I love Debbie Macomber and one of my favorite things about her books are that they are short, sweet, and usually predictable (in the best way). But this one was so slow and I think because of that the predictability didn’t work for me this time around. Which is a bummer because any stories centered around God are my favorite kinds. But of course I’ll continue to read her novels because usually they are wins for me.

Such a nice holiday story. This one is set back a bit in time, to 1977. Hank and Pete are best friends from high school and still live two towns away from each other. The two meet for lunch monthly and on a whim (and hoping the other will see reason), they decide to switch jobs the week of Christmas. The best part is that Pete is a pastor and Hank, a bartender. Both quickly discover neither job is as easy as it looks on the surface. They make new friends and find a little romance along the way as the story reaches an unforgettable Christmas service. Macomber can always counted on to write a heartwarming tale for the holidays

I really wanted to like this story, but it was too Jesusy and religious for my cup of tea, I know that it is hit or miss with Debbie Macomber books, and unfortunately this was a miss for me.

This is a fast, easy read perfect for a busy holiday season! I loved the storyline and the characters because they were so out of their element taking on a new role, yet they made such a difference in the people they worked with. I loved the theme of loving people like Jesus despite their imperfections because it matches the spirit of Christmas so well.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Publishing Group for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Once again, Debbie Macomber brings the Hallmark movie spirit to life with her latest Christmas novel. A pastor and a bar owner switch places for the week leading up to Christmas, learning a lot of life lessons and maybe even finding love along the way. While this plot was not my favorite (it got a little too churchy for my liking), this book had so much of the sweet Christmas spirit I have come to know and love from Debbie. I do enjoy her writing and how her books feel like a warm, cozy blanket. If you like her other holiday books, you will enjoy this one as well!

Thank you to Ballantine Books for the advance copy.

Two friends decide to trade places for the week before Christmas. Hank owns a bar and Peter is a pastor. Their jobs couldn’t be more different - or so they think. As it turns out, their responsibilities are more similar than they could have thought. As they begin to see each other her in new light, they also encounter love. What started as a fun little experiment ends up being more life changing than they could have imagined.

This was a sweet and fun holiday read - perfect for the Christmas season! As usual. Debbie MacComber once again delivers the perfect holiday book. Thank you to Randomhouse Ballantine, Netgalley and Debbie MacComber for the ARC! This book is out now.

This review will be shared to my Instagram blog (@books_by_the_bottle) shortly 😁

What a feel good Christmas Story! I really enjoyed reading this book, it is a feel good Christmas story with a heart warming lesson about judging people by first impressions. Pete and Hank are life long friends who change places and learn some life lessons and find unexpected surprises along the way. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

What a wonderful Christmas read, in true Debbie Macomber fashion. Hank and Pete, best friends who think they have a harder job than the other, decide to swap places for a few days. Hank goes to oversee the church that Pete is the Pastor of and Pete goes to run the tavern that Hank owns. It was exactly what they needed for their perceptions to change and for them each to be put in the paths of the women they could love. This is a great, quick, holiday read.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for a copy of the ebook in exchange for my honest review.

Truly adored this heartwarming small town holiday journey filled with witty and engaging charters, heart racing twists and lots of laugh out loud fun moments. Was a great read from beginning to end and left me with all the best holiday feels.

The Christmas Spirit is a short and sweet read if you are interested in a religious Christmas story. Hank and Pete are best friends and decide to spend the week in each others shoes thinking they each have it easier. That week is transformative for both of them and those around them. I am a fan of Debbie Macomber and especially her Christmas books but this one felt lacking. It was so short that i felt like I was missing half the story, so it was hard to connect to the characters that much. It also was very very religious, more than previous books in my opinion. I do love the format of the storytelling and its well written.

I love Debbie Macomber's Christmas books and this was no exception! I actually think this is one of my favorites! It's not an original concept or anything but it was executed well and it made me laugh and that is what I like from my Christmas romances. :)

Hank and Pete have been friends since they were young and even though their paths took different directions as they got older they always made sure to get together for lunch at least once a month. During one of these meetings they started talking about how each though the other had the better life. Hank owns a Tavern and Pete is a local pastor. They decide to change lives for a week!

Pete has a lot of things to do to get reading for Christmas Eve, and Christmas at the church and Hank learns that being a pastor isn't as easy as it might seem. Grace, Pete's sister is not happy with this switch as she feels that Hank will ruin her brothers reputation. Pete thinks that being a tavern owner would be easy until he gets there and meets some of the locals. Thank goodness, Millie a waitress from the one of Petes hangouts come to his rescue.

This was just full of the warm and fuzzies and also very comical. I laughed at so many moments in this book. I could see myself rereading this one again during another Christmas time.The way it was told was fun as well. It starts out with a grandmother telling her two grandkids a story, she tells them this one isn't a made up story that it really happens and during the story there are present day interuptions with the kids asking questions, the boy getting grossed out by the kissing scenes, it was cute.

I loved all the characters, Hank and Grace, Pete and Millie, their other friends and some of the local patrons like the bikers! So many fun scenes with Pete and the bikers...lol.

If you want a fun, warm and fuzzy Christmas read I highly recommend it!

This was a heartwarming Christmas story. Unfortunately it wasn’t for me. I was hoping for a little more romance (not sure why I expected that with the cover and blurb). This was more just a story of two friends who switch places because they think the grass is greener on the other side and they both grow and learn things about themselves. There is a tiny romance but I just felt bored the entire time. I also listened to the book and did not like the narrator so maybe the book would be better if I had just read it. I did love the epilogue though, it was a good ending. If you’re looking for a non romance Christmas story then I definitely recommend checking this one out.

This book was simply amazing! Peter and Hank trading places is something that a lot of us wish we could do in the real world. It is a sweet, tender Christmas story that really boosted my spirits. I was dealing with a family illness while I was reading this book, and it was just what I needed. Debbie Macomber is one of my go-to authors, and she never disappoints me. I will definitely be recommending this book to my reader friends!

Debbie Macomber did not disappoint! I throughly enjoyed this book! I look forward to reading more from her! This book is a true Christmas joy book! From them switching places and getting out of their comfort zone! I absolutely loved it! I would definitely recommend this book!

Debbie Macomber’s holiday stories always put me in a holiday mood. The Christmas Spirit delivered just that as we learn the story of the week, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax switched places for a week. A delightful tale that will warm your heart with two romances and goodwill.

This was a delightful tale. It begins with a grandmother and her two grandchildren settling in with some hot cocoa by the fire and demands for a story. I loved the questions, back-and-forth banter between the children and grandmother. She wants a kissing story, he an adventure…

The story shares the time best friends, Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax, switched places. It was the week before Christmas. The two meet for breakfast at the local diner, a tradition they have kept up since high school. Peter is the local pastor, and Hank owns a bar in the next town. Hank is groaning about his busy schedule and while Peter sympathizes, he has his own demanding schedule. Soon, each is claiming their lives are harder and busier. Before breakfast has ended, the two have agreed to switch places.

The tale has all the markings of a great Christmas tale with messages of goodwill towards men, character growth, and not one but two sides of romance. I laughed, cheered and lost myself in their stories. Filled with small-town charm, Christmas snow and one naughty donkey, it’s the perfect story to put you in the holiday spirit.

The delivery and moments with the grandchildren as they peppered their grandmother with question, only added to the tale. The discovery at the end, while expected, was delightful.

For fans of feel good, Hallmark holidays. It’s the perfect blend of heart-tugging sugary sweetness.

Debbie Macomber's holiday books are one of my favorites for the holiday season each year. The Christmas Spirit was no exception - ultimately I really enjoyed it, even though it was in a different "format" than usual given the storytelling narrative. I love these simple and heartfelt romances. This one didn't end up topping my list as a favorite, but was still super enjoyable and full of holiday warmth.

Debbie Macomber’s writing is like a warm cup of cocoa on a cold winter’s day. It’s cozy, feel-good, and sweet❤️

I have a tradition of reading Debbie Macomber’s latest Christmas release every year at Christmas time, and this year did not disappoint!🤩 Debbie is really fantastic at writing sweet romances that give you warm fuzzies and plenty of laughs🤣

I truly think this is the most unique novel that Debbie has written to date. The premise gripped me from the start—I mean a pastor and a bar tender trading places for a week at Christmas time? The possibilities were endless😂👏🏼 The biker gang had me shamelessly chuckling to myself while reading in public plenty of times😆

This novel included 2 parallel romance plots, both of which were super satisfying. I loved getting to see the second chance romance between Hank & Gracie, and the character develop within both of them was absolutely wonderful! Peter and Millie’s meet cute was also charming, and their strangers to lovers romance was truly heartwarming❤️

I can’t end this review without mentioning Lance and Lily (the grandkids of the narrator who is telling the story). The two children were wonderful additions to the story and I loved their unsolicited commentary throughout the book🤣

Lastly, I would like to say that Debbie interwove faith elements perfectly into the narrative such that they complemented the story and reminded readers of the true meaning of Christmas❤️🙏🏻 I truly appreciated the wisdom encapsulated within this story, and it’s one of the reasons I’ve always loved Debbie’s writing😍

If you’re in the mood for a sweet, charming, heart-warming Christmas romance, you should definitely check this one out!🥳

BOOK REVIEW: The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber
2022 Publication Date: October 18

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

T.I.M.E. Best Books By Genre | Contemporary Romance (Best Christmas Romance Books)
T.I.M.E. Most Anticipated Books Of 2022

CONNECT WITH A BOOK | T.I.M.E. SIMPLE LIVING TIP
When you protect yourself from disappointment... You are also protecting yourself from success...

T.I.M.E. BOOK REVIEW:
An Inspiring Holiday Season Tale
Wrap yourself up in a warm blanket, grab a cup of hot cocoa, and get lost in The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber... Best Christmas Romance Books

It’s the most wonderful time of the year, and New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber has written the perfect holiday season book to get you into the holiday spirit! The Christmas Spirit follows lifelong friends Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax as they switch jobs for a week before Christmas and end up finding a few "surprises" along the way.

This delightful novel celebrates the true meaning of the holidays and will have you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.

A Must-Read Book for the Holidays
The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber is a must-read book for anyone who loves the feel-good spirit of the holidays. When Peter Armstrong and Hank Colfax trade places the week before Christmas, they learn about each other's lives and gain insight into their own.

Throughout the book, Macomber celebrates the true meaning of the holidays and reminds us that while we may be different, we can all come together to celebrate what’s important — friendship, love, and community spirit.

"We’re all connected somehow..." is a theme that is explored throughout this delightful book.

Throughout this heartwarming tale, readers will be reminded of what is truly important in life — friendship, family, and kindness.

The Characters in The Christmas Spirit
The characters in this story are unforgettable. Peter Armstrong is a pastor living in the small town of Bridgeport, and Hank Colfax is a bartender of his own local family-owned tavern nearby in Kettle Springs. Through their switch, they realize how similar their lives are and gain insight into each other’s experiences.

As Peter and Hank embark on this challenge, they find themselves in humorous yet relatable scenarios that will make readers laugh out loud as well as tear up with emotion.

Not only does this story explore themes of friendship but also touches upon themes such as faith and romance.

Debbie Macomber's Writing Style
Debbie Macomber is a master at creating stories that capture readers’ hearts from start to finish. With her signature style of storytelling, she skillfully weaves together various elements to create an entertaining read that will leave you wanting more!

Her vivid descriptions make every scene come alive while her characters draw us in with their honest emotions.

This delightful story captures the true meaning of the holidays through its charming characters, heartfelt moments, humor, romance, and inspiring messages about friendship. Whether you plan on reading it by a cozy fire or adding it to your summer beach bag — one thing is for sure — you won’t be disappointed!

➾ T.I.M.E. Tip: Don't overlook a charming Christmas romance for your summer reading list. Yes, you read that right!... Best Christmas romance books are the perfect solution to escaping a summer heat wave... ✨😎✨

Why You Should Read The Christmas Spirit
This book has everything you need for any fan of holiday stories. It’s got humor, romance, and plenty of heartwarming moments that will keep you engaged throughout its pages. With vivid characters and a strong sense of place that is so relatable, you’ll get lost in this world as soon as you start reading it.

This New York Times Bestseller has everything readers need for an enjoyable cozy night in — complex characters, beautiful settings, and plenty of Christmas holiday spirit!

Whether you read it alone or with friends, a book club, or family... or all of them, The Christmas Spirit will bring out your festive side via holiday cheer.

So pick up your copy today and have yourself some festive fun... And have yourself a merry little read with Debbie Macomber’s latest novel The Christmas Spirit!...✨😎✨

Pages: 220
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Sub-Genre: Best Christmas Romance Books
Time Period: 1977 | Present Day
Location: US
Publisher: Random House Publishing Group | Ballantine Books

IF YOU LIKE THIS BOOK THEN TRY…
Book: The Holiday Swap by Maggie Knox ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Movie: The Holiday ⭐️⭐️⭐️

BOOK SYNOPSIS
A one-upmanship moment of Annie Oakley's "anything you can do, I can do better" leads to two lifelong friends deciding to switch jobs until Christmas Eve...

In The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber, Peter, the local pastor, scoffs that Hank, a bartender of his own family-owned tavern, has it easy compared to him.

One “I dare you” later… And they have challenged each other — and agreed — to step into each other’s shoes until Christmas Eve.

To their surprise, they realize how similar their lives are and gain insight into each other's experiences.

If you're looking for a feel-good holiday read from Best Christmas Romance Books this season, then The Christmas Spirit should definitely be on your list!

BOOK CLUB DISCUSSION:
• Friendship and community are integral to our happiness and wellbeing.
• We must strive to understand each other's perspectives in order to create a more inclusive world for everyone
• We must be willing to put ourselves out of our comfort zone in order to grow and learn beyond our assumptions.

BOOK QUOTE:
"Sometimes when someone is disappointed in life, they protect themselves so no one else can ever hurt them again." — The Christmas Spirit by Debbie Macomber

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All my book reviews can be seen at This Is My Everybody | Simple Living | Denise Wilbanks at thisismyeverybody.com/blog/what-book-should-i-read

♡ Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC. I voluntarily chose to review it and the opinions contained within are my own.

This was a really cute Christmas romance. I loved the story within the story that the grandmother was tekling her grandkids and all of their cute reactions to it.

I was so intrigued by this premise! A pastor and a bartender switch places in the week leading up to Christmas and they both find love along the way? Yes! I couldn’t wait to read it!
But unfortunately the writing and the plot were way too simplistic. The characters were all very generic and the romances were both underdeveloped. I can see why a lot of people love Debbie Macomber - it was definitely an easy breezy Christmas read but her writing style doesn’t seem to work for me.

Thank you to Netgalley for the free eARC in exchange for an honest review.