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Twelve Days of Christmas
NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER - Continuing in a festive annual tradition, Debbie Macomber returns with a new original holiday novel full of romance and cheer--and the magical prospect of finding love in the most unexpected places.
Friendly and bubbly, Julia Padden likes nearly everyone, but her standoffish neighbor, Cain Maddox, presents a particular challenge. No matter how hard she's tried to be nice, Cain rudely rebuffs her at every turn, preferring to keep to himself. But when Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper from the lobby of their apartment building, that's the last straw. She's going to break through Cain's Scrooge-like exterior the only way she knows how: by killing him with kindness.
To track her progress, Julia starts a blog called The Twelve Days of Christmas. Her first attempts to humanize Cain are far from successful. Julia brings him homemade Christmas treats and the disagreeable grinch won't even accept them. Meanwhile, Julie's blog becomes an online sensation, as an astonishing number of people start following her adventures. Julia continues to find ways to express kindness and, little by little, chips away at Cain's gruff facade to reveal the caring man underneath. Unbelievably, Julia feels herself falling for Cain--and she suspects that he may be falling for her as well. But as the popularity of her blog continues to grow, Julia must decide if telling Cain the truth about having chronicled their relationship to the rest of the world is worth risking their chance at love.
Praise for Twelve Days of Christmas
"Another heartwarming seasonal [Debbie] Macomber tale, which fans will find as bright and cozy as a blazing fire on Christmas Eve."--Kirkus Reviews
"Twelve Days of Christmas is a delightful, charming read for anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas novel. . . . Settle in with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, and curl up for some Christmas fun with Debbie Macomber's latest festive read."--Bookreporter
"If you're looking for a quick but meaningful holiday romance that will be sure to spark a need inside you to show others kindness, look no further than Twelve Day of Christmas."--Harlequin Junkie
"Twelve Days of Christmas is a charming, heartwarming holiday tale. With poignant characters and an enchanting plot, Macomber again burrows into the fragility of human emotions to arrive at a delightful conclusion."--New York Journal of Books
"Twelve Days of Christmas is . . . a straight-up, clean romance with a happily ever after, all set during the Christmas season. . . . What more could you want at Christmas than a feel-good book with a happy ending?"--Desert Island Book Reviews
"The perfect Christmas romance . . . As expected from any Macomber novel, you'll love the progress of humanity, kindness and get all the feels of a holiday romance."--Books for Her
"Twelve Days of Christmas by Debbie Macomber is a beautifully written, festive tale of love, understanding and finding what you need . . . the perfect Christmas read to get you into the holiday mood. A truly delightful, happy read!"--Books of all Kinds
From the Hardcover edition.
Friendly and bubbly, Julia Padden likes nearly everyone, but her standoffish neighbor, Cain Maddox, presents a particular challenge. No matter how hard she's tried to be nice, Cain rudely rebuffs her at every turn, preferring to keep to himself. But when Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper from the lobby of their apartment building, that's the last straw. She's going to break through Cain's Scrooge-like exterior the only way she knows how: by killing him with kindness.
To track her progress, Julia starts a blog called The Twelve Days of Christmas. Her first attempts to humanize Cain are far from successful. Julia brings him homemade Christmas treats and the disagreeable grinch won't even accept them. Meanwhile, Julie's blog becomes an online sensation, as an astonishing number of people start following her adventures. Julia continues to find ways to express kindness and, little by little, chips away at Cain's gruff facade to reveal the caring man underneath. Unbelievably, Julia feels herself falling for Cain--and she suspects that he may be falling for her as well. But as the popularity of her blog continues to grow, Julia must decide if telling Cain the truth about having chronicled their relationship to the rest of the world is worth risking their chance at love.
Praise for Twelve Days of Christmas
"Another heartwarming seasonal [Debbie] Macomber tale, which fans will find as bright and cozy as a blazing fire on Christmas Eve."--Kirkus Reviews
"Twelve Days of Christmas is a delightful, charming read for anyone looking for an enjoyable Christmas novel. . . . Settle in with a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, and curl up for some Christmas fun with Debbie Macomber's latest festive read."--Bookreporter
"If you're looking for a quick but meaningful holiday romance that will be sure to spark a need inside you to show others kindness, look no further than Twelve Day of Christmas."--Harlequin Junkie
"Twelve Days of Christmas is a charming, heartwarming holiday tale. With poignant characters and an enchanting plot, Macomber again burrows into the fragility of human emotions to arrive at a delightful conclusion."--New York Journal of Books
"Twelve Days of Christmas is . . . a straight-up, clean romance with a happily ever after, all set during the Christmas season. . . . What more could you want at Christmas than a feel-good book with a happy ending?"--Desert Island Book Reviews
"The perfect Christmas romance . . . As expected from any Macomber novel, you'll love the progress of humanity, kindness and get all the feels of a holiday romance."--Books for Her
"Twelve Days of Christmas by Debbie Macomber is a beautifully written, festive tale of love, understanding and finding what you need . . . the perfect Christmas read to get you into the holiday mood. A truly delightful, happy read!"--Books of all Kinds
From the Hardcover edition.
212 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 4, 2016
2437 people are currently reading
6705 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
894 books20.6k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,604 reviews
December 24, 2018
Cute Christmas romance with friendly Julia, her Scrooge-like neighbor Cain, and what happens when Julia decides to kill Cain with kindness for the twelve days of Christmas. Fun and festive, with very likable characters and perfect for the holiday season.
December 9, 2017
T'is the Season! Time to decorate, bake cookies and watch old movies on TV while I decorate them. And it's the time of year to read a book that's on the sweet side, too. I wanted a read that went with Christmas!
I chose this one for several reasons. I liked the cover. And I once met Debbie Macomber at a book convention and she was a lovely person, warm and congenial. It's as good as any reason for choosing a book off a Safeway rack.
This book delivered everything that I wanted in a Christmas romance. It had a linear plot, lively characterization, a few mishaps along the way, and a happy ending. I liked the main character; if she lived near by, I'd want her to be my friend.
There is a time for sugar cookies, jingle bells and books like this! If you are Christmassing and would like a little romance for your bedtime read, I recommend this one!
I chose this one for several reasons. I liked the cover. And I once met Debbie Macomber at a book convention and she was a lovely person, warm and congenial. It's as good as any reason for choosing a book off a Safeway rack.
This book delivered everything that I wanted in a Christmas romance. It had a linear plot, lively characterization, a few mishaps along the way, and a happy ending. I liked the main character; if she lived near by, I'd want her to be my friend.
There is a time for sugar cookies, jingle bells and books like this! If you are Christmassing and would like a little romance for your bedtime read, I recommend this one!
December 19, 2021
I love a great Debbie Macomber book, especially the ones with that great Scrooge/Christmas elf dynamic like this one! Cain does not like Christmas, and he has his reasons. Julia runs a blog that she’s trying to get off the ground, and also works in a department store. They live in the same apartment building, and Mr. Scrooge has a habit of stealing her newspaper. Julia decides that she’s going to overwhelm him with holiday cheer until he sees the error of his ways… and post about it on her blog, nicknaming him “Ebenezer.” Too cute. Add in a choir concert at a nursing home, a grandpa who likes to meddle just enough, and some well-timed chicken soup, and this was a sweet, cozy holiday treat.
December 27, 2023
Kill him with kindness? It just might work. 🌲 This book was a part of my Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Here is what I liked about it:
🎄A festive read with clean content. Julia and Cain live across the hall from each other and do not have sleep overs. Julia accompanies her church choir and volunteers to help others in a variety of ways.
🎄The power of kindness goes hand in hand with celebrating the gift of a Savior at Christmas. Julia's twelve days involve doing something kind for Cain each day and quickly grows into friendship.
🎄Fabulous supporting characters like Julia's bestie Cammie, Cain's grandfather, and his dog Schroeder.
🎄Both Julia and Cain will find that they have made mistakes, but frank communication and forgiveness work wonders.
👎I was not a fan of how much Julia shares in her blog. It did not seem wise from the beginning. Not my favorite plot decision as it seemed immature.
🎄A festive read with clean content. Julia and Cain live across the hall from each other and do not have sleep overs. Julia accompanies her church choir and volunteers to help others in a variety of ways.
🎄The power of kindness goes hand in hand with celebrating the gift of a Savior at Christmas. Julia's twelve days involve doing something kind for Cain each day and quickly grows into friendship.
🎄Fabulous supporting characters like Julia's bestie Cammie, Cain's grandfather, and his dog Schroeder.
🎄Both Julia and Cain will find that they have made mistakes, but frank communication and forgiveness work wonders.
👎I was not a fan of how much Julia shares in her blog. It did not seem wise from the beginning. Not my favorite plot decision as it seemed immature.
December 3, 2020
Shortest review ever.
I wanted a cute Christmas romance. I got a cute Christmas romance. No swooning for me but the grandfather character was a nice touch!
I wanted a cute Christmas romance. I got a cute Christmas romance. No swooning for me but the grandfather character was a nice touch!
December 5, 2025
2.5 stars
My first Debbie Macomber book, and it was okay, but predictable in the extreme and a little too smarmy for my taste. Practicing kindness is never a bad thing, but I didn’t need the sermon-y tone that cropped up a few times.
There’s grumpy and then there’s hostile, and Cain was downright hostile. He had been abandoned as a child and used by a previous love interest, so naturally he was surly and mean because that’s what happens in romance novels. Julia’s chirpiness irritated him.
Chirpy Julia needs an idea to generate more traffic on her blog in order to win a coveted social media job.
“This is perfect,” Cammie continued. “Kill him with kindness on your blog and report your progress for the next twelve days.”
Julia wasn’t keen on this. The less exposure to Cain Maddox she had, the better. “I don’t know…”
“The countdown is sure to attract attention to your blog. All you need to do is to be kind to him. You’re naturally friendly and funny. This guy won’t know what hit him. And then you can document what happens on your blog. Mark my words, readers will love this.”
“Did you even hear what I said?” Julia reminded her friend. “I can tell you right now kindness isn’t going to affect him one way or the other.”
“You won’t know until you try.”
Julia bit down on her lower lip as visions of winning that highly paid position swirled in her head.
…Maybe she could treat Cain Maddox’s surly mood with extra doses of nice. It would be an interesting test of the power of kindness. As a bonus, she wouldn’t need to stress about content for her blog. She would simply be reporting the results. Easy-peasy.
This conversation happens at 12%, which is when the reader knows exactly what’s going to happen and how it’s going to happen. And sure enough, it does.
Ya shoulda told him before he found out, Julia.
My first Debbie Macomber book, and it was okay, but predictable in the extreme and a little too smarmy for my taste. Practicing kindness is never a bad thing, but I didn’t need the sermon-y tone that cropped up a few times.
There’s grumpy and then there’s hostile, and Cain was downright hostile. He had been abandoned as a child and used by a previous love interest, so naturally he was surly and mean because that’s what happens in romance novels. Julia’s chirpiness irritated him.
Chirpy Julia needs an idea to generate more traffic on her blog in order to win a coveted social media job.
“This is perfect,” Cammie continued. “Kill him with kindness on your blog and report your progress for the next twelve days.”
Julia wasn’t keen on this. The less exposure to Cain Maddox she had, the better. “I don’t know…”
“The countdown is sure to attract attention to your blog. All you need to do is to be kind to him. You’re naturally friendly and funny. This guy won’t know what hit him. And then you can document what happens on your blog. Mark my words, readers will love this.”
“Did you even hear what I said?” Julia reminded her friend. “I can tell you right now kindness isn’t going to affect him one way or the other.”
“You won’t know until you try.”
Julia bit down on her lower lip as visions of winning that highly paid position swirled in her head.
…Maybe she could treat Cain Maddox’s surly mood with extra doses of nice. It would be an interesting test of the power of kindness. As a bonus, she wouldn’t need to stress about content for her blog. She would simply be reporting the results. Easy-peasy.
This conversation happens at 12%, which is when the reader knows exactly what’s going to happen and how it’s going to happen. And sure enough, it does.
Ya shoulda told him before he found out, Julia.
December 16, 2018
Debbie Macomber knows how to deliver a fun, lighthearted romance. This one will give you the warm fuzzies and have you smiling all day!
Twelve Days of Christmas shows us how powerful showing kindness can be... not only to the receiver, but to the giver as well. This is the perfect Christmas read that will warm your heart and get you in the Christmas spirit! Highly Recommend.
Twelve Days of Christmas shows us how powerful showing kindness can be... not only to the receiver, but to the giver as well. This is the perfect Christmas read that will warm your heart and get you in the Christmas spirit! Highly Recommend.
December 31, 2019
***3, 5 stars***
This was a quick holiday read.
The story is cute, albeit a bit predictable, but nevertheless very enjoyable.
We are introduced to two very different characters, cheerful Julie and her bitter neighbor Cain.
After a few unpleasant meetings in their building hallway, Julie comes to the conclusion that she can't stand Cain. He is just so rude, a real Scrooge, that she decides to do a 12 day challenge of killing him with kindness.
The story proves that when you treat even the worst people with kindness, the results can be amazing. And I think that if the "killing with kindness" experiment would be repeated by people irl, the world could be a better place.
So if you're looking for a cute holiday book, read this. Then see if there is someone in your neighborhood who needs kindness and apply whatever kindness you are able to give. I'll give that a try too 😊
This was a quick holiday read.
The story is cute, albeit a bit predictable, but nevertheless very enjoyable.
We are introduced to two very different characters, cheerful Julie and her bitter neighbor Cain.
After a few unpleasant meetings in their building hallway, Julie comes to the conclusion that she can't stand Cain. He is just so rude, a real Scrooge, that she decides to do a 12 day challenge of killing him with kindness.
The story proves that when you treat even the worst people with kindness, the results can be amazing. And I think that if the "killing with kindness" experiment would be repeated by people irl, the world could be a better place.
So if you're looking for a cute holiday book, read this. Then see if there is someone in your neighborhood who needs kindness and apply whatever kindness you are able to give. I'll give that a try too 😊
December 18, 2022
Twelve Days of Christmas by Debbie Macomber
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
A delightful Christmas read I really enjoyed. The main character Julia Padden sets out to break through to her rude Scrooge of a neighbour Cain Maddox by killing him with kindness. Julia starts a blog called The Twelve Days of Christmas which catches on quickly to many readers. I loved reading the challenges she encounter try to crack Scrooge!
⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2
A delightful Christmas read I really enjoyed. The main character Julia Padden sets out to break through to her rude Scrooge of a neighbour Cain Maddox by killing him with kindness. Julia starts a blog called The Twelve Days of Christmas which catches on quickly to many readers. I loved reading the challenges she encounter try to crack Scrooge!
December 8, 2019
2.25 stars. Julia plays Mary Sue like it’s an eXtreme sport. I actually thought there was going to be a plot point explaining that she was trying to fill some void in her soul by running herself ragged with volunteer work. Nope. She comes from a loving family.
Cain is also a pro athlete, but in the negative motivation department. This guy does the whole “I trusted a woman with my heart this one time, and she burned me. So, because I failed once, I vow to never trust or love again.”
BUT WAIT. It gets better. Because his grandma, the only woman who ever loved him, used to bake him chocolate chip cookies before she died...he will never eat one again. An entire lifetime devoid of love AND chocolate chip cookies? Why even bother getting out of bed? Gold medal drama queen.
It was a cute, predictable story. Mary Sue decides to kill cranky Drama Llama with kindness, and blog about the results. The rest of the story unfolds exactly how you think it will. It’s enjoyable enough, if you can put your critical thinking on pause.
Cain is also a pro athlete, but in the negative motivation department. This guy does the whole “I trusted a woman with my heart this one time, and she burned me. So, because I failed once, I vow to never trust or love again.”
BUT WAIT. It gets better. Because his grandma, the only woman who ever loved him, used to bake him chocolate chip cookies before she died...he will never eat one again. An entire lifetime devoid of love AND chocolate chip cookies? Why even bother getting out of bed? Gold medal drama queen.
It was a cute, predictable story. Mary Sue decides to kill cranky Drama Llama with kindness, and blog about the results. The rest of the story unfolds exactly how you think it will. It’s enjoyable enough, if you can put your critical thinking on pause.
October 19, 2016
This is a love story that starts with a blog. Julia has a neighbor, Cain, who seems a bit grumpy and very unfriendly. Julia's smile in the morning rivals the sun. They both leave for work at approximately the same time, so they share the elevator several days a week. She always greets him with Good Morning! and he mostly grunts at her and departs the elevator as soon as he possibly can.
But the day he stole her newspaper was the final straw as far as she was concerned. Her best friend made a suggestion .. kill him ... kill him with kindness.
It just so happens that for a job, she must start a blog and run it for a month. She's in competition with someone else, and now is the perfect time to start that blog.
Titled The Twelve Days of Christmas, Julia starts blogging about her neighbor, Ebeneezer, and imparts her plan to kill him with kindness. Day by day, she writes about her attempts to get him to smile, to say Good Morning, to just be a more agreeable person.
But Cain has trust issues, and not knowing about the blog for a job, he assumes she just wants something .. and her Miss Pollyanna attitude is driving him crazy.
Slowly but surely she chips away and finds a totally different man underneath. He does have a heart ... he is caring ... and she's falling for him in a big way.
And even if Cain returns her feelings, what will happen when he learns that he's been used to gain a job?
This was a fast, fun romp. I haven't read a Christmas-themed romance in a very long time and I'm really happy to have chosen this one. I liked the characters, although at times Julia's shiny personality shone a little bit too bright and Cain was a tad too dark. But I did enjoy the way they played off of each other.
I know it's a bit early for Christmas, but this author writes stories from and for the heart. In the mood for some romance ... try this one. You won't be disappointed.
Many thanks to the author / Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine / Netgalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
But the day he stole her newspaper was the final straw as far as she was concerned. Her best friend made a suggestion .. kill him ... kill him with kindness.
It just so happens that for a job, she must start a blog and run it for a month. She's in competition with someone else, and now is the perfect time to start that blog.
Titled The Twelve Days of Christmas, Julia starts blogging about her neighbor, Ebeneezer, and imparts her plan to kill him with kindness. Day by day, she writes about her attempts to get him to smile, to say Good Morning, to just be a more agreeable person.
But Cain has trust issues, and not knowing about the blog for a job, he assumes she just wants something .. and her Miss Pollyanna attitude is driving him crazy.
Slowly but surely she chips away and finds a totally different man underneath. He does have a heart ... he is caring ... and she's falling for him in a big way.
And even if Cain returns her feelings, what will happen when he learns that he's been used to gain a job?
This was a fast, fun romp. I haven't read a Christmas-themed romance in a very long time and I'm really happy to have chosen this one. I liked the characters, although at times Julia's shiny personality shone a little bit too bright and Cain was a tad too dark. But I did enjoy the way they played off of each other.
I know it's a bit early for Christmas, but this author writes stories from and for the heart. In the mood for some romance ... try this one. You won't be disappointed.
Many thanks to the author / Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine / Netgalley who provided a digital copy in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
December 20, 2016
This book was a Hallmark/Lifetime movie with a good message of being kind to others.
December 26, 2016
A good holiday romance read.
November 7, 2016
Title: Twelve Days Of Christmas
Author: Debbie Macomber
Publisher Random House & Publishing Group
Reviewed By: Arlena Dean
Rating: Five
Review:
"Twelve Days Of Christmas" by Debbie Macomber
My Thoughts...
What a sweet Christmas romance story that this author brings to the readers. The two main characters Julia and Cain were definitely good for each other after it was all said and done. I loved how this author was able to give the readers of a read of one showing kindness that turns into after a few twist and turns a HEA. We find from this story there was a act of kindness coming from Julia to Cain...from delivery of a newspaper to his door, cookies, being quite a challenge .... all of this to see if it would make a difference in the way he treated her. Now, why was Julia doing this? She had gotten this idea from her best friend Cammie to use on her blog page featuring [Ebenezer who was Cain] that Julia needed in order to complete for a position she was working on for social media for 'Havestware.' How will this come out when Julia finds out that her neighbor who had trust issues from a previous situation? Will this experiment prove that kindness did make a different? What will Cain think about Julia especially after he learns about her blog and the feelings they had developed for each other? What happens when a news reporter there in Seattle after seeing her blog page ask Julia about a interview with her and Ebenezer? What will happen when Julia finally tell Cain about this experiment...and her blog? Will she be able to keep this a secret from Cain until after Christmas? Will Julia and Cain finally get the love and understanding they needed from each other? Well, to get all of these questions answered ... this is where I say you will have to pick up "Twelve Days Of Christmas" to find out how this story will come out. I loved the secondary characters who were well developed, portrayed and believable that will keep you turning the pages till the end. I will add that I loved the epilogue and you will too!
October 21, 2016
What a delightful light read! When there is a promotion at work available to the person who gets the most new blog followers. Julia, is Ms. Sunshine with a bubbly personality and her across the hall neighbor in her apartment building, Cain is anything but. Talking to her best friend Cammie, Julia mentions Cain and Cammie suggests she "kill him" . Kill him with kindness that is she says. Julia decides to blog about her challenge for her job calling it Twelve Day Of Christmas.
She secretly nicknames Cain, Ebenezer in her blog posts. Her posts and blog become immensely popular and she gets many new followers. As she is killing him with kindness he starts to come around and respond to her kindness. She meets his grandfather, Bernie whom he is very protective of and he gives her a bit of an insight into why Cain is the way he is.
She takes care of him during the time he has the flu and even though she had a flu shot she gets sick as well and he is there for her. She invites both of them for Christmas dinner and they both agree to come. A reporter reads her blog and loving the updates wants to interview both of them and she says no and he just happens to be in the lobby at the same time and hears the reporter asking her about the interview. He feels betrayed to find out he is the subject of a blog challenge and he feels he is once again being used by a woman to advance her job just like in his last relationship. The day comes when the Christmas dinner is held and the 3 of them are there at her apartment but Cain is standoffish and argumentative. That changes quickly when Grandpa has a medical emergency and an ambulance has to be called. That quickly puts things back into perspective and Cain realizes what's important. Is it the love of a good woman or is it more important for him to stay behind a wall protecting his heart?
She secretly nicknames Cain, Ebenezer in her blog posts. Her posts and blog become immensely popular and she gets many new followers. As she is killing him with kindness he starts to come around and respond to her kindness. She meets his grandfather, Bernie whom he is very protective of and he gives her a bit of an insight into why Cain is the way he is.
She takes care of him during the time he has the flu and even though she had a flu shot she gets sick as well and he is there for her. She invites both of them for Christmas dinner and they both agree to come. A reporter reads her blog and loving the updates wants to interview both of them and she says no and he just happens to be in the lobby at the same time and hears the reporter asking her about the interview. He feels betrayed to find out he is the subject of a blog challenge and he feels he is once again being used by a woman to advance her job just like in his last relationship. The day comes when the Christmas dinner is held and the 3 of them are there at her apartment but Cain is standoffish and argumentative. That changes quickly when Grandpa has a medical emergency and an ambulance has to be called. That quickly puts things back into perspective and Cain realizes what's important. Is it the love of a good woman or is it more important for him to stay behind a wall protecting his heart?
December 19, 2022
Well that was a quick read!
I super enjoyed this and it took my mind off my cancelled Christmas flight home today :(
We follow Julia who is apartment neighbours with a total grump, Cain. She decided to "kill him with kindness" this season in an attempt to melt his Ebenezer heart. She starts a blog to chronicle her efforts, which was actually fun to read as well!
The romance was clean and there wasn't any language that I could remember.
It did feel like the romance went from slow burn to super into each other really fast, but it was a Christmas love story after all.
I liked it a lot and I would recommend it!
I super enjoyed this and it took my mind off my cancelled Christmas flight home today :(
We follow Julia who is apartment neighbours with a total grump, Cain. She decided to "kill him with kindness" this season in an attempt to melt his Ebenezer heart. She starts a blog to chronicle her efforts, which was actually fun to read as well!
The romance was clean and there wasn't any language that I could remember.
It did feel like the romance went from slow burn to super into each other really fast, but it was a Christmas love story after all.
I liked it a lot and I would recommend it!
October 14, 2016
What a heartwarming and fun loving Christmas romance story! I enjoyed every minute of the story and hated to see it end.
Julia the happy morning person who is always bubbly over keeps running into her neighbor from across the hall Cain who she thinks of as Scrooge. So she decides she is going to kill him with kindness for the 12 days to Christmas and see if she can change him. Will she succeed? Read the book today to see how it all turns out.
This would make for an awesome Christmas movie!
Julia the happy morning person who is always bubbly over keeps running into her neighbor from across the hall Cain who she thinks of as Scrooge. So she decides she is going to kill him with kindness for the 12 days to Christmas and see if she can change him. Will she succeed? Read the book today to see how it all turns out.
This would make for an awesome Christmas movie!
September 29, 2016
Received from the publishers and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Julia meets her neighbor Cain and each instantly takes a dislike for the other. Julia is very bubbly and friendly. Cain is very standoffish and keeps to himself. When Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper after his was taken, she decides she needs to do something. After speaking with a close friend, she decides to "kill him with kindness" and blog about it. Her blog is also this book's title "Twelve Days of Christmas". She goes out of her way to run into Cain "Ebenezer" each day in order to be nice to him. He makes every attempt to keep her at arms length. But as Julia will not be deterred. Her blogs readers encourage her to keep being nice to Scrooge and reporting back. Julia keeps being kind to him and slowly his touch demeanor begins to fade and he begins to be nice to her as well.
This is a predictable cute Christmas love story with the bubbly cute female and the brooding handsome male. The story line is light but charming. Macomber writes sweet clean romances. This is not a bodice ripper. No one will be offended by graphic sex scenes. This book is a light sweet read. I read this in one day. This book is perfect to read while cozying up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate.
I enjoy romance books/novels but one thing I absolutely do not like about them is the ABRUPT endings. The story builds, couples fall in love, there is angst, then someone says "I love you" and they have to get married immediately because their love just can't wait. I LOVE that this book did not rush the ending!! That's right, Macomber did not hit us with a fast abrupt ending. Thank You! The ending did not feel rushed at all and she even gave the reader an epilogue. Nice touch!
I think those how like romance books will really enjoy this. When the holiday season is upon us and you want to read a nice light book, grab this one.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
Julia meets her neighbor Cain and each instantly takes a dislike for the other. Julia is very bubbly and friendly. Cain is very standoffish and keeps to himself. When Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper after his was taken, she decides she needs to do something. After speaking with a close friend, she decides to "kill him with kindness" and blog about it. Her blog is also this book's title "Twelve Days of Christmas". She goes out of her way to run into Cain "Ebenezer" each day in order to be nice to him. He makes every attempt to keep her at arms length. But as Julia will not be deterred. Her blogs readers encourage her to keep being nice to Scrooge and reporting back. Julia keeps being kind to him and slowly his touch demeanor begins to fade and he begins to be nice to her as well.
This is a predictable cute Christmas love story with the bubbly cute female and the brooding handsome male. The story line is light but charming. Macomber writes sweet clean romances. This is not a bodice ripper. No one will be offended by graphic sex scenes. This book is a light sweet read. I read this in one day. This book is perfect to read while cozying up on the couch with a mug of hot chocolate.
I enjoy romance books/novels but one thing I absolutely do not like about them is the ABRUPT endings. The story builds, couples fall in love, there is angst, then someone says "I love you" and they have to get married immediately because their love just can't wait. I LOVE that this book did not rush the ending!! That's right, Macomber did not hit us with a fast abrupt ending. Thank You! The ending did not feel rushed at all and she even gave the reader an epilogue. Nice touch!
I think those how like romance books will really enjoy this. When the holiday season is upon us and you want to read a nice light book, grab this one.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookpost.com
August 26, 2016
I think the term "Like a Hallmark Movie" will be thrown a lot to describe/review this book. I personally think that is apt and at the same time will give you an idea what to expect.
On the downside, I thought there were quite minimal character development. Cain, at least has a background that might make it enough to explain his attitude. I could see why he has trust issues and not exactly nurturing a sunny disposition.
But Julia? Julia is a little too perfect for my taste. She's perky and upbeat, she's good at baking cookies, she volunteers, she helps kids on a holiday program ... there is nothing wrong with this woman (oh, except for maybe using her blog to capture the 'project' progress she has with Cain). I think I might end up being a Scrooge myself around her *lol*.
On the plus side, just like a Hallmark movie, it comes with very good LIFE message ... to "kill people with kindness". There is nothing wrong with being kind to others because it might just help you as much as the other person, and give you a whole new outlook about lives. Being kind is good for your karma :). Considering this is a holiday book, despite myself reading it in August, it is a wonderful reminder for everyone to start doing it.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
On the downside, I thought there were quite minimal character development. Cain, at least has a background that might make it enough to explain his attitude. I could see why he has trust issues and not exactly nurturing a sunny disposition.
But Julia? Julia is a little too perfect for my taste. She's perky and upbeat, she's good at baking cookies, she volunteers, she helps kids on a holiday program ... there is nothing wrong with this woman (oh, except for maybe using her blog to capture the 'project' progress she has with Cain). I think I might end up being a Scrooge myself around her *lol*.
On the plus side, just like a Hallmark movie, it comes with very good LIFE message ... to "kill people with kindness". There is nothing wrong with being kind to others because it might just help you as much as the other person, and give you a whole new outlook about lives. Being kind is good for your karma :). Considering this is a holiday book, despite myself reading it in August, it is a wonderful reminder for everyone to start doing it.
The ARC is provided by the publisher via Netgalley for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
November 22, 2017
I think this book served its purpose. It was fun and entertaining and I had been looking for something light to read, so this was great.
Obviously, since it only takes place over 12 days, the story line is rushed and relationships are formed more quickly than average, but I didn't go in expecting anything different.
I love hate-to-love relationships and this was a pretty mild one, but still enjoyable all the same.
I will say, the romance made me cringe at times (I mean if he's an ass, what is the appeal? None for me). The story line was cheesy and the writing was kind of underwhelming, but I had fun reading it, and that's what counts, right? I would LOVE to see this as a movie.
Obviously, since it only takes place over 12 days, the story line is rushed and relationships are formed more quickly than average, but I didn't go in expecting anything different.
I love hate-to-love relationships and this was a pretty mild one, but still enjoyable all the same.
I will say, the romance made me cringe at times (I mean if he's an ass, what is the appeal? None for me). The story line was cheesy and the writing was kind of underwhelming, but I had fun reading it, and that's what counts, right? I would LOVE to see this as a movie.
December 14, 2025
Twelve Days of Christmas by Debbie Macomber
Contemporary Christmas romance. Clean, closed door.
Julia Padden is friendly and happy. She commutes to work and happily interacts with everyone she meets. Finding her neighbor, Cain Maddox stealing her newspaper is unexpected. He’s grumpy and doesn’t care that’s she inconvenienced. Since it wasn’t her first negative encounter with Cain, she decides to go a bit overboard and “kill him with kindness”. The experiment starts with bumps and rejection but her continued cheerfulness soon has Cain noticing and mellowing a bit at a time. When he finally turns his attitude around for her, she now has to fess up to making him famous via a blog she’s written about him. With a reporter sniffing around, it’s no longer an anonymous finger pointing. How is she going to explain the blog now that they are becoming more than friends?
Cain is busy and just trying to get through the day. But he can’t help noticing Julia, especially when she’s feeding him cookies.
Sweet and charming holiday romance. Includes an epilogue for that perfect finishing touch.
Contemporary Christmas romance. Clean, closed door.
Julia Padden is friendly and happy. She commutes to work and happily interacts with everyone she meets. Finding her neighbor, Cain Maddox stealing her newspaper is unexpected. He’s grumpy and doesn’t care that’s she inconvenienced. Since it wasn’t her first negative encounter with Cain, she decides to go a bit overboard and “kill him with kindness”. The experiment starts with bumps and rejection but her continued cheerfulness soon has Cain noticing and mellowing a bit at a time. When he finally turns his attitude around for her, she now has to fess up to making him famous via a blog she’s written about him. With a reporter sniffing around, it’s no longer an anonymous finger pointing. How is she going to explain the blog now that they are becoming more than friends?
Cain is busy and just trying to get through the day. But he can’t help noticing Julia, especially when she’s feeding him cookies.
Sweet and charming holiday romance. Includes an epilogue for that perfect finishing touch.
November 7, 2019
I breezed through Twelve Days of Christmas. I mostly listened to it on audio but also had the ebook checked out so I could follow along. (Yes, I’m one of those people)
Honestly I think so far out of all the Debbie Macomber romances I’ve read, this one was one of the more actual romantic stories. It follows Julia and Cain who are neighbors. Cain is a complete jerk in the beginning of the story, such a grouch! Julia’s best friend tells her to kill him...with Kindness. Julia has applied for a social media job and it is narrowed down to her and one other applicant. They are told to create blogs and the blogger who reaches the most subscribers gets the job. Julia decides to use her kill him with kindness project as the reason for her blog.
Killing Cain with kindness however turns not only her blog into a success but feelings between the two start to grow.
Like I stated earlier, I felt this was one of Debbie’s more romantic books. The things Cain and Julia say to each other once they realize they have feelings for each other had me all in my feelings! They were so sweet. And in true Debbie Macomber style, this book reflected the power of kindness. There is a reason behind everything and you never know..it may suck at first being the nice one but you never know what it may mean to the other person.
Honestly I think so far out of all the Debbie Macomber romances I’ve read, this one was one of the more actual romantic stories. It follows Julia and Cain who are neighbors. Cain is a complete jerk in the beginning of the story, such a grouch! Julia’s best friend tells her to kill him...with Kindness. Julia has applied for a social media job and it is narrowed down to her and one other applicant. They are told to create blogs and the blogger who reaches the most subscribers gets the job. Julia decides to use her kill him with kindness project as the reason for her blog.
Killing Cain with kindness however turns not only her blog into a success but feelings between the two start to grow.
Like I stated earlier, I felt this was one of Debbie’s more romantic books. The things Cain and Julia say to each other once they realize they have feelings for each other had me all in my feelings! They were so sweet. And in true Debbie Macomber style, this book reflected the power of kindness. There is a reason behind everything and you never know..it may suck at first being the nice one but you never know what it may mean to the other person.
December 20, 2021
I’m not a huge Debbie Macomber fan, but was
REALLY into this book - like 5 stars, planned on reading it every Christmas into it. THEN the heroine got the flu and her love interest had to help her - a trope I’m 1000% into, btw. But when he asks her how he can help (because she’s tres dizzy) she says she needs help getting something from the bathroom. And when he asks what it is she says SHE NEEDS HIM TO GET THE SCALE DOWN SO SHE CAN SEE IF SHE LOST ANY WEIGHT FROM THROWING UP. I thought “surely - SURELY she’s going to be like ‘oh no I’ve lost a lot of water weight I must be really dehydrated please get me a glass of water’” BUT NOPE. She actually says “oh good I lost 5 pounds.” Are we seriously still having this “yay I lost weight when I was sick” conversation?? Don’t mean to overreact but wait I don’t think I am. 😡
REALLY into this book - like 5 stars, planned on reading it every Christmas into it. THEN the heroine got the flu and her love interest had to help her - a trope I’m 1000% into, btw. But when he asks her how he can help (because she’s tres dizzy) she says she needs help getting something from the bathroom. And when he asks what it is she says SHE NEEDS HIM TO GET THE SCALE DOWN SO SHE CAN SEE IF SHE LOST ANY WEIGHT FROM THROWING UP. I thought “surely - SURELY she’s going to be like ‘oh no I’ve lost a lot of water weight I must be really dehydrated please get me a glass of water’” BUT NOPE. She actually says “oh good I lost 5 pounds.” Are we seriously still having this “yay I lost weight when I was sick” conversation?? Don’t mean to overreact but wait I don’t think I am. 😡
January 9, 2018
4.60 stars - pg13
November 24, 2020
Ugh - this was just over the top. It was predictable from chapter one, unbelievable, and just not great. I couldn't care less about either of the characters and it took willpower for me to finish it to the end. Julia is a happy cheerful person - she greets everyone hello, remembers her bar barista's name, and volunteers all over Seattle. While "auditioning" for a job she has to create a blog and if she has more readers and hits then the other candidates she'll get her dream job. The only problem is she doesn't know what to write about. Her friend tells her that she should kill her neighbor... with kindness. Her apartment neighbor, Caine, is a short tempered brute and Julia decides that her blog will center on 12 days of kindness. What she doesn't imagine is that they'll fall in love. It's not believable - it happens very fast - and I don't care how sad his childhood was - he's a jerk. What will happen if he finds out she's been blogging about all this - oh no?! Predictable and unbelievable. The book did not fill me with kindness - it filled me with impatience.
October 6, 2016
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Bring on the holidays! Ms. Macomber is back doing what she does best, writing a heartwarming holiday story with memorable characters that can be treasured and reread each year. This hooks you in right from the start with two people who dislike each other and a fun blog that is more entertaining to read with each one. I love this type of story especially closer to Christmas when everything is so festive. If you want sweet romances with an engaging plot, then you'll love this author as much as I do.
Bring on the holidays! Ms. Macomber is back doing what she does best, writing a heartwarming holiday story with memorable characters that can be treasured and reread each year. This hooks you in right from the start with two people who dislike each other and a fun blog that is more entertaining to read with each one. I love this type of story especially closer to Christmas when everything is so festive. If you want sweet romances with an engaging plot, then you'll love this author as much as I do.
March 25, 2025
3 stars, it was like if hallmark made a book 😂 but it was kinda funny.😆
October 5, 2024
"As a kid I can remember my mother telling me that our lives are merely a reflection of what we see and do. If we are kind, others will treat us with kindness. If we love, we will be loved. If we care, we will be cared for."
"Being kind is like looking at your own reflection in the calm waters of a lake. Then the act of kindness ripples those waters, like a stone tossed upon the surface."
"If kindness can alter two people's attitudes toward each other, just imagine what it could do to change our world, one relationship at a time."
"Twelve Days of Christmas" is such a sweet, romantic and funny story. I smiled, happy sighed and cracked up. I enjoyed the interaction between main characters Julia (Ms. Sunshine) and Cain (Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge.) Julia and Cain are apartment neighbors, and their personalities are a major contrast. Julia tries to be nice to Cain, but he is always rude and unfriendly. Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper, and at that moment Julia has had enough of Cain's disrespectfulness. Julia tells her best friend, Cammie, about Cain. Cammie comes up with the perfect solution. Julia is trying to land a social media job, and in order to do so, she has to outdo another candidate by having the most blog followers. Julia's blog has never had a lot of followers, and her readers mainly consisted of family and friends. Cammie's suggestion is for Julia to kill Cain with kindness and post her progress on her blog in order to gain followers. Julia names her kindness project "Twelve Days of Christmas." Can Julia break through Cain's tough exterior within twelve days? Will her blog be a success, and can she keep it a secret from Cain at the same time? I had so much fun reading this book. Julia's blog readers were hilarious. I was constantly laughing at their comments and suggestions. I really liked Cain's grandfather, Bernie. He added a lot to the story and made it so special. Overall, this was a great Christmas read. The epilogue was really sweet and satisfying. I definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more Debbie Macomber stories.
"Being kind is like looking at your own reflection in the calm waters of a lake. Then the act of kindness ripples those waters, like a stone tossed upon the surface."
"If kindness can alter two people's attitudes toward each other, just imagine what it could do to change our world, one relationship at a time."
"Twelve Days of Christmas" is such a sweet, romantic and funny story. I smiled, happy sighed and cracked up. I enjoyed the interaction between main characters Julia (Ms. Sunshine) and Cain (Mr. Ebenezer Scrooge.) Julia and Cain are apartment neighbors, and their personalities are a major contrast. Julia tries to be nice to Cain, but he is always rude and unfriendly. Julia catches Cain stealing her newspaper, and at that moment Julia has had enough of Cain's disrespectfulness. Julia tells her best friend, Cammie, about Cain. Cammie comes up with the perfect solution. Julia is trying to land a social media job, and in order to do so, she has to outdo another candidate by having the most blog followers. Julia's blog has never had a lot of followers, and her readers mainly consisted of family and friends. Cammie's suggestion is for Julia to kill Cain with kindness and post her progress on her blog in order to gain followers. Julia names her kindness project "Twelve Days of Christmas." Can Julia break through Cain's tough exterior within twelve days? Will her blog be a success, and can she keep it a secret from Cain at the same time? I had so much fun reading this book. Julia's blog readers were hilarious. I was constantly laughing at their comments and suggestions. I really liked Cain's grandfather, Bernie. He added a lot to the story and made it so special. Overall, this was a great Christmas read. The epilogue was really sweet and satisfying. I definitely recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more Debbie Macomber stories.
July 24, 2018
I bought this book by accident. I'd never intended to purchase two books by the same author for my Twelve Books of Christmas (2018) challenge. Ordinarily the way I handle authors I've never read is to take a bite-sized sample of their work and decide from there whether they are an author I'd like to read again. Generally speaking, I read favorite authors more than twice. Most others fall by the wayside.
So why did I pick up not one, but two books by a romance author I'd never read? I'm not even particularly fond of romance novels!
I wasn't thinking, for one. For another, I was actually having trouble finding holiday-themed books. In this department, Debbie Macomber is quite prolific.
Well, I learned something, at least. I will never knowingly purchase another Debbie Macomber book. In fact, I'll be careful to check the cover for her name before I buy romantic books in the future. Because yes, it's that bad.
Let me talk bout the main thing, first (and hope I remember to get back into the other review to add this in there, too, for those only seeing one or the other).
When I read a holiday novel, I want to be immersed in the holidays. I want to feel Christmas in my bones, even if I'm reading in canicular July. I want the spirit of the holidays to fill me up from the inside out. I want to feel the pressing need to bake cookies, trim the tree, and light candles.
I know some people have reviewed this book and some of her other holiday novels and claimed it made them feel all these things.
Well. Not me. Maybe I'm a humbug, but this book (and Merry and Bright) read to me as though Christmas was merely a convenience, a way to apply a cute, snowy cover and boost holiday sales. It did not do it for me.
Please understand, these are far from the first Christmas novels I've read. They are merely the worst. How Macomber's Christmas books are so popular beats me.
You're probably asking yourself what I do want. "Feeling of Christmas" is pretty vague, isn't it?
I want atmosphere, and setting. I want cozying down by a fire, the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping for (or with!) friends and family. I want ice skating, snow falling softly outside the window, the excited buzz of spending time with loved ones. I want parties and lights, and I want the author to describe these things in a way which delights my imagination. Instead, this book, and the other I read, sort of drenched that imagination in a wet blanket.
I'm sure some of you would argue this is deliberate, intentional, designed to help the reader to make up their own mind about what this setting looks like. Some readers like that. Not me. I want richness of language, descriptive settings, a world in which the characters come alive. I got none of that.
In either book.
Now here's where things get weird and sort of, well, uncomfortable for me. It's hard to put this information in the first book I read, because it took two to understand it.
Here's the main thing. The stand-out WTF moment I had while reading.
In both books there's a dog named Bogie.
Not just A dog. A dog named Bogie.
I'm confident this name has some significance to the author, but as a reader, this was uncomfortable for me. It pulled me out of the story to note the similarity between the two books. I found it odd and looked for a connection, but the dogs were different breeds (one was a Golden Retriever, and the other I can't remember).
Yes, that bothered me.
The other thing which bothered me, and which these two books have in common, is the male characterization.
Alright, alright. Let me back up.
I don't like her characterization, period. The women are bubbly and happy and bright and enthusiastic and peppy and perfect apart from their minor flaws (which both, ironically, involve their internet habits). They are poorly developed, similar to one another, and honestly boring. They don't read like real women. And this is coming from a woman who does her level best to maintain a positive energy and to spread high vibrations everywhere she goes. (I'm sure this doesn't come through my book reviews, but it remains true anyway.)
They just aren't fully realized people, and I want that in the stories I read. Maybe I even need it. (And maybe I'm taking myself, and these books, way too seriously.)
There are a lot of things I dislike about these books, but the main thing -- the SINGLE THING -- which disgusts me about Debbie Macomber's work is her clear disdain for men. It's as though in her perception women are such perfect creatures they are barely touched by flaws, while men are so loathesome they are made up entirely of flaws with one tiny snip of a worthwhile trait.
These men are deplorable until they suddenly are not. Not only do they rapidly change their minds about people they previously disliked for any number of reasons, but their entire personalities take a dramatic turn at some point within the story line.
With all of this going on, as though I need one more reason to dislike this book, I think it sends a really garbage message to readers.
Please, PLEASE, do not poke the introvert!
We introverts really do want to be left alone. You're not helping us by invading our privacy, pushing yourself on us, or trying to drag us (kicking and screaming) out of our shells. What Julia does to Cain in this book is reprehensible and you should not follow her lead. It's neither cute nor funny, and I'm not talking about the blog she creates for the Twelve Days of Christmas -- I'm talking about pushing herself on this very introverted man who sincerely wants to be left alone.
All around just a crummy book. I won't be purchasing nor reading any more from Debbie Macomber.
So why did I pick up not one, but two books by a romance author I'd never read? I'm not even particularly fond of romance novels!
I wasn't thinking, for one. For another, I was actually having trouble finding holiday-themed books. In this department, Debbie Macomber is quite prolific.
Well, I learned something, at least. I will never knowingly purchase another Debbie Macomber book. In fact, I'll be careful to check the cover for her name before I buy romantic books in the future. Because yes, it's that bad.
Let me talk bout the main thing, first (and hope I remember to get back into the other review to add this in there, too, for those only seeing one or the other).
When I read a holiday novel, I want to be immersed in the holidays. I want to feel Christmas in my bones, even if I'm reading in canicular July. I want the spirit of the holidays to fill me up from the inside out. I want to feel the pressing need to bake cookies, trim the tree, and light candles.
I know some people have reviewed this book and some of her other holiday novels and claimed it made them feel all these things.
Well. Not me. Maybe I'm a humbug, but this book (and Merry and Bright) read to me as though Christmas was merely a convenience, a way to apply a cute, snowy cover and boost holiday sales. It did not do it for me.
Please understand, these are far from the first Christmas novels I've read. They are merely the worst. How Macomber's Christmas books are so popular beats me.
You're probably asking yourself what I do want. "Feeling of Christmas" is pretty vague, isn't it?
I want atmosphere, and setting. I want cozying down by a fire, the hustle and bustle of Christmas shopping for (or with!) friends and family. I want ice skating, snow falling softly outside the window, the excited buzz of spending time with loved ones. I want parties and lights, and I want the author to describe these things in a way which delights my imagination. Instead, this book, and the other I read, sort of drenched that imagination in a wet blanket.
I'm sure some of you would argue this is deliberate, intentional, designed to help the reader to make up their own mind about what this setting looks like. Some readers like that. Not me. I want richness of language, descriptive settings, a world in which the characters come alive. I got none of that.
In either book.
Now here's where things get weird and sort of, well, uncomfortable for me. It's hard to put this information in the first book I read, because it took two to understand it.
Here's the main thing. The stand-out WTF moment I had while reading.
In both books there's a dog named Bogie.
Not just A dog. A dog named Bogie.
I'm confident this name has some significance to the author, but as a reader, this was uncomfortable for me. It pulled me out of the story to note the similarity between the two books. I found it odd and looked for a connection, but the dogs were different breeds (one was a Golden Retriever, and the other I can't remember).
Yes, that bothered me.
The other thing which bothered me, and which these two books have in common, is the male characterization.
Alright, alright. Let me back up.
I don't like her characterization, period. The women are bubbly and happy and bright and enthusiastic and peppy and perfect apart from their minor flaws (which both, ironically, involve their internet habits). They are poorly developed, similar to one another, and honestly boring. They don't read like real women. And this is coming from a woman who does her level best to maintain a positive energy and to spread high vibrations everywhere she goes. (I'm sure this doesn't come through my book reviews, but it remains true anyway.)
They just aren't fully realized people, and I want that in the stories I read. Maybe I even need it. (And maybe I'm taking myself, and these books, way too seriously.)
There are a lot of things I dislike about these books, but the main thing -- the SINGLE THING -- which disgusts me about Debbie Macomber's work is her clear disdain for men. It's as though in her perception women are such perfect creatures they are barely touched by flaws, while men are so loathesome they are made up entirely of flaws with one tiny snip of a worthwhile trait.
These men are deplorable until they suddenly are not. Not only do they rapidly change their minds about people they previously disliked for any number of reasons, but their entire personalities take a dramatic turn at some point within the story line.
With all of this going on, as though I need one more reason to dislike this book, I think it sends a really garbage message to readers.
Please, PLEASE, do not poke the introvert!
We introverts really do want to be left alone. You're not helping us by invading our privacy, pushing yourself on us, or trying to drag us (kicking and screaming) out of our shells. What Julia does to Cain in this book is reprehensible and you should not follow her lead. It's neither cute nor funny, and I'm not talking about the blog she creates for the Twelve Days of Christmas -- I'm talking about pushing herself on this very introverted man who sincerely wants to be left alone.
All around just a crummy book. I won't be purchasing nor reading any more from Debbie Macomber.
December 26, 2023
What a lovely Christmas book!🎄🥰💕
This filled me up with all the holiday cheer. This was a super quick read for me. I couldn’t put the book down. I couldn’t wait to see the relationship blossom between Cain and Julia. This was just the holiday story I was looking for. This was my first Debbie Macomber book. I’m looking forward to giving another one of her books a try.
This filled me up with all the holiday cheer. This was a super quick read for me. I couldn’t put the book down. I couldn’t wait to see the relationship blossom between Cain and Julia. This was just the holiday story I was looking for. This was my first Debbie Macomber book. I’m looking forward to giving another one of her books a try.
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