‘Absolutely fell in love with this book!… I just couldn’t put it down!… The perfect Christmas read!’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
Two people. One chance meeting. Seven days to Christmas.
Isobel Bennett is waiting for the number 11 bus when a man quite literally falls into her lap. Snow is falling, Christmas lights are twinkling, and a gorgeous man with dark brown hair has just slipped on ice and … dark brown hair has just slipped on ice and is now pressed against Isobel.
Isobel knows she’s not imagining the chemistry between them. But then his ride arrives and, embarrassed, he beats a hasty retreat, murmuring apologies – and Isobel realises only too late that she didn’t manage to catch his name…
When she runs into him again the next morning, she decides it’s fate.
It’s a second chance for Isobel and Tom – but there’s only one week until she’s leaving London for good. Seven days of enjoying all the festive delights the city has to offer: ice-skating at Somerset House, mulled wine on the Southbank, Christmas shopping at Liberty.
There’s magic in the air and mistletoe in the trees – but what will happen when the week is over?
For fans of Josie Silver, Lucy Diamond and Marian Keyes, this is one Christmas romance you don’t want to miss!
Readers LOVE One Week ’Til Christmas!
‘I devoured this book! I was so engrossed that I read it in one afternoon.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘One of my favourite festive reads… A gorgeous festive treat of a read.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘What a wonderful book. A total delight from the very beginning to the end… I loved it.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘A wonderful book from start to finish… Literally made me laugh out loud…An utterly perfect read. Highly recommended and worthy of five shiny stars.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘Swoon-worthy romance, laugh-out-loud comedy, more drama then you can shake a stick at… Sure to put everyone in the Christmas spirit.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘This book had me from the start… A great story to get you in the mood for Christmas.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
‘Incredible.’ NetGalley reviewer, 5 stars
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Adorable romance with two characters you can’t help but fall in love with. You end up with a smile on your lips and a good feeling. Loved it!
If, like me, you enjoy fanfiction as well as original fiction, you’re going to recognise a lot of things about this story, because it’s basically a Famous Actor/Mary-Sue OC (original character) Meet-Cute. Tom is a Famous Englishman who could be Tom Hiddleston (definitely my first pick for the role) or maybe Benedict Cumberbatch or Kit Harington or Richard Madden, and Isobel, the story’s first person narrator, is very much a blank slate for the reader to project themselves onto. There’s almost no physical description of her at all – I think ‘tawny hair’ is mentioned once and that’s it. So honestly if you’ve ever wished someone to write a story featuring yourself and your favourite hot British actor, this is as close as you’re going to get. It’s fluffy, delightful, and stuffed more full of Christmas spirit than a brandy plum pudding.
And yet. Buried in amongst the wish fulfillment of being romanced by a star and the twee charm of a London Christmas, there’s some powerful messages we could all take to heart. Yes, Isobel is living what for many of us would be a dream job as a travel writer, but she’s honest about the less than glamorous aspects of her job. She has friends in every corner of the globe but dreams of greater purpose, of being able to pick her own assignments, and in the course of the story makes a decision to take a chance and chase her dream. Her romance with Tom is something of a fairy tale… but there are powerful messages there too, about compromises and family, about how sometimes you have to put yourself first or live forever with might-have-beens.
Does this read absolutely like a script for a British-set Hallmark Christmas movie? Absolutely. Did I love every fluffy, fan-fiction-y wish-fulfilling page? Darn right I did, and so will you. Five stars.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this book via NetGalley.
Isobel Bennett is a travel writer, seeming to be always on the road. She enjoys the travel and the places she visits, getting to know historic places and small town festivals. She makes friends wherever she lands. The only things she doesn’t have time for are television and current movies. Her main regret – not being home for family events and holidays. She finally gets a chance to be in London at Christmas, quite the change from her home in Australia but she is determined to be home for Christmas. She starts her vacation with an accidental come together and a phone call for a last minute assignment.
Isobel and Tom’s whirlwind romance is not only Hallmark Movie worthy, it is beautifully written. I love the descriptive phrasing and laugh out loud moments. I could picture myself in the scene close enough to touch. Some might say things moved too quickly but sometimes in life, when you know you’ve only got one shot, you need to take a leap of faith. Tastefully handled with both parties being honest about living in the moment.
It was slow at first but I gave it time and it developed into a sweet love story. HAPPILY EVER AFTER AT CHRISTMAS. GREAT!!!!!!
‘One week til Christmas’ is such a lovely and heartwarming festive read. I am an absolute sucker for charming meet cutes and thought it was both delightful and funny how Isobel and Tom bumped into each other at a busy London bus stop. I also adored the magic of the stars aligning with their jobs in order for them to meet again. Belinda poured so much warmth and cheer in to this gorgeous book and I thoroughly enjoyed being with Isobel and Tom for their festive week of fun and getting to know one another.
I felt a lovely sense of calm getting to join Isobel and Tom while they explored London. Their relationship progressed in a beautiful manner. I loved that they listened to each other and talked and laughed, and while yes they only had a short space of time to get to know one another, their was this magic to their banter, like they had known each other for a long time, and it didn’t feel rushed. They were both very joyful characters that came across worldly and charming. You couldn’t help rooting for them and loving being in their presence.
This book will have you making Christmas ‘To Do’ lists, i’m already looking for places to go ice-skating, and it will have you believing in the magic of Christmas. Furthermore, I truly loved that Isobel and Tom compromised and fought for each other. Without wanting to give the ending away too much it truly made my heart smile; sometimes people are worth travelling half way around the world for.
I highly recommend you add ‘One week til Christmas’ to your festive TBR pile!
Happy reading!
I came across One Week ’Til Christmas one day while browsing Netgalley for Christmas titles, and I requested it immediately. I’m so glad I did because I devoured this book and it soared right onto my list of favourite festive reads. It was witty, charming, and gave me the warm fuzzies. I basically had a big cheesy grin on my face through most of the book.
I’ve always wanted to visit London around Christmastime, so the setting drew me in and made me completely starry eyed. I felt like I was there with Isobel and Tom as they explored the city, and it all felt so wonderfully magical and festive. I loved Tom and Isobel together. Their banter was hilarious, as was a lot of Isobel’s inner dialogue. Tom was so swoony, and I loved that he turned out to be completely different from what I initially expected. {MILD SPOILER}: I think it’s a fantasy for a lot of people to meet, spend time with, and maybe even fall in love with a celebrity. I know I’d certainly like to spend a few days hanging out with Richard Madden! That bit of the story felt different from the other celeb-dates-normal-person story for a lot of reasons, but mostly because Tom really felt like a real person. He never used his celebrity to get his way or try to impress anyone. He was passionate about his job and enjoyed talking about it, but he was humble and charming, and I adored him. {END SPOILER}
I absolutely loved this magical, whirlwind of a romance and I know I’ll be recommending it a lot this holiday season and for many more to come.
*Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts are my own
My Rating:
4.5
Favorite Quotes:
I’m just like Halley’s Comet… Only I show up more often and I’m not as bright.
Most of my articles are written in pyjamas while I snack on a bag of jelly snakes and bemoan the fact I’m out of wine and too lazy to walk the block and a half necessary to procure another bottle,’ I added. ‘I’m surprised I don’t own seven cats and have bird’s-nest hair.
‘… my mother dressed my older sister and me in identical outfits. I remember once, my hair was braided so tightly I suspect it was also my first foray into cosmetic surgery.’ It was also the same year my sister ripped the head off my new Barbie doll, about three minutes after I’d unwrapped the box. She liked it more than the one she’d received. She wanted it. I didn’t give it up without a fight. Hence, Decapitation Barbie became a thing. We superglued her head back on, but she was a little stiff after that.
I felt my throat close and my words wobble around like a drunk on a trampoline.
Considering how bloody sardonic and deadpan you are most of the time, it becomes really noticeable when all he has to do is orbit somewhere in your direction and you light up like a Griswold Christmas.
My Review:
A handsome man had Isobel in a puddle on first sight, no not like that, an actual puddle with water. Tom had accidentally knocked her into the gutter but he was gloriously handsome, and she was so stunned she couldn’t even complain about being wet or within inches of being run over by a bus. Wow, talk about making a brain searing first impression. This was a slow burn and sweet four-star romance with top-shelf five-star humor as well as an off the beaten path London travel log. I am itching to dust off my passport for the butter grog alone, I Googled it. The pleasantly entertaining storylines were light, easy to follow, and featured a sweet romance peppered with clever levity, interesting characters, witty banter, career angst, and a taste of family drama. I adore Belinda Missen and covet her quick wit and comedic wordplay.
*whispers*
C’mere! Come sit *pats seat*.
I’ll let you all in on a not-so-secret-secret – in RL I don’t have a romantic bone in my body. Yet, books are another matter entirely, I soak romance up like a sponge. *giggles* Shh! It’s our secret, right? *winks*
So, OWTC was everything my swoony-loving heart could ask for (but remember, secret!).
Plus, the cherry on top (even though I hate maraschino cherries – bleurgh!), was the festive setting. I’m about all things Christmas at the moment (sixth book in and counting…). Side note: The Mommy thinks I’ve become a casualty of the Pod people *snorts*.
This is only the second book I’ve read by Belinda Missen, but Isobel and Tom’s story has just cemented my love of her writing. Reading this book was effortless. I just got carried away with the ‘what ifs?’, possibilities and romance of it all. While all the time keeping everything crossed for a HEA.
Prepare to experience the magic of Christmas, and with each turn of the page, fall in love with two characters who’ll steal your heart. The festive feeling is well and truly alive in the Nelson household.
*squees loudly*
I can’t wait for the Christmas markets to open in George Square. It’s a feast for the senses and all the twinkly lights make my heart sing. And, I’m craving freshly fried churros with chocolate dipping sauce from the food stalls.
Sorry, I went off on a tangent there…
Anyhoo, if like me, you enjoy a festive read (or dozen) this time of year then make sure and add OWTC to your list.
Now, *taps chin* any chance of finding a Tom waiting for me under the tree on Christmas morning?
*shakes head*
Huh, I doubt it either.
3.5 stars. I received an advance copy of this novel from the publisher, HQ Digital, through Netgalley.
I am a sucker for holiday romances. It’s the only time I can put up with a little extra cheesiness in my books. One Week ‘Til Christmas is light on the cheese and heavy on the romance, just how I prefer my Christmas reads. And bonus, this one takes place in London! Who doesn’t want to live vicariously through two charming people falling in love during Christmas in London??
The main characters are fleshed out and engaging, and while I’m not one of those readers who hate insta-love, their meet-cute worked for me. This was an arc I read, and there were a few things lost in translation, but I also very much enjoyed that it wasn’t Americanized for readers in the US. My only critique is I feel like it could have used some more editing, tightening up, maybe some more time spent on a few scenes. Sometimes things felt rushed and glossed over. And no, I’m not talking about sex scenes.
Overall, I enjoyed it and it definitely helped kick off the holiday season!
This super cute Christmas season book was perfect for the winter season. It will make you believe in Christmas love magic. Set it London you just wish you were walking the winter markets with them during it all.
Isobel is a travel writer that is on holiday in London but her boss asks her to do a last minute interview which leads her on a crazy week full of love, memories, ice skating, mulled wine, and shopping trips all with a dreamy man.
Tom is a TV star, theater geek, romantic, and mostly a normal likable guy. Even though he is a star he feels like the boy next door with his “surprise mail packages”, takeout, coffee run, and riding the bus.
This was a wonderful little read to set you into the holiday spirit! Overall, I give it 4 stars as the writing was great, keep you engaged, LOL moments, and some twists and turns to the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and HQ Digital for the ARC of this book in exchange for the honest review provided here.
‘One Week ‘Til Christmas’ is one of those books that I just could not put down, so much so, I read it in one sitting.
Set during the week leading up to Christmas, Tom and Isobel take us on a journey through London where the festive season is in full swing. Winter markets, ice-skating, mulled wine, mistletoe – all those Northern Hemisphere Christmas traditions. Being someone who celebrates Christmas every year in the Australian heat, being transported to London where it’s completely the opposite is a welcome thought.
Like with Belinda’s other works, I find the narrative and character banter draws me in, and I easily picture the story in my head as I read along – these types of stories are by far my favourite. The relationship between Isobel and Tom is beautifully portrayed, and Belinda made the way in which they fell into rhythm with one another, altogether natural.
This is a wonderfully written book, full of laughter, romance, and festivities. I would definitely recommend it to those who love a good rom-com. Belinda never disappoints and this book is no exception. Looking forward to what she has in store for future works.
The story was incredibly sweet and very enjoyable. I truly loved the whole point of meeting someone by accident, slowly falling in love with them, and then having to make difficult choices about career, future, and basically about life in general. These are the topics that I really like seeing more in a chick-lit book, other than focusing on the romance. I wouldn’t mind the romance, but I really like it more if it focus on other important subjects that many people can relate to.
In this story, I can say that I truly understood Isobel. I can relate to her problem having to make a difficult choice, especially when it comes to her career. I can see how unsure she was when it comes to quitting her job, and then starting her own blog. When I first started my own blog, I was worried and anxious about so many things. I had to think more about my career as a blogger, and sometimes I was still afraid I won’t make it. And to see that in Isobel feels like her character’s struggle is my own, and that’s why I can relate to her more. But Isobel is so brave and there are other people in her life that support her decision, and I truly admired that.
I loved how Isobel just go with the flow and doesn’t overthink things. Even though sometimes she was worried, she brushed it off and just enjoy her day. She just follow where life takes her to, and I liked that she wasn’t afraid to take any chances at all. Isobel is a very patient and calm woman. I also liked how she stay true to her words and always put her family first despite her desire to stay with a man who she finally fall in love with. Isobel is just an overall a nice and sweet character.
On the other hand, Tom Bracken is a nice gentleman with great manners. It’s hard to find a character like him in other books. So I’m glad to meet him here. He has a way with words, he was so sweet and charming, but most importantly the way he speaks and the way he acts are what makes him more attractive, and very interesting. He is a very nice man, and I loved just everything about him, except for the part near the end where he was stubborn and doesn’t want to listen to an explanation from Isobel. Seeing that side of him was quite scary, but he doesn’t usually act like that.
He was amazing, and very entertaining. I loved how he explains everything about his occupation, about theatrical plays, and basically about London and his life to Isobel with great and addictive words, and very-detailed descriptions. If Tom Bracken is real, I could listen to him talking all day, I know I wouldn’t get bored because he makes talking and explaining more enjoyable. Plus, he talks a lot about important things in life. I truly appreciate what he was saying, and I really admired his talents. He also loved to make a joke and had a great sense of humor, so that makes his character very likable. He is an overall a fun character.
Tom and Isobel’s romance was cute and sweet. Their accidental meeting was truly surprising but also funny in a way. I can already imagine the chaotic scene and I find it to be so hilarious. I seriously feel bad for laughing. But, seeing these two spending most of their times in London together and try getting to know one another was pretty sweet. Their connection was very instant, but the slow-burn romance makes it more better. At least, the author didn’t make these two jump straight into a relationship, but instead slowly build up their romance and make a proper development to their characters before putting Tom and Isobel together romantically. I really dig the slow-burn because the result will always be epic.
I know all the good times they shared are too good to be true, but it was still shocking to see that a couple more chapters before the story ends, there was a little heated moment between Tom and Isobel. But of course Christmas miracle always work its way and mend the hurt. The main problem has always been about what will happen once Isobel left? But to see another problem in the picture really caught me off guard. It just create an intense tension between Tom and Isobel. The thing about leaving was another thing, and it saddens me to see Isobel so heartbroken by the fact that she couldn’t stay. I loved how the Christmas miracle is working and helped Tom and Isobel found a way to be together. It was very predictable of course, because this type of book doesn’t end with sadness, but happiness.
The story ended with an incredibly beautiful ending. I was satisfied by the ending, just like how I imagined it to be. I was glad that I chose to read this book, and am happy that I ended up enjoying the story. It was a story full of happiness and unforgettable moments that will remain as the best thing to ever happen in life. Having strong leads like Tom and Isobel makes the story more brilliant than it already is.
If you want to get into an early Christmas spirit, then I suggest you to pick this book up. There are lots of fun adventures you can enjoy through Tom and Isobel.
ONE WEEK ‘TIL CHRISTMAS by Belinda Missen is, on paper, the type of light read that would easily make my Christmas reading list easily; it’s a romance and it takes place in London, one of my favourite places to visit.
Ultimately, the story did not fully capture my attention for two main reasons. First, for a relationship that’s meant to take place over a short period of time, it was a very slow-moving one. Our couple did not spend much time together overall. And the partial cause for this, which is my second reason, is I feel the author tried to include too many topics in the one book. How can you even make time for a romance when you’re thinking about making significant changes to your career, questioning your lifestyle, feeling pressure from a family who live on the other side of the world, and you are having issues with an employer whose ethics are morally objectionable. There were just too many competing themes that ultimately took away from the romance aspect.
Having personally spent one Christmas in London, I enjoyed taking a trip down memory lane. I also enjoyed the scenes when Tom talks about his time in the theatre. And in amongst this, our couple do share some very romantic experiences, which were lovely to read.