Back to December

by Shelby Camp

You must read Back to December, a breathtaking, heart-twisting contemporary romance about the kind of love that finds you once, changes everything, and never fully lets you go. When Penny Miller meets Wes Hart one snowy winter, their worlds collide in a way that feels impossible to explain and even harder to resist. What begins as a spark becomes a year of long-distance devotion—midnight calls, stolen weekends, and a connection so deep it feels inevitable. But as life pulls them in different directions, they’re forced to confront the question that haunts anyone who’s ever loved too young or too What if love isn’t enough to keep two soulmates in the same place at the same time? Atmospheric, nostalgic, and emotionally unforgettable, Back to December is the story you’ll be thinking about long after you turn the final page.

412 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 15, 2026

Reviews

[Terrence Wilson]

Back To December was a great book and Shelby Camp has written one of my favorite books. When reading her book I was fully engaged and couldn't wait to see what Wess and Penelope were going to do next and I can't wait to see what Shelby does next. I would suggest back to December to anyone if they asked me what's a good romance book and I'll suggest Shelby camp if someone asked for a great Arthur.

[Kyndra Cardwell-Torgerson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book gives all the fuzzy feelings. I fell in love with the characters from the very beginning. This book moves at a fast pace that makes you wanting more after each chapter, never wanting to put the book down. I love me a good romance, but this is so much more than that. There is emotional depth and real life situations that you usually don’t see in romance novels.

I will be the first to say I cried multiple times during my read. I took my time reading as I wanted to soak it all in.

I will be patiently (not really, because I’m dying here) waiting for book 2 and demanding answers because man oh man, I want to know what is to come next for these two love birds.

If you’re looking to add a romance to your 2026 tbr, this is the book to add.

Also, the spicy scenes are very well written. And much enjoyed by this reader.

I can’t wait for future books by Shelby.

[Leah Cramer · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm about 60% done with this book, but I wanted to get my review out there in time for release day! This book has SO much of the warm, fuzzy feels of a new relationship. I felt sparks just reading it! I love how the characters both just have a totally electric meet-cute. And I can absolutely relate to Penny wanting to plan and control every aspect of her life, so it's extra sweet when Wes comes in and blows that all up. I love Penny's friends and how they interact with everyone. The characters seem very real, and I am enjoying meeting them all. The dual POV chapters are great; keeps the story fresh and moving at a nice pace. I will update more when I've finished!

update: the ending!!! oh my gosh! I won't spoil anything, but 🤯.

[Sherry · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I picked up “Back to December” I was drawn into the mountain setting and the characters. This’s book pulls you in immediately and you will have a hard time putting it down! It will take you back to your own love story or if you haven’t had one yet, it will define what you want for yours. Shelby Camp knocked it out of the ballpark with this story. If you love a spicy romance novel, this is the book for you!

[Elizabeth Alvarez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back to December takes you into a quintessential PNW back drop where your emotions come alive as you follow the story of Wes Hart and Penny Miller. Their romance and timeline together keeps you from putting the book down. I was truly invested in all the characters and the ending was so satisfying for me, ( it hurts so good!).
Shelby Camp’s insightful knowledge of human behavior and relationships is beautifully and heartbreakingly articulated in this lovely book. Bravo!!

[Mary · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the kind of love story that stays with you. One that reminds you that passion and devotion don’t always guarantee a happily ever after, and that sometimes the most heartbreaking endings are the ones where love is still very much alive. Bittersweet, aching, and beautifully written.