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Every Christmas Eve
Lou and Ben fell in love as teenagers at the Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party. Every winter, they saved the date for each other. Until everything changed one fateful night…
Now, after years away, widower Ben and his young daughter are back, determined to revive the legendary party. But with only two weeks to make it happen, they need help. So Ben turns to the one person he could never forget: Lou.
As the days tick down to another Christmas Eve together, old feelings and memories resurface. Will Lou and Ben seize this chance to rewrite their very own love story?
Now, after years away, widower Ben and his young daughter are back, determined to revive the legendary party. But with only two weeks to make it happen, they need help. So Ben turns to the one person he could never forget: Lou.
As the days tick down to another Christmas Eve together, old feelings and memories resurface. Will Lou and Ben seize this chance to rewrite their very own love story?
352 pages, Paperback
First published October 23, 2025
290 people are currently reading
200 people want to read
About the author
Emma Heatherington
20 books263 followersEmma Heatherington is from Donaghmore, Co Tyrone.
Her latest novel, THE PROMISE, is out now in Ireland (HarperFiction) and available elsewhere on Kindle and Audio.
Her latest novel, THE PROMISE, is out now in Ireland (HarperFiction) and available elsewhere on Kindle and Audio.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
December 26, 2025
This was a really great Christmas read. I loved the characters and the setting.
December 28, 2025
The blurb:
Lou and Ben fell in love as teenagers at the Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party. Every winter, they saved the date for each other. Until everything changed one fateful night…
Now, after years away, widower and single dad Ben is back, determined to revive the legendary party. But with only two weeks to make it happen, they need help. So Ben turns to the one person he could never forget: Lou.
As the days tick down to another Christmas Eve together, old feelings and memories resurface.
My thoughts:
A lovely, cosy, festive story.
Lou and Ben fell in love as teenagers at the Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party. Every winter, they saved the date for each other. Until everything changed one fateful night…
Now, after years away, widower and single dad Ben is back, determined to revive the legendary party. But with only two weeks to make it happen, they need help. So Ben turns to the one person he could never forget: Lou.
As the days tick down to another Christmas Eve together, old feelings and memories resurface.
My thoughts:
A lovely, cosy, festive story.
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December 21, 2025
Mhhh non lo soooo, c’è qualcosa di questo libro che non mi ha convinto pienamente, l’ho trovato a tratti un po’ forzato e abbastanza randomico.
La scrittura dell’autrice è molto piacevole, e l’ho comunque apprezzato, una lettura carina, soprattutto da fare sotto Natale. L’atmosfera si sente tutta, ed è una cosa adorabile.
Resta il fatto che, soprattutto il passato dei due protagonisti, non mi ha entusiasmato. Dalle premesse credevo sarebbe stato abbastanza profondo; non è stato così e mi ha parecchio deluso. È stata data troppa importanza ad una cosa che, secondo me, non ha poi retto le aspettative. Certe cose si sono risolte troppo velocemente e certe le ho trovate proprio senza senso. E lo dico soprattutto perché lo sviluppo della storia si regge tutto su quello che è successo nel passato. Secondo me non ha funzionato.
Lou e Ben sono carini, ma non memorabili. (probabilmente mi ricorderò più di Ava che di loro, lei si che è una diva)
Ho apprezzato molto il modo di trattare il lutto e le dinamiche familiari; quello è sicuramente un punto a favore.
Tutto sommato è una storia carina, ma nulla di più.
Sicuramente fa innamorare tantissimo dell’amore ancora e ancora, concetto che trovo estremamente dolce.
La scrittura dell’autrice è molto piacevole, e l’ho comunque apprezzato, una lettura carina, soprattutto da fare sotto Natale. L’atmosfera si sente tutta, ed è una cosa adorabile.
Resta il fatto che, soprattutto il passato dei due protagonisti, non mi ha entusiasmato. Dalle premesse credevo sarebbe stato abbastanza profondo; non è stato così e mi ha parecchio deluso. È stata data troppa importanza ad una cosa che, secondo me, non ha poi retto le aspettative. Certe cose si sono risolte troppo velocemente e certe le ho trovate proprio senza senso. E lo dico soprattutto perché lo sviluppo della storia si regge tutto su quello che è successo nel passato. Secondo me non ha funzionato.
Lou e Ben sono carini, ma non memorabili. (probabilmente mi ricorderò più di Ava che di loro, lei si che è una diva)
Ho apprezzato molto il modo di trattare il lutto e le dinamiche familiari; quello è sicuramente un punto a favore.
Tutto sommato è una storia carina, ma nulla di più.
Sicuramente fa innamorare tantissimo dell’amore ancora e ancora, concetto che trovo estremamente dolce.
December 24, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up to 4 for the Christmas setting.
I have really enjoyed reading a few Christmas novels in the lead up to the 25th. 'Every Christmas Eve' was a comforting, predictable if a somewhat slow-paced novel.
Uplifting, with the lovely cosy Irish setting of Ballyheaney House made for a great atmosphere.
I have really enjoyed reading a few Christmas novels in the lead up to the 25th. 'Every Christmas Eve' was a comforting, predictable if a somewhat slow-paced novel.
Uplifting, with the lovely cosy Irish setting of Ballyheaney House made for a great atmosphere.
November 12, 2025
Star Rating: 4/5
Spice Rating: 1/5
“I see her in my dreams, which I'm not sure if I love or hate any more.”
Thoughts: I read this book in about 2 days, roughly. It was like a hallmark Christmas movie in a book, or like getting a big ole hug. I really enjoyed how we got the MC's story in both the present day and on Christmas Eves past. I thought this was done really well, as we got to see them reconnect and grow in the present day and come back together, where we also got to see their breakdown as a couple and friends over Christmas Eve past. This was a great contrast in their story. I did struggle at times to understand how old his daughter was; sometimes the behaviour and dialogue made her appear to be around 14/15 years old, and then at other times it felt like she was only around 7/8. I did enjoy, though, how, although this story was about Lou and Ben, we also got bits of the stories and lives of everyone else around them. I just felt this made the book cuter and more Christmas-y. Overall, I loved this book and would definitely read some more from Emma Heatherington.
Favourite Moment: I really loved when she read out the letter to that husband; I just felt it was such a cute little moment in the book, and it was a green flag behaviour.
Notes: This is Christmas in a hug, a Hallmark Christmas movie in a book
#everychristmaseve #emmaheatherington #hallmarkchristmasmovie #romance #smalltown #christmas #secondchanceromance
Spice Rating: 1/5
“I see her in my dreams, which I'm not sure if I love or hate any more.”
Thoughts: I read this book in about 2 days, roughly. It was like a hallmark Christmas movie in a book, or like getting a big ole hug. I really enjoyed how we got the MC's story in both the present day and on Christmas Eves past. I thought this was done really well, as we got to see them reconnect and grow in the present day and come back together, where we also got to see their breakdown as a couple and friends over Christmas Eve past. This was a great contrast in their story. I did struggle at times to understand how old his daughter was; sometimes the behaviour and dialogue made her appear to be around 14/15 years old, and then at other times it felt like she was only around 7/8. I did enjoy, though, how, although this story was about Lou and Ben, we also got bits of the stories and lives of everyone else around them. I just felt this made the book cuter and more Christmas-y. Overall, I loved this book and would definitely read some more from Emma Heatherington.
Favourite Moment: I really loved when she read out the letter to that husband; I just felt it was such a cute little moment in the book, and it was a green flag behaviour.
Notes: This is Christmas in a hug, a Hallmark Christmas movie in a book
#everychristmaseve #emmaheatherington #hallmarkchristmasmovie #romance #smalltown #christmas #secondchanceromance
December 21, 2025
A cosy, whimsy Christmas story with a sweet plot. I loved the characters, I love an author that gives every character a story and origin and depth. A perfect comfort book when you’re looking for a ‘happy ending for all’ story. Heatherington explores complex family dynamics, grief and love after loss making this a relatable, touching and enjoyable read. A beautiful Christmas story with 1/5 spice (at last!) and 5/5 plot and 5/5 characters.
A 4 star for me as I would have liked to know how Stephanie and Ben got together and their journey with having Ava and then cancer diagnosis. I found myself waiting for it with conversations between Cordelia and Lou or Ben and Lou. All the characters were loveable, non problematic, and well developed. The plot was exceptional and had me coming back and not wanting to put it down. Also loved this was a 2nd chance romance with MC in their 40s. Realistic! Emma you have done a beautiful job here, can’t wait to read all your other novels.
A 4 star for me as I would have liked to know how Stephanie and Ben got together and their journey with having Ava and then cancer diagnosis. I found myself waiting for it with conversations between Cordelia and Lou or Ben and Lou. All the characters were loveable, non problematic, and well developed. The plot was exceptional and had me coming back and not wanting to put it down. Also loved this was a 2nd chance romance with MC in their 40s. Realistic! Emma you have done a beautiful job here, can’t wait to read all your other novels.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 23, 2025
I think I’m a bit of a grinch this year but this was not very good unfortunately
The premise itself was good but it just fell so flat and was very boring 🫣 it was way too slow and nothing actually really happened, kinda feel i wasted my time here
I saw another review say it should’ve gone through more rounds of editing and I’m definitely inclined to agree with that in this case
The premise itself was good but it just fell so flat and was very boring 🫣 it was way too slow and nothing actually really happened, kinda feel i wasted my time here
I saw another review say it should’ve gone through more rounds of editing and I’m definitely inclined to agree with that in this case
August 19, 2025
A lovely heartwarming Christmas read. I really like Uncle Eric he made me chuckle. Always look forward to Christmas eve as you never know what could happen
December 22, 2025
3⭐️ It was okay, nowhere near the same level as the one I read by her last year, this was soooo slow my god
December 24, 2025
such a cozy feeling
December 15, 2025
A heartwarming Christmas read set in the village of Bellaghy. It’s an easy read and I appreciated that Lou had set up a business as a florist. Stephanie’s death was touched on but it wasn’t clear what happened to her. Well done to Emma for writing this as she battles her own cancer treatment.
December 12, 2025
An undeniably charming read, with all of the twinkly, feel-good vibes you would expect from a festive romance. The characters are warm and likeable, the setting is pretty and picturesque, and the story absolutely leans into the magic of the festive season.
However, the romance for me just felt a little bit too cutesy, if that makes any sense 😅 it was very sickly sweet, and the balance of this alongside the actual plot felt off. Yes there was emotion, especially as Lou and Ben’s lives haven’t quite taken the path they maybe expected and there are tinges of regret and time lost, but some of the scenes felt quite predictable rather than heartwarming.
I’ve really enjoyed the author’s previous two Christmas books, but there was just something a little bit too saccharine about this one for me! I felt it was lacking the depth that I feel her previous books have had. Despite the back stories of Lou and Ben, it just didn’t feel enough for me. But it was a pleasant enough festive read with romance at the very core.
However, the romance for me just felt a little bit too cutesy, if that makes any sense 😅 it was very sickly sweet, and the balance of this alongside the actual plot felt off. Yes there was emotion, especially as Lou and Ben’s lives haven’t quite taken the path they maybe expected and there are tinges of regret and time lost, but some of the scenes felt quite predictable rather than heartwarming.
I’ve really enjoyed the author’s previous two Christmas books, but there was just something a little bit too saccharine about this one for me! I felt it was lacking the depth that I feel her previous books have had. Despite the back stories of Lou and Ben, it just didn’t feel enough for me. But it was a pleasant enough festive read with romance at the very core.
December 4, 2025
I loved the concept of this book, the storyline had a lot of potential, as did the characters and setting.
Unfortunately, a few more rounds of editing were definitely needed. There were a few too many grammatical issues, cliches, and sloppy language for me to fully enjoy it.
But still a nice cosy Christmas read.
Unfortunately, a few more rounds of editing were definitely needed. There were a few too many grammatical issues, cliches, and sloppy language for me to fully enjoy it.
But still a nice cosy Christmas read.
December 19, 2025
This book is like a warm hug.
Another gorgeous Christmassy read from Emma Heatherington. It doesn't feel like December until I have read her annual release. This is just exactly what I wanted from a Christmas book. It is so cosy and feel good, I loved every second.
Another gorgeous Christmassy read from Emma Heatherington. It doesn't feel like December until I have read her annual release. This is just exactly what I wanted from a Christmas book. It is so cosy and feel good, I loved every second.
November 30, 2025
Free Courtesy of Netgalley.
I have read a couple of Emma's books and I really enjoyed this book. Set in Ireland it tells the story of first love that hasn't survived the teen years but is not forgotten, even though both of them are now middle ages, been married and had children with other partners.
The agreement they made was that they would always spend Christmas eve together but life got in the way, and Lou and Ben, could not sustain the fragile relationship they had when they both attended University in different places.
Years later in the small town they were brought up in, Ben's family have been asked to host a charity Christmas eve party in their big house, the way it used to be. Ben travels home with his young daughter to help his family organise it, to realise that Lou has moved back to Ireland from New York and has her own business in the town. Can they work together again to put the party together and face the reason they split up.
It was a feel good Christmas book and I would recommend reading it.
I have read a couple of Emma's books and I really enjoyed this book. Set in Ireland it tells the story of first love that hasn't survived the teen years but is not forgotten, even though both of them are now middle ages, been married and had children with other partners.
The agreement they made was that they would always spend Christmas eve together but life got in the way, and Lou and Ben, could not sustain the fragile relationship they had when they both attended University in different places.
Years later in the small town they were brought up in, Ben's family have been asked to host a charity Christmas eve party in their big house, the way it used to be. Ben travels home with his young daughter to help his family organise it, to realise that Lou has moved back to Ireland from New York and has her own business in the town. Can they work together again to put the party together and face the reason they split up.
It was a feel good Christmas book and I would recommend reading it.
December 16, 2025
This book didn’t just make me emotional – it undid me in the quiet, gentle way that only Emma Heatherington can. From the very first pages, I felt that familiar tightening in my chest, the sense that I was stepping into something tender and meaningful, something that was going to ask me to feel deeply and without restraint.
Every Christmas Eve is a story about first love and the kind of love that never truly leaves you. It’s about the people who shape us when we’re young, the moments that define us, and the way grief and regret can linger quietly in the background of our lives. Emma writes these emotions with such care and authenticity that it feels less like reading a book and more like being trusted with someone’s memories.
Lou and Ben’s story is heartbreaking and hopeful in equal measure. Their shared past is soaked in nostalgia, in that golden glow of teenage love and Christmas Eve magic – the kind of memories that hurt a little to revisit because they mattered so much. Watching them navigate the weight of everything was emotional in a way that felt very real. There’s no rush here, no easy fixes. Just two people carrying scars, trying to work out if love can survive time, loss, and everything unsaid.
Ben’s grief, especially, is written with such compassion. It’s raw without being overwhelming, quiet without ever being shallow. And the inclusion of his daughter brought an added layer of tenderness to the story – those moments absolutely broke me. Emma has such a beautiful way of writing parenthood, love, and vulnerability, and I felt every single one of those scenes deep in my chest.
And then there’s Christmas Eve itself – not just as a date, but as a symbol. A reminder of tradition, of hope, of the possibility that even the most painful stories might still have room for joy. The countdown to Christmas Eve had me holding my breath, turning pages with tears in my eyes, desperately wanting things to work out while also bracing myself for heartbreak. Emma has a way of making you hope with your whole heart, even when you’re scared to.
I laughed softly at moments of warmth and familiarity. I cried – proper tears, the kind where you have to stop reading and just feel. I went through more than one tissue, and I absolutely needed them. This book has all the feels: love, loss, longing, healing, and that quiet, powerful belief that second chances might still be possible.
When I reached the end, I just sat there for a while. That’s always how I know a book has truly touched me – when I’m not ready to leave it yet. Every Christmas Eve stayed with me long after the final page, settling into my heart like a memory rather than a story.
Emma Heatherington has once again delivered a Christmas story that feels deeply human and achingly beautiful. This isn’t just a festive romance – it’s a reminder of why we love, why we hope, and why some stories are meant to be felt rather than simply read.
If you’re looking for a Christmas book that will wrap itself around your heart, gently break it, and then leave it warmer than before… this one is unforgettable. 🎄💔✨
Every Christmas Eve is a story about first love and the kind of love that never truly leaves you. It’s about the people who shape us when we’re young, the moments that define us, and the way grief and regret can linger quietly in the background of our lives. Emma writes these emotions with such care and authenticity that it feels less like reading a book and more like being trusted with someone’s memories.
Lou and Ben’s story is heartbreaking and hopeful in equal measure. Their shared past is soaked in nostalgia, in that golden glow of teenage love and Christmas Eve magic – the kind of memories that hurt a little to revisit because they mattered so much. Watching them navigate the weight of everything was emotional in a way that felt very real. There’s no rush here, no easy fixes. Just two people carrying scars, trying to work out if love can survive time, loss, and everything unsaid.
Ben’s grief, especially, is written with such compassion. It’s raw without being overwhelming, quiet without ever being shallow. And the inclusion of his daughter brought an added layer of tenderness to the story – those moments absolutely broke me. Emma has such a beautiful way of writing parenthood, love, and vulnerability, and I felt every single one of those scenes deep in my chest.
And then there’s Christmas Eve itself – not just as a date, but as a symbol. A reminder of tradition, of hope, of the possibility that even the most painful stories might still have room for joy. The countdown to Christmas Eve had me holding my breath, turning pages with tears in my eyes, desperately wanting things to work out while also bracing myself for heartbreak. Emma has a way of making you hope with your whole heart, even when you’re scared to.
I laughed softly at moments of warmth and familiarity. I cried – proper tears, the kind where you have to stop reading and just feel. I went through more than one tissue, and I absolutely needed them. This book has all the feels: love, loss, longing, healing, and that quiet, powerful belief that second chances might still be possible.
When I reached the end, I just sat there for a while. That’s always how I know a book has truly touched me – when I’m not ready to leave it yet. Every Christmas Eve stayed with me long after the final page, settling into my heart like a memory rather than a story.
Emma Heatherington has once again delivered a Christmas story that feels deeply human and achingly beautiful. This isn’t just a festive romance – it’s a reminder of why we love, why we hope, and why some stories are meant to be felt rather than simply read.
If you’re looking for a Christmas book that will wrap itself around your heart, gently break it, and then leave it warmer than before… this one is unforgettable. 🎄💔✨
December 6, 2025
I have read Emma Heatherington’s festive releases over the past few years and have really enjoyed doing so, so when I saw this one I knew it would have to be another book that I read running up to Christmas and I wasn’t disappointed at all.
Every Christmas Eve follows Lou and Ben who fell in love as teenagers at an annual Christmas Eve party until everything changed one year. Now after years apart they have both returned to the town they grew up in, with Ben asking Lou to help bring back the Christmas party and as Christmas Eve gets closer old feelings resurface between the two.
I loved the feeling of this small Irish town where it felt like everyone knew everyone and would be perfect to visit over the winter. I felt like I could really picture the town and all the characters from it that we met, which is always a good sign.
One of my favourite things about this book, and the previous books I have read from Emma Heatherington I loved the side characters that made up Ben and Lou’s families, I could read a book about so many of them on their own and I definitely was made to laugh by some of the things that were said, particularly by Lou’s Nana Molly. I always seem to love the grandparent characters in festive books.
The romance throughout this book was definitely built up through the flashback chapters to previous Christmas Eve’s featured throughout the book and while I did have an element of being a bit unsure of what had happened in their past and where the story was going to go but I ended up really enjoying watching the way their relationship developed both in the past and present. I felt like it all happened at the right speed for the characters which I always love in books.
Overall, this was a great festive contemporary book and I will definitely continue to read the books that Emma Heatherington releases, as I find I really like her characters, support her relationships and love the settings. I definitely do recommend this book for reading in the run up to Christmas.
Thank you to Penguin and Netgalley for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Every Christmas Eve follows Lou and Ben who fell in love as teenagers at an annual Christmas Eve party until everything changed one year. Now after years apart they have both returned to the town they grew up in, with Ben asking Lou to help bring back the Christmas party and as Christmas Eve gets closer old feelings resurface between the two.
I loved the feeling of this small Irish town where it felt like everyone knew everyone and would be perfect to visit over the winter. I felt like I could really picture the town and all the characters from it that we met, which is always a good sign.
One of my favourite things about this book, and the previous books I have read from Emma Heatherington I loved the side characters that made up Ben and Lou’s families, I could read a book about so many of them on their own and I definitely was made to laugh by some of the things that were said, particularly by Lou’s Nana Molly. I always seem to love the grandparent characters in festive books.
The romance throughout this book was definitely built up through the flashback chapters to previous Christmas Eve’s featured throughout the book and while I did have an element of being a bit unsure of what had happened in their past and where the story was going to go but I ended up really enjoying watching the way their relationship developed both in the past and present. I felt like it all happened at the right speed for the characters which I always love in books.
Overall, this was a great festive contemporary book and I will definitely continue to read the books that Emma Heatherington releases, as I find I really like her characters, support her relationships and love the settings. I definitely do recommend this book for reading in the run up to Christmas.
Thank you to Penguin and Netgalley for a free e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 15, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Penguin for an advanced copy of Every Christmas Eve in exchange for a review. 4.5 stars rounded up.
If you’re looking for the perfect, cosy, goosebump-inducing festive read in the lead-up to this Christmas, this is absolutely the book for you!
Set in the gorgeous Irish village of Bellaghy, we start on Christmas Eve 25 years ago, when 16-year-old Lou meets 17-year-old Ben at his family’s famous Christmas Eve party at Ballyheaney House. The two have an instant connection and vow to always keep in touch and think of each other on Christmas Eve.
In this present day, 41-year-old Lou has recently moved back to the village after 20 years in New York. Recently single, and with her daughter Gracie grown up, she’s ready for a new start but not sure if moving back was the right thing.
When the request to bring back the Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party reaches the widowed Ben in Dublin, he decides the event might be just the thing to cheer up his daughter Ava.
And so, Lou and Ben finally meet again, and perhaps it might finally be the right timing!
Ah this was so gorgeous! I loved the cosy warm setting, the quirky Nana Molly and Uncle Eric, the wholesome loveliness of Lou and Ben, and Lou’s amazing florist/coffee shop, Buds and Beans. And, of course, the dogs, Roly the golden retriever and Crumb, the dachshund puppy!
Everything came together perfectly and was everything you could ever want from a Christmas book!
If you’re looking for the perfect, cosy, goosebump-inducing festive read in the lead-up to this Christmas, this is absolutely the book for you!
Set in the gorgeous Irish village of Bellaghy, we start on Christmas Eve 25 years ago, when 16-year-old Lou meets 17-year-old Ben at his family’s famous Christmas Eve party at Ballyheaney House. The two have an instant connection and vow to always keep in touch and think of each other on Christmas Eve.
In this present day, 41-year-old Lou has recently moved back to the village after 20 years in New York. Recently single, and with her daughter Gracie grown up, she’s ready for a new start but not sure if moving back was the right thing.
When the request to bring back the Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party reaches the widowed Ben in Dublin, he decides the event might be just the thing to cheer up his daughter Ava.
And so, Lou and Ben finally meet again, and perhaps it might finally be the right timing!
Ah this was so gorgeous! I loved the cosy warm setting, the quirky Nana Molly and Uncle Eric, the wholesome loveliness of Lou and Ben, and Lou’s amazing florist/coffee shop, Buds and Beans. And, of course, the dogs, Roly the golden retriever and Crumb, the dachshund puppy!
Everything came together perfectly and was everything you could ever want from a Christmas book!
December 19, 2025
Every Christmas Eve is a heartfelt and emotional festive romance about second chances, secrets, and a touch of Christmas magic.
The story follows Lou and Ben, whose teenage romance began years ago at the legendary Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party. Years later, Lou has returned to Ireland and Ben is back too, and the past they both tried to leave behind quickly resurfaces.
What really drew me in was the way the story moves between past and present, slowly revealing what happened all those years ago. It’s full of misunderstandings and secrets that have shaped their lives, and I found myself constantly guessing who knew what.
The family dynamics are beautifully written. There are warm, gossipy moments that genuinely made me laugh (Nana Molly is an absolute gem), alongside tense encounters that made my stomach twist. The cast includes characters you instantly adore, as well as one who had me bristling from the moment she appeared.
Lou and Ben’s chemistry is undeniable. Watching them slip back into familiar rhythms after so many years apart was both comforting and heartbreaking, especially with so much left unsaid. Ben’s role as a widowed father is handled with real sensitivity, adding emotional depth to the story.
This is a story about timing, choices, and the people who leave lasting marks on our lives.
If you love second-chance romances, small-town Christmas vibes, and stories that gently tug at your heartstrings, this one is definitely for you.
The story follows Lou and Ben, whose teenage romance began years ago at the legendary Ballyheaney Christmas Eve party. Years later, Lou has returned to Ireland and Ben is back too, and the past they both tried to leave behind quickly resurfaces.
What really drew me in was the way the story moves between past and present, slowly revealing what happened all those years ago. It’s full of misunderstandings and secrets that have shaped their lives, and I found myself constantly guessing who knew what.
The family dynamics are beautifully written. There are warm, gossipy moments that genuinely made me laugh (Nana Molly is an absolute gem), alongside tense encounters that made my stomach twist. The cast includes characters you instantly adore, as well as one who had me bristling from the moment she appeared.
Lou and Ben’s chemistry is undeniable. Watching them slip back into familiar rhythms after so many years apart was both comforting and heartbreaking, especially with so much left unsaid. Ben’s role as a widowed father is handled with real sensitivity, adding emotional depth to the story.
This is a story about timing, choices, and the people who leave lasting marks on our lives.
If you love second-chance romances, small-town Christmas vibes, and stories that gently tug at your heartstrings, this one is definitely for you.
November 7, 2025
This is such a gorgeous, heartwarming dual timeline Christmas story, which I devoured in no time.
Lou and Ben fall for each other as teenagers one Christmas Eve as they bring a little foal into the world together. From then on, regardless of what each year brings, Christmas is always their special time and they truly believe that one day they will settle down together. But of course life rarely works out in the way you imagine...
Twenty-five years later, both Lou and Ben find themselves back in their childhood home town and it’s not long before their paths cross. As preparations for the return of an annual Charity Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve at Ballyheaney House start to take shape, will Lou and Ben finally find a way to each other after all these years apart?
I have to say reading this book has totally made me want to put my Christmas decorations up right now. Ballyheaney House just sounded absolutely magical and I loved Uncle Eric and Nana Molly. They are characters who will be making you laugh out loud more than once!
Whilst being a wonderfully cosy festive read, this book doesn’t just bring you love and romance, it also touches upon the loss of a parent at a young age, albeit in a very sensitive way. I wholeheartedly recommend this one: it will definitely get you in the festive spirit.
Lou and Ben fall for each other as teenagers one Christmas Eve as they bring a little foal into the world together. From then on, regardless of what each year brings, Christmas is always their special time and they truly believe that one day they will settle down together. But of course life rarely works out in the way you imagine...
Twenty-five years later, both Lou and Ben find themselves back in their childhood home town and it’s not long before their paths cross. As preparations for the return of an annual Charity Afternoon Tea on Christmas Eve at Ballyheaney House start to take shape, will Lou and Ben finally find a way to each other after all these years apart?
I have to say reading this book has totally made me want to put my Christmas decorations up right now. Ballyheaney House just sounded absolutely magical and I loved Uncle Eric and Nana Molly. They are characters who will be making you laugh out loud more than once!
Whilst being a wonderfully cosy festive read, this book doesn’t just bring you love and romance, it also touches upon the loss of a parent at a young age, albeit in a very sensitive way. I wholeheartedly recommend this one: it will definitely get you in the festive spirit.
October 1, 2025
What an totally and utterly gorgeous love story this is.
I absolutely adored seeing the Christmas's in the past, where Lou and Ben's love story started, with the most fabulously memorable first meeting of them. We get to see each Christmas over the next few years, as their connection and feelings grow deeper, until things go wrong.
Alongside this, we have the present day story, where they are now back in each others orbits for the first time in many years, attempting to put together a bit epic party, that they used to do as a well oiled team. Lou feels as though she is part of Ben's family, but is aware that with Ava in the picture things may not be simple, that's if either of them are able to risk their hearts.
I loved Uncle Eric, actually I loved all the characters. It was such a mixed bunch of people that I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know.
I was totally gripped by this book, to the extent I was oblivious to my surroundings. It's another wonderful story from this always fabulous author and I was totally there for it. Just wonderful.
Thank you to Penguin and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I absolutely adored seeing the Christmas's in the past, where Lou and Ben's love story started, with the most fabulously memorable first meeting of them. We get to see each Christmas over the next few years, as their connection and feelings grow deeper, until things go wrong.
Alongside this, we have the present day story, where they are now back in each others orbits for the first time in many years, attempting to put together a bit epic party, that they used to do as a well oiled team. Lou feels as though she is part of Ben's family, but is aware that with Ava in the picture things may not be simple, that's if either of them are able to risk their hearts.
I loved Uncle Eric, actually I loved all the characters. It was such a mixed bunch of people that I thoroughly enjoyed getting to know.
I was totally gripped by this book, to the extent I was oblivious to my surroundings. It's another wonderful story from this always fabulous author and I was totally there for it. Just wonderful.
Thank you to Penguin and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
November 4, 2025
Every Christmas Eve is a warm and cosy Christmas read, and one I can see myself picking up again during the Christmas holidays.
I loved that Emma and Ben were in their 40s, and finding their way back to each other after relationships and children. Their dynamics were more slow and cautious, and there was a refreshing maturity to the way they communicated and explored their own and each others vulnerabilities.
The exploration of love after loss was touching, and handled with both sensitivity and insight. This, the beautiful, grand, and remote setting, and the wonderful cast of supporting characters really elevated the story for me. Most of all, though, I loved the sense of family and tradition that was woven throughout the book, making this a truly heartwarming read.
I’d recommend this for anyone looking for a low-conflict, cosy, and festive romantic read, perfect for the holidays.
Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
I loved that Emma and Ben were in their 40s, and finding their way back to each other after relationships and children. Their dynamics were more slow and cautious, and there was a refreshing maturity to the way they communicated and explored their own and each others vulnerabilities.
The exploration of love after loss was touching, and handled with both sensitivity and insight. This, the beautiful, grand, and remote setting, and the wonderful cast of supporting characters really elevated the story for me. Most of all, though, I loved the sense of family and tradition that was woven throughout the book, making this a truly heartwarming read.
I’d recommend this for anyone looking for a low-conflict, cosy, and festive romantic read, perfect for the holidays.
Thank you to the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed are my own.
October 29, 2025
This was another wonderfully heart warming festive read by this author, they really know how to make the festive season come alive and fill it with beautiful places, people and very readable situations.
This story was all about second chances and not just for Lou and Ben but also for some others around the village. Not all of the relationships that needed help were of the romantic kind, a few were familial or friends where the years had passed and people moved on/away.
The story is told to us over a dual timeline of then and now and by both Lou and Ben, it’s one that kept me thinking about it when I wasn’t reading it as I pondered what had happened between them all those years ago to make them go their separate ways and could whatever it was be overcome now and give them a happy ever after future together? There’s only one way for you to find out, the same way I did, get the book and read it!
This story was all about second chances and not just for Lou and Ben but also for some others around the village. Not all of the relationships that needed help were of the romantic kind, a few were familial or friends where the years had passed and people moved on/away.
The story is told to us over a dual timeline of then and now and by both Lou and Ben, it’s one that kept me thinking about it when I wasn’t reading it as I pondered what had happened between them all those years ago to make them go their separate ways and could whatever it was be overcome now and give them a happy ever after future together? There’s only one way for you to find out, the same way I did, get the book and read it!
September 12, 2025
Another wonderful story from this lovely author.
When Ben and Lou unexpectedly meet, many years after some unforgettable Christmas Eves, emotions run high. With meaningful flashbacks, to them as teenagers, while also discovering what has occurred over the years they have been apart, can a Christmas Eve party reunite them?
This is beautifully written and the characters so well developed. As you learn more about them, they will all have a place in your heart. I love the cafe come flower shop, and the descriptions of Ballyheaney house and grounds. Uncle Eric and Nana Molly are such wonderful characters, adding humour and warmth throughout.
All in all a lovely festive read, with fantastic characters and a wonderful plot. I laughed, I cried and I throughly enjoyed it.
October 19, 2025
Lou and Ben fell in love as young teenagers, and decided that Christmas Eve would be "their" date, they would always save it for each other. However, life had different ideas, and things go badly wrong in their late teens. Many years later, Ben is back in his home town with his daughter Ava, and finds himself needing Lou's help. Can they work together and help host the annual Ballyheaney party?
A dual timeline story with lots of flashbacks to help the reader piece together the story. I loved Ben's Uncle Eris and Lou's Nanna Molly - the older characters were wonderful in this book. The idea for Lou's shop, being a florist and a coffee shop, was brilliant, I felt like I wanted to visit. Packed full of beautiful Christmassy descriptions, it is a fabulous cosy Winter love story.
A dual timeline story with lots of flashbacks to help the reader piece together the story. I loved Ben's Uncle Eris and Lou's Nanna Molly - the older characters were wonderful in this book. The idea for Lou's shop, being a florist and a coffee shop, was brilliant, I felt like I wanted to visit. Packed full of beautiful Christmassy descriptions, it is a fabulous cosy Winter love story.
August 8, 2025
Lou and Ben met and fell in love when they were teenagers, the spark was always there until one night everything changed.
Time moved on, they both grew up, and had families of their own. Now they are both back in their local village and the annual Christmas Eve party has been reinstated.
The characters were likeable and I enjoyed how the book went back to the past and was also told from both Ben and Lou’s point of views.
A beautiful and enjoyable Christmas read that shows their spark never really died.
Thanks to NetGalley, Emma Heatherington and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Time moved on, they both grew up, and had families of their own. Now they are both back in their local village and the annual Christmas Eve party has been reinstated.
The characters were likeable and I enjoyed how the book went back to the past and was also told from both Ben and Lou’s point of views.
A beautiful and enjoyable Christmas read that shows their spark never really died.
Thanks to NetGalley, Emma Heatherington and Random House UK, Cornerstone for an advance copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
September 2, 2025
Wonderfully festive! Emma Heatherington delivers lots of Christmas cheer with this story, including second chance romances, loveable characters, and an Irish café that's also a flower shop, inspired!
I felt that although most of the plot centers around the younger mistakes of the two main characters (delivered through chapter flashbacks) and them now trying to both start new chapters back at their childhood village, this is a story that's less about anything dramatic happening and more about the nostalgia of youth & the joy of reuniting with special people from the past, and for that I really loved it.
I felt that although most of the plot centers around the younger mistakes of the two main characters (delivered through chapter flashbacks) and them now trying to both start new chapters back at their childhood village, this is a story that's less about anything dramatic happening and more about the nostalgia of youth & the joy of reuniting with special people from the past, and for that I really loved it.
December 15, 2025
Oh yes, yes, yes! I absolutely adored this warm, Christmassy romance. It has everything you could want… Characters with depth and heart, a loving community, reflections and revelations from the past, as well as Christmassy traditions, second chances and romance 🫶👏💛. I LOVE Emma’s writing, she allows us to get to know the characters effortlessly - I was invested in the outcome from page one! I really enjoyed the steps back in time and then back to present day between chapters, revealing, subtly, the effects of passing time on each of the main characters. This is a book you could easily devour in one sitting or, like me, sit and savour.
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