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A Very Gidi Christmas
320 pages, Paperback
Published October 28, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
December 20, 2025
I really enjoyed this one, it was so fun and sweet. Brb, gonna reread it!
October 7, 2025
2.75 ⭐️
I was really eager to read this book, but it fell a bit flat for me. The premise was strong, but the plot holes were hard to ignore, and the “contract” which seemed like it should’ve been central felt unnecessary.
That said, it was still a quick and easy read, and I’m curious to explore more of the author’s work.
I was really eager to read this book, but it fell a bit flat for me. The premise was strong, but the plot holes were hard to ignore, and the “contract” which seemed like it should’ve been central felt unnecessary.
That said, it was still a quick and easy read, and I’m curious to explore more of the author’s work.
May 4, 2025
4.5 stars
Such a fun read. Naija love story with a lot of pleasant scenes, a happy ending and laugh out moments
Billionaires romance ☑️
Second chance romance ☑️
Sibling rivalry ☑️
Family drama ☑️
It has everything that makes holiday romance lovely.
I recommend for lovers of African romance fiction.
Good job Tomilola!
Such a fun read. Naija love story with a lot of pleasant scenes, a happy ending and laugh out moments
Billionaires romance ☑️
Second chance romance ☑️
Sibling rivalry ☑️
Family drama ☑️
It has everything that makes holiday romance lovely.
I recommend for lovers of African romance fiction.
Good job Tomilola!
November 30, 2024
Tomilola Adeyemo has written a Christmas masterpiece. I enjoyed this thoroughly. I fell in love with both BG and Kunle and it was an absolute pleasure to read their second chance, romance blossom in the city of Lagos. If you were looking for something really sweet and easy and a little sultry holiday season this is definitely the book
December 20, 2024
Shared my thoughts here. https://www.instagram.com/p/DDw_fgRRS...
March 28, 2025
One thing I'll say is that Tomi never disappoints. Been following her works since 360nob days and this was an interesting read.
November 23, 2024
Hilarious, well-written and my favorite work of fiction this year (at least thus far).
April 20, 2025
This is such a beautiful romance book that is written with so much experience and I can tell that the author takes the romance genre very seriously because the taste is indeed in the pudding.
A girl can dream with hopes that these dreams become reality. Reconnecting with your ex in a boardroom meeting doesn’t seem exciting especially when you’ve spent the past 12 years running away from his betrayal and the hurt he caused you. Well, without divulging so much about the book, I just want to tell you that you won’t regret picking up this book.
At the backdrop of our FMC, Biodun and MMC, Kunle hashing out the events of their past lives, lies the struggle for power. Kunle has contenders for the position of CEO of a billion dollars company. Ruthless contenders who are not shy to play dirty when the need arises.
If you want to read a sweet African romance set in the crazy city of Lagos, here is just your cue 🤗🤗
Watch my review on YouTube here;
https://youtu.be/zHiLgJOSayI?si=NIOxC...
A girl can dream with hopes that these dreams become reality. Reconnecting with your ex in a boardroom meeting doesn’t seem exciting especially when you’ve spent the past 12 years running away from his betrayal and the hurt he caused you. Well, without divulging so much about the book, I just want to tell you that you won’t regret picking up this book.
At the backdrop of our FMC, Biodun and MMC, Kunle hashing out the events of their past lives, lies the struggle for power. Kunle has contenders for the position of CEO of a billion dollars company. Ruthless contenders who are not shy to play dirty when the need arises.
If you want to read a sweet African romance set in the crazy city of Lagos, here is just your cue 🤗🤗
Watch my review on YouTube here;
https://youtu.be/zHiLgJOSayI?si=NIOxC...
March 15, 2025
Let me start by saying—I binge-read this book from 8 PM to 3:32 AM! I simply couldn’t put it down. It was that good.
This story follows Kunle and Biodun, once young lovers whose relationship fell apart after an explicit video changed everything. Now, at the lowest point in Biodun’s life, Kunle reappears—this time as the COO of his mother’s company, which is set to acquire her workplace. Just when she thought the past was behind her, the video resurfaces, forcing them to face it together.
This book is such a ride. It’s got the heart of a romcom—funny, lighthearted, and effortlessly entertaining—yet serious moments weave in without ever feeling overwhelming. The writing? Sharp and engaging. The characters? So well-crafted, I couldn’t help but love them. And the spice? Perfect. I think I’m finally embracing my love for romance with a little heat!
If you’re a fan of second chances, a touch of marriage of convenience (if Kunle and Biodun insist), and family drama, this book is exactly what you need. Go read it!
This story follows Kunle and Biodun, once young lovers whose relationship fell apart after an explicit video changed everything. Now, at the lowest point in Biodun’s life, Kunle reappears—this time as the COO of his mother’s company, which is set to acquire her workplace. Just when she thought the past was behind her, the video resurfaces, forcing them to face it together.
This book is such a ride. It’s got the heart of a romcom—funny, lighthearted, and effortlessly entertaining—yet serious moments weave in without ever feeling overwhelming. The writing? Sharp and engaging. The characters? So well-crafted, I couldn’t help but love them. And the spice? Perfect. I think I’m finally embracing my love for romance with a little heat!
If you’re a fan of second chances, a touch of marriage of convenience (if Kunle and Biodun insist), and family drama, this book is exactly what you need. Go read it!
January 18, 2025
Very nice book if you're looking to read a light-hearted, cringy romance set in Lagos. Well-written intimate scenes. Weird pacing, things feel slow and then pick up the pace and then, bam! another dimension—it kept going on like that throughout the book.
Nice book overall.
Nice book overall.
May 12, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
I was going to rate it a ⭐️⭐️.5/5 but it’s her debut novel, and therefore, there’s room for lots of mistakes and improvements.
The novel had a lot of potential to be nicer than it was; the forced proximity, billionaire/damsel in distress and past lovers turned enemies trope was nice, but nahh, it didn’t hit the spot like I thought it would. It’s an R18 book, yes, but it didn’t feel like they wanted each other for anything except their bodies. I’m a sucker for chemistry that’s more than sex and wanting to have sex with each other. It didn’t feel like the main characters - Kunle and Biodun had that. Biodun saying she would use the year ahead of them to get to know Kunle, and shortly after, they are getting naked😭. Omo, I just shock.
Also, in my opinion, the writing technique didn’t fit the Nigerian style. It felt so Americanised, that even the Yoruba didn’t sound like it was being said by a Nigerian. Her description of the characters in the book didn’t give Nigerian. Another reason why I didn’t feel wowed by the book was that she made it feel like Nigeria wasn’t a third world country. Yes, I get it’s fiction, but some reality should be in it.This might also seem minute but who decides to “fly” to Ibadan? Is there even airport in Ibadan to begin with?💀Authors really need to start treating Nigeria as it is, not as a fictional country created in their mind.
The book also felt slow at the point I expected it to be fast and then too fast paced when it needed to be slow. It felt like after the “marriage contract” everything was just rushed and I wish that it wasn’t. Overrall, it was a good book and I’m looking forward to reading more books by this author.
I was going to rate it a ⭐️⭐️.5/5 but it’s her debut novel, and therefore, there’s room for lots of mistakes and improvements.
The novel had a lot of potential to be nicer than it was; the forced proximity, billionaire/damsel in distress and past lovers turned enemies trope was nice, but nahh, it didn’t hit the spot like I thought it would. It’s an R18 book, yes, but it didn’t feel like they wanted each other for anything except their bodies. I’m a sucker for chemistry that’s more than sex and wanting to have sex with each other. It didn’t feel like the main characters - Kunle and Biodun had that. Biodun saying she would use the year ahead of them to get to know Kunle, and shortly after, they are getting naked😭. Omo, I just shock.
Also, in my opinion, the writing technique didn’t fit the Nigerian style. It felt so Americanised, that even the Yoruba didn’t sound like it was being said by a Nigerian. Her description of the characters in the book didn’t give Nigerian. Another reason why I didn’t feel wowed by the book was that she made it feel like Nigeria wasn’t a third world country. Yes, I get it’s fiction, but some reality should be in it.This might also seem minute but who decides to “fly” to Ibadan? Is there even airport in Ibadan to begin with?💀Authors really need to start treating Nigeria as it is, not as a fictional country created in their mind.
The book also felt slow at the point I expected it to be fast and then too fast paced when it needed to be slow. It felt like after the “marriage contract” everything was just rushed and I wish that it wasn’t. Overrall, it was a good book and I’m looking forward to reading more books by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 5, 2025
This story follows a former couple; a business mogul and struggling radio personality, who are forced to work together after a scandal resurfaces from their shared past.
I enjoyed this book. There was never a boring moment. It was fast paced. The writing was great, in short, that's the best part of the book. The main characters were likeable and interesting, and the side characters were multidimensionaI.
I just wish I did not expect a romcom. I think this is where it failed me - it failed to deliver the promise of a rom-com or feel good story. It explored a heavy topic that contrasted with the supposedly light nature of the book. And I don't think that heavy topic was well explored or resolved.
Also, this story is supposed to be a second chance romance, with a fake dating/contract marriage premise. The reason for the fake engagement was logical however the reason for the contract marriage did not make sense at times. The second chance romance was under explored because I did not see why they loved each other so much, and I did not really see the process of them trusting each other and falling for each other again. In short, I think the romance aspect was treated lazily.
Maybe it was just my expectations that slightly dulled my experience, but if I had read this book expecting drama with a hint of romance, I would have been more satisfied.
Overall, I liked this book, I really enjoyed the author's writing and I look forward to reading her other books. Fingers crossed, it's about the male character's lawyer friend and the shady politician's son.
I enjoyed this book. There was never a boring moment. It was fast paced. The writing was great, in short, that's the best part of the book. The main characters were likeable and interesting, and the side characters were multidimensionaI.
I just wish I did not expect a romcom. I think this is where it failed me - it failed to deliver the promise of a rom-com or feel good story. It explored a heavy topic that contrasted with the supposedly light nature of the book. And I don't think that heavy topic was well explored or resolved.
Also, this story is supposed to be a second chance romance, with a fake dating/contract marriage premise. The reason for the fake engagement was logical however the reason for the contract marriage did not make sense at times. The second chance romance was under explored because I did not see why they loved each other so much, and I did not really see the process of them trusting each other and falling for each other again. In short, I think the romance aspect was treated lazily.
Maybe it was just my expectations that slightly dulled my experience, but if I had read this book expecting drama with a hint of romance, I would have been more satisfied.
Overall, I liked this book, I really enjoyed the author's writing and I look forward to reading her other books. Fingers crossed, it's about the male character's lawyer friend and the shady politician's son.
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May 30, 2025i picked up this book because i’m still obsessed with one of the author’s previous works, and i just needed to see what this one would give. and i promise you, it did not disappoint.
this story is intense in all the right ways. the plot never loses momentum, and every twist is purposeful. nothing feels random or out of place; it’s dramatic but never unrealistic. and what makes it even better? it’s funny. genuinely funny.
i genuinely love how the author weaves everything together with so much cohesion. it’s one of those books where every chapter leaves you wanting more, and not once did i feel like i hit a dull point. just continuous, compelling, and entertaining storytelling.
i’m someone who thrives on drama in fiction—it keeps me going—and this book delivered that from start to finish. the pacing was tight, the emotions layered, the humor perfectly timed, and the stakes always felt real. i stayed hooked the entire time and honestly didn’t want it to end.
i really admire this author’s writing. she knows how to grip a reader, and i truly hope her work reaches more people because the quality is undeniable. i’m now just sitting here, lowkey hoping she drops something new tomorrow, because i’m ready.
this story is intense in all the right ways. the plot never loses momentum, and every twist is purposeful. nothing feels random or out of place; it’s dramatic but never unrealistic. and what makes it even better? it’s funny. genuinely funny.
i genuinely love how the author weaves everything together with so much cohesion. it’s one of those books where every chapter leaves you wanting more, and not once did i feel like i hit a dull point. just continuous, compelling, and entertaining storytelling.
i’m someone who thrives on drama in fiction—it keeps me going—and this book delivered that from start to finish. the pacing was tight, the emotions layered, the humor perfectly timed, and the stakes always felt real. i stayed hooked the entire time and honestly didn’t want it to end.
i really admire this author’s writing. she knows how to grip a reader, and i truly hope her work reaches more people because the quality is undeniable. i’m now just sitting here, lowkey hoping she drops something new tomorrow, because i’m ready.
April 22, 2026
Christmas, office romance, second chances, forced proximity… this book had everything I should love—but something just didn’t click.
Biodun and Kunle are ex-lovers who were torn apart by an unfortunate incident, and years later, they meet again under very different circumstances, setting the stage for the office romance the book was marketed for.
But I’ll be honest—the fake marriage (forced proximity) really threw me off. It made the story feel unrealistic, and instead of properly exploring the office romance, the book leaned heavily into the marriage plot.
Even the Nigerian Christmas vibe wasn’t really explored. It was mostly just mentioned here and there with date stamps rather than something you could actually feel in the story.
Omo… I didn’t sign up for this abeg 😅
That said, the writing was okay. The dual POV from Biodun and Kunle added some depth and made the story a bit more interesting. I also liked the drama with Kunle’s brothers and his crush—it added tension, which is something I’m always looking forward to while reading.
Overall, it's a good idea but not the best execution. 3 ⭐ — came for the romance, stayed for the small drama.
Biodun and Kunle are ex-lovers who were torn apart by an unfortunate incident, and years later, they meet again under very different circumstances, setting the stage for the office romance the book was marketed for.
But I’ll be honest—the fake marriage (forced proximity) really threw me off. It made the story feel unrealistic, and instead of properly exploring the office romance, the book leaned heavily into the marriage plot.
Even the Nigerian Christmas vibe wasn’t really explored. It was mostly just mentioned here and there with date stamps rather than something you could actually feel in the story.
Omo… I didn’t sign up for this abeg 😅
That said, the writing was okay. The dual POV from Biodun and Kunle added some depth and made the story a bit more interesting. I also liked the drama with Kunle’s brothers and his crush—it added tension, which is something I’m always looking forward to while reading.
Overall, it's a good idea but not the best execution. 3 ⭐ — came for the romance, stayed for the small drama.
March 17, 2026
I devoured this book less than 24 hours and trust me, it’s soooo good, I honestly can’t believe I waited so long to read it. Biodun and Kunle’s story is so real and engaging, a very interesting second-chance romance story that had me in my feelings.
Two exes unexpectedly running into each other in a boardroom after the pains and scars of the past that they both flew away from. The tension, and the chemistry between these two characters was so intense despite what had happen before.
This book beautifully blends the chaos of Lagos City and Nigerian cultures with themes of healing, love, communication, compromises and lots of sweet romance. Biodun and Kunle together are such a perfect match, they had their own flaws but their contrast together blends so perfectly.
The writing style was really engaging, and the pacing was well executed, and the romance had me blushing the whole time. And this story gave off a little of “Marriage of Convenience” vibe and I love it😩
This is my first time reading any book by this author and it didn’t disappoint🥂😍 A solid 4.5⭐️
Two exes unexpectedly running into each other in a boardroom after the pains and scars of the past that they both flew away from. The tension, and the chemistry between these two characters was so intense despite what had happen before.
This book beautifully blends the chaos of Lagos City and Nigerian cultures with themes of healing, love, communication, compromises and lots of sweet romance. Biodun and Kunle together are such a perfect match, they had their own flaws but their contrast together blends so perfectly.
The writing style was really engaging, and the pacing was well executed, and the romance had me blushing the whole time. And this story gave off a little of “Marriage of Convenience” vibe and I love it😩
This is my first time reading any book by this author and it didn’t disappoint🥂😍 A solid 4.5⭐️
March 20, 2026
The book offers an engaging narrative with vivid descriptions that effortlessly guide the reader through its pages. The initial chapters are particularly captivating, drawing readers into the story with their compelling plot and intricate details. However, the narrative momentum seems to wane towards the conclusion, giving an impression of being hastily wrapped up. The concept of a contract marriage appears somewhat superfluous, and the author might have more effectively framed it as a contract engagement. Despite these minor critiques, the novel stands as an impressive debut work. Its accessible writing style and heartwarming Christmas atmosphere make it an excellent recommendation for readers seeking a light, festive literary experience. The author's potential is evident, and the book promises an enjoyable reading journey for those looking for a charming, easy-to-digest story with seasonal warmth.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 13, 2025
Biodun’s life is a mess—dodging landlords, crushing on coworker Andrew, and facing job loss from a merger. Her prophet’s words about finding a husband at work feel like a joke until her ex, Kunle, a reformed “Yoruba demon,” reappears to lead a project. A leaked sex tape from their past sparks social media chaos, forcing Biodun to face old heartbreak while hosting her show. Kunle, now running the family biz after his mum’s cardiac scare, claims innocence and proposes a fake engagement that turns real. Meanwhile, Kunle’s brother Teslim and his scheming fiancée Nkem, who’s always hated Biodun, stir trouble over old family grudges. With friends Timi, Alex, and Malik by her side, Biodun fights enemies and undeniable chemistry. This book had me smiling like I won the lottery—pure Naija holiday magic!
May 30, 2025
I really enjoyed A Very Gidi Christmas! It’s the perfect mix of humour, romance, and heart. The story follows Kunle and Biodun, two exes forced to reconnect years after a scandal tore them apart. Now older (and maybe wiser), they have to face their past and figure out if love still has a chance.
The writing is smooth and super engaging. I found myself laughing, blushing, and rooting for these two the whole time. The characters were well written, and the themes of shame, second chances, and self-worth were handled with care.
Also, if you enjoy a bit of spice and well-placed drama, marriage of convenience, second-chance romance, you’ll love this one!
I’m now officially a Tomilola Coco fan. More, please!
The writing is smooth and super engaging. I found myself laughing, blushing, and rooting for these two the whole time. The characters were well written, and the themes of shame, second chances, and self-worth were handled with care.
Also, if you enjoy a bit of spice and well-placed drama, marriage of convenience, second-chance romance, you’ll love this one!
I’m now officially a Tomilola Coco fan. More, please!
December 21, 2025
This book? Easily a 5 star read for me!
A very gidi Christmas reminded me how much of a lover girl I am! I loved every bit of it.
First off, Tomilola Coco’s writing is Teaaaa! She writes so well, in a way that you can just relate! I love how every part of the story was developed.
The family background, was well written, and there was no part that felt like a drag or a hanger. I love have she brought everything together!
This book made me smile so much, I also think that the writing style can make a Nigerian movie. The level of relatability, the language was easy, it was well paced. I also really like the tension with the company, how the book followed through with the work drama, it felt like I was watching those K-drama series with conglomerates and inheritance.
I really enjoyed reading this book!
A very gidi Christmas reminded me how much of a lover girl I am! I loved every bit of it.
First off, Tomilola Coco’s writing is Teaaaa! She writes so well, in a way that you can just relate! I love how every part of the story was developed.
The family background, was well written, and there was no part that felt like a drag or a hanger. I love have she brought everything together!
This book made me smile so much, I also think that the writing style can make a Nigerian movie. The level of relatability, the language was easy, it was well paced. I also really like the tension with the company, how the book followed through with the work drama, it felt like I was watching those K-drama series with conglomerates and inheritance.
I really enjoyed reading this book!
December 24, 2025
I think a lot of romance books fail to capture love in its true essence. Too often, they equate love with sex. In many of these stories, the defining moment, what convinces one or both characters that they’re in love, is sex or some form of sexual activity, which is something I personally struggle with.
That said, the book itself is good. It’s an easy, almost “cheap” read in the sense that it has all the usual elements of a romance novel. It’s fun, easy to get through, filled with drama, and has a solid plot. Overall, it’s an enjoyable story.
P.S. If anyone has recommendations for romance books that explore love in its entirety, beyond the usual sex-driven interactions, please hook me up.
That said, the book itself is good. It’s an easy, almost “cheap” read in the sense that it has all the usual elements of a romance novel. It’s fun, easy to get through, filled with drama, and has a solid plot. Overall, it’s an enjoyable story.
P.S. If anyone has recommendations for romance books that explore love in its entirety, beyond the usual sex-driven interactions, please hook me up.
January 5, 2026
A Very Gidi Christmas is a second-chance romance set in Lagos during the Christmas season. It follows emotionally mature characters dealing with career pressure, past hurt, and the possibility of love resurfacing at an unexpected time.
The writing is warm and engaging, with strong cultural grounding. The Lagos setting feels authentic, and the Christmas atmosphere adds charm without dominating the narrative. The romance develops at a believable pace, allowing the characters space to grow and communicate.
This is a comforting, culturally rich romance that balances festive vibes with emotional depth. Recommended for readers who enjoy realistic love stories and Nigerian settings.
The writing is warm and engaging, with strong cultural grounding. The Lagos setting feels authentic, and the Christmas atmosphere adds charm without dominating the narrative. The romance develops at a believable pace, allowing the characters space to grow and communicate.
This is a comforting, culturally rich romance that balances festive vibes with emotional depth. Recommended for readers who enjoy realistic love stories and Nigerian settings.
December 13, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed A Very Gidi Christmas! It’s not often you find Nigerian authors who strike the perfect balance in a romcom, but Tomilola Coco Adeyemi absolutely nailed it. This book combines laugh-out-loud moments with heartfelt romance, all tied together with a well-executed plot.
Her writing style? Impeccable. The prose is smooth, the dialogue engaging, and it’s all so easy to immerse yourself in. This is the kind of book that reminds you how fun and refreshing a good romcom can be. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a light yet meaningful read this season!
Her writing style? Impeccable. The prose is smooth, the dialogue engaging, and it’s all so easy to immerse yourself in. This is the kind of book that reminds you how fun and refreshing a good romcom can be. Highly recommend if you’re looking for a light yet meaningful read this season!
December 23, 2024
As good as Nigerian romance fiction goes this is definitely the new bar. I loved both the MC and forgave the villains. This was so well written and every plot ended beautifully. My only side eye moment was how forgiving her mum was to him but its fictions and that’s what we dream of Nigerian mothers. A Christmas miracle
May 9, 2025
Honestly it was a good effort but all the cliches were packed in one book. Maybe it’s just not my style. The writing was also just okay. Nigeria does not have a lot of romance authors so I will say this is a valiant effort. I look forward to hearing more from this author, I believe she has a lot more to say…I will definitely be reading her next book.
January 27, 2026
This was such a dramatic read😂😂. You think your Christmas was uneventful? Wait till your sextape gets released, your landlord on your neck cus you haven’t paid rent and your ex of 12 years resurfaces.
I enjoyed every bit of this book. I am really happy I read this on Christmas Day. Like I say and always say “can biodun have a normal Christmas like everyone else??
I enjoyed every bit of this book. I am really happy I read this on Christmas Day. Like I say and always say “can biodun have a normal Christmas like everyone else??
April 21, 2026
An easy breezy read. Childhood lovers become enemies then later in life, reconnect based off of a digital crisis - the reoccurrence of a past issue. Signed a contract to act married till the issue blows over but realise they still have feelings for each other.
Love. Family drama. Sabotage. Frenemies.
Love. Family drama. Sabotage. Frenemies.
December 29, 2025
This was a beautiful romance book and I had such a good time reading it. Felt like a lovely romcom and it made me giggle from time to time. The drama and everything really made me happy and it was truly a good book. Looking forward to more books definitely.
January 23, 2026
Such a fantastic, easy read! I was hooked from the jump! Tomilola has such a beautiful writing style, I really enjoy this. Genuinely felt like I was watching a tv series! I could’ve read this in one sitting but I dragged it because I loved it so much - didn’t want it to end😭
March 2, 2026
It was very cutesy. I really enjoyed the lightheartedness of it and we LOVE a lovers to enemies back to lovers trope where the offender didn't actually do anything unforgivable and the rekindling actually makes sense!!!!! But I will say, there were a couple plot holes.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews