Once Upon a Time in December: A Sapphic Holiday Romance of Self-Discovery and Second Chances

by Alyson Root, Linda Slate (Editor), Crystal Lee-Wren (Editor)

WHAT IF THE WRONG PROPOSAL LED YOU TO THE RIGHT PERSON?

One disastrous Christmas proposal. One free-spirited violinist. One year that changes everything.

Whitley Dupont has it a high-powered finance job, a picture-perfect fiancé, and a five-year plan—until it all falls apart at her family’s Christmas gala.

Enter Layla Simmons, a quirky British violinist with a classical-pop sound and a knack for turning disasters into unforgettable moments. What starts as a comforting conversation over peppermint cocoa turns into long-distance calls, unexpected feelings, and a slow unravelling of everything Whitley thought she knew about love—and herself.

As the holidays pass and seasons change, Whitley must decide if she’s brave enough to rewrite her story and follow her heart toward the most unexpected person of all.

A warm, witty sapphic romance about second chances, sexual awakening, and finding harmony where you least expect it.

Genres: Romance, Lesbian, Christmas, Holiday, LGBT, Queer, Contemporary

442 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 3, 2025

About the author

Alyson was born and raised in the heart of England. She moved to Paris in 2015 when she met her wife. Together they moved to the west of France where they now live with their two dogs and pet bird. Alyson spends her time running a small campsite and holiday home. During her off time, she loves to read lesbian romance books, write and Scuba Dive.

Reviews

[Stuffl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novel is like a hot cup of chocolate with lots of marshmallows. It warms your heart and your stomach, and everything feels extremely cozy. In addition to the great cover, which could really come from a fairy tale, it was a beautiful story with little drama but lots of chemistry and attraction.

The dynamic between the two main characters, Layla and Whitley, was damn good from the very first meeting. Paired with the winter month of December, it was just a wonderful atmosphere. A great attraction, a delicious slow burn with lots of waiting, steadily increasing longing and desire, and two very interesting and independent women made this holiday novel almost perfect for me!

I enjoyed immersing myself in the world of Layla and Whitley, who had so much patience and love for each other. A story that not only felt comfortable, but also didn't need a third-act breakup to keep the tension going.

I’ve read several books by Alyson Root, and this one confirms once again that she has an incredibly beautiful writing style. One that allows you to see the characters before your eyes and resonate with every emotion.

Highly recommended, especially now for the cold season.

Thanks to Alyson Root for the ARC. I had a lot of fun and enjoyed it very much. The book somehow makes the world out there a little more wholesome.

[Unpopmary · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 ⭐

Once Upon a Time in December is a cozy and lighthearted strangers-to-lovers romance where Whitley and Layla meet every year at Whitley’s family gala. Through these yearly encounters, we get to see their friendship gradually bloom into something deeper and more meaningful.

Whitley, part of the wealthy Dupont family, is the eldest sister and heir to her family’s empire. She’s a bit of a perfectionist—driven, responsible, and always striving to meet expectations. Even though she grew up surrounded by privilege, she’s incredibly humble and spends her time helping kids from orphanages and supporting underrepresented groups. I really liked seeing her step out of her comfort zone and focus on her own happiness for once. Watching her grow more confident and learn to value herself beyond her work was truly rewarding. Then there’s Layla—an absolute sweetheart and a total force of nature. I loved how supportive she was of Whitley’s sapphic awakening and how patient and respectful she remained throughout their journey. She was such a genuine, memorable character.

The romance itself was just beautiful. Their first meeting felt like a scene straight out of a movie—romantic, warm, and sincere. From the start, their chemistry was undeniable and only grew stronger as the story unfolded. The slow burn was perfectly executed; nothing ever felt rushed. Instead, their bond was built on friendship first, which made their eventual romantic connection feel even more authentic. The “toaster oven” moment was handled so naturally, and I appreciated how the author portrayed emotional vulnerability and physical intimacy with such care and realism.

The writing style was lyrical and steady. Even though the story isn’t packed with angst or heavy drama, it never felt dull. The dialogue flowed effortlessly and felt genuine, which made it easy to stay invested.

Overall, this is the perfect read for the holiday season. It’s tender, heartwarming, and filled with moments that made me swoon. The cozy vibes and emotional depth had me eagerly turning the pages, rooting for Whitley and Layla the whole way. Honestly, it was just that good. 🎄💖

[Leonie · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (3.75 stars, rounded up)

This is such a cute and lighthearted romance which perfectly fits the current christmas/winter season

I liked the main characters Layla and Whitley, their dynamic was really sweet right off the start and I adored reading how their relationship developed over time and over the different christmases. Especially at the beginning when the two kept meeting up at the Dupont Christmas Party and spent some time after that. It felt like the chemistry was developed very nicely and felt natural till they realized that they felt more for each other than just a simple friendship.
Speaking about characters in general, I also liked how the side characters were written, both Layla’s and Whitley’s parents were so adorable and Whitley’s siblings were written soo good just as well.
However, in my opinion, the story was written a bit too nicely and happily that I got this feeling of “it’s too good to be true” and some parts just felt unrealistic because of that. I missed a few conflicts along the way instead of it all running so smoothly. But, then again, this is supposed to be a light and happy romance so it still fits its general vibe.
Overall, the writing as well as the pacing were good. I practically flew through the book due to it being so easy to read which is a big plus.
A solid 3.75 star lighthearted romance that I’d recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing me with a free copy of this book. My review All thoughts and opinions are my own, and I left this review voluntarily.

[Juniper L.H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this novel. This is a perfect holiday story, and romance. It was just relentlessly heartwarming and positive and a lot of fun. I keep forgetting about this author and then whenever I read one of their novels I am blown away all over again because they are always incredibly good. Hopefully I learn my lesson this time. I highly recommend this to everyone.

Rating: A+ / 5-Stars

Sometimes the relationship is enough of a plotline, and enough of a struggle. This novel showed that. There was very little conflict beyond some very normal and believable external obstacles; work, minor family drama, and their own personal life struggles. There were no crazy exes, no evil plots, no overly convenient walking into a room and misunderstanding something, etc.. This was just a nice story, and sometimes that’s what you need.

Highlights:
-I LOVED both protagonists. They were fully developed people who were realistic (mostly) and relatable (mostly, lol). They had very clear and real personalities and I would love to be friends with either of them. Each had a clear and satisfying character arc in addition to everything else that was going on.
-LOVED the twins. This novel had a lot of excellent characters. It did not feel small like some novels do; this story lives in a much wider world.
-The writing in this novel was incredibly well done. Lyrical, a little poetic at times, and easy to connect with. Sometimes it almost felt a little over-the-top magical, but it worked so its all good!
-I actually laughed out loud. Giggled a bit. I don’t often do that. This novel was delightful.
-I loved Whitley, her charity and good deeds and genuinely caring soul. It was aaaalmost too over-the-top perfect, but once again I enjoyed it too much to care. These are the types of rich people we need in the world.
-This was a novel for music lovers. A love letter, if you will.
-The timeline; I generally hate time skips unless they are done incredibly well and serve a genuine purpose, and this novel accomplished both of those things. The timeline was nice and long and gave their relationship a lot of time to develop in a genuine and believable way. Honestly watching their relationship slowly build over time in different layers was an incredibly satisfying thing to experience.
-The contrast and juxtaposition of rich and “not rich” was done very well. It wasn’t ignored and yet it didn’t become the primary backdrop of the novel as is so common in these cases.
-The COMMUNICATION!! It wasn’t always perfect, but overall this was such an excellent example of communication successes.
-The family dynamics. ALL of them! There were so many lovely characters and interpersonal dynamics. This was a fun novel full of joy.
-So honestly, sometimes you just want a relentlessly positive novel and that’s exactly what this was. Almost to the point where its unrealistic and you might be missing something (plot-wise), yet I was fully satisfied.

If I’m Complaining….:
-Ok so at the start of the book Whitley just straight-up assaults her ex. It’s played off cuter than that, and he deserved it, and honestly I thoroughly enjoyed reading it (ugh, I’m sorry!), but it should be said that it’s objectively not ok. The novel moved on from this without truly addressing it and everyone is apparently fine with it, but it’s not a good look dear. I think the author could have thought this through a bit more and taken an alternative approach on this part. In reality there likely would have been police/lawsuits involved and quite the scandal.
-In some aspects this novel was light on details and glazed over some scenes faster than I would have liked.
-Who watches Whitley’s cat when she is gone? I’m sure this rich lady has a plan, but it was just never addressed. She jet’s all over the world and I hope that cat is taken care of.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.

[Clara Addicted to sapphic books · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really liked Whitley and Layla. I loved how their relationship starts, and with the time jumps, the relationship moves really quickly, which is satisfying to read. I felt their connection from the start, and despite a huge wealth gap, it was never an issue. They are opposites, but they clicked. Whitley and her family seemed too good to be true: simple, generous, and down to earth. Their relationship was simple, obvious, and healthy. I was just a bit frustrated not to have witnessed Layla and Whitley getting close during the year gap, with numerous things happening off scene. I wish I could have read some text exchanges or scenes with phone calls, and also Layla capturing Whitley's family's heart. Overall this was the perfect cozy, sweet, an angst free (maybe too much) read. Perfect for the holiday season.

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once Upon a Time in December is, without a doubt, delightful. Whitley and Layla are charming and their interactions are full of whimsy or sexy as hell 😉
4.5⭐️ for Whitley and Layla 🎄

If there anything I’d have liked to have seen it would have been snippets of their text and face time conversations that take place while Whitley is in London. I know there’s two years between them before they get together, however, it comes across almost like insta love without witnessing them growing closer.

[Tierney Moore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once Upon a Time in December is a heartwarming holiday romance that captures the spirit of self-discovery and second chances. I was swept up in the cozy atmosphere and the beautifully developed relationship between the two main characters, like a delicious cup of hot chocolate—comforting and sweet.

The story centers on Whitley Dupont, whose disastrous public proposal humiliation leads her directly to Layla Simmons, a witty, free-spirited British violinist. What begins as a comforting, late-night conversation evolves over the course of a year into long-distance calls and unexpected feelings, challenging everything Whitley thought she knew about herself.

Alyson Root executes this slow-burn romance well. The dynamic between Whitley and Layla is electric from their first meeting, but Ms. Root allows their connection to be built on a foundation of genuine friendship. Watching Whitley shed her corporate perfectionism and embrace her sexual awakening was fun, and Layla’s patience and support made her a delight of a character. The writing style makes it easy to settle in and root for their inevitable happiness as the story sidesteps the tired trope of unnecessary conflict.

I give it a four instead of a five because, although it is charming, it occasionally feels too smooth. I do enjoy stories low on angst between the MCs, especially at this time of year, but the sacrifice of any real dramatic tension for sweetness keeps the story on its single dimension. While I appreciated the positivity and support of all the supporting characters, a few more external obstacles would have given the plot a stronger forward drive.

But if you’re looking for full-on sweet at Christmas, a tender, low-angst, sapphic holiday romance filled with undeniable chemistry, a few memorable characters, and that signature seasonal magic, Once Upon a Time in December will tick your boxes—good for snuggling up during the cold season.

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whew Alyson you have out done yourself with this book! I loved every part from start to finish!
Layla is a breath of fresh air. Whitley was so open and could go toe to toe with Layla. The supportive cast were interesting and unique, from the members of the quartet to the twin siblings, offering commentary and shenanigans. Both Layla’s and Whitley’s parents were just amazing and everything you would want to have and/or be for parenting. The DuPont’s are the wealthy of the wealthy and let me just say the way they behave in both business and personal relationships and situations is how every one of that status (everyone really but especially the extreme wealthy) should strive for, in all aspects including active philanthropy and care for others in so many ways. It was a true pleasure to read this story. Highly recommend!

[Sam]

Much like summer this is a time of year i look for fun and lighthearted reads. This book hits the spot.
Once Upon a Time in December tells the story of two women forming a quick bond that becomes undeniable love.
A chance meeting, kindness of a stranger and some unfiltered comments make this book a joy to read.

We have some time jumps in this book and at first that was a little weird for me, but when I came to expect them it made sense. You get more of a feel for the life that these characters live. I do feel kinda sad about missing out on the years, just because I like them so much!

Sometimes a bit too good to be true? Maybe. But let’s just believe in a little fun and lightheartedness. (Plus unfiltered comments, this character might be one of my favs ever).

[Andrea (looseleftlesbian) · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read this book in probably under 12 hours. I had to force myself to go to bed last night. This story was such a breath of fresh air. It was a wonderful Christmas/holiday read I can see myself going back to every December.

I loved both Whitley and Layla, but especially Layla. There was just something really infectious about her! All the characters loved her and I can say if she was a real person, I’d feel the same way. Chemistry was off the charts! There was literally no angst. I hope we get a future novella or extended epilogue and see Whitley and Layla with kids. This was easily five stars.

[wren4777]

I understand why she was driven to that point, but I have a hard time rooting for a main character who literally assaults her ex in the first two chapters.

[Julia J · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is incredibly sweet – like really reaaally sweet.
The main couple, Layla and Whitley, I absolutely adore them! Especially Layla with her quirky and (sometimes overly)honest personality :p Their first meeting was super wholesome and instantly put a smile on my face, and tbh I caught myself grinning more than a few times while reading this book.
So yeah, if you're in the mood for something simple, cute and heart-warming, with barely any drama and just two sapphics being soft and happy together I definitely recommend!

[Gill · Rating 4 out of 5]

Whitley the rich socialite working for a family dynasty in NY. Layla chaotic British outspoken violinist. Unusual match but the author brings them together slowly and over a couple of years.

The subject of Whitley's new found bisexuality is covered carefully. Everything about this book was just 'careful' I felt more risks could have been taken. 

Its as always very well written and an enjoyable festive read. 

[Candace Aresfury · Rating 4 out of 5]

So so very cozy and sweet, almost tooth-achingly sweet. Very low to no angst, but also with some good spice. If you’re looking for a book with no conflict and just a sweet sweet love story then this is it. It’s very hallmark movieish but where everything goes as well as possible type of hallmark movie.

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cracker of a start!
I was too busy reading to make many notes, but I did take note of the smile that barely left my face reading this perfect holiday book.
No angst, no drama but a story that I loved reading every word of!

[Misha · Rating 4 out of 5]

(rounded up from 3.5)

This is the kind of low-angst, almost-fairy tale with basically no conflict that I would likely not enjoy much the rest of the year, but perfect for this time of year. The characters are cute and good fits for each other, and the premise of meeting once a year at the beginning is cute, but they get together around the middle, and then there isn't very much that happens after. Cozy, cute, and sweet, though.

The more I think of it, the more I think it's a bit of a wasted potential because there is no way that in the real world a relationship that is so deeply unbalanced financially would work so effortlessly well. Whitley and Layla also have a massively different approach to money, careers, and creative flexibility, so it always feels to me that there is a lot of potential drama that is just... ignored. For example, confirming taking Layla and her recently injured parents to NYC from England on a whim for Christmas seems like a move that would at least merit a firm conversation about using money to influence holiday plans without asking the people in question at all. It's all very lovey dovey and smooth sailing no matter what, which, as I said, I appreciate at this time of year but would probably not review as kindly at any other time of year.

[a. · Rating 3 out of 5]

such a sweet story!!

i loved reading this one, because it brought such tender feelings. the storyline of the gala, whitley’s characterization (her heartbreak at being rejected by that douche), layla’s bluntness and music aspirations all interwove with the holiday atmosphere so well to create a whimsical but straightforward love story.

watching layla’s chaos endear whitley and whitley’s sweetness hold thrall over layla was so rewarding. “i am home, whit.” - and the ending was, of course, so cute and a good show of how their happiness will continue beyond the pages.

[Simone11 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wonderful X-Mas story. Loved it very much.

[Pers · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely magical! 💙

[Lucie · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was cute. I like the concept of them meeting every year, it was fun. But then they got together halfway through the book and that was kind of it? There was no conflict, everything was smooth sailing all the way to the last page. It was a bit boring if I'm completely honest, you could stop reading at any point because you know they are already together and it's not going to change. I think this works for fanfictions where you already have a strong attachment to the characters but not when you've just met them.

It's a fairy tale for adults.

[SJ · Rating 5 out of 5]

🏳️‍🌈Rep: Sapphic, Lesbian FMC, Queer FMC, Queer SCs

📝Tropes/Themes: Rich/Poor, Strangers to Friends to Lovers, Femme/Femme, Toaster Oven, Quirky Characters, No Third Act Breakup, Coming Out, Holiday Fun

What a truly delightful start to my holiday reading for the year! This was such a fun, lighthearted read filled with whimsy and wonder from start to finish!

After a heart wrenching denial to a very public proposal, Whitley Dupont’s polished and professional veneer begins to crack. And after further public humiliation by the person she was ready to marry, it completely shatters. Also very publicly. I mean…what a start to a book! But this proposal gone wrong leads to one of the best, most romantic meet-cutes imaginable!

Layla Simmons was already admiring the attractive woman before the spectacles began from her perch with the quartet providing music for the Dupont’s gala that evening. So when she stumbles across her in the alley after the event hurling Christmas ornaments with unconcealed rage and anguish, she can’t help but feel pulled into her orbit. Who needs sleep when you can have a late night hot chocolate with a gorgeous woman and maybe provide her a little comfort?

Flash forward a year and both women find themselves once again at the gala, and a tradition is forged. But is what’s sparking between them simply friendship? Or is there something more building in their connection? As far as Layla knows, Whitley is straight as can be. In fact, that’s what Whitley thought too. But she can’t deny the more than friendly feelings she begins to have for this stranger-turned-friend.

I absolutely ADORE both Layla and Whitley. Layla is quirky and a little brash and outspoken and just genuinely such a heart-on-her-sleeve, wonderful human being. Whitley also has this incredibly beautiful soul, but is completely opposite in other ways. She doesn’t speak her mind. She does what she’s told, she goes where she’s needed, and she never puts herself first. Not until Layla anyway.

I love the way Alyson chose to tell this story. The main story takes place over 3 years, but the majority happens in December each year. Between the second and third December, we get more glimpses into what transpires during the year leading up to that third Gala. We get to see Whitley coming to terms with how she is feeling toward Layla and what she wants. We get to see Layla coming even more into herself and sharing her music in new ways. And we get a really freaking hilarious and adorable scene with a trifle in a club that still has me smiling!

That third December though! Ugh! The chemistry between these two! And the way they navigate the newness of their relationship and care for one another. It was utter perfection. They are SO GOOD TOGETHER! I love that neither of them tries to change the other. That Whitley doesn’t try to convince Layla to stop busking or try to "take away" her money problems. Whitley may be rich and have all the finest things money can buy, but Layla’s life is no less extravagant and fills her with such joy. They simply accept each other as they are and celebrate each other and care for one another and it’s pure loveliness.

I also love the rest of Layla’s quartet, Whitley’s whole family, Layla’s parents, the kids in the choir - just so many wonderful characters who add richness and beauty to an already magnificent story. Also, I REALLY need to find/go to/create a steampunk Alice in Wonderland winter themed party of some sort now. Just saying. And the chapter titles were just as whimsical as the story itself!

If you are looking for a lighthearted, heartwarming, low angst holiday romance - look no further! This book is like a warm mug of hot chocolate on a cold winter night with the best company you could ask for.

I received an ARC from the author and this is my honest and voluntary review.


⚠️TW/CW: Sexual Content, infidelity (not by an MC), public rejection, minor accident/injury (SC - no graphic details), discussions of homelessness and poverty

[Quinn · Rating 5 out of 5]

A special thank you to NetGalley, BooksGoSocial and author Alyson Root for this ARC opportunity. I very happily leave my honest review.

Yayyyyyy an early holiday book! Well, earlyish I suppose since it is the end of November. I love winter time and Christmastime and would happily read holiday books year round but there is something special about a Holiday book during the holidays. I am definitely a fan of Alyson Root and was so excited to see her latest book on NetGalley! I honestly couldn’t snag it fast enough. Once Upon a Time in December is another winner by Alyson Root and will leave you thoroughly entertained and satiate any holiday sapphic romance cravings you may be experiencing.

I really enjoyed this book and found myself glued to each page and reading wayyyyy past my bedtime! I was expecting a cozy and deliciously sweet romance and that is what I got. Whitley is a type A, buttoned up professional that plans out every second of her life, her love life is no different. She has been with her boyfriend, Anthony, for 6 years and figures it will be forever. She is blindsided by him at her family’s annual Holiday gala…he rejects her and tells her he wants an open relationship because he’s met someone else but doesn’t necessarily want to let her go! The fucking gall of some people!. He even openly galavants with the”other woman”at her family party! Yikes! Damn…my heart went out to her. But everything happens for a reason after all! And this happened for a great reason as we found out. Enter Layla, a fun, funny, outgoing and totally loveable violinist that is a part of the gala entertainment. Our two leading ladies meet at the gala and kind of just click. I felt like their initial conversation felt like a warm blanket in a chilly room as Layla provides a sort of reprieve for Whitley. Layla is pure energy. She has a spark and love for music and for life that was so addicting. I was smiling wide at their genuine connection and was instantly smitten with these two.

Whitley and Layla were so different but complimented each other so well. What began as a sweet friendship blossoms into so much more. What ensues is a slow burn romance where Layla and Whitely truly form a foundation of friendship that I feel is necessary for a successful romance. Long distance calls full of vulnerability and a unique intimacy that I didn't realize could be accomplished this way. I love toaster over stories and this is a great one. Whitley has always believed herself to be totally straight but she can't deny the feelings that Layla has inspired within her.

So much about this book just worked so well for me. Alyson Root delivers on the story, pacing and characters in such a way that makes me an even bigger fan of her writing. Root delivers really engaging writing. I felt like the writing style was emotional, intentional and made me feel so much. I enjoyed the pacing of the book where our main characters took time to really get to know one another. This wasn't a story of insta love but I definitely saw the connection between Layla and Whitley right away. I was happy to follow their journey over 3 years. I believed in them and was rooting for them all along. In the end, there was no doubt in my mind that Layla and Whitley were meant to be together!

This is so much more than a sweet holiday romance. We get a unique and character driven opposites attract, toaster oven, slow burn sapphic love story. Both Layla and Whitley were such loveable and kind hearted women. They nestled their way into my heart and I have found myself thinking about them since I finished this book. I highly recommend this book for all lovers of a sweet and cozy sapphic love story with a holiday vibe and believable love story!

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

the dupont family always host a christmas party and every year its has a fantastic turnout. This year though everyone will remember the proposal that was turned down....

poor whitley she was on bended knee with a hopeful expression that soon crumbled when she was turned down and so the band carried on playing even though everyone was more interested in the main event....

lyla was the violinist and could see the drama enfolding so she played her heart out even though she couldnt believe what she had witnessed...

after the event was ending the rest of the band went out clubbing but lyla was tired and needed to rest and after a toilet break she found herself locked in.... panicking slightly but not to concerned she found a back exit and walked out whereupon she found whitley taking her anger out on the christmas baubles she had been thoroughly embarrassed again by her supposedly boyfriend when it turned out he had stayed after the humilating scene and had also stayed beyond his time with a girlfriend he had in line... where upon whitley had lost it all and had thrown the christmas baubles at him and then had him forcefully removed... again stopping the evening entertainment by becoming the entertainment

but now whitley didnt have any witnesses and was taking her anger out on the whole christmas debacle

and the start of a friendship formed with the agreement of a hot chocolate on a cold day in new york

they were from two different worlds lyla loved music and played her violin her way and her love of busking know no bounds and whitley was a dupont who came from money, but she worked for her fathers company and was one day going to take over there were a lot of expectations on her

ohhh this storyline has it all... and I loved how most of the book was centred around christmas over the years

my one laugh was thinking I hope all americans dont think all english people talk like that... I did laugh at some of lyla one liners and slightly missed marks but then again if everyone thinks dick van dyke portrayal of bert in mary poppins was right then no wonder lyla was written that way

will be looking out for more of this authors books as I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the christmasy feel good factor ohh and the spice was nice as well

[The Wild Weary Cow Reads Sapphic · Rating 5 out of 5]

💫Arc Review - release date Nov 3rd

THIS is genuinely such a beautiful book!
It gives all the cosy warm vibes needed for a wonderful Christmas story.

Makes you want to be wrapped up in their warmth for each other. You can literally feel the festive glow of the twinkling lights, Christmas tree smells, taste of hot chocolate and the
kindness we all seem to feel more this time for year.

Whitley DuPont has just had THE worst embarrassing moment of her life by the one person who is supposed to love her more than anyone else.

Layla Simmons has just witnessed it all play out, along with a room full of people at a Christmas party, whilst she and her friends provide the music with their quartet.

Layla is adorable, quirky and kind. When she finds Whitley releasing her pent-up anger and frustration in an alley out back of the very posh establishment, Layla can’t stand the idea of leaving her there so upset.

The two head off together to a diner for hot chocolate and much needed honest chat with a stranger for Whitley.

Whitley has a warmth and friendliness to her that draws Layla in.

To be fair I wouldn’t be able to say whom I liked more.Normally I could pick out one MC being more for me than the other

Not with these two!

After their first meeting they part ways for a whole year and when Christmas comes around again Layla is back, playing her beautiful music for another charity event held by the DuPont’s.

They still find each other funny, attractive and the spark is most definitely alive and kicking!

However, Poor Whitley must go away to London for a YEAR! To help set up a charity run by her family.

They finally swap numbers, and Whitley decides to take this time to work out her feelings for the quirky, beautiful, talented musician as she’s never been attracted to women before.

Layla thinks she has no chance as Whit is straight! But wants her friendship

We have the perfect side characters to help Whitley figure out her feelings with her Twin sister and brother .. Aubrey & William…They offer their own perfectly timed lines and moments in the story.

The chemistry is off the charts with these two!

I'm utterly in love with Layla and Whitley!!

[Merle · Rating 5 out of 5]

A warm and cozy romance perfect for winter!

This book was wonderful. Layla is a violin prodigy-turned-street-busker, more passionate about the soul of the music itself than about obtaining fancy prestige. Whitley is the heir to a fortune and the family company, but deeply wishes to just find her soul mate.

Layla is hired by Whit's mom to play at a large gala. And in the aftermath of a too public breakup, Layla approaches a furious Whitley with comfort, music, and hot chocolate. During the next Christmas, Whitley is able to repay Layla with some booze and hot chocolate of her own. And so begins a tradition of meeting up during Christmas to catch up and see each other.

This is a slow burn for all slow burns, and the novel takes place over years. But through it all, Whitley and Layla grow closer and more intimate.

Whitley and Layla's chemistry feels real and palpable. They're instantly attracted to each other (even if Whitley doesn't recognize it as attraction in the beginning!). Their banter is easy, and their dialogue is genuinely very funny. The moments where the London-born Layla lets her accent slip thicker, and uses obscure British slang to the confusion of Whitley is some of my favorite parts.

The writing itself is fantastic. Alyson Root's prose is vivid. I immediately began highlighting lines. Like this one about Whitley's dress during her failed attempt at proposing in the opening pages: "...the deep emerald velvet fabric pooling around her like a puddle of expensive regret."

The secondary characters were great, too. Whit's family was like a breath of fresh air. When she confessed to her brother and sister that she's attracted to Layla, they were immediately supportive and encouraging. Given that they were set up to be the richer-than-god, family-preservation types, this was such a nice take to see. They even crack a joke about owing Layla a toaster.

Whitley and Layla were adorable. I loved seeing their relationship bloom. And reading this book was a treat. This book was the perfect read for the upcoming winter weather.

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Once Upon a Time in December, Alyson Root has delivered a wonderful story about self discovery, sexual awakening and finding your person in the most expected places, all centred around Christmas. I absolutely fell in love with Whitley and Layla from the moment I met them, felt Whitley’s pain from the failed proposal and absolutely adored the way that Layla helped to pick her up and help her find her way.

The two women are so very different with Whitley growing up as an heiress in a very wealthy family, working in finance and managing fundraising galas on behalf of her family. Meanwhile, Layla grew up in a middle-class British Family where she fell into playing the Violin, eventually moving to the US, sharing a small apartment with three fellow musicians while busking and seeking out gigs to keep a roof overhead and the cupboards stocked with ramen noodles.

After witnessing the disastrous proposal while playing at the gala and then witnessing Whitley’s subsequent breakdown Layla helps her to pick herself up and a friendship is quickly formed. Little does Whitley realise at the time, just how much this new friendship is going to rock her world despite long gaps between seeing each other over the first couple of years with the two women initially only seeing each other at the annual Christmas gala.

One of the aspects of this story that I really loved were the two women’s families who were just delightful. I particularly loved Whitley’s twin brother and sister and the role they played in helping to bring these two wonderful women together.

Once Upon a Time in December was definitely a 5-star read for me and I would definitely recommend it to anyone looking for a heartwarming, low-angst, Christmas-centric story full of wonderfully accepting family. Do yourself a favour and check it out.

I am grateful to Alyson Root for providing me with an ARC copy of Once Upon a Time in December and am leaving this review voluntarily.

[⟡｡˚✴︎⋆Joy⋆✴︎˚｡⟡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️ rounded up!

This was such a cozy book to begin my holiday reading! It was such a fun, lighthearted read filled with all the festive warmth a hot cup of cocoa can offer! And boy, there are a whole LOT of those lovely hot chocolate-filled moments in this book!

After a shocking denial to her public proposal, Whitley DuPont’s yearly Christmas gala threatens to earn the title of her worst Christmas. Or does it? Her proposal gone wrong leads to one of the best, most romantic meet-cutes imaginable! Enter Layla Simmons, a quirky British violinist with a confident and utterly sweet demeanor. What begins as a comforting conversation over peppermint cocoa turns into long-distance calls, unexpected feelings, and a slow unravelling of everything Whitley thought she knew about love—and herself.

Both Layla and Whitley were such sweet and complementary characters! Layla is artistic, kind-hearted, and has a tendency to say whatever crosses her mind. Whereas Whitley is the heiress of an expensive family business, generous, and tends to be a bit of a people pleaser. I love that neither of them tries to change the other, even when their relationship becomes closer and more familiar. They’re both so accepting of each other and their VERY different lifestyles, and it’s such a joy to see them grow together.

I found the time jumps (the story takes place over 3 years) a touch difficult to follow sometimes—and I wished there was more story between those gaps—but Layla and Whitley meeting every Christmas for festive traditions and hot chocolate was so sweet! Also, Whitney’s family was so loving and supportive, I adored the silly banter between Whit’s siblings, and Layla’s family were absolutely hilarious!!

If you are looking for a cozy, low angst, sapphic holiday romance—this book is for you!

Thank you for NetGalley and BooksGoSocial for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review!

[Siddie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whitley DuPont is heiress to a New York financial empire of international proportions, but her real baby is the not-for-profit organisations she has started, mostly one for young musicians without the financial ability to pay for their studies. After a string of disastrous relationships to men only after her money and influence, Whitley meets Layla.
Layla is a gifted English violinist, busking on street corners, earning very little money, and working with her friends as a quartet. However, even though they play the classics, they do so in an unpretentious, lively and fun style, more interested in getting young people to love the music, than to shoe-horn them into the strict mores and rules of the classical music world.
This is a beautiful story about Whitley exploring her sexuality and coming out, and the confusing and conflicting feelings it gives her, and Layla’s laidback acceptance of the limitations of their situations.
This is fun, with almost a sense of childlike abandon in the relationship between the two women. Layla is very vivacious and outgoing, she speaks her mind, and she makes everything into a fun encounter. But Whitley also seems to get the same attitude with a sense of osmosis from Layla. And then later bring Layla’s equally outgoing parents into the mix with Whitley’s more refined but loving family, and the Christmas festivities really are madcap, but very loving.
In the afterword, the author asks readers to write a review, and specifically if the book kept us up way past our bedtime. It really did do that. I couldn’t stop reading. I fell asleep reading at 5am, having started reading at about 10pm the evening before. I so love this story. One of my favourite sapphic Christmas stories of all time.

[Mari Menne · Rating 5 out of 5]

In Once Upon a Time in December by Alyson Root, we meet Layla Simmons and Whitley Dupont. Layla, a whimsical violinist, witnesses a very public proposal denial and a following breakdown, and does what she can to make Whitley’s evening just a tiny bit better. Bonding over a cup of hot chocolate, not knowing it will go another full year before they meet again. Neither forgetting about the other during their time apart, always feeling that pull towards each other, no matter the distance☕️

I absolutely loved following both these characters on their respective journeys. Layla, as she works and develops her career as a violinist, both with and without help from Whitley. And Whitley, who is slowly realizing that she is not quite who she thought she was, and we get to tag along on her journey of self-discovery🎇

The side characters we meet, come in all shapes and sizes, and every single one of them adds something to the story, just a little bit of extra colour. From Layla’s parents and her musician friends to Whitley’s richer-than-god family (who is a breath of fresh air, not being the uptight snobs you’d often expect)☃️

This is such an amazing slow-burn romance (we’re talking years in the making), a story of self-discovery, family drama, and development, both professional and personal. A low angst romance that will have you giggling and kicking your feet, blushing (the spice is 🥵), as well as tear up🎄

I have read a few of Alyson’s novels, and they have yet to disappoint me. This one has sailed right into second place of my favourite novels by Alyson, with Sleigh Bells Ring still on first place (which will honestly be very difficult to beat)💁🏼‍♀️

[Cara Ramsey · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Whitley DuPont, heir to the DuPont fortune proposes to Anthony on Christmas Eve in front of hundreds of guests, she thought this was what he wanted. Instead, he turned her down and asked for an open relationship. Later, when she thought he’d left the party, she saw him kissing another woman in front of all her family’s guests. Whitley lost it, threw Christmas tree ornaments at him, and her father had him removed from the DuPont estate.

After the party was over, after she’d thought everyone else had gone, Whitley was still angry and smashing ornaments outside in an alley when the violinist from the exceptional quartet that had played for the event found Whitley giving vent to her rage.

This was how she met Layla. There was an instant connection but Whitley wouldn’t fully recognize what it was until Layla and her quartet played for the next DuPont Christmas party the following year. That’s how Whitley’s and Layla’s story begins.

This is a lovely wonderful Christmas Sapphic romance that, by the time Whitley realizes what she really wants, turns spicy very quickly from that point forward.

There’s no third act breakup here. Just two women falling more deeply in love with each chapter as they navigate the complexities of a rich heiress dating an unknown street musician.

And it’s a wonderfully written novel, perfect for late autumn and Christmas season. Alyson Root is a gifted writer and I recommend this book to anyone who wants a gentle Christmas romance that gets better with each passing page.

And kudos to Alyson for writing two characters that are confident in themselves and open to communicating when they feel it’s necessary.