This was my first experience with this author, and I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this sweet, charming YA holiday romance. I chose the audiobook and thought all three narrators did a wonderful job. They brought the characters and setting to life in a very engaging way. I also appreciated the clean content with no language or spice. To note, the story does include a gay side character.

The book feels very much like a YA Christmas Hallmark-style romance. It is not particularly original, but it is still a delightful take on young love during the holiday season. The story moves between past and present, and I really liked the glimpses of earlier years. Watching Emma and Aiden build a close bond gave the present-day storyline more emotional weight. This is a best friends-to-lovers romance with childhood crushes and a good amount of miscommunication. Normally, that trope is not a favorite of mine, but it works here. Since these are teenagers who are still learning how to navigate feelings and communication, I found it believable and forgivable.

Both Emma and Aiden are very easy to like. Emma is bright, quirky, silly, and genuinely endearing. Aiden is shy, steady, and very sweet. Together, they make an adorable couple.

The setting is another highlight. I loved the small town atmosphere and all the holiday touches. Some seasonal romances barely feel like Christmas, but this one is filled with festive moments such as decorating, sipping warm drinks, ice skating, and sledding. It creates a cozy winter mood that fits perfectly with a December read. Emma and Aiden adore peppermint hot chocolate, which made me smile because I happened to be sipping a chocolate mint coffee latte while listening. A fun bit of serendipity.

Overall, this is a lovely and heartwarming YA Christmas romcom with likeable characters and plenty of festive cheer. The audiobook is only about seven hours, so it is easy to enjoy in a single day. If you like clean, closed-door young adult romances, this is a great pick for the holiday season. Definitely recommend it!