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Just for December
Evie Bird is a romance writer whose latest bestseller is being made into a Christmas movie.
Duke Carlisle is a world-famous actor who has landed the role of leading man.
When Evie and Duke meet on set, it’s a frosty encounter – even icier than the cobbled Bavarian streets they're filming on.
But after images of them arguing leak to the press and put the movie in jeopardy, they are left with no choice but to fake date until the cameras stop rolling.
As the pair start to put their differences aside, their feelings gradually begin to thaw… But can sparks ever really fly in a snowstorm?
Laura Jane Williams is BACK with the most romantic read of the festive season. If you love Christmas movies like The Holiday and The Christmas Prince, this is the read to warm your heart with this December.
Duke Carlisle is a world-famous actor who has landed the role of leading man.
When Evie and Duke meet on set, it’s a frosty encounter – even icier than the cobbled Bavarian streets they're filming on.
But after images of them arguing leak to the press and put the movie in jeopardy, they are left with no choice but to fake date until the cameras stop rolling.
As the pair start to put their differences aside, their feelings gradually begin to thaw… But can sparks ever really fly in a snowstorm?
Laura Jane Williams is BACK with the most romantic read of the festive season. If you love Christmas movies like The Holiday and The Christmas Prince, this is the read to warm your heart with this December.
384 pages, Paperback
First published November 24, 2022
93 people are currently reading
3457 people want to read
About the author
Laura Jane Williams
27 books690 followersLaura Jane Williams (she/her) is known as the queen of the meet-cute. She is the author of six rom-coms, as well as the forthcoming Lovestruck (June 2023). She is also the author of three works of non-fiction.
The rights to Laura's international bestseller Our Stop have been sold for television, and her books have been translated into languages all over the world. She loves romance, being a parent, and lifting very heavy weights.
Find out more about Laura on www.laurajaneauthor.com
The rights to Laura's international bestseller Our Stop have been sold for television, and her books have been translated into languages all over the world. She loves romance, being a parent, and lifting very heavy weights.
Find out more about Laura on www.laurajaneauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 260 reviews
December 19, 2022
I loved the premise of this one and it had a lot of my favorite tropes. I thought the book started off super cute and I liked Evie’s background as the child of Hollywood stars. I also liked Duke as a leading man looking for love. I loved the idea of Evie and Duke filming on location in Bavaria (who doesn’t love German Christmas markets and snow?) But as the novel got further in, I found myself losing interest. I found myself not connecting with the characters as much as I’d hoped. I would definitely try another book by this author though—this one just didn’t work out for me. 3/5 stars.
December 20, 2022
Review to come!
CW: divorce, financial insecurity, hospice care, cheating, alzheimers, alcoholism, domestic violence
CW: divorce, financial insecurity, hospice care, cheating, alzheimers, alcoholism, domestic violence
February 18, 2023
11/28/22: Review to come once the HarperCollins strike ends
2/16/2023: yay the strike has ended! (wtf harper collins u should be embarrassed by how long this took)
Review time!
---
DNF at 25%
I am once again asking for your support in writing a happy fluffy christmas book!!! jesus christ. This has been the least christmassy reading journey I have ever had in my life, with this lovely (not) thing to cap it off. At least no one died? the bar is low.
I don’t know what this trend in MF is where authors mix up “strong” FMCs with “heinous rude self-centered monster”, but here we are, yet again.
Duke: Duke is introduced as the saddest boi, most sympathetic character, just got emotionally betrayed and wounded and still believes in love and is generally adorable and doing his job.
Evie: Evi is introduced as a self sabotaging mean rude person who hates everything. She is an irredeemable asshole.
The romance: absolutely not. I will not accept this ever occurring. Duke deserves happiness. I want to launch Evie out a plane window, into an ocean volcano. SHe is awful. This isn’t even grumpy-sunshine territory, because grumpy characters have redeeming features.
She picks fights and is mean and rude and judgmental and then blames him for it. Calls him fake for liking her books? Why can’t he like her books. I am so mad about this. He tries to many times to connect and be nice and fan and she is irrational and cruel and here’s some quotes to illustrate it.
excuse me? permanent victim here.
have you tried not being a rude monstrosity of a person
she also throws a latte at him. not cute. violence is not ok.
I have been assured that she never improves and also never apologizes.
Overall, this was a travesty of un-christmassy proportions and i regret having to inflict it on my innocent eyes
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All the opinions are my own.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
2/16/2023: yay the strike has ended! (wtf harper collins u should be embarrassed by how long this took)
Review time!
---
DNF at 25%
I am once again asking for your support in writing a happy fluffy christmas book!!! jesus christ. This has been the least christmassy reading journey I have ever had in my life, with this lovely (not) thing to cap it off. At least no one died? the bar is low.
I don’t know what this trend in MF is where authors mix up “strong” FMCs with “heinous rude self-centered monster”, but here we are, yet again.
Duke: Duke is introduced as the saddest boi, most sympathetic character, just got emotionally betrayed and wounded and still believes in love and is generally adorable and doing his job.
Evie: Evi is introduced as a self sabotaging mean rude person who hates everything. She is an irredeemable asshole.
The romance: absolutely not. I will not accept this ever occurring. Duke deserves happiness. I want to launch Evie out a plane window, into an ocean volcano. SHe is awful. This isn’t even grumpy-sunshine territory, because grumpy characters have redeeming features.
She picks fights and is mean and rude and judgmental and then blames him for it. Calls him fake for liking her books? Why can’t he like her books. I am so mad about this. He tries to many times to connect and be nice and fan and she is irrational and cruel and here’s some quotes to illustrate it.
‘If it’s any consolation,’ Duke tells her, ‘I’m not exactly over the moon myself.’ ‘No need to be rude about it,’ says Evie. Duke startles. ‘How am I being rude? You just said the same thing!’ ‘You didn’t have to agree so readily,’ she says, pouting.
excuse me? permanent victim here.
'You seem to think I’m, like, rudeness personified,’ Evie says. ‘Which is, in itself, really rude.’
have you tried not being a rude monstrosity of a person
she also throws a latte at him. not cute. violence is not ok.
I have been assured that she never improves and also never apologizes.
Overall, this was a travesty of un-christmassy proportions and i regret having to inflict it on my innocent eyes
I received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. All the opinions are my own.
Read more reviews on my blog:
https://horsetalkreviews.blogspot.com/
August 14, 2022
This book has such a cute cover and blurb and frankly that is why I'm giving this another star but the plot is medicore at it's best. The tropes and the Hollywood setting was good but I couldn't connect with the characters at all. Evie was just plain rude and impulsive which annoyed me. And the way things escalated so quickly which lead Evie & Duke to fake date was so unrealistic. I wanted to like this book but I just couldn't bring myself to enjoy it somehow. I know that some readers would love this book if you're a fan of the author's writing style but unfortunately this didn't work for me. I mean, it did have some cute moments and Duke was a different guy than the typical brooding heroes we get so read about. He loved reading romance books and just overall was a sensitive person who still stood up for the people he cared about. But as the book progressed, I started to skim through some pages because some conversations felt irrelevant and I couldn't figure out where they ended tbh.
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange of an honest review
March 14, 2023
1,5 stars
"Want one?"
"Is that a hint?"
"Honestly? Yes. You´ve got breath like a sewer."
Well if that isn´t romantic and flirty, than I don´t know what is.......
Welcome, to another rage review of mine.
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Evie and Duke.
Throughout the whole book I couldn´t really connect with either Evie nor Duke. But are just so rude and horrible to each other that it isn´t even the whole "enemies to lovers but I would die for you" that we all love and rather a "I hate your guts and will be as rude to you as I can". That in turn resulted in no chemisty, no tension and no angst at all for me. It´s not even grumpy x sunshine, it´s just grumpy x even bigger grumpy.
I kind of liked Magda, she is a really good friend to Evie and stays by her side even though Evie sometimes doesn´t treat her as well in my opinion. Magda was the only thing I truly liked about this book.
The plot.....Oh my this was a rollercoaster. It´s truly beyond me how one can research so accurately what us germans like to eat at christmas markets but then get all the other information completely wrong. Don´t you just love misinformation about your country in books....
First of all the autostrada is in Italy dear author, what we have is called "Autobahn". Second of all there is a speed limit on it. Contrary to certain misconception only small parts of it are without a limit.
Like already mentioned above, the chemistry just wasn´t there for me. Everytime she tries to eat something or to try a new food he is all like "Well MY diet wouldn´t let ME eat this stuff." "Well I couldn´t drink that....". Thank you, but you don´t need to mention your glorious diet everytime she eats, it´s kind of toxic in my opinion. Some other things that bugged me is his mother calling him "pet". Which mother calls her grown up 30-something year old son "pet"!?
Also don´t expect any spice at all in this one. There isn´t any there. The once spicy scene consists of ONE!!! whole sentence that starts off with "Duke Carlisle is an exquisite lover....." Yeah, no thank you. If you can´t write a spice scene just say so.
Overall I was truly glad when this book was over. The whole time it just feels like the book is trying to be something it just isn´t.
trigger warnings: addiction (mentioned), dementia, cheating (not caused by the love interest), domestic violence (not caused by the love interest)
"Want one?"
"Is that a hint?"
"Honestly? Yes. You´ve got breath like a sewer."
Well if that isn´t romantic and flirty, than I don´t know what is.......
Welcome, to another rage review of mine.
This is a two POV book, told by the POV´s of Evie and Duke.
Throughout the whole book I couldn´t really connect with either Evie nor Duke. But are just so rude and horrible to each other that it isn´t even the whole "enemies to lovers but I would die for you" that we all love and rather a "I hate your guts and will be as rude to you as I can". That in turn resulted in no chemisty, no tension and no angst at all for me. It´s not even grumpy x sunshine, it´s just grumpy x even bigger grumpy.
I kind of liked Magda, she is a really good friend to Evie and stays by her side even though Evie sometimes doesn´t treat her as well in my opinion. Magda was the only thing I truly liked about this book.
The plot.....Oh my this was a rollercoaster. It´s truly beyond me how one can research so accurately what us germans like to eat at christmas markets but then get all the other information completely wrong. Don´t you just love misinformation about your country in books....
First of all the autostrada is in Italy dear author, what we have is called "Autobahn". Second of all there is a speed limit on it. Contrary to certain misconception only small parts of it are without a limit.
Like already mentioned above, the chemistry just wasn´t there for me. Everytime she tries to eat something or to try a new food he is all like "Well MY diet wouldn´t let ME eat this stuff." "Well I couldn´t drink that....". Thank you, but you don´t need to mention your glorious diet everytime she eats, it´s kind of toxic in my opinion. Some other things that bugged me is his mother calling him "pet". Which mother calls her grown up 30-something year old son "pet"!?
Also don´t expect any spice at all in this one. There isn´t any there. The once spicy scene consists of ONE!!! whole sentence that starts off with "Duke Carlisle is an exquisite lover....." Yeah, no thank you. If you can´t write a spice scene just say so.
Overall I was truly glad when this book was over. The whole time it just feels like the book is trying to be something it just isn´t.
trigger warnings: addiction (mentioned), dementia, cheating (not caused by the love interest), domestic violence (not caused by the love interest)
November 24, 2022
I enjoyed this book but I did not fall in love with it as much as I had hoped to. The German Christmas markets were perfect in setting the festive scene, but I didn’t feel too invested in the relationship between Evie and Duke.
Evie is not a character you are meant to like and some of her behaviours are pretty awful. However, I did find many of her comebacks to Duke to be really entertaining (although I did feel guilty laughing at Duke’s expense!). She is certainly a flawed protagonist and it takes the whole novel for the writer to show Evie overcome these negative traits. Yet, I think I wanted to see her character develop more, beyond what Williams shows the reader: more of her American life (I often forgot she was from the States); her spending habits, perhaps through flashbacks; further scenes featuring her famous, albeit absent, father. I think this would have made her character even more interesting.
As for Duke, as gorgeous as he may be described, I could not get over the ridiculous name. Yes, it is a stage name, but I hated seeing it every moment I encountered it in the book. Which, for a main character, was naturally quite a lot. I get that he is a successful actor and can do pretty much whatever he likes, but I wish Williams had christened him more favourably! Duke’s sparring with Evie added to the entertainment of the story and I liked the different direction that the film set took towards the second half of the novel. But, like Edie, I don’t think his character was too ground-breaking from other romance reads.
For me, the relationship between Duke and Evie was too obviously fake and too obviously destined for love. Resisting a relationship but spending time with someone you consider you dislike… it has been seen in many stories I have read before. Were it not for the Christmas markets, I would have felt a serious sense of deja vu. In my opinion, I don’t think Williams has presented readers with enough original material.
So, the descriptions of the German places and the quaint, traditional markets really inspired my imagination. I felt like I was walking alongside Evie and Duke in the freezing cold, appreciating the onslaught onto my senses. I think this was the best element of the story and I wonder if Williams has based such descriptions on personal experience. For me, I felt like I was on holiday with the warring couple and it made me yearn to see these places for real life in December.
I can honestly say that this has not been my most favourite of Christmas reads this year, even if the setting felt unique. I have also read several books by this author now and cannot admit to them capturing my imagination. In this case, I wish Williams had presented a more unique plot direction that would have capitalised on such a magical setting.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Evie is not a character you are meant to like and some of her behaviours are pretty awful. However, I did find many of her comebacks to Duke to be really entertaining (although I did feel guilty laughing at Duke’s expense!). She is certainly a flawed protagonist and it takes the whole novel for the writer to show Evie overcome these negative traits. Yet, I think I wanted to see her character develop more, beyond what Williams shows the reader: more of her American life (I often forgot she was from the States); her spending habits, perhaps through flashbacks; further scenes featuring her famous, albeit absent, father. I think this would have made her character even more interesting.
As for Duke, as gorgeous as he may be described, I could not get over the ridiculous name. Yes, it is a stage name, but I hated seeing it every moment I encountered it in the book. Which, for a main character, was naturally quite a lot. I get that he is a successful actor and can do pretty much whatever he likes, but I wish Williams had christened him more favourably! Duke’s sparring with Evie added to the entertainment of the story and I liked the different direction that the film set took towards the second half of the novel. But, like Edie, I don’t think his character was too ground-breaking from other romance reads.
For me, the relationship between Duke and Evie was too obviously fake and too obviously destined for love. Resisting a relationship but spending time with someone you consider you dislike… it has been seen in many stories I have read before. Were it not for the Christmas markets, I would have felt a serious sense of deja vu. In my opinion, I don’t think Williams has presented readers with enough original material.
So, the descriptions of the German places and the quaint, traditional markets really inspired my imagination. I felt like I was walking alongside Evie and Duke in the freezing cold, appreciating the onslaught onto my senses. I think this was the best element of the story and I wonder if Williams has based such descriptions on personal experience. For me, I felt like I was on holiday with the warring couple and it made me yearn to see these places for real life in December.
I can honestly say that this has not been my most favourite of Christmas reads this year, even if the setting felt unique. I have also read several books by this author now and cannot admit to them capturing my imagination. In this case, I wish Williams had presented a more unique plot direction that would have capitalised on such a magical setting.
With thanks to Avon books and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
dnf
November 6, 2022dnf @ 2%
I have never seen a book info dump and solidify their main character as nOt LiKe OtHeR gIrLs so quickly.
I have never seen a book info dump and solidify their main character as nOt LiKe OtHeR gIrLs so quickly.
July 29, 2022
“What is it they say about worrying? You’re stealing from the present to think about something that the future cannot even guarantee.”
Just For December is a grumpy x sunshine romance with a twist because she’s the grump and he’s the golden retriever.
Evie Bird is a romance author whose novel is being turned into a movie. Which is her worst nightmare really, because her estranged movie-director dad made her loathe everything Hollywood related. Enter Duke Carlisle, famous actor and main character in the upcoming adaptation. After some early encounters in which Evie treats Duke like the scum of the earth, they enter a fake-dating relationship to save the movie from bad publicity.
What I liked:
- the descriptions were very vivid and they transported you into the Christmas atmosphere even though it’s the middle of the summer season when I’m writing this
- the bavaric feel of the German Christmas Market was a rare and refreshing setting for a rom-com
What I didn’t like:
- Evie. She’s rude for no reason other than her dislike for film sets, she’s judgmental of Duke from the first moment and she’s so quick to lash out at anyone. “No need to be rude about it; says Evie. Duke startles. How am I being rude? You just said the same thing! 'You didn't have to agree so readily, she says, pouting”. This is a prime case of “you can never win”
- So many name drops about what actress Duke went to lunch with or what pop star lent their home to go skiing with him. It took me out of the story
- Duke is a bit over-the-top about love and relationships. he reads like a single chick in her 40s desperate to have a Hallmark love
Overall it was a cute read if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, but it’s nothing I’d write Santa about.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Just For December is a grumpy x sunshine romance with a twist because she’s the grump and he’s the golden retriever.
Evie Bird is a romance author whose novel is being turned into a movie. Which is her worst nightmare really, because her estranged movie-director dad made her loathe everything Hollywood related. Enter Duke Carlisle, famous actor and main character in the upcoming adaptation. After some early encounters in which Evie treats Duke like the scum of the earth, they enter a fake-dating relationship to save the movie from bad publicity.
What I liked:
- the descriptions were very vivid and they transported you into the Christmas atmosphere even though it’s the middle of the summer season when I’m writing this
- the bavaric feel of the German Christmas Market was a rare and refreshing setting for a rom-com
What I didn’t like:
- Evie. She’s rude for no reason other than her dislike for film sets, she’s judgmental of Duke from the first moment and she’s so quick to lash out at anyone. “No need to be rude about it; says Evie. Duke startles. How am I being rude? You just said the same thing! 'You didn't have to agree so readily, she says, pouting”. This is a prime case of “you can never win”
- So many name drops about what actress Duke went to lunch with or what pop star lent their home to go skiing with him. It took me out of the story
- Duke is a bit over-the-top about love and relationships. he reads like a single chick in her 40s desperate to have a Hallmark love
Overall it was a cute read if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, but it’s nothing I’d write Santa about.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for for providing an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
February 16, 2023
Review to come once the HarperCollins strike ends. 2/16/2023 strike has ended! Here comes the review...
2 stars
This book had a cute premise, a cute cover, and tons of tropes I normally love but holy crap was the female main character, Evie, a relentless jerk. The male main character, Duke, is the one to make all the effort. And for what? For this absurd fake dating turned real dating turned real love nonsense with a horrible person? Evie is so mean to Duke from the very beginning and literally never apologizes for it (i went back and checked). Instead what she brings to this relationship is:
-thinking Duke is too stupid to have read her books and formed his own opinion and analysis of them
-assuming Duke is a fake liar
-jumping to the absolute worst possible conclusion for every scenario
-including once where she doesn't even let Duke speak to explain
-excuses her horrible behavior because of all her personal life issues (girl, we all got problems! Doesn't make us all jerks!)
-throws her latte at Duke
-yells at Duke
-snaps at Duke every time he tried to make a joke or be kind to her
-turns her life around to be less of a butthead by getting her own book quote tattooed on herself because we all know motivational quote tattoos solve all our problems
-thinks singing bad karaoke dedicated to Duke is in any way an apology or a love declaration
-runs away immediately after karaoke when she realizes Duke wasn't there
-by run away I mean all the way to the airport and her attempt to contact Duke is limited to leaving a note at the hotel that says (paraphrasing by me) "it's been real no hard feelings k bye"
And Duke! He constantly excuses her bad behavior as "getting him" and "calling him on his crap" and other such nonsense. Yet Duke is the one constantly making the big romantic moment declarations and trying and being vulnerable. And for what! A big mean jerk for a girlfriend? Gross.
So this Christmas book is a waste of good tropes on bad characters. But no one died so I gave it an extra star.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
2 stars
This book had a cute premise, a cute cover, and tons of tropes I normally love but holy crap was the female main character, Evie, a relentless jerk. The male main character, Duke, is the one to make all the effort. And for what? For this absurd fake dating turned real dating turned real love nonsense with a horrible person? Evie is so mean to Duke from the very beginning and literally never apologizes for it (i went back and checked). Instead what she brings to this relationship is:
-thinking Duke is too stupid to have read her books and formed his own opinion and analysis of them
-assuming Duke is a fake liar
-jumping to the absolute worst possible conclusion for every scenario
-including once where she doesn't even let Duke speak to explain
-excuses her horrible behavior because of all her personal life issues (girl, we all got problems! Doesn't make us all jerks!)
-throws her latte at Duke
-yells at Duke
-snaps at Duke every time he tried to make a joke or be kind to her
-turns her life around to be less of a butthead by getting her own book quote tattooed on herself because we all know motivational quote tattoos solve all our problems
-thinks singing bad karaoke dedicated to Duke is in any way an apology or a love declaration
-runs away immediately after karaoke when she realizes Duke wasn't there
-by run away I mean all the way to the airport and her attempt to contact Duke is limited to leaving a note at the hotel that says (paraphrasing by me) "it's been real no hard feelings k bye"
And Duke! He constantly excuses her bad behavior as "getting him" and "calling him on his crap" and other such nonsense. Yet Duke is the one constantly making the big romantic moment declarations and trying and being vulnerable. And for what! A big mean jerk for a girlfriend? Gross.
So this Christmas book is a waste of good tropes on bad characters. But no one died so I gave it an extra star.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own.
November 12, 2022
I really really wanted to like this one, the cover is adorable, the plot sounds great and it has some of my favourite troupes in it… but sadly I DNF’ed it pretty quickly because my god did this book like to just info dump all over the place. That coupled with the main character Evie really annoying me I just couldn’t continue with it, it felt too much like a punishment.
Thank you Avon for sending me a copy of this one.
Thank you Avon for sending me a copy of this one.
December 15, 2022
I don't know what it is about grumpy Female main characters but they totally do it for me. This Christmas romance between a cynical bestselling romance author forced to come to the set of the film version of her book and fake date the male star completely worked for me!!
A slow burn grumpy/sunshine, dual POV romance that has EXCELLENT mental health rep and emotional depth. These two older characters have never had great luck in love and I so enjoyed watching Evie and Duke slowly get to know sides of each other they never share with other people.
I also loved that therapy was so normalized in this book and that it was the male main character who spoke openly about his feelings and shortcomings. Highly recommend this one. It truly spoke to me this year and just might be my favorite Christmas read of 2023!
TW: parent with Alzheimer's, alcoholic parent, depression, shopping addiction
A slow burn grumpy/sunshine, dual POV romance that has EXCELLENT mental health rep and emotional depth. These two older characters have never had great luck in love and I so enjoyed watching Evie and Duke slowly get to know sides of each other they never share with other people.
I also loved that therapy was so normalized in this book and that it was the male main character who spoke openly about his feelings and shortcomings. Highly recommend this one. It truly spoke to me this year and just might be my favorite Christmas read of 2023!
TW: parent with Alzheimer's, alcoholic parent, depression, shopping addiction
November 29, 2022
From the first chapter, I didn’t like Evie much. I understand her past is the reason for her disdain for film sets, I just felt like she was a little too ungrateful for the amazing opportunity that lay before her. But I knew this was just the beginning and couldn’t wait to read more.
My opinions and feelings towards Evie changed as the story developed as I started to understand her more, and my dislike changed to love. She is a fantastic character. Possibly a little too cynical, but isn’t everyone who goes through pain and heartache?
Duke, I adored from the outset. He is a hopeless romantic, and that is so endearing. I loved that he (as the male main character) was the fantasist with ideals of true love, and Evie (the female main character) was the realist. It’s a refreshing change.
It is a sweet rom-com, but as with real life, there are darker elements too! The story highlights alcoholism, abusive relationships and neglectful parents. But fear not because there is plenty of laughter, love, joy and hope. Everything you want and expect from a Laura Jane Williams book.
I have to be honest and say this isn’t my favourite LJW.
The exact reason is difficult because its to do with a particular pet peeve of mine. And that pet peeve is Pop Culture references.
I get the odd mention of singers, movie/book scenes etc…, but too many take me out of the fantasy. And the references in this book just made me roll my eyes. And before you scream, “he’s a movie star”, I get that, I do, but as I said, I want to get lost in a fictional fantasy world. It’s that simple.
Another thing that bugged me was the miscommunications. Now, it’s not because I hate the trope but because there was no conflict or prolonged moments of agony. The miscommunications are resolved too quickly, so much so that they are almost redundant.
It might not be my favourite, but I enjoyed reading the book. From the stunning Bavarian Christmas backdrop to enemies to lovers, it all makes a gorgeous chicklit that’s perfect for the festive season.
Thank you, NetGalley & Avon, for the arc ebook in return for an honest review.
My opinions and feelings towards Evie changed as the story developed as I started to understand her more, and my dislike changed to love. She is a fantastic character. Possibly a little too cynical, but isn’t everyone who goes through pain and heartache?
Duke, I adored from the outset. He is a hopeless romantic, and that is so endearing. I loved that he (as the male main character) was the fantasist with ideals of true love, and Evie (the female main character) was the realist. It’s a refreshing change.
It is a sweet rom-com, but as with real life, there are darker elements too! The story highlights alcoholism, abusive relationships and neglectful parents. But fear not because there is plenty of laughter, love, joy and hope. Everything you want and expect from a Laura Jane Williams book.
I have to be honest and say this isn’t my favourite LJW.
The exact reason is difficult because its to do with a particular pet peeve of mine. And that pet peeve is Pop Culture references.
I get the odd mention of singers, movie/book scenes etc…, but too many take me out of the fantasy. And the references in this book just made me roll my eyes. And before you scream, “he’s a movie star”, I get that, I do, but as I said, I want to get lost in a fictional fantasy world. It’s that simple.
Another thing that bugged me was the miscommunications. Now, it’s not because I hate the trope but because there was no conflict or prolonged moments of agony. The miscommunications are resolved too quickly, so much so that they are almost redundant.
It might not be my favourite, but I enjoyed reading the book. From the stunning Bavarian Christmas backdrop to enemies to lovers, it all makes a gorgeous chicklit that’s perfect for the festive season.
Thank you, NetGalley & Avon, for the arc ebook in return for an honest review.
September 26, 2022
After seeing some reviews of this book I wasn't sure.. but I guess I'm in the minority because I loved it.
This was definitely an enemies to lovers kinda story and it all began with a very awkward fauxmance between an actor and an author. It was this that turned their relationship upside down and inside out and soon it blossoms for real.. but no love story is that simple and we all come with baggage and history and so do they. Their chemistry is super explosive and I found myself rooting for them to get together.
The extra characters definitely added to the story and we all need a best friend like Magda. Who isn't afraid to out your flaws even when the going gets tough.
This was a proper cosy festive read, perfect for the recent cold nights curled up under a blanket. Loved it!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Laura Jane Williams and Avon Books for this ARC 💙
This was definitely an enemies to lovers kinda story and it all began with a very awkward fauxmance between an actor and an author. It was this that turned their relationship upside down and inside out and soon it blossoms for real.. but no love story is that simple and we all come with baggage and history and so do they. Their chemistry is super explosive and I found myself rooting for them to get together.
The extra characters definitely added to the story and we all need a best friend like Magda. Who isn't afraid to out your flaws even when the going gets tough.
This was a proper cosy festive read, perfect for the recent cold nights curled up under a blanket. Loved it!!
Thank you to Netgalley, Laura Jane Williams and Avon Books for this ARC 💙
December 28, 2022
This is a great premise for a lovely Christmas romantic novel and it is a good book, but in my opinion it could have been much better.
The plot concentrates on Evie and Duke, she is an author whose work is being made into a film in which actor Duke is starring. After a comedy of errors the two agree it a fake romance for the sake of the film and the two bond over their shared troubled pasts.
The characters are likeable however the plot becomes less believable and I became less invested in the story. I liked the character of Magda, best friend of Evie and think she made the book a lighter more enjoyable read.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
The plot concentrates on Evie and Duke, she is an author whose work is being made into a film in which actor Duke is starring. After a comedy of errors the two agree it a fake romance for the sake of the film and the two bond over their shared troubled pasts.
The characters are likeable however the plot becomes less believable and I became less invested in the story. I liked the character of Magda, best friend of Evie and think she made the book a lighter more enjoyable read.
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 23, 2022
3.5 ⭐️
First of all, thank you to @avonbooksuk for my gifted review copy! Just For December is available now.
This is a charming enemies to lovers/ fake dating/ festive romance.
I enjoyed the setting the most - half film set, half German markets - it made for a really cosy, Christmassy read. So festive!
This couldn’t quite be 4 stars for me because unfortunately I didn’t gel 100% with Evie, our leading lady. I found her quite abrasive and struggled to relate to her at all.
I much preferred Duke’s chapters and found myself looking forward to getting to them. Duke was open, caring and willing to work through his character flaws.
The romance was sweet and we touch on some interesting topics too such as alcoholism and overspending which gave the story needed depth.
All in all this is a solid read, I just wish I’d connected with Evie a little more!
First of all, thank you to @avonbooksuk for my gifted review copy! Just For December is available now.
This is a charming enemies to lovers/ fake dating/ festive romance.
I enjoyed the setting the most - half film set, half German markets - it made for a really cosy, Christmassy read. So festive!
This couldn’t quite be 4 stars for me because unfortunately I didn’t gel 100% with Evie, our leading lady. I found her quite abrasive and struggled to relate to her at all.
I much preferred Duke’s chapters and found myself looking forward to getting to them. Duke was open, caring and willing to work through his character flaws.
The romance was sweet and we touch on some interesting topics too such as alcoholism and overspending which gave the story needed depth.
All in all this is a solid read, I just wish I’d connected with Evie a little more!
December 20, 2022
This was a really sweet romance and for once I actually found myself liking the male love interest more than the female. The setting was fun and I liked our main characters backgrounds and how it informed their personalities. Very glad I read this book.
4 stars.
4 stars.
December 23, 2022
On the surface I thought this would be very sweet and easy. But the characters feel too shallow for me. I got to just over a hundred pages, but if I'm not into it, I simply can't continue. Just wasn't for me.
December 29, 2023
30% DNF
December 30, 2022
Evie Bird is a romance writer who’s estranged father is a famous movie director. When one of her books is turned into a movie, she goes to the shoot location in Germany, at Christmas time. She’s grumpy about it, and keeps her father a secret.
She meets Duke, a famous actor playing the male role. He’s as cheery
as Evie is grumpy. After they’re caught arguing, the producers etc decide that the only thing they can do to save the movie is to fake date each other.
Evie is not happy, but as she and Duke go on “dates” they start to develop real feelings. Can their relationship last beyond December?
I recommend this book, 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.
She meets Duke, a famous actor playing the male role. He’s as cheery
as Evie is grumpy. After they’re caught arguing, the producers etc decide that the only thing they can do to save the movie is to fake date each other.
Evie is not happy, but as she and Duke go on “dates” they start to develop real feelings. Can their relationship last beyond December?
I recommend this book, 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed as in this review are completely my own.
December 14, 2022
I really enjoyed Laura Jane Williams book The Lucky Escape, but this one was not it. It was alllll over the place. So many plot points happened and some were important and some were not. You’d think something major just happened and then boom, scene change and it’s just glazed over.
While I enjoyed seeing the characters grow I didn’t love them. Evie not understanding her books helped people seemed odd. Duke seemed the best character out of everyone and yet no one treated him well.
I just couldn’t get into it and probably should have DNF’d.
While I enjoyed seeing the characters grow I didn’t love them. Evie not understanding her books helped people seemed odd. Duke seemed the best character out of everyone and yet no one treated him well.
I just couldn’t get into it and probably should have DNF’d.
December 5, 2022
Full review to come
December 30, 2024
this was the perfect hallmark feeling in a Christmas book and I really enjoyed reading it!
I just wished they would have come together a little bit sooner because the misunderstandings were a bit annoying at some point but other than that it was a lovely read and I really did have a fun time!
I just wished they would have come together a little bit sooner because the misunderstandings were a bit annoying at some point but other than that it was a lovely read and I really did have a fun time!
didn-t-finish
November 20, 2022DNF at 22%
Usually when I DNF a book it's because I'm not in the mood for it or because it's just not working for me. This was was because I flat out did not enjoy it and could only see it getting worse. The blurb on this one was fantastic, and I love the cover, but everything about the first 22% really irritated me. It was very info-dumpy, telling not showing, and just a lot of telling us that the female MC was so great and not like other girls because SHE didn't care about Hollywood and then telling us that the male MC was such a hopeless romantic. I could not take reading any more of this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for an advance eARC of Just for December in exchange for an honest review. Just for December releases on November 24, 2022.
Usually when I DNF a book it's because I'm not in the mood for it or because it's just not working for me. This was was because I flat out did not enjoy it and could only see it getting worse. The blurb on this one was fantastic, and I love the cover, but everything about the first 22% really irritated me. It was very info-dumpy, telling not showing, and just a lot of telling us that the female MC was so great and not like other girls because SHE didn't care about Hollywood and then telling us that the male MC was such a hopeless romantic. I could not take reading any more of this.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books for an advance eARC of Just for December in exchange for an honest review. Just for December releases on November 24, 2022.
July 24, 2022
Laura Jane Williams and her books are fast becoming must-reads for me. I mean, I have read every one, and as soon as I hear about the possibility of another one, I go and check the pre-order details!
I was delighted to be approved for an ARAC of Just for December and I devoured it in more or less a day. To be honest, it would have been quicker aside from a function I HAD to attend!
So, where were we?
We have Evie Bird, an author who feels devoid of emotion for much of her life, with an ill mother in a care home, a shopping addiction and a deadline looming.
And she gets summoned to Germany, where one of her books is being made into a film. Contractual rights and clauses mean that, despite her wanting to stay holed up in her apartment with just her dog for company, her laptop, and the odd visit from Magda, her best friend, she has to spend three weeks with insufferable movie stars on a film set.
Then she meets the hero of the film, mega-famous Duke Carlisle, and their chemistry is explosive, from the off! As in they should not be near one another!
Appearances can be deceiving, and this is definitely a theme that is explored in the story. both our MCs have preconceived ideas about each other, and both are so wrong.
I loved the fauxmance that they had to go through, to curb the gossip already picking at the carcass of one media scandal involving members of the film's cast and staff, and how, their relationship turns on its head.
Magda, Evie's best friend is a fantastic character too, and definitely the kind of real-talking sidekick all women should have beside them!
Enemies to lovers in an idyllic Christmas setting. Perfect! I confess to succumbing to a festive hot chocolate despite the heat I am sitting in, to embrace the ambience of the book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I was delighted to be approved for an ARAC of Just for December and I devoured it in more or less a day. To be honest, it would have been quicker aside from a function I HAD to attend!
So, where were we?
We have Evie Bird, an author who feels devoid of emotion for much of her life, with an ill mother in a care home, a shopping addiction and a deadline looming.
And she gets summoned to Germany, where one of her books is being made into a film. Contractual rights and clauses mean that, despite her wanting to stay holed up in her apartment with just her dog for company, her laptop, and the odd visit from Magda, her best friend, she has to spend three weeks with insufferable movie stars on a film set.
Then she meets the hero of the film, mega-famous Duke Carlisle, and their chemistry is explosive, from the off! As in they should not be near one another!
Appearances can be deceiving, and this is definitely a theme that is explored in the story. both our MCs have preconceived ideas about each other, and both are so wrong.
I loved the fauxmance that they had to go through, to curb the gossip already picking at the carcass of one media scandal involving members of the film's cast and staff, and how, their relationship turns on its head.
Magda, Evie's best friend is a fantastic character too, and definitely the kind of real-talking sidekick all women should have beside them!
Enemies to lovers in an idyllic Christmas setting. Perfect! I confess to succumbing to a festive hot chocolate despite the heat I am sitting in, to embrace the ambience of the book!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 6, 2022
I really really wanted to like this book, but I just couldn't do it. It has such a cute premise and the hopes were so high going in. Grumpy sunshine? Check. Fake dating? Check. Enemies to lovers? Check. Those are three of my favorite tropes, but yet this one just wasn't it for me. I tried to give it the benefit of the doubt, but there were a couple of moments that happened towards the beginning that just were a downhill slide for me. For starters, the way that Duke roped Evie into having to be on set was just WEIRD. He is a professional actor in his thirties. I was genuinely shook to my core. Next, Evie is just MEAN. Like, I am all for a frump in a story, but there are times where she is just downright rude for no real reason at all. Lastly, there was a moment where are two characters are discussing a song that has been in the Top 40 (and was there for a LONG time). Evie was SHOCKED to find out that Duke likes pop music because he knew what the song was. It was a moment where I had to put my Kindle down and just take five minutes before I had to start reading it again.
I know that this book is definitely for others, and I feel like there is a chance that I would enjoy this book a second time around or even other books by this author. Her writing was so descriptive, and it really was beautiful imagining all of the scenery and characters. I just wasn't a fan of this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing me with an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I know that this book is definitely for others, and I feel like there is a chance that I would enjoy this book a second time around or even other books by this author. Her writing was so descriptive, and it really was beautiful imagining all of the scenery and characters. I just wasn't a fan of this one.
Thank you to NetGalley and Avon Books UK for providing me with an electronic ARC in exchange for an honest review.
August 14, 2022
Every time I start reading a new book I have a very important rule:
1. give the main characters a chance even if at first I feel they are acting in a "bad way" without an explanation and are stressing me out.
Unfortunately, as much as I gave Evie a chance, I couldn't understand why she was so rude when Duke didn't deserve it.
This is the first Christmas-themed book I have read and although I liked the basis of the story and some of the character traits, this book just didn't live up to my expectations.
I think having such high expectations because it was my first Christmas romance is the reason I didn't enjoy this book and that's my fault.
(Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
1. give the main characters a chance even if at first I feel they are acting in a "bad way" without an explanation and are stressing me out.
Unfortunately, as much as I gave Evie a chance, I couldn't understand why she was so rude when Duke didn't deserve it.
This is the first Christmas-themed book I have read and although I liked the basis of the story and some of the character traits, this book just didn't live up to my expectations.
I think having such high expectations because it was my first Christmas romance is the reason I didn't enjoy this book and that's my fault.
(Thank you NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review)
December 19, 2022
Evie Bird is a romance writer whose latest bestseller is being made into a Christmas movie. Behind the scenes, she has a lot on her plate, with her mother in a care home, no relationship with her father and now a new book deadline on the horizon.
Duke Carlisle is a world-famous actor who has landed the role of leading man in the film. Fresh out of a relationship with his co-star Daphne, the atmosphere on set is a little fraught.
Evie is contractually obliged to appear on set as a consultant, and when she meets Duke it’s a frosty encounter. In fact, the only thing icier than their interactions is the snow that coats the Bavarian streets they are filming on.
But after images of them arguing leak to the press and put the movie in jeopardy, they are left with no choice but to fake date until the cameras stop rolling.
As the pair start to put their differences aside, gradually, somewhere along the Romantic Road, their feelings begin to thaw… But can sparks ever really fly in a snowstorm?
Initially when I started this book, I really didn’t like Evie, I felt she was rude and aloof, but as the story progressed, she thawed a bit and I ended up liking her!
It took me a little while to get into the story because of the block I had about Evie, however, I found that during the day when I was sitting at my desk at work, I was thinking about the story and the characters, and then by the end I had to stay up and finish it as I had completely fallen in love with them all!
Duke Carlisle is a world-famous actor who has landed the role of leading man in the film. Fresh out of a relationship with his co-star Daphne, the atmosphere on set is a little fraught.
Evie is contractually obliged to appear on set as a consultant, and when she meets Duke it’s a frosty encounter. In fact, the only thing icier than their interactions is the snow that coats the Bavarian streets they are filming on.
But after images of them arguing leak to the press and put the movie in jeopardy, they are left with no choice but to fake date until the cameras stop rolling.
As the pair start to put their differences aside, gradually, somewhere along the Romantic Road, their feelings begin to thaw… But can sparks ever really fly in a snowstorm?
Initially when I started this book, I really didn’t like Evie, I felt she was rude and aloof, but as the story progressed, she thawed a bit and I ended up liking her!
It took me a little while to get into the story because of the block I had about Evie, however, I found that during the day when I was sitting at my desk at work, I was thinking about the story and the characters, and then by the end I had to stay up and finish it as I had completely fallen in love with them all!
November 20, 2022
When best-selling author Evie has one of her books made into a movie, the only stipulation is that she needs to be on the set during filming. She meets the leading man, Duke, and her initial reaction to him was not one of warmth. Caught by the press in a heated discussion, the two are to begin a fake romance for the paparazzi to shed some favourable interest in the movie.
As the two participate in this fauxmance, they realize they have more in common than they originally thought. Evie and Duke both have backstories that have led to trust issues. While not every reader can relate to these stories, there are unfortunately some that will.
I found Edie to be rather rude much of the time although you could see more positive change in her as the story progressed. I don’t think that love solves all, and Edie still had a long way to go to manage her impulsive spending. It was suggested that she was working on it, but the reader was not updated in the last quarter of the book as to how Edie was doing with this.
Duke’s character was more interesting and I appreciated how this man enjoyed romance novels – so much that he had read all of Edie’s books. I loved the romantic moments that he created for Edie transforming her into someone more likeable.
I enjoyed the Christmas in Bavaria setting of the film. The author made it easy to picture Edie and Duke walking in these German market towns. The book also provided insight into the business behind the movie industry as well as the need for the enforcement of boundaries with the press.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy Women’s Fiction or romance.
I received a DRC of this book from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
3.5 stars (rounded to 4)
As the two participate in this fauxmance, they realize they have more in common than they originally thought. Evie and Duke both have backstories that have led to trust issues. While not every reader can relate to these stories, there are unfortunately some that will.
I found Edie to be rather rude much of the time although you could see more positive change in her as the story progressed. I don’t think that love solves all, and Edie still had a long way to go to manage her impulsive spending. It was suggested that she was working on it, but the reader was not updated in the last quarter of the book as to how Edie was doing with this.
Duke’s character was more interesting and I appreciated how this man enjoyed romance novels – so much that he had read all of Edie’s books. I loved the romantic moments that he created for Edie transforming her into someone more likeable.
I enjoyed the Christmas in Bavaria setting of the film. The author made it easy to picture Edie and Duke walking in these German market towns. The book also provided insight into the business behind the movie industry as well as the need for the enforcement of boundaries with the press.
I recommend this book to readers who enjoy Women’s Fiction or romance.
I received a DRC of this book from the publisher but the thoughts and opinions expressed here are my own.
3.5 stars (rounded to 4)
December 24, 2023
(3.5 Star Rating)
I thought I was gonna hate this at the start, but I was fairly pleasantly surprised. The main female character was instantly dis likeable and just straight up rude, but we got some context later on which didn’t excuse it, but meant I didn’t hate her the either way through. She got less rude as well.
I liked the money / shopping - self worth interlink - I thought it was quite an interesting one which I haven’t read about elsewhere much.
Dementia point was skimmed over & just as a point for the financial difficulties, but tbh I’m not sure it was needed.
The alcoholism point of Dukes mother was interesting but underdeveloped ( despite the book in general being too long)
The Brad thing is just never resolved fully, and he doesn’t seem to get any justice for abusing Daphne.
I liked the chemistry between duke and Daphne up to the climatic scene of them getting together, but after that it felt like forced miscommunication at times.
Overall a fine read but nothing to write home about. Just a lighthearted festive rom com.
Noticed one spelling / grammar mistake.
I thought I was gonna hate this at the start, but I was fairly pleasantly surprised. The main female character was instantly dis likeable and just straight up rude, but we got some context later on which didn’t excuse it, but meant I didn’t hate her the either way through. She got less rude as well.
I liked the money / shopping - self worth interlink - I thought it was quite an interesting one which I haven’t read about elsewhere much.
Dementia point was skimmed over & just as a point for the financial difficulties, but tbh I’m not sure it was needed.
The alcoholism point of Dukes mother was interesting but underdeveloped ( despite the book in general being too long)
The Brad thing is just never resolved fully, and he doesn’t seem to get any justice for abusing Daphne.
I liked the chemistry between duke and Daphne up to the climatic scene of them getting together, but after that it felt like forced miscommunication at times.
Overall a fine read but nothing to write home about. Just a lighthearted festive rom com.
Noticed one spelling / grammar mistake.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 14, 2022
The synopsis and the cover of Just for December promised so much and I was really looking forward to becoming immersed in a cosy Christmas romance. I was hoping for so much more from this book and sadly it didn’t deliver. Nothing drew into the novel, there was no riveting plot line and I had a hard time connecting with the characters. Evie in particular was not very likeable and her attitude towards Duke made me cringe. Determined to carry on I made it to around 70% whereby I skipped a few of the chapters which I felt were irrelevant and a little repetitive and read the last few. I don’t think I missed much and the novel ended as one would expect.
I’ll finish my review by saying that what I don’t like, other readers may enjoy, so if you do like the sound of this one give it a go. The Christmassy vibes are there and the setting is wonderful, I loved the descriptions of Bavarian Germany, the Christmas markets and castles. It’s just the characters and weak storyline that unfortunately let it down for me.
Thank you so much to the publisher for gifting me a copy to review.
I’ll finish my review by saying that what I don’t like, other readers may enjoy, so if you do like the sound of this one give it a go. The Christmassy vibes are there and the setting is wonderful, I loved the descriptions of Bavarian Germany, the Christmas markets and castles. It’s just the characters and weak storyline that unfortunately let it down for me.
Thank you so much to the publisher for gifting me a copy to review.
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