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The Night Before
Ava couldn’t believe she’d let her best friend talk her into coming to a mind numbing holiday party on the night before Christmas. As Ava counts the minutes before she can leave, all she can think about is how much she wants to snuggle up on the sofa with a crappy holiday movie and drink too much eggnog (with rum). That is, until an old classmate, Elias Young, sits next to her at the party. Elias is way too charming to be any good for her, but fate forces Ava to put that tired theory to the ultimate test. Is it happenstance? Serendipity? Or, is the night before Christmas also the night before everything Ava thinks she knows about love changes for good?
Unknown Binding
First published December 14, 2017
54 people are currently reading
180 people want to read
About the author
Jacinta Howard
21 books503 followersJacinta Howard is an Atlanta-based culture journalist, editor and author with more than a decade of experience across genres of media. Her bylined articles have appeared at Eater, Atlanta magazine, Shondaland, Denver Westword, BET, and Rock The Bells, LL Cool J’s media company, where she served as managing editor. Jacinta’s 2022 article about the chicken wings served at Magic City, Atlanta’s world-famous strip club, was nominated for an American Society of Magazine Editors Award, and her novels have been featured in USA Today, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, Book Riot and OkayAfrica. She digs summertime, flip flops, old fashioneds, deep bass lines, good lyrics, goofy jokes, and kind people. She also believes there’s an Andre 3000 lyric to fit any situation. Her happy place is hanging on the beach somewhere with her family, preferably with a good book and a dope playlist.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews
December 21, 2017
First read by Jacinta Howard. Great dialogue between likable characters. Smooth flowing storyline helped make this a great holiday read
July 30, 2023
Great novella. Should be a full-length novel.
The chemistry between Elias and Ava is just that good! Perfect couple, hope to meet them again in a future story!
The chemistry between Elias and Ava is just that good! Perfect couple, hope to meet them again in a future story!
December 10, 2021
The Night Before was a cute holiday love story. Ava and Elias clicked from the moment he sat next to her. There was so much good energy and chemistry between them. What I enjoyed most was the conversation between them. Even though Ava was annoyed when Elias interrupted her while she was reading her book in the middle of a holiday party, she still managed to engaged him with sexy banter, flirting, and some intimate conversations. Elias didn't let Ava's hesitation stop him one bit. He was persistent in his pursuit of her and finally got the girl he's been crushing on since high school. The Night Before is a quick romantic read that hits the spot for the holidays. I have several books by Jacinta Howard but, this is the first one I've actually ready and I really enjoyed it. But, what's up with The Morning After? The author's note said it was coming Winter 2018. Sis, it's Winter 2021! Where's book two?!!!
March 31, 2025
This was a cute holiday story. Definitely knew how it was going to play out but I enjoyed it.
December 24, 2017
The 🌙 Before (A Holiday Novella)
Lots of things touched me about Elias & Ava's 💘 connection. What stood out the most was her being unsure and his determination to get to know her.
Lots of things touched me about Elias & Ava's 💘 connection. What stood out the most was her being unsure and his determination to get to know her.
February 28, 2025
“You call, I’ll come.” This quote is so simple but is understood.
“People are going to judge no matter what you have going on. It’s how too many people build themselves up.”
First read from this author. Audiobook via hoopla.
What a really cute read with spice, banter, great conversation and just overall good chemistry between them. I enjoyed both characters but Elias took it for me. Having a crush on Ava since high school and now that he’s grown there’s no letting up. He really was on her in the most respectful and loving way. Definitely the type of man that can lead in a relationship while giving his partner all the love, support and respect they deserve. Can’t wait to check out more of this authors work.
“People are going to judge no matter what you have going on. It’s how too many people build themselves up.”
First read from this author. Audiobook via hoopla.
What a really cute read with spice, banter, great conversation and just overall good chemistry between them. I enjoyed both characters but Elias took it for me. Having a crush on Ava since high school and now that he’s grown there’s no letting up. He really was on her in the most respectful and loving way. Definitely the type of man that can lead in a relationship while giving his partner all the love, support and respect they deserve. Can’t wait to check out more of this authors work.
December 1, 2023
3.5 stars
December 16, 2017
Oh my
This was a great short story. Oh, Elias, that's what I can say about him. I need more on this couple. Actually, I need more on all Elias brothers. I needed more pages. Fantastic read!!!
This was a great short story. Oh, Elias, that's what I can say about him. I need more on this couple. Actually, I need more on all Elias brothers. I needed more pages. Fantastic read!!!
December 16, 2017
Merry XXXMas!
This felt like so much more than a novella. The chemistry between Elias and Ava was off the charts. They basically had a life changing experience overnight, but it didn’t feel as instantaneous as it was. In addition to their experience, we got a chance to meet the supporting characters as well.... they were an added bonus.
I love Christmas stories and this one ranks as one of the best that I’ve ever read!
This felt like so much more than a novella. The chemistry between Elias and Ava was off the charts. They basically had a life changing experience overnight, but it didn’t feel as instantaneous as it was. In addition to their experience, we got a chance to meet the supporting characters as well.... they were an added bonus.
I love Christmas stories and this one ranks as one of the best that I’ve ever read!
December 19, 2022
Definitely need a part two or series! Great holiday read!
December 23, 2017
So, you know how an author will say they are writing a novella and if it's an author you like you get a tinge of disappointment because you always want more from them, length-wise? Welp, I can't say that here! For a novella, this gave depth and had history thrown in there so readers are able to see why Ava and Elias behaved the way they did in certain situations. I find that sometimes, readers including myself avoid short reads because of lack of character development but Howard has a knack for creating passion with the flick of the wrist. Elias and Ava didn't feel like a rushed romance because and their progression to the end was well suited for how they met or better yet, reconnected. I like that the end wasn't your usual fast love ish you may see in other short reads.Their passion was palpable and left me wanting more of these two. I throughly enjoyed this holiday read and was a nice warm surprise on a chilly day.
December 16, 2017
Caught up!
This is my first book by ms jacinta and I must say it’s a good one! I love the holidays and it melts my heart to read about couples falling for one another durning such great time!! Ava is as sweet as ever and I understand where she comes from, not wanting to go thru another broken heart!! Elias is such the gentleman and he’s just what Ava need! It took her a min but she gave in and I hope to hear more from them and the brothers.. can we look forward to that!? Great job I will be reading more of your work
This is my first book by ms jacinta and I must say it’s a good one! I love the holidays and it melts my heart to read about couples falling for one another durning such great time!! Ava is as sweet as ever and I understand where she comes from, not wanting to go thru another broken heart!! Elias is such the gentleman and he’s just what Ava need! It took her a min but she gave in and I hope to hear more from them and the brothers.. can we look forward to that!? Great job I will be reading more of your work
December 19, 2017
This book was Christmas Magic!
I loved this couple , meeting and feeling each other as the did . The chemistry was so deep , it burst of the pages . Elias shoot how can you say no to a man like him? I felt this couple was on a different level than this author has written before , more mature , the connection was different in a good way . I want more from them , more from the other brothers . Please please give us more?!
I loved this couple , meeting and feeling each other as the did . The chemistry was so deep , it burst of the pages . Elias shoot how can you say no to a man like him? I felt this couple was on a different level than this author has written before , more mature , the connection was different in a good way . I want more from them , more from the other brothers . Please please give us more?!
December 19, 2019
It’s Christmas Eve and Ava is attending a party with her cousin...so bored that’s she’s in a corner reading a book. This is where Elias, someone from high school, finds and engages her in conversation. Bad weather and a power outage finds them sharing the holiday with his family, and all is going well until an ex shows up.
This novella by @jacinta.howard reminded me of the sweetest Lifetime or Hallmark Christmas movie. I highly recommend this 💎💎💎💎💎 read, and look forward to reading more.
This novella by @jacinta.howard reminded me of the sweetest Lifetime or Hallmark Christmas movie. I highly recommend this 💎💎💎💎💎 read, and look forward to reading more.
January 8, 2025
This was a really good and well put together novella. This should have been one of my Christmas reads!
Although Ava pissed me off for 2.5sec in the end, I didn’t completely hate her lol. Loved the conversations between Ava and Elias. It was easy to connect with and feel for the characters. I would listen to this one again.
Although Ava pissed me off for 2.5sec in the end, I didn’t completely hate her lol. Loved the conversations between Ava and Elias. It was easy to connect with and feel for the characters. I would listen to this one again.
December 21, 2017
This was a cute little love story. I love how Elias and Ava met and instantly clicked. I also loved how the Christmas theme was so well written throughout the stories. This was a really good Christmas novella
December 18, 2017
Great Holiday short.
January 3, 2018
Loved it and so wanted more! This was such a cute and romantic read. Looking forward to reading more from Jacinta.
December 25, 2017
I.NEED.MORE.
January 2, 2020
Ok
I liked the first meeting. I didn't like some parts in the middle. It was just a little going on. Overall this was just ok for me.
TW/CW: mention infant loss/SIDS
I liked the first meeting. I didn't like some parts in the middle. It was just a little going on. Overall this was just ok for me.
TW/CW: mention infant loss/SIDS
December 23, 2017
Absolutely!!!
Jacinta produced another amazing story to go along with the never ending lists of fabulous reads. I liked Elias from the start. He was a genuine sweetie. Loved the way Ava was allowed to be true to herself, and Elias had the chance to have a real love.
Jacinta produced another amazing story to go along with the never ending lists of fabulous reads. I liked Elias from the start. He was a genuine sweetie. Loved the way Ava was allowed to be true to herself, and Elias had the chance to have a real love.
June 25, 2020
4.5 stars
A nice, enjoyable, well-paced novella.
Feels a bit like a snuggle with someone who makes you laugh and you can feel their laughter building in their chest before you hear it. Which is always a good thing.
A nice, enjoyable, well-paced novella.
Feels a bit like a snuggle with someone who makes you laugh and you can feel their laughter building in their chest before you hear it. Which is always a good thing.
December 24, 2021
Sip Approved
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
The Night Before by Jacinta Howard
Drink: Eggnog and Bourbon with a pinch of Cinnamon
Music: Piece of Mind by Kehlani
Audible: Alyx Monroe, Winston James: This was our first story narrated by these two and they did a great job. They both made a point to change their voices for different characters; something we really enjoy. Alyx Monroe did a nice job bring an intelligent woman stuck in a rut to life. While Winston James captured your heart immediately and never let go. We’re looking forward to listening to more books read by them.
Ava: If, “stubborn to a fault was a person,” it would be Ava. She needed to learn to get out of her own way and not to be scared to take a chance.
Elias: If, “going for what you want,” was a person it would be Elias. His confidence was attractive. His mind was beautiful. And his body sexy. He was a go getter and easy to love.
This was a cute holiday short read. These characters both had baggage from their past but were dealing with it so differently. This book got a lot of emotions in there quick and showed how sometimes the right person can make all the difference. This was a sweet read for sure.
Let’s Set the Mood Right Quick:
The Night Before by Jacinta Howard
Drink: Eggnog and Bourbon with a pinch of Cinnamon
Music: Piece of Mind by Kehlani
Audible: Alyx Monroe, Winston James: This was our first story narrated by these two and they did a great job. They both made a point to change their voices for different characters; something we really enjoy. Alyx Monroe did a nice job bring an intelligent woman stuck in a rut to life. While Winston James captured your heart immediately and never let go. We’re looking forward to listening to more books read by them.
Ava: If, “stubborn to a fault was a person,” it would be Ava. She needed to learn to get out of her own way and not to be scared to take a chance.
Elias: If, “going for what you want,” was a person it would be Elias. His confidence was attractive. His mind was beautiful. And his body sexy. He was a go getter and easy to love.
This was a cute holiday short read. These characters both had baggage from their past but were dealing with it so differently. This book got a lot of emotions in there quick and showed how sometimes the right person can make all the difference. This was a sweet read for sure.
December 16, 2017
Merry Christmas!! Ms. Howard has performed a minor miracle with her holiday novella about Ava Ramseur and Elias Young. She has put me in the holiday spirit for real. For really real. I don’t usually read holiday offerings, especially not in the last few years, where the gauge on my "Bah, humbug" meter has been perpetually set at its highest level possible. But from the moment Ava’s candy cane meets Elias’ hot chocolate, I was there… and yes, with bells on. I loved this couple. Their chemistry was on point. But there was more. I loved the story of how they came together. All the tricks fate plays on them to bring that chemistry forward again and again was charming, scary, heartfelt, and best of all, believable. Yeah, the holidays made this story more credible and a lot more fun. So, keep the faith and read it. Will definitely put a smile on your face.
December 17, 2017
Give me more!
Jacinta Howard is definitely one of my favorite authors. Her attention to the details of the story, the culture that she infuses, is amazing. Even with this novella, she had so much depth to the characters that you feel as if you know them. She explore so many important social topics in the black community, such as mass incarceration, mandatory minimums for drug offenses, even the dysfunction of relationships and producing of children in the dysfunction. There was so much there. But most of all, the connection between Ava and Elias was the highlight. It was almost ethereal. I hope to read more about them in the future.
Jacinta Howard is definitely one of my favorite authors. Her attention to the details of the story, the culture that she infuses, is amazing. Even with this novella, she had so much depth to the characters that you feel as if you know them. She explore so many important social topics in the black community, such as mass incarceration, mandatory minimums for drug offenses, even the dysfunction of relationships and producing of children in the dysfunction. There was so much there. But most of all, the connection between Ava and Elias was the highlight. It was almost ethereal. I hope to read more about them in the future.
January 14, 2018
A Beautiful Short Read
Read the book, I think you’ll enjoy it. As usual, this author has written a romance story that pulled me in and I enjoyed the ride. Though this was a novella the connection between Ava and Elias was believable. Having read quite a few titles by Jacinta Howard, I’ve come to trust that anything she writes will be well developed. Her stories are slightly humorous, often witty characters and she writes beautiful love scenes. I even love the title, The Night Before, it is a perfect title. The night before Christmas Ava and Elias connect. New Year’s Eve they reconnect, with a well developed romance in between.
Read the book, I think you’ll enjoy it. As usual, this author has written a romance story that pulled me in and I enjoyed the ride. Though this was a novella the connection between Ava and Elias was believable. Having read quite a few titles by Jacinta Howard, I’ve come to trust that anything she writes will be well developed. Her stories are slightly humorous, often witty characters and she writes beautiful love scenes. I even love the title, The Night Before, it is a perfect title. The night before Christmas Ava and Elias connect. New Year’s Eve they reconnect, with a well developed romance in between.
December 22, 2017
Hmmmmmmmmmmm...
This is a great a Christmas short for anyone looking for something quick and intriguing to read. The character chemistry is flowing from the pages from beginning to end. Novellas are such a tease because they always leave the reader wanting more 😝. Ava and Elias are just screaming to share more, Jacinta. I hope and pray that you consider letting this couple share more, and oh yeah, Daniel, Jeremiah, and Matthew were hinting at a little something, something as well.
T
This is a great a Christmas short for anyone looking for something quick and intriguing to read. The character chemistry is flowing from the pages from beginning to end. Novellas are such a tease because they always leave the reader wanting more 😝. Ava and Elias are just screaming to share more, Jacinta. I hope and pray that you consider letting this couple share more, and oh yeah, Daniel, Jeremiah, and Matthew were hinting at a little something, something as well.
T
December 29, 2017
Thank You!!!!!?
I love the Christmas holiday and when sometimes I want to read a good book so I bought a few and by a couple of my favorite authors but was a little underwhelmed. The storylines were cheesy and I know it has to be short but a few of them felt rushed especially for Christmas. So when Jacinta put hers out I knew what I had to do and I’m glad I did, soooo glad. This was the sweetest Christmas novella EVER!!!! It had potential to be a series if need be. I loved everything about this story, everything.
I love the Christmas holiday and when sometimes I want to read a good book so I bought a few and by a couple of my favorite authors but was a little underwhelmed. The storylines were cheesy and I know it has to be short but a few of them felt rushed especially for Christmas. So when Jacinta put hers out I knew what I had to do and I’m glad I did, soooo glad. This was the sweetest Christmas novella EVER!!!! It had potential to be a series if need be. I loved everything about this story, everything.
May 27, 2019
The story is of Elias' and Ava's love affair. Elias sees Ava at a Christmas party and decides to approach her despite her chilly aura she was giving off. She warms up to Elias with his direct compliments and swag demeanor. She finds that spark that she had been missing in her other relationships and someone to state plainly their feelings for her and act without deceit. They had explosive chemistry and it had just enough conflict to keep it interesting without feeling forced. It was a good quick story to pass the time.
December 27, 2017
Satisfying
I remember this couple being featured in a holiday short. I was taken by them then and now. Likewise, I wanted more then and now as well. This was the perfect holiday novella. It had all the right things to make it an enjoyable but plausible read. It wasn't too corny like the Lifetime Christmas movies (wink) but it was warm, flirty, sexy, hopeful---and quite satisfying!
I remember this couple being featured in a holiday short. I was taken by them then and now. Likewise, I wanted more then and now as well. This was the perfect holiday novella. It had all the right things to make it an enjoyable but plausible read. It wasn't too corny like the Lifetime Christmas movies (wink) but it was warm, flirty, sexy, hopeful---and quite satisfying!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 100 reviews