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Calm the Carols
320 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 10, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
July 8, 2026
4.5 stars. This book was absolutely adorable! I loved the unique synopsis. I have never read another book like it. It was the right mix of real story and romance and even though the roommate angle can be overplayed this one worked perfectly.
The twist was good and the ending, although a little messy, pulled the whole story together.
The twist was good and the ending, although a little messy, pulled the whole story together.
July 18, 2026
It took me a little while to get invested in this one. I had a harder time connecting with Lily, which makes sense since her experiences and perspective are very different from my own. What kept me reading was Rowland. His personality, humor, and unwavering support slowly helped Lily come out of her shell, and watching their relationship grow was incredibly rewarding.
I’m so glad I stuck with it because this turned out to be a wonderful read. It offers meaningful insight into some of the challenges autistic individuals face while also highlighting the importance of understanding, patience, and support from those who are neurotypical. The happily-ever-after was heartwarming, and I loved the glimpse into their future in the epilogue.
I’m so glad I stuck with it because this turned out to be a wonderful read. It offers meaningful insight into some of the challenges autistic individuals face while also highlighting the importance of understanding, patience, and support from those who are neurotypical. The happily-ever-after was heartwarming, and I loved the glimpse into their future in the epilogue.
July 9, 2026
4.5 Stars!!
This was such a sweet and heartwarming story! I absolutely loved both the FMC and MMC. I enjoyed their antics with the holiday bucket list (or f*** it list as Lily would say) and loved seeing how their relationship progressed.
The humor made me giggle and the character growth was great. There was just the right amount of holiday vibes mixed in too. I also enjoyed getting to read a story from the perspective of someone living with autism and it was done so well.
This author was new-to-me about a month ago and now I’ve read 2 of her 3 books within a month and loved both! Definitely need to add her to your radar if you haven’t read any of her books yet!
This was such a sweet and heartwarming story! I absolutely loved both the FMC and MMC. I enjoyed their antics with the holiday bucket list (or f*** it list as Lily would say) and loved seeing how their relationship progressed.
The humor made me giggle and the character growth was great. There was just the right amount of holiday vibes mixed in too. I also enjoyed getting to read a story from the perspective of someone living with autism and it was done so well.
This author was new-to-me about a month ago and now I’ve read 2 of her 3 books within a month and loved both! Definitely need to add her to your radar if you haven’t read any of her books yet!
July 31, 2026
I love a holiday romance!
This was so delicious to read in a heatwave in July — the cozy holiday vibes made this such a comfort read. Add in a very lovable MMC and an FMC who portrays her autism with such care and consideration. This is my third read from Adeline and I think my favorite. I tend to like higher stakes and spice typically, but the charm of her books is undeniable and I’ll read anything she puts out.
This was so delicious to read in a heatwave in July — the cozy holiday vibes made this such a comfort read. Add in a very lovable MMC and an FMC who portrays her autism with such care and consideration. This is my third read from Adeline and I think my favorite. I tend to like higher stakes and spice typically, but the charm of her books is undeniable and I’ll read anything she puts out.
July 13, 2026
This is such a different book especially for a christmas book! All about lily who has a form of autism and getting some insight into her brain and how she functions for work as well as love. I was so hooked i couldn't stop reading this every night before bed!!
Lily is amazing, shes so smart and such an incredible person and her friendship with Carmen and her group chat is such perfection. They are all so supportive and honest with her. Gives her the advice she needs, not what she's asking for and we all could really use more friends like that.
Rowland is such an amazing MMC, hes a happy ball of sunshine rolled into a super kind man. Hes exactly what Lily needs to be herself which i love for her. He gives her space to be her, as friends, as roomates and as a lover.
UGH loved it so much. Please read it 😭😭
Lily is amazing, shes so smart and such an incredible person and her friendship with Carmen and her group chat is such perfection. They are all so supportive and honest with her. Gives her the advice she needs, not what she's asking for and we all could really use more friends like that.
Rowland is such an amazing MMC, hes a happy ball of sunshine rolled into a super kind man. Hes exactly what Lily needs to be herself which i love for her. He gives her space to be her, as friends, as roomates and as a lover.
UGH loved it so much. Please read it 😭😭
July 10, 2026
If you’re looking for a cute holiday romance with plenty of spunk, this is the book for you! I absolutely loved the inclusivity woven throughout the story, and the romance was everything I hoped it would be.
Adeline has such a gift for writing characters that make you laugh out loud while also delivering the kind of heartfelt moments that leave you smiling long after you’ve finished reading. Watching Lily, the main character, grow throughout the story was so enjoyable, and her journey felt authentic and rewarding.
And the banter? Top-tier! I’m always a sucker for witty back-and-forth, and this book delivered.
I also thought this was such a fresh and unique take on a holiday romance. It stood out from others in the genre while still giving all the cozy, heartwarming vibes I wanted. I can’t wait to read whatever Adeline writes next…as always, she didn’t disappoint!
Adeline has such a gift for writing characters that make you laugh out loud while also delivering the kind of heartfelt moments that leave you smiling long after you’ve finished reading. Watching Lily, the main character, grow throughout the story was so enjoyable, and her journey felt authentic and rewarding.
And the banter? Top-tier! I’m always a sucker for witty back-and-forth, and this book delivered.
I also thought this was such a fresh and unique take on a holiday romance. It stood out from others in the genre while still giving all the cozy, heartwarming vibes I wanted. I can’t wait to read whatever Adeline writes next…as always, she didn’t disappoint!
June 23, 2026
What to expect: reverse grumpy sunshine, tech CEO FMC, coffee whiz entrepreneur MMC, forced proximity, roommate contract, bucket list, slow burn, autism rep, single POC
Another solid book from Adeline Aimes! I’m always so excited to read a new book by Adeline, and this one did not disappoint. 💗
Calm the Carols is funny and heartfelt with incredibly relatable characters. This book is different in a fun way, especially with the holiday roommates contract/bucket list theme. The autism representation was phenomenal. I loved getting both perspectives while reading this story, seeing both how someone lives with autism and how someone loves someone with autism. The supporting characters are great too, and while I’m not usually a cat person, I really grew to love Merlot.😉
Lily and Rowland have the best black cat/golden retriever energy. They’re complete opposites, but that’s what makes their banter and sarcasm so enjoyable. I was laughing out loud at their adventures and also giddy waiting for them to fully admit their feelings for each other. Their support of each other's dreams and how they grow through their relationship played out beautifully. Their story is a SLOW burn, but it's so worth it.
Adeline’s writing is absolutely incredible. She immerses her readers into stories that are funny, emotional, and that give different (and fresh) perspectives. Calm the Carols is easily a 5 star read for me. I loved the writing, plot, and pacing, and I HIGHLY recommend adding this book to your TBR! Who doesn’t love a little holiday cheer in the summertime?!?!🎄❤️
Another solid book from Adeline Aimes! I’m always so excited to read a new book by Adeline, and this one did not disappoint. 💗
Calm the Carols is funny and heartfelt with incredibly relatable characters. This book is different in a fun way, especially with the holiday roommates contract/bucket list theme. The autism representation was phenomenal. I loved getting both perspectives while reading this story, seeing both how someone lives with autism and how someone loves someone with autism. The supporting characters are great too, and while I’m not usually a cat person, I really grew to love Merlot.😉
Lily and Rowland have the best black cat/golden retriever energy. They’re complete opposites, but that’s what makes their banter and sarcasm so enjoyable. I was laughing out loud at their adventures and also giddy waiting for them to fully admit their feelings for each other. Their support of each other's dreams and how they grow through their relationship played out beautifully. Their story is a SLOW burn, but it's so worth it.
Adeline’s writing is absolutely incredible. She immerses her readers into stories that are funny, emotional, and that give different (and fresh) perspectives. Calm the Carols is easily a 5 star read for me. I loved the writing, plot, and pacing, and I HIGHLY recommend adding this book to your TBR! Who doesn’t love a little holiday cheer in the summertime?!?!🎄❤️
June 19, 2026
404 Error: Holiday Cheer Found
“𝐹𝑜𝓇 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝓌𝑜𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝑒𝒹 𝓌𝒽𝓎 𝒾𝓉 𝒻𝑒𝓁𝓉 𝓈𝑜 𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒹, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝓁𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓃𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝑜 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝒾𝓉 𝓁𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓎.”
Black Cat: Lily. My girl. I adore everything about her. My favorite little tech wizard. She’s not a bad person, she just doesn’t do…people. She taught herself how to mask when she was young and has since mastered the art. (Same, girl, same.)
“𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙙𝙣’𝙩.”
Golden Retriever: Rowland is fantastic. No, seriously. He’s every neurodivergent girls nightmare turned daydream. He’s happy go lucky and doesn’t let his traumas hold him back. He’s a real go-getter. And understanding. And kind. And happy. And hot. (I married this guy in real life, by the way.)
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬. 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘦. 𝘖𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘥. 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦.”
Pit Bull: I love Carmen. She’s fierce and protective but doesn’t overdo any of it. I love Carmen because she reminds me of my Rachelle. When I’m melting down or panicking, I call her and she sets me straight. Annnnd she knows when I go ghost, there’s a reason — so she pesters me out of my dark hole. She even makes sure I eat when I’m busy and gets onto me when I forget. 🤣
When I say this book is relatable, I mean it’s my life. (I’m not a tech wizard, I got the Doctor Who side of this.) And it’s so incredibly well written.
“𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀…𝗜 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻’𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁.”
•••••
You guys need to slam this into your holiday “fuckit list” reads hard and fast. And gift it to your spicy friends. 🎁 Check that out, your shopping can be done already.
“𝐹𝑜𝓇 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓁𝒾𝓉𝓉𝓁𝑒 𝑔𝒾𝓇𝓁 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝓌𝑜𝓃𝒹𝑒𝓇𝑒𝒹 𝓌𝒽𝓎 𝒾𝓉 𝒻𝑒𝓁𝓉 𝓈𝑜 𝒽𝒶𝓇𝒹, 𝒶𝓃𝒹 𝒻𝑜𝓇 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓌𝑜𝓂𝒶𝓃 𝓌𝒽𝑜 𝓁𝑒𝒶𝓇𝓃𝑒𝒹 𝓉𝑜 𝓂𝒶𝓀𝑒 𝒾𝓉 𝓁𝑜𝑜𝓀 𝑒𝒶𝓈𝓎.”
Black Cat: Lily. My girl. I adore everything about her. My favorite little tech wizard. She’s not a bad person, she just doesn’t do…people. She taught herself how to mask when she was young and has since mastered the art. (Same, girl, same.)
“𝙏𝙤𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣, 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙮𝙤𝙪’𝙡𝙡 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙙𝙣’𝙩.”
Golden Retriever: Rowland is fantastic. No, seriously. He’s every neurodivergent girls nightmare turned daydream. He’s happy go lucky and doesn’t let his traumas hold him back. He’s a real go-getter. And understanding. And kind. And happy. And hot. (I married this guy in real life, by the way.)
“𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘰𝘯’𝘵 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘬. 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘤𝘳𝘪𝘣𝘦. 𝘖𝘶𝘵 𝘭𝘰𝘶𝘥. 𝘖𝘯𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘢𝘵 𝘢 𝘵𝘪𝘮𝘦.”
Pit Bull: I love Carmen. She’s fierce and protective but doesn’t overdo any of it. I love Carmen because she reminds me of my Rachelle. When I’m melting down or panicking, I call her and she sets me straight. Annnnd she knows when I go ghost, there’s a reason — so she pesters me out of my dark hole. She even makes sure I eat when I’m busy and gets onto me when I forget. 🤣
When I say this book is relatable, I mean it’s my life. (I’m not a tech wizard, I got the Doctor Who side of this.) And it’s so incredibly well written.
“𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗳𝗲𝗲𝗹𝘀 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗴𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲 𝘁𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗳𝗲𝘀𝘀…𝗜 𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗹 𝗵𝗮𝘃𝗲𝗻’𝘁 𝗿𝗲𝗮𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗿𝗼𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗰𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁.”
•••••
You guys need to slam this into your holiday “fuckit list” reads hard and fast. And gift it to your spicy friends. 🎁 Check that out, your shopping can be done already.
Review of advance copy received from Author
✨🎄 5⭐️ REVIEW | Calm the Carols by Adeline Aimes 🎄✨
What happens when an autistic woman who hates the holidays and any large gathering and a hot, cheerful, golden retriever type man are thrown into each other's orbit during the holidays?...They make a F@ck-it list of course 🤪Calm the Carols is a heartwarming, emotional romance filled with genuine representation, meaningful character growth, adorable banter, and a slow-burning love story that proves understanding and acceptance can change everything. ❤️🎁
I tend to be a tough critic, especially when it comes to newer or indie authors, so handing out 5 stars is never something I do lightly. But Calm the Carols absolutely earned every single one. 🌟
As the parent of some neurodivergent adults—one of whom is on the autism spectrum just like our FMC—this story hit me on such a personal level. What impressed me most was how authentic everything felt. Adeline Aimes drew from her own lived experiences, conversations, and feelings when creating this character, and you can truly feel that on every page. The FMC's thoughts, reactions, and way of interpreting the world never felt exaggerated or written for effect—they felt real. I loved experiencing the world through her perspective. It wasn't forced or performative; it was honest, heartfelt, and beautifully written.
Watching Lily and Rowland navigate their differences while learning to communicate, trust, and support one another had me completely invested. Their cute banter had me smiling, the slow burn kept me eagerly turning pages, and the forced proximity created so many tender, memorable moments. By the end, I was completely rooting for them—and I may have actually cheered when they finally got their happily ever after. 🥹❤️
One of my favorite parts of this novel is how it beautifully demonstrates that neurotypical and neurodivergent people can build healthy, loving relationships. They can work together, live together, respect one another, and embrace each other's unique strengths instead of trying to change them. It's a message delivered with so much compassion and hope.
If you're looking for a romance that is full of heart, authentic neurodivergent representation, emotional depth, and characters you'll be thinking about long after you finish, this needs to be on your TBR.
🏃♀️💨 If you haven't read this book yet, I am begging you to run and pre-order it before its July 10th publication day! Trust me—this is one you'll want to experience from day one.
🎄 Forced Proximity ❤️ Slow Burn Romance 🧩 Neurodivergent FMC 💬 Cute Banter
☀️ Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine 🤍 Emotional Growth 🥰 Happily Ever After
Thank you to the author for this amazing ARC. I hope she keeps me on her list for any future books.
What happens when an autistic woman who hates the holidays and any large gathering and a hot, cheerful, golden retriever type man are thrown into each other's orbit during the holidays?...They make a F@ck-it list of course 🤪Calm the Carols is a heartwarming, emotional romance filled with genuine representation, meaningful character growth, adorable banter, and a slow-burning love story that proves understanding and acceptance can change everything. ❤️🎁
I tend to be a tough critic, especially when it comes to newer or indie authors, so handing out 5 stars is never something I do lightly. But Calm the Carols absolutely earned every single one. 🌟
As the parent of some neurodivergent adults—one of whom is on the autism spectrum just like our FMC—this story hit me on such a personal level. What impressed me most was how authentic everything felt. Adeline Aimes drew from her own lived experiences, conversations, and feelings when creating this character, and you can truly feel that on every page. The FMC's thoughts, reactions, and way of interpreting the world never felt exaggerated or written for effect—they felt real. I loved experiencing the world through her perspective. It wasn't forced or performative; it was honest, heartfelt, and beautifully written.
Watching Lily and Rowland navigate their differences while learning to communicate, trust, and support one another had me completely invested. Their cute banter had me smiling, the slow burn kept me eagerly turning pages, and the forced proximity created so many tender, memorable moments. By the end, I was completely rooting for them—and I may have actually cheered when they finally got their happily ever after. 🥹❤️
One of my favorite parts of this novel is how it beautifully demonstrates that neurotypical and neurodivergent people can build healthy, loving relationships. They can work together, live together, respect one another, and embrace each other's unique strengths instead of trying to change them. It's a message delivered with so much compassion and hope.
If you're looking for a romance that is full of heart, authentic neurodivergent representation, emotional depth, and characters you'll be thinking about long after you finish, this needs to be on your TBR.
🏃♀️💨 If you haven't read this book yet, I am begging you to run and pre-order it before its July 10th publication day! Trust me—this is one you'll want to experience from day one.
🎄 Forced Proximity ❤️ Slow Burn Romance 🧩 Neurodivergent FMC 💬 Cute Banter
☀️ Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine 🤍 Emotional Growth 🥰 Happily Ever After
Thank you to the author for this amazing ARC. I hope she keeps me on her list for any future books.
July 14, 2026
Calm the Carols is my favorite Adeline Aimes book to date, and that's saying something because I've loved every one of her books.
One of the things I admire most about Adeline's writing is how she naturally weaves education into her stories. Through her characters, she has helped me better understand autism and neurodivergence, and that is truly priceless. Her books remind me that everyone experiences the world differently, and she presents those perspectives with compassion, authenticity, and heart.
This book had me laughing out loud (especially Chapter 15!), swooning over Rowland, and completely invested in the slow burn. The pacing was perfection. I spent most of the book grinning like a fool, and there were more than a few moments where I had to hug the book while trying to catch my breath.
The relationship between Lily and Rowland felt incredibly real. Their patience, understanding, and willingness to meet each other where they were made every interaction meaningful. They complemented one another beautifully, not because either of them changed who they were, but because they accepted and appreciated each other exactly as they were.
This story was funny, heartfelt, romantic, and unforgettable. If you're looking for a slow-burn romance with authentic characters, emotional depth, and plenty of moments that will make your heart happy, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
One of the things I admire most about Adeline's writing is how she naturally weaves education into her stories. Through her characters, she has helped me better understand autism and neurodivergence, and that is truly priceless. Her books remind me that everyone experiences the world differently, and she presents those perspectives with compassion, authenticity, and heart.
This book had me laughing out loud (especially Chapter 15!), swooning over Rowland, and completely invested in the slow burn. The pacing was perfection. I spent most of the book grinning like a fool, and there were more than a few moments where I had to hug the book while trying to catch my breath.
The relationship between Lily and Rowland felt incredibly real. Their patience, understanding, and willingness to meet each other where they were made every interaction meaningful. They complemented one another beautifully, not because either of them changed who they were, but because they accepted and appreciated each other exactly as they were.
This story was funny, heartfelt, romantic, and unforgettable. If you're looking for a slow-burn romance with authentic characters, emotional depth, and plenty of moments that will make your heart happy, this one absolutely belongs on your TBR.
July 30, 2026
Adeline Aimes is proving to have a real knack for blending deep, complex, wildly human emotions and challenges with fun, quirky, laugh-out-loud antics. Just like her debut, this book packs an emotional punch and is a fun ride! And who doesn’t love Christmas in July?!
Lily. Lily doesn’t love Christmas in any shape. But she’s no Grinch! The holidays present a challenge for Lily — and her job is literally to help people survive them. With the help of Rowland — a golden retriever in nearly every way — she might just figure out how!
It’s an adorable setup and gets our two lovely MCs into plenty of hilarious and delicious situations.
It also gives us lots of opportunities for Lily to push herself outside of her comfort zone and tackle the very things that are most challenging for her in the hopes of helping other people with autism, social anxiety, and difficulty navigating such tense social situations the holidays naturally bring.
That’s what really set this book apart and made it shine! It was a cozy romance, sure, but it had miles of depth and two MCs you can’t help but cheer on. Particularly Lily. The way she navigated the world and her social challenges was beautifully and authentically portrayed.
Superb writing, full of holiday cheer (and a very realistic view of spending the holidays with loved ones), and a delightful romance, this is a great read! Adeline Aimes did it again!
Lily. Lily doesn’t love Christmas in any shape. But she’s no Grinch! The holidays present a challenge for Lily — and her job is literally to help people survive them. With the help of Rowland — a golden retriever in nearly every way — she might just figure out how!
It’s an adorable setup and gets our two lovely MCs into plenty of hilarious and delicious situations.
It also gives us lots of opportunities for Lily to push herself outside of her comfort zone and tackle the very things that are most challenging for her in the hopes of helping other people with autism, social anxiety, and difficulty navigating such tense social situations the holidays naturally bring.
That’s what really set this book apart and made it shine! It was a cozy romance, sure, but it had miles of depth and two MCs you can’t help but cheer on. Particularly Lily. The way she navigated the world and her social challenges was beautifully and authentically portrayed.
Superb writing, full of holiday cheer (and a very realistic view of spending the holidays with loved ones), and a delightful romance, this is a great read! Adeline Aimes did it again!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adeline has done it again! I am a Christmas lover and this was such a delight to read in July!! Adeline delivered with the banter and witty dialogue that will have you laughing out loud!
Lily is our autistic FMC who has gone through a bad break up. She also hates the holidays. She is developing an app to help those that are neurodivergent like herself, as well as have anxiety around the holidays, to help them through it. Developing an app doesn't pay the bills so she gets a roommate to help her get by. Enter Rowland.
Rowland. My sweet, sweet Rowland. I love everything about him. He may be neurotypical, but he has his own quirks and honestly, how he treats Lily is everything I wanted for her. He is opening up his own coffee shop and quickly clings to Lily as they help each other get noticed on social media. The bucket list they have and post is cheery and a delight to witness!
Thank you Adeline for having Lily see how amazing Hallmark Christmas movies are and the comfort they bring! They are my guilty pleasure because they are so cozy!! Now I'm craving some banana hot chocolate...so yes, this is a holiday book and yes, it is July, but hello Christmas In July! I loved the premise of this book and we even have a little drama surrounding her app and its launch. This romcom is one that will have you swooning and laughing. 5 stars!
Lily is our autistic FMC who has gone through a bad break up. She also hates the holidays. She is developing an app to help those that are neurodivergent like herself, as well as have anxiety around the holidays, to help them through it. Developing an app doesn't pay the bills so she gets a roommate to help her get by. Enter Rowland.
Rowland. My sweet, sweet Rowland. I love everything about him. He may be neurotypical, but he has his own quirks and honestly, how he treats Lily is everything I wanted for her. He is opening up his own coffee shop and quickly clings to Lily as they help each other get noticed on social media. The bucket list they have and post is cheery and a delight to witness!
Thank you Adeline for having Lily see how amazing Hallmark Christmas movies are and the comfort they bring! They are my guilty pleasure because they are so cozy!! Now I'm craving some banana hot chocolate...so yes, this is a holiday book and yes, it is July, but hello Christmas In July! I loved the premise of this book and we even have a little drama surrounding her app and its launch. This romcom is one that will have you swooning and laughing. 5 stars!
July 15, 2026
This book is a 3.5 star rating rounded up to 4.
Lily is a tech genius who hates the holidays and wants nothing more than to get her app (designed to reduce holiday stress) out into the world. Rowland is tech averse, loves people & the holidays and is working to open a cozy holiday-themed café. Through a series of holiday bucket list items documented on social media to support both of their endeavors, Lily and Rowland may just discover that opposites do attract, and they may just be perfect for each other.
This book is full of heartfelt moments and humor as well as caretaking and chaos. The relationship development between Rowland and Lily was a delicious slow burn, and the sweet support that Rowland provided to help Lily believe that she was worthy of love just as she is made for a very enjoyable read.
If you like the tension of forced proximity and opposites attract, this is the book for you.
Thank you so much to Adeline Aimes for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Lily is a tech genius who hates the holidays and wants nothing more than to get her app (designed to reduce holiday stress) out into the world. Rowland is tech averse, loves people & the holidays and is working to open a cozy holiday-themed café. Through a series of holiday bucket list items documented on social media to support both of their endeavors, Lily and Rowland may just discover that opposites do attract, and they may just be perfect for each other.
This book is full of heartfelt moments and humor as well as caretaking and chaos. The relationship development between Rowland and Lily was a delicious slow burn, and the sweet support that Rowland provided to help Lily believe that she was worthy of love just as she is made for a very enjoyable read.
If you like the tension of forced proximity and opposites attract, this is the book for you.
Thank you so much to Adeline Aimes for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
There is so much to love about Calm the Carols. First of all, our MMC is a Golden Retriever to end all Golden Retrievers. He is the definition of adorable. He can make a friend with anyone, and he's so down bad for Lily! I absolutely love how his job is unique for an MMC - running a coffee shop - and so are his coffee flavors (banana, iykyk). He's also a great uncle and brother, which adds so much depth to him. Then, we have our FMC, Lily. I am obsessed with how this is an 'Own Voice' book. It always makes such a difference when the author has a lived experience of one of their characters. That really came through in Aimes' portrayal of Lily's autism. Not to mention that Lily is a bada$$. She rides a motorcycle, AND she developed her own app. Genuinely, who can resist a woman in STEM? Go ahead and add this one to your TBR - you will never regret picking this one, or ANY one, of this fantastic author's books up.
July 14, 2026
If you're over the heat wave and ready for some holiday cheer, then look no further. Calm the Carols follows Lily and Rowland as they navigate becoming roommates, creating/launching an app, and opening a holiday themed coffee shop.
Lily is autistic and has struggled with feelings of belonging and communicating. Advocating for others with neurodivergence, she created an app that provides tools, tips, and exercises to use when getting overwhelmed.
Rowland is a bundle of positivity that throws Lily's organized life into a little bit of chaos. Trying to open his own coffee shop, Lily and Rowland start a holiday bucket list to test/promote her app and his holiday drink concoctions. What started off as promotional pictures and videos for social media turns into longer looks and deeper feelings.
An excellent read to celebrate Christmas in July. Calm the Carols will have you ready to break out the hot chocolate and watch a Christmas marathon. 4 ⭐ read.
Lily is autistic and has struggled with feelings of belonging and communicating. Advocating for others with neurodivergence, she created an app that provides tools, tips, and exercises to use when getting overwhelmed.
Rowland is a bundle of positivity that throws Lily's organized life into a little bit of chaos. Trying to open his own coffee shop, Lily and Rowland start a holiday bucket list to test/promote her app and his holiday drink concoctions. What started off as promotional pictures and videos for social media turns into longer looks and deeper feelings.
An excellent read to celebrate Christmas in July. Calm the Carols will have you ready to break out the hot chocolate and watch a Christmas marathon. 4 ⭐ read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Adeline Aimes does it again! I don't know how you write such relatable yet absolutely unhinged characters, I love you for it❣️
Want to absolutely giggle out loud and fall in love with fictional characters?
Read Calm the Carols!
I found Lily to be so relatable, the things she struggled with I at times find myself struggling with! (Example: Tap Water)
She is fiercely independent, takes no nonsense straight to the point kind of woman, and I absolutely loved her! Her hatred for holidays at me DYING!
Rowland, Green flag energy ALL THE WAY! Good Lord the way I loved this man should be studied.
He support Lily, defended Lily and was just all around the best MMC you could ever have!
His love for holidays and holiday cheer, against Lily's hatred of holidays.... absolute GOLD🥇
This was the perfect Christmas in Summer book!!
Want to absolutely giggle out loud and fall in love with fictional characters?
Read Calm the Carols!
I found Lily to be so relatable, the things she struggled with I at times find myself struggling with! (Example: Tap Water)
She is fiercely independent, takes no nonsense straight to the point kind of woman, and I absolutely loved her! Her hatred for holidays at me DYING!
Rowland, Green flag energy ALL THE WAY! Good Lord the way I loved this man should be studied.
He support Lily, defended Lily and was just all around the best MMC you could ever have!
His love for holidays and holiday cheer, against Lily's hatred of holidays.... absolute GOLD🥇
This was the perfect Christmas in Summer book!!
July 20, 2026
Adeline is one of my new favorite writers so as soon as I was able to read her third book, I jumped at the chance. The thing about this author is that she writes from a very real, true place of emotional authenticity -yet manages to be absolutely hilarious without it feeling like she’s just pasting on jokes. The humor is natural and heartfelt. Not only was this book funny and sweet, but it was also very deeply felt with a beautiful representation of autism and very textured characters with unexpected aspects to them. It’s a really wonderful opposites-attract romance of two people helping each other realize their dreams. There’s also a found family aspect that’s been in her other books as well and it’s one of my favorite tropes.
And- the twist at the end is so well integrated into both the plot and the FMC’s journey, which shows true skill and talent as an author! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for sure!
And- the twist at the end is so well integrated into both the plot and the FMC’s journey, which shows true skill and talent as an author! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for sure!
August 13, 2026
This is the third book I’ve read by Adeline Aimes, and they keep getting better and better. I love how she puts bits of herself in each of the stories. In this one it’s showing how Lily is neurodivergent and has trouble navigating “typical” situations. The app that she creates is actually a really cool idea and if something like that existed in real life I would totally download it!!
I know this is a romcom, but I love how the romance didn’t take over the entire story. It wasn’t just spice or about how Lily and Rowland got together and their interactions. This had so much depth to it and we really got to know the inner workings of Lily’s mind.
Thank you Adeline for shining a light on this way of thinking, and for not portraying it as wrong or bad, but as just another way people are. Not everyone is the same and the world needs to accept that.
I know this is a romcom, but I love how the romance didn’t take over the entire story. It wasn’t just spice or about how Lily and Rowland got together and their interactions. This had so much depth to it and we really got to know the inner workings of Lily’s mind.
Thank you Adeline for shining a light on this way of thinking, and for not portraying it as wrong or bad, but as just another way people are. Not everyone is the same and the world needs to accept that.
Review of advance copy received from Author
People often ask me, "Caroline, when will you stop rating Adeline's books five stars?" And I answer, "When she writes a book that's deserving of less."
I LOVED this book! Lily is an amazing FMC, and while I know people might find her divisive, I think that's the point. She can be hard to relate to at times, but isn't that the whole point of reading? To stretch yourself and step outside yourself? If we continue to read neurotypical characters from neurotypical authors, we're going to miss out on the beauty of saying "Wow, I never thought of it that way," and worse than that? Rob a person of a chance to say: "Hey! That sounds like me!"
Congratulations, Adeline. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
I LOVED this book! Lily is an amazing FMC, and while I know people might find her divisive, I think that's the point. She can be hard to relate to at times, but isn't that the whole point of reading? To stretch yourself and step outside yourself? If we continue to read neurotypical characters from neurotypical authors, we're going to miss out on the beauty of saying "Wow, I never thought of it that way," and worse than that? Rob a person of a chance to say: "Hey! That sounds like me!"
Congratulations, Adeline. I cannot wait to see what comes next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was not prepared for how much this book was going to reveal about myself. I sent SO MANY screenshots of little things that Lily would think and do to my husband just saying "omg, it's not just me!" Rarely, an ARC knocks it out of the park, and Calm the Carols far exceeded my expectations with just Lily's personal journey with autism and family relationships alone.
But then there's the romance! It's like hot chocolate. Sweet, warm, and comforting.
"Rowland doesn’t move, even though all it would take is a slight shift for his leg to press up against mine. Part of me wants him to, and the other part of me is just grateful that he’s allowing me to come as close as I want, on my own time, in my own way."
5/5, I melted.
But then there's the romance! It's like hot chocolate. Sweet, warm, and comforting.
"Rowland doesn’t move, even though all it would take is a slight shift for his leg to press up against mine. Part of me wants him to, and the other part of me is just grateful that he’s allowing me to come as close as I want, on my own time, in my own way."
5/5, I melted.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I've never read a POV like Lily's and I found it so fascinating. As someone who has autistic people in their life I really enjoyed the chance to read a book that was from the perspective of someone living with autism - it was also such a new perspective for a romance book. I've read some stories that have tried to do similar things - but this was the best example I've come across. As well as recommending it to friends purely for that perspective I also adored the whole story. The romance was perfect, the humour got me at every turn, and the growth of the characters was amazing. All in all a book I will deifnitely be giving to friends
July 20, 2026
The book, is so great. gives you Christmas in July, all the cocoa flavored drinks and all jolly in one. Lily hates holidays so she ends up creating this app called calm the carols. It's for us neurodivergents to have coping strategies during the overwhelming parts of the holidays. I need this app. But she needs to find a new roommate to help her pay rent. So she can put more funding into the app. That's where sunshine Rowland comes in! He's so sunshine, holiday loving and her newest roommate. And maybe they end up kissing? You'll just have to read to find out!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book and am so thankful for it! I love all Adeline Aimes books and this was no different. She writes beautifully real, flawed and GOOD humans that you can’t get enough of. I don’t know if anything can take the top spot in her catalog from This is Not a Romance because my heart just adores them but this book as with Dead Husbands Society is worth every single second. She is an autobuy/ recommend for me.
Review of advance copy
I received this book as an ARC.
I really enjoyed this book. The love story was sweet, and I loved watching the two protagonists come together. MMC was so optimistic even through all the tough times he's had, and I really liked how he was written. The FMC was interesting and I liked experiencing the MMC pull her out of her grumpy shell. The Christmas bucket list was such a fun idea to bring these two together. Loved it!
I really enjoyed this book. The love story was sweet, and I loved watching the two protagonists come together. MMC was so optimistic even through all the tough times he's had, and I really liked how he was written. The FMC was interesting and I liked experiencing the MMC pull her out of her grumpy shell. The Christmas bucket list was such a fun idea to bring these two together. Loved it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
As a Christmas hater myself, I felt really seen by Lily. Though her reasons of overwhelm are far more legit than mine. And what better person to coax her out of her shell than one of the BEST golden retriever boyfriends ever imagined on a page. I would keep Rowland for myself…if he didn’t already belong to Lily. But watch yourself, lady!
Pick this romance book up for a touch of the festive this summer, you won’t regret it!
Pick this romance book up for a touch of the festive this summer, you won’t regret it!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I'm so glad I got an ARC to read this gem!! Adeline does it again with this masterpiece. I wish I could see this kind of disability representation in a lot more books. It's so well executed, Lily is as badass as adorable, and OMG, ROWLAND?? This man is the epitome of the perfect book boyfriend. I loved reading about their slow-burn relationship and about Lily's STEM career.
It was such a refreshing read! Definitely one of my top reads of 2026.
It was such a refreshing read! Definitely one of my top reads of 2026.
Review of advance copy received from Author
After seeing another author recommend her, I gobbled up Adeline’s first book, then second, and now this one I was lucky enough to get an early copy! I’m addicted to her writing style, it’s SO funny and effortless. I absolutely LOVE how the autism rep was portrayed in this one. So realistic with a lot of depth. I cannot wait for more books from Adeline!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Oh my goodness! I got the ARC and immediately started reading it.
This book has an appreciated subtle factor across all aspects.
I LOVED the subtle intimacy that slowly grew. It really was just an enjoyable read with sweet, subtle ways the FMC and MMC showed appreciation and feelings for eachother!
This book has an appreciated subtle factor across all aspects.
I LOVED the subtle intimacy that slowly grew. It really was just an enjoyable read with sweet, subtle ways the FMC and MMC showed appreciation and feelings for eachother!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Love this book! This book is very relatable. The way it is written is beautiful.
Grumpy FMC meets sunshine MMC. Forced proximity with slow burn romance mixed with holiday cheer.
This was the first Adeline Aimes book I read and I’ll be reading more of her books.
Grumpy FMC meets sunshine MMC. Forced proximity with slow burn romance mixed with holiday cheer.
This was the first Adeline Aimes book I read and I’ll be reading more of her books.
July 10, 2026
CHRISTMAS CAME EARLY
LOVED the book! It’s adorable and quirky and funny and I’m obsessed with the mental health rep. The MMC in this book is so precious and the FMC is so so relatable. highly recommend!
LOVED the book! It’s adorable and quirky and funny and I’m obsessed with the mental health rep. The MMC in this book is so precious and the FMC is so so relatable. highly recommend!
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