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Holly and Nick Hate Christmas
When a Christmas-hating woman’s brother sets her up with a fellow Grinch and it backfires, she decides to out-Christmas her date by setting up a festive battle wills in this enemies-to-lovers holiday romcom.
Holly Sinclair has hated Christmas for as long as she can remember. Who names their Christmas baby Holly in the first place? She was teased mercilessly growing up. Holly Berry, Holli-days, Holly Jolly…not to mention the fact that her birthday is often totally overlooked amidst the season.
To make matters worse, instead of getting the promotion she was expecting, Holly’s been downsized—which is just fancy holiday talk for fired. Now Holly has to go home single, unemployed, and turning thirty. Bah, humbug.
Holly’s big brother, Ryan, has dragged his best friend, known holiday-hater Nick Kinsley, home with him. But when Holly discovers that Nick’s here to be her pity date, she decides the best revenge is to play along…and Christmas like she’s never Christmas’d before. Commence Naughty List. The fact that she’s attracted to Nick is totally not the point. She’ll teach him a lesson, one ho ho ho at a time.
The holiday grows more complicated when Holly and Ryan find out their parents asked all the siblings to come home for Christmas this year, but refuse to say why. The rest of the Sinclair siblings descend, each with their own sleigh full of secrets. Rumors spread as everyone tries to guess the reason for their parents’ demand—and Nick turns out to have a secret of his own. Will this be a Christmas to forget? Or will Holly and Nick discover there is so much more?
Holly Sinclair has hated Christmas for as long as she can remember. Who names their Christmas baby Holly in the first place? She was teased mercilessly growing up. Holly Berry, Holli-days, Holly Jolly…not to mention the fact that her birthday is often totally overlooked amidst the season.
To make matters worse, instead of getting the promotion she was expecting, Holly’s been downsized—which is just fancy holiday talk for fired. Now Holly has to go home single, unemployed, and turning thirty. Bah, humbug.
Holly’s big brother, Ryan, has dragged his best friend, known holiday-hater Nick Kinsley, home with him. But when Holly discovers that Nick’s here to be her pity date, she decides the best revenge is to play along…and Christmas like she’s never Christmas’d before. Commence Naughty List. The fact that she’s attracted to Nick is totally not the point. She’ll teach him a lesson, one ho ho ho at a time.
The holiday grows more complicated when Holly and Ryan find out their parents asked all the siblings to come home for Christmas this year, but refuse to say why. The rest of the Sinclair siblings descend, each with their own sleigh full of secrets. Rumors spread as everyone tries to guess the reason for their parents’ demand—and Nick turns out to have a secret of his own. Will this be a Christmas to forget? Or will Holly and Nick discover there is so much more?
352 pages, Paperback
First published September 1, 2025
211 people are currently reading
13363 people want to read
About the author
Betsy St. Amant
47 books861 followersBetsy St. Amant Haddox is the author of almost thirty romance novels and novellas. She resides in north Louisiana with her hubby, two teenagers, and one furry schnauzer-toddler. Betsy has a bachelor of arts in communication and loves teaching and speaking on the craft of writing. When she’s not suffering through a CrossFit workout or baby talking her dog, she can usually be found in the vicinity of an iced coffee. She writes frequently for iBelieve, a devotional site for women, and offers author coaching and editing services through Storyside LLC.
also published under Betsy Ann St. Amant
also published under Betsy Ann St. Amant
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 249 reviews
November 15, 2025
This beautiful book deserves all the stars.
It was funny, amazing, thought-provoking. It captured the true spirit of Christmas. I have so much love for this book ❤️💚
It was funny, amazing, thought-provoking. It captured the true spirit of Christmas. I have so much love for this book ❤️💚
April 10, 2025
Holly and Nick Hate Christmas is a romance fictional novel. It has the romance and comedy, but it also has a lot of religious references in it. It starts off two weeks before Christmas and doesn’t get to Christmas day until about 90% into the book. I feel like the characters lacked depth and the ending was not well executed. I did not feel the chemistry between the two main characters. Even though this book was not what I was expecting, I still found it to be a reasonable read.
This is a Holiday romance book that centers around a woman named Holly. She doesn’t like Christmas because she was born a Christmas baby and her Parents named her Holly, out of all the names in the world. Holly’s Brother tries to set up Holly with his best friend named Nick. At first it starts to backfire on her brother, but then these two don’t stay enemies for long! As the story starts to unravel, they end up having feelings for one another. The story then jumps two years into the future, and we get to see how everything played out. This is a heartwarming Christmas novel filled with family secrets. Overall, I rate this a 3 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Betsy St. Amant and WaterBrook & Multnomah publishing for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is set to be published on September 16, 2025!
This is a Holiday romance book that centers around a woman named Holly. She doesn’t like Christmas because she was born a Christmas baby and her Parents named her Holly, out of all the names in the world. Holly’s Brother tries to set up Holly with his best friend named Nick. At first it starts to backfire on her brother, but then these two don’t stay enemies for long! As the story starts to unravel, they end up having feelings for one another. The story then jumps two years into the future, and we get to see how everything played out. This is a heartwarming Christmas novel filled with family secrets. Overall, I rate this a 3 out of 5 stars!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Betsy St. Amant and WaterBrook & Multnomah publishing for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This book is set to be published on September 16, 2025!
December 5, 2025
4⭐️ no spice
the realistic chaotic family holiday was written so well in this one! i feel like i really got to know these characters and their family and was able to really root for them. if you’re looking for a sweet, funny christmas romance with fake dating, family secrets and Christian undertones and can look past the fact that the characters act a little young for their age considering they are 30, I’d definitely recommend this one! ✨❤️
the realistic chaotic family holiday was written so well in this one! i feel like i really got to know these characters and their family and was able to really root for them. if you’re looking for a sweet, funny christmas romance with fake dating, family secrets and Christian undertones and can look past the fact that the characters act a little young for their age considering they are 30, I’d definitely recommend this one! ✨❤️
September 20, 2025
Book Review - Holly and Nick Hate Christmas
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was so funny for Christmas time! We have a fake dating rom-com, enemies to lovers, clean romance with a dash of faith added. I love the characters are in their 30s and the number of times I cackled with the Christmas shenanigans - so funny! We follow Holly who has hated Christmas forever.....she was teased all the time for her name being Holly as it was...and her birthday was overlooked each season so it wasn't the best season for her each year. She doesn't get the promotion at work as she hoped....in fact...she was downsized at the company. So now, she is single, unemployed, turning 30 and not in the best frame of mind for the upcoming Christmas season.
Holly's brother Ryan asks his best friend, known as "Holiday-Hater Nick" to go home with him. Unfortunately....Holly overhears her brother asking Nick to be her date for the Christmas party. She feels like this is the best time to get "back at Nick" for being his "pity date" and since she knows he doesn't love the Christmas season either...she becomes the BIGGEST Christmas enthusiast - think "Cindy Lou Who" status.
Everyone is home this Christmas...some secrets, rumors....what's going to happen this Christmas? Something just doesn't seem right this year.
We see Holly and Nick end up truly "fake dating" and the rest is history.
This was a light, fluffy rom-com with a dash of faith added for a time I really needed it. Nick and Holly CRACKED ME UP! The Christmas prank wars if you will were hilarious. But I also loved the layer of seriousness that came towards the end. I like how Betsy didn't make this a "hate on Christmas" book but more of a light, play on disliking the Christmas season because of certain things that occurred in the characters life that made sense. She added so many fun Christmas elements leading up to Christmas Day. Praise God the real meaning behind Christmas was also shared at the end.
Overall, I would recommend for this year's Christmas reading if you want something fun, light hearted and that will make you laugh. Also please read the author's note!
Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are are my own.
*content: kisses only, no language, some attraction bits but nothing that bothered me
4 Stars
Blog Post: https://bookloveramanda.blogspot.com/...
This was so funny for Christmas time! We have a fake dating rom-com, enemies to lovers, clean romance with a dash of faith added. I love the characters are in their 30s and the number of times I cackled with the Christmas shenanigans - so funny! We follow Holly who has hated Christmas forever.....she was teased all the time for her name being Holly as it was...and her birthday was overlooked each season so it wasn't the best season for her each year. She doesn't get the promotion at work as she hoped....in fact...she was downsized at the company. So now, she is single, unemployed, turning 30 and not in the best frame of mind for the upcoming Christmas season.
Holly's brother Ryan asks his best friend, known as "Holiday-Hater Nick" to go home with him. Unfortunately....Holly overhears her brother asking Nick to be her date for the Christmas party. She feels like this is the best time to get "back at Nick" for being his "pity date" and since she knows he doesn't love the Christmas season either...she becomes the BIGGEST Christmas enthusiast - think "Cindy Lou Who" status.
Everyone is home this Christmas...some secrets, rumors....what's going to happen this Christmas? Something just doesn't seem right this year.
We see Holly and Nick end up truly "fake dating" and the rest is history.
This was a light, fluffy rom-com with a dash of faith added for a time I really needed it. Nick and Holly CRACKED ME UP! The Christmas prank wars if you will were hilarious. But I also loved the layer of seriousness that came towards the end. I like how Betsy didn't make this a "hate on Christmas" book but more of a light, play on disliking the Christmas season because of certain things that occurred in the characters life that made sense. She added so many fun Christmas elements leading up to Christmas Day. Praise God the real meaning behind Christmas was also shared at the end.
Overall, I would recommend for this year's Christmas reading if you want something fun, light hearted and that will make you laugh. Also please read the author's note!
Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary copy to honestly read and review. All thoughts and opinions are are my own.
*content: kisses only, no language, some attraction bits but nothing that bothered me
September 24, 2025
A little too silly for me, but definitely fun for the right reader!
Home for the holidays, Holly Sinclair discovers her brother has brought along his best friend Nick (who, like Holly, also hates Christmas) as her pity date. But see, instead of just maturely confronting the situation, Holly decides to seek revenge and essentially destroy Nick with over-the-top Christmas foolery. Entertaining to read at times, but I just struggled with the absolute ridiculousness of it all.
But the story really did shine in other areas for me! I’m a sucker for a Grinch learning to love Christmas, and I loved, loved, LOVED the huge family setting, where nearly every single character had secrets of their own. Communication is definitely not a theme here. Ha! It’s hilarious chaos upon chaos, full of misunderstandings, until it all inevitably unraveled, of course!
Overall this was super festive and heartwarming, with uplifting messages and light Christian elements. If you’re looking for something sweet, cozy, and a little zany for the holiday season, here you go!
(heat level: kissing only)
Home for the holidays, Holly Sinclair discovers her brother has brought along his best friend Nick (who, like Holly, also hates Christmas) as her pity date. But see, instead of just maturely confronting the situation, Holly decides to seek revenge and essentially destroy Nick with over-the-top Christmas foolery. Entertaining to read at times, but I just struggled with the absolute ridiculousness of it all.
But the story really did shine in other areas for me! I’m a sucker for a Grinch learning to love Christmas, and I loved, loved, LOVED the huge family setting, where nearly every single character had secrets of their own. Communication is definitely not a theme here. Ha! It’s hilarious chaos upon chaos, full of misunderstandings, until it all inevitably unraveled, of course!
Overall this was super festive and heartwarming, with uplifting messages and light Christian elements. If you’re looking for something sweet, cozy, and a little zany for the holiday season, here you go!
(heat level: kissing only)
April 15, 2025
This ARC review has spoiler-ish things.
Thank you for the chance to eARC Holly and Nick Hate Christmas!
I really wanted to love this one. Christmas romances are my favorite, and I was hoping for an almost Hallmark Movie type of feeling, but it fell very flat for me.
I want to start by discussing the heavy references to religion. I understand this is a Christmas time based novel, but there were enough moments where Christianity, praying, and religious values were mentioned that I do think this should also be qualified as Christian fiction. Holly's big, "I don't want to feel this way any more" moment happens with the story of Jesus's being born in the manger in the background, the nativity is brought up a couple times, references to praying for answers, and even a moment between Thomas and Nick where Thomas is telling Nick about the importance of being a ministry to misguided teens and children happens. I was.. very unprepared for this, and I do think it is something that needs to be considered for any readers picking it up. If you love books with religious idealogy, you'll like this. If you don't, you might want to stay away.
My second problem with this book is Nick's goal of opening a camp/ranch for troubled children, and teens feel very out of touch with everything coming out about these camps in real life. I could not shake that ick.
Even if I had, the romance in this felt like a firework that never sets off, and you have to live with being told what it was supposed to do instead of seeing it. The attraction between Holly and Nick is clearly there, but nothing comes from thay fizzle that we as readers genuinely get to hold on to to validate them ending up together in the end. I feel like we were told Holly and Nick were suddenly in love, not shown. And we don't even get to that until well into the book.
There were so many subplots (sick parents mystery, the ranch mystery, Holly's job, her sisters, her brother) that I feel the ability to truly set up a romance between Nick and Holly suffered. There were also far too many attempted twists and gotchas causing that final grand gesture to fall so flat.
There's just a lot going on here that really made this book not for me.
Thank you for the chance to eARC Holly and Nick Hate Christmas!
I really wanted to love this one. Christmas romances are my favorite, and I was hoping for an almost Hallmark Movie type of feeling, but it fell very flat for me.
I want to start by discussing the heavy references to religion. I understand this is a Christmas time based novel, but there were enough moments where Christianity, praying, and religious values were mentioned that I do think this should also be qualified as Christian fiction. Holly's big, "I don't want to feel this way any more" moment happens with the story of Jesus's being born in the manger in the background, the nativity is brought up a couple times, references to praying for answers, and even a moment between Thomas and Nick where Thomas is telling Nick about the importance of being a ministry to misguided teens and children happens. I was.. very unprepared for this, and I do think it is something that needs to be considered for any readers picking it up. If you love books with religious idealogy, you'll like this. If you don't, you might want to stay away.
My second problem with this book is Nick's goal of opening a camp/ranch for troubled children, and teens feel very out of touch with everything coming out about these camps in real life. I could not shake that ick.
Even if I had, the romance in this felt like a firework that never sets off, and you have to live with being told what it was supposed to do instead of seeing it. The attraction between Holly and Nick is clearly there, but nothing comes from thay fizzle that we as readers genuinely get to hold on to to validate them ending up together in the end. I feel like we were told Holly and Nick were suddenly in love, not shown. And we don't even get to that until well into the book.
There were so many subplots (sick parents mystery, the ranch mystery, Holly's job, her sisters, her brother) that I feel the ability to truly set up a romance between Nick and Holly suffered. There were also far too many attempted twists and gotchas causing that final grand gesture to fall so flat.
There's just a lot going on here that really made this book not for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 12, 2025
Thank you Penguin Random House Christian Publishing @waterbrookmultnomah @prhaudio for the ARC & ALC #PRHAudioPartner I loved both formats so much I kept switching back and forth.
Release date: September 16, 2025
Holly Sinclair has always loathed Christmas—her festive name, her overlooked birthday, and now a downsized job prove the season isn’t so merry. Back home single and unemployed, she learns her brother’s best friend Nick is her pity date. Determined to play along, Holly sets out to Christmas harder than ever—revenge, attraction, and family secrets included.
“Maybe hating Christmas together was the most Christmassy thing they’d ever done.”
The only thing Nick and Holly hate more than Christmas is losing their unknowing “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” battle. I loved every second of the Christmas mischief their family stirred up. From the very beginning, the chaos is big, loud, and full of antics—and only gets jollier as Holly’s thirtieth birthday (on Christmas!) approaches. With no job and no romance, she’s home again, leaning on her brother Ryan, who sweetly offers his best friend as her date for the annual Christmas party. But when Holly discovers this golden-retriever man is hiding secrets, her war on Nick begins—and it’s worth pretending to love Christmas for.
I loved how effortlessly the story rolled together. The family drama only added to Holly and Nick’s chemistry, and the way faith shaped their realizations felt natural, not forced. If you enjoy big-family holiday chaos, matchmaking schemes, and witty tinsel-filled banter, this festive farm-set rom-com is one to unwrap.
Perfect for you if you like:
How to Loose a Guy in 10 Days
Meddling relationships
Elf
Blowup santas
Large family Christmas shenanigans
Similar to:
In A Holidaze by Christina Lauren (open door)
Snowed in by Katherine Walsh (open door)
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
⛔️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️strained familial relationships, job loss
Release date: September 16, 2025
Holly Sinclair has always loathed Christmas—her festive name, her overlooked birthday, and now a downsized job prove the season isn’t so merry. Back home single and unemployed, she learns her brother’s best friend Nick is her pity date. Determined to play along, Holly sets out to Christmas harder than ever—revenge, attraction, and family secrets included.
“Maybe hating Christmas together was the most Christmassy thing they’d ever done.”
The only thing Nick and Holly hate more than Christmas is losing their unknowing “How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days” battle. I loved every second of the Christmas mischief their family stirred up. From the very beginning, the chaos is big, loud, and full of antics—and only gets jollier as Holly’s thirtieth birthday (on Christmas!) approaches. With no job and no romance, she’s home again, leaning on her brother Ryan, who sweetly offers his best friend as her date for the annual Christmas party. But when Holly discovers this golden-retriever man is hiding secrets, her war on Nick begins—and it’s worth pretending to love Christmas for.
I loved how effortlessly the story rolled together. The family drama only added to Holly and Nick’s chemistry, and the way faith shaped their realizations felt natural, not forced. If you enjoy big-family holiday chaos, matchmaking schemes, and witty tinsel-filled banter, this festive farm-set rom-com is one to unwrap.
Perfect for you if you like:
How to Loose a Guy in 10 Days
Meddling relationships
Elf
Blowup santas
Large family Christmas shenanigans
Similar to:
In A Holidaze by Christina Lauren (open door)
Snowed in by Katherine Walsh (open door)
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
⛔️closed door romance (kisses only)
⚠️strained familial relationships, job loss
October 4, 2025
What a fun, delightful story to get into the Christmas spirit! I loved this story with all the silliness, misunderstandings, schemes, bickering, secrets, snow, fun and festive events with a large family celebrating Christmas. Holly hates Christmas and so does Nick for different reasons. When Holly's brother Ryan talked her into going home for Christmas for the first time in years and she had just gotten laid off, she said yes. His co-worker Nick let Ryan talk him into going to their home too. Nick is to be Holly's date for a block party but he has other reasons for being there only the siblings' parents know. The other three siblings were not supposed to be there. But they all turned out with their significant others and two grandchildren. Talk about a busting at the seams house. This story has wonderful characters, laugh out loud and touching moments, romance, frustration, hurt, and at the end, the real reason for the season, the true spirit of Christmas-Christ's birth. Highly recommended.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy in exchange for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
October 21, 2025
This was my first book by Betsy St. Amant, and it won’t be my last! It was like a Hallmark Christmas movie in a book! It had family, faith, CHRISTMAS cheer, and romance!! These are all my favorite things to read in a book especially anything Christmas related! I liked reading about Nick and Holly, and how they came to love the Christmas season. They got into some fun holiday shenanigans and brought a smile to my face. Holly was such a relatable character, and I found myself relating to her a lot. I highly recommend this book, and it’s the perfect addition to your bookmas reading this year!! This is best read by a Christmas tree, with a warm drink, and Christmas music playing in the background. Also, can we take a moment for that adorable cover?? 🎄🎄 I am so excited to have this one on my shelves for the Christmas season. Merry Christmas! (it’s basically Christmas right?)
Thank you to Betsy St. Amant for an ARC in return for an honest review!
Thank you to Betsy St. Amant for an ARC in return for an honest review!
October 19, 2025
⛄️ Book Review ⛄️
Thank you to the author for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Holly and Nick Hate Christmas
Author: Betsy St. Amant
Genre: Romcom
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: While Christmas is loved by many people, Holly is not one of them. Being born on Christmas Day has only made the holiday feel insufferable to her, and this year is no different. This year she’s heading home for the holidays with no Christmas spirit, no job, and no love life. Until her brother’s coworker Nick is unexpectedly invited by to come with them as Holly’s date for her parents’ big Christmas Eve party. Nick has his own mysterious reasons for hating Christmas and also for coming to visit Holly’s childhood home. As the two bond of of their mutual loathing for Christmas, their feelings get tangled up in the midst of secrets and schemes. Will this holiday be just another disappointment or can Holly and Nick finally find a little bit of Christmas joy?
Analysis: If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud holiday romance, look no further! I adored this Christmas romcom. It has hilarious pranks, family secrets, and quirky characters (my personal favorite is Axel—you’ll just have to meet him for yourself!). This book is a little bit How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days with its own unique spin. The plot changes quickly, and the characters keep you guessing with what they’ll do next. But, of course, you’ll get that happily ever after! I also loved that even though it’s a light-hearted read, the author brings in the importance of family, selflessness, and the true meaning of Christmas. While the faith thread is subtle, you’ll find the true joy of the season in these pages. It’s the perfect uplifting read for your holiday TBR!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Thank you to the author for this #gifted book!*
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Title: Holly and Nick Hate Christmas
Author: Betsy St. Amant
Genre: Romcom
⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Synopsis: While Christmas is loved by many people, Holly is not one of them. Being born on Christmas Day has only made the holiday feel insufferable to her, and this year is no different. This year she’s heading home for the holidays with no Christmas spirit, no job, and no love life. Until her brother’s coworker Nick is unexpectedly invited by to come with them as Holly’s date for her parents’ big Christmas Eve party. Nick has his own mysterious reasons for hating Christmas and also for coming to visit Holly’s childhood home. As the two bond of of their mutual loathing for Christmas, their feelings get tangled up in the midst of secrets and schemes. Will this holiday be just another disappointment or can Holly and Nick finally find a little bit of Christmas joy?
Analysis: If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud holiday romance, look no further! I adored this Christmas romcom. It has hilarious pranks, family secrets, and quirky characters (my personal favorite is Axel—you’ll just have to meet him for yourself!). This book is a little bit How to Lose a Guy in Ten Days with its own unique spin. The plot changes quickly, and the characters keep you guessing with what they’ll do next. But, of course, you’ll get that happily ever after! I also loved that even though it’s a light-hearted read, the author brings in the importance of family, selflessness, and the true meaning of Christmas. While the faith thread is subtle, you’ll find the true joy of the season in these pages. It’s the perfect uplifting read for your holiday TBR!
Star Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 14, 2025
This was a fun book. I thought it was interesting that both main characters hated Christmas. Nick is coming home with his friend Ryan to be Holly’s date. But he is also there to try and buy Ryan and Holly’s parents’ house. Holly agrees to be Nick’s date after her brother, Ryan, says he really wanted to be her date. Nick figures he can bond with Holly over their hatred for Christmas. But when Holly overhears Ryan and Nick talking that she can’t find out Ryan had to talk Nick into being here she is angry. So she decides to be the most over the top Christmas lover and annoy Nick to no end with Christmas stuff.
This book was hilarious with how Holly “tortured” Nick with Christmas stuff. I was laughing a lot. There also is a fake dating part later in the story, which was fun. I liked Holly and Nick’s relationship after the truth came out, they were a sweet couple. There is quite a bit of lying going on, maybe a touch too much. Just tell the truth! Then they won’t be mad. But then the book would be shorter, I know lol, but maybe just a little less would have still been good. I liked the end with the Christmas story of Jesus’s birth. And Holly realizing that she needed to love Christmas for that reason. Overall, a good story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: he takes off his shirt to scare her off
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
This book was hilarious with how Holly “tortured” Nick with Christmas stuff. I was laughing a lot. There also is a fake dating part later in the story, which was fun. I liked Holly and Nick’s relationship after the truth came out, they were a sweet couple. There is quite a bit of lying going on, maybe a touch too much. Just tell the truth! Then they won’t be mad. But then the book would be shorter, I know lol, but maybe just a little less would have still been good. I liked the end with the Christmas story of Jesus’s birth. And Holly realizing that she needed to love Christmas for that reason. Overall, a good story!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Content: he takes off his shirt to scare her off
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from netgalley. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
August 10, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley, Waterbrook, and Betsy St. Amant for the advanced copy of Holly and Nick Hate Christmas in exchange for an honest review.
Firstly, before going into this book, you should be aware that it is Christian fiction. I don't think that's clear enough, so I just wanted to highlight it in case some people have religious trauma or it's just not what they want to read.
The most annoying thing is, I was actually enjoying reading Holly and Nick Hate Christmas. I thought it was sweet, and I liked the parallels between this and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. But it just got really weird towards the end. I'm struggling to figure out what my exact issue is, as I do recognise that Christmas is a Christian holiday, but I think it was just too overt and a bit sloppily shoe-horned in.
So, unfortunately, this book was enjoyable, but I can't get over how uncomfortable it ended up making me feel.
Firstly, before going into this book, you should be aware that it is Christian fiction. I don't think that's clear enough, so I just wanted to highlight it in case some people have religious trauma or it's just not what they want to read.
The most annoying thing is, I was actually enjoying reading Holly and Nick Hate Christmas. I thought it was sweet, and I liked the parallels between this and How to Lose a Guy in 10 Days. But it just got really weird towards the end. I'm struggling to figure out what my exact issue is, as I do recognise that Christmas is a Christian holiday, but I think it was just too overt and a bit sloppily shoe-horned in.
So, unfortunately, this book was enjoyable, but I can't get over how uncomfortable it ended up making me feel.
September 16, 2025
Super cute!
Holly Sinclair not only has a Christmassy name, but was born on Christmas Day. Her birthday is regularly forgotten, even by her own family. As a teenager she turned into a Scrooge and stopped enjoying anything having to do with Christmas.
Nick Kinsley dislikes Christmas for different reasons, but is equally not enamored with the holiday.
When Holly's brother invites Nick to join the family for the holidays, the escapades begin. Holly's family includes not only her parents and brother, but three sisters as well.
Lots of laughs and plenty of heart in the pages. Enjoyed the multiple movie and song references. Axel was a fabulous secondary character.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Waterbrook for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Holly Sinclair not only has a Christmassy name, but was born on Christmas Day. Her birthday is regularly forgotten, even by her own family. As a teenager she turned into a Scrooge and stopped enjoying anything having to do with Christmas.
Nick Kinsley dislikes Christmas for different reasons, but is equally not enamored with the holiday.
When Holly's brother invites Nick to join the family for the holidays, the escapades begin. Holly's family includes not only her parents and brother, but three sisters as well.
Lots of laughs and plenty of heart in the pages. Enjoyed the multiple movie and song references. Axel was a fabulous secondary character.
My gratitude to the author and publisher Waterbrook for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
September 18, 2025
I knew that I would love this book. The author has such a way of communicating the playful and fun nature of relationships while still keeping a focus on faith and family.
I would like to be a part of the Sinclair family. They are able to be snarky with each other but you know they are there for you.
I loved how Holly tried to put a fun spin on the holidays even though she wasn't a fan. Nick was a swoon-worthy character not just because of his hunky-ness but more importantly because of his concern for teens.
The only reservation I had throughout the book was the lies that were abounding and how that was going to affect the relationships.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
I would like to be a part of the Sinclair family. They are able to be snarky with each other but you know they are there for you.
I loved how Holly tried to put a fun spin on the holidays even though she wasn't a fan. Nick was a swoon-worthy character not just because of his hunky-ness but more importantly because of his concern for teens.
The only reservation I had throughout the book was the lies that were abounding and how that was going to affect the relationships.
Thanks to the author and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.
April 29, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the Arc! Did I read a Christmas book in April? Yes I did and I loved this book so much! This story follows Holly and Nick who both hate Christmas because of past trauma around Christmas time. When holly finds out Nick made a agreement with her brother to be her pretend date for a Christmas party she decides to get revenge on Nick in the form of basically becoming buddy the elf and annoying Nick until he can’t take it. I truly loved this story. I felt like it had a lot of depth for a Christmas story. I loved all the characters and felt all the Christmas vibes! I highly recommend checking this one out when it publishes in September.
September 25, 2025
Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant is a sweet feel-good romantic comedy. Holly Sinclair was born on Christmas and has not enjoyed the holiday for some time. This year her brother, Ryan, is bringing home his friend Nick Kinsley. She discovers he is a pity date and things go poorly from there.
This was a delightful story with such engaging characters. The story was told from Nick and Holly’s point of view and I enjoyed their banter, chemistry and humor. The Sinclair Farm in Ohio was a lovely place to visit and celebrate Christmas with the Sinclair family. The story kept me on my toes with each sibling arriving with a secret and their own agenda. It was a pleasure to get to know the family and the story had a satisfying happy ending. I enjoyed the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-sacrifice.
Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant is a sweet Christmas story to read any time of year. The engaging characters, humor, and relatable themes made this favorite for me. I highly recommend.
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
This was a delightful story with such engaging characters. The story was told from Nick and Holly’s point of view and I enjoyed their banter, chemistry and humor. The Sinclair Farm in Ohio was a lovely place to visit and celebrate Christmas with the Sinclair family. The story kept me on my toes with each sibling arriving with a secret and their own agenda. It was a pleasure to get to know the family and the story had a satisfying happy ending. I enjoyed the themes of forgiveness, redemption, and self-sacrifice.
Holly and Nick Hate Christmas by Betsy St. Amant is a sweet Christmas story to read any time of year. The engaging characters, humor, and relatable themes made this favorite for me. I highly recommend.
I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.
November 22, 2025
2.5, extra half star for Axel
Read
May 29, 2025rtc
December 20, 2025
Cute holiday read🥰
December 2, 2025
2.5 stars. This entire book was one miscommunication plot after the other like…. Just when you think the “operation” is over, another one starts. I’m so sorry but you’re 30 years old pls act like it?? I did love the way everything wrapped up at the end, a good happily ever after. Very much giving Hallmark but not a book I’d recommend.
April 8, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC! Right off the bat I want to say that this book mentioned god/ministries/missionaries - it wasn’t a lot but it was in there and it threw me off and turned me off a bit. Nothing against it but just not for me - I wish this was mentioned in the description or somewhere. The story line was good but I felt like it wasn’t executed properly and there was lack of feelings and emotions involved. It was just an okay book for me, 2.5 rounded up to 3 for me.
It was a dual point of view story but I wish it was more clear when it switched. There’s just something missing from the book and it wasn’t for me.
It was a dual point of view story but I wish it was more clear when it switched. There’s just something missing from the book and it wasn’t for me.
November 22, 2025
3.8 ⭐
[4:20pm — 22/11/2025]
I completely forgot to post my review on this ARC book on my GoodReads and I realised I had everything written down elsewhere, but can’t find it unfortunately since it was on my old phone.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the Author, Betsy St. Amant, and also WaterBrook & Multnomah Publishing for choosing me as an ARC. I’m genuinely grateful and thankful.
Reviewing time :)
It was such a lovely read. I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would and it was comforting to read a book in April about Christmas. And I read it in one night, hence, why I completely forgot about reviewing it lmao. That day was hectic regardless (allow me💔).
I enjoyed the characters but I remember hoping we got something more. A lot felt unfulfilled to me personally but I loved Nick and Holly’s dynamic a lot. Areas such as the plot could be fixed or added on more in detail, but nonetheless, it was amazing.
I might have to do a re read again since it’s winter time. Who knows, maybe the warm weather affected my mood on the book, despite it being comforting.
Lots of love to Holly and Nick <33
[4:30pm — 22/11/2025]
[4:20pm — 22/11/2025]
I completely forgot to post my review on this ARC book on my GoodReads and I realised I had everything written down elsewhere, but can’t find it unfortunately since it was on my old phone.
I would like to thank NetGalley and the Author, Betsy St. Amant, and also WaterBrook & Multnomah Publishing for choosing me as an ARC. I’m genuinely grateful and thankful.
Reviewing time :)
It was such a lovely read. I enjoyed it a lot more than I thought I would and it was comforting to read a book in April about Christmas. And I read it in one night, hence, why I completely forgot about reviewing it lmao. That day was hectic regardless (allow me💔).
I enjoyed the characters but I remember hoping we got something more. A lot felt unfulfilled to me personally but I loved Nick and Holly’s dynamic a lot. Areas such as the plot could be fixed or added on more in detail, but nonetheless, it was amazing.
I might have to do a re read again since it’s winter time. Who knows, maybe the warm weather affected my mood on the book, despite it being comforting.
Lots of love to Holly and Nick <33
[4:30pm — 22/11/2025]
November 24, 2025
3.5 stars. This cover instantly sold me and I knew I had to add this one to my 2025 Christmas TBR! I’m always looking for more closed door romances and this one definitely fit that bill.
Holly Sinclair hates Christmas. So, for this Sinclair family Christmas her big brother decides to bring (a pity date for her) his best friend Nick. Well, Nick has his own reasons for hating Christmas and being with the Sinclairs and when Holly discovers her big bro’s plan, things get reeeeeeal Christmas-y on an enemies to fake dating level!
I ADORED the big family Christmas vibes of this one! As one of 5 siblings myself, I was loving the sibling dynamics.
The romance was really cute, but the depth and time watching their feelings develop just didn’t completely do it for me. I felt like all the troupes and storylines overshadowed the romance a bit. I really enjoyed the last fourth of the book though and this is still a book I would recommend to so many readers!! Especially for that cozy Christmas vibe.
Spice level: closed door
Thank you WaterBrook & Multnomah and Netgalley for the egalley!!
Holly Sinclair hates Christmas. So, for this Sinclair family Christmas her big brother decides to bring (a pity date for her) his best friend Nick. Well, Nick has his own reasons for hating Christmas and being with the Sinclairs and when Holly discovers her big bro’s plan, things get reeeeeeal Christmas-y on an enemies to fake dating level!
I ADORED the big family Christmas vibes of this one! As one of 5 siblings myself, I was loving the sibling dynamics.
The romance was really cute, but the depth and time watching their feelings develop just didn’t completely do it for me. I felt like all the troupes and storylines overshadowed the romance a bit. I really enjoyed the last fourth of the book though and this is still a book I would recommend to so many readers!! Especially for that cozy Christmas vibe.
Spice level: closed door
Thank you WaterBrook & Multnomah and Netgalley for the egalley!!
December 15, 2025
What a wonderful Christmas romcom! I have a new favorite book by Betsy St. Amant! I loved this adorable fake dating, brother’s best friend romance! Holly and Nick are both so great and the character growth they both experienced throughout the story was absolutely fantastic! I also loved Holly’s family, and all the holiday traditions! One of my favorite things about this book was the faith message and the way the true meaning of Christmas was spotlighted, beautifully done! If you’re looking for a book with fun Hallmark-y vibes but also a lot of depth to the story then this is the perfect book for you!
I seriously loved absolutely everything about this book and most highly recommend you add it to your Christmas reads! Seriously, this is one you do not wanna miss!
Oh, and the audiobook narrator is fantastic!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but I also purchased an audiobook copy with my own money!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
I seriously loved absolutely everything about this book and most highly recommend you add it to your Christmas reads! Seriously, this is one you do not wanna miss!
Oh, and the audiobook narrator is fantastic!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, but I also purchased an audiobook copy with my own money!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
December 19, 2025
My brother’s name is Nick and his daughter’s name is Holly so obviously I had to read Holly and Nick Hate Christmas!!🤭🎄
I was torn between 3 and 3.5 but ultimately decided on 3…nothing about it stood out *enough* for me, so it’ll probably fade/blur into every other holiday novel!🤷♀️
HOWEVER I do think this would make a really good movie! It’s got a big family, a scene where all secrets are revealed in a mix up that has everyone confessing things on accident, holiday pranks, holiday hate (and love), and a classic “I think he’s into me oh wait he’s not here for me but he made me think he was let me get back at him oh wait we like each other oh wait let’s fake date to get revenge oh we want to real date” thing. Is that a classic?🤪 like I said, could be a movie!
Just a note : this is a relatively overt Christian novel! I didn’t know that going into it, and saw a lot of other reviews surprised by this too, so just wanted to point that out as an FYI!
I was torn between 3 and 3.5 but ultimately decided on 3…nothing about it stood out *enough* for me, so it’ll probably fade/blur into every other holiday novel!🤷♀️
HOWEVER I do think this would make a really good movie! It’s got a big family, a scene where all secrets are revealed in a mix up that has everyone confessing things on accident, holiday pranks, holiday hate (and love), and a classic “I think he’s into me oh wait he’s not here for me but he made me think he was let me get back at him oh wait we like each other oh wait let’s fake date to get revenge oh we want to real date” thing. Is that a classic?🤪 like I said, could be a movie!
Just a note : this is a relatively overt Christian novel! I didn’t know that going into it, and saw a lot of other reviews surprised by this too, so just wanted to point that out as an FYI!
December 19, 2025
While I'm not big on the cheesier side of romance in books, it did make me giggle a couple of times. I do think that it would be a great read for people who enjoy the cheesier side of romance. I'm just not the target audience. I loved the reminder of what Christmas is truly about and the author's note at the end.
December 12, 2025
This is really cute and really clean. I like how it unravels into the real gift of the season being Jesus.
It’s chaotic, but I really like a bit of absurdity.
The FMC admittedly got on my nerves, as did the overuse of the term “my dream” as a future career choice. I’m far too cynical and practical for all that noise.
A fun, Christian Christmas romcom that involves an entire family. FOTMS: 🫑
It’s chaotic, but I really like a bit of absurdity.
The FMC admittedly got on my nerves, as did the overuse of the term “my dream” as a future career choice. I’m far too cynical and practical for all that noise.
A fun, Christian Christmas romcom that involves an entire family. FOTMS: 🫑
December 3, 2025
i liked this but nothing stood out to me unfortunately. it was an easy christmas read and i liked the family dynamic but it was the same plot as any other christmas book.
December 22, 2025
I love two things: Horror and Hallmark Christmas. This meets the latter to a T. It's sooooo adorable with well-drawn characters and cute banter.
December 1, 2025
I liked this and while there was nothing outlandish or oh my gosh-ish about it, it was a good, heartfelt Christmas story, like a Hallmark movie. (And as always, the redhead cliches were everywhere).
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