What do you think?
Rate this book
Pineridge #1
Eight Days of Christmas: A Small Town Second Chance Romance
Holiday magic? Check.
Swoon worthy romance? Check.
Complications of epic proportions? Check.
Ready or not, Isabella Whitley is returning to her snowy hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s Christmas wedding. She wants in and out unscathed. Unlikely. A decade ago, she headed to New York and hasn’t looked back. Now she must explain her disappearing act to not only her family, but the high-school sweetheart she left behind as well.
Enter Leo Hoffman. He’s frosty after striving—and failing—to forget Isabella, the only woman capable of jingling his bells. Since his brother is marrying her sister, Leo is forced to celebrate Eight Days of Christmas with Isabella and her family—a tradition where they perform a different holiday activity each day leading up to December 25th.
Soon, their close proximity brings back memories—and the inability to keep their hands off one another. There’s only one problem. Isabella’s ex unexpectedly enters the equation, and she faces a difficult choice. Listen to her heart or her head? Isabella will need to decide, once and for all, where she belongs.
Perfect for fans of IN A HOLIDAZE by Christina Lauren and SWEET HOME ALABAMA! This small town, second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance will have you laughing, swooning, and reminiscing of first loves.
Swoon worthy romance? Check.
Complications of epic proportions? Check.
Ready or not, Isabella Whitley is returning to her snowy hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s Christmas wedding. She wants in and out unscathed. Unlikely. A decade ago, she headed to New York and hasn’t looked back. Now she must explain her disappearing act to not only her family, but the high-school sweetheart she left behind as well.
Enter Leo Hoffman. He’s frosty after striving—and failing—to forget Isabella, the only woman capable of jingling his bells. Since his brother is marrying her sister, Leo is forced to celebrate Eight Days of Christmas with Isabella and her family—a tradition where they perform a different holiday activity each day leading up to December 25th.
Soon, their close proximity brings back memories—and the inability to keep their hands off one another. There’s only one problem. Isabella’s ex unexpectedly enters the equation, and she faces a difficult choice. Listen to her heart or her head? Isabella will need to decide, once and for all, where she belongs.
Perfect for fans of IN A HOLIDAZE by Christina Lauren and SWEET HOME ALABAMA! This small town, second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance will have you laughing, swooning, and reminiscing of first loves.
354 pages, Paperback
First published October 19, 2021
20 people are currently reading
1237 people want to read
About the author
Starla DeKruyf
8 books88 followersStarla DeKruyf is a romance author of sweet stories with a dash of spice that always end in happily ever afters. She writes books that play like movies in your head about characters you wish you could hang out with. Follow her on her socials so you can have fun and be awkward together! When Starla isn’t writing, she’s probably drinking coffee and spending time with her husband, kids, and her rescue pup.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews
December 28, 2021
I loved this book! What a perfect Christmas rom com! Just the right amount of rom and com in my opinion!
What did I love?
Second chance!! Oh yes please!! When Isabella makes her dreams come true...well she goes big!! Leaving her small town of Pineridge...she lands herself a job with The New Yorker! Bye Bye Pineridge! You go girl!
Okay so when a books starts out with....Isablelle knew her boyfriend Harrison wanted a break...she just wasn't sure if it was like a Ross and Rachel type of break...SOLD!!! I was thinking..ohhh this is my kind of book...and it was!!
10 years later...yes 10! She goes back home for Christmas...it's ackward...Especially since she left her BF Leo with NO explanation! Poor Leo...
So...guess who she runs into?! I am pretty sure you can guess!
I LOVED this family! Isabella's family- The Whitleys are all about Christmas!! For eight days leading up to Christmas they have a different holiday activity.
Cute, fun banter,l I was all in! The best news?! This is the first in a series! Thank you Susan for buddy reading this with me!!!
What did I love?
Second chance!! Oh yes please!! When Isabella makes her dreams come true...well she goes big!! Leaving her small town of Pineridge...she lands herself a job with The New Yorker! Bye Bye Pineridge! You go girl!
Okay so when a books starts out with....Isablelle knew her boyfriend Harrison wanted a break...she just wasn't sure if it was like a Ross and Rachel type of break...SOLD!!! I was thinking..ohhh this is my kind of book...and it was!!
10 years later...yes 10! She goes back home for Christmas...it's ackward...Especially since she left her BF Leo with NO explanation! Poor Leo...
So...guess who she runs into?! I am pretty sure you can guess!
I LOVED this family! Isabella's family- The Whitleys are all about Christmas!! For eight days leading up to Christmas they have a different holiday activity.
Cute, fun banter,l I was all in! The best news?! This is the first in a series! Thank you Susan for buddy reading this with me!!!
February 14, 2024
I really enjoyed this Christmas rom com with a second chance romance.🎅🎄❄
Isabella hasn’t been back to her hometown of Pine Ridge, Colorado in ten years, not since she decided to leave for New York to go to college and start her career, leaving her boyfriend, Leo, behind. When she’s stranded in the airport on the way to her sister’s wedding (because of course her sister Norah is marrying Leo’s brother), Leo is also stranded and they agree to share a car to drive the remaining 600 miles back home through a snowstorm in time to attend Izzy’s family’s “eight days of Christmas” celebrations that she’s missed for the past decade. I really enjoyed the different take this put on a Christmas tale. In addition to the smorgasbord of Christmas activities where I couldn’t get enough of cookie decorating 🍪and snowman building competitions ⛄(though karaoke night was a personal fave), there was also the compelling, angsty issue of Leo and Izzy’s breakup from ten years ago and the pain they’d both been in since then. I love a story with LOTS of drama and this one had it in spades.
Isabella hasn’t been back to her hometown of Pine Ridge, Colorado in ten years, not since she decided to leave for New York to go to college and start her career, leaving her boyfriend, Leo, behind. When she’s stranded in the airport on the way to her sister’s wedding (because of course her sister Norah is marrying Leo’s brother), Leo is also stranded and they agree to share a car to drive the remaining 600 miles back home through a snowstorm in time to attend Izzy’s family’s “eight days of Christmas” celebrations that she’s missed for the past decade. I really enjoyed the different take this put on a Christmas tale. In addition to the smorgasbord of Christmas activities where I couldn’t get enough of cookie decorating 🍪and snowman building competitions ⛄(though karaoke night was a personal fave), there was also the compelling, angsty issue of Leo and Izzy’s breakup from ten years ago and the pain they’d both been in since then. I love a story with LOTS of drama and this one had it in spades.
November 3, 2021
Also available on the WondrousBooks blog.
Okay, I'm not 100% sure, but I am pretty sure that this is my only 1-star review for 2021.
What the hell?
I've been catching up on romance novels lately and what's better than a Christmas romance, to get me in the mood for the holidays?
I wish I hadn't requested this book on NetGalley. I really do. It made me actually mad - mad enough that I had to take breaks to calm myself. Irrationally mad? Maybe...
Fact #1: The writing was very stilted and sloppy. No body talks like that. Quote: "I want to kiss your face off, Leo Hoffman." Please don't.
Fact #2: The characters were awful. Horrible. The two main couples made me gag. At times, quite literally.
Fact #3: There were so many "WTF" moments, that I'm just going to continue with those, to illustrate my feelings toward this book.
1. Isabella: from the very first second, highly unlikable. The second scene we see her in, she's pulling a Karen on a guy at the airport because a snow storm caused her flight to be rerouted and the guy told her she'll have to fly on the next day at the earliest. Yeah, Isabella, by all means, force the guy to stop the snow, you got it!
2. "Izzy" calls a voice from the queue where she's doing her Karen, and she's like "Oh noes, that can only be the love of my life, no one but him and my family calls me Izzy". Bitch, literally everyone, except for your New York boyfriend, calls you Izzy.
3. Isabella has not been back to Colorado in 10 years - she hates herself for it, Leo, her high school ex and the abovementioned "love of her life" hates her for it, her family hates her for it. Everyone feels distraught that she left them and made a life for herself and became a writer for The New Yorker (how that girl would work in The New Yorker, I have no idea at all). I haven't been back to my home country in several years and I challenge the person who's going to make me feel like trash for staying somewhere else where I'm more comfortable. Her family is just seriously awful about it, they constantly tease her, make mean comments about her, and they all find it hilarious to see how sad and hurt she gets. I really hate the idea of these super toxic families where you are not allowed to be your own person because you have a duty to be a part of your family and you constantly owe them your time and attention. How 'bout you all back off? Or go die, I don't care.
4. Norah and Landon - respectively Isabella's sister and Leo's brother = THE WORST. Isabella is going home for the first time in a decade to be her little sister's maid of honor. Her little sister is marrying Isabella's ex, Leo's little brother. Norah is so very meddlesome, constantly trying to put Isabella and Leo in super uncomfortable situations "to get them together". Man, if I had to see some ex of mine and someone was trying to force something to happen, my blood would boil. But what's worse is that Norah and Landon have the most codependent relationship I've seen - in real life or in media. Isabella confides personal things in Norah, who, after swearing she won't tell anyone, immediately goes to tattle to Landon and then her lame excuse is "we don't keep anything from each other". First of all, WTF? Second of all... WTF, it's your sister. They are also so attached to each other, that when Isabella organizes a bachelorette party for Norah, Norah asks Landon to come with his friends to the same bar to have their party there as well, because "We don't do things like that without the other." - ????????????????? You don't have bachelorette parties apart? You can't have fun for one night apart? More so, you can't have fun apart because the reason for this particular fun is exactly to be apart for just one night? And what's more, Norah's like "Chill, Isabella, they'll sit in the opposite corner of the bar and we'll have our parties separately", and then 3 sentences later, she's sitting in Landon's lap. So, WTF.
5. Isabella and Leo: I don't even know where to start with this one. Each and every one of their interactions is annoyingly formulaic - they start by being rude with each other, then he says something too mean, she gets all teary, he's like "damn, she bit her lip, she's so hot", or "damn, that ass", so he forces half a smile, to which her response is "I missed seeing him smile", then they make out and then they're like "Nope." Sometimes Leo goes:
...because she refuses to tell him why she dumped him by not coming home for Christmas. To which she responds with "I can't tell you!!!!!!!!!". /End of scene
The reality is that she did come for Christmas that one time after graduation *GASP* and Leo's mom told her that she won't allow Leo to move to New York to be with Isabella, so Isabella went to New York alone and never came back. I mean, it must have been real love if your boyfriend's mom telling you "No" is enough to dump him. And additionally, Leo is so butthurt that she never came to see him, but guess what, he NEVER thought to go see her in New York. His explanation: "Because he always knew his home was Pineridge". That is why. That is it. He never set foot in New York, because apparently if you go to another city, you immediately change your home address to that city.
6. This whole scene where Isabella finally tells Leo that she dumped him because of his mom happens during the aforementioned bachelorette party, after which Leo is super upset and he just drives off and goes to his home in the mountains. He has no contact with anyone and it all happens in the span of however long the drive from the bar to his house is. Then suddenly his dad shows up in his house - it's obvious that it's out of nowhere, because Leo starts explaining why he's there and that it was a sudden decision. His dad is like "I figured" - how? How exactly? Your son goes out to a bar with his brother and you just know that he left suddenly and went to his house? And okay, even if Landon told him Leo left, what happens next is even more ridiculous - the dad's like "Isabella is telling you the truth, she did come back here". And I'm like WHAT THE HELL. How did his dad know that Leo and Isabella just had this conversation like 15 minutes ago or something??? He didn't. That's how. I hoped and prayed that there will be an explanation, that maybe Isabella called him, but Leo then tells Isabella that he spoke with his dad and she knows nothing about it. So, no one knew that that conversation took place. No one called the dad. But the dad knew to go confirm that the conversation was based on truth. I'm guessing either just bad writing, or the dad was working for the FBI.
7. The wedding day: Norah and Landon are getting married. Landon gets super drunk before the wedding and starts badmouthing Norah's skills in bed and how shitty her family is, in front of his brother. He even says so to Isabella, ya know, Norah's sister. An hour later, he's somewhat upright, standing at the alter and his brother's like "I'm so proud of you!" - tell me, please tell me, about which part exactly are you so proud? That he's getting married to a girl who has issues with and whose family he dislikes? That he's getting married to that girl about an hour or two after he was saying all of these things about her behind her back? Yeah, husband-to-be of the year. Jesus.
I will finish here. This is not nitpicking, just everything that was immediately wrong.
I thought to myself, am I taking this too seriously? I mean, it is just a romance novel, Dostoyevsky has not dropped the sequel to Crime and Punishment. But then I remembered that not 2 days ago I finished a romance novel that was sooo good that I read 300 pages of it in one sitting, and it was funny and charming and touching and it had an amazing build-up, incredible chemistry and good writing. And I realized that the genre does not make the book, the author does.
Okay, I'm not 100% sure, but I am pretty sure that this is my only 1-star review for 2021.
*** MAJOR SPOILERS FROM HERE DOWN ***
What the hell?
I've been catching up on romance novels lately and what's better than a Christmas romance, to get me in the mood for the holidays?
I wish I hadn't requested this book on NetGalley. I really do. It made me actually mad - mad enough that I had to take breaks to calm myself. Irrationally mad? Maybe...
Fact #1: The writing was very stilted and sloppy. No body talks like that. Quote: "I want to kiss your face off, Leo Hoffman." Please don't.
Fact #2: The characters were awful. Horrible. The two main couples made me gag. At times, quite literally.
Fact #3: There were so many "WTF" moments, that I'm just going to continue with those, to illustrate my feelings toward this book.
~ W T F ~
1. Isabella: from the very first second, highly unlikable. The second scene we see her in, she's pulling a Karen on a guy at the airport because a snow storm caused her flight to be rerouted and the guy told her she'll have to fly on the next day at the earliest. Yeah, Isabella, by all means, force the guy to stop the snow, you got it!
2. "Izzy" calls a voice from the queue where she's doing her Karen, and she's like "Oh noes, that can only be the love of my life, no one but him and my family calls me Izzy". Bitch, literally everyone, except for your New York boyfriend, calls you Izzy.
3. Isabella has not been back to Colorado in 10 years - she hates herself for it, Leo, her high school ex and the abovementioned "love of her life" hates her for it, her family hates her for it. Everyone feels distraught that she left them and made a life for herself and became a writer for The New Yorker (how that girl would work in The New Yorker, I have no idea at all). I haven't been back to my home country in several years and I challenge the person who's going to make me feel like trash for staying somewhere else where I'm more comfortable. Her family is just seriously awful about it, they constantly tease her, make mean comments about her, and they all find it hilarious to see how sad and hurt she gets. I really hate the idea of these super toxic families where you are not allowed to be your own person because you have a duty to be a part of your family and you constantly owe them your time and attention. How 'bout you all back off? Or go die, I don't care.
4. Norah and Landon - respectively Isabella's sister and Leo's brother = THE WORST. Isabella is going home for the first time in a decade to be her little sister's maid of honor. Her little sister is marrying Isabella's ex, Leo's little brother. Norah is so very meddlesome, constantly trying to put Isabella and Leo in super uncomfortable situations "to get them together". Man, if I had to see some ex of mine and someone was trying to force something to happen, my blood would boil. But what's worse is that Norah and Landon have the most codependent relationship I've seen - in real life or in media. Isabella confides personal things in Norah, who, after swearing she won't tell anyone, immediately goes to tattle to Landon and then her lame excuse is "we don't keep anything from each other". First of all, WTF? Second of all... WTF, it's your sister. They are also so attached to each other, that when Isabella organizes a bachelorette party for Norah, Norah asks Landon to come with his friends to the same bar to have their party there as well, because "We don't do things like that without the other." - ????????????????? You don't have bachelorette parties apart? You can't have fun for one night apart? More so, you can't have fun apart because the reason for this particular fun is exactly to be apart for just one night? And what's more, Norah's like "Chill, Isabella, they'll sit in the opposite corner of the bar and we'll have our parties separately", and then 3 sentences later, she's sitting in Landon's lap. So, WTF.
5. Isabella and Leo: I don't even know where to start with this one. Each and every one of their interactions is annoyingly formulaic - they start by being rude with each other, then he says something too mean, she gets all teary, he's like "damn, she bit her lip, she's so hot", or "damn, that ass", so he forces half a smile, to which her response is "I missed seeing him smile", then they make out and then they're like "Nope." Sometimes Leo goes:
...because she refuses to tell him why she dumped him by not coming home for Christmas. To which she responds with "I can't tell you!!!!!!!!!". /End of scene
The reality is that she did come for Christmas that one time after graduation *GASP* and Leo's mom told her that she won't allow Leo to move to New York to be with Isabella, so Isabella went to New York alone and never came back. I mean, it must have been real love if your boyfriend's mom telling you "No" is enough to dump him. And additionally, Leo is so butthurt that she never came to see him, but guess what, he NEVER thought to go see her in New York. His explanation: "Because he always knew his home was Pineridge". That is why. That is it. He never set foot in New York, because apparently if you go to another city, you immediately change your home address to that city.
6. This whole scene where Isabella finally tells Leo that she dumped him because of his mom happens during the aforementioned bachelorette party, after which Leo is super upset and he just drives off and goes to his home in the mountains. He has no contact with anyone and it all happens in the span of however long the drive from the bar to his house is. Then suddenly his dad shows up in his house - it's obvious that it's out of nowhere, because Leo starts explaining why he's there and that it was a sudden decision. His dad is like "I figured" - how? How exactly? Your son goes out to a bar with his brother and you just know that he left suddenly and went to his house? And okay, even if Landon told him Leo left, what happens next is even more ridiculous - the dad's like "Isabella is telling you the truth, she did come back here". And I'm like WHAT THE HELL. How did his dad know that Leo and Isabella just had this conversation like 15 minutes ago or something??? He didn't. That's how. I hoped and prayed that there will be an explanation, that maybe Isabella called him, but Leo then tells Isabella that he spoke with his dad and she knows nothing about it. So, no one knew that that conversation took place. No one called the dad. But the dad knew to go confirm that the conversation was based on truth. I'm guessing either just bad writing, or the dad was working for the FBI.
7. The wedding day: Norah and Landon are getting married. Landon gets super drunk before the wedding and starts badmouthing Norah's skills in bed and how shitty her family is, in front of his brother. He even says so to Isabella, ya know, Norah's sister. An hour later, he's somewhat upright, standing at the alter and his brother's like "I'm so proud of you!" - tell me, please tell me, about which part exactly are you so proud? That he's getting married to a girl who has issues with and whose family he dislikes? That he's getting married to that girl about an hour or two after he was saying all of these things about her behind her back? Yeah, husband-to-be of the year. Jesus.
I will finish here. This is not nitpicking, just everything that was immediately wrong.
I thought to myself, am I taking this too seriously? I mean, it is just a romance novel, Dostoyevsky has not dropped the sequel to Crime and Punishment. But then I remembered that not 2 days ago I finished a romance novel that was sooo good that I read 300 pages of it in one sitting, and it was funny and charming and touching and it had an amazing build-up, incredible chemistry and good writing. And I realized that the genre does not make the book, the author does.
December 20, 2021
I absolutely adored this book! It was a solid 5 star read until the abrupt ending. I'll be looking forward to the next book. I can't wait to see what happens next.
June 10, 2021
I am so happy to have been part of Starla’s writing journey. I can’t wait for readers to meet Leo and Isabella!
October 16, 2021
Thank you so much to City Owl Press and Starla DeKruyf for letting me read this lovely holiday romance early via Netgalley!
This book immediately hooked me on the first page! I instantly wanted to know all about Isabella, her family's eight days of Christmas, and what happened between her and her hunky ex-boyfriend. I finished this book in one night. You won't regret picking this one up. If you read "In a Holidaze" last year like I did, this is a similar read!
Why you should read: If you're looking for a cute, Christmas-y rom-com with a solid amount of tension, heart-wrenching moments, sexiness, and all-around adorableness, this is the perfect book for you. Isabella and Leo are both incredibly relatable narrators, and their romance is anything but simple. I was constantly turning the page to find out Isabella's secrets, to see more of their sass battles, and finally learn how they might make it work! There are also great, loveable side characters. You can definitely see the threads DeKruyf is leaving to set up future books in this series, and I'm excited!
Definitely check this one out for the holiday season! Or, you know, for whenever you need a little Christmas magic.
This book immediately hooked me on the first page! I instantly wanted to know all about Isabella, her family's eight days of Christmas, and what happened between her and her hunky ex-boyfriend. I finished this book in one night. You won't regret picking this one up. If you read "In a Holidaze" last year like I did, this is a similar read!
Why you should read: If you're looking for a cute, Christmas-y rom-com with a solid amount of tension, heart-wrenching moments, sexiness, and all-around adorableness, this is the perfect book for you. Isabella and Leo are both incredibly relatable narrators, and their romance is anything but simple. I was constantly turning the page to find out Isabella's secrets, to see more of their sass battles, and finally learn how they might make it work! There are also great, loveable side characters. You can definitely see the threads DeKruyf is leaving to set up future books in this series, and I'm excited!
Definitely check this one out for the holiday season! Or, you know, for whenever you need a little Christmas magic.
December 15, 2021
This book was your typical Christmas romance. At times the characters could get irritating, but I enjoyed reading about what the main characters family did for the eight days of Christmas. All in all it was an enjoyable romance novel.
December 9, 2023
My very first wannabe_bookstagrammer review
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam 🔥 🔥 🔥
I think I could just say Christmastime (& wedding) romcom with steam and that would get all the right people to this book. But, I’ll stick to my @wannabe_bookstagrammer plan A: a bullet style review using star-struck emoji, wish/dizzy emoji, and other helpful emojis along the way.
🤩 Second-chance romance.
🤩 Close proximity with ground rules.
🤩 Whiskey and frisky.
🤩 All the feels—from laugh out loud moments to cry baby loving ones.
🤩 Back and forth chapter focus on Leo and Isabella.
🤩 Hot mix of emotional bitterness & physical/sexual desire between the main characters. Did I mention steam in a Christmas book?
🤩 Gradual, clever, and heart-wrenching release of the past circumstances to help us really know and understand the main characters.
🤩 Spicy teasing, banter, and friendly competition.
💫 I wish I’d had a set of the mentioned holiday mugs (Santas, reindeer, bear, and wooden sled up against a tree) to sip all the coffee, cocoa, and spiked eggnog from as I read through this book.
💫 I wish Leo had some balls (sorry, I can’t think of a nicer way to really prove my point) when Harrison showed up. He was definitely my book boyfriend up until that point.
💫 I can’t wait to find out who will take the lead roles in the next two books of the Pineridge series coming in 2022 ♥️ 🍁 (Nora & Landon? Mr. Hoffman--I’m a big fan of how Jasmine Guillory’s Royal Holiday turned out?).
💫 I wish for some of my #bookstagram friends to read this whole series with me. 😁
🙄 Special thanks to my 16-year-old daughter for taking time to read my reviewer notes out loud in a mocking voice on several occasions so I could feel extra confident as I worked to find my reviewer style.
Publisher’s Description
Holiday magic? Check.
Swoon worthy romance? Check.
Complications of epic proportions? Check.
Ready or not, Isabella Whitley is returning to her snowy hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s Christmas wedding. She wants in and out unscathed. Unlikely. A decade ago, she headed to New York and hasn’t looked back. Now she must explain her disappearing act to not only her family, but the high-school sweetheart she left behind as well.
Enter Leo Hoffman. He’s frosty after striving—and failing—to forget Isabella, the only woman capable of jingling his bells. Since his brother is marrying her sister, Leo is forced to celebrate Eight Days of Christmas with Isabella and her family—a tradition where they perform a different holiday activity each day leading up to December 25th.
Soon, their close proximity brings back memories—and the inability to keep their hands off one another. There’s only one problem. Isabella’s ex unexpectedly enters the equation, and she faces a difficult choice. Listen to her heart or her head? Isabella will need to decide, once and for all, where she belongs.
Perfect for fans of IN A HOLIDAZE and SWEET HOME ALABAMA! This second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance will have you swooning and reminiscing of first loves.
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Steam 🔥 🔥 🔥
I think I could just say Christmastime (& wedding) romcom with steam and that would get all the right people to this book. But, I’ll stick to my @wannabe_bookstagrammer plan A: a bullet style review using star-struck emoji, wish/dizzy emoji, and other helpful emojis along the way.
🤩 Second-chance romance.
🤩 Close proximity with ground rules.
🤩 Whiskey and frisky.
🤩 All the feels—from laugh out loud moments to cry baby loving ones.
🤩 Back and forth chapter focus on Leo and Isabella.
🤩 Hot mix of emotional bitterness & physical/sexual desire between the main characters. Did I mention steam in a Christmas book?
🤩 Gradual, clever, and heart-wrenching release of the past circumstances to help us really know and understand the main characters.
🤩 Spicy teasing, banter, and friendly competition.
💫 I wish I’d had a set of the mentioned holiday mugs (Santas, reindeer, bear, and wooden sled up against a tree) to sip all the coffee, cocoa, and spiked eggnog from as I read through this book.
💫 I wish Leo had some balls (sorry, I can’t think of a nicer way to really prove my point) when Harrison showed up. He was definitely my book boyfriend up until that point.
💫 I can’t wait to find out who will take the lead roles in the next two books of the Pineridge series coming in 2022 ♥️ 🍁 (Nora & Landon? Mr. Hoffman--I’m a big fan of how Jasmine Guillory’s Royal Holiday turned out?).
💫 I wish for some of my #bookstagram friends to read this whole series with me. 😁
🙄 Special thanks to my 16-year-old daughter for taking time to read my reviewer notes out loud in a mocking voice on several occasions so I could feel extra confident as I worked to find my reviewer style.
Publisher’s Description
Holiday magic? Check.
Swoon worthy romance? Check.
Complications of epic proportions? Check.
Ready or not, Isabella Whitley is returning to her snowy hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s Christmas wedding. She wants in and out unscathed. Unlikely. A decade ago, she headed to New York and hasn’t looked back. Now she must explain her disappearing act to not only her family, but the high-school sweetheart she left behind as well.
Enter Leo Hoffman. He’s frosty after striving—and failing—to forget Isabella, the only woman capable of jingling his bells. Since his brother is marrying her sister, Leo is forced to celebrate Eight Days of Christmas with Isabella and her family—a tradition where they perform a different holiday activity each day leading up to December 25th.
Soon, their close proximity brings back memories—and the inability to keep their hands off one another. There’s only one problem. Isabella’s ex unexpectedly enters the equation, and she faces a difficult choice. Listen to her heart or her head? Isabella will need to decide, once and for all, where she belongs.
Perfect for fans of IN A HOLIDAZE and SWEET HOME ALABAMA! This second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance will have you swooning and reminiscing of first loves.
October 26, 2021
4.2 💫
It's a cute Christmas romcom When I first read the blurb, I wasn't expecting to see the emotions play a major role
✨The book delivers what's it's promising.
❄Christmas vibes/ spirit - check
❄Second Chance at love - check
❄Family love - check
❄Follow your dreams encouragement - check
❄Charming Characters - check
❄Childhood fun - check.
❄Comedy- check
❄Tension - check
❄Wedding + Christmas = what better? - double-check
Leo was so caring and loving 😍 Just perfect for our Isabella - to crack against her walls and make her fall in love or realize she's still in love with him..but..what any the reason she left?? That's bound to break them...will Christmas magic work its charm on their story❄⛄
The characters were so engaging and involving. I had so much fun reading this book. A perfect holiday escape to curl up on the couch and settle with a hot cup of cocoa and Enjoyy😉😌 Recommended 🤗
CW: slightly more on romance but nothing explicit 🔥
It's a cute Christmas romcom When I first read the blurb, I wasn't expecting to see the emotions play a major role
✨The book delivers what's it's promising.
❄Christmas vibes/ spirit - check
❄Second Chance at love - check
❄Family love - check
❄Follow your dreams encouragement - check
❄Charming Characters - check
❄Childhood fun - check.
❄Comedy- check
❄Tension - check
❄Wedding + Christmas = what better? - double-check
Leo was so caring and loving 😍 Just perfect for our Isabella - to crack against her walls and make her fall in love or realize she's still in love with him..but..what any the reason she left?? That's bound to break them...will Christmas magic work its charm on their story❄⛄
The characters were so engaging and involving. I had so much fun reading this book. A perfect holiday escape to curl up on the couch and settle with a hot cup of cocoa and Enjoyy😉😌 Recommended 🤗
CW: slightly more on romance but nothing explicit 🔥
December 18, 2021
5 Christmas lit stars for this one! I really, really loved it. It’s a second chance romance that had all the rich, special chemistry that lovers share. Looks across the room, personal jokes with glances only they would understand.
I enjoyed watching these two try to figure out what they were going to do. But what made this really fun and Christmassy for me was the eight days of celebrating. Each day had special things to do and family.
What a wonderful treat this was and I’m excited to say I can’t wait to read another by this author.
I highly recommend it if you love a Christmas romance.
Thanks City Owl Press via NetGalley.
I enjoyed watching these two try to figure out what they were going to do. But what made this really fun and Christmassy for me was the eight days of celebrating. Each day had special things to do and family.
What a wonderful treat this was and I’m excited to say I can’t wait to read another by this author.
I highly recommend it if you love a Christmas romance.
Thanks City Owl Press via NetGalley.
November 8, 2021
With a second chance romance that had an enemy to lovers feel, Eight Day of Christmas was a quick read! It had vibes of Christina Lauren's In a Holidaze and the story flowed so easily. But while I loved so many of the characters, the heroine and I couldn’t work. At all.
Isabella Whitley, Izzy, moved to New York to go to college and hadn't returned home to her family for 10 years. She was headed back for her baby sister’s Christmas Day wedding, yet she knew it wouldn’t be easy. Her sister was getting married to her ex-high school sweetheart’s brother. And to top it off, her boyfriend in NY just broke up with her and now she was couch surfing with friends. I started out this book hoping that Izzy could find her happily ever after!
Leo Hoffman was my favorite! He was wounded from Izzy leaving him years ago. And he never got an answer as to why she didn’t return back home after college, like was planned. With a failed past marriage, a loving family and a career he was passionate about, Leo felt like an open book. So as we got to hear parts of the story in his voice, I fell hard for him. Leo was swoon worthy while being jaded. And he not only had a kind heart, but was incredibly sexy too. I loved how thoughtful he was. Leo was a book boyfriend you could easily fall for!
While there was so much chemistry between Leo and Izzy, there was pain too. As someone who adores banter in stories, their banter hurt and made my heart sad. It was laced with an undercurrent of heartache and felt attacking at times. It was sad and didn’t leave me smiling or begging for more. It didn’t help that Izzy could be so bitter and rude. Her emotions could flip so easily and there were quite a few moments in the book I just wanted to shake some sense into her or ask her where her kindness was!
On a positive, I loved all of the Christmas activities and references! Her family celebrated the eight days till Christmas with different activates each day. From Christmas tree shopping, to building snow men, gingerbread house decorating, and more, it made my Christmas heart so happy! And while this is random, I LOVED that Izzy's ex was Todd and their cat was Margo. I laughed out loud at that Christmas movie reference! But while doing family activities, Izzy’s parents or siblings would make comments about her disappearing act. With her bad attitude I felt no sympathy towards her. How did she expect everyone to treat her after she was gone for 10 years?!
Eight Days of Christmas had an ending that yes left us happy in the moment but I needed an epilogue or something more. The last few books I finished had HFNs, but this one left way too much up in the air. I closed that last page not smiling. Especially since there was also no closure about Izzy’s sister and the issues surrounding her. Maybe there will be a future book about her, but with Leo and Izzy I felt like there were too many things unanswered about their future. Plus there were a few unexplained interactions like when Leo's dad shows up and knows information that hasn't been given to him. Sigh. So if you pick this one up, here’s hoping you find lots more joy in the pages and love it more than me!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
Being back in Pineridge with Leo again was worse than she’d anticipated it would be. Just because she had abandoned him, didn’t mean she’d lost her feelings.
Deep down, she knew she’d always love Leo.
Isabella Whitley, Izzy, moved to New York to go to college and hadn't returned home to her family for 10 years. She was headed back for her baby sister’s Christmas Day wedding, yet she knew it wouldn’t be easy. Her sister was getting married to her ex-high school sweetheart’s brother. And to top it off, her boyfriend in NY just broke up with her and now she was couch surfing with friends. I started out this book hoping that Izzy could find her happily ever after!
God, she was still so stunning it hurt. He wished he could reach over and touch her. Wished the past had unfolded differently than it had when it came to her. Wished he wasn’t so damn bitter.
But he was, and all the wishing in the world wouldn’t make that bitterness go away.
Leo Hoffman was my favorite! He was wounded from Izzy leaving him years ago. And he never got an answer as to why she didn’t return back home after college, like was planned. With a failed past marriage, a loving family and a career he was passionate about, Leo felt like an open book. So as we got to hear parts of the story in his voice, I fell hard for him. Leo was swoon worthy while being jaded. And he not only had a kind heart, but was incredibly sexy too. I loved how thoughtful he was. Leo was a book boyfriend you could easily fall for!
If memories would be all he’d have from the week they’d shared, he didn’t want to forget a single detail.
While there was so much chemistry between Leo and Izzy, there was pain too. As someone who adores banter in stories, their banter hurt and made my heart sad. It was laced with an undercurrent of heartache and felt attacking at times. It was sad and didn’t leave me smiling or begging for more. It didn’t help that Izzy could be so bitter and rude. Her emotions could flip so easily and there were quite a few moments in the book I just wanted to shake some sense into her or ask her where her kindness was!
She mumbled to herself as she stomped up the stairs, “Eight Days of Christmas, my ass. It’s only day three and I’m ready to jump on the next plane out of here.”
On a positive, I loved all of the Christmas activities and references! Her family celebrated the eight days till Christmas with different activates each day. From Christmas tree shopping, to building snow men, gingerbread house decorating, and more, it made my Christmas heart so happy! And while this is random, I LOVED that Izzy's ex was Todd and their cat was Margo. I laughed out loud at that Christmas movie reference! But while doing family activities, Izzy’s parents or siblings would make comments about her disappearing act. With her bad attitude I felt no sympathy towards her. How did she expect everyone to treat her after she was gone for 10 years?!
“Ten years is a long time. I don’t want a lifetime to pass knowing that I didn’t at least try for the one thing I want most in this world.”
Eight Days of Christmas had an ending that yes left us happy in the moment but I needed an epilogue or something more. The last few books I finished had HFNs, but this one left way too much up in the air. I closed that last page not smiling. Especially since there was also no closure about Izzy’s sister and the issues surrounding her. Maybe there will be a future book about her, but with Leo and Izzy I felt like there were too many things unanswered about their future. Plus there were a few unexplained interactions like when Leo's dad shows up and knows information that hasn't been given to him. Sigh. So if you pick this one up, here’s hoping you find lots more joy in the pages and love it more than me!
*I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, provided by the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
For more of my reviews, please visit:
December 12, 2021
Very good very filled with Christmas and drama!
Izzy and Leo are high school sweethearts also grew up together as neighbors and best friends! When the two decide to date they are pulled away so sudden by Someone very important to leo.
And just like that Izzy leaves!
10 years later Izzy finally goes back to her home town. Only to find herself in the same family drama and mix of her neighbor/ex bf. Sparks began to fly (and clothes to).
The book felt very long for the story but the author was very detailed in the scenes. It was an enjoyable book. I’m glad I got to read it and experience the 8 days of Christmas with the Whitley family.
Izzy and Leo are high school sweethearts also grew up together as neighbors and best friends! When the two decide to date they are pulled away so sudden by Someone very important to leo.
And just like that Izzy leaves!
10 years later Izzy finally goes back to her home town. Only to find herself in the same family drama and mix of her neighbor/ex bf. Sparks began to fly (and clothes to).
The book felt very long for the story but the author was very detailed in the scenes. It was an enjoyable book. I’m glad I got to read it and experience the 8 days of Christmas with the Whitley family.
October 16, 2021
5 *stars*
Thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC copy of this book.
My thoughts:
I'm really liking this story. The tension, both angry and sexual, between the two main characters is so compelling despite the past. I'm in love with the idea of family tradition 8 days before Christmas. I'm eager to choose some of them and use them to start my family traditions. Reading about the family closeness and passion for keeping up the traditions is so heartwarming. Every word can influence our decisions, especially if it does not agree with your own opinion. Ten years have passed, but that does not mean that love can disappear. True love never ends, even if 10 or 2 years have passed. Everyone can find their true love by just listening to their heart.
Brief synopsis:
Leo tries to forget an old love when it comes to his life unexpectedly. Isabella broke Leo's heart and went to live in New York. It's been 10 years since Isabella was last home. It is difficult for her to return to where she broke the heart of her closest man. Isabella's sister Norah's wedding makes her return home. Isabella and Leo are forced to spend 8 days together. Does true love exist even 10 years after they last met?
Thank you!
#EightDaysofChristmas #NetGalley
Thanks to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for providing an ARC copy of this book.
My thoughts:
I'm really liking this story. The tension, both angry and sexual, between the two main characters is so compelling despite the past. I'm in love with the idea of family tradition 8 days before Christmas. I'm eager to choose some of them and use them to start my family traditions. Reading about the family closeness and passion for keeping up the traditions is so heartwarming. Every word can influence our decisions, especially if it does not agree with your own opinion. Ten years have passed, but that does not mean that love can disappear. True love never ends, even if 10 or 2 years have passed. Everyone can find their true love by just listening to their heart.
Brief synopsis:
Leo tries to forget an old love when it comes to his life unexpectedly. Isabella broke Leo's heart and went to live in New York. It's been 10 years since Isabella was last home. It is difficult for her to return to where she broke the heart of her closest man. Isabella's sister Norah's wedding makes her return home. Isabella and Leo are forced to spend 8 days together. Does true love exist even 10 years after they last met?
Thank you!
#EightDaysofChristmas #NetGalley
October 27, 2021
I love a good Second Chance romance and EIGHT DAYS OF CHRISTMAS had everything I love about the trope: the memories of teenage love, the palpable chemistry, the enemies vibe when they first reunite, the secrets that tore them apart finally coming to light.
Leo and Isabella are so great together! I loved their hate banter at the start of this book when they are suddenly thrown back together after a decade apart. Watching them slowly reconnect is sweet and steamy!
Leo and Isabella's families are so wonderful and I wanted to be invited to this 8 Days celebration! The competition and snark is so fun to read.
I found the conflict resolution a bit frustrating. Both characters are just to afraid to act and, much like the "just talk to each other" conflict in other books, EIGHT DATS OF CHRISTMAS suffers from "Just take the leap already!"
But the sweet ending of this story makes the mild frustration all worth it! I loved the final scenes.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated PG-13
TRIGGERS: past death of parent
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3BBZoah (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
Leo and Isabella are so great together! I loved their hate banter at the start of this book when they are suddenly thrown back together after a decade apart. Watching them slowly reconnect is sweet and steamy!
Leo and Isabella's families are so wonderful and I wanted to be invited to this 8 Days celebration! The competition and snark is so fun to read.
I found the conflict resolution a bit frustrating. Both characters are just to afraid to act and, much like the "just talk to each other" conflict in other books, EIGHT DATS OF CHRISTMAS suffers from "Just take the leap already!"
But the sweet ending of this story makes the mild frustration all worth it! I loved the final scenes.
RATING:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
STEAM LEVEL: Rated PG-13
TRIGGERS: past death of parent
FEELS-O-METER: 2/5 - A bit of drama, but still a pretty light read.
I received an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
BUY IT HERE: https://amzn.to/3BBZoah (aff.)
👇🏻HANG OUT WITH ME HERE!👇🏻
INSTAGRAM | YEAR OF SMUT CHALLENGE
December 8, 2021
I don’t ever write reviews, but after finishing this book, I felt I needed to. This was a 3-star book overall, just an okay time. But the epilogue killed it - completely ruined any good feeling I had about it and brought it down to a 2-star. So if you’d like to keep the warm, fuzzy feelings of an average holiday romance, I would skip the epilogue.
December 19, 2021
Super cute holiday romcom, it hit all the emotions! I LOVED this book so much! I look forward to reading more from this author!
December 13, 2021
Holiday magic? Sure, I guess.
Swoon-worthy romance? No, not really.
Complications of epic proportions? Again, not really. At least nothing that couldn't have been quickly resolved with the barest amount of open and honest communication.
This book really didn't work for me. It was formulaic, it was clunky, it was boring, and the whole time I felt like the story kept going around and around in circles. There wasn't much of a plot to speak of. Two people, who were still very into each other (and constantly commenting on the other's hotness in their internal monologues), and who used to date, get reunited after ten years apart. There's some hurt feelings between them. Cue the unending cycle of constantly lusting after each other in the midst of throwing snark and mean and hurtful comments the other's way. Rinse and repeat for 300 pages—amidst some Holiday activities. That was pretty much the whole book.
I liked the idea of the 8 days of Christmas traditions, but at the end of the day it was nothing more than a thin way to force Izzy and Leo together. And when neither the two main characters, nor anyone else were very likable people, the whole thing was just bound to colapse in on itself.
If I came home for the holidays after ten years, and all my family did was throw passive aggressive comments at me and repeatedly guilt-trip me for not visiting earlier (all the while secretly knowing the reason why I didn't in the first place), I don't think I'd be much inclined to go visit them again any time soon. The way everyone interacted with Izzy made her whole family seem so toxic.
And don't even get me started about the relationship between Norah and Landon (Izzy and Leo's younger siblings). That level of co-dependency was not healthy. Plus, some serious red flags were thrown in there: he had a wandering eye, got blind drunk a few hours before the wedding and insinuated, very obviously, to Izzy's face that Norah was a total prude and her family was impossibly overbearing. And we're supposed to be cool and happy they got married? And not care about of all of the glaring issues that were left carelessly unresolved?
And the whole reason for Izzy and Leo's break up seemed so flimsy. Plus, does Pinerigde have an unwritten rule or something that anyone from there who visits New York has to face the death penalty or something? Everyone was so quick to lay into her for not visiting, but did any of them go visit her besides her older brother and his family? Relationships are a two way street. As unlikable as Izzy could be at times (that Karen airport moment still makes me cringe), she was working hard, chasing her dreams and building a successful life and career for herself. But everyone seemed so dismissive of that.
I don't know. So many things in this book didn't sit well with me. From the repetitive writing, to the inexistente plot progression, to the way it normalized awful behaviors. The bones for a nice, fun holiday romance were there, but the execution was a flat out failure for me.
**I received an e-copy of this book through Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to City Owl Press and Victory Editing**
November 23, 2021
Thank you to StoryGram Tours for gifting me a review copy of this book.
Holiday traditions? Swoon-worthy second-chance love? Small-town romance? Yes, yes, and yes!
This sweet book will have you reminiscing about first loves, and wanting to call your family.
Isabella Whitley is back in her hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s wedding. Of course, they've planned the wedding for Christmas, so Isabella has no choice but to come back home (after a decade away) and attend her family's eight days of Christmas traditions. And what's worse is that she's much thrown together with her ex...all week. Could things get any worse?!
Leo Hoffman never quite got over Isabella, but after making it very clear he wasn't worth the effort, he's determined to keep his distance. It's going to be tricky since his dad lives next door to Isabella's family, and oh, did I mention his brother is marrying Isabella's sister?!
The two of them are at each other's throats, but all that fire seems to be an indication that there are other feelings lurking below the surface. But what will Isabella decide? Will she go back to New York and her boyfriend there (yep, there's a bit of a love triangle sich) or will she make Pineridge her home once again, and let Leo back into her heart?
I really enjoyed watching Isabella and Leo together and watching their angsty hot and cold behavior amidst all the festive snowman-building, blind gingerbread house decorating, ice-skating, and all the other lovely family traditions that make up their eight days of Christmas.
Sweet and light, this was a great holiday read.
Holiday traditions? Swoon-worthy second-chance love? Small-town romance? Yes, yes, and yes!
This sweet book will have you reminiscing about first loves, and wanting to call your family.
Isabella Whitley is back in her hometown of Pineridge, Colorado for her sister’s wedding. Of course, they've planned the wedding for Christmas, so Isabella has no choice but to come back home (after a decade away) and attend her family's eight days of Christmas traditions. And what's worse is that she's much thrown together with her ex...all week. Could things get any worse?!
Leo Hoffman never quite got over Isabella, but after making it very clear he wasn't worth the effort, he's determined to keep his distance. It's going to be tricky since his dad lives next door to Isabella's family, and oh, did I mention his brother is marrying Isabella's sister?!
The two of them are at each other's throats, but all that fire seems to be an indication that there are other feelings lurking below the surface. But what will Isabella decide? Will she go back to New York and her boyfriend there (yep, there's a bit of a love triangle sich) or will she make Pineridge her home once again, and let Leo back into her heart?
I really enjoyed watching Isabella and Leo together and watching their angsty hot and cold behavior amidst all the festive snowman-building, blind gingerbread house decorating, ice-skating, and all the other lovely family traditions that make up their eight days of Christmas.
Sweet and light, this was a great holiday read.
December 26, 2021
4.5 stars! I absolutely loved this Christmas book. It was so much fun, I kind of want to start my own Eight Days of Christmas tradition now! I absolutely loved the characters. It’s a strong contender for my favourite holiday book of the season. I’m so excited to see there’s a second book coming!
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
October 13, 2021
Read if you like second chance romances set in a winter wonderland.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam: 🔥🔥
Like the first snow of the season, this book will bring you all of the holiday feels. After seeing so many holiday books on my feed, I knew I had to get in on the action. And what a lovely book to start off the season!
In Eight Days of Christmas, Isabella is returning to her hometown after 10 years away for her little sister's wedding. Unfortunately, her sister is getting married to her ex's, Leo, little brother. As the best man and maid of honor, they sre forced to spend the holidays together reliving old traditions.
The whole book felt like a warm hug. I loved how the two main characters' original animosity evolved into a spicy chemistry as their relationship advanced. The holiday traditions sprinkled throughout were so fun and definitely brought all the holiday nostalgia.
I didn't give this book five stars because I felt the book dragged a little in the middle. Also I needed to know what was going on between Norah and Landon. I couldn't get behind their wedding and I felt sad for Norah.
I would recommend this book if you want to spend an evening snuggled on your couch with a large mug of hot chocolate. The perfect holiday book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Overall: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Steam: 🔥🔥
Like the first snow of the season, this book will bring you all of the holiday feels. After seeing so many holiday books on my feed, I knew I had to get in on the action. And what a lovely book to start off the season!
In Eight Days of Christmas, Isabella is returning to her hometown after 10 years away for her little sister's wedding. Unfortunately, her sister is getting married to her ex's, Leo, little brother. As the best man and maid of honor, they sre forced to spend the holidays together reliving old traditions.
The whole book felt like a warm hug. I loved how the two main characters' original animosity evolved into a spicy chemistry as their relationship advanced. The holiday traditions sprinkled throughout were so fun and definitely brought all the holiday nostalgia.
I didn't give this book five stars because I felt the book dragged a little in the middle. Also I needed to know what was going on between Norah and Landon. I couldn't get behind their wedding and I felt sad for Norah.
I would recommend this book if you want to spend an evening snuggled on your couch with a large mug of hot chocolate. The perfect holiday book!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 17, 2021
This one wasn’t for me. I had a really hard time connecting to the characters. And the storyline wasn’t really relatable in any way. But honestly it was the ending for me that made me rate this so low.
January 5, 2022
So I didn't actually pick this book for myself, a group of friends all picked a book to read and then we swapped with each other and we all wrote notes and drew little pictures before passing it to the next person. By the end everyone had a book full of notations, highlights, and decorations. It was really fun.
Anyway, so for the most part this was a cute book. It wasn't so good that I felt compelled to keep reading, but I did feel the need to finish the story and see what happens. Though it was a fairly predictable story.
Isabella was pretty annoying... and for a grown adult she was really childish.
Her reasons for not coming home for TEN YEARS do not make sense. You want to use that excuse for a year or two, okay, but you do not stay away from your entire family for that long and never tell anyone anything. It just didn't make sense to me.
I liked Leo more than Isabella, but nothing about him struck me as a good mc.
Norah (Isabella's sister) and Landon (Leo's brother) are a couple, and their wedding is the reason Isabella finally comes home. She chose her wedding date to force her sister to come home during Christmas. (who bases their wedding date on someone else?) She also forces Izzy and Leo together in multiple situations trying to get them back together. Also, there were a lot of things wrong with Norah an Landon's relationship. LOTS of red flags throughout the whole book.
Things just rubbed me the wrong way with both relationships. The only thing I really enjoyed about the book was the 8 days of Christmas activities. The idea that big families are close enough to get together for traditions like that was really cool.
Then you get to the epilogue and the whole story takes an insane curve and the whole character base you were introduced to is blown up. Obviously it's a set up for future books in the series... but you took something that was supposed to be a rom-com and crushed the rom and the com!
Anyway, so for the most part this was a cute book. It wasn't so good that I felt compelled to keep reading, but I did feel the need to finish the story and see what happens. Though it was a fairly predictable story.
Isabella was pretty annoying... and for a grown adult she was really childish.
Her reasons for not coming home for TEN YEARS do not make sense. You want to use that excuse for a year or two, okay, but you do not stay away from your entire family for that long and never tell anyone anything. It just didn't make sense to me.
I liked Leo more than Isabella, but nothing about him struck me as a good mc.
Norah (Isabella's sister) and Landon (Leo's brother) are a couple, and their wedding is the reason Isabella finally comes home. She chose her wedding date to force her sister to come home during Christmas. (who bases their wedding date on someone else?) She also forces Izzy and Leo together in multiple situations trying to get them back together. Also, there were a lot of things wrong with Norah an Landon's relationship. LOTS of red flags throughout the whole book.
Things just rubbed me the wrong way with both relationships. The only thing I really enjoyed about the book was the 8 days of Christmas activities. The idea that big families are close enough to get together for traditions like that was really cool.
Then you get to the epilogue and the whole story takes an insane curve and the whole character base you were introduced to is blown up. Obviously it's a set up for future books in the series... but you took something that was supposed to be a rom-com and crushed the rom and the com!
December 6, 2021
"Home isn’t always a place, Izzy.
Sometimes home is with the right person, no matter where they live."
I have mix feelings about this book. There are some things that I like, but there are also thing I disagree in this story.
Let's talk about the good things first.
This story is pretty well written and well paced. I really love the Christmas vibes in here, the winter season and the Christmas tradition by Izzy's family is wonderful and adorable. It makes me wish I could travel somewhere place where they have a winter season and we can do all sort of fun things like making a snowman, sledding and ice skating.
I also love what Izzy and Leo had, a friendship that turns into something more over time. They share many memories together.
I was so curious the entire time reading this story to find out the reason why Izzy left Leo years ago. All I can say is the reason is believable and makes sense.
Despite all of that good things, I don't like how Izzy's family treat her. By always making mean comments about why she wasn't around and didn't come home for the last 10 years. They keep making comment about it every chance they get which makes me feel bad for Izzy.
Not to mention, Landon and Norah relationship just feels weird to me. They didn't feel like a couple whose ready to get married for some reasons.
Overall, this wasn't so bad, it was okay. I didn't really like the secondary character, but the story is well crated.
Perfect for readers who are looking for a Christmas reads filled with lots of fun Christmas tradition as well as lovers to enemies to lovers and second chance romance trope.
Thank you to Netgalley, Starla DeKruyf and City Owl Press for granting me this e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
Sometimes home is with the right person, no matter where they live."
I have mix feelings about this book. There are some things that I like, but there are also thing I disagree in this story.
Let's talk about the good things first.
This story is pretty well written and well paced. I really love the Christmas vibes in here, the winter season and the Christmas tradition by Izzy's family is wonderful and adorable. It makes me wish I could travel somewhere place where they have a winter season and we can do all sort of fun things like making a snowman, sledding and ice skating.
I also love what Izzy and Leo had, a friendship that turns into something more over time. They share many memories together.
I was so curious the entire time reading this story to find out the reason why Izzy left Leo years ago. All I can say is the reason is believable and makes sense.
Despite all of that good things, I don't like how Izzy's family treat her. By always making mean comments about why she wasn't around and didn't come home for the last 10 years. They keep making comment about it every chance they get which makes me feel bad for Izzy.
Not to mention, Landon and Norah relationship just feels weird to me. They didn't feel like a couple whose ready to get married for some reasons.
Overall, this wasn't so bad, it was okay. I didn't really like the secondary character, but the story is well crated.
Perfect for readers who are looking for a Christmas reads filled with lots of fun Christmas tradition as well as lovers to enemies to lovers and second chance romance trope.
Thank you to Netgalley, Starla DeKruyf and City Owl Press for granting me this e-ARC in exchange for my honest opinion!
October 28, 2021
What an adorable second chance romance debut! I can't wait for more from DeKruyf!
Isabela Whitley has stayed away from home for far too long, especially since her family is big and tight-knit, a bit invasive, and a ton of fun. They've created a tradition called the Eight Days of Christmas where each day they have a specific Christmas task to accomplish. It will make your heart grow three sizes, seriously...adorable.
But when Isabela returns home after a decade because her sister is getting married, she finds that the neighbor and her ex, Leo Hoffman has basically been adopted into her family and now she gets to spend the holiday with him in awkward, annoyance. Let the antics ensue!
There's additional conflict from a recent kinda-sorta ex-boyfriend, but the whole tone is light and fun.
Pick it up if you love Christmas romance novels that actually involve Christmas, HEAs, second chance romance, small town romance, and snowy winter scenes.
Isabela Whitley has stayed away from home for far too long, especially since her family is big and tight-knit, a bit invasive, and a ton of fun. They've created a tradition called the Eight Days of Christmas where each day they have a specific Christmas task to accomplish. It will make your heart grow three sizes, seriously...adorable.
But when Isabela returns home after a decade because her sister is getting married, she finds that the neighbor and her ex, Leo Hoffman has basically been adopted into her family and now she gets to spend the holiday with him in awkward, annoyance. Let the antics ensue!
There's additional conflict from a recent kinda-sorta ex-boyfriend, but the whole tone is light and fun.
Pick it up if you love Christmas romance novels that actually involve Christmas, HEAs, second chance romance, small town romance, and snowy winter scenes.
October 13, 2021
Izzy and Leo were high school sweethearts and stayed together through college, until Izzy chose to stay in NYC for her dream career instead of head back to Colorado to be with Leo. Now, she’s back for the first time in 10 years for Christmas as their siblings, Norah and Landon, are getting married to each other. Izzy and her NYC boyfriend recently broke up and she is feeling a little lost. Is being back home the answer? Leo’s heart was broken when Izzy left last time. Can he trust her again?
•
I enjoyed this book, though it felt a bit slow at times and it felt like there were too many side characters (maybe setting up for future book leads?) The chemistry between Izzy and Leo was great! 🔥 Dual POVs really helped me understand how they were each feeling about different situations, too. This is the first book in a new series and I’m curious if future books will also take place during the holiday season. I’d recommend it if you (like me) love to read or watch holiday romances. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5 stars, rounded up to 4.
•
Thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for an advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
•
I enjoyed this book, though it felt a bit slow at times and it felt like there were too many side characters (maybe setting up for future book leads?) The chemistry between Izzy and Leo was great! 🔥 Dual POVs really helped me understand how they were each feeling about different situations, too. This is the first book in a new series and I’m curious if future books will also take place during the holiday season. I’d recommend it if you (like me) love to read or watch holiday romances. ❤️
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫/5 stars, rounded up to 4.
•
Thank you to NetGalley and City Owl Press for an advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 18, 2021
A Christmas-themed romance that I really enjoyed. This one follows Isabella, who hasn't gone home for Christmas in the last 10 years. Her job writing for the New Yorker magazine has kept her busy in New York City and she just hasn't felt the need to return to her small town in Colorado. Until her sister decides to have her wedding on Christmas Day. She cannot miss that. And that means going back home, after her long absence, and seeing her high school sweetheart (and next door neighbor) Leo. Of course, you know how this will turn out, but it's always fun to have a book that reminds you of watching Hallmark Christmas movies.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 14, 2021
I HAD to sign up for this ARC! Izzy is going back home after not visiting for a DECADE! She’s not only going back for her little sisters wedding to her ex-high school sweet heart’s Brother, but she’ll be back for the week of Christmas too. Izzy’s family has a tradition, The Eight Days of Christmas, filled with fun and competition. Will these eight days be enough time to thaw out the relationships she left behind? Could this be a second chance for her and Leo?
This Book has:
• Enemies to lovers
•Second Chance Romance
•Witty Banter
•Comedy
•Christmas Celebrations
•Sweet & intimate moments
•competitions
•An Easter Egg for FRIENDS fans out there
•and a wedding!
What more could you ask for in one book?? This book gave me Sweet Home Alabama Vibes, but
B E T T E R! 😍 This is a sweet rom-com that will make you feel good and wish you were celebrating the 8 days of Christmas! I can’t wait for my next visit to Pineridge!
This Book has:
• Enemies to lovers
•Second Chance Romance
•Witty Banter
•Comedy
•Christmas Celebrations
•Sweet & intimate moments
•competitions
•An Easter Egg for FRIENDS fans out there
•and a wedding!
What more could you ask for in one book?? This book gave me Sweet Home Alabama Vibes, but
B E T T E R! 😍 This is a sweet rom-com that will make you feel good and wish you were celebrating the 8 days of Christmas! I can’t wait for my next visit to Pineridge!
November 11, 2021
I received an e-arc for review. All opinions are my own.
Eight Days of Christmas is a festive seasonal romance! It really hits all if the right notes with holiday fun like decorating cookies and gingerbread houses along with the romance. This is a second chance romance that has some elements of forced proximity due to sharing a car and a big family wedding. I loved that the romance between Leo and Isabella wasn't instant... there was attraction but they handled the relationship like adults. I would definitely recommend!!
Eight Days of Christmas is a festive seasonal romance! It really hits all if the right notes with holiday fun like decorating cookies and gingerbread houses along with the romance. This is a second chance romance that has some elements of forced proximity due to sharing a car and a big family wedding. I loved that the romance between Leo and Isabella wasn't instant... there was attraction but they handled the relationship like adults. I would definitely recommend!!
October 22, 2021
Eight Days of Christmas follows Isabella and Leo childhood friends and high-school sweethearts.
Isabella is returning home to her small snowy hometown at Christmas for her sisters wedding. She hasn’t been home or saw Leo since she took off for New York years ago. But with Leo’s brother marrying her sister Isabella knows that she is not only going to have to see him at the wedding but also during the ‘8 Days of Christmas’ - a tradition where her family perform different holiday activities each day.
With Christmas in the air and old sparks flying Isabella and Leo find themselves unable to stay away from each other, trying to figure out what torn them apart and if they can find a way back together.
This book has everything that makes my heart swoon. Second chance romance is seriously my jam! And throw in a bit of two people trying to stay away from each-other but being pulled together and I cannot get enough!
Plus alternating chapters in Isabella’s and Leo’s points of view. Like seriously it’s everything I love in a romance. Add to it christmas. Seriously you need this book in your life.
I also loved how the author has created a playlist that goes with the book as well. Additions like that make a book even more enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
Isabella is returning home to her small snowy hometown at Christmas for her sisters wedding. She hasn’t been home or saw Leo since she took off for New York years ago. But with Leo’s brother marrying her sister Isabella knows that she is not only going to have to see him at the wedding but also during the ‘8 Days of Christmas’ - a tradition where her family perform different holiday activities each day.
With Christmas in the air and old sparks flying Isabella and Leo find themselves unable to stay away from each other, trying to figure out what torn them apart and if they can find a way back together.
This book has everything that makes my heart swoon. Second chance romance is seriously my jam! And throw in a bit of two people trying to stay away from each-other but being pulled together and I cannot get enough!
Plus alternating chapters in Isabella’s and Leo’s points of view. Like seriously it’s everything I love in a romance. Add to it christmas. Seriously you need this book in your life.
I also loved how the author has created a playlist that goes with the book as well. Additions like that make a book even more enjoyable.
Thank you NetGalley for the copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinions.
December 14, 2021
Rating: 4.5/5.0
Their passion was oozing off the pages with an ending that will leave readers craving rom-com-grand gestures.
Read full review in the 2021 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Their passion was oozing off the pages with an ending that will leave readers craving rom-com-grand gestures.
Read full review in the 2021 Holiday issue of InD'tale Magazine.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 211 reviews