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Light Up My Life
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26Beloved YA romance author Kasie West (P.S. I Like You) returns with a charming, hilarious modern-day Romeo & Juliet story about two rival families, one Christmas house decorating competition, and a blossoming forbidden relationship. Perfect for fans of Pumpkin Spice and Everything Nice and the forthcoming Mint To Be!
Sixteen-year-old Jasmine Costas is a sensitive, shy artist who has spent her entire life going out of her way to avoid the bane of her existence, Ryan Moreno. On top of being an arrogant jerk, Ryan hails from the Moreno family, the Costas's next-door neighboors and longtime enemies. But this is Jasmine's older brother's last year of high school, so she's determined to make it the Best Christmas Ever. When it's announced that their town is holding an actual contest for Best Decorated House, Jasmine and her family are ready to wage an all-out war to claim the trophy. Until Jasmine and Ryan are accidentally locked in a pantry together during a holiday party, and she's forced to wonder if there's actually more to Ryan Moreno than meets the eye. And unfortunately, their chemistry is undeniable.A secret relationship blooms that threatens to completely upend the lives of their families as the Christmas decoration schemes and rivalries get wilder and more chaotic.
Jasmine and Ryan want to be together. Can they convince their families to patch things up and embrace the holiday spirit? This charming story from the master of romantic-comedy, beloved author Kasie West, is a spirited exploration of the chaos of change, and the enduring magic of Christmas.
Sixteen-year-old Jasmine Costas is a sensitive, shy artist who has spent her entire life going out of her way to avoid the bane of her existence, Ryan Moreno. On top of being an arrogant jerk, Ryan hails from the Moreno family, the Costas's next-door neighboors and longtime enemies. But this is Jasmine's older brother's last year of high school, so she's determined to make it the Best Christmas Ever. When it's announced that their town is holding an actual contest for Best Decorated House, Jasmine and her family are ready to wage an all-out war to claim the trophy. Until Jasmine and Ryan are accidentally locked in a pantry together during a holiday party, and she's forced to wonder if there's actually more to Ryan Moreno than meets the eye. And unfortunately, their chemistry is undeniable.A secret relationship blooms that threatens to completely upend the lives of their families as the Christmas decoration schemes and rivalries get wilder and more chaotic.
Jasmine and Ryan want to be together. Can they convince their families to patch things up and embrace the holiday spirit? This charming story from the master of romantic-comedy, beloved author Kasie West, is a spirited exploration of the chaos of change, and the enduring magic of Christmas.
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication October 20, 2026
About the author
Kasie West
39 books19.8k followersI write YA and adult romance novels. I eat chocolate cinnamon bears. Sometimes I go crazy and do both at the same time. A few of my works are: SUNKISSED, PS I LIKE YOU, MOMENT OF TRUTH, WE MET LIKE THIS, and more. My agent is the talented and funny Michelle Wolfson.
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
Want to Read
June 25, 2026kasie west + ya christmas romance + forbidden love + did i mention kasie west??? = heck yeah
here's to hoping i can get an ARC 🤞🏼
here's to hoping i can get an ARC 🤞🏼
Want to Read
December 9, 2025We're getting THREE Kasie West books in 2026???!?! And one of them is a YA CHRISTMAS BOOK??!?!?
A Romeo and Juliet retelling about a Christmas decorating competition???
Well, hello, Most Anticipated Release of 2026!
A Romeo and Juliet retelling about a Christmas decorating competition???
Well, hello, Most Anticipated Release of 2026!
Want to Read
January 7, 2026ummm excuse me??? when did the anouncement for this book come out by the fantastic kasie west??? i will be reading this as soon as it’s published
Want to Read
February 17, 2026OH MY GOSH.
A CHRISTMAS BOOK BY KASIE WEST?!?!? 🤩
SOMEBODY CATCH ME IMA PASS OUT.
Wake me up when the cover is released. 🥱
THIS BETTER LIVE UP TO THE AMOUNT OF HYPE I'M GONNA GIVE IT.
See u soon fellow readers. 🫡
I AM SO FREAKING EXCITED BRO.
🎄
EDIT 1 (February 24th 2026)
I have been woken. 😶🫢😍
OMGGGGGGG.
I LOVE THE COVER SMMMMMM.
AND THE SPRAYED EDGES *asends* 🤸♀️
GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
I WILL B THERE OCTOBER 20TH I PROMISE.
EEEEEEEEE.
🎄
A CHRISTMAS BOOK BY KASIE WEST?!?!? 🤩
SOMEBODY CATCH ME IMA PASS OUT.
Wake me up when the cover is released. 🥱
THIS BETTER LIVE UP TO THE AMOUNT OF HYPE I'M GONNA GIVE IT.
See u soon fellow readers. 🫡
I AM SO FREAKING EXCITED BRO.
🎄
EDIT 1 (February 24th 2026)
I have been woken. 😶🫢😍
OMGGGGGGG.
I LOVE THE COVER SMMMMMM.
AND THE SPRAYED EDGES *asends* 🤸♀️
GAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.
I WILL B THERE OCTOBER 20TH I PROMISE.
EEEEEEEEE.
🎄
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
PRECIOUS!!! Kasie West is one of my go-to YA authors, and she has been for years. Even though I read this book in the heat of summer, I still got all the good cozy wintry vibes from this adorable little story.
Do I think Jasmine and Ryan's parents took a little Christmas-decoration rivalry a little too far? YES. Do I care? NOT REALLY! I feel like the stakes had to be so ridiculously high for it to be a true teeny-bopper YA romance, and it made everything seem so dramatic the way everything really does feel when you're that age. So yes, it was a little silly that these two were basically Romeo and Juliet over Christmas decorations (and a minor high school grudge), but it was also just fun.
I loved Jasmine's character because this really felt like her journey as an individual, even as there was also a romantic subplot. She was grappling with her brother leaving for college and seeing things differently from her parents and her friend. And, through it all, she was still just a sweet person, helping her neighbors and looking on the bright side of things, even when she felt like she couldn't be her most honest self with her family. And Ryan was a sweetheart who clearly just wanted to be able to love her loudly. I'm glad that finally happened for them both.
You can set your watch by Kasie West. She's consistent and clever, sprinkling whimsy and magic in all her YA books -- Light Up My Life is no exception.
-------------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Scholastic for the ARC!
Do I think Jasmine and Ryan's parents took a little Christmas-decoration rivalry a little too far? YES. Do I care? NOT REALLY! I feel like the stakes had to be so ridiculously high for it to be a true teeny-bopper YA romance, and it made everything seem so dramatic the way everything really does feel when you're that age. So yes, it was a little silly that these two were basically Romeo and Juliet over Christmas decorations (and a minor high school grudge), but it was also just fun.
I loved Jasmine's character because this really felt like her journey as an individual, even as there was also a romantic subplot. She was grappling with her brother leaving for college and seeing things differently from her parents and her friend. And, through it all, she was still just a sweet person, helping her neighbors and looking on the bright side of things, even when she felt like she couldn't be her most honest self with her family. And Ryan was a sweetheart who clearly just wanted to be able to love her loudly. I'm glad that finally happened for them both.
You can set your watch by Kasie West. She's consistent and clever, sprinkling whimsy and magic in all her YA books -- Light Up My Life is no exception.
-------------------
Thank you to Netgalley and Scholastic for the ARC!
August 12, 2026
3.5 Stars.
The vibes:
- neighbors
- Family rivals
- Forbidden friendship
- Super festive
- Christmas setting
- Closed door (kisses only)
My thoughts:
I picked this up because I love Kasie West and I love Christmas. I can swing it with a YA novel every now and then and really enjoy it. I also like to check in every now and then on what is going on in YA romances because I’m a parent.
For starters this book oozed all things Christmas and was so festive which I really appreciated. I loved all of the Christmas activities and the holiday ambience. Almost every scene involved festivities, decorations, and overall Christmas vibes. It was never forgotten about which I love in a Christmas book. This is the main thing I loved about the book and the biggest reason why I would recommend this book.
The main characters were a good reflection of their age I think. Ryan and Jasmine definitely felt their age (16 and 17 years old). Ryan was especially my favorite. He was so sweet and seemed to really like Jasmine enough that he was willing to be honest and up front from the get go.
The biggest drawback for me in this book was the side characters and toxic family dynamics. Some of the side characters were really difficult to enjoy. I did not like Fiona (I’m sorry.) I also really didn’t like mom #1. She was unhinged, screaming at the neighbors, and holding a grudge from highschool. This was just wild to me.
The family dynamics with both teens’ respective parents was a mess. Both of Jasmine‘s moms were the classic definition of carrying out the misunderstanding trope when it came to Ryan’s parents and possibly vice versa. I was kind of surprised how the parents of each main character are so volatile towards each other. They are literally screaming at each other in anger about their disputes, and I was just clutching my pearls picturing that. I did not like the representation of parenting in general. There was a lot of lying going on and the kids keeping secrets from the parents which makes sense in a YA novel but I found myself on the kids side because the parents were insane. It gave a message to readers that parents are just out of depth, petty, out of control, and frankly stupid. (And yes, I am a parent and I’m old so of course this bothered me. 🙈)
Overall, I think this book was pretty age-appropriate and mostly a cute festive novel for the Christmas season. I think it’ll be much more enjoyable for a teen audience and less enjoyable for adults who dabble in YA occasionally.
Note / spice content: closed door (kisses only); no language. FMC has two moms that are heavily involved in the plot throughout the book. Mentioning this because the book is YA and this wasn’t included in the blurb. (This did not affect the rating, but mentioning for parents / those interested.)
Release date: October 20, 2026
Thank you so much to Kasie West, Scholastic Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy. I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.
The vibes:
- neighbors
- Family rivals
- Forbidden friendship
- Super festive
- Christmas setting
- Closed door (kisses only)
My thoughts:
I picked this up because I love Kasie West and I love Christmas. I can swing it with a YA novel every now and then and really enjoy it. I also like to check in every now and then on what is going on in YA romances because I’m a parent.
For starters this book oozed all things Christmas and was so festive which I really appreciated. I loved all of the Christmas activities and the holiday ambience. Almost every scene involved festivities, decorations, and overall Christmas vibes. It was never forgotten about which I love in a Christmas book. This is the main thing I loved about the book and the biggest reason why I would recommend this book.
The main characters were a good reflection of their age I think. Ryan and Jasmine definitely felt their age (16 and 17 years old). Ryan was especially my favorite. He was so sweet and seemed to really like Jasmine enough that he was willing to be honest and up front from the get go.
The biggest drawback for me in this book was the side characters and toxic family dynamics. Some of the side characters were really difficult to enjoy. I did not like Fiona (I’m sorry.) I also really didn’t like mom #1. She was unhinged, screaming at the neighbors, and holding a grudge from highschool. This was just wild to me.
The family dynamics with both teens’ respective parents was a mess. Both of Jasmine‘s moms were the classic definition of carrying out the misunderstanding trope when it came to Ryan’s parents and possibly vice versa. I was kind of surprised how the parents of each main character are so volatile towards each other. They are literally screaming at each other in anger about their disputes, and I was just clutching my pearls picturing that. I did not like the representation of parenting in general. There was a lot of lying going on and the kids keeping secrets from the parents which makes sense in a YA novel but I found myself on the kids side because the parents were insane. It gave a message to readers that parents are just out of depth, petty, out of control, and frankly stupid. (And yes, I am a parent and I’m old so of course this bothered me. 🙈)
Overall, I think this book was pretty age-appropriate and mostly a cute festive novel for the Christmas season. I think it’ll be much more enjoyable for a teen audience and less enjoyable for adults who dabble in YA occasionally.
Note / spice content: closed door (kisses only); no language. FMC has two moms that are heavily involved in the plot throughout the book. Mentioning this because the book is YA and this wasn’t included in the blurb. (This did not affect the rating, but mentioning for parents / those interested.)
Release date: October 20, 2026
Thank you so much to Kasie West, Scholastic Press, and NetGalley for the gifted copy. I received this eARC from the author/publisher, but this honest review is voluntary.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Oh wow, look at those edges! I can't attest them myself because I only got the ebook, but they look so cute! And very in theme with the book too. I'm probably getting a physical version once it's out...
But onto the review of what I can really attest. This is the kind of book you want for your holidays. And the kind of book you want from Kasie West (is it too late for the disclaimer that I've been a fan for ten years?).
No, it's not perfect, unforgettable, a work of art. It's not a solid 4, to be honest, but deserving of a round-up. You get your regular contemporary YA romance between the son and a daughter of neighbors who haven't gotten along since forever in a very small town. The magic of it is that this town is the place to go for Christmas decoration, to a point the streets are impossible when the night falls, so crowded they get from tourists checking out all the houses competing for best decoration of the year.
But one day, Jasmine finally opens her mind to the possibility that Ryan might be a good person, but he's also the son of the neighbors her mothers hate, and all the more after their precious decoration piece handmade by Jasmine's grandmother magically disappeared. It's not a coincidence that their names have the same initials for Romeo and Juliet, a lot of the characters seem to, for example Jasmine's older brother is Marcus, like Mercutio. But it's not a reread of Romeo and Juliet, don't worry. It's more like a homage that also extends to some other tales like Cinderella and The Grinch.
I loved the atmosphere in it. It's like we're in Gilmore Girls' Stars Hollow for a Christmas competition. It's lovely and not too much so it doesn't get in the way of the plot. And I really liked the pacing. The 'enemies' part is set very clearly and the 'to lovers' transition is done smoothly. There was no sudden passion but there was no inorganic slowness just to hold back the plot (I don't usually complain about it, but it's always obvious when the writer is doing it on purpose). West manages to control and actually large cast of characters and knit this story seamlessly. With great swoonworthy moments, of course.
What I always appreciate about West's book is also there: great book boyfriends and great family moments. I wonder if she makes it a point in every book she starts.
This story doesn't go really far though. It's a cozy read for your YA romance needs, but done masterfully. Don't miss it!
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
But onto the review of what I can really attest. This is the kind of book you want for your holidays. And the kind of book you want from Kasie West (is it too late for the disclaimer that I've been a fan for ten years?).
No, it's not perfect, unforgettable, a work of art. It's not a solid 4, to be honest, but deserving of a round-up. You get your regular contemporary YA romance between the son and a daughter of neighbors who haven't gotten along since forever in a very small town. The magic of it is that this town is the place to go for Christmas decoration, to a point the streets are impossible when the night falls, so crowded they get from tourists checking out all the houses competing for best decoration of the year.
But one day, Jasmine finally opens her mind to the possibility that Ryan might be a good person, but he's also the son of the neighbors her mothers hate, and all the more after their precious decoration piece handmade by Jasmine's grandmother magically disappeared. It's not a coincidence that their names have the same initials for Romeo and Juliet, a lot of the characters seem to, for example Jasmine's older brother is Marcus, like Mercutio. But it's not a reread of Romeo and Juliet, don't worry. It's more like a homage that also extends to some other tales like Cinderella and The Grinch.
I loved the atmosphere in it. It's like we're in Gilmore Girls' Stars Hollow for a Christmas competition. It's lovely and not too much so it doesn't get in the way of the plot. And I really liked the pacing. The 'enemies' part is set very clearly and the 'to lovers' transition is done smoothly. There was no sudden passion but there was no inorganic slowness just to hold back the plot (I don't usually complain about it, but it's always obvious when the writer is doing it on purpose). West manages to control and actually large cast of characters and knit this story seamlessly. With great swoonworthy moments, of course.
What I always appreciate about West's book is also there: great book boyfriends and great family moments. I wonder if she makes it a point in every book she starts.
This story doesn't go really far though. It's a cozy read for your YA romance needs, but done masterfully. Don't miss it!
Honest review based on an ARC provided by Netgalley. Many thanks to the publisher for this opportunity.
Review of advance copy received from Edelweiss+
E ARC Provided by Edelweiss Plus
Jasmine Costas loves her quaint little town of Cherry Ridge, Colorado, which is trying hard to retain the influx of Christmas tourists who come for the elaborate light and decoration displays that most of the townspeople put up for the holidays. Her family's decorations are homemade and modest, but she loves that vibe. Across the street, in the most expensive house on the block, Ryan Moreno's family hires people to come and install their professional looking decorations. When Mrs. O'Leary announces that this year there will a competition, Jasmine thinks that the Morenos are cheating, which furthers the two family's hatred of each other. Jasmine's brothers and parents are convinced that the Morenos stole one of their decorations the previous year, and when even more lights are added, Jasmine's mother complains that they are shining in their windows and argues with Ryan's father. After this, she institutes a "no contact" policy with the competing family. The only problem? Jasmine has been talking to Ryan, introducing him to stirring cocoa with a candy cane and getting flustered when he pays attention to her. With the competition heating up, and the families increasingly at odds, will these two lovers of all things Christmas be able to get together, or will their families keep them apart?
My students will absolutely adore this. Not only is West's work really popular with my readers, but I can never have enough Christmas themed books. I'm definitely buying a copy; Follett's Titlewave has a prebound copy.
We're seeing more and more young adult holiday romance books that read like Hallmark movies: Miller's Meet Me On Mistletoe Lane, McKearin's Let It Wag: A Holiday Novel, Andreen's So, This is Christmas, Loggia's All I Want for Christmas and Cicatelli-Kuc's Mint to Be. This is great, because tweens and teens love these happy, swoony romances that are decked out in Christmas sweaters and greenery. Since I am not a fan of Christmas or of the star crossed lovers trope, this wasn't my personal favorite. I would have loved it when I was twelve.
Jasmine Costas loves her quaint little town of Cherry Ridge, Colorado, which is trying hard to retain the influx of Christmas tourists who come for the elaborate light and decoration displays that most of the townspeople put up for the holidays. Her family's decorations are homemade and modest, but she loves that vibe. Across the street, in the most expensive house on the block, Ryan Moreno's family hires people to come and install their professional looking decorations. When Mrs. O'Leary announces that this year there will a competition, Jasmine thinks that the Morenos are cheating, which furthers the two family's hatred of each other. Jasmine's brothers and parents are convinced that the Morenos stole one of their decorations the previous year, and when even more lights are added, Jasmine's mother complains that they are shining in their windows and argues with Ryan's father. After this, she institutes a "no contact" policy with the competing family. The only problem? Jasmine has been talking to Ryan, introducing him to stirring cocoa with a candy cane and getting flustered when he pays attention to her. With the competition heating up, and the families increasingly at odds, will these two lovers of all things Christmas be able to get together, or will their families keep them apart?
My students will absolutely adore this. Not only is West's work really popular with my readers, but I can never have enough Christmas themed books. I'm definitely buying a copy; Follett's Titlewave has a prebound copy.
We're seeing more and more young adult holiday romance books that read like Hallmark movies: Miller's Meet Me On Mistletoe Lane, McKearin's Let It Wag: A Holiday Novel, Andreen's So, This is Christmas, Loggia's All I Want for Christmas and Cicatelli-Kuc's Mint to Be. This is great, because tweens and teens love these happy, swoony romances that are decked out in Christmas sweaters and greenery. Since I am not a fan of Christmas or of the star crossed lovers trope, this wasn't my personal favorite. I would have loved it when I was twelve.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Jasmine and Ryan’s families have been in a bitter feud their whole lives. In fact, it all started back when their parents were in high school, and this holiday season is no different. Both families try to outdo the other with their holiday decor in order to win the new “Best Decoration” contest. Add to that the “usual” screaming at each other over bordering shrubs and motion detected lighting, and the feuding seems to be, if anything, a bit more intense this year. As Jasmine and Ryan begin talking after being accidentally locked into a pantry together, they realize their worst enemy might actually be their strongest attraction. Will they be able to fight their mutual attraction, or will they work together to try and overcome years of family hostility?
I know this is a modern day Romeo and Juliet story, so you need the feuding families as part of the plot line, but this feud just seems a bit over the top. While the parents seem to be able to act as responsible adults when it comes to everything else, they still act as if they are in high school when it comes to their neighborly relations and that spills over into their family life. I just wanted to tell them to grow up, and if they couldn’t say something nice to each other, they shouldn’t be talking at all. Part of being a parent is teaching your children how to handle difficult situations and working with people you may not necessarily like. Both sets of parents were setting poor examples. I did enjoy Jasmine and Ryan’s relationship and especially appreciated the banter and slow burn as they fought their feelings for each other. I wasn’t too fond of either of the FMC and MMC’s friends. I thought the friends were very self serving and not very supportive in their friendships, but that did add to the various conflicts in the story. I especially appreciated the descriptions of Jasmine’s relationships with her brothers and the banter back and forth between them, and I liked the side plot of ferreting out the holiday scrooge.
4 Stars Ages 13+ LGBTQ characters
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
I know this is a modern day Romeo and Juliet story, so you need the feuding families as part of the plot line, but this feud just seems a bit over the top. While the parents seem to be able to act as responsible adults when it comes to everything else, they still act as if they are in high school when it comes to their neighborly relations and that spills over into their family life. I just wanted to tell them to grow up, and if they couldn’t say something nice to each other, they shouldn’t be talking at all. Part of being a parent is teaching your children how to handle difficult situations and working with people you may not necessarily like. Both sets of parents were setting poor examples. I did enjoy Jasmine and Ryan’s relationship and especially appreciated the banter and slow burn as they fought their feelings for each other. I wasn’t too fond of either of the FMC and MMC’s friends. I thought the friends were very self serving and not very supportive in their friendships, but that did add to the various conflicts in the story. I especially appreciated the descriptions of Jasmine’s relationships with her brothers and the banter back and forth between them, and I liked the side plot of ferreting out the holiday scrooge.
4 Stars Ages 13+ LGBTQ characters
Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, and the author for providing me with an ARC. As always, all thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.
June 15, 2026
Kasie West, I will always love your books
We have Jasmine and Ryan, two neighbors from rival families who are basically living in a Hallmark movie on steroids. Their families are feuding, there's a Christmas decorating competition, secret meetings, sneaking around, and enough chemistry to keep me kicking my feet the entire book.
Ryan Moreno, you will always be famous to me. This man was climbing ladders, buying dresses, rebuilding snow globes, and saying things that had me staring at my ceiling. The banter was bantering, the enemies to lovers absolutely enemied, and watching these two awkwardly fall for each other was so ridiculously adorable.
And don't even get me started on the window scenes. It was giving You Belong With Me music video, it was giving peak puppy love, it was giving me emotional damage. I LOVED IT
I also loved Jasmine's family. Her moms were hilarious, Marcus was the sweetest brother ever, little Harris stole every scene he was in and the family dynamic felt so warm and refreshing. Everyone felt like real people which made me even more invested in all the Christmas chaos that was going on
The Christmas atmosphere was immaculate. Mint hot chocolate. Snow. Christmas lights. Decorating competitions. Cozy neighborhood drama. If Christmas could be turned into a book, it would be this.
This book just made me happy! <3 Sweet, funny, cozy, and full of Christmas magic. Ryan and Jasmine completely stole my heart.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦-𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
We have Jasmine and Ryan, two neighbors from rival families who are basically living in a Hallmark movie on steroids. Their families are feuding, there's a Christmas decorating competition, secret meetings, sneaking around, and enough chemistry to keep me kicking my feet the entire book.
Ryan Moreno, you will always be famous to me. This man was climbing ladders, buying dresses, rebuilding snow globes, and saying things that had me staring at my ceiling. The banter was bantering, the enemies to lovers absolutely enemied, and watching these two awkwardly fall for each other was so ridiculously adorable.
And don't even get me started on the window scenes. It was giving You Belong With Me music video, it was giving peak puppy love, it was giving me emotional damage. I LOVED IT
I also loved Jasmine's family. Her moms were hilarious, Marcus was the sweetest brother ever, little Harris stole every scene he was in and the family dynamic felt so warm and refreshing. Everyone felt like real people which made me even more invested in all the Christmas chaos that was going on
The Christmas atmosphere was immaculate. Mint hot chocolate. Snow. Christmas lights. Decorating competitions. Cozy neighborhood drama. If Christmas could be turned into a book, it would be this.
This book just made me happy! <3 Sweet, funny, cozy, and full of Christmas magic. Ryan and Jasmine completely stole my heart.
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘎𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘚𝘤𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘢𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘤 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦-𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸!
July 15, 2026
𝘚𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘕𝘦𝘵𝘨𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘦𝘺, 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘱𝘶𝘣𝘭𝘪𝘴𝘩𝘦𝘳, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘢𝘶𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘳 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘭𝘭𝘰𝘸𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘮𝘦 𝘢𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘢𝘯 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸. 𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘦𝘹𝘱𝘳𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘦𝘥 𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
~𝓛𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓤𝓹 𝓜𝔂 𝓛𝓲𝓯𝓮 𝓜𝓲𝓷𝓲 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀~
⚠️Light Potential Spoilers Ahead (Nothing Serious)⚠️
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
♫ Song Pick: “We Need a Little Christmas” by Johnny Mathis.
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
➤ My Thoughts: My very first ARC! I loved the romance, the banter, and the Hallmark-esque vibe (PERFECT for Christmas in July). The fact that it was based on 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘑𝘶𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘵 was very fun, and I couldnt help but think “AHA!” when I read parts that were so similar to the play. I just wish Jasmine hadn't had two moms. I'm glad Kasie West didn't go into great detail with it and never had them act romantic, but it still felt wrong in a Kasie West novel. Also, the window scenes between Jasmine + Ryan were adorable, the author is totally a Swifie because it screams "You Belong With Me” music video. Merry Christmas in July!
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
~𝓐 𝓕𝓮𝔀 𝓒𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓝𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼~
➤ What You Won’t Find: Strong profanity, spice, or violence.
➤ What to Expect: A use of the p-word, Jasmine has two moms (which isn’t taken into great detail), a few mildly descriptive kisses and some hugging/handholding. A mention of a neighbor being Catholic and her husband being Jewish.
➤ Trigger Warnings: A character’s little brother gets lost briefly, but is found soon after just fine.
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
★ Final Rating: 3/5 stars!
~𝓛𝓲𝓰𝓱𝓽 𝓤𝓹 𝓜𝔂 𝓛𝓲𝓯𝓮 𝓜𝓲𝓷𝓲 𝓡𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀~
⚠️Light Potential Spoilers Ahead (Nothing Serious)⚠️
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
♫ Song Pick: “We Need a Little Christmas” by Johnny Mathis.
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
➤ My Thoughts: My very first ARC! I loved the romance, the banter, and the Hallmark-esque vibe (PERFECT for Christmas in July). The fact that it was based on 𝘙𝘰𝘮𝘦𝘰 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘑𝘶𝘭𝘪𝘦𝘵 was very fun, and I couldnt help but think “AHA!” when I read parts that were so similar to the play. I just wish Jasmine hadn't had two moms. I'm glad Kasie West didn't go into great detail with it and never had them act romantic, but it still felt wrong in a Kasie West novel. Also, the window scenes between Jasmine + Ryan were adorable, the author is totally a Swifie because it screams "You Belong With Me” music video. Merry Christmas in July!
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
~𝓐 𝓕𝓮𝔀 𝓒𝓸𝓷𝓽𝓮𝓷𝓽 𝓝𝓸𝓽𝓮𝓼~
➤ What You Won’t Find: Strong profanity, spice, or violence.
➤ What to Expect: A use of the p-word, Jasmine has two moms (which isn’t taken into great detail), a few mildly descriptive kisses and some hugging/handholding. A mention of a neighbor being Catholic and her husband being Jewish.
➤ Trigger Warnings: A character’s little brother gets lost briefly, but is found soon after just fine.
✧─── ･ ｡ﾟ★: *.✦ .* :★. ───✧
★ Final Rating: 3/5 stars!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
[Arc review— thank you to the team at Netgalley and the team at Scholastic!]
Christmas in August! I’ve been reading Kasie West for years, and because of that even as my taste in books shift, she is an author I always come back to. While I can’t say that this was my favorite from her, I can say it was a fun read and will definitely be making it into a christmas books post on my booksta this year!
I would have loved a slower pacing for the romance, and maybe some callbacks to older moments of tension, because I do think the romance could have been fleshed out more. But the town setting, the families, and the lights made up for a lot. I will say, forbidden romance is very hard to get right imo, so that might have contributed to my feelings about the main couple. But, overall it was just a fun and cute read!
Updated Kasie West book ranking:
1. Places We’ve Never Been
2. Split Second
3. The Fill-In Boyfriend
4. Borrow My Heart
5. Better Than Revenge
6. Pivot Point
7. Fame, Fate, and the first kiss
8. Maybe This Time
9. By Your Side
10. P.S I Like You
11. Lonely Hearts Day
12. Room To Breathe
13. Moment of Truth
14. Light Up My Life 🎄
15. Sunkissed
16. The Distance Between Us
17. Listen to Your Heart
18. On the fence
19. Love, Life, and the List
Christmas in August! I’ve been reading Kasie West for years, and because of that even as my taste in books shift, she is an author I always come back to. While I can’t say that this was my favorite from her, I can say it was a fun read and will definitely be making it into a christmas books post on my booksta this year!
I would have loved a slower pacing for the romance, and maybe some callbacks to older moments of tension, because I do think the romance could have been fleshed out more. But the town setting, the families, and the lights made up for a lot. I will say, forbidden romance is very hard to get right imo, so that might have contributed to my feelings about the main couple. But, overall it was just a fun and cute read!
Updated Kasie West book ranking:
1. Places We’ve Never Been
2. Split Second
3. The Fill-In Boyfriend
4. Borrow My Heart
5. Better Than Revenge
6. Pivot Point
7. Fame, Fate, and the first kiss
8. Maybe This Time
9. By Your Side
10. P.S I Like You
11. Lonely Hearts Day
12. Room To Breathe
13. Moment of Truth
14. Light Up My Life 🎄
15. Sunkissed
16. The Distance Between Us
17. Listen to Your Heart
18. On the fence
19. Love, Life, and the List
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Festive 3 star ⭐️ read!
I really enjoy reading a YA that is a true YA. This is my first Kasie West book and it lives up to everything I'd expect a YA to be. It's sweet, it's got a bit of HS and family drama, and captures those fuzzy feelings of falling for someone for the first time.
Positives:
*Oh the cozy, winter/holiday vibes. I don't care that it's currently the hot and humid summer. This book makes me look forward to snow, holiday lights, and some hot chocolate. The setting itself is almost like another character. Really beautifully done.
*Loved the diverse family representation and the brothers. The Costas were a fun family.
*The "Who's the Grinch" subplot was a lot of fun and kept me engaged throughout.
Challenges:
*I get that it's supposed to be a Romeo & Juliet retelling, but a lot of the family/neighbor drama felt overly contrived.
*I struggled to find the chemistry between Jasmine (FMC) & Ryan (MMC) at times. I know it's YA, but especially in the beginning I was looking for just a bit...more?
*The pacing at times felt a little...off? Too fast in some places, but also too slow, especially around the 25% mark.
Overall, cute and quick holiday read!
Thank you to Scholastic Press and to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange of my honest review.
I really enjoy reading a YA that is a true YA. This is my first Kasie West book and it lives up to everything I'd expect a YA to be. It's sweet, it's got a bit of HS and family drama, and captures those fuzzy feelings of falling for someone for the first time.
Positives:
*Oh the cozy, winter/holiday vibes. I don't care that it's currently the hot and humid summer. This book makes me look forward to snow, holiday lights, and some hot chocolate. The setting itself is almost like another character. Really beautifully done.
*Loved the diverse family representation and the brothers. The Costas were a fun family.
*The "Who's the Grinch" subplot was a lot of fun and kept me engaged throughout.
Challenges:
*I get that it's supposed to be a Romeo & Juliet retelling, but a lot of the family/neighbor drama felt overly contrived.
*I struggled to find the chemistry between Jasmine (FMC) & Ryan (MMC) at times. I know it's YA, but especially in the beginning I was looking for just a bit...more?
*The pacing at times felt a little...off? Too fast in some places, but also too slow, especially around the 25% mark.
Overall, cute and quick holiday read!
Thank you to Scholastic Press and to NetGalley for an eARC in exchange of my honest review.
July 1, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Scholastic for the ARC.
16-year-old Jasmine lives with her moms and two brothers in a small town in Colorado where every year the town goes all out in decorating for Christmas, and Jasmine’s family is no exception. This year there will be a competition and the main competition is the wealthy Moreno family next door. The two families cannot stand one another and Jasmine and the Moreno teenager, Ryan have grown up not speaking to each other. This changes when the two get locked in a pantry at a town party and are forced to talk to each other. Sparks fly as the two realize they could possibly like each other, but know the families would be upset if they are friends and maybe something more.
Holiday romance books are popular with my readers, but most aren’t that great; however this one is. I love the small town setting, the fun holiday events, and the secret Romeo and Juliet romance. This one will put everyone who reads it in the holiday spirit because it’s a fun, cozy romance.
I’m buying multiple copies and I can’t wait to book talk this when it comes out in October. With the adorable cover and great story, this one’s a winner!
16-year-old Jasmine lives with her moms and two brothers in a small town in Colorado where every year the town goes all out in decorating for Christmas, and Jasmine’s family is no exception. This year there will be a competition and the main competition is the wealthy Moreno family next door. The two families cannot stand one another and Jasmine and the Moreno teenager, Ryan have grown up not speaking to each other. This changes when the two get locked in a pantry at a town party and are forced to talk to each other. Sparks fly as the two realize they could possibly like each other, but know the families would be upset if they are friends and maybe something more.
Holiday romance books are popular with my readers, but most aren’t that great; however this one is. I love the small town setting, the fun holiday events, and the secret Romeo and Juliet romance. This one will put everyone who reads it in the holiday spirit because it’s a fun, cozy romance.
I’m buying multiple copies and I can’t wait to book talk this when it comes out in October. With the adorable cover and great story, this one’s a winner!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Light Up My Life was a cute Christmas time Romeo and Juliet, this time with Ryan and Jasmine. Their parents, neighbors of each other, have a long standing feud and Christmas decorating self-proclaimed competition. The two teenagers are at the whim of their parents. When they finally notice each other, and begin to think each other isn't half bad, it becomes clear they can't let the parents know they are interested in each other until they figure out what it means to each other. While their families are creating one kind of stress, Ryan and Jasmine's friends are creating a different kind of stress. There's also a looming danger in the background that someone wants to stop the town Christmas celebrations, and Jasmine is trying to do all she can to find out who the grinch is and get them on board with her favorite holiday. All in all this is a great Christmas story with all the cold-weather celebratory vibes. Kasie West is great at banter and bringing in all the romantic feel-good feelings that keep you rooting for the couple from the first page to the last page. Closed-door romance as with all of her YA. I remain forever a Kasie West stan.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5/5 stars
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought that this book was cute. It was definitely very YA, which is to be expected, but honestly the two main characters were a lot more mature than the adults were in this book. I liked Ryan and Jasmine's relationship. Was it the best couple ever? No, but they had a cute and wholesome love. Ryan's apology at the end was so good, too. I liked the little plotline about finding the 'secret scrooge' because that was probably the most compelling thing that kept me interested because I wanted to see if I could figure it out, and I actually didn't guess correctly. I think that more development would have made this book stronger both when it came to some plotlines as well as with the characters and relationships. Still a pretty solid read though overall.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for giving me a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
I thought that this book was cute. It was definitely very YA, which is to be expected, but honestly the two main characters were a lot more mature than the adults were in this book. I liked Ryan and Jasmine's relationship. Was it the best couple ever? No, but they had a cute and wholesome love. Ryan's apology at the end was so good, too. I liked the little plotline about finding the 'secret scrooge' because that was probably the most compelling thing that kept me interested because I wanted to see if I could figure it out, and I actually didn't guess correctly. I think that more development would have made this book stronger both when it came to some plotlines as well as with the characters and relationships. Still a pretty solid read though overall.
September 12, 2026
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for the eARC!
Only Kasie West could make me fall in love with a Christmas book. 💖
I think what I loved about this one in particular is that it’s so very quintessential teen. Kasie is so good at depicting a scenario that actually makes sense for a teen girl to be in. It’s not about her organizing events or acting like an adult. This is a story about a girl loving a boy and being afraid of her family not liking him because of who his parents are.
Jasmine and Ryan are so delightfully adorable in their banter and their tension. I liked that they were honest and open with each other as much as they could be, through everything. Kasie West is SO thoughtful, always, about her third act conflicts. It’s why I keep coming back to her constantly. She’s become my all-time favorite author, one that never lets me down.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a “forbidden” teen romance story with feuding families and a fun little Christmas story.
Only Kasie West could make me fall in love with a Christmas book. 💖
I think what I loved about this one in particular is that it’s so very quintessential teen. Kasie is so good at depicting a scenario that actually makes sense for a teen girl to be in. It’s not about her organizing events or acting like an adult. This is a story about a girl loving a boy and being afraid of her family not liking him because of who his parents are.
Jasmine and Ryan are so delightfully adorable in their banter and their tension. I liked that they were honest and open with each other as much as they could be, through everything. Kasie West is SO thoughtful, always, about her third act conflicts. It’s why I keep coming back to her constantly. She’s become my all-time favorite author, one that never lets me down.
I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a “forbidden” teen romance story with feuding families and a fun little Christmas story.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley and Scholastic for the chance to read Light Up My Life! The opinions below are my own and given freely.
Light Up My Life is a YA Christmas novel About next door neighboring families competing in a house Christmas decoration competition. A teenage girl, Jasmine, and her cute neighbor, Ryan, have to decide if they are they enemies too or do they leave the competing to their families instead.
I loved Jasmine’s love for all things Christmas! Her need to make it the best Christmas ever before her brother goes off to college felt genuine and sweet.
The flirting and unexpected run-ins with Ryan were so cute. A hot chocolate cart parked outside with a flirty Elf named Buddy, adorable window notes to each other, and an unexpected scavenger hunt made this story endearing and fun to read.
I would recommend this to upper middle and high school readers for a fun holiday romance!
Light Up My Life is a YA Christmas novel About next door neighboring families competing in a house Christmas decoration competition. A teenage girl, Jasmine, and her cute neighbor, Ryan, have to decide if they are they enemies too or do they leave the competing to their families instead.
I loved Jasmine’s love for all things Christmas! Her need to make it the best Christmas ever before her brother goes off to college felt genuine and sweet.
The flirting and unexpected run-ins with Ryan were so cute. A hot chocolate cart parked outside with a flirty Elf named Buddy, adorable window notes to each other, and an unexpected scavenger hunt made this story endearing and fun to read.
I would recommend this to upper middle and high school readers for a fun holiday romance!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
3.5 stars rounded up to 4
Thank you so much to Scholastic Press and Netgalley for giving me an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!!
I love Kasie West, and I swear that I would read anything that she writes! Although I am reading and reviewing this in July, it is making me crave snowflakes, hot chocolate, and Christmas lights. This was such a cute, Christmas romance novel that is perfect for the holidays. It was nothing ground breaking, but I found myself smiling at the adorableness of the characters. This is a perfect cozy read that I would recommend for anyone to pick up during the holidays!
Thank you so much to Scholastic Press and Netgalley for giving me an advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review!!
I love Kasie West, and I swear that I would read anything that she writes! Although I am reading and reviewing this in July, it is making me crave snowflakes, hot chocolate, and Christmas lights. This was such a cute, Christmas romance novel that is perfect for the holidays. It was nothing ground breaking, but I found myself smiling at the adorableness of the characters. This is a perfect cozy read that I would recommend for anyone to pick up during the holidays!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is an ARC review. I want to thank Kasie West and Scholastic | Scholastic Press for allowing me the chance to read this book ahead of release day!
Ryan & Jasmine
This is a good holiday closed-door romance book! It was sweet and brought out all the holiday spirit in me! While I am typically an open door girlie this book had the rivals to lovers I couldn’t pass up!
When these two families are rivals in general then you throw in a town competition, it only heightened the rivalry aspect! And of course a little forbidden love HAS to happen. With a bit of mystery intrigue in this book, it all around gave me all the feels!
Ryan & Jasmine
This is a good holiday closed-door romance book! It was sweet and brought out all the holiday spirit in me! While I am typically an open door girlie this book had the rivals to lovers I couldn’t pass up!
When these two families are rivals in general then you throw in a town competition, it only heightened the rivalry aspect! And of course a little forbidden love HAS to happen. With a bit of mystery intrigue in this book, it all around gave me all the feels!
Did Not Finish
August 1, 2026I’m sad to say that this book put me into a reading slump. I tried pushing through but I decided to stop around 35%. The book was adorable, and felt like you walked right into a hallmark Christmas movie, unfortunately, I just didn’t care for the main characters. Nothing happened to pull me in right away. I do think this book would be wonderful for those who want a slow burn, non smutty, holiday romance book!
Read
August 16, 2026I love Kasie West and I love Christmas and you present me with this ARC... This cute lil' holiday romance was a fun, quick read to get you in the holiday season. While I can kick it with YA and enjoy it sometimes, this wasn't as good as West's previous works (I will forever stan P.S. I Like You and On the Fence), but the story was solid and I am so excited that West is dabbling in the Christmas romance department! Also, the cover is the cutest ever 💝💝
Review of advance copy
This book was so good!!!!!! It was one of the best books I have ever read. It had Christmas, decorating, competions, friendships, and romance, forbidden romance. The only reason that it is not 5 stars is that there was a lot of lying/deception and hatred. This book is perfect for any teens, its clean to, only kissing, and no bad language or any weird stuff. The main character also has 2 moms for anyone curious about that.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received this book for free to review but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
12+
♥⁕♥vibes♥⁕♥
This book BROUGHT the Christmas and holiday vibes. Sitting in my 80 degree house, I wanted hot chocolate! I loved reading about the holiday season (think pumpkin spice and everything nice but winter) and seeing how much Jasmine and Ryan cared for the season.
♥⁕♥romance♥⁕♥
Jasmine and Ryan are one of my new favorite couples and the third act breakup didn’t suck! I mean, it wasn’t the best but the reasoning was more valid than other stories. The chemistry was there and the tension was almost palpable. They both really cared for each other and tried to protect one another. Sometimes Romeo and Juliet retellings stick but I was in love with this one! It wasn’t too cliche or predictable. Like all Kasie West books the language is clean and I believe the language was mild.
♥⁕♥characters♥⁕♥
Fiona was really obnoxious in my opinion and I don’t know if hse was meant to be or not. The family drama was a tad over the top but kinda believable. The focus of the story was the decorating and romance which I enjoyed. I liked how Jasmine and Ryan didn't hate each other but just started out by staying their distance. I loved Jasmine’s siblings and how they had her back.
Overall, this was another gem by Kasie West and a book I will reread for many holiday seasons to come!
If you like Romeo and Juliet retellings, holiday stories, romantic tension, clean romance, and creativity you will love this book!
Drink to match - hot chocolate with a candy cane ofc!
12+
♥⁕♥vibes♥⁕♥
This book BROUGHT the Christmas and holiday vibes. Sitting in my 80 degree house, I wanted hot chocolate! I loved reading about the holiday season (think pumpkin spice and everything nice but winter) and seeing how much Jasmine and Ryan cared for the season.
♥⁕♥romance♥⁕♥
Jasmine and Ryan are one of my new favorite couples and the third act breakup didn’t suck! I mean, it wasn’t the best but the reasoning was more valid than other stories. The chemistry was there and the tension was almost palpable. They both really cared for each other and tried to protect one another. Sometimes Romeo and Juliet retellings stick but I was in love with this one! It wasn’t too cliche or predictable. Like all Kasie West books the language is clean and I believe the language was mild.
♥⁕♥characters♥⁕♥
Fiona was really obnoxious in my opinion and I don’t know if hse was meant to be or not. The family drama was a tad over the top but kinda believable. The focus of the story was the decorating and romance which I enjoyed. I liked how Jasmine and Ryan didn't hate each other but just started out by staying their distance. I loved Jasmine’s siblings and how they had her back.
Overall, this was another gem by Kasie West and a book I will reread for many holiday seasons to come!
If you like Romeo and Juliet retellings, holiday stories, romantic tension, clean romance, and creativity you will love this book!
Drink to match - hot chocolate with a candy cane ofc!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rtc 😭
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was sweet - I especially liked the family dynamics.
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