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There's Always Next Year
From New York Times-bestselling author George M. Johnson and USA Today-bestselling author Leah Johnson comes a revolutionary new holiday romcom for fans of Lynn Painter, Alice Oseman, and Nicola Yoon.
Andy was supposed to shed her too-serious student journalist persona and reinvent herself on New Year's Eve. Instead, she puked on her crush, dropped her phone in a fish tank, and managed to get her car stolen. Now, she only has the first day of the year to stop the gentrification that’s threatening her family’s business right her wrongs from the night before, and figure out why she feels so drawn to the electric new-girl-next-door. . How can Andy find her voice when everything’s being turned upside down?
Dominique is an influencer on the verge of securing a major brand deal that will ensure his future and family legacy. But when he runs into his former best friend, unresolved feelings emerge -- and in a small town, there's nowhere to hide. Not from his cousin, Andy, who has always seen him for his true self, not from his busybody manager, Kim, whose favorite color is money green, and certainly not from himself. When all the world’s a stage, can Dominique rise to superstardom without leaving the ones he loves behind?
There’s Always Next Year is a dual POV, double love story about what it means to nearly blow your life up, and race to put it back together before your time runs out. And if they fail? Well, there’s always next year.
Andy was supposed to shed her too-serious student journalist persona and reinvent herself on New Year's Eve. Instead, she puked on her crush, dropped her phone in a fish tank, and managed to get her car stolen. Now, she only has the first day of the year to stop the gentrification that’s threatening her family’s business right her wrongs from the night before, and figure out why she feels so drawn to the electric new-girl-next-door. . How can Andy find her voice when everything’s being turned upside down?
Dominique is an influencer on the verge of securing a major brand deal that will ensure his future and family legacy. But when he runs into his former best friend, unresolved feelings emerge -- and in a small town, there's nowhere to hide. Not from his cousin, Andy, who has always seen him for his true self, not from his busybody manager, Kim, whose favorite color is money green, and certainly not from himself. When all the world’s a stage, can Dominique rise to superstardom without leaving the ones he loves behind?
There’s Always Next Year is a dual POV, double love story about what it means to nearly blow your life up, and race to put it back together before your time runs out. And if they fail? Well, there’s always next year.
Audible Audio
First published December 2, 2025
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About the author
Leah Johnson
9 books1,560 followersLeah Johnson (she/her) is an eternal midwesterner and author of award-winning books for children and young adults. Her bestselling debut YA novel, You Should See Me in a Crown, was a Stonewall Honor Book, the inaugural Reese's Book Club YA pick, and in 2021, named by TIME as one of the 100 Best Young Adult Books of All Time. She is also the author of the critically acclaimed middle grade novel, Ellie Engle Saves Herself, and the editor of the USA Today bestselling anthology, Black Girl Power. When she’s not writing, you can find her at Loudmouth Books, her Indianapolis-based independent bookstore that specializes in highlighting the work of marginalized authors and uplifting banned or challenged books.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 12, 2025
3 stars - an interesting YA read about some older teens and the gentrification of the home town. I appreciated the diversity (BIPOC & LGBT+) on display here, but perhaps it was just a bit overdone?? Also there were a few things that felt silly - like the "bleep blorp" social media app - that just took me out of this. Just okay for me
August 19, 2025
DNF at 40%
thank you to leah johnson, george m johnson, their publishing team, and netgalley for the ARC.
unfortunately, this just didn’t work for me, and i found myself not really caring about what was happening. hence the DNF. nothing against the authors; i thought the premise behind the book was interesting. i just couldn’t relate to any of the characters, and honestly, i didn’t like any of the slang that was being used. i also didn’t really like how modern/internety/gen z the authors were trying to make the characters. i wish i could’ve enjoyed this, but sadly it’s a no from me.
thank you to leah johnson, george m johnson, their publishing team, and netgalley for the ARC.
unfortunately, this just didn’t work for me, and i found myself not really caring about what was happening. hence the DNF. nothing against the authors; i thought the premise behind the book was interesting. i just couldn’t relate to any of the characters, and honestly, i didn’t like any of the slang that was being used. i also didn’t really like how modern/internety/gen z the authors were trying to make the characters. i wish i could’ve enjoyed this, but sadly it’s a no from me.
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December 7, 2025This book feels like a teen holiday romcom movie in book form—if those movies ever starred queer Black main characters. There are two cousin main characters, and both of them gets a queer romance plot line, so this is two love stories in one!
We alternate between both points of view, with Dominique trying to repair the relationships he damaged by leaving so suddenly, both with his grandmother and with with ex-best friend/crush. He’s also slowly realizing how much he has missed: the town has become gentrified, and the family hardware shop is in danger of closing.
Andy’s story is basically a scavenger hunt as she tries to chase down her car and find her cousin. She’s accompanied by the new girl in school, who she’s determined to hate, given that her family is part of the gentrification of the town. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Andy to remember that.
Part of the reason this felt like a movie to me is that it takes place almost entirely over a single day.
Of course, the climax of the story tells place at the town’s New Year’s celebration, where the villains are confronted and confessions of love takes place.
It’s a fun, quick read that has that holiday nostalgic teen movie appeal. It can be a bit cheesy, and there is slang that won’t age well, but it’s entertaining, and it’s one I would love to see adapted.
We alternate between both points of view, with Dominique trying to repair the relationships he damaged by leaving so suddenly, both with his grandmother and with with ex-best friend/crush. He’s also slowly realizing how much he has missed: the town has become gentrified, and the family hardware shop is in danger of closing.
Andy’s story is basically a scavenger hunt as she tries to chase down her car and find her cousin. She’s accompanied by the new girl in school, who she’s determined to hate, given that her family is part of the gentrification of the town. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Andy to remember that.
Part of the reason this felt like a movie to me is that it takes place almost entirely over a single day.
Of course, the climax of the story tells place at the town’s New Year’s celebration, where the villains are confronted and confessions of love takes place.
It’s a fun, quick read that has that holiday nostalgic teen movie appeal. It can be a bit cheesy, and there is slang that won’t age well, but it’s entertaining, and it’s one I would love to see adapted.
October 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Dominique was able to escape small town Indiana by becoming an influencer, somewhat by accident. But just as fast as fame came on, he’s slowly starting to lose it. Desperate for brand deals, Dominique has to take a gig back in his home town on New Year’s Day. He’s excited to see his Gma, but can’t really escape everyone else, including his cousin, Andy, and his best friend turned love interest that he left on not-so-great terms. Meanwhile, Andy is dealing with her own challenges, including her family’s business being destroyed by gentrification. With only one day, will Dominique and Andy be able to pull it all together?
While technically a romance novel, I have to say that there were many other story lines that made this a fun #YA read. The book intersects small town queer identity with race and gentrification, with a touch of romance on the side. I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook which really did a phenomenal job from a production standpoint! For example, there’s a bit of an interlude of a podcast episode and another as a hidden mic, both of which were produced to sound super authentic. Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites did a great job capturing the teen spirit of Dominique and Andy, capturing the joy and angst of young adulthood. It’s a fairly quick read, and fans of #YA will love the intersecting stories!
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
👩👧👦 love books about family, identity, and small town transformation
⚔️ stan stories of teens standing up to abuses of power
🥤 say pop not soda
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
Dominique was able to escape small town Indiana by becoming an influencer, somewhat by accident. But just as fast as fame came on, he’s slowly starting to lose it. Desperate for brand deals, Dominique has to take a gig back in his home town on New Year’s Day. He’s excited to see his Gma, but can’t really escape everyone else, including his cousin, Andy, and his best friend turned love interest that he left on not-so-great terms. Meanwhile, Andy is dealing with her own challenges, including her family’s business being destroyed by gentrification. With only one day, will Dominique and Andy be able to pull it all together?
While technically a romance novel, I have to say that there were many other story lines that made this a fun #YA read. The book intersects small town queer identity with race and gentrification, with a touch of romance on the side. I had the pleasure of listening to the audiobook which really did a phenomenal job from a production standpoint! For example, there’s a bit of an interlude of a podcast episode and another as a hidden mic, both of which were produced to sound super authentic. Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites did a great job capturing the teen spirit of Dominique and Andy, capturing the joy and angst of young adulthood. It’s a fairly quick read, and fans of #YA will love the intersecting stories!
Reviewed as part of #ARC from #NetGalley. Many thanks to Macmillan Audio for the #gifted copy in exchange for an honest review.
Read this book if you:
👩👧👦 love books about family, identity, and small town transformation
⚔️ stan stories of teens standing up to abuses of power
🥤 say pop not soda
Follow me on Instagram for more book reviews!
October 21, 2025
2.5 stars
I really enjoy both of these authors, which is why I am extremely surprised that this book did not work for me.
While both central characters are interesting enough, the connections are too simplistic and shallow. Two- or three-perspective texts are common in YA, but what makes them work so well is their complementary nature. Here, I felt like I was reading two simultaneous but separate accounts that never merged in a satisfying way.
The representation is good and I still have very positive feelings about both authors, but this one isn't as memorable or meaningful as I'd hoped.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Young Listeners for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
I really enjoy both of these authors, which is why I am extremely surprised that this book did not work for me.
While both central characters are interesting enough, the connections are too simplistic and shallow. Two- or three-perspective texts are common in YA, but what makes them work so well is their complementary nature. Here, I felt like I was reading two simultaneous but separate accounts that never merged in a satisfying way.
The representation is good and I still have very positive feelings about both authors, but this one isn't as memorable or meaningful as I'd hoped.
*Special thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Young Listeners for this alc, which I received in exchange for an honest review. The opinions expressed here are my own.
December 3, 2025
I listened to this audiobook thanks to the publisher and Net Galley and am very thankful for having had the chance to listen to it. The narrators are incredible and added so much emotion, reflection, and individual cadence to each character that really enriched this story. It's a very timely and unabashed queer, Black, young adult (YA) that encompasses so much of what it's like to be a young person in America today with strong family and cultural ties, social conscience, and growing into yourself as you're still figuring out who the heck that is anyway. I'm a trans Midwesterner and found the characters relatable, hilarious, and oftentimes tender in ways that pulled at my heartstrings. Even if you think you're too old to read this book, I promise you're not. It's absolutely worth your time - and when you're done, give it to a young person in your life to read!
May 31, 2024
This was not an easy read. Perhaps because my reading life has included Richard Wright's "Native Son" and several by James Baldwin I was able to grasp the first person narrative style but, as I say, the process is not easy. Nevertheless, this is an outstanding piece of literature by a challenging author.
November 25, 2025
*Thanks to NetGalley and MacMillan audio for early copy for review*
I'm do glad I was able to listen to this book. The multiple narrators did a great job at telling this story. With having two different authors it felt like we had a different narrator for each one.
The story itself was two queer stories told over a day and each story felt incomplete due to how short this was. I would have lived this, however, when I was 12 or 13 so I would recommend to that age range. This deals with community and being there for family so I think its a great start to a story. This however is not something that will stay will me long term and I will probably forget about it soon.
I'm do glad I was able to listen to this book. The multiple narrators did a great job at telling this story. With having two different authors it felt like we had a different narrator for each one.
The story itself was two queer stories told over a day and each story felt incomplete due to how short this was. I would have lived this, however, when I was 12 or 13 so I would recommend to that age range. This deals with community and being there for family so I think its a great start to a story. This however is not something that will stay will me long term and I will probably forget about it soon.
December 11, 2025
Solidly okay.
I don’t know what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this. I’ve read stories with multiple story lines before and usually enjoy it, but these just didn’t weave together well enough. Like it was too forced? Oh here are two potential romances, plus a family losing their store, a lost car, and a failing influencer. Let’s jam them all together! That’s basically how it felt.
I appreciate the diverse representation. And I really liked the end about fighting the gentrification of their neighborhood. But I feel like it could have been executed better.
Thank you to both authors and Macmillan Audio for a copy of the audiobook.
I don’t know what I was expecting, but it wasn’t this. I’ve read stories with multiple story lines before and usually enjoy it, but these just didn’t weave together well enough. Like it was too forced? Oh here are two potential romances, plus a family losing their store, a lost car, and a failing influencer. Let’s jam them all together! That’s basically how it felt.
I appreciate the diverse representation. And I really liked the end about fighting the gentrification of their neighborhood. But I feel like it could have been executed better.
Thank you to both authors and Macmillan Audio for a copy of the audiobook.
November 30, 2025
I enjoyed how There’s Always Next Year took tropes that are common in holiday romances, but gave them a bit of a twist for a YA book. Like someone coming home to their small town from the big city, reconnecting with people, having to save local landmarks, and having whirlwind holiday adventures. This is a dual POV story following cousins Dom and Andy as they both have their own individual queer romances on top of reconnecting with one another and learning what’s really important in life.
There’s a really lovely emphasis on community in this book. I liked seeing a major plot point being them fighting back against gentrification and working to keep their town unique. I also enjoyed how this book was taking place on New Year’s Day. Holiday romances tend to be about the Christmas season, or leading up to New Year’s Eve, so this felt like a fun departure.
However, this didn’t fully work for me. It felt very light on Dom and Andy reconnecting as cousins and the resolution of the plot at the end happened too easily. There were also some aspects of the writing that were taking me out of the story. Like the fictional social media being called BleepBlorp or the characters constantly making pop culture references that were way before their time. And because this takes place over the course of one day, the blossoming romances felt rushed.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
There’s a really lovely emphasis on community in this book. I liked seeing a major plot point being them fighting back against gentrification and working to keep their town unique. I also enjoyed how this book was taking place on New Year’s Day. Holiday romances tend to be about the Christmas season, or leading up to New Year’s Eve, so this felt like a fun departure.
However, this didn’t fully work for me. It felt very light on Dom and Andy reconnecting as cousins and the resolution of the plot at the end happened too easily. There were also some aspects of the writing that were taking me out of the story. Like the fictional social media being called BleepBlorp or the characters constantly making pop culture references that were way before their time. And because this takes place over the course of one day, the blossoming romances felt rushed.
Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
December 16, 2025
Thank you @macmillan.audio for the gifted audiobook!
While I read (and love) a lot of YA, this one ultimately felt a little too young for my taste, and I struggled to connect with both the characters and the story overall. The premise had a lot of potential, but I never fully felt invested in Andy or Dominique’s journeys. Even through audio, the emotional beats just didn’t land for me, and I found myself feeling fairly disconnected from what was happening on the page.
That said, I really appreciated the gentrification storyline. It was thoughtful, relevant, and something I don’t see explored often enough in YA, and I loved that the book made space for those conversations.
While I read (and love) a lot of YA, this one ultimately felt a little too young for my taste, and I struggled to connect with both the characters and the story overall. The premise had a lot of potential, but I never fully felt invested in Andy or Dominique’s journeys. Even through audio, the emotional beats just didn’t land for me, and I found myself feeling fairly disconnected from what was happening on the page.
That said, I really appreciated the gentrification storyline. It was thoughtful, relevant, and something I don’t see explored often enough in YA, and I loved that the book made space for those conversations.
September 12, 2025
This book is feel good, lighthearted but we have some issues…
First, it’s labeled as young adult but if the author took out one sentence the whole thing could easily be marketed as teen. The writing style is very simple and the transition between events felt juvenile. I felt like I was reading someone’s first novel. While I did get this as an ARC, it still felt like a draft and needs some work before its published.
There’s some funny moments in here and it is living up to being a romcom, but I feel like it heavily relies on people randomly popping into the scene (especially the drag queen) for the comedic effect. Its very forced irony and heavily relies on “and then! and then! and then!”
Lastly, I think the research done about being an influencer was very superficial. Yes, youre trying to show that this 19 year old barely understands how to navigate the space, but he has no brand direction to where it felt more like the author’s fault and less like the character’s fault. It felt like the author was just writing about what they thought an influencer does and it was lazy writing.
It was refreshing reading a dual pov where they both have different love interests. I also loved that it all took place in one day. There’s good bones for this book, but the execution fell through.
First, it’s labeled as young adult but if the author took out one sentence the whole thing could easily be marketed as teen. The writing style is very simple and the transition between events felt juvenile. I felt like I was reading someone’s first novel. While I did get this as an ARC, it still felt like a draft and needs some work before its published.
There’s some funny moments in here and it is living up to being a romcom, but I feel like it heavily relies on people randomly popping into the scene (especially the drag queen) for the comedic effect. Its very forced irony and heavily relies on “and then! and then! and then!”
Lastly, I think the research done about being an influencer was very superficial. Yes, youre trying to show that this 19 year old barely understands how to navigate the space, but he has no brand direction to where it felt more like the author’s fault and less like the character’s fault. It felt like the author was just writing about what they thought an influencer does and it was lazy writing.
It was refreshing reading a dual pov where they both have different love interests. I also loved that it all took place in one day. There’s good bones for this book, but the execution fell through.
November 5, 2025
This was a delightful holiday story filled with warmth and laughs, all while creating space for serious topics. I really enjoyed this story, the fast paced nature and tracking the hours of the day was a fun way to see the world through our main characters eyes.
We follow Dominique as he returns home for the first time in two years and Andy, his younger cousin who is struggling with advocating for her town and staying an impartial reporter. I loved how this novel created space for humor while tackling tough subjects like gentrification, returning home, making difficult decisions and fighting for what you believe in.
I loved that it was fast paced, allowed our characters time to reflect and grow and also find their own paths forward. It was like a fun hallmark movie and a great holiday read. I highly recommend this read for some holiday delight and characters you can cheer on. Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
We follow Dominique as he returns home for the first time in two years and Andy, his younger cousin who is struggling with advocating for her town and staying an impartial reporter. I loved how this novel created space for humor while tackling tough subjects like gentrification, returning home, making difficult decisions and fighting for what you believe in.
I loved that it was fast paced, allowed our characters time to reflect and grow and also find their own paths forward. It was like a fun hallmark movie and a great holiday read. I highly recommend this read for some holiday delight and characters you can cheer on. Thank you to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
November 23, 2025
I won an ARC of this book in a Goodreads giveaway!
I'm trying to keep in mind that I definitely wasn't the target audience for this book, so when the writing seemed too juvenile or the character's reactions to things seemed too simplistic, I tried to remember that it might seem more meaningful to readers who are closer to the characters' ages.
That being said, I think this book did a good job portraying the struggles of a community that's facing gentrification and people in power who are against the community's best interests in a way that's easy for teens to understand. But contrasting those more serious themes with the fast pace of the romance plotlines really didn't work for me. Maybe the romance would've been more convincing if we'd seen the relationships develop over time, but it felt really silly when it all occurred in one day.
Also, this was definitely an example of a multiple-POV book where you can't stand one character's POV. I ended up having to skim Dominique's chapters because I found his narration very annoying.
I'm trying to keep in mind that I definitely wasn't the target audience for this book, so when the writing seemed too juvenile or the character's reactions to things seemed too simplistic, I tried to remember that it might seem more meaningful to readers who are closer to the characters' ages.
That being said, I think this book did a good job portraying the struggles of a community that's facing gentrification and people in power who are against the community's best interests in a way that's easy for teens to understand. But contrasting those more serious themes with the fast pace of the romance plotlines really didn't work for me. Maybe the romance would've been more convincing if we'd seen the relationships develop over time, but it felt really silly when it all occurred in one day.
Also, this was definitely an example of a multiple-POV book where you can't stand one character's POV. I ended up having to skim Dominique's chapters because I found his narration very annoying.
December 1, 2025
Thank you to Macmillan Audio for my gifted ALC of this cute YA story.
I really wanted to love this one… and I sadly just didn’t. It was super cute, and I loved the focus on community care and connection woven through every part of the story. But I just, like, didn’t care? I never really connected with the characters, I wasn’t invested in their story, and while it was fine, I had zero burning urge to get back to it, ya know?
Overall it skewed a bit young for me—but it is YA, so that’s to be expected. The narration was fun, and honestly I’m glad I did the audio because I don’t think I would’ve finished it otherwise lol.
I really wanted to love this one… and I sadly just didn’t. It was super cute, and I loved the focus on community care and connection woven through every part of the story. But I just, like, didn’t care? I never really connected with the characters, I wasn’t invested in their story, and while it was fine, I had zero burning urge to get back to it, ya know?
Overall it skewed a bit young for me—but it is YA, so that’s to be expected. The narration was fun, and honestly I’m glad I did the audio because I don’t think I would’ve finished it otherwise lol.
December 12, 2025
There's always next year is an YA LGBTQ Holiday Romance that follows two cousins on New Year's Day: An influencer and model on the verge of securing a major brand deal that will ensure his future and family legacy navigating his past actions (ghosting everyone when he moved to New York – including his best friend and his cousin) with his career and his cousin who's attempt to shed her too-serious student journalist persona backfired and now has the first day of the year to stop the gentrification threatening her family’s business.
The book focused on gentrification, how important to take care of our communities, support Black-owned businesses, classism, racism and influencer culture. Dual POV, Black and Queer Representation, and two love stories unfolding. It's a heartfelt holiday rom-com that balances romance, family, and identity with humor and charm.
The book focused on gentrification, how important to take care of our communities, support Black-owned businesses, classism, racism and influencer culture. Dual POV, Black and Queer Representation, and two love stories unfolding. It's a heartfelt holiday rom-com that balances romance, family, and identity with humor and charm.
November 23, 2025
3.5 rounded up
This was a heartfelt YA holiday story that follows two queer teens - one who left to be an influencer in NYC and the other an aspiring journalist. Told from alternating POVs, we follow them around their home town in the days leading up to New Years where they chase love and try to prevent a big developer from taking over the town. Good on audio and perfect for fans of books like the holiday anthology, Whiteout. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
This was a heartfelt YA holiday story that follows two queer teens - one who left to be an influencer in NYC and the other an aspiring journalist. Told from alternating POVs, we follow them around their home town in the days leading up to New Years where they chase love and try to prevent a big developer from taking over the town. Good on audio and perfect for fans of books like the holiday anthology, Whiteout. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital and audio copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 24, 2025
{3.5 stars}
Thanks to Macmillan Audio for gifted access to this audiobook. All opinions below are my own.
This is the story of two young, queer Black cousins trying to save their family business, their town from corruption, find love, get famous and celebrate the holidays.
Yeah, too much. I enjoyed listening but it felt like it was trying to be too many things at once so everything was just mediocre. It felt a little predictable and when I know you were supposed to cheer for them I was feeling a little meh about it.
Thanks to Macmillan Audio for gifted access to this audiobook. All opinions below are my own.
This is the story of two young, queer Black cousins trying to save their family business, their town from corruption, find love, get famous and celebrate the holidays.
Yeah, too much. I enjoyed listening but it felt like it was trying to be too many things at once so everything was just mediocre. It felt a little predictable and when I know you were supposed to cheer for them I was feeling a little meh about it.
Read
November 19, 2025This was a delightful read that made me hopeful for the future. The plot was moved along quickly by both the noting of the time on New Years Day and the alternating POV chapters. I do wish the characters were a little more fleshed out, but I enjoyed getting to know them. This will be a perfect post-holidays read as we gear up for the new year.
November 12, 2025
The side characters truly carried the story. Never have I seen a more diverse and fun and entertaining cast of characters in a book! New favorite holiday read !!!
December 17, 2025
SO sweet and enjoyable.
September 3, 2025
A joyful, queer holiday rom-com with heart, humor, and a touch of spice. There’s Always Next Year follows cousins Andy and Dominique as they navigate disastrous nights, messy truths, and unexpected love during New Year’s.
Andy’s chaotic, funny energy perfectly balances Dominique’s thoughtful, emotional arc. Together, their alternating stories create a tale that is witty, heartfelt, and impossible not to root for.
Spice Level, 🌶️ (soft and playful light steam, lots of tension and sweet intimacy).
This book sparkles with warmth, representation, and second-chance magic perfect for anyone who loves holiday romances with humor and heart
Huge thank to Netgally for the opportunity to read this and give my honest review 🫶🏻
Andy’s chaotic, funny energy perfectly balances Dominique’s thoughtful, emotional arc. Together, their alternating stories create a tale that is witty, heartfelt, and impossible not to root for.
Spice Level, 🌶️ (soft and playful light steam, lots of tension and sweet intimacy).
This book sparkles with warmth, representation, and second-chance magic perfect for anyone who loves holiday romances with humor and heart
Huge thank to Netgally for the opportunity to read this and give my honest review 🫶🏻
September 4, 2025
I am such a sucker for those cheesy Lifetime/Hallmark romance movies and this totally gives off the vibe of those. I truly love the dual-POVs and the small town feel. My biggest, but not too big that the book doesn't deserve its flowers, is that I did struggle with connecting with the characters a bit, I wish I felt a little more for them but this didn't take away from the experience of this really lovely book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2025
There’s Always Next Year had all the ingredients for an emotional and engaging read, but unfortunately, it didn’t quite land for me. While I appreciated the themes and the unique dual-author perspective, I found myself struggling to connect with the characters on a deeper level. The story had moments of potential, but the emotional impact I was hoping for just didn’t hit. It’s a heartfelt book that may resonate more strongly with other readers, but for me, it ended up being just an okay experience.
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October 27, 2025
I was fully prepared to love this based on the description alone, but what I read felt like an entirely different book.
When I read the blurb and then got approved for this one, I was so eager to dive in that I actually paused the book I was in the middle of so I could start immediately. Unfortunately, that initial excitement fizzled fast because this was nothing like what the description promised.
Right out of the gate, it was clear the author(s) either don’t understand influencer culture or didn’t bother to truly research it. They didn’t even lean into fun stereotypes—everything felt either inaccurate or extremely surface-level.
The story itself was disjointed. You could feel that it was written by two different people, and not in a “fun dual POV” way. The voices didn’t blend, the perspectives lacked cohesiveness, and the overall flow suffered. I didn’t even realize there were two authors credited until I checked afterward, but the disconnect in writing made it obvious.
And yes, I know it’s YA—but the writing felt juvenile in a way that didn’t read intentional. It didn’t feel like it was crafted for teens. Instead, the prose was overly simplistic, almost middle-grade adjacent. What made it more surprising is that both authors are already published and experienced, so this didn’t feel like a debut growing-pains issue.
Usually I love when YA leans into modern language and current lingo because it helps me connect with the characters, but that didn’t happen here. I felt disconnected and, honestly, bored.
The bright spot? The narrators. Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites gave it their all and delivered strong performances, but even they couldn’t make magic from nothing.
In the end, this had potential, but the lack of cohesion and depth kept it from ever finding its footing.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Macmillan Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
When I read the blurb and then got approved for this one, I was so eager to dive in that I actually paused the book I was in the middle of so I could start immediately. Unfortunately, that initial excitement fizzled fast because this was nothing like what the description promised.
Right out of the gate, it was clear the author(s) either don’t understand influencer culture or didn’t bother to truly research it. They didn’t even lean into fun stereotypes—everything felt either inaccurate or extremely surface-level.
The story itself was disjointed. You could feel that it was written by two different people, and not in a “fun dual POV” way. The voices didn’t blend, the perspectives lacked cohesiveness, and the overall flow suffered. I didn’t even realize there were two authors credited until I checked afterward, but the disconnect in writing made it obvious.
And yes, I know it’s YA—but the writing felt juvenile in a way that didn’t read intentional. It didn’t feel like it was crafted for teens. Instead, the prose was overly simplistic, almost middle-grade adjacent. What made it more surprising is that both authors are already published and experienced, so this didn’t feel like a debut growing-pains issue.
Usually I love when YA leans into modern language and current lingo because it helps me connect with the characters, but that didn’t happen here. I felt disconnected and, honestly, bored.
The bright spot? The narrators. Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites gave it their all and delivered strong performances, but even they couldn’t make magic from nothing.
In the end, this had potential, but the lack of cohesion and depth kept it from ever finding its footing.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary ALC from Macmillan Audio via NetGalley, which gave me the opportunity to share my voluntary thoughts.
How I Rate
Because I mostly read ARCs, I focus on how I think fellow readers with similar tastes will respond. I sometimes round up or down based on pacing, prose, or overall impact, and I try to keep my personal preferences from weighing too heavily.
⭐️ 1 Star – Finished, but not for me as it has way too many issues; I never DNF ARCs but would have had it not been one.
⭐️⭐️ 2 Stars – Struggled due to writing, content, or editing issues.
⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3 Stars – Decent read with untapped potential; recommend with some reservations.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4 Stars – Really enjoyed it and would recommend for several reasons.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars – Exceptional; lingers in my mind well after reading. A story I’d gladly revisit.
December 9, 2025
An advance copy of this book was provided to me for free by the publisher.
Sweet, hilarious, and heartfelt, There’s Always Next Year by Leah Johnson and George M. Johnson kept me hooked from beginning to end. Set entirely on New Year’s Day and told through dual POVs, cousins Andy and Dom each grapple with choices that could reshape their futures and encounter unexpected sparks of love along the way.
Andy rings in the new year hungover, her car missing, and reeling from an embarrassing attempt to impress her longtime crush. Enlisting the help of Iris, she embarks on a chaotic search for her car so she can meet up with Dom and expose a local conspiracy. Meanwhile, Dom returns home determined to maintain the façade of the wealthy influencer he’s built in New York, even as he questions what that persona has cost him, especially when it comes to his former friend (and crush), Tyler.
I loved how Andy and Dom’s stories strike the perfect balance between laugh-out-loud hijinks and meaningful reflections on being yourself, being able to come home, and fighting for what you believe in. Both authors shine by pulling you fully into each cousin’s emotional world. Even though the entire book unfolds over a single day, you still feel genuine growth as Andy and Dom begin to see their futures and themselves more clearly.
The queer representation throughout the story was one of my favorite elements, from Andy and Dom being fully embraced by their family, to Alotta’s effervescent presence, to the family hardware store acting as a refuge for those who need a safe place. These small but powerful moments add depth, warmth, and authenticity.
🎧Audiobook Commentary:
Narrated by Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites, the audiobook enhances every beat of the story. Both narrators bring Andy and Dom to life with expressive, engaging performances that perfectly capture the humor, chaos, and heart of their New Year’s journey. Their delivery balances comedic timing with emotional nuance that fully immerses you in Andy and Dom’s stories. I highly recommend reading via audio to experience their performances.
✨ If you’re looking for a sweet, heartwarming read that blends family, romance, and a dash of New Year’s chaos, There’s Always Next Year should be on your reading list.
Sweet, hilarious, and heartfelt, There’s Always Next Year by Leah Johnson and George M. Johnson kept me hooked from beginning to end. Set entirely on New Year’s Day and told through dual POVs, cousins Andy and Dom each grapple with choices that could reshape their futures and encounter unexpected sparks of love along the way.
Andy rings in the new year hungover, her car missing, and reeling from an embarrassing attempt to impress her longtime crush. Enlisting the help of Iris, she embarks on a chaotic search for her car so she can meet up with Dom and expose a local conspiracy. Meanwhile, Dom returns home determined to maintain the façade of the wealthy influencer he’s built in New York, even as he questions what that persona has cost him, especially when it comes to his former friend (and crush), Tyler.
I loved how Andy and Dom’s stories strike the perfect balance between laugh-out-loud hijinks and meaningful reflections on being yourself, being able to come home, and fighting for what you believe in. Both authors shine by pulling you fully into each cousin’s emotional world. Even though the entire book unfolds over a single day, you still feel genuine growth as Andy and Dom begin to see their futures and themselves more clearly.
The queer representation throughout the story was one of my favorite elements, from Andy and Dom being fully embraced by their family, to Alotta’s effervescent presence, to the family hardware store acting as a refuge for those who need a safe place. These small but powerful moments add depth, warmth, and authenticity.
🎧Audiobook Commentary:
Narrated by Eric Lockley and Khaya Fraites, the audiobook enhances every beat of the story. Both narrators bring Andy and Dom to life with expressive, engaging performances that perfectly capture the humor, chaos, and heart of their New Year’s journey. Their delivery balances comedic timing with emotional nuance that fully immerses you in Andy and Dom’s stories. I highly recommend reading via audio to experience their performances.
✨ If you’re looking for a sweet, heartwarming read that blends family, romance, and a dash of New Year’s chaos, There’s Always Next Year should be on your reading list.
November 29, 2025
*Thank you to Netgalley and Macmillan Audio for the ALC*
"There's Always Next Year" is a fast-paced, dual POV holiday romance about two queer cousins (Dominique and Andy) who are both figuring out their paths in life while navigating familial responsibilities, broken friendships/promises, and a small town crisis.
Dominique is a former high school track star who left his hometown in Indiana to become an influencer in New York. While the influencer lifestyle seems glamorous on the outside, Dom struggles to gain followers and the brand deals to make ends meet. When he comes home for the New Year holidays, he is hit with the reality that he needs to secure a higher paying partnership not only to survive the hustle and bustle of NY, but to also support his family and their dying business. Aside from his financial problems, Dom is dealing with the aftermath of his choice to leave Indiana and how it impacted his relationship with his cousin Andy and his best-friend/crush, Tyler. Throughout the story, we see how he seesaws between standing for his decisions to be an influencer and realizing that he could have handled his choices with more care and more thought, so that the people he loves wouldn't have to suffer as much from his absence.
Andy, on the other hand, is a focused/rigid high school senior with big plans to become a hard-hitting investigative journalist. Despite being a generally responsible person, we are introduced to Andy post-night out, hungover in her family friend's tub wearing an unfamiliar outfit with no recollection to the night before. In retracing her steps, she is paired off with the new girl in school, Iris, and they go on a romantic goose chase to find her missing car while also uncovering a breaking news story that would shake their small town.
Despite the plot being so jam packed with multiple storylines, this audiobook was a very fast read/listen. There was a lot going on, but it all tied together nicely at the very end. I would highly recommend this to teenagers/young adults who enjoy contemporary/lgbtq+ romance. It is quick, it is fun, and it is an overall enjoyable read.
"There's Always Next Year" is a fast-paced, dual POV holiday romance about two queer cousins (Dominique and Andy) who are both figuring out their paths in life while navigating familial responsibilities, broken friendships/promises, and a small town crisis.
Dominique is a former high school track star who left his hometown in Indiana to become an influencer in New York. While the influencer lifestyle seems glamorous on the outside, Dom struggles to gain followers and the brand deals to make ends meet. When he comes home for the New Year holidays, he is hit with the reality that he needs to secure a higher paying partnership not only to survive the hustle and bustle of NY, but to also support his family and their dying business. Aside from his financial problems, Dom is dealing with the aftermath of his choice to leave Indiana and how it impacted his relationship with his cousin Andy and his best-friend/crush, Tyler. Throughout the story, we see how he seesaws between standing for his decisions to be an influencer and realizing that he could have handled his choices with more care and more thought, so that the people he loves wouldn't have to suffer as much from his absence.
Andy, on the other hand, is a focused/rigid high school senior with big plans to become a hard-hitting investigative journalist. Despite being a generally responsible person, we are introduced to Andy post-night out, hungover in her family friend's tub wearing an unfamiliar outfit with no recollection to the night before. In retracing her steps, she is paired off with the new girl in school, Iris, and they go on a romantic goose chase to find her missing car while also uncovering a breaking news story that would shake their small town.
Despite the plot being so jam packed with multiple storylines, this audiobook was a very fast read/listen. There was a lot going on, but it all tied together nicely at the very end. I would highly recommend this to teenagers/young adults who enjoy contemporary/lgbtq+ romance. It is quick, it is fun, and it is an overall enjoyable read.
December 4, 2025
This book had so many good lessons and topics that should be discussed. The writing seemed a bit on the younger side but I thought maybe that was on purpose. Dom and Andy are cousins but have ventured on their own paths. Dom had become an influencer and seemed to have left his old life behind him. I could tell he was still always missing something.
I respected Dom's character so much because I watched him grow before my eyes. You could tell he had ignored so much over the years he was gone and now that he has returned home he is welcomed to a rude awakening. I think everyone was protecting him from what was happening.
His cousin Andy was pretty wild and a lot may have had to do with her staying home. Getting to experience their learning really big things and important lessons was what made this book so good to me. As an adult I would probably rate it 3 stars. However, I could see myself younger self loving this so I went in the middle.
I need to address Andy's not sister, older sister, she may have been what made this book for me. Or maybe the Grandma. Those two really made me enjoy this book and bring to light more difficult topics for young readers. I though this was done very well and with care.
Thanks you so much Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to enjoy this audiobook.
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
💰 𝙄’𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚.
😇 𝘾𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡 𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙪𝙨. 𝘼 𝙨𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙗𝙞𝙜 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨, 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨, 𝙖 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙣.
I respected Dom's character so much because I watched him grow before my eyes. You could tell he had ignored so much over the years he was gone and now that he has returned home he is welcomed to a rude awakening. I think everyone was protecting him from what was happening.
His cousin Andy was pretty wild and a lot may have had to do with her staying home. Getting to experience their learning really big things and important lessons was what made this book so good to me. As an adult I would probably rate it 3 stars. However, I could see myself younger self loving this so I went in the middle.
I need to address Andy's not sister, older sister, she may have been what made this book for me. Or maybe the Grandma. Those two really made me enjoy this book and bring to light more difficult topics for young readers. I though this was done very well and with care.
Thanks you so much Macmillan Audio for the opportunity to enjoy this audiobook.
꧁𝓠𝓾𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼꧂
💰 𝙄’𝙙 𝙧𝙖𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙞𝙡𝙡𝙪𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙛 𝙬𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙝 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙡𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙗𝙚 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙨𝙝𝙤𝙬𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙖𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙡 𝙨𝙩𝙧𝙪𝙜𝙜𝙡𝙚.
😇 𝘾𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪𝙧 𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖 𝙗𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙠 𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚𝙡 𝙗𝙖𝙗𝙮. 𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙖 𝙝𝙪𝙢𝙖𝙣 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙪𝙨. 𝘼 𝙨𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙡𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙗𝙞𝙜 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨, 𝙨𝙩𝙪𝙥𝙞𝙙 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙢𝙤𝙣𝙚𝙨, 𝙖 𝙢𝙤𝙪𝙩𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙨𝙥𝙤𝙣𝙙 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙬𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙘𝙠 𝙩𝙤 𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙣.
December 14, 2025
2.5 stars. This book deals with a lot of important themes and has some strong messages, but unfortunately the overall story just falls short. The two main characters' stories are a little unbalanced, in the sense that Andy's storyline just has more happening, even though the book very strictly switches between their POVs every other chapter. This is probably why Dominique's chapters seem very filled with exposition and backstory, that ends up feeling more and more repeated rather than expanded on, as there's just less story for the character to go through. I don't know why we needed the same reflection of what it's like to be an influencer and how he feels trapped between his new and old life over and over again. At the same time, Andy's story actually needed more. I can't help feeling like this book would have been better if it was just Andy's POV, and Dominique was a secondary character.
The writing and story in this feels more aimed at the younger range of YA, and would probably appeal more to younger teens even though the characters are in their later teens. As I said, this story has some important themes and messages that young teens could definitely benefit from. Overall it's a nice story, with nice family dynamics and cute romances. I listened to the audiobook, which had dual narrators who both did a good job. Though there were moments where it seems like parts might have been re-recorded, where the audio quality was noticeably different and it was a little jarring.
The writing and story in this feels more aimed at the younger range of YA, and would probably appeal more to younger teens even though the characters are in their later teens. As I said, this story has some important themes and messages that young teens could definitely benefit from. Overall it's a nice story, with nice family dynamics and cute romances. I listened to the audiobook, which had dual narrators who both did a good job. Though there were moments where it seems like parts might have been re-recorded, where the audio quality was noticeably different and it was a little jarring.
December 5, 2025
5/5 stars: This is Johnson & Johnson's YA BIPOC 2SLGBTQIA+ Holiday Romance stand-alone set in Indiana. Following two cousins on New Year's Day: An influencer and model on the verge of securing a major brand deal that will ensure his future and family legacy navigating his past actions (ghosting everyone when he moved to New York – including his best friend and his cousin) with his career and his cousin who's attempt to shed her too-serious student journalist persona backfired and now has the first day of the year to stop the gentrification threatening her family’s business, right her wrongs from the night before and figure out why she feels so drawn to the electric new-girl. The two will learn what it means to nearly blow your life up and race to put it back together before your time runs out. And if you fail? Well, there’s always next year.
Told in dual POV, Johnson & Johnson's smart and witty writing and character work are stellar; the main character's well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a great secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. This double love story has plenty of butterflies in the belly feelings and swoony banter. Johnson & Johnson touches on some sensitive subjects; so take care and check the CWs.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
Told in dual POV, Johnson & Johnson's smart and witty writing and character work are stellar; the main character's well-rounded and complex while remaining incredibly likable with a great secondary cast that are well crafted and uniquely voiced. This double love story has plenty of butterflies in the belly feelings and swoony banter. Johnson & Johnson touches on some sensitive subjects; so take care and check the CWs.
I received this eARC thanks to NetGalley and Macmillan Children's Publishing Group | Farrar, Straus and Giroux (BYR) in exchange for an honest review. Publishing dates are subject to change.
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