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Christmas #1
The Night Before Christmas
Felicity Brooks is a bit of a Scrooge—but when she meets a man dressed as a giant penguin on Christmas Eve, could it spell a change of heart?
The ridiculous music. The excessive presents. The stupid Christmas sweaters. Felicity wants nothing more than to escape it all, and she pounces on the chance to work shifts over the holiday season at an animal rescue center. After all, it’s the only place that brings her true happiness.
But one day, her evening is disturbed by a stranger named James—dressed as a penguin and cradling a weak kitten. As Felicity and James work together to nurse the sick feline back to health, it gives them the perfect excuse to bond over their mutual dislike of all things festive. And soon, sparks fly.
However, their attraction is interrupted when Felicity’s ex-boyfriend Adam returns to declare his undying love. And when she’s let down by both men, Felicity decides to return to her childhood home for some peace. While there, she uncovers an array of family secrets, and even more about herself—which may just help her to make a choice between the penguin and the ex . . .
The ridiculous music. The excessive presents. The stupid Christmas sweaters. Felicity wants nothing more than to escape it all, and she pounces on the chance to work shifts over the holiday season at an animal rescue center. After all, it’s the only place that brings her true happiness.
But one day, her evening is disturbed by a stranger named James—dressed as a penguin and cradling a weak kitten. As Felicity and James work together to nurse the sick feline back to health, it gives them the perfect excuse to bond over their mutual dislike of all things festive. And soon, sparks fly.
However, their attraction is interrupted when Felicity’s ex-boyfriend Adam returns to declare his undying love. And when she’s let down by both men, Felicity decides to return to her childhood home for some peace. While there, she uncovers an array of family secrets, and even more about herself—which may just help her to make a choice between the penguin and the ex . . .
1 pages, Audio CD
First published September 9, 2023
109 people are currently reading
175 people want to read
About the author
Nicola Knight
2 books14 followersNicola writes wholesome-ish commercial romantic comedy with plenty of heart, plenty of swoon and heavy on the comedy.
She was runner up in the Daily Mail First Novel competition in 2023 and her debut novel, The Night Before Christmas, a romantic comedy featuring giant penguins, rescued cats, and an unforgettable heroine, was first published in September 2024 by Bloodhound Books. It was shortlisted for Debut of the Year at the Romantic Novel Awards run by the Romantic Novelists Association. The sequel, The Day After Christmas, is released on October 20th 2025.
Nicola lives in Norfolk with her husband, young daughter and three* chaotic rescue cats (*number correct at time of going to press) for whom she is the official door opener and designated spare human.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 161 reviews
November 9, 2025
3⭐
Genre ~ contemporary fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ book ~ September 24, 2024, audio ~ November 8, 2024
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 322 (49 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 45 minutes
Narrator ~ Hannah Curtis
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ debut, a bunch of ex drama, slow burn, will they or won’t they, no steamage, cheating references
Felicity & James meet when he shows up, dressed as a penguin, at the animal rescue she works at with a sick kitten on Christmas Eve.
It determined that they both are not fans of Christmas and have a soft spot for animals, so they have a sort of comradery in those respects. However, I never really felt the connection between them. Perhaps because ex's are brought into the picture and took up way too much page time. I'm fine with an ex showing up, but just briefly enough to get kicked to the curb again.
Overall, I liked this well enough for a debut, but there was just too much ex-partner drama for me. I did like her writing style, just not this particular plot, so I would give this author a go again.
Narration notes:
She did fine, but it was so slow sounding at 3x that I wish there was a higher option.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
Genre ~ contemporary fiction
Setting ~ England
Publication date ~ book ~ September 24, 2024, audio ~ November 8, 2024
Publisher ~ Dreamscape Media
Est Page Count ~ 322 (49 chapters)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 45 minutes
Narrator ~ Hannah Curtis
POV ~ single 3rd
Featuring ~ debut, a bunch of ex drama, slow burn, will they or won’t they, no steamage, cheating references
Felicity & James meet when he shows up, dressed as a penguin, at the animal rescue she works at with a sick kitten on Christmas Eve.
It determined that they both are not fans of Christmas and have a soft spot for animals, so they have a sort of comradery in those respects. However, I never really felt the connection between them. Perhaps because ex's are brought into the picture and took up way too much page time. I'm fine with an ex showing up, but just briefly enough to get kicked to the curb again.
Overall, I liked this well enough for a debut, but there was just too much ex-partner drama for me. I did like her writing style, just not this particular plot, so I would give this author a go again.
Narration notes:
She did fine, but it was so slow sounding at 3x that I wish there was a higher option.
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X
November 2, 2024
Another holiday romcom of a couple Grinches who meet, while rescuing a little fur baby, and eventually fall in love. Sounds like my kind of story. I knew from the get-go; I was going to like Felicity. Never mind that she’s a Grinch (I really don’t care about that), and that she would rather spend her holiday with animals than with most people (I know a lot of people like that, nothing wrong with that), Felicity is good people in my book! LOVE HER!!!
Then there is James, drop dead gorgeous, too good to be true, rescuer of a kitten who got separated from her momma in a storm. LOVE HIM!!! Then he and Felicity go back out and rescue momma kitty, who was looking for her lost baby. Lol, loved the Die Hard names that momma and baby were bestowed. Love that movie!!! Great holiday movie!!! Hubby and I watch every year!!!
The book summary lays out the whole primary storyline so I’m not going to repeat it. What the book summary doesn’t mention is that Felicity is a bit of a hot mess and her life for the last three years since dumping her fiancé, Adam, on Christmas day has been kind of pathetic. It wasn’t until she found that working at the animal rescue was exactly what she loved and needed. Then all at once, the entrance of two men who are vying for her attention to totally confused her and make life oh so complicated.
Most of the story revolves around Felicity and James getting to know each other better, which is complicated because James has his own relationship issues. James is also aware of Felicity’s relationship issues with the reemergence of Adam and is cautious about jumping into something more with Felicity. However, it’s in the second half when Felicity decides to confront and deal with some long-buried childhood trauma that has affected her life ever since.
The character development of Felicity was well done, especially in the second half. The rest of the cast seemed more like extras with rather slim character development. The pacing and storylines were on par for a decent holiday romcom. However, the second half turned into more than a holiday romcom. The writing also started out like the typical holiday romcom but took a turn into a drama in the second half and definitely got better. I’m usually not a fan of domestic dramas, but I liked this one because there were so many passages that had me cracking up one minute and the next minute got really heavy. I also really enjoyed the ending. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will round up to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #DreamscapeMedia #TheNightBeforeChristmas
Then there is James, drop dead gorgeous, too good to be true, rescuer of a kitten who got separated from her momma in a storm. LOVE HIM!!! Then he and Felicity go back out and rescue momma kitty, who was looking for her lost baby. Lol, loved the Die Hard names that momma and baby were bestowed. Love that movie!!! Great holiday movie!!! Hubby and I watch every year!!!
The book summary lays out the whole primary storyline so I’m not going to repeat it. What the book summary doesn’t mention is that Felicity is a bit of a hot mess and her life for the last three years since dumping her fiancé, Adam, on Christmas day has been kind of pathetic. It wasn’t until she found that working at the animal rescue was exactly what she loved and needed. Then all at once, the entrance of two men who are vying for her attention to totally confused her and make life oh so complicated.
Most of the story revolves around Felicity and James getting to know each other better, which is complicated because James has his own relationship issues. James is also aware of Felicity’s relationship issues with the reemergence of Adam and is cautious about jumping into something more with Felicity. However, it’s in the second half when Felicity decides to confront and deal with some long-buried childhood trauma that has affected her life ever since.
The character development of Felicity was well done, especially in the second half. The rest of the cast seemed more like extras with rather slim character development. The pacing and storylines were on par for a decent holiday romcom. However, the second half turned into more than a holiday romcom. The writing also started out like the typical holiday romcom but took a turn into a drama in the second half and definitely got better. I’m usually not a fan of domestic dramas, but I liked this one because there were so many passages that had me cracking up one minute and the next minute got really heavy. I also really enjoyed the ending. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.9 that I will round up to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #DreamscapeMedia #TheNightBeforeChristmas
September 15, 2024
I received a free copy of, The Night Before Christmas, by Nicola Knight, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Felicity Brooks despises Christmas, he music, decorations. all of it. One night she meets a man dressed up as a penguin, with a sick cat, at the animal rescue she works at. Could this be the year Christmas is not despised? This was a warm and cozy read.
October 5, 2024
I love a feel-good Christmas story. This one is a fabulous example of what I love about this type of book. It's got the usual clichés, it's predictable and I don't mind that. I've gone into this knowing I'm going to be getting it. It's what I like and want when reading a Christmas romance. This festive time of the year, I want warm and cosy. This also comes with a few things I didn't expect, and it is charming and funny, too.
I loved all the characters and their back stories and enjoyed their development along the way. There were maybe a couple of characters I really didn't like, but they all felt like real people. Maybe some of it was a little too good to be true, but that adds to the appeal of a romance. I loved the story, and it had me invested right through to the end.
What can I say? It had penguins, cats, Die Hard, and other usual Christmas things. Full of highs and lows, a warm-hearted and easy festive read. I recommend adding this to your tbr this Christmas.
Just to add, Die Hard is totally a Christmas film!
Thank you. Love Book Tours, Bloodhound Books, for my gifted copy.
My opinions are my own
I loved all the characters and their back stories and enjoyed their development along the way. There were maybe a couple of characters I really didn't like, but they all felt like real people. Maybe some of it was a little too good to be true, but that adds to the appeal of a romance. I loved the story, and it had me invested right through to the end.
What can I say? It had penguins, cats, Die Hard, and other usual Christmas things. Full of highs and lows, a warm-hearted and easy festive read. I recommend adding this to your tbr this Christmas.
Just to add, Die Hard is totally a Christmas film!
Thank you. Love Book Tours, Bloodhound Books, for my gifted copy.
My opinions are my own
October 2, 2024
Christmas time, a cute romance, and cats, what more do you want?
This is such a cosy Rom-Com, it starts with an unexpected meet cute, and they bond over their dislike of everything Christmas, except Die hard.
I absolutely adored all their carefree and swoony banter, and their bonding at the animal rescue centre.
There is lots of drama, some awkward moments, and it's very entertaining.
I liked all the revelations dotted throughout including revisiting her childhood and Felicity's journey of healing.
It's the perfect book if you want a heartwarming slow burn romance for the festive season that will give you laughs and twists.
❄️ "Now I'm getting sass from an overgrown penguin. That's all I need"
❄️"What are the chances that you didn't just see that?"
"Um. sure, okay. Yeah, I didn't see anything"
"Liar"
❄️"But if you want me to bugger off, say so and I'll go. No questions asked"
"Bugger off"
❄️"When I'm with him, I don't want to run away and hide. He makes me feel calm and like I can trust him and I'm... I'm not used to that"
❄️"I'm telling you. He's a smitten kitten, pardon the pun"
This is such a cosy Rom-Com, it starts with an unexpected meet cute, and they bond over their dislike of everything Christmas, except Die hard.
I absolutely adored all their carefree and swoony banter, and their bonding at the animal rescue centre.
There is lots of drama, some awkward moments, and it's very entertaining.
I liked all the revelations dotted throughout including revisiting her childhood and Felicity's journey of healing.
It's the perfect book if you want a heartwarming slow burn romance for the festive season that will give you laughs and twists.
❄️ "Now I'm getting sass from an overgrown penguin. That's all I need"
❄️"What are the chances that you didn't just see that?"
"Um. sure, okay. Yeah, I didn't see anything"
"Liar"
❄️"But if you want me to bugger off, say so and I'll go. No questions asked"
"Bugger off"
❄️"When I'm with him, I don't want to run away and hide. He makes me feel calm and like I can trust him and I'm... I'm not used to that"
❄️"I'm telling you. He's a smitten kitten, pardon the pun"
December 10, 2024
Another super cute Christmas book, but this one has animal rescue at its heart! Yay! It’s somewhat predictable as most books of this genre tend to be, but the Christmas readers know what they’re signing up for here and we love it! There’s also a story under the romance here about working through therapy which is wholesome.
Recommended for all the friends who enjoy our seasonal, feel good Christmas reads!
Recommended for all the friends who enjoy our seasonal, feel good Christmas reads!
November 26, 2024
Cute, feel good Christmas story!
November 9, 2024
The Night Before Christmas by Nicola Knight and narrated by Hanna Curtis is a great debut romance. Felicity is expecting to spend Christmas night alone when a man dressed as a penguin knocks on the door and has a bedraggled kitten in his hands. This is how she meets Ryan who spends Christmas Eve with her where she works at the animal rescue. They spend the night eating snacks and discussing their dislike for the Christmas season. Further on we realize it’s really boxing day they dislike for different reasons. When he arrives again the next day felicity is an unhappy about it at all but then her ex also shows up with the ring and full of remorse. But this is just the beginning of his take me back campaign and he isn’t the only one from the past that’s going to rear their ugly head. The more “non-dates“ they go on the more Felicity likes him and when he starts volunteering that just gives them more time to spend together at least infelicities mine. She tries to talk to her friends and her boss, who I absolutely love by the way but the advice they give about what she should do is mixed she even seeks therapy but in the end it will be up to Felicity to choose which man she wants to be with. I really enjoyed this book I do think the time spent on all the unnecessary could’ve been left out and made the book shorter like everything with her ex… Well not everything but a lot of it I thought Felicity seemed like such a nice person although a bit awkward but I found that just made the story that much better. I thought Hannah Curtis had great narration and a lovely voice that I could listen to probably read anything and it all made for an awesome listening experience. #NetGalley, #DreamscapeMedia,#NicolaKnight, #HannahCurtis, #theNightBeforeChristmas,
October 10, 2025
This book was excellent, and I loved it. The story was brilliant. It made me laugh a lot. I love the cover. The wee penguin is adorable. The colours are good and they pop! The book is beautifully written and flows nicely. The humour in the book made it feel very lighthearted. More issues were addressed that aren't so lighthearted, such as animal abandonment and feeling abandoned by family. Nicola writes about these so sensitively. I loved the setting, which for the most part is set in the animal rescue centre. I think this helps create awareness that there are furbabies out there in shelters who need homes. I loved the characters. Felicity was such a kind soul. I felt sad for her at times, too. Penguin Man/James was an excellent MMC. I mean, who doesn't love it when a man loves animals and is so good with them? Adam was interesting. He certainly has his fair share of flaws, but I'm sure deep down he's lovely. I would definitely recommend this and I can't wait to read the next installment!
December 13, 2024
This was such a lovely feel-good listen. Perfect for this time of year. When a man turns up at the animal shelter dressed as a penguin, holding a tiny kitten, Felicity's life is turned upside down.
The narrator did such a wonderful job at bringing the story to life. I could listen to her all day.
The story explores Felicity's past trauma of how she came to hate Christmas, and I think the author did this really well. I loved the characters and the really sweet moments between James and Felicity.
I thought the story was well written, and I liked the plot. It was what I would expect from a warm, cosy romance. It is not very spicy, and I liked that aspect as it suited this style of writing.
Yes, Die Hard is a Christmas film!
I recommend this book if you want a feel-good cosy romance with the bonus of cat lovers! I was definitely invested!
With thanks to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound Books, and the author for providing a copy of the audiobook. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
The narrator did such a wonderful job at bringing the story to life. I could listen to her all day.
The story explores Felicity's past trauma of how she came to hate Christmas, and I think the author did this really well. I loved the characters and the really sweet moments between James and Felicity.
I thought the story was well written, and I liked the plot. It was what I would expect from a warm, cosy romance. It is not very spicy, and I liked that aspect as it suited this style of writing.
Yes, Die Hard is a Christmas film!
I recommend this book if you want a feel-good cosy romance with the bonus of cat lovers! I was definitely invested!
With thanks to Love Books Tours, Bloodhound Books, and the author for providing a copy of the audiobook. This is my honest review, which I'm leaving voluntarily.
October 11, 2024
This was a cute closed door romance that had my heart involved from the very first mew of a tiny rescued kitten. An animal rescue is one of the main settings for this book, so that had already had points in its favor. I appreciated the talk of therapy in this, along with actually seeing the FMC go to sessions. Because whew, this woman has not had good people in her life. But she does end up with a HEA. This was part romance and part finding yourself and facing your past. Overall a good read.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 meet cute
💋 slow burn
💋 meddling exes
Felicity hates Christmas. So she volunteers to work all the shifts at the animal rescue. Just as she is settling in with her snacks and John McClaine, someone starts pounding at the door. Crossing her fingers it wasn’t a nefarious criminal on the other side when they said they think the animal they have might be passing on, she opens it to find a man in a wet penguin suit with a cold furball. Working together they work to save her and the mama cat. He comes back the next day to check on the cats.. and her. And keeps coming back. But it’s for the cats, right?
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
❤️ Tropes ❤️
💋 meet cute
💋 slow burn
💋 meddling exes
Felicity hates Christmas. So she volunteers to work all the shifts at the animal rescue. Just as she is settling in with her snacks and John McClaine, someone starts pounding at the door. Crossing her fingers it wasn’t a nefarious criminal on the other side when they said they think the animal they have might be passing on, she opens it to find a man in a wet penguin suit with a cold furball. Working together they work to save her and the mama cat. He comes back the next day to check on the cats.. and her. And keeps coming back. But it’s for the cats, right?
Thank you to Love Book Tours for the copy, all thoughts are my own.
December 13, 2024
Nicola Knight has written an original and sweet holiday story in The Night Before Christmas.
The story wanders a merry chase, and Knight weaves some unexpected surprises into the tale, with a happy ending everyone can enjoy.
The audiobook is nicely performed by Hannah Curtis.
an audiobook copy of The Night Before Christmas was provided by Dreamscape Media, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
The story wanders a merry chase, and Knight weaves some unexpected surprises into the tale, with a happy ending everyone can enjoy.
The audiobook is nicely performed by Hannah Curtis.
an audiobook copy of The Night Before Christmas was provided by Dreamscape Media, via NetGalley, for the purpose of my honest review, all opinions are my own
November 17, 2025
I’m sorry - but rescue kittens, adorable love interest dressed as a penguin and relatable MC (minus the hating Christmas bit. I love Christmas) - I’m sold !
It took me no time at all to get into this. Fully in the moment as I pressed play to the audiobook. Loved the narration too so it wasn’t hard. I looked forward to going back to this and set against the backdrop of a rescue centre was perfect. It was a simply enjoyable story!
It took me no time at all to get into this. Fully in the moment as I pressed play to the audiobook. Loved the narration too so it wasn’t hard. I looked forward to going back to this and set against the backdrop of a rescue centre was perfect. It was a simply enjoyable story!
November 7, 2024
If you are an animal lover who loves romance this one is for you! I liked this story of Felicity and James, who meet on Christmas Eve night. James (wearing a penguin costume, comes to her job holding a little bundle of wet fur! But by New Year’s, her old flame drops in with a ring in tow! What’s a girl to do!?
November 13, 2024
What a disappointment. This book started out really strong- There was fun banter, a man dressed in a penguin suit trying to rescue a kitten, lots of snacks and two scrooges bonding over a hatred of christmas....This lasts for only a few chapters and then a whole lot of nothing at all happens. Nothing.
I'm always on the hunt for a Christmas book that's, oh I don't know, actually christmas-y? This one was yet another let down on that front, and in general really. The Christmas bit only lasts a few chapters in the beginning and then the story painfully slowly moves on to reveal that literally all the men in this book are cheaters? There was no chemistry between Felicity and either of the men, and honestly they both threw up about a million red flags. And her friend wasn't much better.
This book was so slow, like molasses slow. I'm surprised I even finished it. This was just very much not for me.
I'm always on the hunt for a Christmas book that's, oh I don't know, actually christmas-y? This one was yet another let down on that front, and in general really. The Christmas bit only lasts a few chapters in the beginning and then the story painfully slowly moves on to reveal that literally all the men in this book are cheaters? There was no chemistry between Felicity and either of the men, and honestly they both threw up about a million red flags. And her friend wasn't much better.
This book was so slow, like molasses slow. I'm surprised I even finished it. This was just very much not for me.
September 5, 2024
This debut novel is a solid win, possessing a range of emotions, humor, likable main characters, and charming animals. While the storyline has classic elements of the “I hate all things Christmas” trope, the setting in an animal rescue center and the penguin give it an original spin.
Felicity Brooks’ romantic life is haunted by her traumatic childhood – a father who abruptly walked out at Christmas when she was six and a negligent mother who liked alcohol more than her children. Her safe place is an animal rescue center where she can lavish her love on the animals and receive unconditional love in return. On Christmas Eve, Felicity is confronted by a dripping wet, life-size penguin (James in costume) carrying a tiny, near-death kitten. Setting aside her fears of this unknown man, she sets out with him to find the mother and launches an adventure in love she never saw coming.
I enjoyed Felicity’s journey toward healing and recognizing her worthiness in love and friendship. Her life is peppered with supportive people as well as those who take advantage of her for their own purposes. I appreciated how she began to develop discernment in her relationships as she gained insights from newly revealed secrets from her past. While the novel ends on a high note, there is much emotional turmoil before reaching the conclusion. Overall, I enjoyed the book wish the author well in her future writing endeavors.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
.
Felicity Brooks’ romantic life is haunted by her traumatic childhood – a father who abruptly walked out at Christmas when she was six and a negligent mother who liked alcohol more than her children. Her safe place is an animal rescue center where she can lavish her love on the animals and receive unconditional love in return. On Christmas Eve, Felicity is confronted by a dripping wet, life-size penguin (James in costume) carrying a tiny, near-death kitten. Setting aside her fears of this unknown man, she sets out with him to find the mother and launches an adventure in love she never saw coming.
I enjoyed Felicity’s journey toward healing and recognizing her worthiness in love and friendship. Her life is peppered with supportive people as well as those who take advantage of her for their own purposes. I appreciated how she began to develop discernment in her relationships as she gained insights from newly revealed secrets from her past. While the novel ends on a high note, there is much emotional turmoil before reaching the conclusion. Overall, I enjoyed the book wish the author well in her future writing endeavors.
My thanks to the author, the publisher, and NetGalley for the privilege of reviewing this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
.
September 3, 2024
Felicity Brooks is a bit of a Scrooge—but when she meets a man dressed as a giant penguin on Christmas Eve, could it spell a change of heart?
The ridiculous music. The excessive presents. The stupid Christmas sweaters. Felicity wants nothing more than to escape it all, and she pounces on the chance to work shifts over the holiday season at an animal rescue center. After all, it’s the only place that brings her true happiness.
But one day, her evening is disturbed by a stranger named James—dressed as a penguin and cradling a weak kitten. As Felicity and James work together to nurse the sick feline back to health, it gives them the perfect excuse to bond over their mutual dislike of all things festive. And soon, sparks fly.
However, their attraction is interrupted when Felicity’s ex-boyfriend Adam returns to declare his undying love. And when she’s let down by both men, Felicity decides to return to her childhood home for some peace. While there, she uncovers an array of family secrets, and even more about herself—which may just help her to make a choice between the penguin and the ex...
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Christmas, cats and a gorgeous man dressed as a penguin...Two of which I absolutely adore! ps It's not the penguin.
I devoured this in one sitting, starting it literally moments after being given the ARC from Netgalley.
Felicity and James were such likeable characters, they both hate celebrating Christmas, have an affinity for Die Hard (which is NOT a Christmas movie BTW!) and they both love animals. They were perfect together, but as with all book romances not everything is plain sailing.
The Night Before Christmas is a heartwarming festive fiction read guaranteed to leave you with that warm fuzzy feeling and a smile on your face.
The ridiculous music. The excessive presents. The stupid Christmas sweaters. Felicity wants nothing more than to escape it all, and she pounces on the chance to work shifts over the holiday season at an animal rescue center. After all, it’s the only place that brings her true happiness.
But one day, her evening is disturbed by a stranger named James—dressed as a penguin and cradling a weak kitten. As Felicity and James work together to nurse the sick feline back to health, it gives them the perfect excuse to bond over their mutual dislike of all things festive. And soon, sparks fly.
However, their attraction is interrupted when Felicity’s ex-boyfriend Adam returns to declare his undying love. And when she’s let down by both men, Felicity decides to return to her childhood home for some peace. While there, she uncovers an array of family secrets, and even more about herself—which may just help her to make a choice between the penguin and the ex...
𝗠𝘆 𝗿𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
Christmas, cats and a gorgeous man dressed as a penguin...Two of which I absolutely adore! ps It's not the penguin.
I devoured this in one sitting, starting it literally moments after being given the ARC from Netgalley.
Felicity and James were such likeable characters, they both hate celebrating Christmas, have an affinity for Die Hard (which is NOT a Christmas movie BTW!) and they both love animals. They were perfect together, but as with all book romances not everything is plain sailing.
The Night Before Christmas is a heartwarming festive fiction read guaranteed to leave you with that warm fuzzy feeling and a smile on your face.
October 8, 2024
Felicity isn't a fan of Christmas, so she spends her holiday volunteering at the animal rescue center. This year, her quiet solitude is interrupted by a stranger named James, dressed in a penguin costume and bearing a small newborn kitten. Felicity and James work together to help nurse the kitten back to health, and they bond over their mutual dislike over the holiday season and love of the movie Die Hard. Just as the two of them are starting to feel a connection, Felicity's ex-boyfriend, Adam, shows up. When Felicity's past meets her present, she's forced to confront old memories and feelings she had thought she had left buried in the past.
From the cover and blurb, I thought The Night Before Christmas was going to be a fun, lighthearted holiday read, but it ended up being quite the opposite. This wasn't a bad thing. It was just quite unexpected. While there is a cute holiday romance between Felicity and her Penguin Man, Felicity also faces her past, which is quite traumatic for her. She has her ex-boyfriend, Adam, who is always popping around, getting in the way of her starting a relationship with Josh. (Can I just say I really did not like Adam?) Then she's dealing with her own traumas from her parents' failed relationship. So before she could even try to find love, she had to learn how to move forward and let go. Despite this, there's super cute dogs, cats, rabbits, and a nod to the Christmas classic Die Hard. While it wasn't all fun romcom, I still immensely enjoyed this read and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys animal rescues and an MC torn between her past and present.
From the cover and blurb, I thought The Night Before Christmas was going to be a fun, lighthearted holiday read, but it ended up being quite the opposite. This wasn't a bad thing. It was just quite unexpected. While there is a cute holiday romance between Felicity and her Penguin Man, Felicity also faces her past, which is quite traumatic for her. She has her ex-boyfriend, Adam, who is always popping around, getting in the way of her starting a relationship with Josh. (Can I just say I really did not like Adam?) Then she's dealing with her own traumas from her parents' failed relationship. So before she could even try to find love, she had to learn how to move forward and let go. Despite this, there's super cute dogs, cats, rabbits, and a nod to the Christmas classic Die Hard. While it wasn't all fun romcom, I still immensely enjoyed this read and would recommend it to anyone who enjoys animal rescues and an MC torn between her past and present.
October 7, 2025
What a lovely tale this is!
Felicity hates Christmas! Everything about Christmas! So every year she works hard at her job in an animal rescue shelter. But this year, someone comes knocking on the door, someone who needs her help, someone who may just hate Christmas as much as her!!
I loved this story, the humour throughout was fantastic. It’s definitely the sort of book to grab when you are snuggled up in a blanket with a hot chocolate, ready for a read that will just absorb you.
The main characters are fantastic, you will fall for them both and become fully invested in not just their lives now, but also their pasts, can they overcome their hatred of Christmas?
Andrea is another important character, again written with great humour. She’s a great addition to the story.
The author really pulls you in, makes you laugh out loud and keeps you fully engaged and wanting more. I love the different directions the book goes in, making this story unpredictable rather than what you would typically imagine for this genre.
It’s set within a rescue centre and having worked myself within veterinary care, in a shelter, I loved all the references to the animals and fell in love with their characters too.
I laughed out loud at the mention of M&S snacks, having recently discovered some of these myself!
So all in all, this one made me smile, it made me laugh and it made me want to stock up on snacks! It’s witty, it has great characters, it’s fun, it’s a definite must read!
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August 30, 2024Felicity lleva 3 años sintiéndose culpable porque corrió de su casa a su novio después de ver mensajes con otra mujer ¿? No tiene sentido para mí, se supone que al descubrir lo que hizo el infiel, ella no le dejó explicarse, lo corrio y no volvió a hablarle, y eso la convierte en alguien como su papá, quien se fue un día y no volvió.
¿Qué fue esa tontería de la mejor amiga de Felicity con el infiel?? ¿Por qué Felicity siguió siendo amiga de Bex despues de enterarse que tuvo y sigue teniendo algo con el infiel???
James el interés amoroso parecía buena persona hasta que cuenta que estaba saliendo con alguien cuando iba a citas y se besaba con Felicity. Además la dejó (a Felicity) porque el ex (el infiel) le hablo y por el código de hombres decidió alejarse para que tuvieran su oportunidad, claro, porque lo que ella quiere no es importante y lo que vale es lo que el hombre quiere.
Este libro va de mal en peor.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
¿Qué fue esa tontería de la mejor amiga de Felicity con el infiel?? ¿Por qué Felicity siguió siendo amiga de Bex despues de enterarse que tuvo y sigue teniendo algo con el infiel???
James el interés amoroso parecía buena persona hasta que cuenta que estaba saliendo con alguien cuando iba a citas y se besaba con Felicity. Además la dejó (a Felicity) porque el ex (el infiel) le hablo y por el código de hombres decidió alejarse para que tuvieran su oportunidad, claro, porque lo que ella quiere no es importante y lo que vale es lo que el hombre quiere.
Este libro va de mal en peor.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 6, 2024
I loved reading The Night Before Christmas, I found it had really cute and cosy vibes as well as the banter making it a great rom-com. It started off really well and I loved how it all centred around a cat shelter. The characters Felicity and James were created really well and I loved how realistic they were, the issues they faced felt real and they handled it like adults, which I thought was refreshing. I really enjoyed how this novel played out, I felt the writing pulled you in and you got invested in the characters lives. I do have one niggle though, around the 80% mark of the novel, it took a turn and whilst it was intriguing I felt it counteracted the events previously between Adam and Felicity, like it rewrote what we'd read. I still don't understand that outcome especially since he was so persistent, anywho that aside, I really enjoyed The Night Before Christmas and recommend it to all, especially the cosiness, that penguin vibe, the cats and the cuteness between Felicity and James.
November 3, 2024
While the initial "meet-cute" between Felicity and James, a man in a penguin costume, was undeniably charming, the story quickly delved into heavier themes of heartbreak and trust issues.
Felicity's past experiences with Christmas and relationships cast a shadow over the holiday cheer. I found myself wishing for a lighter, more festive tone. While the exploration of deeper emotions is commendable, it didn't quite resonate with me.
The single POV narration might have benefited from a dual perspective to offer a more balanced understanding of both characters' inner worlds. Overall, The Night Before Christmas may appeal to readers seeking a more drama filled, slow burn holiday romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC of this book. I voluntarily listened and gave an honest review.
Felicity's past experiences with Christmas and relationships cast a shadow over the holiday cheer. I found myself wishing for a lighter, more festive tone. While the exploration of deeper emotions is commendable, it didn't quite resonate with me.
The single POV narration might have benefited from a dual perspective to offer a more balanced understanding of both characters' inner worlds. Overall, The Night Before Christmas may appeal to readers seeking a more drama filled, slow burn holiday romance.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ALC of this book. I voluntarily listened and gave an honest review.
September 21, 2024
This is a great heartwarming read, and I cannot believe it is the authors first. Excited to read more books by her.
Felicity works at an animal rescue centre, and hates Christmas so is happy to work Christmas eve. When a man dressed as a penguin arrived and say he has heard a kitten in some bushes, they rescue both the kitten and it's mother, and spend the night and next day hating Christmas together.
Throw in a couple of exes turning up at random times and the blossoming romance has it's challenges, but can it survive?
I loved the overall feeling of this book, the characters were really engaging and the plot moves along at a good pace.
This would be a perfect Christmas present for a romance fan.
Felicity works at an animal rescue centre, and hates Christmas so is happy to work Christmas eve. When a man dressed as a penguin arrived and say he has heard a kitten in some bushes, they rescue both the kitten and it's mother, and spend the night and next day hating Christmas together.
Throw in a couple of exes turning up at random times and the blossoming romance has it's challenges, but can it survive?
I loved the overall feeling of this book, the characters were really engaging and the plot moves along at a good pace.
This would be a perfect Christmas present for a romance fan.
October 30, 2024
This was such a cute read. I love Holiday books. I loved Felicity’s character even if she hates Christmas. I loved how Felicity and James both have a love for animals and the die hard movie. I love when characters can bond over things they enjoy in life. This book has big props from me because I am all about animals and being able to save them. ( I have rescued a few animals) it gives you a sense of peace and feeling like you did something good in the world. I couldn’t stand Felicity’s ex Adam. He just was so wrong for all the reasons. Definitely give this book a read, you won’t be disappointed.
September 24, 2024
Thank you for the opportunity to read and review this book 📚
This is the first book I've read by this author and it's a lovely Christmas book.
Felicity works in an animal shelter and Christmas eve penguin man brings in an abandoned kitten and they both go on the hunt for the mother.
Adam is Felicitys ex boyfriend and suddenly appears in her life again when things are starting to happen with penguin man but is Adam really coming back to Felicity for all the good reasons?
Follow Felicity through adventures with penguin man and Adam and her job at the Animal shelter
This is the first book I've read by this author and it's a lovely Christmas book.
Felicity works in an animal shelter and Christmas eve penguin man brings in an abandoned kitten and they both go on the hunt for the mother.
Adam is Felicitys ex boyfriend and suddenly appears in her life again when things are starting to happen with penguin man but is Adam really coming back to Felicity for all the good reasons?
Follow Felicity through adventures with penguin man and Adam and her job at the Animal shelter
October 15, 2024
I really enjoyed this cozy sweet holiday read. Definitely put me in the spirit!!! I was instantly grabbed by the introduction of a rescue kitten, a penguin, and a quirky love triangle. I stayed for the story. The character development you see in Felicity is so relatable. We love an FMC who participates in self-care and works hard to take care of her mental health. I also just loved the banter and sweetness of this book. It definitely put me in my feels. Highly recommend.
November 5, 2024
How to people that hate Christmas becomes Christmas-people.
I personally needed a little more Christmas, romance and spice. But if you all for the self-healing, cute and awkward moments, a bit of banter, lot's of drama and some tension - this might be for you ☃️
- self healing and growth
- drama and banter
- cute cat's
- closed door romance
- some Christmas
- adult relationship
A thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook ARC
I personally needed a little more Christmas, romance and spice. But if you all for the self-healing, cute and awkward moments, a bit of banter, lot's of drama and some tension - this might be for you ☃️
- self healing and growth
- drama and banter
- cute cat's
- closed door romance
- some Christmas
- adult relationship
A thanks to Netgalley for the audiobook ARC
September 15, 2024
Well, this is my first Christmas read of 2024 and it didn't disappoint.
This is the authors debut novel, and I really hope it won't be her last.
The book revolves around Felicity Brookes who hates Christmas for various reasons, and she works at an animal rescue.
It's very easy to read, and I absolutely flew through the first half of the book as it was very fast paced.
Half way through she took a trip which was a bit heavier going as it dealt with the reasons why the main character hated Christmas, which was harder to read.
Great read that I really enjoyed, and would highly recommend.
This is the authors debut novel, and I really hope it won't be her last.
The book revolves around Felicity Brookes who hates Christmas for various reasons, and she works at an animal rescue.
It's very easy to read, and I absolutely flew through the first half of the book as it was very fast paced.
Half way through she took a trip which was a bit heavier going as it dealt with the reasons why the main character hated Christmas, which was harder to read.
Great read that I really enjoyed, and would highly recommend.
September 26, 2024
Romance novels set at Christmas are always a winner in my eyes, but throw in an adorable meet-cute and lots of sweet animals; you know you've got something special.
I'm so surprised this is a debut novel, I thought it was written fantastically. In the acknowledgements, reference is made to the support of some well-known names, and it's easy to see the influence these people have had on the writing.
I loved seeing Felicity work on herself and acknowledge the issues she had.
The final line of the story - ahhh, I love it.
There's nothing I could criticise about this book. It's a lovely read, and I'm sure it will do brilliantly.
I'm so surprised this is a debut novel, I thought it was written fantastically. In the acknowledgements, reference is made to the support of some well-known names, and it's easy to see the influence these people have had on the writing.
I loved seeing Felicity work on herself and acknowledge the issues she had.
The final line of the story - ahhh, I love it.
There's nothing I could criticise about this book. It's a lovely read, and I'm sure it will do brilliantly.
September 29, 2024
This was such a sweet book. It was well written, and it was sort of lighthearted. It definitely kept me wanting to read (too bad work got in the way!). Any book that revolves around an animal shelter definitely has my heart, and a man that rescues animals?! Yup, that does it for me.
I enjoyed that these two were adults. What I mean is that they acted like adults, they handled things like adults – even hard conversations. I never once felt like either of them were immature. Yes, sometimes we adults jump to conclusions, especially when it comes to relationships and emotions, but I think this author handled this relationship well. They didn’t spend 24/7 together right away, which often so many books have their characters do this. These two took their time, but it never felt like a slow burn either.
There was also the situation with Adam, which is another situation that I thought was handled well. I loved that Felicity didn’t just fall back into old ways with Adam and that her eyes really opened as to what happened and what was happening. Though her friend Bex was kind of sketchy.
Overall, I think this was a great debut novel; romance book readers will enjoy this one!
I enjoyed that these two were adults. What I mean is that they acted like adults, they handled things like adults – even hard conversations. I never once felt like either of them were immature. Yes, sometimes we adults jump to conclusions, especially when it comes to relationships and emotions, but I think this author handled this relationship well. They didn’t spend 24/7 together right away, which often so many books have their characters do this. These two took their time, but it never felt like a slow burn either.
There was also the situation with Adam, which is another situation that I thought was handled well. I loved that Felicity didn’t just fall back into old ways with Adam and that her eyes really opened as to what happened and what was happening. Though her friend Bex was kind of sketchy.
Overall, I think this was a great debut novel; romance book readers will enjoy this one!
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