His Last Christmas Gift: A Later in Life Romance Set in the Christmas Markets of France

by Debra Borchert

“…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

Genres: Romance, France, Holiday Romance

234 pages, Paperback

Published November 1, 2025

Reviews

[Donne · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Heather~ Nature.books.and.coffee · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Sheila · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Reader Views · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Danielle B · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[CorrieGM · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.)

[Mark taylor · Rating 3 out of 5]

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.

[Janis Daly · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Joanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

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

[Avi Dinsa · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Happily Ever After Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.*

[Chelsie · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[litandcoffee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Love, loss, and the quiet magic of second chances shimmer through Borchert’s holiday novel. In the snow-kissed vineyards and Christmas markets of Alsace, swimwear designer Claire Didier discovers a photograph of a boy who looks exactly like her late husband. Driven by grief, she travels to France to find the child, confront her own past, and decide whether love, forgiveness, and second chances can bloom amid the magic of the holiday season.

Borchert pairs a sparkling French setting with a mature, emotionally layered love story. Claire’s decades-long fear of motherhood mirrors the guardedness that also defined her marriage. Flashbacks to Paris cafés and an anniversary dinner reveal a relationship full of affection and quiet tensions, making David feel vivid even in death. Borchert captures the sensory pleasures of Alsace—mulled wine, buttery croissants, twinkling lights—while guiding Claire toward a hard-won acceptance. The novel’s power comes not from a paternity twist but from the courage Claire finds to forgive, to love again, and to choose connection over fear. Atmospheric, romantic, and emotionally intelligent, it’s a holiday story with real depth.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very intriguing story, which had mystery, romance and childhood terrors. The childhood terrors belonged to Claire and the abusive mother she lived with her first 7 years of her life. She still had trauma from these early years and David, her husband who loved her dearly tried helping her this trauma and was very understanding and supportive of her and her childhood issues. Claire lost David to a very rare heart disease, which could have gone undetected, if she didn’t follow through with his death at such a young age. After David had been deceased for about 15 months Claire found a photo of a young boy, 7 years of age who resembled David.

She found this young boy in France, living with his uncle Gilbert. She went through a lot of emotions with laughs and good times with these two. Luca was a loving and caring child and Gilbert and Claire were drawn instantly toward each other. Don’t want to give anything away in this complicated yet intriguing story, other than saying I enjoyed Marti, Claire’s long time best friend and all she brought with into this fun and unique story.

I received an early, free copy and am giving my honest, free and voluntary review.

[Chris · Rating 4 out of 5]

Full of emotions, this story set at the holidays is about the power of secrets. Claire is grieving the loss of her husband when her life and career implodes. Struggling to find a way forward Claire discovers a secret her husband David was keeping. Needing to know more she is determined to dig deeper to learn the truth about her husband and their marriage. In revealing the secret she finds a truth about herself she kept hidden. Will the secret, even with its pain, be the best gift of all? The beautiful setting, a French village at Christmas time, provides the holiday feelings including a recipe for holiday cookies. Claire is a character that shows her determination and caring when confronting challenges, even ones that could irrevocably change her life and her memories of her husband and her marriage. Gilbert is unexpected and provides the support that Claire needs to work through the secrets and blocked memories. I recommend this story for readers that are looking for a holiday story full of emotions, secrets, and a surprising gift.

Thanks to the author for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Susan Ballard (subakkabookstuff) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one of those stories that could be a Hallmark Holiday movie.
It has so many emotional moments, some heartbreaking, but many tender and heartwarming.

Claire, a widow, discovers a picture of a young boy in her late husband’s jacket pocket, sparking her emotional quest to uncover his secrets and betrayals.

Her search leads her to France during Christmas time, to the home of a bright and charming boy and his handsome uncle. Suddenly, Claire’s world is turned upside down. While she came looking for answers, she might just find love.

I enjoyed the beautiful, festive atmosphere of the Christmas markets, the French vineyard, and all the delicious food. The story is a gentle journey of reflection and forgiveness. Claire discovers many things about her husband that she didn't know, and I’m not sure I would have handled it as well. But, in the process, she learns much about herself, even finding healing from her traumatic childhood. I loved young Luca, a boy who had been through much loss but still had a heart full of love.


3.5

Thank you to @suzyapprovedbooktours and @debraborchertauthor  for the gifted book.

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

HIS LAST CHRISTMAS GIFT is a heartbreaking and heartwarming story of self discovery and second chances. Thank you @debraborchertauthor and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the #gifted book.

Claire is a widow who lost her husband to a rare hereditary heart condition. Claire never wanted children and never wanted to go back to France where they met and married. When she finds evidence that her husband has a child in France with a woman named Sophie, she travels to France to learn about her husband's betrayal. What she finds in France is an adorable boy named Luca and his Uncle Gilbert. Claire goes on a self discovery about her past and learns why she never wanted children and why her husband kept Luca a secret.

The story takes place in the beautiful Christmas markets and vineyards of France. The French foods and wine had me salivating. I found Claire relatable and it was heartbreaking to learn about her past and her mother who never wanted her. This is a story of healing, second chances and finding love when you least expect it. This would be the perfect Hallmark movie.

[Heather Dodge Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Christmas romance, with a little mystery, in France? Oui, s’il vous plaît!

Wander the French Christmas markets with Claire, who is newly fired, grieving the loss of her husband, and struggling to understand the mysterious photo of a young boy who seems to be the son she never knew her husband had. The story skillfully combines Claire’s journey to understand her husband’s choices, heal from her own deep past trauma, and perhaps find an unexpected love and a family of her own, with the delectable sights, smells, and tastes of the winter holidays in Alsace. A hunky wine grape grower, an adorable 7-year-old, a lovable dog, and meals to make you want to book a ticket immediately– this novel has all the feel-good stuff you want this holiday season, wrapped in a surprisingly deep story. Guaranteed to make you feel both festive and French.

[Kim Wilch · Rating 4 out of 5]

Climb aboard the Hot Mess Express, because Claire is driving! Freshly fired and staring at a mysterious photo from her late husband’s past, she does what any reasonable person would do: jets off to France at Christmastime. (Yes, it’s just as charming and twinkly as you’re imagining.) While unraveling the truth, Claire meets Luca—the child in the photo—and his uncle, Gilbert, who may or may not be the steady hand she needs as her life flips inside out.

Claire’s vulnerability makes her instantly relatable, and watching her navigate grief, confusion, and rediscovering herself is both heartfelt and fun. Sure, the pacing dips here and there, but the story ties up its loose ends beautifully, leaving you satisfied yet wishing for a few more pages. A quick, cozy, France-soaked read that’s absolutely worth the trip.

[Kat · Rating 5 out of 5]

just found out i won this 12 3 2025 from Reader Views
just got it last week, today is 12 13 2025, that was fast

her husband died the year before. he wanted kids, she did not. she lost her job and put his jacket on to comfort herself and found a photo of a boy who looked like her husband

she traveled to france to find the mom to warn her , her husband died of heart condition that her son needs to be tested for

she gets to france and finds the woman died about the same time her husband did. her brother adopted the boy

she finds out her husband donated sperm to the woman who wanted kids but no man and he wanted kids but his wife didnt

she fell in love with the uncle and moved there , he offered her a job and figured out how to fix her bathing suit idea of a life preserver in it. she almost drowned as a child, her mother didnt want her which is why she grew up with the nuns

really glad i won it, i read it all in one day!

[Leslie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This novel reminded me of the beauty and holiday spirit of visiting the Christmas Markets in Strasbourg. I also enjoyed the theme of finding a new love at midlife after a devastating loss of a beloved husband, and the way that the heroine, Claire, warmed to the unexpected child that she meets who may share the potentially lethal genetic mutation that led to her husband's demise. Claire's journey to France is also one of self-discovery, as she recovers a memory of an important childhood trauma that has limited her relationships with others during her adult life. Although the reader may see some of the plot twists coming, they add some suspense to an unusual love story. A great read for the holiday season.

[LizNReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

“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

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Cayla · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank You to SuzyApproved Book Tours For letting me be a part of this tour to read His Last Christmas. This was a super cute story and it definitely is one to make you smile especially at this time of the year around the holidays. I don't read a lot of holiday romances but this one was great! It was fun to read about Claire's journey when she discovers a photo of someone she has no idea who it is in her late husbands coat and is curious to who this person may be and why would her late husband have this photo. She sets off to find answers and discovers some secrets she was not expecting!!

Def a great holiday romance read you will want to check out!

[Kimberly Sullivan · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Booksandcoffeemx · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Vivian · Rating 5 out of 5]

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.

[Debbie Rozier · Rating 4 out of 5]

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.

[Sarah W · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book had all the cozy warm vibes that I love about the Christmas season. It was on the shorter side but still well developed with some secrets that changed Claire’s life in different ways. I liked how we got to see Claire’s relationship with her mom. It really helped me understand why she was hesitant and made the decision she did. I loved her interactions with Luca and the lessons she learned along the way. The romance was a little more subtle than I was expecting but I ended up really liking the way it was done. It allowed Claire to really shine. It was so heartwarming and I loved the Christmas setting.

Thank you @debraborchertauthor @suzyapprovedbooktours for the gifted copy.