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Love Me Down to Christmas
Not yet published
Expected 29 Sep 26- GenresChristmas
272 pages, Paperback
Expected publication September 29, 2026
About the author
Aries Skye
12 books148 followersThis fiery Aries lady—Aries Skye, believes in the power of black love. She sets her focus on highlighting the realities of beautiful black individuals finding their way in life through love. That’s exactly what her #SkyeStories bring—penning the beauty in Black romance. A natural-born writer, Aries Skye has been crafting stories since she was a preteen and went on to major in English – Creative Writing at ASU. When she’s not wielding her magical black girl pen, she’s cocooned in the peace and comfort of her family with her adoring husband of two decades and their four energetic and artistic womb fruits.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
Advanced Reader Copy by Author
If you dig Hallmark romances, childhood best friends to lovers, and a slow-burn second chance romance, this book was made just for you.
I truly enjoyed the deep connection and rich history between the main characters, Jacob and Amariah. Their journey felt pure and real. Aries Skye does an amazing job exploring themes of healing, forgiveness, family, and the impact that time and misunderstandings can have on relationships.
This is not a fast-paced romance. It's a character-driven story that takes its time rebuilding trust and allowing old feelings to resurface. If you enjoy relationships taking its time than rushing, you’ll really appreciate the pacing. The small-town holiday setting adds a warm charm, making it the perfect romance to grab hot coco with your favorite blanket while holiday season approaches.
It’s a beautiful story supported by faith, love, and plenty of emotion. Highly recommend adding this to your holiday TBR list! 📖❤️Thank you Aries Skye for my advanced reader copy!
If you dig Hallmark romances, childhood best friends to lovers, and a slow-burn second chance romance, this book was made just for you.
I truly enjoyed the deep connection and rich history between the main characters, Jacob and Amariah. Their journey felt pure and real. Aries Skye does an amazing job exploring themes of healing, forgiveness, family, and the impact that time and misunderstandings can have on relationships.
This is not a fast-paced romance. It's a character-driven story that takes its time rebuilding trust and allowing old feelings to resurface. If you enjoy relationships taking its time than rushing, you’ll really appreciate the pacing. The small-town holiday setting adds a warm charm, making it the perfect romance to grab hot coco with your favorite blanket while holiday season approaches.
It’s a beautiful story supported by faith, love, and plenty of emotion. Highly recommend adding this to your holiday TBR list! 📖❤️Thank you Aries Skye for my advanced reader copy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a new author for me. I truly enjoyed so much about this book. I love a good romance although I prefer it a little less messy. This romance had so much going for it. Yes, it was romantic, but it was also about family, friendship, and community. This small town second chance romance was about Jacob and Amariah, best friends since childhood, who let misunderstandings and a lack of communication keep them apart for eighteen years. Amariah’s father’s failing health brought her back to town and into Jacob’s life again. Their time together quickly brought back old feelings that neither had ever expressed. After finally talking over past hurts and misunderstandings, they began to find their way to a new beginning until the past came back with a vengeance. Through all the hurt and missteps, the love they had remained. Jacob was a hero with the time and effort. He was steadfast even in his anger. He loved her and her family hard. Initially, he was functioning through hurt and insecurities, but it was always came back to his love for Amariah. It was constant even though he never told her. Amariah cared for Jacob too, but she wasn’t as ready and willing to jump in fully for quite a while.
The friendships that they all had from childhood were endearing and entertaining. The banter in the deep conversations were funny and enlightening. The older generation and their conversations were even funnier. The communities sticking together and supporting one another was heartening. The support through grief and the loss of parents was felt and appreciated. This book gave me all the feels of all kinds of black love. There was a bit of messiness and gossip that added to the entertainment. These characters were all people that you could root for and pray for their happy ending. I know this was a holiday romance, but it just felt like so much more with a little Christmas holiday fun on the side. I almost didn’t want it to be over so soon.
The friendships that they all had from childhood were endearing and entertaining. The banter in the deep conversations were funny and enlightening. The older generation and their conversations were even funnier. The communities sticking together and supporting one another was heartening. The support through grief and the loss of parents was felt and appreciated. This book gave me all the feels of all kinds of black love. There was a bit of messiness and gossip that added to the entertainment. These characters were all people that you could root for and pray for their happy ending. I know this was a holiday romance, but it just felt like so much more with a little Christmas holiday fun on the side. I almost didn’t want it to be over so soon.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW | Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye
Think Hallmark Christmas movie, Black love, and a WHOLE lot of misunderstandings! This book gave me all the feels.
One of the things I loved most was the message about what home really means. This quote stuck with me:
“Sometimes coming home wasn’t about being shackled to the past, but rather, rewriting a new beginning of a new chapter.”
YES. Sometimes going back isn’t about living in the past—it’s about finally getting the chance to move forward. 🥹
I also LOVED the Black girl power throughout this book, especially in the workplace. Instead of giving us the stereotypical cutthroat corporate environment, we got Black women supporting Black women, giving each other grace, mentoring one another, and making room for the next woman to succeed.
“Black women loving on Black women and passing the torch.”
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Give me more of THIS in books!
And the relationships? I loved them. They felt genuine, warm, and full of love and not just the romantic relationships, but the friendships and connections throughout the story. You could really feel the love coming through the pages.
But …the misunderstandings! 😩 So many years lost because people weren’t having the conversations that needed to be had. This book was another reminder that sometimes one hard, uncomfortable conversation can clear up YEARS of hurt, assumptions, and missed opportunities.
Love Me Down to Christmas gave me Christmas coziness, Black love, Black girl power, second chances, family, forgiveness, and finding your way back home. 🎄❤️
Aries Skye definitely gave me my Black Hallmark Christmas movie and I would absolutely watch this one on screen!
Thank you for the ARC! 📚✨
Think Hallmark Christmas movie, Black love, and a WHOLE lot of misunderstandings! This book gave me all the feels.
One of the things I loved most was the message about what home really means. This quote stuck with me:
“Sometimes coming home wasn’t about being shackled to the past, but rather, rewriting a new beginning of a new chapter.”
YES. Sometimes going back isn’t about living in the past—it’s about finally getting the chance to move forward. 🥹
I also LOVED the Black girl power throughout this book, especially in the workplace. Instead of giving us the stereotypical cutthroat corporate environment, we got Black women supporting Black women, giving each other grace, mentoring one another, and making room for the next woman to succeed.
“Black women loving on Black women and passing the torch.”
👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾 Give me more of THIS in books!
And the relationships? I loved them. They felt genuine, warm, and full of love and not just the romantic relationships, but the friendships and connections throughout the story. You could really feel the love coming through the pages.
But …the misunderstandings! 😩 So many years lost because people weren’t having the conversations that needed to be had. This book was another reminder that sometimes one hard, uncomfortable conversation can clear up YEARS of hurt, assumptions, and missed opportunities.
Love Me Down to Christmas gave me Christmas coziness, Black love, Black girl power, second chances, family, forgiveness, and finding your way back home. 🎄❤️
Aries Skye definitely gave me my Black Hallmark Christmas movie and I would absolutely watch this one on screen!
Thank you for the ARC! 📚✨
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Metgalley for the advanced copy
Takeaway: A small‑town, second‑chance holiday romance that hits like hot cocoa with a shot of grown‑folk feelings.
Listen… I did not expect to be knee‑deep in a Christmas romance in August, but here we are and honestly, I’m not mad about it. Amariah and Jacob dragged me straight into their second‑chance mess, and I happily stayed for every slow‑burn, heart‑tugging moment.
Their childhood best‑friendship fell apart over one big misunderstanding, and when life throws them back together as adults, all that unresolved tension starts simmering again. And yes, it’s the kind of slow burn that makes you want to shake them and hug them at the same time.
The vibes? Angst, love, drama, understanding the full holiday platter. I loved watching them not just reunite, but actually work through their stuff like two people who want a real future, not just a cute moment under the mistletoe.
The Luke family and Jacob’s mom? Pure warmth. They were so accepting, so encouraging, and honestly gave the story that extra cozy layer that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile.
And let’s talk about the faith threads woven through the story soft, meaningful, and never preachy. It gave the book that Hallmark‑ish glow… but with a twist that makes it feel more grounded and grown.
By the end, this book had fully snatched my heart. Cozy, emotional, and perfect for holiday season even if you’re reading it in the middle of summer like me. Highly recommend.
Takeaway: A small‑town, second‑chance holiday romance that hits like hot cocoa with a shot of grown‑folk feelings.
Listen… I did not expect to be knee‑deep in a Christmas romance in August, but here we are and honestly, I’m not mad about it. Amariah and Jacob dragged me straight into their second‑chance mess, and I happily stayed for every slow‑burn, heart‑tugging moment.
Their childhood best‑friendship fell apart over one big misunderstanding, and when life throws them back together as adults, all that unresolved tension starts simmering again. And yes, it’s the kind of slow burn that makes you want to shake them and hug them at the same time.
The vibes? Angst, love, drama, understanding the full holiday platter. I loved watching them not just reunite, but actually work through their stuff like two people who want a real future, not just a cute moment under the mistletoe.
The Luke family and Jacob’s mom? Pure warmth. They were so accepting, so encouraging, and honestly gave the story that extra cozy layer that makes you want to curl up and stay awhile.
And let’s talk about the faith threads woven through the story soft, meaningful, and never preachy. It gave the book that Hallmark‑ish glow… but with a twist that makes it feel more grounded and grown.
By the end, this book had fully snatched my heart. Cozy, emotional, and perfect for holiday season even if you’re reading it in the middle of summer like me. Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Black Odyssey Publications and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for my honest review.
If you’re a fan of small-town romances, childhood best friends to lovers, and a slow-burn second chance romance, this one is definitely worth checking out.
I really enjoyed the emotional depth of this story and the history between the two main characters. Their journey felt authentic, and I appreciated how the author explored themes of healing, forgiveness, family, and the impact that time, life, and miscommunication can have on relationships.
This isn’t a fast-paced romance. It’s a gradual, character-driven story that takes its time rebuilding trust and allowing old feelings to resurface. If you’re someone who enjoys watching a relationship naturally unfold rather than happen overnight, I think you’ll appreciate the pacing.
The small-town setting added a cozy charm, making it the perfect romance to curl up with as the holiday season approaches. While there were moments I wished the characters had communicated better (I wanted to shake them a few times! 😂), that frustration also made their emotional journey feel realistic.
Overall, this was a heartfelt holiday romance with lovable characters, plenty of emotion, and a satisfying slow burn that romance readers will enjoy.
Tropes:
🎄 Holiday Romance
🏡 Small-Town Romance
💛 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance Romance
🐢 Slow Burn
❤️ Emotional Healing
If you’re a fan of small-town romances, childhood best friends to lovers, and a slow-burn second chance romance, this one is definitely worth checking out.
I really enjoyed the emotional depth of this story and the history between the two main characters. Their journey felt authentic, and I appreciated how the author explored themes of healing, forgiveness, family, and the impact that time, life, and miscommunication can have on relationships.
This isn’t a fast-paced romance. It’s a gradual, character-driven story that takes its time rebuilding trust and allowing old feelings to resurface. If you’re someone who enjoys watching a relationship naturally unfold rather than happen overnight, I think you’ll appreciate the pacing.
The small-town setting added a cozy charm, making it the perfect romance to curl up with as the holiday season approaches. While there were moments I wished the characters had communicated better (I wanted to shake them a few times! 😂), that frustration also made their emotional journey feel realistic.
Overall, this was a heartfelt holiday romance with lovable characters, plenty of emotion, and a satisfying slow burn that romance readers will enjoy.
Tropes:
🎄 Holiday Romance
🏡 Small-Town Romance
💛 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
✨ Second Chance Romance
🐢 Slow Burn
❤️ Emotional Healing
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a beautiful and heartwarming Christmas love story that stayed with me long after I turned the final page. Woven with themes of faith, hope, fear, and unconditional love, it offers so much more than just a sweet holiday romance. The story captures the magic of the Christmas season while reminding us that even during life's most uncertain moments, there is always room for healing, grace, and second chances.
The characters felt incredibly authentic, each carrying their own fears, doubts, and emotional burdens in a way that made them easy to connect with. Their struggles were genuine and relatable, and watching them grow through faith, trust, and love made their journey all the more meaningful. I found myself emotionally invested from beginning to end, celebrating their victories, feeling their heartbreak, and hoping for the happiness they so deeply deserved.
What I loved most was the message woven throughout the story—that hope can shine even in the darkest seasons, and that love, supported by faith, has the power to transform lives. It was uplifting without feeling overly sentimental and left me with a sense of peace and joy that perfectly reflects the spirit of Christmas.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this book and would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for an inspiring, holiday romance.
The characters felt incredibly authentic, each carrying their own fears, doubts, and emotional burdens in a way that made them easy to connect with. Their struggles were genuine and relatable, and watching them grow through faith, trust, and love made their journey all the more meaningful. I found myself emotionally invested from beginning to end, celebrating their victories, feeling their heartbreak, and hoping for the happiness they so deeply deserved.
What I loved most was the message woven throughout the story—that hope can shine even in the darkest seasons, and that love, supported by faith, has the power to transform lives. It was uplifting without feeling overly sentimental and left me with a sense of peace and joy that perfectly reflects the spirit of Christmas.
I truly enjoyed every moment of this book and would gladly recommend it to anyone looking for an inspiring, holiday romance.
July 29, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, Aries Skye and Black Odyssey Media for allowing me to ARC read ‘Love Me Down to Christmas.’
First: This book touches on some themes that could be taken as ‘triggering,’ so please read the content warnings for this book prior to reading if you think you’ll be affected.
This was the most heart-warming, beautifully written festive read. Such care has been taken to develop these characters and make them three-dimensional, and their development throughout the story was done so well.
Amariah and Jacob had the most exquisite chemistry, and I loved the development of their relationship.
The festive themes of this story made me feel so cozy, and I so wish I could jump right in and be a part of this gorgeous small town.
The story flowed well, I was never bored whilst reading, and the dual POV really worked well for these two characters.
For those wanting to know the spice level, it’s very minimal. There’s one steamy scene, but that’s about it. And it worked well for this kind of story, in my opinion.
This is going to be a great winter-y/ festive read that will no doubt warm your heart, as it did mine!
First: This book touches on some themes that could be taken as ‘triggering,’ so please read the content warnings for this book prior to reading if you think you’ll be affected.
This was the most heart-warming, beautifully written festive read. Such care has been taken to develop these characters and make them three-dimensional, and their development throughout the story was done so well.
Amariah and Jacob had the most exquisite chemistry, and I loved the development of their relationship.
The festive themes of this story made me feel so cozy, and I so wish I could jump right in and be a part of this gorgeous small town.
The story flowed well, I was never bored whilst reading, and the dual POV really worked well for these two characters.
For those wanting to know the spice level, it’s very minimal. There’s one steamy scene, but that’s about it. And it worked well for this kind of story, in my opinion.
This is going to be a great winter-y/ festive read that will no doubt warm your heart, as it did mine!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎄❤️ ARC REVIEW: Love Me Down To Christmas by Aries Skye ❤️🎄
I had the pleasure of reading Love Me Down To Christmas as an ARC, and BABY... this is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit! 🎅🏾✨
Cozy? ✔️
Romantic? ✔️
A little spice to keep you warm? ABSOLUTELY. 🔥
Listen, Hallmark movie but make it Black and put it in book form, and you have Love Me Down To Christmas. 🎄🏡❤️
Just when you think you know exactly how the FMC and MMC are going to make this work, Aries said, "Oh, you thought!" 😂 and threw in a curveball I definitely did NOT see coming.
And if you've read her other contemporary books, you already know she's going to give us that HEA, BUT first she's gonna stress us out with the miscommunication trope. 🤦🏾♀️ Like ma'am... JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER! 😂😂
But honestly, Aries has done it again. This was the perfect Christmas read with romance, warmth, drama, and just enough spice to keep things interesting.
By the time you finish, you'll be sitting there all warm, fuzzy, and ready for Christmas. 🎄❤️
If you're looking for a cozy Black holiday romance with a little spice, add this one to your Christmas TBR!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I had the pleasure of reading Love Me Down To Christmas as an ARC, and BABY... this is the perfect book to get you in the holiday spirit! 🎅🏾✨
Cozy? ✔️
Romantic? ✔️
A little spice to keep you warm? ABSOLUTELY. 🔥
Listen, Hallmark movie but make it Black and put it in book form, and you have Love Me Down To Christmas. 🎄🏡❤️
Just when you think you know exactly how the FMC and MMC are going to make this work, Aries said, "Oh, you thought!" 😂 and threw in a curveball I definitely did NOT see coming.
And if you've read her other contemporary books, you already know she's going to give us that HEA, BUT first she's gonna stress us out with the miscommunication trope. 🤦🏾♀️ Like ma'am... JUST TALK TO EACH OTHER! 😂😂
But honestly, Aries has done it again. This was the perfect Christmas read with romance, warmth, drama, and just enough spice to keep things interesting.
By the time you finish, you'll be sitting there all warm, fuzzy, and ready for Christmas. 🎄❤️
If you're looking for a cozy Black holiday romance with a little spice, add this one to your Christmas TBR!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye
First, thank you, Aries, for the opportunity to read this book in advance! ❤️
Looking for your next holiday read? 👀🎄
Love Me Down to Christmas gives Black Hallmark movie vibes, but in book form! 🥹❤️ It’s cozy, romantic, has the right amount of spice, and gives you all those warm holiday feels.
Amariah is back home for the holidays after her father’s health begins to decline. Being back in her small hometown means helping her parents, but it also means coming face-to-face with the one person she hasn’t seen or heard from in years—Jacob.
Amariah and Jacob have some unresolved issues between them, and life has a funny way of bringing people right back to where they started. 👀❤️ Watching them navigate their past, their feelings, and everything that comes with finding their way back to each other was such a sweet part of the story.
I really loved the faith-based theme woven throughout the book. 🙏🏽 The angst, love, lil drama, emotional healing, and romance all came together to give me the perfect holiday vibes. 🎄✨
If you’re looking for something cozy, romantic, faith-filled, and a little spicy to add to your holiday TBR, definitely check this one out! ❤️📚
Tropes:
🎄 Holiday Romance
🏡 Small Town Romance
💕 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
🔄 Second Chance Romance
🐢 Slow Burn
❤️🩹 Emotional Healing
First, thank you, Aries, for the opportunity to read this book in advance! ❤️
Looking for your next holiday read? 👀🎄
Love Me Down to Christmas gives Black Hallmark movie vibes, but in book form! 🥹❤️ It’s cozy, romantic, has the right amount of spice, and gives you all those warm holiday feels.
Amariah is back home for the holidays after her father’s health begins to decline. Being back in her small hometown means helping her parents, but it also means coming face-to-face with the one person she hasn’t seen or heard from in years—Jacob.
Amariah and Jacob have some unresolved issues between them, and life has a funny way of bringing people right back to where they started. 👀❤️ Watching them navigate their past, their feelings, and everything that comes with finding their way back to each other was such a sweet part of the story.
I really loved the faith-based theme woven throughout the book. 🙏🏽 The angst, love, lil drama, emotional healing, and romance all came together to give me the perfect holiday vibes. 🎄✨
If you’re looking for something cozy, romantic, faith-filled, and a little spicy to add to your holiday TBR, definitely check this one out! ❤️📚
Tropes:
🎄 Holiday Romance
🏡 Small Town Romance
💕 Childhood Best Friends to Lovers
🔄 Second Chance Romance
🐢 Slow Burn
❤️🩹 Emotional Healing
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, NetGalley, Aries Skye, and Black Odyssey Publishing for the Advance Reader's Copy. All thoughts and opinions are mine.
I am no stranger to Aries Skye’s work, but this is my first time reading her Christmas literary offering. She wrote a beautiful masterpiece that will stay in my head for a good while.
The book is engaging and carefully crafted for us holiday readers. I enjoyed this book immensely. Here's why.
The storyline and characters immediately hooked me, leaving me begging for more. The cadence of the storyline flowed smoothly, without interrupting my reading pace.
I was told that the novel would be “Hallmark-ish with spice". To me, it didn't seem that way. I appreciated it, honestly, because I was too wrapped up in Amariah and Jacob’s second-chance love story. The way it was written had this grump smiling from ear to ear.
I highly recommend everyone get and read this holiday-themed novel. There is hope and everlasting love written in those pages. Outstanding storytelling!
I am no stranger to Aries Skye’s work, but this is my first time reading her Christmas literary offering. She wrote a beautiful masterpiece that will stay in my head for a good while.
The book is engaging and carefully crafted for us holiday readers. I enjoyed this book immensely. Here's why.
The storyline and characters immediately hooked me, leaving me begging for more. The cadence of the storyline flowed smoothly, without interrupting my reading pace.
I was told that the novel would be “Hallmark-ish with spice". To me, it didn't seem that way. I appreciated it, honestly, because I was too wrapped up in Amariah and Jacob’s second-chance love story. The way it was written had this grump smiling from ear to ear.
I highly recommend everyone get and read this holiday-themed novel. There is hope and everlasting love written in those pages. Outstanding storytelling!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4⭐ First, thank you to Aries Skye for providing me with an advanced copy of Love Me Down to Christmas. Receiving an advance copy had absolutely no bearing on my rating or opinion. These thoughts are completely my own. 🤎
This was such a sweet way to step into the holiday season! Amariah and Jacob have the kind of history that makes a second-chance romance hit a little differently. Their friendship falling apart when they were younger and life bringing them back together as adults gave the story a nice emotional layer.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. It had the slow-burn, Christmas romance vibes I was looking for, but there was also some real emotion underneath it all. The themes of faith, forgiveness, healing, hope, and second chances gave the story more depth than your typical holiday romance.
Amariah and Jacob felt relatable in the way they carried their own fears and baggage, and I appreciated seeing them work through those things instead of everything magically falling into place.🎄❤️
This was such a sweet way to step into the holiday season! Amariah and Jacob have the kind of history that makes a second-chance romance hit a little differently. Their friendship falling apart when they were younger and life bringing them back together as adults gave the story a nice emotional layer.
I really enjoyed watching their relationship unfold. It had the slow-burn, Christmas romance vibes I was looking for, but there was also some real emotion underneath it all. The themes of faith, forgiveness, healing, hope, and second chances gave the story more depth than your typical holiday romance.
Amariah and Jacob felt relatable in the way they carried their own fears and baggage, and I appreciated seeing them work through those things instead of everything magically falling into place.🎄❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love Me Down to Christmas is such a cozy, feel-good Christmas read! The small-town setting of Skye Ridge, the Christmas traditions, and all that cozy holiday magic made me feel like I was right there. I could seriously see this being turned into a holiday movie.
The history between Amariah and Jacob made their relationship feel so much deeper than just two people falling for each other. I loved how the story balanced a sweet romance with deeper themes of family, healing, forgiveness, second chances, and figuring out whether the life you've built is really the life your heart wants.
Amariah had some things she needed to work through, and I enjoyed seeing her slowly let her guard down and allow herself to feel the things she had been running from. And Jacob? I loved watching him try to win her back one Christmas memory at a time.
Grab a blanket and a mug of your favorite hot beverage (spiked if that’s how you get down 😏) and settle in for this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The history between Amariah and Jacob made their relationship feel so much deeper than just two people falling for each other. I loved how the story balanced a sweet romance with deeper themes of family, healing, forgiveness, second chances, and figuring out whether the life you've built is really the life your heart wants.
Amariah had some things she needed to work through, and I enjoyed seeing her slowly let her guard down and allow herself to feel the things she had been running from. And Jacob? I loved watching him try to win her back one Christmas memory at a time.
Grab a blanket and a mug of your favorite hot beverage (spiked if that’s how you get down 😏) and settle in for this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for the opportunity to read and review this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 3, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and Black Odyssey Media for the ARC of Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye.
Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye was such a beautiful and heartwarming Christmas read! This is the fourth book I’ve read by Aries Skye, and once again, she did not disappoint.
I really enjoyed the themes of second-chance love, forgiveness, grief, healing, and family woven throughout Amariah and Jacob’s story. Their journey back to one another was sweet, emotional, and full of those cozy holiday moments that make a Christmas romance so enjoyable. And I have to say, this was way better than any Hallmark Christmas movie! 🎄❤️
I’ve also had the pleasure of meeting Aries twice, and she is such a sweetheart. I absolutely love when authors genuinely interact with and show appreciation for their readers, and Aries definitely does that.
If you’re looking for a cozy holiday romance filled with love, family, healing, and second chances, this is a wonderful one to add to your Christmas reading list. 🎄📚❤️
Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye was such a beautiful and heartwarming Christmas read! This is the fourth book I’ve read by Aries Skye, and once again, she did not disappoint.
I really enjoyed the themes of second-chance love, forgiveness, grief, healing, and family woven throughout Amariah and Jacob’s story. Their journey back to one another was sweet, emotional, and full of those cozy holiday moments that make a Christmas romance so enjoyable. And I have to say, this was way better than any Hallmark Christmas movie! 🎄❤️
I’ve also had the pleasure of meeting Aries twice, and she is such a sweetheart. I absolutely love when authors genuinely interact with and show appreciation for their readers, and Aries definitely does that.
If you’re looking for a cozy holiday romance filled with love, family, healing, and second chances, this is a wonderful one to add to your Christmas reading list. 🎄📚❤️
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Love Me Down to Christmas by Aries Skye was the perfect book to kick off the holiday reading season. This is a cozy, second-chance holiday romance. The only things I was missing were a cup of hot chocolate and some snow.
This small-town romance follows Amariah and Jacob during their holiday reunion. Our FMC, Amariah, leaves DC and returns to her hometown of Skye Ridge to nurse her ailing father. While there, she helps with her family’s failing hardware store. This is where our MMC, Jacob, enters the story.
Christmas, a small town, and two hearts that never stopped loving make the perfect setting for a holiday love story. I also loved the threads of faith woven throughout this romance. However, the lack of communication between the main characters made me want to shake them a time or five.
This was my first Aries Skye book, and it will not be my last. Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC.
This small-town romance follows Amariah and Jacob during their holiday reunion. Our FMC, Amariah, leaves DC and returns to her hometown of Skye Ridge to nurse her ailing father. While there, she helps with her family’s failing hardware store. This is where our MMC, Jacob, enters the story.
Christmas, a small town, and two hearts that never stopped loving make the perfect setting for a holiday love story. I also loved the threads of faith woven throughout this romance. However, the lack of communication between the main characters made me want to shake them a time or five.
This was my first Aries Skye book, and it will not be my last. Thank you, NetGalley, for this ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Down To Christmas follows Amariah and Jacob through a journey of what it truly looks like to rebuild a friendship after mistakes and miscommunication while leaning on trust and love.
This book sucked me in from the first chapter and it never let me go. I love a good romance that makes you feel ALL the feels and this books does just that. There are so many gems and touching moments in this book. I literally had to wipe away my tears a few times, but I was always giggling a few moments later.
Reading some of the scenes I felt like I was there. This could truly be made into a Hallmark Christmas movie and I would watch it over and over again!!
There were also a lot of quotable moments, but this is one of my favorites, it spoke to my soul “Friendship isn’t a substitute for a relationship; it’s a condition of one.”
Thank you to Aries Skye for providing me with an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
This book sucked me in from the first chapter and it never let me go. I love a good romance that makes you feel ALL the feels and this books does just that. There are so many gems and touching moments in this book. I literally had to wipe away my tears a few times, but I was always giggling a few moments later.
Reading some of the scenes I felt like I was there. This could truly be made into a Hallmark Christmas movie and I would watch it over and over again!!
There were also a lot of quotable moments, but this is one of my favorites, it spoke to my soul “Friendship isn’t a substitute for a relationship; it’s a condition of one.”
Thank you to Aries Skye for providing me with an advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love Me Down To Christmas by Aries Skye 🎄❤️
Amariah coming back home to Skyeville definitely brought her face-to-face with more than she expected! What started as her returning home to be there for her father turned into reconnecting with Jacob, her high school best friend who clearly had some unresolved feelings about the way things ended between them.
I really enjoyed watching these two finally have the conversations they should’ve had YEARS ago because baby… Jacob had been holding onto some feelings! 😂 Once everything was out in the open though, their friendship naturally turning into something more was so sweet. This was a cute, cozy second-chance holiday romance with a little bit of hurt, healing, and finally getting the love that had been there all along. 🎄❤️
Thank you Aries Skye for the ARC! 🫶🏽
Amariah coming back home to Skyeville definitely brought her face-to-face with more than she expected! What started as her returning home to be there for her father turned into reconnecting with Jacob, her high school best friend who clearly had some unresolved feelings about the way things ended between them.
I really enjoyed watching these two finally have the conversations they should’ve had YEARS ago because baby… Jacob had been holding onto some feelings! 😂 Once everything was out in the open though, their friendship naturally turning into something more was so sweet. This was a cute, cozy second-chance holiday romance with a little bit of hurt, healing, and finally getting the love that had been there all along. 🎄❤️
Thank you Aries Skye for the ARC! 🫶🏽
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I started Love Me Down to Christmas at 10 PM, and here I am at 3:45 AM because apparently sleep was optional after chapter one! 😂 And after this book let it be known the countdown to Christmas officially on!
As a lover of Christmas, this book was everything. It gave me Hallmark vibes, but with the spice&culture I've always needed.
What really made this story stand out was the way grief, second chances, family legacy, and love deferred were woven throughout the story. There was so much heart beneath the Christmas magic, and I loved watching these themes come together.
This book gave me cozy holiday vibes, romance, family, emotion, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. If you love Christmas romances with heart, culture, and a little heat, add this one to your holiday TBR! 🎄📚❤️🔥
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
As a lover of Christmas, this book was everything. It gave me Hallmark vibes, but with the spice&culture I've always needed.
What really made this story stand out was the way grief, second chances, family legacy, and love deferred were woven throughout the story. There was so much heart beneath the Christmas magic, and I loved watching these themes come together.
This book gave me cozy holiday vibes, romance, family, emotion, and just enough spice to keep things interesting. If you love Christmas romances with heart, culture, and a little heat, add this one to your holiday TBR! 🎄📚❤️🔥
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and Black Odyssey Publishing for the Advance Reader's Copy.
This was such a fun and cozy Christmas story. I truly enjoyed reading Amariah and Jacob's journey back to each other. The small town feel and the sense of family throughout gave me all the feels, it really had that Hallmark movie warmth to it. Watching them both commit to bringing their second chance at love back together was so heartwarming, especially with her father's illness adding real emotional weight to why she came home in the first place.
This was my into into Aries Skye work and she did not disappoint. Aries did a great job blending the nostalgia of first love with the comfort of a holiday romance. If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt second chance story to close out your Christmas TBR, this one delivers.
This was such a fun and cozy Christmas story. I truly enjoyed reading Amariah and Jacob's journey back to each other. The small town feel and the sense of family throughout gave me all the feels, it really had that Hallmark movie warmth to it. Watching them both commit to bringing their second chance at love back together was so heartwarming, especially with her father's illness adding real emotional weight to why she came home in the first place.
This was my into into Aries Skye work and she did not disappoint. Aries did a great job blending the nostalgia of first love with the comfort of a holiday romance. If you're looking for a sweet, heartfelt second chance story to close out your Christmas TBR, this one delivers.
September 9, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’m usually not a huge fan of holiday romances because they can sometimes come across as cheesy, but the description of Love Me Down to Christmas drew me in—and I was not disappointed!
This book has a little something for every romance reader: frenemies, miscommunication, second chances, and all the warmth and coziness of the holiday season. I especially enjoyed how Christmas was woven into the story as the main characters found their way back to each other and redefined their love.
This was a warm, feel-good romance that made me want to lean a little closer to my people.
A cozy holiday romance worth adding to your TBR!
Thank you to Black Odyssey Media and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
I’m usually not a huge fan of holiday romances because they can sometimes come across as cheesy, but the description of Love Me Down to Christmas drew me in—and I was not disappointed!
This book has a little something for every romance reader: frenemies, miscommunication, second chances, and all the warmth and coziness of the holiday season. I especially enjoyed how Christmas was woven into the story as the main characters found their way back to each other and redefined their love.
This was a warm, feel-good romance that made me want to lean a little closer to my people.
A cozy holiday romance worth adding to your TBR!
Thank you to Black Odyssey Media and NetGalley for providing me with an advance copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎄It’s not Christmas yet, but it’s about time to start planning for this upcoming holiday season.
📖 Love Me Down to Christmas releases September 29th.
✨This was a whimsical, quick read. Using Christmas and small town family dynamics as the backdrop for second chance romance, Aries Skye wrapped these two main characters in a blanket of love, vulnerability, and holiday cheer.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
💬“No one cares how smart you are if they can’t stand you”
💬“And remember, breathe in positivity…Breathe out bullshitivity”
💬“Showing up for someone means being there for them how they need you….”
🙏🏿Thank you Black Odyssey Media for proving me an ARC to enjoy!
📖 Love Me Down to Christmas releases September 29th.
✨This was a whimsical, quick read. Using Christmas and small town family dynamics as the backdrop for second chance romance, Aries Skye wrapped these two main characters in a blanket of love, vulnerability, and holiday cheer.
Here are some of my favorite quotes:
💬“No one cares how smart you are if they can’t stand you”
💬“And remember, breathe in positivity…Breathe out bullshitivity”
💬“Showing up for someone means being there for them how they need you….”
🙏🏿Thank you Black Odyssey Media for proving me an ARC to enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, NetGalley, Aries Skye, and Black Odyssey Publishing for the Advance Reader's Copy. These are my opinions .
Love me Down to Christmas captured you from the first page. Young love, and then tragedy struck.
Jacob. Definitely a book bae. I appreciate his forgiveness towards Amariah. Because I would have NOT.
Amariah was all over the place, a bad communicator, anxious, controlling, but a stint in her small town was exactly what her nervousness system and heart needed.
This is the type of second chance romance I can handle. I feel like sooo many stories can come from this novel. I look forward to what’s next from this author.
Love me Down to Christmas captured you from the first page. Young love, and then tragedy struck.
Jacob. Definitely a book bae. I appreciate his forgiveness towards Amariah. Because I would have NOT.
Amariah was all over the place, a bad communicator, anxious, controlling, but a stint in her small town was exactly what her nervousness system and heart needed.
This is the type of second chance romance I can handle. I feel like sooo many stories can come from this novel. I look forward to what’s next from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Review 📚| Available Now🎄
This was such a cute Christmas ⛄ story! Think Hallmark stories but make it Black ✊🏾! Aries, has provided the right amount of spice that makes everything nice 🙂↕️.
I also appreciate the character development and the relationship building (including friendships) it added the necessary depth to this warm cozy vibe that we witness throughout the book.
Now there is some miscommunication💬 and misunderstanding (because WE are not communicating 😂) that made me yell at my Kindle but it's worth the little stress.
Thank you so much @ariesskye_ for the ARC opportunity and I look forward to the next read! 🥰
This was such a cute Christmas ⛄ story! Think Hallmark stories but make it Black ✊🏾! Aries, has provided the right amount of spice that makes everything nice 🙂↕️.
I also appreciate the character development and the relationship building (including friendships) it added the necessary depth to this warm cozy vibe that we witness throughout the book.
Now there is some miscommunication💬 and misunderstanding (because WE are not communicating 😂) that made me yell at my Kindle but it's worth the little stress.
Thank you so much @ariesskye_ for the ARC opportunity and I look forward to the next read! 🥰
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you, NetGalley, for the advanced copy
Amariah and Jacob really took me on a roller coaster of emotions. One thing I can say for sure is that the love was always present and felt throughout the pages
Small town, second chance, holiday romance, this book was refreshing, real, and relatable, with just a sprinkle of magic. By the end of the book, you truly feel like you’ve won alongside the characters.
You will most definitely not regret taking the scenic route these two went on. You’re going to laugh, cry, and probably want to reach into the book and smack some people . But I promise, it’s all worth it
Amariah and Jacob really took me on a roller coaster of emotions. One thing I can say for sure is that the love was always present and felt throughout the pages
Small town, second chance, holiday romance, this book was refreshing, real, and relatable, with just a sprinkle of magic. By the end of the book, you truly feel like you’ve won alongside the characters.
You will most definitely not regret taking the scenic route these two went on. You’re going to laugh, cry, and probably want to reach into the book and smack some people . But I promise, it’s all worth it
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for this advance copy! The prologue gave great details of what was to come in this book. Friends to lovers but the loving came much later after years of misunderstandings. Amariah and Jacob grew up together as friends but deep down there was an attraction neither spoke us. Both are headed to college, but after a tragic incident their paths change. Amariah comes home due to her dad's illness to find Jacob in a way she least expected. The love is still there but what happened during their time apart proves that communication is key. I enjoyed the small town closeness and the nostalgia of the holidays.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Christmas came a little early because now THIS is how you do a Christmas second-chance romance.
This book had me ready to book a little mountain getaway, find some snow, grab some spiked cocoa, and get ALL the Christmas feels. Sweet, nostalgic, a little spicy, with a little pop-up twist and that “you’ve always been my person” kind of love.
I loved the holiday countdown, all the little memories, and watching Jacob remind Amariah why they fell in love in the first place.
Jacob said he was NOT fumbling his woman twice, and Amariah girl you better get your mannnnnn.
This book had me ready to book a little mountain getaway, find some snow, grab some spiked cocoa, and get ALL the Christmas feels. Sweet, nostalgic, a little spicy, with a little pop-up twist and that “you’ve always been my person” kind of love.
I loved the holiday countdown, all the little memories, and watching Jacob remind Amariah why they fell in love in the first place.
Jacob said he was NOT fumbling his woman twice, and Amariah girl you better get your mannnnnn.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was beautiful 🥹 The emotions I went through reading this were intense. From confusion, anger, heartbreak and joy. This truly was a perfect holiday (in this case Christmas is July) read. Amariah and Jacob's story was rooted in love and heartache. And you felt all of it with every page.
Thank you Netgalley and Black Odyssey Media for this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Thank you Netgalley and Black Odyssey Media for this advance readers copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Note: This book was recieved as an ARC from Black Odyssey via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
The story of Amariah and Jacob is one butil on childhood best friendship that dissolved on a misundertanding. When life brought them back together in adulhood, they are forced to face the unresolved. This slow burn Christmas story gives everything that a classic tale should. There is angst, love, drama, and understanding. I enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
The story of Amariah and Jacob is one butil on childhood best friendship that dissolved on a misundertanding. When life brought them back together in adulhood, they are forced to face the unresolved. This slow burn Christmas story gives everything that a classic tale should. There is angst, love, drama, and understanding. I enjoyed this book from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Advanced Reader Copy Review!
Thank you so much to @AriesSkye_ and Black Odessy Media and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy. I loved this book. Mari and Jacob’s story hit so close to home. I loved the tension that built and their connection could really be felt through the pages. Christmas is my favorite holiday and this book felt like the happiest Christmas Day. This is the perfect holiday read. Release date is 9/29/26 and you definitely want to read this!
Thank you so much to @AriesSkye_ and Black Odessy Media and Netgalley for the advanced reader copy. I loved this book. Mari and Jacob’s story hit so close to home. I loved the tension that built and their connection could really be felt through the pages. Christmas is my favorite holiday and this book felt like the happiest Christmas Day. This is the perfect holiday read. Release date is 9/29/26 and you definitely want to read this!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
ARC Review: WOW ! This book was a story of redemption, forgiveness, love, grief , second chances, faith, and courage. Amariah and Jacob had some unsolved issues that needed to be fixed , but it took a lot of courage on both parts to do it. This story was beautifully written and unpredictable. There were a lot of lessons to learn, many of them that we can apply to real life. It was just the reminder I needed for real life. Everyday miracles are happening!
Review of advance copy received from Author
A heartfelt story rooted in faith, hope, fear, and love. The characters felt authentic, their struggles were relatable, and the emotional journey kept me invested from beginning to end. It’s a beautiful reminder that even in our most uncertain moments, hope and love can carry us through. I truly enjoyed this read and look forward to seeing what the AS writes next.
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