Christmas with a Crank

by Courtney Walsh

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Christmas with a Crank by Courtney Walsh
I RECOMMEND!

Summary

A second chance with your first crush.

Doesn’t happen often.

For Liam Fisher, that first crush was his next-door neighbor, Olive Witherby.

Childhood was lazy summers, treehouse stargazing, and endless games of hide and seek at Pine Creek, the Christmas tree farm that’s been in Liam’s family for generations.

When Liam moves away, he and Olive say goodbye the only way they know how—with a fumbling first kiss neither of them will ever forget.

Even though twelve-year-olds’ promises of keeping in touch feel eternal, time and distance eventually make Olive and Liam practically strangers.

Twenty years later, Liam’s parents announce they’re retiring and selling the tree farm.

Twenty years later, Pine Creek is the last place grown-up Liam wants to be. Inherit this legacy? Not on your life.

And twenty years later, grown-up Olive is stuck.

Her work life is a lot like her love life—floundering. After a humiliating business failure, loads of debt, and one too many laughable first dates, she’s in no hurry to put herself out there again, in business or in romance.

When Olive is hired by Liam’s parents to rekindle the lost magic of the farm one final time before it’s sold, she sets out to make this the last, best Pine Creek Christmas, for the town and for a very cranky, not-so-talkative, surprisingly attractive Liam.

Part of her mission? Convince the crank to fall in love with Christmas.

The other part? Not fall head over heels in the process.

Christmas With a Crank is a grumpy/sunshine, childhood crush, opposites attract romance with plenty of sizzle but none of the steam.

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GoodReads:4.02
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My Review

I absolutely adored this sweet, clean Christmas romcom from one of my favorite romance authors! With no language or spice, it’s perfect for the holiday season and brimming with cozy winter vibes, thanks to its delightful setting on a Christmas tree farm. This festive story is packed with holiday charm and plenty of seasonal activities, making it feel like the perfect Christmastime escape.

The main characters, Liam and Olive, were a joy to follow. Their chemistry was undeniable—they complemented each other beautifully, shared witty banter, and their romance developed in such a heartwarming way. Both characters also experienced meaningful personal growth throughout the story, adding depth to the narrative and making their journeys all the more compelling.

The supporting cast of side characters, including Liam and Olive’s family and friends, added richness to the story. The dynamics between everyone felt authentic and added an extra layer of charm to the book.

If you love dual POVs, childhood crushes, best friends-to-lovers stories, grumpy/sunshine romances, small-town settings, and holiday festivities filled with winter magic, this book is a must-read. While it has the feel-good charm of a Hallmark Christmas movie, it also offers depth through its thoughtful life lessons and heartfelt messaging. Highly recommend this touching and festive holiday read!

**This book is part of a holiday romance real-time reaction episode, which you can listen to here.