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Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses
From crying into Santa's beard at Macy's department store, to working the bar at a historic seaside inn thousands of miles away, Ellie de Vere has been through it all this Christmas season...
When Ellie trades her hectic New York life for the twinkling lights and snow-dusted charm of her childhood village of St Tilda, it's only to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cozy family inn.
But all the festive holly, crackling fires and mulled cider in the world can't prepare Ellie for who she finds waiting for her back home. Her ex best friend Liam is also in town for the holidays... and they haven't seen each other in twenty years. He's now a devastatingly handsome single father with the same Irish lilt that always made her breath catch. If only he hadn't broken her heart irreparably all those years ago...
Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night in St Tilda? And is he even the same man she used to know? As Christmas approaches and old feelings refuse to stay buried, will Ellie finally find the courage to rewrite her future?
When Ellie trades her hectic New York life for the twinkling lights and snow-dusted charm of her childhood village of St Tilda, it's only to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cozy family inn.
But all the festive holly, crackling fires and mulled cider in the world can't prepare Ellie for who she finds waiting for her back home. Her ex best friend Liam is also in town for the holidays... and they haven't seen each other in twenty years. He's now a devastatingly handsome single father with the same Irish lilt that always made her breath catch. If only he hadn't broken her heart irreparably all those years ago...
Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night in St Tilda? And is he even the same man she used to know? As Christmas approaches and old feelings refuse to stay buried, will Ellie finally find the courage to rewrite her future?
244 pages, Paperback
Published September 29, 2025
337 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Johnson
31 books946 followersDebbie Johnson is an award-winning author who lives and works in Liverpool, where she divides her time between writing, caring for a small tribe of children and animals, and not doing the housework.
She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.
Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.
She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.
source: Amazon
She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.
Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.
She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.
source: Amazon
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 144 reviews
October 26, 2025
2 Stars (Outliner)
One Liner: This was boring
Ellie de Vere trades her hectic NY life to spend time in her childhood village, St. Tilda, to help her ailing father during the Christmas rush at their inn. However, she is not prepared to meet her ex-best friend, Liam, the man who broke her heart many years ago. He is now just as handsome, with a lovely Irish lilt, and is a single father.
Can Ellie forgive Liam for what had happened? Will Christmas magic bring love and second chances into their lives?
The story comes in Ellie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I read the author’s books before and know that her works are more of contemporary fiction than romance and deal with some heavy themes. This book is no different, despite a cover and title that scream romance. In fact, the title is rather misleading, given there’s one kiss in the last quarter and maybe another at the end.
The first-person POV started well, but got so annoying that I wanted to knock sense into the FMC’s head. Practically every page has repetition about what happened at sixteen and how it changed her life. Fine, I got it the first four times she mentioned it!
The MMC does not actively appear until we are close to the midpoint. Even then, he has baggage, she has excessive baggage, there are others involved, and whatnot! Except for their supposed childhood bestie-hood, I see no basis for their relationship… at all! Sorry, but all that chemistry feels forced and fake.
Neither of them is ready for commitment. And hence, we get a super-rushed HEA in the last chapter and an epilogue where everything seems great. Nah, not convincing at all. Even the MMC isn’t great. I liked him better until he acted like an idiot and lost all sympathy.
All those 2 stars are for the fabulous setting and the side characters who are genuinely more interesting than the MCs. The MMC’s family, the FMC’s parents, or the other villagers make the book bearable to an extent.
The uneven pacing is another issue. For a short book (286 pages), this one drags more than it should and takes a sharp turn to deliver a rushed ending. Sadly, I didn’t find it witty either.
To summarize, Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses has a good premise and a wonderful setting, but the main characters are irritating, and there is very little ‘rom-com’ to keep me entertained. I’m an outliner, so check out other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ChristmasWishesAndIrishKisses
One Liner: This was boring
Ellie de Vere trades her hectic NY life to spend time in her childhood village, St. Tilda, to help her ailing father during the Christmas rush at their inn. However, she is not prepared to meet her ex-best friend, Liam, the man who broke her heart many years ago. He is now just as handsome, with a lovely Irish lilt, and is a single father.
Can Ellie forgive Liam for what had happened? Will Christmas magic bring love and second chances into their lives?
The story comes in Ellie’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
I read the author’s books before and know that her works are more of contemporary fiction than romance and deal with some heavy themes. This book is no different, despite a cover and title that scream romance. In fact, the title is rather misleading, given there’s one kiss in the last quarter and maybe another at the end.
The first-person POV started well, but got so annoying that I wanted to knock sense into the FMC’s head. Practically every page has repetition about what happened at sixteen and how it changed her life. Fine, I got it the first four times she mentioned it!
The MMC does not actively appear until we are close to the midpoint. Even then, he has baggage, she has excessive baggage, there are others involved, and whatnot! Except for their supposed childhood bestie-hood, I see no basis for their relationship… at all! Sorry, but all that chemistry feels forced and fake.
Neither of them is ready for commitment. And hence, we get a super-rushed HEA in the last chapter and an epilogue where everything seems great. Nah, not convincing at all. Even the MMC isn’t great. I liked him better until he acted like an idiot and lost all sympathy.
All those 2 stars are for the fabulous setting and the side characters who are genuinely more interesting than the MCs. The MMC’s family, the FMC’s parents, or the other villagers make the book bearable to an extent.
The uneven pacing is another issue. For a short book (286 pages), this one drags more than it should and takes a sharp turn to deliver a rushed ending. Sadly, I didn’t find it witty either.
To summarize, Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses has a good premise and a wonderful setting, but the main characters are irritating, and there is very little ‘rom-com’ to keep me entertained. I’m an outliner, so check out other reviews before you decide.
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #ChristmasWishesAndIrishKisses
November 1, 2025
*Choices*
**3.5 Stars**
This was a very frustrating read. It’s told by the main character, Ellie, and at times it was difficult to connect with her.
Ellie lives in New York, having moved around due to her parents’ divorce when she was a teenager. Her mother remarried an American, and this caused a rift between Ellie and her father.
When Ellie hears her father is ill, she decides to fly to the UK unannounced, returning to her childhood home in Cornwall. Her relationship with her father has become distant over the years.
Ellie has a boyfriend who wants their relationship to progress, but she’s unsure. So, going to the UK seems like the perfect timing.
For some reason, Ellie keeps thinking about her best friend, Liam. They had a falling out and she cut off contact.
As she reconnects with her now grown-up friends in Cornwall, she’s surprised to bump into Liam, her childhood best friend.
Ellie faces a dilemma: Liam is now a widower and not ready to date, while her current boyfriend in the US is ready to take the next step.
Ellie ponders her options, and I found it irritating because this wasn’t a romantic comedy. The romance happened towards the end of the book. I did appreciate getting to know Ellie and Liam’s backstories, though.
Finally, we see Ellie’s two worlds collide, and she has to make a decision: stay in Cornwall or go back to the US, and with whom.
**3.5 Stars**
This was a very frustrating read. It’s told by the main character, Ellie, and at times it was difficult to connect with her.
Ellie lives in New York, having moved around due to her parents’ divorce when she was a teenager. Her mother remarried an American, and this caused a rift between Ellie and her father.
When Ellie hears her father is ill, she decides to fly to the UK unannounced, returning to her childhood home in Cornwall. Her relationship with her father has become distant over the years.
Ellie has a boyfriend who wants their relationship to progress, but she’s unsure. So, going to the UK seems like the perfect timing.
For some reason, Ellie keeps thinking about her best friend, Liam. They had a falling out and she cut off contact.
As she reconnects with her now grown-up friends in Cornwall, she’s surprised to bump into Liam, her childhood best friend.
Ellie faces a dilemma: Liam is now a widower and not ready to date, while her current boyfriend in the US is ready to take the next step.
Ellie ponders her options, and I found it irritating because this wasn’t a romantic comedy. The romance happened towards the end of the book. I did appreciate getting to know Ellie and Liam’s backstories, though.
Finally, we see Ellie’s two worlds collide, and she has to make a decision: stay in Cornwall or go back to the US, and with whom.
September 10, 2025
Warm, cute and Cozy! Quite a heart warming Christmas romance.
I was oh so excited to read this!
From the moment I saw the cover of this book- I knew I had to get my hands on it. And, I am so glad I did!
There was some emotionally heavy content in this book. Such as unfaithful spouses, illness and death.
I actually quite like this in romance novels, as it makes them seem a lot more authentic and real. As if you are reading about actual people and their obstacles in life.
Despite the hard stuff, the author still managed to make it somewhat light-hearted, which I think is really impressive.
I think the cozy Christmas vibe really helped to balance things out!
I think it is so fun how Ellie blended her British roots with her American upbringing.
Teasing her dad by using American words/phrases, and using her kind-of American accent to grab the attention of the locals in Cornwall.
It was cute.
(side note: As an American myself, this story has piqued my interest in Gingerbread Pudding?)
The writing style is excellent, making it a super quick and easy read.
The characters are written nicely as well, and I found all of them to be likable in their own unique ways.
I particularly liked Liam’s stepdaughter, Bella! I thought she was a really great addition to this, and really brought in some interesting moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed this! A perfect winter read to snuggle up on the couch with.
Huge thank you to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and author Debbie Johnson for providing me with the eARC of “Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: October 27, 2025
I was oh so excited to read this!
From the moment I saw the cover of this book- I knew I had to get my hands on it. And, I am so glad I did!
There was some emotionally heavy content in this book. Such as unfaithful spouses, illness and death.
I actually quite like this in romance novels, as it makes them seem a lot more authentic and real. As if you are reading about actual people and their obstacles in life.
Despite the hard stuff, the author still managed to make it somewhat light-hearted, which I think is really impressive.
I think the cozy Christmas vibe really helped to balance things out!
I think it is so fun how Ellie blended her British roots with her American upbringing.
Teasing her dad by using American words/phrases, and using her kind-of American accent to grab the attention of the locals in Cornwall.
It was cute.
(side note: As an American myself, this story has piqued my interest in Gingerbread Pudding?)
The writing style is excellent, making it a super quick and easy read.
The characters are written nicely as well, and I found all of them to be likable in their own unique ways.
I particularly liked Liam’s stepdaughter, Bella! I thought she was a really great addition to this, and really brought in some interesting moments.
Overall, I really enjoyed this! A perfect winter read to snuggle up on the couch with.
Huge thank you to Netgalley, Storm Publishing and author Debbie Johnson for providing me with the eARC of “Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses”, in exchange for my honest review!
Publication date: October 27, 2025
September 27, 2025
My Rating 3⭐️⭐️⭐️ this was good with a lovely setting but not great!!
From crying into Santa’s beard at Macy’s department store, to working the bar at a historic seaside Inn thousands of miles away, Ellie de Vere has been through it all this Christmas season…
When Ellie trades her hectic New York life for the twinkling lights and snow-dusted charm of her childhood home of St Tilda, it’s only to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cosy family inn. But all the festive holly, crackling fires and milled cider in the world can’t prepare Ellie for who she finds waiting for her back home.
Her ex best friend Liam is also in town for the holidays… and they haven’t seen each other in twenty years. He’s now a handsome single father with the same Irish lilt that always made her breath catch. If only he hadn’t broken her heart irreparably all those years ago. Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night? And is he even the same man she used to know?
As Christmas approaches old feelings refused to stay buried, will Ellie find the courage to rewrite her future?
So I was lured back to RomCom and I wasn’t disappointed but this one wasn’t as cute and funny as the others I have read this year. It was cute, and funny and it was clean (totally closed door) but just not to the 4 star standards I have for the other ones I have read this year.
The main reason it dropped a star was the repetitiveness of the story. Ellie is a massive whiner and she goes on and on about things from the past when she was 16, I get it she had some stuff go down.. but she does not let us forget it even slightly. For a book that was under 300 pages i felt like it was well over 400 and it took me that long to read it.
It wasn’t bad just repetitive which is the main cause for the rating. Other than that the story was cute. Liam is Ellie’s ex best friend from childhood and their friendship and chemistry are very cute and apparent from the get go. I loved Liam’s family and I also really liked his step-daughter. I think the author did a great job of that dynamic and the reason why Liam is a single dad.
I think for me Ellie is the main meh character, she is very self centred, she doesn’t really treat her current boyfriend with much respect but thinks she deserves the world… I dunno I just didn’t like her that much and she didn’t really seem to learn from her behaviour just thought that she was owed a happy ending.
I would recommend this one if you want something you dont have to think about, it is very predictable but this is the genre for that. It is easy reading and light hearted for the most part. One thing I did really like was the setting, the inn and the community I found myself imagining the coldness of the seaside town with snow and Christmas lights but with a beach that is still beautiful to walk along. That was lovely.
Overall, I liked it but I didn’t love it and there were some annoyances for me in this one that the other books in this genre didnt really give me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
From crying into Santa’s beard at Macy’s department store, to working the bar at a historic seaside Inn thousands of miles away, Ellie de Vere has been through it all this Christmas season…
When Ellie trades her hectic New York life for the twinkling lights and snow-dusted charm of her childhood home of St Tilda, it’s only to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cosy family inn. But all the festive holly, crackling fires and milled cider in the world can’t prepare Ellie for who she finds waiting for her back home.
Her ex best friend Liam is also in town for the holidays… and they haven’t seen each other in twenty years. He’s now a handsome single father with the same Irish lilt that always made her breath catch. If only he hadn’t broken her heart irreparably all those years ago. Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night? And is he even the same man she used to know?
As Christmas approaches old feelings refused to stay buried, will Ellie find the courage to rewrite her future?
So I was lured back to RomCom and I wasn’t disappointed but this one wasn’t as cute and funny as the others I have read this year. It was cute, and funny and it was clean (totally closed door) but just not to the 4 star standards I have for the other ones I have read this year.
The main reason it dropped a star was the repetitiveness of the story. Ellie is a massive whiner and she goes on and on about things from the past when she was 16, I get it she had some stuff go down.. but she does not let us forget it even slightly. For a book that was under 300 pages i felt like it was well over 400 and it took me that long to read it.
It wasn’t bad just repetitive which is the main cause for the rating. Other than that the story was cute. Liam is Ellie’s ex best friend from childhood and their friendship and chemistry are very cute and apparent from the get go. I loved Liam’s family and I also really liked his step-daughter. I think the author did a great job of that dynamic and the reason why Liam is a single dad.
I think for me Ellie is the main meh character, she is very self centred, she doesn’t really treat her current boyfriend with much respect but thinks she deserves the world… I dunno I just didn’t like her that much and she didn’t really seem to learn from her behaviour just thought that she was owed a happy ending.
I would recommend this one if you want something you dont have to think about, it is very predictable but this is the genre for that. It is easy reading and light hearted for the most part. One thing I did really like was the setting, the inn and the community I found myself imagining the coldness of the seaside town with snow and Christmas lights but with a beach that is still beautiful to walk along. That was lovely.
Overall, I liked it but I didn’t love it and there were some annoyances for me in this one that the other books in this genre didnt really give me.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 12, 2025
Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses
Debbie Johnson
Publication date: 10/27/2025
5/5 stars
I loved everything about this book! Debbie Johnson is officially added to my favorite authors list! Ellie leaves the hustle and bustle of New York City to go back to her idyllic English hometown for the first time since her dad had a stroke. Ellie buried all her memories of her childhood best friend, Liam, and thought she would never see him again until she did.
This is such a cozy, feel good, second chance at love story! It is written in such a way that make you feel like you are with characters in a picturesque town in the UK with a warm cup of tea. I couldn’t wait to get back to reading this book to see how Ellie and Liam’s story unfolded. I really appreciated how flawed and real Ellie was and how she evolved throughout the story. Highly recommend this book!
Thank you Debbie Johnson, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
Debbie Johnson
Publication date: 10/27/2025
5/5 stars
I loved everything about this book! Debbie Johnson is officially added to my favorite authors list! Ellie leaves the hustle and bustle of New York City to go back to her idyllic English hometown for the first time since her dad had a stroke. Ellie buried all her memories of her childhood best friend, Liam, and thought she would never see him again until she did.
This is such a cozy, feel good, second chance at love story! It is written in such a way that make you feel like you are with characters in a picturesque town in the UK with a warm cup of tea. I couldn’t wait to get back to reading this book to see how Ellie and Liam’s story unfolded. I really appreciated how flawed and real Ellie was and how she evolved throughout the story. Highly recommend this book!
Thank you Debbie Johnson, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 26, 2025
Enjoyed this cute holiday second change romance! Ellie and Liam were childhood best friends and, due to Ellie's parents' divorce, she moved from the quaint St Tilda in the UK to the US. After many years, she returns to St Tilda to look after her Dad and is reunited with Liam, whom she had a falling out on the night before she left for the US. There were a lot of heavier issues address (rejection, unfaithful spouses, illness, and death), but that's what made it better. I cried more than once while reading, the emotional turmoil was so strong - to me that emotional response is a mark of a great author.
Overall, thoroughly enjoyed this read - a perfect winter romance!
Thanks for NetGalley for the copy of the eARC. Any thoughts are my own.
Overall, thoroughly enjoyed this read - a perfect winter romance!
Thanks for NetGalley for the copy of the eARC. Any thoughts are my own.
November 19, 2025
Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses opens with Ellie de Vere crying into Santa's beard. She is living alone in New York City, and miserable, but vows to make changes. Fast forward a year and she is happy with her boyfriend and his dogs when she gets a call from her father. Something feels off, so she tells her mother and asks her to find out if he is okay. It turns out that he has had a stroke, so Ellie heads across the ocean to the small town of St Tilda, to help her ailing father through the Christmas rush at their cozy family inn. She hasn't been back there since she was sixteen, when her parents split and her mother took her to the U.S. She never expected to run into Liam, her best friend until shortly before she left Ireland. It's been twenty years and he is no longer the skinny, gangly boy she remembers. He is a single dad and is devastatingly handsome. Can Ellie forgive Liam for what he did that disastrous final night in St Tilda? Will family celebrations bring them back together, or will this reunion end with her heading back to New York and her present life?
This was a lovely Christmas romance full of family and shared stories. We learn about Connor and Ellie's pasts through memories, and it was so sweet. Liam's family had a lot of love, but not a lot of money. Growing up, he and Ellie were neighbours and her family helped his in whatever ways they could. Friendship turned into young love, at least for Ellie. When Liam rebuffed her when they were sixteen, it broke her heart. Now seeing him again, learning about each other's lives for the last twenty years and spending time together, rekindled those feelings for her, but Liam had too many responsibilities to worry about romance. I enjoyed all the secondary characters, especially her father and his neighbour, who were friends with benefits. Liam's family were wonderful and treated Ellie like she had never left, and was just another part of their family. The ending is touching and I enjoyed seeing this second chance romance unfold. If you enjoy a Christmas story with celebration, family, some angst and lots of friendship, then I recommend you pick this one up. I read this book, but would love to listen to it, just to hear the Irish brogue that I enjoy about books set in Ireland.
This was a lovely Christmas romance full of family and shared stories. We learn about Connor and Ellie's pasts through memories, and it was so sweet. Liam's family had a lot of love, but not a lot of money. Growing up, he and Ellie were neighbours and her family helped his in whatever ways they could. Friendship turned into young love, at least for Ellie. When Liam rebuffed her when they were sixteen, it broke her heart. Now seeing him again, learning about each other's lives for the last twenty years and spending time together, rekindled those feelings for her, but Liam had too many responsibilities to worry about romance. I enjoyed all the secondary characters, especially her father and his neighbour, who were friends with benefits. Liam's family were wonderful and treated Ellie like she had never left, and was just another part of their family. The ending is touching and I enjoyed seeing this second chance romance unfold. If you enjoy a Christmas story with celebration, family, some angst and lots of friendship, then I recommend you pick this one up. I read this book, but would love to listen to it, just to hear the Irish brogue that I enjoy about books set in Ireland.
November 28, 2025
I read A Very Irish Christmas by Debbie Johnson last year and was charmed by the story and enjoyed her writing. So much so that I read (and loved) two other non-holiday books by her afterwards. Needless to say, I was eager to read this one... until I wasn't.
From the get-go, this story takes too long to launch. The premise promises second chance romance... but fails to mention that FMC Ellie has a current bf, who's a good guy. Sure enough, as soon as Ellie and Liam reconnect, her bf back home fades to a blip on her radar. She's infatuated with a boy from childhood who she hasn't seen or talked to in decades. Folks, I'm sick of this trope cropping up so much lately. It makes 30-40 yr old characters come across as pathetic and immature and gives me a migraine from the eye rolls. Ellie makes multiple references to an ex who cheated on her but yet seems inclined to possibly do it to someone herself.
MMC Liam has baggage of his own. While I appreciated the backstories on them, neither lead is great here or clearly ready for any relationship. This leads to a romance that feels stunted and a 3rd act conflict that feels pointless. The repetition and uneven pacing make a short book feel much longer and culminate into a super rushed contrite ending.
I'm sorry to say this was an ultimate fa-la-la-lop. The heart is in there with the family stories and side characters, but it's hidden beneath too much rubbish disguised as romance. Cut out the utterly unnecessary bf plotline, flesh out the main characters and plot better, and this could have been a superb read and of the quality I've seen from Johnson's previous books and know she possesses. [2.5☆]
✨ Thank you Net Galley & Storm Publishing.
Pub date: 10•21•2025
From the get-go, this story takes too long to launch. The premise promises second chance romance... but fails to mention that FMC Ellie has a current bf, who's a good guy. Sure enough, as soon as Ellie and Liam reconnect, her bf back home fades to a blip on her radar. She's infatuated with a boy from childhood who she hasn't seen or talked to in decades. Folks, I'm sick of this trope cropping up so much lately. It makes 30-40 yr old characters come across as pathetic and immature and gives me a migraine from the eye rolls. Ellie makes multiple references to an ex who cheated on her but yet seems inclined to possibly do it to someone herself.
MMC Liam has baggage of his own. While I appreciated the backstories on them, neither lead is great here or clearly ready for any relationship. This leads to a romance that feels stunted and a 3rd act conflict that feels pointless. The repetition and uneven pacing make a short book feel much longer and culminate into a super rushed contrite ending.
I'm sorry to say this was an ultimate fa-la-la-lop. The heart is in there with the family stories and side characters, but it's hidden beneath too much rubbish disguised as romance. Cut out the utterly unnecessary bf plotline, flesh out the main characters and plot better, and this could have been a superb read and of the quality I've seen from Johnson's previous books and know she possesses. [2.5☆]
✨ Thank you Net Galley & Storm Publishing.
Pub date: 10•21•2025
December 4, 2025
A cute, quick Christmas read.
October 28, 2025
Many thanks to NetGalley and Storm Publishing for providing this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
What an enjoyable read! Oh my goodness, the love story, the snark, the wonderful characters., and, of course, the HEA. This is a definite purchase as an ebook and audiobook as I'll want to revisit this lovely story again and again.
What an enjoyable read! Oh my goodness, the love story, the snark, the wonderful characters., and, of course, the HEA. This is a definite purchase as an ebook and audiobook as I'll want to revisit this lovely story again and again.
October 27, 2025
Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses is exactly the kind of warm, twinkly romance you want in December. Ellie returns to St Tilda to help her dad at the family inn and collides with Liam—her ex best friend, now a soft-spoken single dad with an Irish lilt and unfinished business. Johnson nails the seaside-village charm: crackling fires, mulled cider, cheeky bar banter, and a community that wraps around you like a scarf. The father–daughter thread and the inn’s history add real heart, and Ellie/Liam’s slow thaw feels tender and earned. It’s hopeful, sweet, and very “press play on The Holiday” energy.
Why not five? The central conflict leans on an old misunderstanding and hits some familiar beats, and the middle sags slightly before the finale snaps everything into place. Still, the vibes are immaculate, the single-dad angle is adorable, and the ending lands with genuine joy. Perfect when you want comfort, forgiveness, and dreams coming true—just festive enough without tipping into syrupy.
Verdict: A feel-good Christmas romance brimming with hope and second chances. ★★★★☆
Why not five? The central conflict leans on an old misunderstanding and hits some familiar beats, and the middle sags slightly before the finale snaps everything into place. Still, the vibes are immaculate, the single-dad angle is adorable, and the ending lands with genuine joy. Perfect when you want comfort, forgiveness, and dreams coming true—just festive enough without tipping into syrupy.
Verdict: A feel-good Christmas romance brimming with hope and second chances. ★★★★☆
Read
November 24, 20252.5 this just lacked a lot of base for the romance imo. Ellie was a good fmc and I loved her complicated family felt really represented. Liamks whole story was really sad so I really felt for them both but like, apart from some scenes, I did not feel the romance. Really enjoyed the setting in the village. The ending I kinda get but shouldve been less sudden some way. Still it was good. Loved Bella and the Byrne family. And the epilogue got me, again wish wed seen more romantic scenes in the end as well to see their evolution.
December 23, 2025
Enjoyable holiday read, I enjoyed reading about the Cornish village with the random large Irish family, where the young son was bullied by the locals for being different. I enjoyed the New York part of the story less, which fits with the FMC being so miserable there. The Irish family were full of life and engaging characters, there was also a half Scandinavian contingent following this year's festive books trend, some lovely dogs, a stroppy teen and lots of baked goods. What more could you want?
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
October 24, 2025
ARC READ✨
First a thank you to Netgalley for letting me have this book as an ARC.
It’s a really cute and christmassy read and I love the setting of the story but overall it’s not my favourite book I’ve read.
I feel like it was just really slow, especially for being less than 300 pages I feel like it took me so long to read it as it was repetitive and slow, I would’ve liked to have seen more about Liam & Ellie and not just 25% of their relationship developing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
First a thank you to Netgalley for letting me have this book as an ARC.
It’s a really cute and christmassy read and I love the setting of the story but overall it’s not my favourite book I’ve read.
I feel like it was just really slow, especially for being less than 300 pages I feel like it took me so long to read it as it was repetitive and slow, I would’ve liked to have seen more about Liam & Ellie and not just 25% of their relationship developing.
Thank you to NetGalley, Storm Publishing and the author for an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
October 31, 2025
Another great, easy Christmas book from Debbie Johnson. I wasn't sure how this one was going to have the Irish theme, but she did it in Cornwall!
Its about Ellie, who moved to New York when she was 16, and returns to the place she grew up for the first time after her dad falls ill.
It's a great bit of Christmas escapism, perfect in the run up to the festive season.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Its about Ellie, who moved to New York when she was 16, and returns to the place she grew up for the first time after her dad falls ill.
It's a great bit of Christmas escapism, perfect in the run up to the festive season.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 21, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC. Being swept away to Ireland for Christmas was an unexpected delight. I loved this book as much for the romance as the small, town Irish feel. I honestly wish to go back and visit St. Tilda and it's residents. This book is perfect for cold nights under a cozy blanket with maybe a boozy hot drink.
October 19, 2025
Engaging winter/Christmas story that dives into the impact of childhood misunderstandings, broken families, moving far away and what happens when you have been gone for 20 years. Great character development, including of the small town in Cornwall where much of the story is set.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
November 19, 2025
Debbie Johnson’s Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is a charming, emotional, and beautifully festive story about coming home, healing old wounds, and rediscovering love where you least expect it.
The novel follows Ellie, a woman who has traded her quiet Irish roots for a busy life in New York. When she returns to her childhood village, St. Tilda, to care for her ailing mother, she’s forced to face the memories — and the people — she left behind. What begins as a reluctant homecoming turns into a journey of rediscovery, filled with warmth, humor, and the kind of holiday magic only small towns seem to have.
Johnson captures the essence of Christmas perfectly: the glow of fairy lights, the comfort of family, and the courage it takes to open your heart again. Ellie’s emotional growth feels genuine, and the love story that unfolds is as much about finding herself as it is about finding someone new.
With its witty dialogue, heartfelt moments, and a sprinkle of Irish charm, Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is a perfect winter read — uplifting, cozy, and quietly powerful. It reminds readers that sometimes, the best Christmas gift is a second chance at love.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc
The novel follows Ellie, a woman who has traded her quiet Irish roots for a busy life in New York. When she returns to her childhood village, St. Tilda, to care for her ailing mother, she’s forced to face the memories — and the people — she left behind. What begins as a reluctant homecoming turns into a journey of rediscovery, filled with warmth, humor, and the kind of holiday magic only small towns seem to have.
Johnson captures the essence of Christmas perfectly: the glow of fairy lights, the comfort of family, and the courage it takes to open your heart again. Ellie’s emotional growth feels genuine, and the love story that unfolds is as much about finding herself as it is about finding someone new.
With its witty dialogue, heartfelt moments, and a sprinkle of Irish charm, Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is a perfect winter read — uplifting, cozy, and quietly powerful. It reminds readers that sometimes, the best Christmas gift is a second chance at love.
Thank you Netgalley for the arc
October 29, 2025
Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses by Debbie Johnson.
Published by Storm Publishing — thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who pretend they’re too cool for holiday romances, and those who are lying. Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses hits all the sweet spots—festive small-town charm, a will-they-won’t-they reunion, and just enough emotional wreckage to keep things spicy. Debbie Johnson doesn’t just write cozy. She writes emotionally layered cozy—with sarcasm, actual stakes, and the occasional tear hiding under your peppermint hot chocolate.
Ellie de Vere, our heroine, is a jaded, overworked New Yorker who makes the very Hallmark-movie decision to flee the city for her quaint childhood village of St Tilda. But let me be clear—Ellie is no Christmas caricature. She’s sharp, funny, and emotionally frayed in a way that feels very adult and very real. She’s come home to help her ailing father run the family inn through the chaos of the holiday season. Cue the twinkle lights, the snow, and of course, the past.
Enter Liam. Her ex-best friend. The one who shattered her teenage heart before ghosting the village two decades ago. Naturally, he’s back. Naturally, he’s aged like wine left in an oak barrel guarded by angels. Naturally, he has a daughter. Because this is a Christmas romance and rules are rules.
Liam’s daughter, Bella, by the way, is a scene-stealer. She’s not your classic precocious child trope—she’s layered, thoughtful, and occasionally savage in the way only a teenager with no time for your unresolved issues can be. Her presence adds real dimension, and she forces both Liam and Ellie to behave like semi-functional adults. Mostly. Kind of. They try.
Let’s be honest: the central romance here is classic second-chance catnip. Misunderstood pasts, long-lingering chemistry, the awkward dance of “I definitely still have feelings but I’m pretending not to.” It could have felt tired, but it doesn’t. Johnson keeps it fresh by grounding the story in real emotional weight. There’s history between these characters—both good and gutting—and it doesn’t get resolved with a simple mistletoe kiss. They fumble, they fight, they flirt. It’s messy. And that’s what makes it satisfying.
There’s a wonderful rhythm to the dialogue, sharp and witty without ever tipping into rom-com farce. Johnson has a gift for making even the quietest moments feel alive. Whether it’s a scene of Ellie teasing her dad about British vs. American phrases or a tension-laced fireside conversation with Liam, the emotional undercurrent never lets up.
And I haven’t even talked about the setting. St Tilda is fictional, but I’d pack a suitcase tomorrow. Snow-dusted cottages, twinkling pub lights, a local Christmas market full of awkward reunions and nosy neighbors who know too much—it’s all there. And yet, Johnson resists the urge to make it saccharine. The town has layers too. There’s a sense of history, of roots that run deep even when you want to pull them up and run.
Now, let’s talk about tone. This book could have gone full Hallmark, but instead it balances the line between heartfelt and hilarious. Ellie’s inner monologue is the kind of dry, self-aware wit I live for. There’s something deeply relatable in her skepticism—her refusal to instantly buy into the “magic of Christmas” trope. But the magic still gets to her. Of course it does. It got to me, too.
There are heavier threads woven into the tinsel—illness, regret, fractured families, the slow ache of time lost. And yet, it’s never heavy-handed. Johnson writes grief and hope with the same care, letting them coexist in a way that feels honest. You don’t just root for Ellie and Liam to get together. You root for them to heal, to grow, to find their way back to who they were before everything fell apart.
One of my favorite lines (and trust me, I highlighted a lot of them):
“Coming home wasn’t supposed to feel like this—like every fairy light was wired directly to the parts of me I’d tried to switch off.”
Yeah. That one got me.
This book isn’t just feel-good. It’s feel-everything. Cozy, yes, but never shallow. Romantic, yes, but earned. And the humor? Sharp enough to cut through any holiday cynicism you might be nursing.
So if you’re in the mood for a rom-com that actually respects your brain, doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, and still delivers the Christmas vibes in full sparkly force, Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is your next read. Fuzzy socks and a festive drink strongly encouraged.
Five out of five stars.
Because if I could live in this book until January, I would.
#ChristmasWishesandIrishKisses #DebbieJohnson #NetGalley #RomComReads #HolidayRomance #WinterBooks #BookReview #ARCReview #StormPublishing #ChristmasRomance2025 #SmallTownRomance #SecondChanceLove #WittyWomenInFiction #EmotionalButFunny #ReadThisWithAMulledWine
Published by Storm Publishing — thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for my gifted ARC.
There are two kinds of people in the world: those who pretend they’re too cool for holiday romances, and those who are lying. Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses hits all the sweet spots—festive small-town charm, a will-they-won’t-they reunion, and just enough emotional wreckage to keep things spicy. Debbie Johnson doesn’t just write cozy. She writes emotionally layered cozy—with sarcasm, actual stakes, and the occasional tear hiding under your peppermint hot chocolate.
Ellie de Vere, our heroine, is a jaded, overworked New Yorker who makes the very Hallmark-movie decision to flee the city for her quaint childhood village of St Tilda. But let me be clear—Ellie is no Christmas caricature. She’s sharp, funny, and emotionally frayed in a way that feels very adult and very real. She’s come home to help her ailing father run the family inn through the chaos of the holiday season. Cue the twinkle lights, the snow, and of course, the past.
Enter Liam. Her ex-best friend. The one who shattered her teenage heart before ghosting the village two decades ago. Naturally, he’s back. Naturally, he’s aged like wine left in an oak barrel guarded by angels. Naturally, he has a daughter. Because this is a Christmas romance and rules are rules.
Liam’s daughter, Bella, by the way, is a scene-stealer. She’s not your classic precocious child trope—she’s layered, thoughtful, and occasionally savage in the way only a teenager with no time for your unresolved issues can be. Her presence adds real dimension, and she forces both Liam and Ellie to behave like semi-functional adults. Mostly. Kind of. They try.
Let’s be honest: the central romance here is classic second-chance catnip. Misunderstood pasts, long-lingering chemistry, the awkward dance of “I definitely still have feelings but I’m pretending not to.” It could have felt tired, but it doesn’t. Johnson keeps it fresh by grounding the story in real emotional weight. There’s history between these characters—both good and gutting—and it doesn’t get resolved with a simple mistletoe kiss. They fumble, they fight, they flirt. It’s messy. And that’s what makes it satisfying.
There’s a wonderful rhythm to the dialogue, sharp and witty without ever tipping into rom-com farce. Johnson has a gift for making even the quietest moments feel alive. Whether it’s a scene of Ellie teasing her dad about British vs. American phrases or a tension-laced fireside conversation with Liam, the emotional undercurrent never lets up.
And I haven’t even talked about the setting. St Tilda is fictional, but I’d pack a suitcase tomorrow. Snow-dusted cottages, twinkling pub lights, a local Christmas market full of awkward reunions and nosy neighbors who know too much—it’s all there. And yet, Johnson resists the urge to make it saccharine. The town has layers too. There’s a sense of history, of roots that run deep even when you want to pull them up and run.
Now, let’s talk about tone. This book could have gone full Hallmark, but instead it balances the line between heartfelt and hilarious. Ellie’s inner monologue is the kind of dry, self-aware wit I live for. There’s something deeply relatable in her skepticism—her refusal to instantly buy into the “magic of Christmas” trope. But the magic still gets to her. Of course it does. It got to me, too.
There are heavier threads woven into the tinsel—illness, regret, fractured families, the slow ache of time lost. And yet, it’s never heavy-handed. Johnson writes grief and hope with the same care, letting them coexist in a way that feels honest. You don’t just root for Ellie and Liam to get together. You root for them to heal, to grow, to find their way back to who they were before everything fell apart.
One of my favorite lines (and trust me, I highlighted a lot of them):
“Coming home wasn’t supposed to feel like this—like every fairy light was wired directly to the parts of me I’d tried to switch off.”
Yeah. That one got me.
This book isn’t just feel-good. It’s feel-everything. Cozy, yes, but never shallow. Romantic, yes, but earned. And the humor? Sharp enough to cut through any holiday cynicism you might be nursing.
So if you’re in the mood for a rom-com that actually respects your brain, doesn’t shy away from messy emotions, and still delivers the Christmas vibes in full sparkly force, Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses is your next read. Fuzzy socks and a festive drink strongly encouraged.
Five out of five stars.
Because if I could live in this book until January, I would.
#ChristmasWishesandIrishKisses #DebbieJohnson #NetGalley #RomComReads #HolidayRomance #WinterBooks #BookReview #ARCReview #StormPublishing #ChristmasRomance2025 #SmallTownRomance #SecondChanceLove #WittyWomenInFiction #EmotionalButFunny #ReadThisWithAMulledWine
October 6, 2025
Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses by Debbie Johnson is a witty though serious novel that contains a lovely community Christmas theme but also champions a comprehensive relationship story at its heart. Although it may seem light on the surface, it covers such complex topics as divorce, infidelity and childhood trauma caused by separation from a parent.
It is easy to see that separation from a parent either through divorce (what Ellie experiences) or death (what Bella experiences) can shape the individual’s views and hinder future relationships. The person is scared to trust because they develop abandonment issues. The mechanism of dealing with pain is to put up walls and keep your distance. Never get too close to anyone who could break your heart again. Of course, both Ellie and Bella are challenged on these points but Ellie is the one who has the greatest struggle.
Bella’s loss is heartbreaking. Losing her mother as a teenager means she remembers those last moments more than her younger siblings. But the maturity we see develop in Bella is incredibly uplifting. She learns to deal with her loss and help her stepfather do the same. She even helps him to live again.
Ellie, on the other hand, must get to really know and see her father and to understand his faults and to forgive him for not fighting for her when her parents split. Once she learns why, the whole picture changes for her. She has to come to terms with her past romantic relationships, too, and how things went wrong or are not right for her. This takes a lot of courage and working through her emotions. England was her birth and childhood home but then she moved to the US with her mother. She built a good life in New York but is there more waiting for her? When she gets word about her father’s health, she rushes back to England where she faces many memories. Confronted with the past, through locations and old acquaintances, intense emotions stir. She encounters Liam, her past best friend. They have been out of touch for twenty years due to a conflict they had. We wonder what will happen next? Will their relationship heal? And what next? Their reunion causes the past and present to collide. Is there more to their relationship to explore? Not without overcoming some major obstacles.
I loved the character developments in this story seen in Ellie, her father, Liam, Bella and Tyler. Ellie particularly must deal with two men and make a choice. It becomes easier than she thinks for when she gets away from New York, she is able to see more clearly what she must do. It also fosters courage to do what is best for her and the other people involved—even though it will hurt at first. This frees Ellie to go in the direction she was always meant to. Cryptic yes, but I cannot give away the plot! I can say, this story has a happy ending and for more than one of the characters.
It is a beautifully rounded story that takes us on a journey through lives that we can relate to. Peppered with witty lines that offer comic relief, it is well balanced and delivers a solid romance. The opening with Ellie crying into Santa’s beard was an unusual start and I wasn’t sure what direction the story would go but eventually I saw incredible value and great skill in the writing. There are beautiful English Christmas scenes, too, that allowed me to get lost in the magic of the setting.
I definitely enjoyed the journey (once I settled in) and would recommend Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses by Debbie Johnson to those wanting a romantic story with layers of character development and important life learnings. I started out thinking 4 stars for this novel but because it builds so beautifully with such strength and wisdom, and ends so complete, satisfying, uplifting and heart-warming, it moves to a 5 star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC.
It is easy to see that separation from a parent either through divorce (what Ellie experiences) or death (what Bella experiences) can shape the individual’s views and hinder future relationships. The person is scared to trust because they develop abandonment issues. The mechanism of dealing with pain is to put up walls and keep your distance. Never get too close to anyone who could break your heart again. Of course, both Ellie and Bella are challenged on these points but Ellie is the one who has the greatest struggle.
Bella’s loss is heartbreaking. Losing her mother as a teenager means she remembers those last moments more than her younger siblings. But the maturity we see develop in Bella is incredibly uplifting. She learns to deal with her loss and help her stepfather do the same. She even helps him to live again.
Ellie, on the other hand, must get to really know and see her father and to understand his faults and to forgive him for not fighting for her when her parents split. Once she learns why, the whole picture changes for her. She has to come to terms with her past romantic relationships, too, and how things went wrong or are not right for her. This takes a lot of courage and working through her emotions. England was her birth and childhood home but then she moved to the US with her mother. She built a good life in New York but is there more waiting for her? When she gets word about her father’s health, she rushes back to England where she faces many memories. Confronted with the past, through locations and old acquaintances, intense emotions stir. She encounters Liam, her past best friend. They have been out of touch for twenty years due to a conflict they had. We wonder what will happen next? Will their relationship heal? And what next? Their reunion causes the past and present to collide. Is there more to their relationship to explore? Not without overcoming some major obstacles.
I loved the character developments in this story seen in Ellie, her father, Liam, Bella and Tyler. Ellie particularly must deal with two men and make a choice. It becomes easier than she thinks for when she gets away from New York, she is able to see more clearly what she must do. It also fosters courage to do what is best for her and the other people involved—even though it will hurt at first. This frees Ellie to go in the direction she was always meant to. Cryptic yes, but I cannot give away the plot! I can say, this story has a happy ending and for more than one of the characters.
It is a beautifully rounded story that takes us on a journey through lives that we can relate to. Peppered with witty lines that offer comic relief, it is well balanced and delivers a solid romance. The opening with Ellie crying into Santa’s beard was an unusual start and I wasn’t sure what direction the story would go but eventually I saw incredible value and great skill in the writing. There are beautiful English Christmas scenes, too, that allowed me to get lost in the magic of the setting.
I definitely enjoyed the journey (once I settled in) and would recommend Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses by Debbie Johnson to those wanting a romantic story with layers of character development and important life learnings. I started out thinking 4 stars for this novel but because it builds so beautifully with such strength and wisdom, and ends so complete, satisfying, uplifting and heart-warming, it moves to a 5 star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the ARC.
October 27, 2025
This is my second holiday romance by Debbie Johnson and again it did not disappoint. I went in expecting a light festive escape and got a story with much more emotional depth than I anticipated.
Ellie returns to her childhood village of St Tilda to help her ailing father with the Christmas season at the family inn, not realizing he is struggling more than he is willing to admit. I found Ellie to be relatable from the start, tired of her fast-paced New York life and quietly craving a place where she truly belongs. What she is not prepared for is running straight into Liam, her ex-best friend, first heartbreak and now a handsome single father. Their dynamic is full of unresolved feelings and missed chances, and I loved how the story explores the things we try to leave behind and the ones we still hope can be recovered.
Ellie’s relationships are one of the strongest parts of this book, not only the romance with Liam but also the relationship with her father. She begins to understand his flaws, his regrets and the reasons behind decisions that once hurt her. The healing that comes from honesty and forgiveness felt incredibly satisfying, and honestly, how many of us ever get that chance in life? Watching her let herself be loved again was also genuinely moving. Her relationship with Liam grows in such a real and believable way, rooted in history, hurt and that flicker of hope neither of them can ignore, and it was lovely to see them learn to trust each other again.
Debbie once again delivers a vivid and cosy setting that feels like stepping into a warm hug. The festive rush at the inn, the village and the community spirit all add heart and a comforting sense of belonging. While this book looks light on the surface, it touches on heavier themes like divorce, infidelity, loss and childhood trauma, yet still balances those emotional moments with humour and a wonderfully festive atmosphere. I loved how Ellie blends her British roots with the Americanisms she has picked up over the years, especially when she uses them to tease her father. Those scenes were fun to read. I also loved the scenes with Liam’s family, especially Bella, who brought so many joyful and memorable moments to the story while still grieving the loss of her mother.
Even though Ellie and Liam’s romance is sweet and satisfying, I would have loved one or two more raw, honest conversations before the final wrap-up, but that is a very small note in the middle of so many great moments. Overall, this is a wonderfully cosy and emotional holiday read about coming home, reconnecting with the people who know you best and finding yourself again. A perfect book to curl up with by the fireplace during the holidays.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
Ellie returns to her childhood village of St Tilda to help her ailing father with the Christmas season at the family inn, not realizing he is struggling more than he is willing to admit. I found Ellie to be relatable from the start, tired of her fast-paced New York life and quietly craving a place where she truly belongs. What she is not prepared for is running straight into Liam, her ex-best friend, first heartbreak and now a handsome single father. Their dynamic is full of unresolved feelings and missed chances, and I loved how the story explores the things we try to leave behind and the ones we still hope can be recovered.
Ellie’s relationships are one of the strongest parts of this book, not only the romance with Liam but also the relationship with her father. She begins to understand his flaws, his regrets and the reasons behind decisions that once hurt her. The healing that comes from honesty and forgiveness felt incredibly satisfying, and honestly, how many of us ever get that chance in life? Watching her let herself be loved again was also genuinely moving. Her relationship with Liam grows in such a real and believable way, rooted in history, hurt and that flicker of hope neither of them can ignore, and it was lovely to see them learn to trust each other again.
Debbie once again delivers a vivid and cosy setting that feels like stepping into a warm hug. The festive rush at the inn, the village and the community spirit all add heart and a comforting sense of belonging. While this book looks light on the surface, it touches on heavier themes like divorce, infidelity, loss and childhood trauma, yet still balances those emotional moments with humour and a wonderfully festive atmosphere. I loved how Ellie blends her British roots with the Americanisms she has picked up over the years, especially when she uses them to tease her father. Those scenes were fun to read. I also loved the scenes with Liam’s family, especially Bella, who brought so many joyful and memorable moments to the story while still grieving the loss of her mother.
Even though Ellie and Liam’s romance is sweet and satisfying, I would have loved one or two more raw, honest conversations before the final wrap-up, but that is a very small note in the middle of so many great moments. Overall, this is a wonderfully cosy and emotional holiday read about coming home, reconnecting with the people who know you best and finding yourself again. A perfect book to curl up with by the fireplace during the holidays.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
November 23, 2025
Very typical Christmas romance really let down by a pair of incredibly unlikable leads, pacing that drove me insane and a setting that required a lot of suspension of disbelief.
Initially I was incredibly intrigued by this one, I live in Devon and spend a lot of time in Cornwall - plus our local news and community had a lot of cross over, so I was curious how this would interact with somewhere I know quite well - but it really didn’t work for me.
I found our main lead character really unlikeable by the end, not helped with key character moments only added in towards the end of the novel. For example, her ex-husband is only mentioned 4 times in the novel, once at the beginning but only describing her as ‘emotionally unavailable’, once in chapter 9 described as a cheat and then a name given in chapter 15 where it’s described as ‘what happened with him’. I’ll be honest I was confused when he was brought up at these points as he’s not relevant to the story. Who is relevant to the story is Tyler, a man constantly described as not actually being bad for her, only showing some jealousy when she meets Liam again and is described as ‘looking like Clark Kent’ and ‘Henry Cavill’. I still don’t actually know what he did wrong, and the pacing around this was bizarre since they didn’t break up until 80% of the way through the book.
Liam I also had issues with, I understand the trope of the act 3 break up but by this point there wasn’t a relationship? Most of this had been a friendship rekindling that could have been more but he wasn’t in a place for a relationship and neither was she. It made the whole ‘romance’ feel incredibly stunted for me.
The setting and world did require a lot of suspension of belief as well. I understand using a fictional town for most of the characters and the situation but not using fictional places for bays and places visited outside of the town. The way characters travelled and worked also raised an eyebrow from me visa wise but that’s a nonissue fully in any novel, just was a nitpick my brain had settled on after a while.
Overall, I can’t say I enjoyed it. I wanted to try and get through it for my review for NetGalley but if I hadn’t recieved an ARC I would have DNF’d much earlier.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC copy.
Initially I was incredibly intrigued by this one, I live in Devon and spend a lot of time in Cornwall - plus our local news and community had a lot of cross over, so I was curious how this would interact with somewhere I know quite well - but it really didn’t work for me.
I found our main lead character really unlikeable by the end, not helped with key character moments only added in towards the end of the novel. For example, her ex-husband is only mentioned 4 times in the novel, once at the beginning but only describing her as ‘emotionally unavailable’, once in chapter 9 described as a cheat and then a name given in chapter 15 where it’s described as ‘what happened with him’. I’ll be honest I was confused when he was brought up at these points as he’s not relevant to the story. Who is relevant to the story is Tyler, a man constantly described as not actually being bad for her, only showing some jealousy when she meets Liam again and is described as ‘looking like Clark Kent’ and ‘Henry Cavill’. I still don’t actually know what he did wrong, and the pacing around this was bizarre since they didn’t break up until 80% of the way through the book.
Liam I also had issues with, I understand the trope of the act 3 break up but by this point there wasn’t a relationship? Most of this had been a friendship rekindling that could have been more but he wasn’t in a place for a relationship and neither was she. It made the whole ‘romance’ feel incredibly stunted for me.
The setting and world did require a lot of suspension of belief as well. I understand using a fictional town for most of the characters and the situation but not using fictional places for bays and places visited outside of the town. The way characters travelled and worked also raised an eyebrow from me visa wise but that’s a nonissue fully in any novel, just was a nitpick my brain had settled on after a while.
Overall, I can’t say I enjoyed it. I wanted to try and get through it for my review for NetGalley but if I hadn’t recieved an ARC I would have DNF’d much earlier.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC copy.
October 3, 2025
Ellie has ditched a bad husband, then a series of disastrous dates and unsatisfying relationships. Now, in her late thirties, she has been with the wonderful Tyler for a solid six months, and he is talking about moving in together. But Ellie reluctantly admits to herself that she's not sure he is "the one." To give herself time to think, she travels from her home in New York to her hometown of tiny St. Kilda in England to help her innkeeper father navigate the Christmas holidays while recuperating from a mild stroke.
Ellie has never understood why her father didn't fight to keep his only child in St. Kilda after he and her mother divorced, or even to visit her, so although they still have a lot of love for each other, their relationship is a bit shaky. Ellie is also shocked when she learns that her childhood best friend, Liam, is also in town for the holidays with his young twins and 16-year-old stepdaughter, and still grieving the death of his wife four years ago. Ellie and Liam had lost all contact when, at age 16, Liam brutally dismissed Ellie's sudden desire to take their relationship to the next level. Liam and his children live in Ireland, while the rest of his large family still live in St. Kilda.
This is a romance, so readers won't be able to resist shipping Ellie and Liam, but there are some significant roadblocks in their way. What I enjoyed most about this book was not the slow-moving romance but the Christmas festivities, the descriptions of scenic St. Kilda (but not Ireland, despite the title), and Ellie's interactions with Liam's family. i wanted more about some subplots and characters that weren't resolved or fully fleshed out, as well as more information about both Ellie's and Liam's career choices and desires. But I found it a pleasant story that fit in well with my holiday reading. And I did appreciate the epilogue, which ends with a wedding (but not necessarily the one you might have expected).
Ellie has never understood why her father didn't fight to keep his only child in St. Kilda after he and her mother divorced, or even to visit her, so although they still have a lot of love for each other, their relationship is a bit shaky. Ellie is also shocked when she learns that her childhood best friend, Liam, is also in town for the holidays with his young twins and 16-year-old stepdaughter, and still grieving the death of his wife four years ago. Ellie and Liam had lost all contact when, at age 16, Liam brutally dismissed Ellie's sudden desire to take their relationship to the next level. Liam and his children live in Ireland, while the rest of his large family still live in St. Kilda.
This is a romance, so readers won't be able to resist shipping Ellie and Liam, but there are some significant roadblocks in their way. What I enjoyed most about this book was not the slow-moving romance but the Christmas festivities, the descriptions of scenic St. Kilda (but not Ireland, despite the title), and Ellie's interactions with Liam's family. i wanted more about some subplots and characters that weren't resolved or fully fleshed out, as well as more information about both Ellie's and Liam's career choices and desires. But I found it a pleasant story that fit in well with my holiday reading. And I did appreciate the epilogue, which ends with a wedding (but not necessarily the one you might have expected).
October 27, 2025
Author: Debbie Johnson
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 286
Star Rating: 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
Scoville Spice Scale: 🫑
Christmas and Debbie Johnson seem to go hand in hand for me now. I just adore how she makes her stories so addicting! Christmas Wishes and Irish Wishes is completely compelling and bingeworthy!
The story starts of one year prior with Ellie miserable. The next year she's changed her life - quit the job she hated, is temping regularly, has a baking business, and even has a boyfriend. But the really story starts with a family emergency and this one sees our FMC, Ellie, races back home for one surprise after another. Her father, who suffered a minor stroke, really doesn't need her help because his girlfriend can help him. Ellie and Sandra's meeting is hysterical. But Ellie does help and reconnects with the father she lost to her parent's divorce 20 years ago. Watching her mend this wound over time is tender and sweet. Ellie thinks she'll be avoiding her former best friend, Liam, our MMC (hint: cinnamon bun) but nope! He's not on the other side of the planet like she think. He's there in her little village, St. Tilda. And their first meeting...well, I'm glad it wasn't me in Ellie's position. Liam made an impression on their second meeting. No longer a teenager, he's now a grown man and filled into that manhood.
The book explores past Ellie and Liam's friendship. Before her parents divorced and before what happened. Liam is now a Father and Step-Father. His stepdaughter, Bella, plays a huge role in the book. As Ellie gets to know adult Liam, she realizes she blocked her friend out of her life for 20 years and for a misunderstanding. One "character" that play a major role in the story is the town itself - St. Tilda. I'm tempted to move there! What a darling, lovely town. Unfortunately, it only exists in this book!
This is a Christmas Romance, in the end, all's well that ends well. There's intensity but it works out. Read this if you love:
⛄️ Friends to Enemies to Friends to ? to Lovers 👀
🎄 Food Talk (I want all the food NOW)
⛄️ Family Drama
🎄 Healing
⛄️ The perfect balance of Rom & Com with a side of sniffles.
🎄 Nicknames
⛄️ Christmas Eve Party traditions
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Storm Publishing for this gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Pages: 286
Star Rating: 🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
Scoville Spice Scale: 🫑
Christmas and Debbie Johnson seem to go hand in hand for me now. I just adore how she makes her stories so addicting! Christmas Wishes and Irish Wishes is completely compelling and bingeworthy!
The story starts of one year prior with Ellie miserable. The next year she's changed her life - quit the job she hated, is temping regularly, has a baking business, and even has a boyfriend. But the really story starts with a family emergency and this one sees our FMC, Ellie, races back home for one surprise after another. Her father, who suffered a minor stroke, really doesn't need her help because his girlfriend can help him. Ellie and Sandra's meeting is hysterical. But Ellie does help and reconnects with the father she lost to her parent's divorce 20 years ago. Watching her mend this wound over time is tender and sweet. Ellie thinks she'll be avoiding her former best friend, Liam, our MMC (hint: cinnamon bun) but nope! He's not on the other side of the planet like she think. He's there in her little village, St. Tilda. And their first meeting...well, I'm glad it wasn't me in Ellie's position. Liam made an impression on their second meeting. No longer a teenager, he's now a grown man and filled into that manhood.
The book explores past Ellie and Liam's friendship. Before her parents divorced and before what happened. Liam is now a Father and Step-Father. His stepdaughter, Bella, plays a huge role in the book. As Ellie gets to know adult Liam, she realizes she blocked her friend out of her life for 20 years and for a misunderstanding. One "character" that play a major role in the story is the town itself - St. Tilda. I'm tempted to move there! What a darling, lovely town. Unfortunately, it only exists in this book!
This is a Christmas Romance, in the end, all's well that ends well. There's intensity but it works out. Read this if you love:
⛄️ Friends to Enemies to Friends to ? to Lovers 👀
🎄 Food Talk (I want all the food NOW)
⛄️ Family Drama
🎄 Healing
⛄️ The perfect balance of Rom & Com with a side of sniffles.
🎄 Nicknames
⛄️ Christmas Eve Party traditions
Thank you to the author, NetGalley, and Storm Publishing for this gifted copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2025
🎄 Irish Charm, Holiday Chaos, and a Love Story with Heart 💋🍀
Debbie Johnson’s “Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses” sparkles with festive charm, but what makes it stand out is the way it blends laugh-out-loud rom-com energy with a warm, mature love story. It’s cozy, romantic, and quietly heartfelt - think of the movie "The Holiday" and its love story between Amanda and Graham.
We meet Ellie de Vere, who flees the chaos of New York City only to find herself at her family's historic seaside inn. There she crosses paths with Liam - an old friend and a man carrying the weight of his past while raising his children in a world that hasn’t always been kind. Their connection isn’t the insta-love of lighter holiday romances; instead, it’s built slowly, with trust, vulnerability, and the kind of gentle humor that comes from two people who know what it means to have their hearts broken before. Watching Ellie not only fall for Liam but also find her place within the rhythms of his family life, adds depth and warmth to the romance.
What really worked for me was the balance: Johnson delivers witty mishaps, festive small-town magic, and cozy charm, while also weaving in moments of real emotional resonance. Ellie’s journey is as much about finding joy again as it is about finding love and that’s what gives the romance such a staying power.
If I have one critique, it’s that a few of the comedic beats ran a little over the top, but overall, the heartfelt core always shone through. The result is a holiday rom-com that’s fun, uplifting, and unexpectedly tender.
✨ “Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses” is for fans of Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, and Christina Lauren - anyone looking for a Christmas read that makes you laugh, swoon, and believe in second chances under the mistletoe.
🙏 Thank you to Debbie Johnson, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Debbie Johnson’s “Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses” sparkles with festive charm, but what makes it stand out is the way it blends laugh-out-loud rom-com energy with a warm, mature love story. It’s cozy, romantic, and quietly heartfelt - think of the movie "The Holiday" and its love story between Amanda and Graham.
We meet Ellie de Vere, who flees the chaos of New York City only to find herself at her family's historic seaside inn. There she crosses paths with Liam - an old friend and a man carrying the weight of his past while raising his children in a world that hasn’t always been kind. Their connection isn’t the insta-love of lighter holiday romances; instead, it’s built slowly, with trust, vulnerability, and the kind of gentle humor that comes from two people who know what it means to have their hearts broken before. Watching Ellie not only fall for Liam but also find her place within the rhythms of his family life, adds depth and warmth to the romance.
What really worked for me was the balance: Johnson delivers witty mishaps, festive small-town magic, and cozy charm, while also weaving in moments of real emotional resonance. Ellie’s journey is as much about finding joy again as it is about finding love and that’s what gives the romance such a staying power.
If I have one critique, it’s that a few of the comedic beats ran a little over the top, but overall, the heartfelt core always shone through. The result is a holiday rom-com that’s fun, uplifting, and unexpectedly tender.
✨ “Christmas Wishes & Irish Kisses” is for fans of Emily Henry, Abby Jimenez, and Christina Lauren - anyone looking for a Christmas read that makes you laugh, swoon, and believe in second chances under the mistletoe.
🙏 Thank you to Debbie Johnson, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
October 15, 2025
Thank you to Netgalley for the ARC! Since I’ve read Debbie’s books before, I can confirm this has that same quick, catchy, and warm style she’s known for – you absolutely fly through the pages!
In this story, we have Ellie, who decides to escape her busy, complicated city life in New York for a total change of scenery, so she heads back and visits the English coastal town of St. Tilda, and Liam, the love interest, has an Irish lilt. That’s what blends Irish theme/characters with a UK setting. I found that so cute and cosy to read, especially when I want to have some unexpected Christmas magic hehe!
Ellie’s romance with Liam is so gorgeous! I’d say it’s romantic in a very sweet, community-driven way. It’s less about grand drama and more about finding your perfect place and person when you least expect it, and I honestly SUPER love to dive into that kind of romance book at Christmas time. Be ready for lots of gentle kissing under the mistletoe hehehe! It’s a new beginning romance type of book with heavy found family tropes, it’s more about escaping the past and finding a whole new life and love.
This book is so perfect for December. As I was reading along, I honestly missed the movie The Holiday!!! The vibe is exactly that, a change of country leading to a change of heart. I found Auntie Mags to be so hilarious! She’s the nosy local pub owner who thinks she knows everything and delivers all her advice with zero filler and maximum sarcasm LOL. But the perfect character for Christmas was Liam, the quiet, thoughtful fisherman who always appears when someone needs help. He was the kind of steady, good-hearted person we just have to have in a Christmas book!!
I give it a full ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ xx
In this story, we have Ellie, who decides to escape her busy, complicated city life in New York for a total change of scenery, so she heads back and visits the English coastal town of St. Tilda, and Liam, the love interest, has an Irish lilt. That’s what blends Irish theme/characters with a UK setting. I found that so cute and cosy to read, especially when I want to have some unexpected Christmas magic hehe!
Ellie’s romance with Liam is so gorgeous! I’d say it’s romantic in a very sweet, community-driven way. It’s less about grand drama and more about finding your perfect place and person when you least expect it, and I honestly SUPER love to dive into that kind of romance book at Christmas time. Be ready for lots of gentle kissing under the mistletoe hehehe! It’s a new beginning romance type of book with heavy found family tropes, it’s more about escaping the past and finding a whole new life and love.
This book is so perfect for December. As I was reading along, I honestly missed the movie The Holiday!!! The vibe is exactly that, a change of country leading to a change of heart. I found Auntie Mags to be so hilarious! She’s the nosy local pub owner who thinks she knows everything and delivers all her advice with zero filler and maximum sarcasm LOL. But the perfect character for Christmas was Liam, the quiet, thoughtful fisherman who always appears when someone needs help. He was the kind of steady, good-hearted person we just have to have in a Christmas book!!
I give it a full ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ xx
October 31, 2025
Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses by Debbie Johnson is a sweet holiday read despite Ellie de Vere’s childhood drama that impacts her adulthood. She is seriously a hot mess and has “mommy and daddy issues” resulting from her parents divorcing when she was sixteen. At that time, she was forced to move from her beloved St. Tilda, a small village on the coast of England, to the United States with her mother.
Because of the divorce, she hasn’t had much contact with her father, yet when she finds out he had a stroke, she drops everything, including her new boyfriend and her temping job, to go to St. Tilda to see him. The reunion is a bit awkward as he has a woman in his bedroom when Ellie arrives, which is quite funny. Ellie gets reacquainted with her father, the inn he runs, the town, and people she used to know, not the least of which is her ex-best friend Liam Byrne. She has not spoken to Liam since she moved from St. Tilda as their last encounter was not a pleasant one. When you read about that last encounter, you feel for Ellie and can see why Liam reacted the way he did.
I like the book well enough because the characters are likeable, especially Liam’s family, who add warmth to the story. Liam is a widower with two children and a stepdaughter, and the children add a different dimension to the story. The end of the story is sweet. Ellie dwelling on the past about her parents’ divorce and her estrangement from Liam are mildly annoying because she dwells on it so much. Despite this, I think readers will enjoy this story as it is a quick read. Ms. Johnson does an excellent job describing St. Tilda and the countryside so that you feel you are there-or wish you were.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Because of the divorce, she hasn’t had much contact with her father, yet when she finds out he had a stroke, she drops everything, including her new boyfriend and her temping job, to go to St. Tilda to see him. The reunion is a bit awkward as he has a woman in his bedroom when Ellie arrives, which is quite funny. Ellie gets reacquainted with her father, the inn he runs, the town, and people she used to know, not the least of which is her ex-best friend Liam Byrne. She has not spoken to Liam since she moved from St. Tilda as their last encounter was not a pleasant one. When you read about that last encounter, you feel for Ellie and can see why Liam reacted the way he did.
I like the book well enough because the characters are likeable, especially Liam’s family, who add warmth to the story. Liam is a widower with two children and a stepdaughter, and the children add a different dimension to the story. The end of the story is sweet. Ellie dwelling on the past about her parents’ divorce and her estrangement from Liam are mildly annoying because she dwells on it so much. Despite this, I think readers will enjoy this story as it is a quick read. Ms. Johnson does an excellent job describing St. Tilda and the countryside so that you feel you are there-or wish you were.
Thank you NetGalley and Storm Publishing for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 9, 2025
I'm always rather partial to a Debbie Johnson novel, and one set at Christmas is always a bonus for me. And this was no exception, from start to finish I was hooked.
Well it's not often you get a solo adult queueing to see Santa in a top New York department store, but it's something that I would still love to do, so instantly felt a sort of affinity to Ellie.
A year later, she hears her father has been unwell and decided to surprise him back in her home village of St. Tilda and walks in him in a rather surprising situation which was memorable.
In her time back in the village we learn just why it is she hadn't spoken to or about Liam in over twenty years, and he is the one person she wanted to avoid. Of course that means she bumps into some of his many siblings all grown up now, even before she comes across him. And they soon fall back into their teenage selves!
I absolutely loved the connection between Ellie and Liam, and the whole Bryne clan. I was totally there for all the banter, and the whole feeling of family too. In fact by the end I wanted them to adopt me.
And seeing how from a let's say rusty start, seeing how Ellie and her father start to reconnect and get to know each other all over again, now that she isn't a rather upset teenager, was really heartwarming too.
I just enjoyed actually ever single part of this book, it's a total pleasure to read and very entertaining. I already feel like I would like to read more about some of these characters, especially the Bryne family. I'm missing them already!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Well it's not often you get a solo adult queueing to see Santa in a top New York department store, but it's something that I would still love to do, so instantly felt a sort of affinity to Ellie.
A year later, she hears her father has been unwell and decided to surprise him back in her home village of St. Tilda and walks in him in a rather surprising situation which was memorable.
In her time back in the village we learn just why it is she hadn't spoken to or about Liam in over twenty years, and he is the one person she wanted to avoid. Of course that means she bumps into some of his many siblings all grown up now, even before she comes across him. And they soon fall back into their teenage selves!
I absolutely loved the connection between Ellie and Liam, and the whole Bryne clan. I was totally there for all the banter, and the whole feeling of family too. In fact by the end I wanted them to adopt me.
And seeing how from a let's say rusty start, seeing how Ellie and her father start to reconnect and get to know each other all over again, now that she isn't a rather upset teenager, was really heartwarming too.
I just enjoyed actually ever single part of this book, it's a total pleasure to read and very entertaining. I already feel like I would like to read more about some of these characters, especially the Bryne family. I'm missing them already!
Thank you to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 12, 2025
4.5* - Rounded up to 5...
Poor Ellie finds herself in a horrible, negative rut in life. And when this rut finds her sobbing into the Macy's Santa's chest, she gets some good advice from Santa, that she decides to take. Of course, a year later, things are looking a LOT better for her. And then her mostly estranged Dad has a medical emergency that sees her heading to the last place on the planet she ever thought she'd be again. And now, not only does she have to tangle with her true feelings for Tyler (her current boyfriend that she's left behind for Christmas), she has to face the truth about her Dad, who she's come to Britain to help, AND of course her childhood friend (Liam), who things got complicated with just before she left for the States in her teens, has to be back in town as well! And let's just say that things there are a huge tangle of childhood trauma and emotion as well!
So Ellie finds herself having to really dig deep into her emotions and memories this Christmas, and untangle that knot, and some surprising things come out.
This is not your typical Christmas Rom-Com, but I really enjoyed the messy tangle of emotions, and the reality of the complexities of our adult thoughts and feelings, that we don't always recognise, or acknowledge, come from our childhood. Luckily for Ellie (and Liam), things work out for the best in the end, and the HEA is super sweet! So overall a really enjoyable read!
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley and Storm Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Poor Ellie finds herself in a horrible, negative rut in life. And when this rut finds her sobbing into the Macy's Santa's chest, she gets some good advice from Santa, that she decides to take. Of course, a year later, things are looking a LOT better for her. And then her mostly estranged Dad has a medical emergency that sees her heading to the last place on the planet she ever thought she'd be again. And now, not only does she have to tangle with her true feelings for Tyler (her current boyfriend that she's left behind for Christmas), she has to face the truth about her Dad, who she's come to Britain to help, AND of course her childhood friend (Liam), who things got complicated with just before she left for the States in her teens, has to be back in town as well! And let's just say that things there are a huge tangle of childhood trauma and emotion as well!
So Ellie finds herself having to really dig deep into her emotions and memories this Christmas, and untangle that knot, and some surprising things come out.
This is not your typical Christmas Rom-Com, but I really enjoyed the messy tangle of emotions, and the reality of the complexities of our adult thoughts and feelings, that we don't always recognise, or acknowledge, come from our childhood. Luckily for Ellie (and Liam), things work out for the best in the end, and the HEA is super sweet! So overall a really enjoyable read!
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley and Storm Publishing and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 27, 2025
Warm, funny, and full of festive charm — Debbie Johnson at her best!
Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses is everything I love about Debbie Johnson’s writing: it’s warm, emotional, and overflowing with humour and heart. Ellie, the protagonist, absolutely sparkles on the page — funny, flawed, and full of personality. She reminded me so much of Bridget Jones, with her endearing inner monologue and the way she stumbles (sometimes hilariously) toward happiness.
Liam, the Irish hero and Ellie’s long-time childhood sweetheart, completely melted my heart. Their chemistry felt so natural — full of quick-fire banter, genuine affection, and that delicious mix of laughter and longing. I found myself grinning through so many of their scenes together.
The Cotswolds setting adds a lovely, cozy backdrop, full of warmth and community spirit. I could picture the twinkling lights, the snow-dusted streets, and the close-knit group of friends and neighbours who all add depth to the story. It’s one of those books that makes you wish you could step right into their world.
Debbie Johnson really is the queen of creating characters you instantly care about. This story has laughter, love, and just the right amount of Christmas sparkle.
A heart-warming festive read filled with charm, humour, and the kind of characters who stay with you long after the last page. Absolutely delightful!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this gorgeous ARC.
Christmas Wishes and Irish Kisses is everything I love about Debbie Johnson’s writing: it’s warm, emotional, and overflowing with humour and heart. Ellie, the protagonist, absolutely sparkles on the page — funny, flawed, and full of personality. She reminded me so much of Bridget Jones, with her endearing inner monologue and the way she stumbles (sometimes hilariously) toward happiness.
Liam, the Irish hero and Ellie’s long-time childhood sweetheart, completely melted my heart. Their chemistry felt so natural — full of quick-fire banter, genuine affection, and that delicious mix of laughter and longing. I found myself grinning through so many of their scenes together.
The Cotswolds setting adds a lovely, cozy backdrop, full of warmth and community spirit. I could picture the twinkling lights, the snow-dusted streets, and the close-knit group of friends and neighbours who all add depth to the story. It’s one of those books that makes you wish you could step right into their world.
Debbie Johnson really is the queen of creating characters you instantly care about. This story has laughter, love, and just the right amount of Christmas sparkle.
A heart-warming festive read filled with charm, humour, and the kind of characters who stay with you long after the last page. Absolutely delightful!
Thanks so much to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this gorgeous ARC.
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