25 Days ‘Til Christmas by Poppy Alexander (Review by Missi Gwartney)

Rating: 3.8 out of 5.0

Are you filled with love and joy during the holiday season or does it bring reminders of loneliness and hurt? In Alexander’s, 25 Days ‘Til Christmas, our characters Kate and Daniel struggle with finding the happiness they used to experience during the “most wonderful time of the year”. Recovering from both recent and not so recent tragedies, they will need to dig deep within themselves to make this Christmas unforgettable. But will there be enough time, determination, and patience this season for either of them to believe in Christmas miracles again?
After losing her husband in December four years ago, Kate has never had the same enthusiasm for the holiday like she used too. Despite having a job she dislikes, a boss who takes complete advantage of her, and a grim financial situation, Kate is determined to make this Christmas the best one yet. With Kate’s introduction of both an Advent Calendar and list of Christmas activities, the countdown has begun. Can Kate embrace the season or will she let the obstacles and distractions get the best of her?

Similar to Kate, Daniel is no stranger to loss as this is the first year he will “celebrate” Christmas without his sister and the thought of it is almost unbearable. Remembering their traditions, “The Christmas Tree Girl” (aka Kate), comes to mind as her kindness for his sister was so genuine but he always felt she harbored sadness during this time of year. He is drawn to Kate but has no idea what her story is.

Through several “coincidental” circumstances, Daniel and Kate end up becoming friends but both wonder if maybe there could be more. Is it time for Kate to finally open up her heart? Is Daniel ready for something serious after being so devoted to his sister? Will Daniel and Kate experience a Christmas miracle they both so desperately need?
As this book counts down to the day of Christmas, I found myself counting down right along with it. I enjoyed the book but often felt frustrated with Kate for not being stronger and always dwelling on having no money. However, I did wonder if this may have been the author’s intent so as readers we could see just how much Kate needed to overcome? The ending was predictable (as you would expect for a Christmas read) and wrapped up so fast that it was almost too good to be true.

25 Days ‘Til Christmas was a fun, quick read and inspired me to start my own version of a Christmas countdown with my family. It evoked excitement for the holiday season and who knows, it may inspire you to make this your best Christmas yet!