If you love cheerful Christmas stories with string female characters this is the book for you. It has hallmark energy but with better writing. The connections are authentic, the plot is cute and warm but still well thought out, and the MC didn’t sacrifice personal or professional growth along the way like often happens in stories like this.

This holiday rom-com delivers all the seasonal magic you'd hope for—chilly weather, warm pastries, and a reluctant heroine rediscovering joy one Advent calendar task at a time. From the author of The Christmas Wager, this story follows Callie, freshly heartbroken and deep in grinch mode, as she’s nudged (okay, pushed) back into the holiday spirit by her loving, meddling sister.

The Advent calendar challenge adds a sweet and nostalgic structure to the story, giving readers something to look forward to each day right alongside Callie. Enter the swoony, kind-hearted baker who brings just the right amount of cinnamon-sugar charm to melt her frosty exterior. Their growing connection is slow and believable, with a healthy dose of holiday flirtation and emotional healing.

The book shines in its cozy vibes, lovable side characters, and gentle themes of self-discovery and hope. It’s predictable in places (as most holiday romances are), but that’s part of the comfort. If you’re looking for a light, festive read that blends humor, heart, and baked goods, this one is a delightful addition to your winter TBR.

I love a good Christmas story and All Callie is being dragged into the Season by her sister Anita in the midst of her grief from a breakup. The Advent calendar challenge is so much fun- I loved it!

If you’re looking to get into the spirit of the holidays or just want to read something that feels like a warm hug, I highly recommend this book.

Hannah was so lovely and shared some of her inspirations in writing the book, as well as answered our many questions. It was so nice for all of our members to meet her and chat with her throughout the evening. We had a great discussion about themes like traditions, family, letting go, and romantic relationships. The book is set in a town called Fallbrook, but is based on Oakville where Hannah lives, so it was nice for us as the Oakville chapter to be able to recognize a lot of the settings that were used in the book.

I absolutely devoured this book during the holiday season. It was very well written and the advent calendar idea was so unique and fun! I felt just as excited as the main character was to open a new advent challenge or gift. The love story was just the cherry on top! I highly recommend this book for Christmas time, or any time during the year that you need to lift your spirits. I also appreciate a book with LGBTQ themes, so it is an all around yes for me!

All Callie wants for Christmas is to stay home. She doesn't want to interact with anyone or go back to her hometown and run into her ex who now has a nice shiny new girlfriend. However, her sister has other plans in mind. Instead she creates an interactive Advent calendar in hopes of trying to get her sister into the Christmas spirit. When one of the challenges brings Marco into Callie's things change and now she is starting to get into the Christmas spirit. But is the Christmas spirit and Marco enough to get Callie to consider going back home?

This book was a cute holiday romance. I felt swept up into a Hallmark movie throughout the entirety of this book. This book not only kept you hooked but was an easy read that should progressional growth of Callie's character. At first she was a little frustrating being so hung up on her ex, but I suppose if the roles were reversed any woman may have apprehension about seeing their ex constantly and then having to back to your hometown with them being your neighbor. So in the grand scheme of things Callie's reactions are not too terrible.

The only thing that I did not enjoy about the book was that at times it felt very drawn out, I understand that the story takes place over the course of the Christmas season but sometimes the chapters were a little too descriptive that I felt myself losing interest in the book at times.

Overall, this is a cute book that makes you feel like you are in a snow globe. If you love Hallmark movies, romance and the Christmas season then you will enjoy this book.

The Christmas Countdown is a heartwarming holiday read. Callie, still hurting from a breakup, wants to skip Christmas, but her sister Anita has other plans. Anita's homemade Advent calendar, filled with cheerful tasks, nudges Callie into the holiday spirit. Reluctantly, Callie participates and meets a charming baker who might be just what she needs. As they complete the activities together, Callie's views on love and the holidays are challenged. The likable characters and engaging story make this book a delightful read. It beautifully captures the essence of Christmas, with themes of love, family, and new beginnings. Overall, 3.75/5 stars.

This is a cute Christmas romance about a woman, Callie, facing her first Christmas season after her boyfriend and close family friend of 10 years has broken up with her, while still living in the same town and working at the same company as him. She comes from a Christmas-loving family but is dreading the holiday season this year and has decided not to go home for Christmas. In an effort to cheer her up, her older sister/roommate creates an advent calendar challenge for her that includes a mix of holiday-themed treats and tasks to complete. When her sister has to leave town for work leaving Callie to complete the remaining calendar tasks alone, a cute baker she met at the Christmas tree market taps in to help her and holiday shenanigans ensue.

While I found this book to be a cute, quick read that was entertaining, I thought it was over-the-top cheesy with a lot of dialogue that I couldn't imagine real people actually saying to each other. It was also very predictable. However, if you're just looking for an easy Christmas book while you're home for the holidays, this might just fit the bill!

Thank you to Putnam for the eARC!

This was a fun fluffy Christmas read that was just the book I needed after reading a book that was sad. I wouldn't say that there was anything wrong with this book as it did its job to be full of Christmas and a light read, but it was on the slower side for me and I didn't feel deeply connected with the characters as much as I would have liked. I don't think that's always a bad thing though as long as it's enjoyable.

Overall, this was a decent read and looking forward to this author's next book.

Unfortunately i didnt love this one, i feel like it was unrealistic and borderline cheesy. I wanted more from the mains, but the advent calendar game seemed childish.

Great read! I loved this special Christmas romance by star writer Holly Cassidy. It was more than a romance--it was a sister story, a community story, with so much heart and tradition.

**3-Star Review of *The Christmas Countdown* by Holly Cassidy**

*The Christmas Countdown* by Holly Cassidy is a light, festive read that delivers plenty of holiday cheer, though it doesn’t quite bring anything fresh to the table. The story follows Jess, a woman who finds herself caught up in a whirlwind romance during the lead-up to Christmas. She begins a "countdown" of sorts to help her navigate the holiday season, and along the way, romance and self-discovery unfold in a familiar, feel-good way.

Cassidy does a nice job of evoking the holiday spirit, and the setting is filled with Christmas charm—from the decorations to the cozy winter vibes. The romance is sweet and develops at a steady pace, though the plot itself is predictable, and there aren’t many surprises along the way. Jess is an endearing protagonist, but her character doesn’t always feel as fleshed out as she could be, and some of the secondary characters lack depth.

Overall, *The Christmas Countdown* is an easy, enjoyable read for fans of holiday romance. It's perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in the warmth of Christmas, but it doesn’t offer much in terms of originality or emotional depth. It’s a fun escape, but ultimately, it’s a forgettable addition to the seasonal romance genre.

Thank you NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam, G.P. Putnam’s Sons for granting me access to this book in exchange for an honest review.

This was the sweetest and most heartwarming holiday rom-com! The Christmas Countdown follows Callie, a young woman still reeling from heartbreak after being dumped by her childhood sweetheart. With no desire to face the holidays, she is fully in Grinch mode. But her sister, Anita, refuses to let her wallow and creates a homemade Advent calendar filled with festive challenges to reignite her holiday spirit. Along the way, Callie meets a charming baker who gently pushes her out of her comfort zone.

I absolutely loved all the festive activities and sweet treats woven into the story, and the countdown to Christmas in each chapter made it even more magical! Callie’s personal growth was so rewarding to watch, and I found myself rooting for her to open up her heart again!

If you’re looking for a cute, cozy and clean holiday read then this is the book for you! I wholeheartedly recommend!! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

Callie is facing her first Christmas as a single woman after her childhood sweetheart breaks her heart. In a bid to lift her spirits, her sister Anita creates a homemade Advent calendar filled with cheerful challenges and treats, reminiscent of their childhood traditions. Reluctantly, Callie agrees to participate, but her plans take a delightful turn when she meets Marco, a charming baker who joins her in completing the tasks. Together, they tackle the calendar's challenges, from decorating a Christmas tree to taking a cooking class, all while navigating the ups and downs of newfound friendship and potential romance. As Callie starts to rediscover the magic of the holidays, she finds herself slowly letting go of her past and embracing the possibilities of love again. With the help of her sister and Marco, Callie's journey is filled with warmth, humor, and festive cheer, leading to a heartwarming conclusion that reminds her, and readers, of the joys of the season.

Readers will be enjoy this holiday tale, as it combines themes of self-discovery, friendship, and love. Callie's transformation from a Grinch to someone who embraces the holiday spirit is relatable and heartwarming. The chemistry between Callie and Marco is palpable, filled with punny banter and sweet moments that make their relationship both believable and enjoyable. Readers will appreciate the emphasis on honesty and communication in their budding romance, presenting a refreshing take on love. The engaging narrative, sprinkled with festive activities and cozy moments, creates a perfect backdrop for the burgeoning romance. With its lighthearted tone and uplifting message, this book is a delightful escape that reminds readers of the magic of Christmas and the power of love, making it a must-read for anyone who adores holiday romance. It's quick it's fun and slightly spicy. I loved it and it's perfect to get you in the mood for Christmas....even months ahead of time ;)

This was an amazing book. I love the romance. I enjoyed the storyline and I love that it was about Christmas. Christmas books are my favorite. Definitely a 5 star must read

This Christmas, Callie has decided to stay away from home, still nursing her wounded heart after breaking up with her ex—who grew up next door and is now returning home with his new girlfriend.

Callie's sister Anita, who's traveling for the month, tries unsuccessfully to persuade Callie to return home for the holidays. When her initial efforts fail, Anita creates an Advent calendar challenge designed to lift Callie's spirits and reconnect her with the joy of Christmas.

During one of the challenge activities, Callie meets an attractive baker, and soon they find themselves tackling the Advent challenges together.
This story offers a refreshing and enjoyable approach to holiday romance with its creative premise.

Thank you to NetGalley and PENGUIN GROUP Putnam for providing an advance copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Callie moved to follow her boyfriend after college and he dumped her soon after she arrived. They work at the same company and she cannot get away from him and his new girlfriend. She decided not to go home for Christmas (the boyfriend’s is her family’s next door neighbor) and definitely isn’t in the Christmas spirit. Callie’s sister, Anita, is determined to get her into the holiday spirit and makes an advent calendar full of treats and tasks like their mom used to make. They are all set to do it together when Anita has to leave town for a two week work trip. Callie promises to continue with the treats and tasks. It just so happens that she keeps running into Marco, the handsome baker, and he joins her for the remainder of the calendar. Of course it doesn’t all go as planned, but this fun holiday read ends exactly the way you think it will!

We follow our main character, Callie, who is spending her first Christmas as a single woman, after her childhood sweetheart ditched her for someone more exciting. (uhm, literally HOW FREAKIN' RUDE!)
So, to combat the Christmas blues, Callie's sister Anita organizes a giant advent calendar full of treats and tasks to get Callie out of her comfort zone and build back her confidence! I love this for her. What a true sister and how sweet of her too. An oh so sweet and charming baker, Marco, joins her in the challenge & helps further push Callie out of her comfort zone and move on from her ex. This is a true fluffy Christmas-y cheerful book that is much needed, really anytime of the year. I liked the romance, especially the emphasis on honesty in their relationship and how open they were with each other.
This is also a closed door romance, so sadly nothing spicy to report on that front.

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and the publisher for a copy of this eARC in exchange for my honest review.

This holiday rom-com delivers a heartwarming and festive story with a dash of humor and plenty of charm. Callie, a woman who's been burned by love and is now in full Grinch mode, reluctantly embarks on an Advent calendar challenge created by her well-meaning sister, Anita. The concept is sweet—cheerful holiday tasks to help Callie rediscover her love for Christmas, herself, and possibly even love again.

The book captures that perfect holiday vibe, with all the cozy, feel-good moments you’d expect from a Christmas romance. Callie’s initial resistance to the challenges is relatable and adds a nice layer of tension to her eventual transformation. Enter the charming baker, who brings just the right amount of sweetness (literally and figuratively) into her life, and you’ve got all the ingredients for a classic holiday romance.

Deep exhale on this one. It was not good and I kept hoping it would get better because the premise was cute. There was WAY too much 'extra' text' and the dialogue was stuffy and just not authentic at all. I remember one scene where Marco explains that his mom was a chef and how formative it was for him to see her passion for cooking....why then does the Callie character need to ask if that's where he got the love of cooking from?? That's just one scene out of soooo many that needed work. I honestly should have DNFed it but kept going and gave it two stars for the idea alone.