Book Summary: 

Every Kringle in Kringletown celebrated Christmas a lot.

But Cole Black on Whistler Lane, unfortunately, did not.

As his fellow citizens decorate their quaint town, brimming with carols and glad tidings, Cole wants nothing more than to hibernate the winter away. But his dreary plans are thwarted when his Christmas nemesis, Storee Taylor, moves in next door to care for her Aunt Cindy. Immediately, the new neighbor turns his life into a real nightmare before Christmas, especially when she decides to enter the town Christmas Kringle contest in honor of Cindy. And better yet, Storee is determined to win.

Over Cole’s dead body, she will. With help from his friend Max, Cole decides to enter the competition as well, to beat Storee at her own game by pretending that this hometown grump’s heart has grown three sizes this season and he’s fallen for the girl next door. And unfortunately for Storee, she has to follow his lead to have a chance at the Christmas Kringle title.

But the competition isn’t the only thing that heats up. Cole and Storee’s fake relationship becomes very real, and before they know it, they’re attempting to hide it from Aunt Cindy. Things get complicated, the competition gets tough, and all it takes is one single night for someone to steal it all…

Mini Review:

I know the bookernet (totally making this a word) is divided on this one, but here’s my verdict: this book was fantastic! I had such a good time reading it. My absolute favorite parts were when Cole and the narrator went head-to-head – it was such a unique element that completely sold the story for me.

Overall, I can see both sides of the argument for this book. For those looking for a traditional holiday/Christmas romantic comedy with the Hallmark stamp of approval, this is not it. While the story takes place around Christmas, the season isn’t really relevant to the plot. Yes, the Christmas competition drives the story forward, but for most readers seeking holiday books, they’re hoping for the magic of the season or a heartwarming Christmas miracle. In a town where Christmas is celebrated year-round, that magic feels more like the norm. 

That said, the play on How the Grinch Stole Christmas was both creative and charming. If you’re familiar with the original story, you’ll notice clever nods in the names and scenarios. But if you’re not, don’t worry – you don’t need to be familiar to fully enjoy this book.

This playful twist on a Christmas classic will have you grinning ear to ear at the antics of Cole and Max, cracking up at the banter and battles between Cole and Storee, and falling in love with the wonderful community of characters.