A.J. Pine delivers a sleigh-load of holiday cheer, steamy tension, and genuinely hilarious moments in 10 Things I Hate About Christmas. This rivals-to-lovers office romance is the perfect festive escape, easily earning a 4/5 stars and a spot on your must-read holiday list.
💖 Cuteness Overload & Chemistry That Sizzles
From the very first chapter, the dynamic between Gemma Marshall and Theo Campbell is infectious. Gemma, the ambitious office star, and Theo, her annoyingly attractive and perpetually-in-her-way office nemesis (who just happens to be her boss's nephew), have chemistry that sparks like holiday lights.
The premise is pure romantic comedy gold: Gemma accidentally sends a wildly NSFW (and hilarious) gag gift, intended for her best friend, straight to her super-uptight boss, Eleanor. Enter Theo, who swoops in with the save, offering her a golden ticket to Eleanor's exclusive Christmas party in the wonderfully named, hyper-festive town of Tinsel. The catch? They have to road-trip together and pretend to be a couple to infiltrate the party and retrieve the disastrous present before it's unwrapped.
"Pine expertly uses the forced proximity trope, making every car ride, close call, and fake-flirty moment crackle with unacknowledged desire."
The switch from professional rivalry to reluctant allies, and then to a deeply felt romance, is handled beautifully. The "hate" in the title quickly melts into a whole lot of adorable affection, anchored by Theo’s long-held (and delightfully unrequited... until now) crush on Gemma. It’s impossible not to root for these two as they navigate their way through awkward moments, shared secrets, and the overwhelming festive atmosphere of Tinsel.
😂 A Fun and Funny Festive Treat
What truly elevates this book are the laugh-out-loud moments. The sheer panic over the inappropriate gift is a running gag that keeps the stakes high and the humor flowing. Gemma's internal monologue is snappy and relatable, while Theo's calm, often goofy, persistence is utterly charming.
The dialogue is witty, and the supporting cast, particularly the townspeople of Tinsel, add to the overall lighthearted and cozy feel. This is a story that knows exactly what it is—a warm, fun, and slightly naughty holiday romp—and leans into it perfectly.
✨ Great Characters You'll Want to Befriend
Pine shines in her character development:
Gemma is more than just a Type-A office drone; she’s funny, smart, and a little clumsy when it comes to her emotions, making her instantly lovable.
Theo is the ultimate book boyfriend. Beneath his infuriatingly handsome exterior is a man who is genuinely kind, respectful, and has been silently crushing on Gemma for ages. He's not a jerk with a hidden heart; he's just a great guy who's been waiting for his chance, which makes his eventual win so satisfying.
If you are looking for a Christmas romance that delivers on both the swoon and the snicker, 10 Things I Hate About Christmas is the perfect pick. It's a reminder that sometimes the person you think you despise is the one who holds your heart's greatest gift.