Lost In Pages: Christmas All Around, My Book Reflection December 2024, Audiobooks, Part 2

January 15, 2025

Christmas all around: the time for cozy rom-coms such as Love Actually and The Holiday, but also for really good reads that tug at your heartstrings. I love this about the holidays
This is part 2 of my December book reflections! While not every read or audiobook this month revolved around Christmas or the holidays (I need some variety), there’s a common thread that ties them all together: each story has a way of warming the heart. Whether it’s through swoon-worthy romance, laugh-out-loud moments, or characters finding their way through life’s twists and turns, these books brought me a sense of joy, coziness, and connection.

Grab a mug of something warm and let’s dive into the stories that made this season all the more magical!

CHRISTMAS ACTUALLY by Lisa Darcy

(first published: September 18, 2024; Publisher: Bloddhound Books; 344 pages, Paperback;
Audiobook: 8 hours and 18 minutes, Billie Fulford-Brown)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐(5/5)
(finished book: December 2, 2024)

I want to tell you about Christmas Actually by Lisa Darcy—it’s a beautiful rollercoaster of emotions that captures the chaos and magic of the holiday season! I was hooked when I saw this audiobook suggested to me on BookBeat (not sponsored!).

The story follows Kate Cavendish, a mom juggling way too many plates, as she gets a chance to follow her dream of becoming a photographer. But life, as always, has other plans. Between her kids, her sister’s pregnancy, her mom’s new dating life (yes, you read that right!), and a nagging suspicion about her husband’s fidelity, poor Kate is overwhelmed. Add to that her lingering childhood memories and the suffocating presence of social media in her family’s life, and you’ve got a recipe for holiday drama.

Now, I’ll be honest—I’m not usually into drama (seriously, no drama, please!), but I loved how the characters in this story worked through their challenges and found ways to move forward. In that case, maybe I do like drama… when it’s paired with growth and resolution. (Hint, hint: I’ve even written about this topic! Check out my article No Drama, Please read it here.)

But what makes this book so special is how relatable it feels. Kate’s struggles are so real—self-doubt, finding balance, and trying to be everything to everyone. Lisa Darcy weaves all of this with humor, heart, and some Christmas spirit. The themes of family and forgiveness are front and center, reminding us that even in the messiest moments, there’s always hope for something beautiful.

And honestly, the portrayal of modern family life is spot on. Social media, family, career aspirations, motherhood—it’s all there in a way that feels both timely and timeless. I loved how the story balances heavier topics with light, festive moments, leaving you with that warm, fuzzy holiday glow.

I really adored this audiobook. I’m glad I found it.

IMPRACTICAL MAGIC by Emily Grimoire

(first published: October 1, 2024; Publisher: Avon; 352 pages, Paperback;
Audiobook: 10 hours and 57 minutes, Narrator: Kate Handford)

My rating: ⭐⭐ (2.5/5)
(finished book: December 10, 2024)

Impractical Magic started off with so much potential! Scarlett Melrose, the middle-child witch, returns to Oak Haven when her estranged sisters call for help—her mother’s inn has been cursed, and only Scarlett can save it. Throw in a botched spell, a rekindled flame with charming handyman Nate, and a ticking clock to fix the magical mess, and it seemed like the perfect setup for a whimsical, heartwarming tale.

But it didn’t quite land for me. While I love a good fantasy (I’m totally an “out-there” person!), the story felt too convoluted and over-the-top as it unfolded. The charm of Scarlett’s struggles and the magic of Oak Haven got lost in the chaos of too many twists and not enough depth.

It’s not all bad—the family dynamics and cozy small-town vibes will definitely appeal to some readers. For me, though, it’s a 3-star read: intriguing at first, but ultimately a little too scattered to fully enjoy.

IN A HOLIDAZE by Christina Lauren

(first published: October 6, 2020; Publisher: Gallery Books; 307 pages, Paperback;
Audiobook: 7 hours and 39 minutes, Narrator: Pattie Murin)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 12, 2024)

In a Holidaze is hands-down my favorite book by Christina Lauren so far—I absolutely adored it! I binged the audiobook in just a couple of hours (yes, double speed, of course 😄), and it was such a delight from start to finish. The perfect rom-com with just the right sprinkle of magical realism to make it truly unforgettable.

The story follows Maelyn Jones, who’s stuck in a rut. She’s back at her family’s favorite holiday getaway in Utah, surrounded by lifelong family friends, and quietly pining for Andrew, her childhood crush. But when she learns this could be their last Christmas at the cabin, and then gets caught in a Groundhog Day-style time loop after a freak accident, Maelyn has to figure out how to break the cycle—and maybe, just maybe, rewrite her life in the process.

It’s funny, heartfelt, and brimming with holiday cheer. The romantic tension between Mae and Andrew is so sweet and swoony, and I loved how the magical realism added a fun twist without overshadowing the emotional depth of the story. The humor had me laughing out loud, and the moments of vulnerability hit all the right notes.

This book is pure joy—like a warm cup of cocoa by the fire. If you’re looking for a festive, feel-good story that will make you laugh, cry, and believe in second chances, this is it. I can’t recommend it enough!

LOVELIGHT FARMS by B.K. Borison

(first published: November 10, 2021; Publisher: Berkley; 336 pages, Paperback; Lovelight #1
Audiobook: 10 hours and 15 minutes, Narrator: Pippa Jayne)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
(finished book: December 24, 2024)

Lovelight Farms is as cozy and charming as a crackling fire on a winter evening. It’s the kind of book that wraps you up in its small-town charm and makes you believe in love and second chances. The story follows Stella Bloom, the owner of a picturesque Christmas tree farm that’s on the verge of financial ruin. To save her beloved farm, Stella enters a contest to win a cash prize—but there’s a catch.

The application says the farm is run by her and her boyfriend… who doesn’t exist. Enter Luka, her best friend, who agrees to play the role of her fake boyfriend. But as the fake relationship starts feeling very real, Stella must navigate her feelings and figure out what she truly wants.

It was lovely, cozy, and oh-so-cute. I’ll definitely be diving into more of B.K. Borison’s novels after this one! Why 4 stars, you ask? While it was undeniably heartwarming and full of festive vibes, I personally missed that “hits all my notes” factor—it wasn’t all there for me. That said, it’s still such a delightful read (or listen), and I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone who loves friends-to-lovers romances with a cozy holiday backdrop. Perfect for fans of small-town charm and sweet, feel-good romance!

THE HONEYMOON CRASHERS by Christina Lauren

(first published: August 1, 2023; Publisher: Simon & Schuster; 307 pages, Paperback;
Audiobook: 4 hours and 47 minutes, 12 Speakers)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
(finished book: December 28, 2024)

I really enjoyed The Honeymoon Crashers—it’s such a fun, lighthearted listen! The audiobook format, in particular, made this an extra special experience. It’s an audioplay, with 12 talented speakers bringing the story to life, and that full-cast production took it to another level. I had a blast listening to it while doing chores or running errands—it kept me smiling the whole time!

The story follows Ami, a perfectionist maid of honor who’s determined to break her family’s wedding curse. After her own disastrous reception and recent divorce, she’s taking every precaution to make sure her twin sister Olive’s wedding goes perfectly. But Ami’s plan to surprise Olive with a huge family gathering for a destination wedding in Maui gets thrown for a loop when Brody, the carefree best man, steps in to help. Brody’s playful, laid-back attitude clashes with Ami’s meticulous plans, and the sparks between them only add more chaos to the already overwhelming preparations.

While I didn’t feel like it hit all of my notes (similar to Lovelight Farms), I still found it to be a delightful, swoon-worthy read. It’s equal parts hilarious and heartwarming, with a perfect blend of romance, family dynamics, and wedding chaos. If you’re in the mood for a fun, easy listen with great chemistry between the characters, The Honeymoon Crashers is definitely worth the listen!

THE TRUE LOVE EXPERIMENT by Christina Lauren

(first published: May 16, 2023; Publisher: Gallery Books; 409 pages, Hardcover; DNA Duo #2
Audiobook: 10 hours and 59 minutes, Narrator: Jonathan Cole; Cindy Kay)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
(finished book: December 28, 2024)

The True Love Experiment was definitely an enjoyable read/listen, though it wasn’t my absolute favorite from Christina Lauren, if I’m being honest. It was cute, funny, and had a lot of charm, making it perfect for anyone looking for a lighthearted rom-com with a little bit of reality TV spice.

The story follows Fizzy Chen, a successful romance novelist who’s been preaching love and romance her whole career, but hasn’t really experienced it herself. When she’s asked to give a commencement speech, she has a realization: she’s never been in love the way she’s written about it. And then there’s Connor Prince, a documentary filmmaker and single father, who’s been given the task of creating a reality TV show. He’s desperate for the perfect romantic lead, and when he meets Fizzy, he sees an opportunity to get the story he needs. Fizzy agrees—on her terms—and soon, The True Love Experiment begins, as sparks fly both on and off camera.

While I didn’t connect with it on the same level as some of Christina Lauren’s other books, maybe because I couldn’t connect to Fizzy’as character really, I still found it to be super fun and engaging. The chemistry between Fizzy and Connor is pretty hot, and their journey to find love feels authentic and swoon-worthy, especially with the added reality show element. If you’re a fan of Christina Lauren’s writing and want something funny, sweet, and a little bit unconventional, The True Love Experiment is definitely worth a read or a listen.

THE SOULMATE EQUATION by Christina Lauren

(first published: May 18, 2021; Publisher: Gallery Books; 360 pages, Hardcover; DNA Duo #1
Audiobook: 10 hours and 26 minutes, Narrator: Pattie Murin)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5)
(finished book: December 30, 2024)

The Soulmate Equation is a super fun and intriguing read! I actually liked it just a tad more than The True Love Experiment, though both are great in their own way. If you’re into romance with a sprinkle of science fiction, this one is for you!

The story follows Jess Davis, a single mom who’s understandably skeptical about love, especially after everything she’s been through. When she’s invited to participate in a groundbreaking DNA matchmaking experiment, she’s hesitant but also intrigued—who wouldn’t be, right? To her shock, the test reveals a jaw-droppingly high compatibility score with someone she can’t stand—Dr. River Pena, the grumpy scientist behind the project.

Of course, as these things go, what starts as disdain quickly turns into undeniable chemistry. But with Jess juggling her growing feelings for River and the challenges of being a single mom, things get complicated. Toss in the whole genetic matchmaking experiment and you’ve got a recipe for both chaos and romance.

The romance between Jess and River is a slow-burn, and watching their relationship develop from enemies to something more is truly heartwarming. I just love the enemy to lovers trope: It really does bring so much tension and chemistry to a story, doesn’t it? The back-and-forth dynamic, the slow-burning attraction, and the eventual realization that they’re perfect for each other—it’s all so satisfying for my romantic heart. **SIGH**

The book blends humor, sweetness, and some intriguing science, making it a captivating read. While The Soulmate Equation hit a bit more for me than The True Love Experiment, both novels are definitely worth diving into for anyone who loves a great romantic adventure with a unique twist, lot’s of fun and some steamy tension.

THE CHRISTMAS WISH by Lindsey Kelk

(first published: November 10, 2022; Publisher: Harper Collins; 340 pages, Hardcover;
Audiobook: 10 hours and 31 minutes, Narrator: Kristin Atherton)

My rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
(finished book: December 31, 2024)

Oh my gosh, Lindsey Kelk really knows how to deliver a warm, heartfelt holiday hug of a story! The Christmas Wish reminded me of In A Holidaze in the best way possible—cozy and familiar—but with its own unique charm that made it feel like a completely original gem. It had all the things I adore: a cute and entertaining story, a touch of depth, and a plot that wrapped my heart into a snug little bundle of joy. If you’ve been following my reviews, you already know I live for these kinds of holiday tales and tropes!

Here’s the plot: Lawyer Gwen Baker isn’t exactly thriving. Work is exhausting, her personal life is a bit of a mess, and she feels disconnected from her family. When she heads home for Christmas to try and recharge, things take an unexpected turn—she wakes up on Christmas Day to discover she’s trapped in a time loop. That’s right, Gwen is stuck reliving Christmas Day over and over again (hello, every holiday lover’s dream-slash-nightmare!). But through these repeated days, she starts to reconnect with her family, mend broken relationships, and maybe—just maybe—find love where she least expects it.

What I loved most is how this story balanced its humor and warmth with deeper themes of self-discovery, family, and second chances. Gwen’s journey is more than just festive fun; it’s about taking the time to reflect on what truly matters and finding happiness in the little moments. And the romance? Absolutely swoon-worthy.

If you’re looking for a holiday read for 2025 that’s as cozy as a mug of hot cocoa and as heartwarming as a crackling fire, The Christmas Wish is a must-read or listen! It’s easily earned a spot on my all-time favorite holiday reads list!

I hope these reviews have inspired you to pick up some of these gems or add them to your 2025 Christmas-reads list. Whenever you read this, I’m sending you so much joy and love! Enjoy diving into these stories, and don’t forget to share which ones captivated you in the comment section—I’d love to know! ❤️

All Lost In Pages Blog Posts

Update February 2025: Life is constantly changing. 2024 felt so different from 2025 already. My priorities have shifted, and as I focus on certain aspects of my life and business, other things need to make way. As much as I’ve loved writing my Lost in Pages book reflections, I need to take a step back. Crafting these reviews takes time—time I need for other projects. Thank you for reading these blog posts. And I hope you keep on reading.

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