All in for Christmas by Ginny Baird feels like a perfect blend of festive charm, a sweet golden retriever, and a second chance romance that will give you butterflies! It’s one of those warm, and magical rom coms that makes for the perfect holiday escape! The story follows Paige, a practical and career focused teacher who thinks she’s got her life pretty much figured out, until her college ex, Dean, unexpectedly reappears and throws her for a loop. Then thanks to a little holiday magic, she wakes up in an alternate version of her life where she is married to Dean with two kids and a dog. Paige is suddenly navigating potty training, school drop offs, and household chaos while wondering if this alternate life is actually what she’s always wanted deep down. There’s a light touch of magical realism that works perfectly for a Christmas read. It’s heartwarming, hopeful, and full of charm!

4.5 stars. I really enjoyed this whimsical “what if” Christmas story featuring an alternate reality in which, Paige, and her ex, Dean, end up together in a bit of magic. In one reality, Paige is a single English teacher who split with Dean six years ago, when Dean left for an internship in Puerto Rico, and Paige remained behind to finish her degree. But in a new reality, Paige never got her degree, and instead married Dean, with them later having two kids and an adorable dog.

I love magical stories, and coupled with Christmas, ALL IN FOR CHRISTMAS was a winner for me. This concept has been done slightly differently before, but I really enjoyed the characters, writing, and plot. Five-year-old Eleanor and two-year-old Henry were especially delightful. And what isn’t there to love about their big, fluffy dog, Scout?

This was by no means a sappy romance. This book is for those who love Christmas with a bit of wholesome romance mixed in. And the ending was just perfect. I would love to see this made into a Christmas movie!

🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟

A second chance romance set at Christmas?
Characters who will melt your heart?
Expertly written banter and swoon-worthy men?
Yes, please!