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His Last Christmas Gift: A Later in Life Romance Set in the Christmas Markets of France
“…this heartfelt holiday romance is an original and page-turning delight.”—SPR
A Tender Holiday Story & Moving Exploration of How Love Endures
Discovering a photograph in her late husband’s coat pocket spurs Claire Didier on a quest to find a mysterious stranger. Amidst the magical Christmas markets of France, she finds herself unwrapping a flurry of secrets, betrayals, and intrigue—while facing the exhilarating possibility of a later-in-life romance.
“Give yourself the gift of a lush, romantic, French adventure and be swept away in this tale of second chances and the magic of Christmas.”—Kate MacIntosh, Author of The Champagne Letters
“An immersive, tender, and beautifully told story that captures the quiet magic of second chances.”—The Prairies Book Review
“Borchert renders the vineyard setting with luminous detail, while the emotional journey is equally striking…a rewarding, heart-steadying read.”—BookView
“…in this poignant and redemptive personal journey, Claire must decide whether to remain an outsider or embrace the family she never expected to find.”—Kirkus Reviews
A Tender Holiday Story & Moving Exploration of How Love Endures
Discovering a photograph in her late husband’s coat pocket spurs Claire Didier on a quest to find a mysterious stranger. Amidst the magical Christmas markets of France, she finds herself unwrapping a flurry of secrets, betrayals, and intrigue—while facing the exhilarating possibility of a later-in-life romance.
“Give yourself the gift of a lush, romantic, French adventure and be swept away in this tale of second chances and the magic of Christmas.”—Kate MacIntosh, Author of The Champagne Letters
“An immersive, tender, and beautifully told story that captures the quiet magic of second chances.”—The Prairies Book Review
“Borchert renders the vineyard setting with luminous detail, while the emotional journey is equally striking…a rewarding, heart-steadying read.”—BookView
“…in this poignant and redemptive personal journey, Claire must decide whether to remain an outsider or embrace the family she never expected to find.”—Kirkus Reviews
234 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2025
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
November 13, 2025
Omg!!! I knew from pretty much the get-go that I was going to love Claire and probably this story too! Within minutes of starting the story, I was laughing hysterically! So much so that hubby said if it was going to be one of those stories, I should probably go out to the living room to read.
Claire is a bit of a hot mess. She’s a swimwear designer who has spent 20+yrs (with the same employer) trying to design a life preserving bathing suit. Needless to say, she has not been successful and several of her designs have cost her employer a lot of money – in liability costs. After her recent design nearly killed the swimsuit model (so hilarious!!!) and probably another liability suit, he fires her. She then finds out that her recently deceased (from a heart attack at 53) husband, David, has a secret love child, Luca, with a woman named Sophie. For years, David had been wanting them to have kids, and Claire was the one who never felt ready for kids.
So, Claire takes off for France for the sole purpose of warning Sophie about David’s hereditary heart condition that Luca may have inherited and that she needs to get him tested immediately. Oh boy!!! All is not what she expected to find in France. While her initial purpose hasn’t changed, most of the story revolves around spending time around Luca and getting to know him. There is also a secondary storyline of Claire doing some really deep soul-searching about why she never wanted kids and why David kept Luca a secret.
The character development for Claire and Luca’s uncle, Gilbert, was well done, as well as David to some extent too. The pacing got a little slow in some parts and kind of dragged a little from one event to another because of the writing. The storyline was definitely different and interesting and, once again, the writing kind of dragged down the pacing at some points. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.7 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Le Vin Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #LeVinPress #HisLastChristmasGift
Claire is a bit of a hot mess. She’s a swimwear designer who has spent 20+yrs (with the same employer) trying to design a life preserving bathing suit. Needless to say, she has not been successful and several of her designs have cost her employer a lot of money – in liability costs. After her recent design nearly killed the swimsuit model (so hilarious!!!) and probably another liability suit, he fires her. She then finds out that her recently deceased (from a heart attack at 53) husband, David, has a secret love child, Luca, with a woman named Sophie. For years, David had been wanting them to have kids, and Claire was the one who never felt ready for kids.
So, Claire takes off for France for the sole purpose of warning Sophie about David’s hereditary heart condition that Luca may have inherited and that she needs to get him tested immediately. Oh boy!!! All is not what she expected to find in France. While her initial purpose hasn’t changed, most of the story revolves around spending time around Luca and getting to know him. There is also a secondary storyline of Claire doing some really deep soul-searching about why she never wanted kids and why David kept Luca a secret.
The character development for Claire and Luca’s uncle, Gilbert, was well done, as well as David to some extent too. The pacing got a little slow in some parts and kind of dragged a little from one event to another because of the writing. The storyline was definitely different and interesting and, once again, the writing kind of dragged down the pacing at some points. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.7 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Le Vin Press for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #LeVinPress #HisLastChristmasGift
October 31, 2025
I love Debra Borchert’s historical fiction books, so I was so excited to see that she was dipping her toes in another genre. I had every confidence that I’d be entertained, learn something, and be impatient to finish and share my latest ‘must-read’ with others! Borchert delivered in spades.
Claire Didier has every reason to be overwhelmed by negativity, but she models for us the process of shifting her focus from dwelling on problems to seeking solutions. She takes her eyes off herself and her feelings of betrayal, and puts them on others, and in doing so, reminds readers that by doing this, we can have a powerful impact on our well-being.
I’ll be honest, I don’t think I could have pivoted and done what Claire did. I know I couldn’t get over the betrayal; I’d be high-centered on the speedbump and unable to move. It’s embarrassing to see what I can miss when I take this attitude. Claire’s steps to protect the innocent became steps in the pursuit of peace and contributed to harmony and love all around. As a result of her refocusing, Claire was able to love again. I appreciated the lesson on the importance of transmuting negativity.
Borchert’s books highlight her love of cooking. Expect to be tantalized with the gastronomic goodness of the festive season. In this book, the Canadian nun, Sister Georgette, takes the baton (wooden spoon) from Borchert and shares her love of the kitchen and of helping hurting souls. She was a wonderful addition to the story. I loved her purpose/role and know we’d have fun in the kitchen. I can’t wait to try her Fruit & Nut Holiday Cookies.
I also appreciated a later-in-life romance where the focus was on something other than sex.
This would make a great book club choice as there is so much to discuss!
If you are in the mood for a tender, charming holiday read that focuses on the reason of the season, don’t miss this one.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Claire Didier has every reason to be overwhelmed by negativity, but she models for us the process of shifting her focus from dwelling on problems to seeking solutions. She takes her eyes off herself and her feelings of betrayal, and puts them on others, and in doing so, reminds readers that by doing this, we can have a powerful impact on our well-being.
I’ll be honest, I don’t think I could have pivoted and done what Claire did. I know I couldn’t get over the betrayal; I’d be high-centered on the speedbump and unable to move. It’s embarrassing to see what I can miss when I take this attitude. Claire’s steps to protect the innocent became steps in the pursuit of peace and contributed to harmony and love all around. As a result of her refocusing, Claire was able to love again. I appreciated the lesson on the importance of transmuting negativity.
Borchert’s books highlight her love of cooking. Expect to be tantalized with the gastronomic goodness of the festive season. In this book, the Canadian nun, Sister Georgette, takes the baton (wooden spoon) from Borchert and shares her love of the kitchen and of helping hurting souls. She was a wonderful addition to the story. I loved her purpose/role and know we’d have fun in the kitchen. I can’t wait to try her Fruit & Nut Holiday Cookies.
I also appreciated a later-in-life romance where the focus was on something other than sex.
This would make a great book club choice as there is so much to discuss!
If you are in the mood for a tender, charming holiday read that focuses on the reason of the season, don’t miss this one.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
April 30, 2026
His Last Christmas Gift — Debra Borchert
This book grabbed me by the emotional lapels, shoved me into a French Christmas market, and said “Surprise, babe — we’re healing today.”
His Last Christmas Gift is a later‑in‑life romance that hits like a snowball packed with grief, hope, and just a little bit of “excuse me, WHY is there a mysterious photo in my dead husband’s coat pocket?” Claire Didier is minding her own widow business when she finds that picture — and honestly? That’s the universe saying, “Pack a bag, sweetheart, we’re going to France.”
And the vibes?
Immaculate.
Twinkly lights. Mulled wine. Cobblestone streets. The kind of Christmas markets that make you want to impulsively buy a wool hat and rethink your entire life.
But beneath all the sparkle is Claire — grieving, lonely, and trying to figure out whether this photo is:
• a betrayal
• a breadcrumb
• or a cosmic shove toward a man who actually deserves her
The secrets she uncovers aren’t soap‑opera wild — they’re human‑messy, the kind that make you sigh and go, “Yeah, life really does be like that sometimes.”
And the romance?
Oh, babe.
It’s soft, slow, and so earned.
This isn’t insta‑love. This is “I didn’t think I’d ever feel this again, and now I’m terrified but also… hi.”
It’s frost‑melting‑off‑a‑windowpane energy.
It’s “I forgot my heart could do this” energy.
It’s “later‑in‑life romance is elite, actually” energy.
Where it wobbles — and why it’s a 4 instead of a 5 — is pacing. Some chapters glide like a sleigh on fresh snow; others drag like a toddler refusing to leave the playground. But the emotional payoff? Worth it.
Because at its core, this book is about:
• rediscovering yourself
• unwrapping truths you didn’t ask for
• and realising love doesn’t have an expiration date
A tender, French‑kissed, Christmas‑market‑lit story about grief, second chances, and the terrifying, exhilarating hope of letting yourself be loved again — with just enough sass, sparkle, and emotional chaos to keep it deliciously human..
This book grabbed me by the emotional lapels, shoved me into a French Christmas market, and said “Surprise, babe — we’re healing today.”
His Last Christmas Gift is a later‑in‑life romance that hits like a snowball packed with grief, hope, and just a little bit of “excuse me, WHY is there a mysterious photo in my dead husband’s coat pocket?” Claire Didier is minding her own widow business when she finds that picture — and honestly? That’s the universe saying, “Pack a bag, sweetheart, we’re going to France.”
And the vibes?
Immaculate.
Twinkly lights. Mulled wine. Cobblestone streets. The kind of Christmas markets that make you want to impulsively buy a wool hat and rethink your entire life.
But beneath all the sparkle is Claire — grieving, lonely, and trying to figure out whether this photo is:
• a betrayal
• a breadcrumb
• or a cosmic shove toward a man who actually deserves her
The secrets she uncovers aren’t soap‑opera wild — they’re human‑messy, the kind that make you sigh and go, “Yeah, life really does be like that sometimes.”
And the romance?
Oh, babe.
It’s soft, slow, and so earned.
This isn’t insta‑love. This is “I didn’t think I’d ever feel this again, and now I’m terrified but also… hi.”
It’s frost‑melting‑off‑a‑windowpane energy.
It’s “I forgot my heart could do this” energy.
It’s “later‑in‑life romance is elite, actually” energy.
Where it wobbles — and why it’s a 4 instead of a 5 — is pacing. Some chapters glide like a sleigh on fresh snow; others drag like a toddler refusing to leave the playground. But the emotional payoff? Worth it.
Because at its core, this book is about:
• rediscovering yourself
• unwrapping truths you didn’t ask for
• and realising love doesn’t have an expiration date
A tender, French‑kissed, Christmas‑market‑lit story about grief, second chances, and the terrifying, exhilarating hope of letting yourself be loved again — with just enough sass, sparkle, and emotional chaos to keep it deliciously human..
November 16, 2025
What a lovely book this was. This second chance holiday romance that takes place in France. It was exactly what I love in my holiday books. It was an immersive and emotional story and it also had a little mystery added in. It filled me with all the festive vibes. A beautiful story about a widow, Claire, who finds a photo of a mysterious stranger in her late husband's pocket. She wants to find out who this person is. Amongst the Christmas markets in France, she finds out about some secrets of the past and also finds a new love interest. I loved all the descriptions of the markets during the holiday season and the cozy, heartfelt moments. The mystery of the photo had me intrigued. Such a fun book to read. Perfect for the holidays and winter.
Thank you to the publisher, author and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher, author and Suzy approved book tours for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
I received a free copy of, His Last Christmas Gift, by Debra Borchert, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. I dont know if I even liked this book yet, its a heavy read. Having your dead husband keep such a big secret from you.
October 14, 2025
His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert shares a beautiful story about loss and new beginnings. Claire is grieving the loss of her husband while facing professional difficulties. After finding a mysterious photo in her late husband’s belongings, Claire realizes she must travel to France to help a young boy she has never met. With the support and encouragement of her best friend, Marti, Claire embarks on an emotional journey just weeks before Christmas. Readers are transported to France during the holiday season, filled with festive music, delightful markets, delicious treats, and a gorgeous chateau. The enchanting atmosphere enhances this heartwarming and uplifting story of second chances and found family.
While in France, Claire learns a lot about herself and her painful childhood as well as how her marriage may not have been what she thought it was. From Paris, Claire travels to a vineyard where she meets Luca, the boy from the photo, and Gilbert, the man who is raising him. Gilbert helps Claire unravel the mystery surrounding her husband’s involvement in Luca’s life, while Claire shares information with Gilbert that could potentially save the young boy’s life.
Claire is a highly likable and complex character. She is reeling from her husband’s sudden death while discovering secrets that were kept from her during her marriage, all the while trying to heal from the trauma of her past. Claire’s honesty and willingness to learn about herself are endearing and inspiring. Claire’s best friend, Marti, is a wise and protective friend who is always there for her. Gilbert has also experienced a great deal of sorrow in his life, yet he is a very caring and compassionate person whom Claire learns she can trust and possibly even fall in love with. Luca is a charming and intelligent young boy who is often wiser than his years.
Although the circumstances that brought these three together are unusual, their relationship feels genuine and meaningful. There is laughter as well as tears as this unlikely trio learns about and helps one another. Debra Borchert’s His Last Christmas Gift is a creative and original story that highlights the courage needed to overcome trials and the beauty of embracing new possibilities. This intriguing tale will be a hopeful read for the holiday season.
While in France, Claire learns a lot about herself and her painful childhood as well as how her marriage may not have been what she thought it was. From Paris, Claire travels to a vineyard where she meets Luca, the boy from the photo, and Gilbert, the man who is raising him. Gilbert helps Claire unravel the mystery surrounding her husband’s involvement in Luca’s life, while Claire shares information with Gilbert that could potentially save the young boy’s life.
Claire is a highly likable and complex character. She is reeling from her husband’s sudden death while discovering secrets that were kept from her during her marriage, all the while trying to heal from the trauma of her past. Claire’s honesty and willingness to learn about herself are endearing and inspiring. Claire’s best friend, Marti, is a wise and protective friend who is always there for her. Gilbert has also experienced a great deal of sorrow in his life, yet he is a very caring and compassionate person whom Claire learns she can trust and possibly even fall in love with. Luca is a charming and intelligent young boy who is often wiser than his years.
Although the circumstances that brought these three together are unusual, their relationship feels genuine and meaningful. There is laughter as well as tears as this unlikely trio learns about and helps one another. Debra Borchert’s His Last Christmas Gift is a creative and original story that highlights the courage needed to overcome trials and the beauty of embracing new possibilities. This intriguing tale will be a hopeful read for the holiday season.
June 2, 2026
4 Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
His Last Christmas Gift was a wonderful story and beautifully navigated love, loss, secrets, healing and second chances. What happens when you find a mysterious photo of a young boy in a coat pocket, knowing you continue to grieve the loss of your husband. Claire Didier tries to fit all the missing pieces to whom this little boy is to her late husband.....and finds herself taking a journey to France to find all of her answers.
What comes with all the answers is also finding the goodness of a little boy, Luca and his uncle Gilbert.....as not only Claire is grieving but also Luca and Gilbert. Step by step, as the details become more clear....Claire finds herself wanting to open her heart.....and also getting past some dark hurts.
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend to anyone who loves a second chance story.
His Last Christmas Gift was a wonderful story and beautifully navigated love, loss, secrets, healing and second chances. What happens when you find a mysterious photo of a young boy in a coat pocket, knowing you continue to grieve the loss of your husband. Claire Didier tries to fit all the missing pieces to whom this little boy is to her late husband.....and finds herself taking a journey to France to find all of her answers.
What comes with all the answers is also finding the goodness of a little boy, Luca and his uncle Gilbert.....as not only Claire is grieving but also Luca and Gilbert. Step by step, as the details become more clear....Claire finds herself wanting to open her heart.....and also getting past some dark hurts.
I really enjoyed this story and highly recommend to anyone who loves a second chance story.
December 19, 2025
HIS LAST CHRISTMAS GIFT was the perfect holiday story for the season! The setting in France at Christmas time was fantastic, as you would expect. It was a touching story that I can highly recommend to all romance fans.
Many thanks to Debra Borchert for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to Debra Borchert for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
May 19, 2026
This is a great book with a lot of depth that starts in the first few pages. Claire is dealing with her husband's sudden death and finds a picture of a mystery person in his belongings. What an insane thing to find while you are grieving your husband. It is one of those times that I could actually really see this happening. It would be something that would happen to anyone and then it would give them the idea to figure put who that person is and why are they so important to the dead husband. It is this picture that starts the journey for Claire. She decides she wants answers and packs a bag to France. This I was totally down for. I felt like her best friend in the book, telling her to go for it. How she pushes her grief aside to start this new journey is something that not a lot of people would be able to do but then again, it did help her focus more on something other than the death of her husband. She gets to France and its a couple week before Christmas, the scene is set with all the holiday charms and music (I loved that). She finds the mysterious person from the photograph and learns about some deception in her marriage. This would have killed my soul. Somehow it had Claire finding this strength that I don't think many could. She then finds out some more information about herself and has so much growth. This is a slow burn romance but in the most beautiful way. It has real life feel to it. Claire realizes that her heart isn't dead and can feel that pitter patter for someone else. The story builds that aspect and it doesn't feel rushed. The timing of things in this book made it all feel very real. The issues that Claire faces are very real issues and she does grieve throughout the book but she doesn't allow herself to be weighed down by the grief. I can't say enough amazing things about this book. I can't wait to read what's next from this author because she has set the bar pretty high.
May 18, 2026
5 out of 5 Stars
His Last Christmas Gift: A Later in Life Romance Set in the Christmas Markets of France by Debra Borchert
This is the first book I’ve read by the author and it won’t be my last. His Last Christmas Gift is a wonderful little book that will have you hooked from the beginning. I absolutely loved the characters from Luca to Gilbert. I highly recommend the book for anyone who loves second chance romance.
Claire gets fired from her job shortly before the holidays. When she gets home she puts on her husband’s jacket and finds something that she’s never seen before. A picture of a little boy and on the back of it says: Our son. She chooses to fly to France to find the mom and warn her that her son may have inherited a heart condition from her husband. The quote I chose for Claire is this when she meets Gilbert: “Guilty. I’d have felt guilty for not giving him the children he so very much wanted. I might have worried he would leave me for Luca’s mother.”
Gilbert is shocked when an American woman shows up on his doorstep asking about his sister and Luca. He thinks she wants to take Luca away from him. Then she comes back the next day and tells him the truth. They get to know each other and he starts to fall for her. Then he has the scare of his life time. Claire jumps in to save Luca and starts to drown. The quote I chose for Gilbert is this: “The doctors want to do some more tests, but you should be able to leave tomorrow. They don’t want you to fly until all the results are in, which won’t be until after the holidays. We’d love for you to spend Christmas with us.”
His Last Christmas Gift: A Later in Life Romance Set in the Christmas Markets of France by Debra Borchert
This is the first book I’ve read by the author and it won’t be my last. His Last Christmas Gift is a wonderful little book that will have you hooked from the beginning. I absolutely loved the characters from Luca to Gilbert. I highly recommend the book for anyone who loves second chance romance.
Claire gets fired from her job shortly before the holidays. When she gets home she puts on her husband’s jacket and finds something that she’s never seen before. A picture of a little boy and on the back of it says: Our son. She chooses to fly to France to find the mom and warn her that her son may have inherited a heart condition from her husband. The quote I chose for Claire is this when she meets Gilbert: “Guilty. I’d have felt guilty for not giving him the children he so very much wanted. I might have worried he would leave me for Luca’s mother.”
Gilbert is shocked when an American woman shows up on his doorstep asking about his sister and Luca. He thinks she wants to take Luca away from him. Then she comes back the next day and tells him the truth. They get to know each other and he starts to fall for her. Then he has the scare of his life time. Claire jumps in to save Luca and starts to drown. The quote I chose for Gilbert is this: “The doctors want to do some more tests, but you should be able to leave tomorrow. They don’t want you to fly until all the results are in, which won’t be until after the holidays. We’d love for you to spend Christmas with us.”
May 6, 2026
Oh how I was it was Christmas 😉such a beautiful cover but what’s in between is even more beautiful 📚😉❣️
After finding a picture in a pocket of a coat belonging to her husband Claire finds herself heading to France to find a complete stranger !
Talk about finding a needle in a haystack 🫣😮
Now I’m a real homebody but I found myself longing for a place I’ve never been to 😂and if I were to travel France would be at the top of my list ! The markets , the vineyards , the inns and the people sound magical for lack of a better word 😉
Claire is on a journey of self discovery , healing and reconciliation . Sometimes one’s ready for it and other times not so much but Claire is stronger than she thinks and she navigates this journey well and I’m sure she wasn’t looking for Gilbert but he’s hard to resist with his charm , tenderness and he’s got a sense of humour , exactly what she needed without knowing she needed it 🥰
I cried , I laughed , I cheered , I got angry and I had so many questions 🙃but I fell in love with a place and people that left me thinking of them even after I was done reading 🥰
After finding a picture in a pocket of a coat belonging to her husband Claire finds herself heading to France to find a complete stranger !
Talk about finding a needle in a haystack 🫣😮
Now I’m a real homebody but I found myself longing for a place I’ve never been to 😂and if I were to travel France would be at the top of my list ! The markets , the vineyards , the inns and the people sound magical for lack of a better word 😉
Claire is on a journey of self discovery , healing and reconciliation . Sometimes one’s ready for it and other times not so much but Claire is stronger than she thinks and she navigates this journey well and I’m sure she wasn’t looking for Gilbert but he’s hard to resist with his charm , tenderness and he’s got a sense of humour , exactly what she needed without knowing she needed it 🥰
I cried , I laughed , I cheered , I got angry and I had so many questions 🙃but I fell in love with a place and people that left me thinking of them even after I was done reading 🥰
May 30, 2026
This is a beautiful story which transitions from betrayal and heartbreak to a slow burn romance in the streets of Paris.
Claire Didier faces a betrayal situation after she finds a photo of a child in her late husband’s Coat pocket . She always knew he wanted children . With grief , betrayal and confusion in her mind, she decides to go to Paris to tell the mother of the child about a potential genetic heart condition .
But the person who greets her on the other side of the door is a man who would open up her life to a more deserving future . When love knocks at your door this late in life , will Claire be able to stare back at it blank or give herself a second chance ?
It’s a beautifuly crafted story. The setting in Paris is definitely dreamy. I enjoyed the book. Looking forward to more from this author .
Claire Didier faces a betrayal situation after she finds a photo of a child in her late husband’s Coat pocket . She always knew he wanted children . With grief , betrayal and confusion in her mind, she decides to go to Paris to tell the mother of the child about a potential genetic heart condition .
But the person who greets her on the other side of the door is a man who would open up her life to a more deserving future . When love knocks at your door this late in life , will Claire be able to stare back at it blank or give herself a second chance ?
It’s a beautifuly crafted story. The setting in Paris is definitely dreamy. I enjoyed the book. Looking forward to more from this author .
December 26, 2025
I liked the book. Wife loses husband, a husbands he dearly loved, gets fired (it is in the first chapter, so no spoiler here) and discovers something her husband withheld from her: he has a son.
Although she has no job, her creditcard still allows her to fly to France and take a look at her husband’s son. She discovers a lot there, not only Christmas in France, but also, and more important, she gets tot hink about her past, about things she would not think about.
Yes, of course the book is sugarsweet, but to me it is natural in this time of year. (Although, some Christmas stories I started were too sweet. This is not the case here.)
Although she has no job, her creditcard still allows her to fly to France and take a look at her husband’s son. She discovers a lot there, not only Christmas in France, but also, and more important, she gets tot hink about her past, about things she would not think about.
Yes, of course the book is sugarsweet, but to me it is natural in this time of year. (Although, some Christmas stories I started were too sweet. This is not the case here.)
May 21, 2026
What would you do if you found a photo in your deceased husband or wife's coat pocket? Claire Didier is faced with the possibility her late husband had an affair. She had always known her husband wanted children but she had never been ready. The young boy in the photo is her late husbands spitting image. Claire embarks on a trip to France and finds the home of the boy. She only wants to inform the mother of a potential heart condition the boy may have inherited, but the man on the other side of the door sees things differently. He believes that Claire is there to take the boy, Luka, from him. Not so easily deterred Claire shows up again the next day to explain. In the days that follow she and Gilbert, who happens to be Luka's uncle, get quite close. Gilbert finds himself falling for her faster than he imagined but how does she feel about him? Claire isn't looking for romance but it seems to be staring her in the face. How can she say no to a second chance at happiness?
June 1, 2026
Claire has recently been widowed. Fired from her job and fretting over how to make it, she stumbles across a picture of a boy that looks very much like her husband. This later-in-life romance had all the feels: sorrow, betrayal, intrigue, and of course, love. Definitely add this to your TBR!
June 2, 2026
This was such a refreshing read on a really hot day!! I can read Christmas novels year round and get into all the feels of them. This story has humor and romance, along with the delights of France. Clair is such a fun character and I really enjoyed this story.
May 29, 2026
Claire became a widow at 50, her late husband David, had a secret. She discovers a photo in his jacket and is looking at the spitting image of him. Did he have an affair because she didn't want children?
She embarks on a journey to France to find the answer.
While in France she begins to see for herself why she is the way she is. Why she was so afraid of having children. Along finding herself, she also finds Gilbert, Luca, and Remy.
This is a great story, very heartwarming and makes you believe in Christmas miracles with a very happy ending!!
She embarks on a journey to France to find the answer.
While in France she begins to see for herself why she is the way she is. Why she was so afraid of having children. Along finding herself, she also finds Gilbert, Luca, and Remy.
This is a great story, very heartwarming and makes you believe in Christmas miracles with a very happy ending!!
November 6, 2025
“I hope one day you will have the courage to confront and unentangle yourself from that fright. I wish I could have helped you slay that dragon.”
Although this is an easy read, the topics discussed can be quite heavy. This story follows Claire, those she has lost, and those she has found thanks to the loss she’s had to endure, as well as all the ways she has to face her past to better understand where her fears come from.
#AbsentMother #Orphan #FamilySecrets #Forgiveness #FoundFamily #OvercomingFears #NewBeginnings #SecondChances #France #CatholicChurch #SmallTownRomance #ChristmasRomance #PageTurner #EasyRead #HisLastChristmasGift #DebraBorchert
Although this is an easy read, the topics discussed can be quite heavy. This story follows Claire, those she has lost, and those she has found thanks to the loss she’s had to endure, as well as all the ways she has to face her past to better understand where her fears come from.
#AbsentMother #Orphan #FamilySecrets #Forgiveness #FoundFamily #OvercomingFears #NewBeginnings #SecondChances #France #CatholicChurch #SmallTownRomance #ChristmasRomance #PageTurner #EasyRead #HisLastChristmasGift #DebraBorchert
November 24, 2025
When Claire finds a picture of a young boy in her deceased husband's coat with some words that send her in a spiral, she makes her way to France to discover why she never knew of him before.
Claire had some very valid feelings about kids because of her upbringing. I cannot believe how horrible her own mother was.
I love how despite this secret she finds, how warm this book made me feel. When she meets the boy, Luca, it's just the perfect scenario with how lovely a kid he is aside from the sadness that had happened to him with people in his life. He had a lot of good too with his Uncle Gilbert and then eventually Claire.
Claire had some very valid feelings about kids because of her upbringing. I cannot believe how horrible her own mother was.
I love how despite this secret she finds, how warm this book made me feel. When she meets the boy, Luca, it's just the perfect scenario with how lovely a kid he is aside from the sadness that had happened to him with people in his life. He had a lot of good too with his Uncle Gilbert and then eventually Claire.
March 14, 2026
His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert is a charming holiday romance but so much more than that. Claire, a widow embarks on an emotional journey that uses a present-day heartbreak to unravel the lingering questions and buried pain of the past. When she discovers a photograph hidden by her late husband, leads her on a journey through the enchanting Christmas markets of France, uncovering secrets, betrayals, and the chance for healing. Claire is a flawed and real character and this story is reminiscent of a Hallmark movie.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 2, 2025
Over a year later, Claire is still reeling after her husband’s unexpected death. After a mishap that leads to her losing her job, Claire finds a photo of a young boy in her husband’s suit jacket – and a message implying it might be her son. Claire flies off to France’s Alsace Lorraine region to discover the truth.
Family secrets are revealed as Claire seeks to delve into mistakes of the past, including her own, and to open her heart to a second chance at love.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
Family secrets are revealed as Claire seeks to delve into mistakes of the past, including her own, and to open her heart to a second chance at love.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for my copy - all thoughts are my own.
November 25, 2025
There’s something magical about Christmas time, and when a story wraps that magic in the perfect holiday setting, I just can’t resist.
This book pulled me straight into the spirit of the season, I was transported to French vineyards, festive Christmas markets, and the most charming little corners of France. It’s a beautiful story about second chances, love, forgiveness, and finding the courage to open your heart again.
So grab your favorite warm drink, curl up on the sofa, and let this uplifting read sweep you away.
This book pulled me straight into the spirit of the season, I was transported to French vineyards, festive Christmas markets, and the most charming little corners of France. It’s a beautiful story about second chances, love, forgiveness, and finding the courage to open your heart again.
So grab your favorite warm drink, curl up on the sofa, and let this uplifting read sweep you away.
November 28, 2025
What a sweet and wonderful book this was, full of love, second chances and forgiveness. This is not a exactly a holiday book, despite of the title, but one of selfless acts of love, of discovering your past and dealing with trauma, of second chances of loving and starting over.
It is a book full of life and food, of town markets and wine, of the best things in life but mostly of discovering that family is the one that you make out of the difficulties of life and the more the pain there is the more satisfying your life will be afterwards.
It is a book full of life and food, of town markets and wine, of the best things in life but mostly of discovering that family is the one that you make out of the difficulties of life and the more the pain there is the more satisfying your life will be afterwards.
December 11, 2025
This was a sweet Christmas read set in a French vineyard where the main character, Claire, goes to find her dead husband’s son.
Claire never wanted kids due to her childhood. When she finds a photo a boy in her dead husband’s jacket, she realizes that he had a son.
Claire feels compelled to let the boy’s family know that he must be tested for a hereditary heart disease that killed her husband.
I enjoyed the found family, the renewal of Claire’s spirit, and the spark of new love all found in an enchanting French setting.
Claire never wanted kids due to her childhood. When she finds a photo a boy in her dead husband’s jacket, she realizes that he had a son.
Claire feels compelled to let the boy’s family know that he must be tested for a hereditary heart disease that killed her husband.
I enjoyed the found family, the renewal of Claire’s spirit, and the spark of new love all found in an enchanting French setting.
October 26, 2025
His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert, is a Christsmas later in life romance mainly set in eastern France in the town of Colmor.
The novel focuses on Claire Diddier after getting fired from her job, finds a picture of a young boy looking like her former husband, who died of a heart attack due to a rare genetic defect.
So unsure who the child is Claire goes to find the young boy where family secrets and a new life may be just around the corner,
While the His Last Christmas Gift is on the face of it a clean romance novel, were a roughly 50 year old widow goes to france and falls for a frenchman,
However as a reader it feels more like a Women’s fiction novel as well Claire does connect with Luca’s uncle,, the novel feels more focused on Claire’s growth as she learns more about her husband and the events of her life and how they affect her today.
While His Last Christmas Gift is definitely a clean romance for Debra Borchert’s novel it would not have suited spicy scenes, as it would have taken from the nature of Claire’s growth throughout the novel..
With a name like His Last Christmas Gift, it does imply a seasonal novel, while some writers stick in a few Christmas related things, trees, markets, decorations, and music, do not get it wrong there are plenty of those in the novel.
This is definitely one of those Christmas “romances” that takes full advantage of the season, in fact it would be difficult to see it as any other than a seasonal romance.
While His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert may not be the most romcom style romance out there as it deals with the after affects of the death of a loved one. It taps into the sentimentality that can be prevalent at Christmas.
So bearing in mind the nature of the story His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert is well worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The novel focuses on Claire Diddier after getting fired from her job, finds a picture of a young boy looking like her former husband, who died of a heart attack due to a rare genetic defect.
So unsure who the child is Claire goes to find the young boy where family secrets and a new life may be just around the corner,
While the His Last Christmas Gift is on the face of it a clean romance novel, were a roughly 50 year old widow goes to france and falls for a frenchman,
However as a reader it feels more like a Women’s fiction novel as well Claire does connect with Luca’s uncle,, the novel feels more focused on Claire’s growth as she learns more about her husband and the events of her life and how they affect her today.
While His Last Christmas Gift is definitely a clean romance for Debra Borchert’s novel it would not have suited spicy scenes, as it would have taken from the nature of Claire’s growth throughout the novel..
With a name like His Last Christmas Gift, it does imply a seasonal novel, while some writers stick in a few Christmas related things, trees, markets, decorations, and music, do not get it wrong there are plenty of those in the novel.
This is definitely one of those Christmas “romances” that takes full advantage of the season, in fact it would be difficult to see it as any other than a seasonal romance.
While His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert may not be the most romcom style romance out there as it deals with the after affects of the death of a loved one. It taps into the sentimentality that can be prevalent at Christmas.
So bearing in mind the nature of the story His Last Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert is well worth reading.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 26, 2025
Debra Borchert’s His Last Christmas Gift is so much more than a holiday romance. Open the pages to find a tender, emotional journey that uses a present-day heartbreak to unravel the lingering questions and buried pain of the past. When widowed Claire Didier discovers a photograph hidden by her late husband, she embarks on a poignant journey through the enchanting Christmas markets of France, uncovering secrets, betrayals, and the chance for healing.
Claire is a genuine and flawed heroine. Her vulnerability makes her instantly relatable as she navigates grief, confusion, and the uneasy thrill of rediscovering herself. Borchert writes Claire’s emotional arc within the novel’s sensory tapestry: readers will feel as though they’re strolling beside her, breathing in the sights and sensations of French countryside markets, quaint inns and the grandeur of a wine chateau.
Long after the final pages, the story stays with you, prompting a question of “What would you do?” How far would you go to uncover the truth about someone you loved? How brave might you be to finally delve into a childhood filled with trauma and hurt? And how do you find acceptance and forgiveness when the truth finally surfaces? One line beautifully captures these discussion themes, “Often, we forget things to protect ourselves. And we can only see things as they really are when we’re strong enough and ready to accept them.”
His Last Christmas Gift is a story of memory, lost and found love, and the quiet courage to move forward. Merci, Debra Borchert, for giving readers a quick-paced holiday escape. Enjoy this gem with a glass of French wine in hand, a flaky croissant within reach, and a cozy blanket wrapped around you as you lose yourself in this heartwarming read.
Claire is a genuine and flawed heroine. Her vulnerability makes her instantly relatable as she navigates grief, confusion, and the uneasy thrill of rediscovering herself. Borchert writes Claire’s emotional arc within the novel’s sensory tapestry: readers will feel as though they’re strolling beside her, breathing in the sights and sensations of French countryside markets, quaint inns and the grandeur of a wine chateau.
Long after the final pages, the story stays with you, prompting a question of “What would you do?” How far would you go to uncover the truth about someone you loved? How brave might you be to finally delve into a childhood filled with trauma and hurt? And how do you find acceptance and forgiveness when the truth finally surfaces? One line beautifully captures these discussion themes, “Often, we forget things to protect ourselves. And we can only see things as they really are when we’re strong enough and ready to accept them.”
His Last Christmas Gift is a story of memory, lost and found love, and the quiet courage to move forward. Merci, Debra Borchert, for giving readers a quick-paced holiday escape. Enjoy this gem with a glass of French wine in hand, a flaky croissant within reach, and a cozy blanket wrapped around you as you lose yourself in this heartwarming read.
November 27, 2025
When I was browsing through Christmas books to decide what I fancied reading this year, I came across His Christmas Gift by Debra Borchert. I hadn’t read anything by this author before but that stunning cover caught my eye straight away. The city depicted is Strasbourg in France and some of the scenes in the book take place in and around the Christmas markets there. I have to say that the author really captured the festive feel of the area and made it seem like somewhere I’d love to go. The market stalls with their delicious food and drink offerings just came to life for me and seemed so magical.
The main character is Claire and she is still in shock following the sudden death of her husband. She is a swim-wear designer with a desire to create a life-saving swimsuit. The opening scene of the book where her proto-type goes wrong was actually quite funny but led to poor Claire losing her job. Finding a photo in her husband’s jacket pocket leads her on a urgent quest to France where she uncovers some secrets which makes her question her marriage.
Claire is a really complex character and I really enjoyed finding out all about her and discovering all about her background and her marriage. Her husband sounded like he had been such a caring and understanding man and I felt for her loss. She really had to examine her own motivations and behaviours throughout their marriage. Through the unexpected exuberance of a little boy, a dog and a handsome Frenchman, she begins to heal and consider new possibilities in her life.
His Last Christmas Gift is a little gem of a read and, with it being a novella, it’s quite quick to read so you could easily fit it into your Christmas reading schedule. A story about secrets, grief and coming to terms with childhood trauma, His Last Christmas Gift is actually a rather heart-warming read with love at the centre, a little treat for Christmas
The main character is Claire and she is still in shock following the sudden death of her husband. She is a swim-wear designer with a desire to create a life-saving swimsuit. The opening scene of the book where her proto-type goes wrong was actually quite funny but led to poor Claire losing her job. Finding a photo in her husband’s jacket pocket leads her on a urgent quest to France where she uncovers some secrets which makes her question her marriage.
Claire is a really complex character and I really enjoyed finding out all about her and discovering all about her background and her marriage. Her husband sounded like he had been such a caring and understanding man and I felt for her loss. She really had to examine her own motivations and behaviours throughout their marriage. Through the unexpected exuberance of a little boy, a dog and a handsome Frenchman, she begins to heal and consider new possibilities in her life.
His Last Christmas Gift is a little gem of a read and, with it being a novella, it’s quite quick to read so you could easily fit it into your Christmas reading schedule. A story about secrets, grief and coming to terms with childhood trauma, His Last Christmas Gift is actually a rather heart-warming read with love at the centre, a little treat for Christmas
September 22, 2025
Borchert's layered novel blends the intrigue of a domestic thriller with the emotional pull of a woman reckoning with her past. Claire Didier, a gifted but obsessively driven swimsuit designer, loses her career after a prototype for a life-saving swimsuit malfunctions in a spectacular—and nearly catastrophic—demo. Reeling from the humiliation, she uncovers a photograph hidden in her late husband David’s jacket: a boy in a French vineyard who bears David’s dimples and a handwritten note. The discovery sends Claire across the Atlantic in the days before Christmas, chasing both answers and redemption.
Borchert pairs Claire’s hunt for Luca with an equally compelling dive into her own heart, pacing the story like a thoughtful mystery where the past (her love story with David) presses in on every step forward. Instead of courting melodrama, the book opts for understated revelations: the specter of infidelity lingers, but the deeper tension comes from Claire’s struggle to face her own shortcomings and to show grace to the boy who may share David’s lineage, and his dangerous inheritance. Borchert renders the vineyard setting with luminous detail, while the emotional journey is equally striking, following grief’s slow burn toward acceptance and forgiveness. The prose is lyrical and the finale satisfying. Thoughtful and resonant, the book is both a tender holiday story and a moving exploration of how love endures beyond death. Fans of women’s fiction and literary domestic suspense will find it a rewarding, heart-steadying read.
Borchert pairs Claire’s hunt for Luca with an equally compelling dive into her own heart, pacing the story like a thoughtful mystery where the past (her love story with David) presses in on every step forward. Instead of courting melodrama, the book opts for understated revelations: the specter of infidelity lingers, but the deeper tension comes from Claire’s struggle to face her own shortcomings and to show grace to the boy who may share David’s lineage, and his dangerous inheritance. Borchert renders the vineyard setting with luminous detail, while the emotional journey is equally striking, following grief’s slow burn toward acceptance and forgiveness. The prose is lyrical and the finale satisfying. Thoughtful and resonant, the book is both a tender holiday story and a moving exploration of how love endures beyond death. Fans of women’s fiction and literary domestic suspense will find it a rewarding, heart-steadying read.
December 30, 2025
Reviewed at Happily Ever After Romance
His Last Christmas Gift is the type of story that lingers, prompting the reader to question what they would do in similar circumstances. When Claire discovered that photograph, the image of the boy looked so much like her deceased husband… her world, her idea of what her marriage meant, all came into question. She might not have thought herself brave to take off on a journey of discovery, but she was feeling, not thinking, yet courageous; she was indeed.
We walk alongside Claire as she travels to France, explores Christmas markets and vineyards, and faces her husband’s past, perhaps discovering her future. When she meets Gilbert, romance is the last thing on her mind… needing answers is foremost. Yet, watching them slowly build not only a friendship but beyond was an emotional journey, one I wouldn’t have missed for anything.
Claire’s story is well-written, so emotional as she faces betrayal, confusion, and a steady determination to understand why. Why did her husband keep this from her? I enjoyed myself in this world, smiled, cried, and raged along with Claire as she searched for answers to questions she never should have had to ask. Her story will draw you in, and keep you there until the final page.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
His Last Christmas Gift is the type of story that lingers, prompting the reader to question what they would do in similar circumstances. When Claire discovered that photograph, the image of the boy looked so much like her deceased husband… her world, her idea of what her marriage meant, all came into question. She might not have thought herself brave to take off on a journey of discovery, but she was feeling, not thinking, yet courageous; she was indeed.
We walk alongside Claire as she travels to France, explores Christmas markets and vineyards, and faces her husband’s past, perhaps discovering her future. When she meets Gilbert, romance is the last thing on her mind… needing answers is foremost. Yet, watching them slowly build not only a friendship but beyond was an emotional journey, one I wouldn’t have missed for anything.
Claire’s story is well-written, so emotional as she faces betrayal, confusion, and a steady determination to understand why. Why did her husband keep this from her? I enjoyed myself in this world, smiled, cried, and raged along with Claire as she searched for answers to questions she never should have had to ask. Her story will draw you in, and keep you there until the final page.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
December 8, 2025
Claire is still grieving the death of her husband when she finds a photograph of a child in one of his Claire is still grieving the death of her husband when she finds a photograph of a child in one of his coat pockets. Shocked, Claire realizes this child looks just like her husband. Who is this child and how could he do this to her? Keep such a secret? As hurt and angry as she is, she decides she needs to find this child and the answers she must find to hopefully give her closure. Off to France she goes with no real plan but finds that many already know who she is and knew her husband well. Tracking down the winery that her husband was associated with may have the answers, however it's as if the man was waiting for her to eventually show up. Things don't start off well and Claire knows she must at least let them know about David's medical history. Gilbert was under the impression Claire was there to take the child and Claire did not quite understand who Gilbert was at first. After the misunderstanding, the two come to understand and respect each other and Claire gets more than just the answers she was seeking during this Christmas season. I enjoyed this holiday read and loved how Claire really found answers about herself as well. Thank you to the author for the complementary novel and to Suzy Approved Book Tours for the invite. This review is of my own opinion and accord.
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