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A Winter Wish
When an unexpected inheritance forces two total opposites to work together, Lexie must decide if Theo is going to push her out—or pull her in for the kiss of a lifetime—in this heartwarming holiday novel from the author of Always, in December and One Last Gift
When Lexie learns of her father’s death, she doesn’t know how to feel; they've barely spoken in the last ten years. And she feels even more confused when she discovers he’s left her half of his successful holiday travel company. The other half of the company has been left to her father’s young executive, Theo. And the will stipulates that the two of them must find a way to run the company successfully together for a year, or sell now and walk away with nothing. Theo isn’t thrilled to be working alongside someone who knows nothing about the business, and Lexie isn’t thrilled to be working with an uptight stick-in-the-mud. As a result, the two decide that Lexie can play the part of silent partner so they don't have to work together too intimately. But “silent” has never been a good word to describe Lexie. And as a traveler herself, she finds the company to be It specializes in trips that explore the holiday traditions of cultures all over the world. And when the company decides to scout a French lemon festival as a potential new offering, a certain delightfully meddlesome assistant contrives to make sure both Theo and Lexie attend, giving them plenty of quality time together in the gorgeous French countryside. Soon Lexie and Theo begin to realize there may have been some snap judgements made about each other. But as Lexie knows, mixing business and pleasure isn’t always a good idea...
When Lexie learns of her father’s death, she doesn’t know how to feel; they've barely spoken in the last ten years. And she feels even more confused when she discovers he’s left her half of his successful holiday travel company. The other half of the company has been left to her father’s young executive, Theo. And the will stipulates that the two of them must find a way to run the company successfully together for a year, or sell now and walk away with nothing. Theo isn’t thrilled to be working alongside someone who knows nothing about the business, and Lexie isn’t thrilled to be working with an uptight stick-in-the-mud. As a result, the two decide that Lexie can play the part of silent partner so they don't have to work together too intimately. But “silent” has never been a good word to describe Lexie. And as a traveler herself, she finds the company to be It specializes in trips that explore the holiday traditions of cultures all over the world. And when the company decides to scout a French lemon festival as a potential new offering, a certain delightfully meddlesome assistant contrives to make sure both Theo and Lexie attend, giving them plenty of quality time together in the gorgeous French countryside. Soon Lexie and Theo begin to realize there may have been some snap judgements made about each other. But as Lexie knows, mixing business and pleasure isn’t always a good idea...
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First published October 15, 2024
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About the author
Emily Stone
5 books1,543 followersHello, I'm Emily! If you've found this page then welcome, and thanks so much for showing an interest in my writing.
If you read my novel then I really hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you want to get in touch then I'd love to hear from you - I've just joined Twitter, so come and say hello! (@EmStoneWrites)
If you read my novel then I really hope you enjoy reading it as much as I enjoyed writing it. If you want to get in touch then I'd love to hear from you - I've just joined Twitter, so come and say hello! (@EmStoneWrites)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,356 reviews
October 15, 2024
Lexie was shocked to discover that she had inherited half of her father’s holiday travel company, R & L Travel -See the World through Celebration!
After all, they have hardly spoken over the last 10 years.
It is a successful niche business specializing in trips that explore the holiday traditions of cultures all over the world-something they used to do as a family each Christmas-until he left and started a new family with another woman.
The other half of the company has been left to Theo-her father’s good looking young executive. The will stipulates that the two of them must find a way to run the company together for a year AND turn a profit, before deciding whether or not to sell.
He wants to keep it. She wants to sell.
Can he change her mind in time?
I always look forward to Emily Stone’s holiday romances, but this wasn’t a favorite-Perhaps it is because the ENEMIES to LOVERS trope is a hard sell for me.
How does a person almost instantly fall in love with someone who is self admittedly usually acting like a petulant child? It’s NOT an attractive quality.
This isn’t a bad story BUT although the travel company idea sounds wonderful, and Lexie shows some personal growth by the end of the book-this just didn’t quite work as a romance for me!
The journey/anticipation wasn’t all that entertaining, I didn’t “FEEL” any chemistry between Lexie and Theo, and I WASN’T rooting for them to get together as a couple which are three MUSTS in any romance novel.
But, I am still a fan of the authors work, and will look forward to whatever she pens next!
And, what a gorgeous cover!
A buddy read with DeAnn. Be sure to watch for her review and to see if she offers a different perspective!
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank You to Dell for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
After all, they have hardly spoken over the last 10 years.
It is a successful niche business specializing in trips that explore the holiday traditions of cultures all over the world-something they used to do as a family each Christmas-until he left and started a new family with another woman.
The other half of the company has been left to Theo-her father’s good looking young executive. The will stipulates that the two of them must find a way to run the company together for a year AND turn a profit, before deciding whether or not to sell.
He wants to keep it. She wants to sell.
Can he change her mind in time?
I always look forward to Emily Stone’s holiday romances, but this wasn’t a favorite-Perhaps it is because the ENEMIES to LOVERS trope is a hard sell for me.
How does a person almost instantly fall in love with someone who is self admittedly usually acting like a petulant child? It’s NOT an attractive quality.
This isn’t a bad story BUT although the travel company idea sounds wonderful, and Lexie shows some personal growth by the end of the book-this just didn’t quite work as a romance for me!
The journey/anticipation wasn’t all that entertaining, I didn’t “FEEL” any chemistry between Lexie and Theo, and I WASN’T rooting for them to get together as a couple which are three MUSTS in any romance novel.
But, I am still a fan of the authors work, and will look forward to whatever she pens next!
And, what a gorgeous cover!
A buddy read with DeAnn. Be sure to watch for her review and to see if she offers a different perspective!
NOW AVAILABLE
Thank You to Dell for the gifted ARC provided through NetGalley. As always, these are my candid thoughts.
October 14, 2024
Emily Stone writes books which t tend to bring up strong emotions in me, Always, in December anyone? That was a cry-o-rama for me. So thankful for Kleenex, just saying. I enjoy her characters, how they are dealing with tough issues, and find comfort from those in their lives whether that be a longtime friend, family member, or someone they have just met. I was so excited to get a copy of A Winter Wish. I adore the cover. Seriously, how cute is that?
Lexie is shocked when her estranged father passes away and leaves her half of his holiday travel business. Even more shocking is that he leaves the other half of the company to Theo, a young executive who worked for him. You know there is going to be angst. I knew there was going to be chemistry and with a holiday travel company involved, I knew there were going to be fabulous trips mentioned. The trips mentioned in this book did in fact sound fantastic!
While I enjoyed the characters and the enemies to loves trope but sadly, I didn't love this one. I so wanted to do so. This is not a bad book by any means. I found it to be quite enjoyable, but there was a little bit of a spark that was missing which would have garnered a higher star rating from me.
What worked for me was how the author showed Lexie's feelings about her father, the estrangement, feeling abandoned, while wanting to learn the ropes. She had a way with people such as the woman traveling alone for the first time, which I appreciated.
While A Winter Wish was enjoyable and a worthwhile read, I didn't love it. We can't love them all, but I will still be on the lookout for any new books that Emily Stone writes as I have loved the other books, she wrote that I have read.
Thank you to Goodreads, Ballantine | Dell and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Lexie is shocked when her estranged father passes away and leaves her half of his holiday travel business. Even more shocking is that he leaves the other half of the company to Theo, a young executive who worked for him. You know there is going to be angst. I knew there was going to be chemistry and with a holiday travel company involved, I knew there were going to be fabulous trips mentioned. The trips mentioned in this book did in fact sound fantastic!
While I enjoyed the characters and the enemies to loves trope but sadly, I didn't love this one. I so wanted to do so. This is not a bad book by any means. I found it to be quite enjoyable, but there was a little bit of a spark that was missing which would have garnered a higher star rating from me.
What worked for me was how the author showed Lexie's feelings about her father, the estrangement, feeling abandoned, while wanting to learn the ropes. She had a way with people such as the woman traveling alone for the first time, which I appreciated.
While A Winter Wish was enjoyable and a worthwhile read, I didn't love it. We can't love them all, but I will still be on the lookout for any new books that Emily Stone writes as I have loved the other books, she wrote that I have read.
Thank you to Goodreads, Ballantine | Dell and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
November 2, 2024
**Many thanks to NetGalley, Random House - Ballantine, and Emily Stone for an ARC of this book!**
Lexie doesn't really know how to feel when she learns her father has passed away...is it grief, shock, or something else entirely? After all, she hadn't spoken to her dad in almost ten years, after his choice to remarry and start a new life with his 'new' family. Lexie has been trying to focus all her energy into manifesting her own life, and hasn't even really interacted with her half sister Rachel...until this shared tragedy brings them together. Amidst all of THIS inner turmoil and confusion, she is hit with some big news that could change her life forever: Lexie's father has left part of his company, R and L Travel, to her. And since this company specializes in holiday-themed travel, where guests get to experience some of the world's most beautiful and unique holiday traditions, it seems like this COULD be a dream come true.
But there's also some fine print...if Lexie can successfully CO-run the company with one other owner for one year, the two of them can then jointly decide the future of the company. This doesn't sound too bad, until Lexie finds out who owns the other half of the company: her father's grumpy yet somehow-still-frustratingly-attractive exec, Theo. The two begrudgingly agree to put their initial snappiness toward one another aside and attempt to see how the year goes, while they take this opportunity to explore the world together in the honor of Lexie's father and the company he spent so many years building. But when what first seemed like frustration starts to feel more like uh, a different kind of frustration, and their relationship moves into different 'territory', has fate brought them together for ANOTHER reason? Could her father's last wish have led Lexie to find a new kind of wish fulfillment all on her own? Or will Lexie's grief and conflicted feelings about the dad who abandoned her keep her from truly taking a leap and keep her firmly stuck in the past...and TRULY on her own?
I've been hearing about the fabulous Emily Stone for quite a while now, but have been hesitant to pick up any of her books because from what I had heard, they normally mixed two elements I don't EVER voluntarily want mixing: grief, and Christmas. Not only are these two ideas diametrically opposed in any normal situation....throwing in a ROMANCE on top of all of that seemed like a bit of a mish-mosh in my mind. But nevertheless, I was intrigued and anxious to check out the strong writing and enticing holiday stories I'd been hearing about from trusted reviewer friends for years...so much so, that when I was offered an early copy of this one, I broke my OWN rule and read a holiday themed book prior to December 1st. 😱 ( Gasp! )
And as sad as I am to confirm it...there's a reason I don't pack away boxes of tissues with my Christmas ornaments: this particular Christma-romance Latte with a heavy dose of Grief Sprinkles on top was NOT exactly the kind of early holiday beverage I'd hoped to have...and I just wasn't a fan of the flavor.
The reason to me is simple: this book didn't need to be a romance...at all. I understand the premise of a holiday story (particularly in the context of the business that REVOLVED around holiday traditions!) but there was just something about the whole Lexie-Theo relationship that just felt completely off...you know, like a busted Christmas light that makes the whole strand go dark. (At least, back in the old days!) I know this is supposed to be a enemies-to-lovers romance, but these two just didn't really fit as a pair in any respect from the first page on. Their initial interactions didn't have that 'spark' that felt more like banter, and they didn't even have that much in COMMON aside from family trauma, which to be honest, doth not a romantic relationship make. It's hard for me to think of anything LESS romantic than that, honestly. Not to mention, having crappy or unsupportive parents doesn't really make up for you acting like a man child. (One guess who I'm referring to...and I hope that's all you'd need!)
And another part of the reason I had SO much trouble with buy-in in regards to this particular relationship was simple: you just SHOULDN'T. DATE. YOUR. COWORKERS. Not mixing business with pleasure is more than just good advice; it's HR POLICY at companies all over the world. Not only does it feel like bad form, in this particular situation it was FAR more complicated, since these two strangers essentially went from not knowing each other to running a company together...but there was FAMILY involved. Seriously, I don't think the author could have created a messier situation for these two if she'd tried. Even if these two felt like they just HAD to be together (or even just to hook up), the fact that they couldn't see the forest for the trees and keep things professional sort of pointed to the fact that perhaps they WEREN'T really ready to run the company together...or at all.
But the main reason this book felt like such a holiday downer (and where it missed the opportunity to grow, breathe, and develop) was that SO much of it was focused on the family trauma that sort of got these characters where they were in the first place. Lexie needed to deal with her abandonment issues, and this alone would have been fodder for its own novel. Making the 'antidote' to her daddy issues a man-child of sorts just seemed like a strange choice. 🤔 Lexie also meets Rachel, her half sister, who is definitely a more likable and complex character, but even this budding sister relationship is forced to take a back seat time and time again...so we can fit in long descriptions of the various holiday trips. As someone who would quite willingly give R and L Travel ALL my fictional money in the also-fictional scenario where I am a millionaire and can afford it, I expected this to be my favorite part of the book, but I felt like I was being told about the traditions more than really FEELING them, and amidst all of the grief and strife, there was a large disconnect between the holiday joy I'd hoped to feel and the grim reality of this holiday hodgepodge.
And while I don't completely regret the chance I took by having an early 'holiday horchata,' you'd better believe I'll be WAITING for my first delicious Peppermint Mocha read until that perfect, snowy, sweater weather day...you know, the one that is 'Always, in December.'
😏
3.5 stars
Lexie doesn't really know how to feel when she learns her father has passed away...is it grief, shock, or something else entirely? After all, she hadn't spoken to her dad in almost ten years, after his choice to remarry and start a new life with his 'new' family. Lexie has been trying to focus all her energy into manifesting her own life, and hasn't even really interacted with her half sister Rachel...until this shared tragedy brings them together. Amidst all of THIS inner turmoil and confusion, she is hit with some big news that could change her life forever: Lexie's father has left part of his company, R and L Travel, to her. And since this company specializes in holiday-themed travel, where guests get to experience some of the world's most beautiful and unique holiday traditions, it seems like this COULD be a dream come true.
But there's also some fine print...if Lexie can successfully CO-run the company with one other owner for one year, the two of them can then jointly decide the future of the company. This doesn't sound too bad, until Lexie finds out who owns the other half of the company: her father's grumpy yet somehow-still-frustratingly-attractive exec, Theo. The two begrudgingly agree to put their initial snappiness toward one another aside and attempt to see how the year goes, while they take this opportunity to explore the world together in the honor of Lexie's father and the company he spent so many years building. But when what first seemed like frustration starts to feel more like uh, a different kind of frustration, and their relationship moves into different 'territory', has fate brought them together for ANOTHER reason? Could her father's last wish have led Lexie to find a new kind of wish fulfillment all on her own? Or will Lexie's grief and conflicted feelings about the dad who abandoned her keep her from truly taking a leap and keep her firmly stuck in the past...and TRULY on her own?
I've been hearing about the fabulous Emily Stone for quite a while now, but have been hesitant to pick up any of her books because from what I had heard, they normally mixed two elements I don't EVER voluntarily want mixing: grief, and Christmas. Not only are these two ideas diametrically opposed in any normal situation....throwing in a ROMANCE on top of all of that seemed like a bit of a mish-mosh in my mind. But nevertheless, I was intrigued and anxious to check out the strong writing and enticing holiday stories I'd been hearing about from trusted reviewer friends for years...so much so, that when I was offered an early copy of this one, I broke my OWN rule and read a holiday themed book prior to December 1st. 😱 ( Gasp! )
And as sad as I am to confirm it...there's a reason I don't pack away boxes of tissues with my Christmas ornaments: this particular Christma-romance Latte with a heavy dose of Grief Sprinkles on top was NOT exactly the kind of early holiday beverage I'd hoped to have...and I just wasn't a fan of the flavor.
The reason to me is simple: this book didn't need to be a romance...at all. I understand the premise of a holiday story (particularly in the context of the business that REVOLVED around holiday traditions!) but there was just something about the whole Lexie-Theo relationship that just felt completely off...you know, like a busted Christmas light that makes the whole strand go dark. (At least, back in the old days!) I know this is supposed to be a enemies-to-lovers romance, but these two just didn't really fit as a pair in any respect from the first page on. Their initial interactions didn't have that 'spark' that felt more like banter, and they didn't even have that much in COMMON aside from family trauma, which to be honest, doth not a romantic relationship make. It's hard for me to think of anything LESS romantic than that, honestly. Not to mention, having crappy or unsupportive parents doesn't really make up for you acting like a man child. (One guess who I'm referring to...and I hope that's all you'd need!)
And another part of the reason I had SO much trouble with buy-in in regards to this particular relationship was simple: you just SHOULDN'T. DATE. YOUR. COWORKERS. Not mixing business with pleasure is more than just good advice; it's HR POLICY at companies all over the world. Not only does it feel like bad form, in this particular situation it was FAR more complicated, since these two strangers essentially went from not knowing each other to running a company together...but there was FAMILY involved. Seriously, I don't think the author could have created a messier situation for these two if she'd tried. Even if these two felt like they just HAD to be together (or even just to hook up), the fact that they couldn't see the forest for the trees and keep things professional sort of pointed to the fact that perhaps they WEREN'T really ready to run the company together...or at all.
But the main reason this book felt like such a holiday downer (and where it missed the opportunity to grow, breathe, and develop) was that SO much of it was focused on the family trauma that sort of got these characters where they were in the first place. Lexie needed to deal with her abandonment issues, and this alone would have been fodder for its own novel. Making the 'antidote' to her daddy issues a man-child of sorts just seemed like a strange choice. 🤔 Lexie also meets Rachel, her half sister, who is definitely a more likable and complex character, but even this budding sister relationship is forced to take a back seat time and time again...so we can fit in long descriptions of the various holiday trips. As someone who would quite willingly give R and L Travel ALL my fictional money in the also-fictional scenario where I am a millionaire and can afford it, I expected this to be my favorite part of the book, but I felt like I was being told about the traditions more than really FEELING them, and amidst all of the grief and strife, there was a large disconnect between the holiday joy I'd hoped to feel and the grim reality of this holiday hodgepodge.
And while I don't completely regret the chance I took by having an early 'holiday horchata,' you'd better believe I'll be WAITING for my first delicious Peppermint Mocha read until that perfect, snowy, sweater weather day...you know, the one that is 'Always, in December.'
😏
3.5 stars
December 28, 2024
as someone who had literally been nowhere and really wants to travel to more places - this book was educational, yet sweet and heartwarming at the same time.
theo and lexie are thrown together when lexie’s dad dies and leaves his company to both of them. theo, was one of his top employees. lexie, wqs his eldest daughter.
throughout this book, we find out more about lexie and her dads relationship.
the people in this book are not perfect. in fact, theo and lexie did NOT get along till about halfway through the book. lexie has a lot of unresolved daddy issues, and let’s not even bring up her relationship with her half sister Rachel.
I loved reading about theo and lexie falling in love, lexie and rachel developing an actual relationship, and let’s not forget lexie coming to terms with her dad even if it’s too late to fix their relationship.
this book was so good 💚
theo and lexie are thrown together when lexie’s dad dies and leaves his company to both of them. theo, was one of his top employees. lexie, wqs his eldest daughter.
throughout this book, we find out more about lexie and her dads relationship.
the people in this book are not perfect. in fact, theo and lexie did NOT get along till about halfway through the book. lexie has a lot of unresolved daddy issues, and let’s not even bring up her relationship with her half sister Rachel.
I loved reading about theo and lexie falling in love, lexie and rachel developing an actual relationship, and let’s not forget lexie coming to terms with her dad even if it’s too late to fix their relationship.
this book was so good 💚
December 19, 2025
My Hallmark Holiday book frenzy continues- 🎄🎅🏻
September 7, 2024
I wanted to DNF this book several times, but unfortunately my perseverance did not pay off. The FMC, Lexie, definitely has avoidant attachment type issues. The cause of those issues are valid but it’s basically her entire personality in this book. I just wanted to shake her, despite how much I sympathized with her. Theo, the MMC, is bland. The only person I actually wanted to read more about was Rachel, Lexie’s half sister. I think her character arc would have made a much more interesting story between her guilt/grief about her father, her strained relationship with her mom, and the fall out of her romantic relationship.
I received an ARC of this book for free from NetGalley, but this did not impact my rating/review. This book is scheduled to be released on October 15, 2024.
I received an ARC of this book for free from NetGalley, but this did not impact my rating/review. This book is scheduled to be released on October 15, 2024.
March 11, 2025
An inheritance forces two rivals to work together before deciding what should become of the travel company they both love. But as Lexie and Theo work to make their company as successful as possible before either keeping it or selling it, they realize their preconceived ideas of one another don’t quite fit with reality.
I anxiously await Emily Stone’s holiday book each and every fall because a. they usually encompass the true spirit of the holidays b. always make me cry my eyes out. Her newest release felt a bit different than her previous books, predominantly because it leaned much more romance with a side of fiction than emotional fiction with a side of romance. While I can see how that might have left some readers feeling disappointed, I actually found myself really enjoying the witty banter and swoony romance in this enemies-to-lovers rom-com. Was it my favorite book ever? No. Was it my favorite of hers? No. But did I enjoy a break from the emotional upheaval her books usually bring? Most definitely. In my book, Emily Stone can really do no wrong, and I look forward to this year’s much-anticipated holiday release.
🎧 Of note, I usually gravitate towards the audiobooks when it comes to her work. The accents are gorgeous, the narration terrific, and this audiobook, with Meg Travers at the helm, was equally excellent.
Thank you Random House/Dell and PRH Audio for the gifted copies.
I anxiously await Emily Stone’s holiday book each and every fall because a. they usually encompass the true spirit of the holidays b. always make me cry my eyes out. Her newest release felt a bit different than her previous books, predominantly because it leaned much more romance with a side of fiction than emotional fiction with a side of romance. While I can see how that might have left some readers feeling disappointed, I actually found myself really enjoying the witty banter and swoony romance in this enemies-to-lovers rom-com. Was it my favorite book ever? No. Was it my favorite of hers? No. But did I enjoy a break from the emotional upheaval her books usually bring? Most definitely. In my book, Emily Stone can really do no wrong, and I look forward to this year’s much-anticipated holiday release.
🎧 Of note, I usually gravitate towards the audiobooks when it comes to her work. The accents are gorgeous, the narration terrific, and this audiobook, with Meg Travers at the helm, was equally excellent.
Thank you Random House/Dell and PRH Audio for the gifted copies.
May 14, 2024
I've read every Emily Stone book as she is a go to favorite. Always in December is one of my favorite holiday reads.
That being said, I'm a little sad that her latest A Winter Wish seemed to veer off her normal writing.
Lexie is a world seeking wanderer. Never to stay in one place for too long, she travels the globe taking seasonal or temporary jobs. After her estranged father dies, she finds out he has left her half of his travel agency business, to be split with his business partner Theo, if after a year, they can turn a profit, she can either keep it or have to sell it.
Of course, fireworks ensue, despite the fact they're the usual enemies turned lovers.
Sounds like such a promising storyline, but unfortunately, A Winter Wish lacked substance and chemistry. It lacked depth and felt the relationship was forced, which is what makes a romance novel fresh and unique.
The side characters were not compelling, and the travel agency setting seemed dated and not something I would generally think would be a main plot point given it's 2024 (who still uses a travel agency?).
I ended up skimming through to the end, and it pains me to say it, was almost a DNF.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC!
That being said, I'm a little sad that her latest A Winter Wish seemed to veer off her normal writing.
Lexie is a world seeking wanderer. Never to stay in one place for too long, she travels the globe taking seasonal or temporary jobs. After her estranged father dies, she finds out he has left her half of his travel agency business, to be split with his business partner Theo, if after a year, they can turn a profit, she can either keep it or have to sell it.
Of course, fireworks ensue, despite the fact they're the usual enemies turned lovers.
Sounds like such a promising storyline, but unfortunately, A Winter Wish lacked substance and chemistry. It lacked depth and felt the relationship was forced, which is what makes a romance novel fresh and unique.
The side characters were not compelling, and the travel agency setting seemed dated and not something I would generally think would be a main plot point given it's 2024 (who still uses a travel agency?).
I ended up skimming through to the end, and it pains me to say it, was almost a DNF.
Thanks Netgalley for the ARC!
September 11, 2024
Rounding up for goodreads
⭐️⭐️💫
You know Emily is my annual go to Christmas author but this one was a huge miss for me. Lacked emotion and depth.
⭐️⭐️💫
You know Emily is my annual go to Christmas author but this one was a huge miss for me. Lacked emotion and depth.
October 15, 2024
I loved every sizzling page of this holiday romance! There is a depth to this book that is often lacking in holiday romance novels, as complicated emotions and relationships drove this story. Lexie and Theo both have deep-rooted issues regarding their parents, but it’s each of their relationships with her father that are at the heart of it all. I loved these two, and felt like the air crackled with electricity every time they were near each other. Their feelings were so raw whether they were antagonizing each other, making each other laugh, or opening up to each other, and my own heart wept and celebrated with them. This also isn’t a holiday romance that takes place over one Christmas season; their story is a full year of love and heartache and mistakes and vulnerability and complications, and, of course, love. I’m grateful to the publisher for providing and advance reader copy of this book.
July 20, 2024
I received a free copy of, Home Again for Christmas, by Emily Stone, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Lexie is always on the go, but she keeps a sacred tradition from her childhood. When Lexie dad dies, he leaves half the company to her, and half to Theo. I really liked Lexie and the traveling parts of this book. Its an enjoyable holiday read.
November 8, 2024
This holiday romance is sweet and emotional with a lot more plot than romance. These travel, drama, and a closed door romance.
# A Winter Wish
# 11/3/2024 ~ 11/4/2024
# 4.0 / 5.0
# A Winter Wish
# 11/3/2024 ~ 11/4/2024
# 4.0 / 5.0
October 17, 2024
I don’t want to say too much for fear of giving away all of A WINTER WISH but once I started reading this beautiful and heartbreaking story, I could not stop! Everyone should have this unforgettable book on their reading list if you don’t already. The dialogue between Theo and Lexie is just hysterical. There is so much pain in this story and in Lexie’s heart that I was crying like a baby while reading but mostly when I was finished! I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters from page one and I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart-tugging author.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
You can read my complete review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Fresh Fiction. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
You can read my complete review at:
https://freshfiction.com/review.php?i...
December 5, 2024
Thank you #partners @randomhouse & @prhaudio for my #gifted copies 🎄
A Winter Wish
Emily Stone
When the owner of a holiday travel company passes away, he wills his business to his estranged daughter and the handsome but broody young exec who works for him. Lexie and Theo must run the company together for a year before deciding whether or not to sell. Unfortunately, they don't exactly get along, and spending a year together is the last thing either of them wants. But as Lexie and Theo get to know each other, the chemistry between them becomes undeniable.
Emily Stone is my favorite holiday romance author. She never fails to deliver a touching story that tugs all the heartstrings, and this one is no exception. In A Winter Wish, Stone pens a romantic, emotional story about grief, love, family, and personal growth, resulting in a well-rounded blend of romance and contemporary fiction.
🎧 I listened along with the audiobook, and British narrator Meg Travers is wonderful! She has a soft, pleasant voice that fits so well with Emily's storytelling. I'll be seeking out others narrated by Travers!
A Winter Wish
Emily Stone
When the owner of a holiday travel company passes away, he wills his business to his estranged daughter and the handsome but broody young exec who works for him. Lexie and Theo must run the company together for a year before deciding whether or not to sell. Unfortunately, they don't exactly get along, and spending a year together is the last thing either of them wants. But as Lexie and Theo get to know each other, the chemistry between them becomes undeniable.
Emily Stone is my favorite holiday romance author. She never fails to deliver a touching story that tugs all the heartstrings, and this one is no exception. In A Winter Wish, Stone pens a romantic, emotional story about grief, love, family, and personal growth, resulting in a well-rounded blend of romance and contemporary fiction.
🎧 I listened along with the audiobook, and British narrator Meg Travers is wonderful! She has a soft, pleasant voice that fits so well with Emily's storytelling. I'll be seeking out others narrated by Travers!
December 15, 2024
THE GOOD:
A sweet novel of reconciling with your past and learning it’s okay to make a better future instead of running from it.
Lexie is sweet but hurt, and Theo is proud and angry, but through each other, they both find a stronger purpose and a road to a brighter and happier days.
Side character Ange is a total hoot and a great guiding hand for all - the steady voice of reason with a side of quirky.
Strong cast of supporting characters.
The characters travel to many locales in Europe that are just gorgeous and really stroke that travel bug! The descriptions of the city of Bath are just lovely as well.
A happy ending tale that sweeps you up with both smiles and tears as it concludes.
THE BAD:
A few too many f-bombs for my taste.
The sex scenes, while not graphically steamy, are a bit descriptive, and not fade-to-black style.
There is a female/female same-sex relationship with one of the supporting side characters.
I would change the cover as it doesn’t reflect the story at all. And change the name too - perhaps The Wishing Jar or maybe something that reflects Lexie’s relationship (or lack thereof) with her father.
The required stumbling block for Lexie and Theo
as we reach the story’s climax is a bit obvious and predictable, but perhaps still the right call.
OTHER NOTES:
I wouldn’t necessarily call this a holiday novel. It does start and end in the month of December. But there are lots of beautiful parts in Spring, Summer, and Fall as well.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended. Bring the tissues near the end and have a happy cry!
A sweet novel of reconciling with your past and learning it’s okay to make a better future instead of running from it.
Lexie is sweet but hurt, and Theo is proud and angry, but through each other, they both find a stronger purpose and a road to a brighter and happier days.
Side character Ange is a total hoot and a great guiding hand for all - the steady voice of reason with a side of quirky.
Strong cast of supporting characters.
The characters travel to many locales in Europe that are just gorgeous and really stroke that travel bug! The descriptions of the city of Bath are just lovely as well.
A happy ending tale that sweeps you up with both smiles and tears as it concludes.
THE BAD:
A few too many f-bombs for my taste.
The sex scenes, while not graphically steamy, are a bit descriptive, and not fade-to-black style.
There is a female/female same-sex relationship with one of the supporting side characters.
I would change the cover as it doesn’t reflect the story at all. And change the name too - perhaps The Wishing Jar or maybe something that reflects Lexie’s relationship (or lack thereof) with her father.
The required stumbling block for Lexie and Theo
as we reach the story’s climax is a bit obvious and predictable, but perhaps still the right call.
OTHER NOTES:
I wouldn’t necessarily call this a holiday novel. It does start and end in the month of December. But there are lots of beautiful parts in Spring, Summer, and Fall as well.
CONCLUSION:
Recommended. Bring the tissues near the end and have a happy cry!
November 20, 2024
this book is NOT about christmas. don't be fooled.
i really wanted a cute christmas read, but this book takes place over the course of a year, beginning and ending at christmas. it wasnt necessarily bad, but it was bland. i didnt really care about any of the characters or anything that was going on, and i just had to force myself to finish it to get it over with. maybe i would have liked it more if i was expecting it not to be a christmas read? i dont know.
i also feel like the romance was just so basic and boring. tell me why ya romance books are always SO MUCH better than random adult romance books.. and im literally 18. like bro maybe the actual reason was that i just read nothing like the movies before this but the dude in this book was nothinnggggg compared to the guys in ya rom coms like wes bennett and johnny kavanagh... all im saying!!
anyways do not read this if youre expecting it to be about christmas because it isnt.
i really wanted a cute christmas read, but this book takes place over the course of a year, beginning and ending at christmas. it wasnt necessarily bad, but it was bland. i didnt really care about any of the characters or anything that was going on, and i just had to force myself to finish it to get it over with. maybe i would have liked it more if i was expecting it not to be a christmas read? i dont know.
i also feel like the romance was just so basic and boring. tell me why ya romance books are always SO MUCH better than random adult romance books.. and im literally 18. like bro maybe the actual reason was that i just read nothing like the movies before this but the dude in this book was nothinnggggg compared to the guys in ya rom coms like wes bennett and johnny kavanagh... all im saying!!
anyways do not read this if youre expecting it to be about christmas because it isnt.
January 7, 2025
I have come to really look forward to Emily Stone's holiday novels, and while this was not my favorite, it was still worth reading.
December 25, 2025
WARRR ISSS OVERRRRR. i have finally finished last December’s book club book 🫶
July 21, 2024
Lexie is surprised to get a call from her mom about her dad. She has had little contact with him since the divorce many years ago. She is surprised to lean that she will be working with her fathers business partner. This was an enjoyable read.
November 25, 2024
So I'm not quite sure, but I think the main character's dad might have left her family when she was a child? /s
Seriously, I got very annoyed at the daddy issues constantly being mentioned in this book. The girl needs therapy.
Seriously, I got very annoyed at the daddy issues constantly being mentioned in this book. The girl needs therapy.
Read
November 1, 2024I adored Always in December & Love Holly. I finished, but trudged through the last third of it.
December 26, 2024
A Winter Wish has Emily Stone's trademark style of an emotional romance. With themes of grief and broken families, A Winter Wish is a romance and so much more.
November 25, 2024
3.5 - 4
Emily Stone always knows how to tug at the heartstrings.
The book starts with Lexie going to her father's funeral and avoiding her half sister, Rachel. This piece of the story I really loved - families are so incredibly complicated and Lexie's is no different. This is a father she barely knew and surprise, he left her half his travel agent business. WITH, some interesting restrictions.
Turns out he left the other half to Theo, who had been working there this entire time and is not that thrilled the absent daughter is suddenly in the picture. Can they turn a profit? Can they even be in the same room?
The travel aspect to this story was really interesting as well. The business is finding unique holiday experiences for travel so Lexie and Theo get to go on some pretty incredible trips as well.
Emily Stone always knows how to tug at the heartstrings.
The book starts with Lexie going to her father's funeral and avoiding her half sister, Rachel. This piece of the story I really loved - families are so incredibly complicated and Lexie's is no different. This is a father she barely knew and surprise, he left her half his travel agent business. WITH, some interesting restrictions.
Turns out he left the other half to Theo, who had been working there this entire time and is not that thrilled the absent daughter is suddenly in the picture. Can they turn a profit? Can they even be in the same room?
The travel aspect to this story was really interesting as well. The business is finding unique holiday experiences for travel so Lexie and Theo get to go on some pretty incredible trips as well.
September 23, 2025
This had much of what I’ve come to expect from Emily Stone, but it lacked a certain spark, I guess? I always love her signature exploration of grief and family conflicts (she does this so well), but beyond that, something felt missing for me.
Lexie and Theo had a really interesting, complex start. With the story centered around the passing of Lexie’s father, I really empathized with both of their perspectives. For Lexie, he was the man who abandoned her for another family, while for Theo, he was a beloved mentor and boss. Now, due to a stipulation in his will, Lexie and Theo must work together to run his travel company for a year before deciding its future.
The romance didn’t really give me butterflies, and the business side wasn’t super interesting either, but I loved following Lexie’s relationship with her half-sister. Seeing them work through their differences and slowly reconnect was so touching. And the ending was truly heartwarming!
⭐⭐⭐💫 (3.5 stars)
(heat level: one open-door scene, mild details)
Lexie and Theo had a really interesting, complex start. With the story centered around the passing of Lexie’s father, I really empathized with both of their perspectives. For Lexie, he was the man who abandoned her for another family, while for Theo, he was a beloved mentor and boss. Now, due to a stipulation in his will, Lexie and Theo must work together to run his travel company for a year before deciding its future.
The romance didn’t really give me butterflies, and the business side wasn’t super interesting either, but I loved following Lexie’s relationship with her half-sister. Seeing them work through their differences and slowly reconnect was so touching. And the ending was truly heartwarming!
⭐⭐⭐💫 (3.5 stars)
(heat level: one open-door scene, mild details)
August 17, 2024
I just loved this story by Emily Stone! It has the strangers/enemies to lovers 🔥 trope (and extremely well done at that!) that I love, a really nice handling of split family unresolved issues getting resolved, and a woman (Lex) who is able to find purpose, peace, and closure in her life. 💖
Special thanks to NetGalley and Dell for sharing this digital ARC with me in exchange for my honest review.
Special thanks to NetGalley and Dell for sharing this digital ARC with me in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2024
Thank you prh audio and netgalley for the audiobook and arc.
I'm tired of Lexie.
I'm tired of reading about runners.
People who don't wanna listen to others when things don't go the way they expect.
I'm tired of Lexie.
I'm tired of reading about runners.
People who don't wanna listen to others when things don't go the way they expect.
September 6, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
such a cute grumpy/sunshine romance. this book was so easy to read and fall in love with the characters. when lexies estranged dad suddenly passes away he leaves her half of his traveling business. with one condition- it has to be run with theo his protege for one year and then they can either keep it together or sell the company. this book takes you through lexies struggles to forgive her dad meanwhile learning the ropes of the business and working with her mortal enemy theo and getting to know him and love him.
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC!
such a cute grumpy/sunshine romance. this book was so easy to read and fall in love with the characters. when lexies estranged dad suddenly passes away he leaves her half of his traveling business. with one condition- it has to be run with theo his protege for one year and then they can either keep it together or sell the company. this book takes you through lexies struggles to forgive her dad meanwhile learning the ropes of the business and working with her mortal enemy theo and getting to know him and love him.
thank you to the publishers and netgalley for this ARC!
December 1, 2024
Review coming soon.
November 19, 2024
Emily Stone is known for her heavier/emotional holiday stories, and that’s exactly why I gravitate towards them. Her latest, A WINTER WISH is no different. Lexie hasn’t spoken to her father in ten years, so when he dies, she’s extremely surprised to learn that he left her half of his travel business. The other half was left to a hunky young executive named Theo. Lexie makes a serious attempt to be involved in the business but continuously butts heads with Theo. While grieving and dealing with past abandonment issues, Theo opens her eyes to a side of her father unknown to her. This one had a lot of business/workplace drama and politics that I just wasn’t into, and I couldn’t connect with the characters or the storyline. The magic that I’ve come to know and love from Stone’s novels seemed to be missing. Sadly, this was my least favorite from the author.
June 27, 2024
A Winter Wish was a good enemies to lovers Christmas time novel. This book did resonate with me more than I thought it would because of the fact that Lexi's father had unexpectedly died of cancer. She hadn't spoken to her father in years as he left her mom and her for another woman and was not as present of a father as he should have been. My own father died of cancer and also passed away without me having seen him in a couple years. My relationship was better with my father but he also left my family for another woman. With all of this going on I could relate to some of the emotions Lexi felt in this novel. There were some parts when I was a little frustrated with Lexi and her inability to see the other side of things especially when it came to her half sister. I was rooting for her and hoping things would turn out well.
This is the third book I have read by Emily Stone and I always enjoy them. In this novel there was a lot of travel and I loved all of the different settings. The business mentioned in this book is a great idea and I wish it was real so I could travel with them. Overall, I enjoyed the different characters and the romance.
Thank you to Dell Books/Random House Publishing, and NetGalley for this ARC.
This is the third book I have read by Emily Stone and I always enjoy them. In this novel there was a lot of travel and I loved all of the different settings. The business mentioned in this book is a great idea and I wish it was real so I could travel with them. Overall, I enjoyed the different characters and the romance.
Thank you to Dell Books/Random House Publishing, and NetGalley for this ARC.
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