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25 Dates of Christmas: Countdown to Christmas with a Chapter Each Day in this Advent Inspired Enemies to Lovers Romance
Not yet published
Expected 20 Oct 26Count down to Christmas Day with 24 sealed chapters in this festive and heartwarming enemies-to-lovers Advent novel.
Christmas is just around the corner, but Anna has not been in a festive mood after the recent passing of her brother. When she discovers that her brother has left one final request— to work together with Luke, his handsome but arrogant best friend, on an Advent-style series of daily adventures leading up to December 25th— she agrees to fulfill his dying wish.
The two create an unlikely pair, with each day bringing a new and surprisingly delightful discovery. And as the Christmas spirit slowly warms Anna and Luke’s initial icy feelings towards one another, it seems like the holiday season has one more gift to give…
With a delightfully unique Advent calendar format, this book contains twenty-four chapters sealed with an individual sticker. Readers can gently open each chapter so they can follow the love story day-by-day in the weeks leading up to Christmas!
Christmas is just around the corner, but Anna has not been in a festive mood after the recent passing of her brother. When she discovers that her brother has left one final request— to work together with Luke, his handsome but arrogant best friend, on an Advent-style series of daily adventures leading up to December 25th— she agrees to fulfill his dying wish.
The two create an unlikely pair, with each day bringing a new and surprisingly delightful discovery. And as the Christmas spirit slowly warms Anna and Luke’s initial icy feelings towards one another, it seems like the holiday season has one more gift to give…
With a delightfully unique Advent calendar format, this book contains twenty-four chapters sealed with an individual sticker. Readers can gently open each chapter so they can follow the love story day-by-day in the weeks leading up to Christmas!
- GenresRomanceContemporary
368 pages, Paperback
Expected publication October 20, 2026
About the author
Kathryn Freeman
25 books32 followersThere is more than one Kathryn Freeman on Goodreads
Kathryn Freeman is a narrative painter who combines classical composition with magic realism. Freeman’s paintings have been exhibited in galleries in Europe and across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Boston, Washington and Baltimore. Her paintings are in numerous private and public collections, and she has completed several large-scale public mural commissions including two, three-story murals for the Main Public Library in Jacksonville, Florida designed by AM Stern Architects, which opened in November 2005. Freeman has been the recipient of an Ingram Merrill Fellowship, an Elizabeth Greenshield Foundation Fellowship and three, Maryland State Council of the Arts Individual Artist Awards. Her work has been reviewed in The New York Times, Arts Magazine, Art Forum, American Artist and numerous other publications. Freeman has also illustrated several children’s picture books including Loon Chase, by Jean Heilprin Diehl, published by Sylvan Dell. Freeman has taught drawing and painting at the Corcoran since 1996. Previous to that she taught at the New York Academy of Art and Brooklyn College. She received her MFA from Brooklyn College and BFA from the University of New Hampshire. She also studied at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. See her paintings at www.kathrynfreeman.com
Kathryn Freeman is a narrative painter who combines classical composition with magic realism. Freeman’s paintings have been exhibited in galleries in Europe and across the United States, including New York, Los Angeles, London, Boston, Washington and Baltimore. Her paintings are in numerous private and public collections, and she has completed several large-scale public mural commissions including two, three-story murals for the Main Public Library in Jacksonville, Florida designed by AM Stern Architects, which opened in November 2005. Freeman has been the recipient of an Ingram Merrill Fellowship, an Elizabeth Greenshield Foundation Fellowship and three, Maryland State Council of the Arts Individual Artist Awards. Her work has been reviewed in The New York Times, Arts Magazine, Art Forum, American Artist and numerous other publications. Freeman has also illustrated several children’s picture books including Loon Chase, by Jean Heilprin Diehl, published by Sylvan Dell. Freeman has taught drawing and painting at the Corcoran since 1996. Previous to that she taught at the New York Academy of Art and Brooklyn College. She received her MFA from Brooklyn College and BFA from the University of New Hampshire. She also studied at the Skowhegan School of Painting and Sculpture. See her paintings at www.kathrynfreeman.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Unfortunately, I enjoyed this much more in theory than in execution.
I’ll start with the positives.
I thought the advent calendar format was so fun! I didn’t read one chapter per day obviously since I read the ARC, but each activity for the calendar was kind of its own little story and would work perfectly to read each day. There were different activities designed to challenge both characters and I liked seeing both of their reactions.
However.
This didn’t really feel Christmassy at all. Most of the activities were not about Christmas. I liked the festive challenges in the calendar but a lot of the others were just ok. I also didn’t really like either one of the characters mostly because of the way they interacted with each other. They were constantly checking each other out and thinking dirty thoughts about the other character. Their conversations were often filled with innuendos as well. Their connection to each other definitely felt like it was based on physical attraction, at least at first, and that really detracted for me. Even the elderly neighbor had innuendos in her dialogue as well. For all the dirty talk and thoughts, the romance itself is closed door.
I also didn’t like that the brother/best friend had JUST died 2 weeks prior to the book starting and was giving Anna and Luke tasks to help them get over his death. It was sweet, but at the same time, each person handles grief differently and it shouldn’t be rushed.
Sadly, this book was a bit of a miss for me. If the two characters had had more of a connection other than lust, I probably would have rated it higher.
thank you to the publisher, Avon and Harper Voyager, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
I’ll start with the positives.
I thought the advent calendar format was so fun! I didn’t read one chapter per day obviously since I read the ARC, but each activity for the calendar was kind of its own little story and would work perfectly to read each day. There were different activities designed to challenge both characters and I liked seeing both of their reactions.
However.
This didn’t really feel Christmassy at all. Most of the activities were not about Christmas. I liked the festive challenges in the calendar but a lot of the others were just ok. I also didn’t really like either one of the characters mostly because of the way they interacted with each other. They were constantly checking each other out and thinking dirty thoughts about the other character. Their conversations were often filled with innuendos as well. Their connection to each other definitely felt like it was based on physical attraction, at least at first, and that really detracted for me. Even the elderly neighbor had innuendos in her dialogue as well. For all the dirty talk and thoughts, the romance itself is closed door.
I also didn’t like that the brother/best friend had JUST died 2 weeks prior to the book starting and was giving Anna and Luke tasks to help them get over his death. It was sweet, but at the same time, each person handles grief differently and it shouldn’t be rushed.
Sadly, this book was a bit of a miss for me. If the two characters had had more of a connection other than lust, I probably would have rated it higher.
thank you to the publisher, Avon and Harper Voyager, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
July 27, 2026
3.5 stars
I enjoyed this more than I anticipated. I read a very similar book in February and wasn’t sure if this would fare the same.
Anna’s older brother Colin dies of Cancer and leaves a homemade Advent Calendar for her to complete with his best friend Luke. Each day is a new chapter and a new activity to complete. This was a little far-fetched as most people can’t spend multiple weeks unemployed/on leave from their job. In the book version you will “open” each new chapter like an advent calendar, so that sounds like a fun little addition I didn’t get to experience in the ebook format.
All of the activities show a side of Anna or Luke and as the days go on get more intimate, as if all along Colin is trying to bring them together. Prior to Colin getting sick Anna & Luke don’t really know each other so the romance aspect felt a little fast and was heavy on the physical attraction not so much the emotional.
This book is deemed enemies to lovers, but I feel like it was more grumpy sunshine as Anna and Luke were never really “enemies” - they started to get to know each other only in Colin’s last month.
Overall the story is sweet and predictable, as most romances are. It does delve into some deeper topics of grief and loss, so keep that in mind as Christmas time can be difficult for some.
Thanks @NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this eARC, in exchange for an honest review.
I enjoyed this more than I anticipated. I read a very similar book in February and wasn’t sure if this would fare the same.
Anna’s older brother Colin dies of Cancer and leaves a homemade Advent Calendar for her to complete with his best friend Luke. Each day is a new chapter and a new activity to complete. This was a little far-fetched as most people can’t spend multiple weeks unemployed/on leave from their job. In the book version you will “open” each new chapter like an advent calendar, so that sounds like a fun little addition I didn’t get to experience in the ebook format.
All of the activities show a side of Anna or Luke and as the days go on get more intimate, as if all along Colin is trying to bring them together. Prior to Colin getting sick Anna & Luke don’t really know each other so the romance aspect felt a little fast and was heavy on the physical attraction not so much the emotional.
This book is deemed enemies to lovers, but I feel like it was more grumpy sunshine as Anna and Luke were never really “enemies” - they started to get to know each other only in Colin’s last month.
Overall the story is sweet and predictable, as most romances are. It does delve into some deeper topics of grief and loss, so keep that in mind as Christmas time can be difficult for some.
Thanks @NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this eARC, in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I've always been intrigued by the concept of an advent calendar-style holiday romance, so I decided to read this ARC for "Christmas in July." For the majority of the book, I read it in its intended one-chapter-a-day format, but—just as I do with other advent calendars—I would miss or forget a day here or there and play catch-up. Even still, I found the format fun as I read through the book roughly on pace with the time passing for the characters.
This story is as much about the two main characters' shared grief as it is about them finding their happily ever after together, and I found there to be sufficient balance between the two emotional weights. I was invested in the romance while also moved by the relatable portrayal of working through a heavy personal loss. I'm also a sucker for dual-POV romances, which this book delivered on.
My only gripe that comes to mind is that I often found myself frustrated with both characters—Anna for her abrasive approach to communication, Luke for his self-defeatist attitude. Nearly every chapter felt like I was bracing myself for whatever argument the two would get into that day, which made it a bit difficult at times to appreciate the fluffier moments.
Ultimately, I still enjoyed this book a lot and found the advent calendar-format charming. I will definitely be recommending it to friends this holiday season, as I feel that the one-short-chapter-a-day format works well for readers of all interest-levels.
I received a free copy of this book through NetGalley in exchange for my honest review.
4/5 stars | ⭐⭐⭐⭐
📚 INSTAGRAM | TIKTOK 📚
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love the advent style books where we get a chapter a day, and from the synopsis, I thought this was going to be wonderful and heartfelt book of healing over the holidays. I did not only read a chapter per day, but I think I would have actually been much more frustrated with this story if I had. I knew this would take us on a journey of healing with grief, but the push and pull between lust and frustration with two people who were barely even friends and recovering from such a massive loss threw me.
Luke was Colin's best friend and Anna was his sister, but they barely interacted prior to his death when Colin's final request was for them to live together and complete an advent daily adventure together. Luke doesn't like the holidays following his mom's death years ago, but would do anything for his best friend. Anna loves the holidays and all of the memories and traditions she used to do with her brother. Both are faced with situations that opened up their heart to healing and facing old and current demons of their past.
Ultimately, even though they spent the days grieving and healing together, it was hard to see them move past friendship. I was happy to see them have peace and a connection for each other through Colin and would always have the heartfelt memories of their advent dates from him.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc of 25 Dates of Christmas in exchange for an honest review.
Luke was Colin's best friend and Anna was his sister, but they barely interacted prior to his death when Colin's final request was for them to live together and complete an advent daily adventure together. Luke doesn't like the holidays following his mom's death years ago, but would do anything for his best friend. Anna loves the holidays and all of the memories and traditions she used to do with her brother. Both are faced with situations that opened up their heart to healing and facing old and current demons of their past.
Ultimately, even though they spent the days grieving and healing together, it was hard to see them move past friendship. I was happy to see them have peace and a connection for each other through Colin and would always have the heartfelt memories of their advent dates from him.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for an arc of 25 Dates of Christmas in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
25 Dates of Christmas was written by Kathryn Freeman and was designed as an advent book. Open and read a chapter a night, all through out advent. But I knew when I received this advanced reader version for my kindle, there was no way I was only going to do a chapter a night. I just read a similar premise and I was worried that this book would be redundant or not hold up to the last book, but this novel was different in the best of ways and I really really enjoyed it. Anna is grieving the loss of her brother and Luke is grieving the loss of his best friend. Luke, before he died, created an advent calendar of challenges for Anna and Luke to do together. Some Christmassy, like cutting down a tree, decorating for the holidays and ice skating, but some challenges really pushed the boundaries. Was Anna's brother trying to push them together romantically? Will they go their separate ways come the 25th? Will these two grieving adults lean on each other? This book had a lot of heart, a lot of heat, and definitely the sad moments when dealing with death. I loved how Anna brought Luke out of his shell and helped him deal with more than one death in his past. My advice, read this book, but know their are some deep feels that go along with all the fun and festive fun that is had.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
25 Dates of Christmas is an emotional story.
Anna just lost her brother and Luke just lost his best friend. After Colin's passing they find that he has created an Advent for them to do together. There's only one problem. They don't really like each other. 25 days is sure going to be interesting.
I tried to read this Advent style. 1 chapter a day. I have absolutely no willpower. At all. I made it to day 8 and then I broke. I'm 100% positive that others will be able to do this at Christmas time with no problem at all. I however could not.
I knew the story would be emotional. We know from the description that this Advent comes about because of a death. I just didn't realize how much of the story would revolve around Anna and Luke not getting along. It was hard for me to really see them as a couple by the end of the story. They just spent too much time bickering and not in a fun way. I just didn't feel their connection. Which made the loves scenes a bit awkward in my opinion. I also would have really liked to see more in-depth writing of the Advent challenges. They were good adventures, I just wanted more page time to see the adventures.
*Thank you NetGalley & Avon and Harper Voyager for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
Anna just lost her brother and Luke just lost his best friend. After Colin's passing they find that he has created an Advent for them to do together. There's only one problem. They don't really like each other. 25 days is sure going to be interesting.
I tried to read this Advent style. 1 chapter a day. I have absolutely no willpower. At all. I made it to day 8 and then I broke. I'm 100% positive that others will be able to do this at Christmas time with no problem at all. I however could not.
I knew the story would be emotional. We know from the description that this Advent comes about because of a death. I just didn't realize how much of the story would revolve around Anna and Luke not getting along. It was hard for me to really see them as a couple by the end of the story. They just spent too much time bickering and not in a fun way. I just didn't feel their connection. Which made the loves scenes a bit awkward in my opinion. I also would have really liked to see more in-depth writing of the Advent challenges. They were good adventures, I just wanted more page time to see the adventures.
*Thank you NetGalley & Avon and Harper Voyager for providing me with an advanced readers copy for a honest review*
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
If you love advent calendars, this book is a great option for you. Each day is sealed for you to open your gift of a chapter each day leading up to Christmas. Follow Luke and Anna as they embark on the advent calendar that has been left behind for them by the one person they both love the most, Colin. The lose of Colin brings them together in very unexpected ways and helps them not only grieve, but find happiness in ways they would never have imagined.
While many would not think the death of a loved one is a fitting topic for a Christmas story, Christmas can often be one of the saddest times of the year, so this book looks at that side of the season. If you have ever lost a loved one, this romance can help you find some hope that things can and will get better. I love the concept of this book and the overall plot line. Freeman's book is adult oriented, I would not recommend teens read this, there is quite a bit of sexual content. I have read advent books before and this one is a bit spicer than others, so that that into account before you select this one specifically this season.
One last tip when you buy advent books - be gentle with the pages when you rip them open, or you may end up crying...
***Thanks NetGalley for this ARC***
While many would not think the death of a loved one is a fitting topic for a Christmas story, Christmas can often be one of the saddest times of the year, so this book looks at that side of the season. If you have ever lost a loved one, this romance can help you find some hope that things can and will get better. I love the concept of this book and the overall plot line. Freeman's book is adult oriented, I would not recommend teens read this, there is quite a bit of sexual content. I have read advent books before and this one is a bit spicer than others, so that that into account before you select this one specifically this season.
One last tip when you buy advent books - be gentle with the pages when you rip them open, or you may end up crying...
***Thanks NetGalley for this ARC***
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Kathryn Freeman’s new holiday offering is a sweet with heat, heartbreaking and heartwarming story of two opposites who share one thing in common: love for the FMCs recently departed brother.
Although we never meet Colin, the man who has died, he is integral to this love story because he leaves one request behind after he dies: for his sister and best friend to complete an advent calendar he has devised. Anna, his sister, is a lover of all things Christmas, while Luke, his bff, isn’t. So, throwing these two together to help them grieve is a wonderful way for both of them to work through their loss.
What unfolds is a Christmas grumpy/sunshine tale of two people whose shared love helps them fall in love.
For 24 days, they embark on every single message and task Colin has left behind in the Advent calendar. Most of the tasks in one way or another force the two to face their fears, their past decisions, and their futures.
I loved this story so much. It was the perfect antidote for all the darkness in the world right now, because it brought light to my days.
Even from the grave, the power of love cannot be contained.
5 stars. Wonderful read.
Although we never meet Colin, the man who has died, he is integral to this love story because he leaves one request behind after he dies: for his sister and best friend to complete an advent calendar he has devised. Anna, his sister, is a lover of all things Christmas, while Luke, his bff, isn’t. So, throwing these two together to help them grieve is a wonderful way for both of them to work through their loss.
What unfolds is a Christmas grumpy/sunshine tale of two people whose shared love helps them fall in love.
For 24 days, they embark on every single message and task Colin has left behind in the Advent calendar. Most of the tasks in one way or another force the two to face their fears, their past decisions, and their futures.
I loved this story so much. It was the perfect antidote for all the darkness in the world right now, because it brought light to my days.
Even from the grave, the power of love cannot be contained.
5 stars. Wonderful read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I love the concept behind this book! What a great idea to have a book set as an advent calendar that you can physically open daily. It helps the reader immerse themselves in the story.
As for the story, I am a huge fan of PS I Love You and I also more recently liked PS I Hate You. The plot is the same: someone from beyond the grave sends letters to a loved one to help them through their grief. This book is cute but rough around the edges. It took me a few chapters to really get into the story. and even then the different use of point of views within each chapter was slightly offsetting.
At first, the attraction and the banter between the characters didn't feel natural, it all felt forced. But after a few chapters they found their rhythm and it was much more believable. I am, however, a huge fan of the neighbor Pearl. She is having the best time in her life and I looked forward to all her interactions.
Overall it was a cute story, heartwarming, and I liked seeing Luke open up to Anna.
As for the story, I am a huge fan of PS I Love You and I also more recently liked PS I Hate You. The plot is the same: someone from beyond the grave sends letters to a loved one to help them through their grief. This book is cute but rough around the edges. It took me a few chapters to really get into the story. and even then the different use of point of views within each chapter was slightly offsetting.
At first, the attraction and the banter between the characters didn't feel natural, it all felt forced. But after a few chapters they found their rhythm and it was much more believable. I am, however, a huge fan of the neighbor Pearl. She is having the best time in her life and I looked forward to all her interactions.
Overall it was a cute story, heartwarming, and I liked seeing Luke open up to Anna.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is such a cozy, creative holiday read. The Advent calendar format alone makes it feel special—opening a chapter a day really pulls you into the story and makes it perfect for the lead-up to Christmas.
At its core, it’s a mix of grief and healing wrapped in a festive setting. Anna’s sadness is very present, but it’s handled gently, and the story never feels too heavy. Watching her slowly reconnect with joy through the daily adventures is really touching.
Luke starts off a bit rough around the edges, but that tension works well for the enemies-to-lovers vibe. As they spend more time together, their dynamic softens in a believable, gradual way, and the shift feels earned.
The romance is sweet rather than overly dramatic, and the small, day-by-day moments are what make it stand out. It’s less about big twists and more about quiet connection and rediscovering warmth during a difficult time.
Overall, it’s a comforting, heartfelt read—perfect if you want something festive with a bit of emotional depth.
At its core, it’s a mix of grief and healing wrapped in a festive setting. Anna’s sadness is very present, but it’s handled gently, and the story never feels too heavy. Watching her slowly reconnect with joy through the daily adventures is really touching.
Luke starts off a bit rough around the edges, but that tension works well for the enemies-to-lovers vibe. As they spend more time together, their dynamic softens in a believable, gradual way, and the shift feels earned.
The romance is sweet rather than overly dramatic, and the small, day-by-day moments are what make it stand out. It’s less about big twists and more about quiet connection and rediscovering warmth during a difficult time.
Overall, it’s a comforting, heartfelt read—perfect if you want something festive with a bit of emotional depth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was the first completed advent romance I’ve read. Since I was reading this as an arc, I tried to stick to one chapter a day so I could experience it the way it was meant to be read, but I found that challenging because I really loved this story.
The story follows Anna, a sister, and Luke, her best friend, who are both grieving the recent loss of Colin. It was surprisingly full of tender moments, some spice (spicier than other romance advents I’ve tried reading), and a bit of miscommunication that makes romances what they are. I found myself completely sucked into the story and really enjoyed all of the characters.
Parts of the book felt a little slow, but that made sense since the story is building from the beginning of the month in an advent format. I loved how the spirit of the holidays was woven into the story alongside the grief. It made for such a heartfelt read.
4.5 stars for me!
The story follows Anna, a sister, and Luke, her best friend, who are both grieving the recent loss of Colin. It was surprisingly full of tender moments, some spice (spicier than other romance advents I’ve tried reading), and a bit of miscommunication that makes romances what they are. I found myself completely sucked into the story and really enjoyed all of the characters.
Parts of the book felt a little slow, but that made sense since the story is building from the beginning of the month in an advent format. I loved how the spirit of the holidays was woven into the story alongside the grief. It made for such a heartfelt read.
4.5 stars for me!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
25 Dates of Christmas by Kathryn Freeman is a fun and heartwarming way to get into the holiday spirit this season. Reading a chapter each day brings readers a little extra cheer as they count down to Christmas. This emotional story follows Anna, a grieving woman who reluctantly teams up with Luke, her late brother’s best friend, to complete one final wish: an advent-style countdown of daily holiday adventures leading up to Christmas Day.
Kathryn Freeman creates engaging characters who feel genuine and relatable. The journey through the holiday dates brings healing, laughter, reflection, and heartfelt moments as Anna and Luke discover more about themselves and what they truly want. Their romance develops naturally, with careful attention given to the grieving process, allowing both characters the time and space to navigate their emotions while finding unexpected comfort and connection.
Kathryn Freeman creates engaging characters who feel genuine and relatable. The journey through the holiday dates brings healing, laughter, reflection, and heartfelt moments as Anna and Luke discover more about themselves and what they truly want. Their romance develops naturally, with careful attention given to the grieving process, allowing both characters the time and space to navigate their emotions while finding unexpected comfort and connection.
May 26, 2026
25 Dates of Christmas: An Advent Love Story by Kathryn Freeman is a fun and festive holiday romance.
This is a cute concept for a Christmas holiday contemporary romance.
Each chapter is supposed to be read on each consecutive day in December, and just like opening that calendar each morning, the reader finds out a little but more on the healing process and romance development between the two main characters.
Anna and Luke have chemistry and witty dialogue that keeps this book moving at a solid pace. I enjoyed this light read.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/6/26.
This is a cute concept for a Christmas holiday contemporary romance.
Each chapter is supposed to be read on each consecutive day in December, and just like opening that calendar each morning, the reader finds out a little but more on the healing process and romance development between the two main characters.
Anna and Luke have chemistry and witty dialogue that keeps this book moving at a solid pace. I enjoyed this light read.
4/5 stars
Thank you NG and Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.
I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 10/6/26.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
"25 Dates of Christmas" broke me emotionally in the best way. Anne recently lost her brother, Colin. Luke lost his best friend, who was also like a brother to him, the only family he had.
Colin had one last request of them both: to open an advent calendar and do whatever adventure was inside together.
Luke is grumpy, arrogant, emotionally closed off, yet handsome. He lost his mom to cancer when he was younger and never really healed. Luke has a lot of guilt and unprocessed emotions. He struggles with expressing his emotions and would rather ignore them altogether.
Anne is struggling with loss, but she's determined to follow through on her brother's final wish.
I really enjoyed seeing them both work through their grief together in different ways. The holidays are often tough for so many people when they've lost loved ones. I loved that Colin pushed them together during Christmastime. They might not have loved all the challenges/adventures, but they realized they enjoyed doing them together and weren't so lonely.
The progression of their story was beautiful; we really got to see their relationship grow over the 25 days. Not only was their relationship full of heartbreak, it was also inspiring and relatable. It was written so well, and I couldn't stop reading. It was cute, emotional, and definitely worth the read!
Colin had one last request of them both: to open an advent calendar and do whatever adventure was inside together.
Luke is grumpy, arrogant, emotionally closed off, yet handsome. He lost his mom to cancer when he was younger and never really healed. Luke has a lot of guilt and unprocessed emotions. He struggles with expressing his emotions and would rather ignore them altogether.
Anne is struggling with loss, but she's determined to follow through on her brother's final wish.
I really enjoyed seeing them both work through their grief together in different ways. The holidays are often tough for so many people when they've lost loved ones. I loved that Colin pushed them together during Christmastime. They might not have loved all the challenges/adventures, but they realized they enjoyed doing them together and weren't so lonely.
The progression of their story was beautiful; we really got to see their relationship grow over the 25 days. Not only was their relationship full of heartbreak, it was also inspiring and relatable. It was written so well, and I couldn't stop reading. It was cute, emotional, and definitely worth the read!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
25 Dates of Christmas is the perfect, cozy holiday read. Anna and Luke are grieving the passing of Colin, Anna’s brother and Luke’s best friend. He’s left them an advent calendar of daily adventures to complete together. They are total opposites, he’s surly, and she’s bubbly, and it makes for a fun, banter-filled dynamic with lots of sizzling chemistry. Still, at the heart of this story are two people struggling with loss and lingering caregiver guilt. The activities Colin leaves behind force the duo to face their pain, find healing with each other, and discover what they want for the future. Luke’s arc is particularly poignant as he comes to terms with another loss from his past. This is a sweet, heartfelt romance that you won’t be able to put down.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Anna and Luke are brought together after the death of Colin—Anna’s brother and Luke’s best friend since their teens. Although Anna had only known Luke in passing over the years, the two spent Colin’s final six weeks caring for him after he revealed his cancer diagnosis.
After his passing, they discover an Advent calendar Colin made for them, with a new task to complete each day. As they work through his final gift, Anna and Luke grow closer while struggling with their grief and the guilt of developing feelings for each other.
This was a sweet, emotional Christmas romance about love, loss, and healing. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop through Colin’s thoughtful final gift.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
After his passing, they discover an Advent calendar Colin made for them, with a new task to complete each day. As they work through his final gift, Anna and Luke grow closer while struggling with their grief and the guilt of developing feelings for each other.
This was a sweet, emotional Christmas romance about love, loss, and healing. I really enjoyed watching their relationship develop through Colin’s thoughtful final gift.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the advanced copy. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This book is cute, cozy, and adorable. The banter between the characters is adorable.
Anna’s brother Colin has recently passed away. Colin has asked for Anna and his best friend Luke to spend the 25 days before Christmas together in his condo completing an advent calendar he designed for them.
The chemistry between Anna and Luke is wild the yearning between Anna and Luke is wild and their relationship is lovely. Luke has a bit of a dirty mouth, which I loved and Anna doesn’t back down from him which I love to see in a FMC.
The first few chapters of this book felt like it was trying a bit hard to cram back story in too quickly, but that ends quickly and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. A very cute, cozy Christmas read.
Anna’s brother Colin has recently passed away. Colin has asked for Anna and his best friend Luke to spend the 25 days before Christmas together in his condo completing an advent calendar he designed for them.
The chemistry between Anna and Luke is wild the yearning between Anna and Luke is wild and their relationship is lovely. Luke has a bit of a dirty mouth, which I loved and Anna doesn’t back down from him which I love to see in a FMC.
The first few chapters of this book felt like it was trying a bit hard to cram back story in too quickly, but that ends quickly and I thoroughly enjoyed reading this. A very cute, cozy Christmas read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book in the form of an advent calendar for Christmas in July? Immediately yes!
This story is about two who shared grief as it is about finding their happily ever after together, and I found there to be sufficient balance between the two emotional weights. Nearly every chapter felt like | was bracing myself for whatever argument the two would get into that day, which made it a bit difficult at times to appreciate the fluffier moments.
Ultimately, I still enjoyed this book a lot and found the advent calendar-format charming. I will definitely be recommending it to friends this holiday season, as I feel that the one-short-chapter-a-day format works well for readers of all interest-levels.
I received this ARC from NetGalley!
This story is about two who shared grief as it is about finding their happily ever after together, and I found there to be sufficient balance between the two emotional weights. Nearly every chapter felt like | was bracing myself for whatever argument the two would get into that day, which made it a bit difficult at times to appreciate the fluffier moments.
Ultimately, I still enjoyed this book a lot and found the advent calendar-format charming. I will definitely be recommending it to friends this holiday season, as I feel that the one-short-chapter-a-day format works well for readers of all interest-levels.
I received this ARC from NetGalley!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers | Brother's Best Friend | Advent / Daily Challenge | Cozy Christmas Spirit
Review: 25 Dates of Christmas by Kathryn Freeman was such a heartwarming, emotional, and festive story! The Advent-calendar format is so unique, and watching Anna and Luke honor her brother's memory through 24 daily adventures was deeply touching.
The transition from initial icy tension to genuine warmth and love was written so beautifully. It seamlessly blends grief and healing with holiday magic, joy, and sweet romance. A truly special Christmas read that leaves you with all the feelings!
Thank you to the publisher ,the author ,and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Tropes: Enemies to Lovers | Brother's Best Friend | Advent / Daily Challenge | Cozy Christmas Spirit
Review: 25 Dates of Christmas by Kathryn Freeman was such a heartwarming, emotional, and festive story! The Advent-calendar format is so unique, and watching Anna and Luke honor her brother's memory through 24 daily adventures was deeply touching.
The transition from initial icy tension to genuine warmth and love was written so beautifully. It seamlessly blends grief and healing with holiday magic, joy, and sweet romance. A truly special Christmas read that leaves you with all the feelings!
Thank you to the publisher ,the author ,and NetGalley for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 24, 2026
I read this in May so I didn’t stick to the “advent calendar schedule” BUT the premise of reading it like an advent calendar is actually the cutest thing ever, and if I were to have read this in December I would have 100% read it like that! I love a good insta lust/slow burn tension book and this definitely delivered and the tension was insane WHEWWWWW 🔥. I liked the grumpy sunshine dynamic plus semi forced prox as well! Okay but serious topic here, the emotional depth was really nice when it came to grief and how people cope with it in natural ways even when it’s new and older losses. I definitely shed some tears along the way that felt very cathartic. 🥹
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
25 Dates of Christmas was such a heartwarming and emotional holiday romance. After losing someone they both loved, Anna and Luke are brought together by Colin's final wish: complete 25 Christmas-themed adventures from an advent calendar he left behind. What starts as a journey through grief slowly becomes a beautiful story of healing, friendship, and love. The festive atmosphere, emotional depth, and grumpy/sunshine chemistry made this impossible to put down. Equal parts heartbreaking and hopeful, it's the perfect Christmas romance.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the eARC!
Pub. date: Oct. 6th 2026
#25DatesofChristmas #NetGalley
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for the eARC!
Pub. date: Oct. 6th 2026
#25DatesofChristmas #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a cute story and unique premise!
Following along as Anna and Luke must unravel Colin's messages and tasks was heartwarming and wonderful. Their relationship progresses so naturally.
The only thing i wish is that we could've met Colin a little bit before the events of this story start rolling. His presence is felt the entire time.
A cute Christmas romance that I will definitely revisit during the season!
Thank you Kathryn Freeman, NetGalley, and Avon and Harper Voyager for an advanced copy in exchange for a review.
Following along as Anna and Luke must unravel Colin's messages and tasks was heartwarming and wonderful. Their relationship progresses so naturally.
The only thing i wish is that we could've met Colin a little bit before the events of this story start rolling. His presence is felt the entire time.
A cute Christmas romance that I will definitely revisit during the season!
Thank you Kathryn Freeman, NetGalley, and Avon and Harper Voyager for an advanced copy in exchange for a review.
July 9, 2026
A slow, reflective story that highlight the importance of trust and love. Each of the chapters were evenly paced. The two main characters were given most of the space throughout the plot. However, when other characters were introduced they contributed to the plot well! There is a heavy theme of grief. Even with the dates, it put the romance in the background often. The romance really plateaued for a large section of the book, making some scenes feel repeated. Overall a heartwarming holiday story!
August 9, 2026
This book was cute and poignant. Our main characters have to complete an advent calendar while living together in their late brother/best friend’s condo. We have a dual POV and easy to read, short chapters each day, making this a breeze to keep up with and enjoy. I loved the way they both dealt with and supported each other through their grief, and how they worked through past trauma and issues together too. I laughed, I teared up a little, and I’m ready for Christmas now 🎄
Received as an ARC via NetGalley
Received as an ARC via NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It’s not a surprise that this is a love story, but this is also a story of loss. Fresh loss and old loss. So… trigger warning.
I enjoyed this, and if you do this one chapter a day as advertised, it will be a slooooow burn. Thankfully I got an eARC and so read it in one afternoon/evening. Love the sassy neighbor, Pearl.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager. These opinions are my own.
I enjoyed this, and if you do this one chapter a day as advertised, it will be a slooooow burn. Thankfully I got an eARC and so read it in one afternoon/evening. Love the sassy neighbor, Pearl.
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon and Harper Voyager. These opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I received a free copy of, 25 Dates of Christmas, by Kathryn Freeman from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. My biggest pet peeve in books are people taking the Lords name in vain, there is no reason for anyone to say Jesus Christ, unless they are praying and Luke was not. There are so many words in the English language, to only use Jesus Christ. It ruins the story for me, as it did with this book, which actually started out great!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is just the sweetest book ever!!! It had me in all my feels, grief, happiness, laughter. I think I laughed more in this book than any other in awhile. Their uncomfortablness around each other made me chuckle, and then there was Pearl lol her cougar azz!!! I loved this book
Come back to your Review on the pub date,
Come back to your Review on the pub date,
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you NetGalley for the arc!
I love a good Christmas story and this was definitely it! The idea of an advent calendar, one chapter a day is so cute. The banter, the chemistry was great between Luke and Anna.
If you love Christmas stories, this is for you.
I love a good Christmas story and this was definitely it! The idea of an advent calendar, one chapter a day is so cute. The banter, the chemistry was great between Luke and Anna.
If you love Christmas stories, this is for you.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Moved a little slow at first BUT this was meant to be read a chapter a day but I was reviewing so I read all at once. Romantic, fun, and emotional book with a PERFECT ending. Perfect advent book for the Christmas season.
August 28, 2026
25 Dates Of Christmas was a cute and original idea about Luke, the best friend, and Anna the sister, who were grieving in their own ways over the death of Collin. Collin made them an advent calendar of things to do together to mourn, grieve, celebrate, become closer, and to not be alone together (Anna and Luke)
I thought it was written really well, but I truthfully was getting a bit bored due to the grieving process. Luke always upset Anna with almost everything he would say, and Anna was always just crying a lot. It really threw me off in the first half of the book. It got a bit better, but I just couldn’t truly get myself to love the book as much as I wanted to.
The ending was so cute, and wrapped the book up perfectly but I just didn’t love it so much and I don’t think it helps that this is the second book I have read that is based in and around Christmas time and I’m not a big fan of holiday books. I was hoping and took a long shot with this book.
BUTTTT, if you love holiday books, and people being brought together during this beautiful time of the year. This is a perfect read for you! It has a little bit of everything, just sadly wasn’t my cup of tea!
I thought it was written really well, but I truthfully was getting a bit bored due to the grieving process. Luke always upset Anna with almost everything he would say, and Anna was always just crying a lot. It really threw me off in the first half of the book. It got a bit better, but I just couldn’t truly get myself to love the book as much as I wanted to.
The ending was so cute, and wrapped the book up perfectly but I just didn’t love it so much and I don’t think it helps that this is the second book I have read that is based in and around Christmas time and I’m not a big fan of holiday books. I was hoping and took a long shot with this book.
BUTTTT, if you love holiday books, and people being brought together during this beautiful time of the year. This is a perfect read for you! It has a little bit of everything, just sadly wasn’t my cup of tea!
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