Book Review: "Just Like Christmas" by Annabel den Dekker

Are you a fan of Hallmark Christmas movies? Do you love cute tropey goodness served with a cup of holiday cheer? Do you enjoy reading? Well we’ve got a book for you!

“Just Like Christmas” is a newly-released holiday romance that follows the story of Niall and Sam, childhood friends now drifted apart, but brought back together through fake-dating hijinx! While we’re all familiar with the idea of “enemies to lovers”, this story explores the delightfully fun “frienemies to lovers”- as well as many other classic romance story prompts. We, of course, will not be listing them all here because Spoilers, but suffice it to say, if you’re the kind of person who likes a tale that makes you kick your feet and say “Squee!” you’ll be delighted with the many festive-flavored misadventures that befall our protagonists. Beyond the squee-worthy romance, we enjoyed that this love story is supported by well drawn and interesting secondary characters. Niall and Sam both have siblings who add depth to the boys’ story, as well as showing us how much both of the main characters value their family, and the ways in which they interact with the people important to them. From Sam’s mother (who will resonate strongly with many who have an adoring mother, grandmother, or auntie who really does mean well but can sometimes be… A Lot) to Vic, the diner owner who watches the boys grow up, grow apart, and grow back together over waffles and hot chocolate, to Charlie the dog, this rich cast of characters creates a believable world in which readers can easily get immersed. And of course, the reason we’re featuring it on this blog is because both of our romantic leads are men! We didn’t focus on that right from the start because we believe that the best kind of representation is normalized representation. It’s not a “gay Christmas romance”, it’s simply a Christmas romance. But it is yet another story added to the growing list of holiday stories with diverse characters! With references to “A Christmas Carol” drawing a central line through the story, gingerbread making, and festive happily ever afters, “Just Like Christmas” is the perfect feel-good holiday read!

You can buy it now on Amazon or request it from your local bookshop or library!

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