking about my own life and how we should embrace life, our hopes and our dreams. There’s second chance love, strong women, workplace romance (but not the good kind) and rebuilding relationships, and the author does such a brilliant job of bringing all these elements together. A really lovely and uplifting book by the end, with so many relatable moments!
September 25, 2024
I liked this book but didn't love it in the way I wanted to. I think I didn't fully engage with Kate as the main character.
Set in the month leading up to Christmas, Kate has just got a job using her photography skills, but this is putting pressure at home. Her husband wants to move with work, her teenage is acting up, and her mum wants to get married to her dad again...even though he abandoned them all 25 years earlier.
After a drunken night out for her birthday, Kate is forced to reassess all her relationships, but can they survive?
The plot moves along nicely, but as I said, I just didn't love it the way I wanted to.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
Set in the month leading up to Christmas, Kate has just got a job using her photography skills, but this is putting pressure at home. Her husband wants to move with work, her teenage is acting up, and her mum wants to get married to her dad again...even though he abandoned them all 25 years earlier.
After a drunken night out for her birthday, Kate is forced to reassess all her relationships, but can they survive?
The plot moves along nicely, but as I said, I just didn't love it the way I wanted to.
Thanks to Bloodhound books for sending me an advanced copy to read and review
October 15, 2024
This is not a Christmassy story as the cover suggests but a cautionary tale leading up to the holiday . It's a fast-paced quirky family drama about Kate trying to juggle life, marriage, children, relationship stress, plus a job, and losing herself in the process during the chaos of holiday preparation.
I found the characters believable and relatable to anyone trying to find that work/life balance. Kate's insights are sometimes hilarious, albeit right on the nose with all the stress and drama women face every day.
As a woman, a wife, and a mother, I felt connected to Kate as I think most women will. It was nice to see these things we all worry and struggle with, written in a way that is not all neatly tied up with a bow.
With laugh out loud humor, this is an easy and enjoyable read with the backdrop of Christmas.
I found the characters believable and relatable to anyone trying to find that work/life balance. Kate's insights are sometimes hilarious, albeit right on the nose with all the stress and drama women face every day.
As a woman, a wife, and a mother, I felt connected to Kate as I think most women will. It was nice to see these things we all worry and struggle with, written in a way that is not all neatly tied up with a bow.
With laugh out loud humor, this is an easy and enjoyable read with the backdrop of Christmas.
September 23, 2024
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review. This is the first Lisa Darcy book I have read and I really enjoyed it.
In Christmas Actually, Lisa Darcy crafts a heartfelt narrative that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the struggles women face in balancing career and personal life. The story centres around Kate, who, amidst the chaos of holiday preparations, grapples with a profound sense of losing herself in the pursuit of “having it all.”
Darcy's portrayal of Kate’s journey is both relatable and poignant. As Kate navigates the pressures of work and family expectations, readers witness her internal conflict and the realization that in her quest to fulfil every role, she has sacrificed her own identity. The book beautifully highlights the theme of self-discovery, reminding us that it’s okay to pause and reassess what truly matters.
The holiday setting adds a layer of warmth and nostalgia, enriching the narrative with moments of reflection and connection. Darcy’s writing is engaging, blending humour and heartfelt moments, making it an enjoyable read for anyone who has felt the weight of trying to juggle multiple roles.
Overall, Christmas Actually is a thoughtful exploration of self-identity, family, and the holiday spirit. It resonates with anyone striving to find balance in their lives, encouraging readers to embrace their true selves amid life’s demands.
In Christmas Actually, Lisa Darcy crafts a heartfelt narrative that delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the struggles women face in balancing career and personal life. The story centres around Kate, who, amidst the chaos of holiday preparations, grapples with a profound sense of losing herself in the pursuit of “having it all.”
Darcy's portrayal of Kate’s journey is both relatable and poignant. As Kate navigates the pressures of work and family expectations, readers witness her internal conflict and the realization that in her quest to fulfil every role, she has sacrificed her own identity. The book beautifully highlights the theme of self-discovery, reminding us that it’s okay to pause and reassess what truly matters.
The holiday setting adds a layer of warmth and nostalgia, enriching the narrative with moments of reflection and connection. Darcy’s writing is engaging, blending humour and heartfelt moments, making it an enjoyable read for anyone who has felt the weight of trying to juggle multiple roles.
Overall, Christmas Actually is a thoughtful exploration of self-identity, family, and the holiday spirit. It resonates with anyone striving to find balance in their lives, encouraging readers to embrace their true selves amid life’s demands.
September 28, 2024
This is a delightful and insightful read about modern life and the complexities of juggling marriage, children and family members. Kate Cavendish worries that her husband has lost interest in her, her teenage daughter is challenging, her sister is pregnant and her mother drops a bombshell. So, when Kate is given the opportunity to step back into a work role, the juggle becomes even more difficult. In the lead up to Christmas, with an unexpected event to deal with, Kate learns to understand, accept and forgive both herself and others. An enjoyable read with relevance and wisdom surreptitiously woven into storyline.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to Bloodhound Books for my advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 1, 2024
A relatable story of modern day family life. Many times while reading through this story, I felt like I was reading my own diary. This book is for every woman who gives so much of herself to others, but internally wants something that is just for herself. Following Kate on her journey back into the working world and trying to find that work/life balance, reminded me of so many conversations I’ve had with my own group of girlfriends. This is a quick, holiday read that will pull on your heartstrings.
October 21, 2024
Powerful and charming!
A story about life, family, motherhood and second chances. With relatable characters, an easy to read story about a woman trying to balance a profesional and marriage life. A moving story about love and forgiveness.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 by Lisa Darcy released October 2, 2024.
A story about life, family, motherhood and second chances. With relatable characters, an easy to read story about a woman trying to balance a profesional and marriage life. A moving story about love and forgiveness.
Thank you Suzy Approved Book Tours for this tour invite.
𝗖𝗵𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗺𝗮𝘀 𝗔𝗰𝘁𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗹𝘆 by Lisa Darcy released October 2, 2024.
September 30, 2024
A good Christmas book about family and love, what more do you need at this time of year. Fast paced and funny. I loved it well worth a read. Good characters and good storyline.
October 9, 2024
Title: Christmas Actually
Author: Lisa Darcy
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format: ebook
Publication: 2nd October 2024
✨ 4/5
Not my usual choice of genre and not your typical ‘Christmas based romance’ but a nice, enjoyable easy read that touches on many themes of modern family life.
We follow Kate on what essentially ends up being a journey of self discovery as she tackles raising children, marriage issues and many other problems that many of us face in the modern world. Some of Kate’s issues were relatable particularly her experiences of self doubt as she navigates returning to work and settling back into a career.
The characters were well thought out and believable - behaving and having experiences that you would expect at the times of life they are portrayed in.
Not quite the ‘Christmas’ read I’d anticipated from the blurb and title but enjoyable nonetheless and one I’d recommend for someone looking for an easy to read romance without your typical ending.
September 24, 2024
As a normal non-seasonal book this would be a great easy read with good characters and plot but for me as a seasonal read it wasn't as good. There are references to Christmas all through the book but for me there was no actual Christmas feel good factor.
September 24, 2024
I really enjoyed this book. It was very relatable and humorous. I have similar aged children and often found myself in sympathy with Mai character Kate.
October 2, 2024
This is my first book by this author. I was invited to share a review in exchange for a free ebook. It was perfect timing and I enjoyed it, it was a great poolside read for my holiday!
September 22, 2024
"Christmas Actually" by Lisa Darcy is a heartwarming and delightful holiday read that captures the magic of the Christmas season. The novel weaves together multiple love stories set against the backdrop of the festive period, creating a cozy and enchanting atmosphere that draws readers in from the start. Darcy's writing style is engaging, and she skillfully develops the characters, making them relatable and endearing. Overall, "Christmas Actually" is a charming novel that spreads joy and love, making it a perfect choice for anyone looking for a feel-good holiday read.
October 8, 2024
I enjoyed this story of family and life and love that is set as the countdown to Christmas begins. Kate is having a mid-life crisis and is struggling with life. It is multiplied when she jumps into a temporary position in the weeks leading up to Christmas and feels that no one is supporting her. She wonders how she got to this place and what she can do to change it? Kate and her struggle will be recognizable to many women trying to juggle love, family, parents, and career all while getting ready for Christmas. The characters and their struggles felt real and very relatable. The writing was engaging and made me feel all the things as I got to know Kate and her family.This is a book for readers looking for a relatable story about life and family and all the messiness that goes with it.
September 18, 2024
4 1/2 stars
September 15, 2024
Kate is given an opportunity to resume her career as a photographer after a break to be a full time Mum. Trying to juggle her home life with a full time job proves to be more than she expected. A hormonal teenager, a preoccupied husband and a pregnant sister all test her stamina but when her Mum causes a lot of hidden issues to surface poor Kate starts to drop the ball. How will she cope with Christmas on top of all that! A great novel with a heart warming ending.
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