Thank you NetGalley and Soho Press for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
This was a cute and fun romance. There were some things that I felt weren’t quite clicking, but I think it may be because I’m growing out of the YA genre. Also, the ending and resolution felt a little rushed, but overall I mostly enjoyed the book and its story.

I loved this book and fake dating tropes in YA books are the best for these reasons: the pop culture references, character building, verbal snark, and actions they go through to avoid dating/falling in love may be predictable but hilariously fun at times. Lately I have been feeling that the character and emotional development in YA books are hitting harder and are sometimes more fluidly written in these than Adult romances. Kudos to this author for a fun and cute read!

This was a cute little read. I loved both main characters and both of them deserved better in life. We always love a good country boy and horses right?
This had all the stuff you need for a cute holiday read: snowstorm, Christmas miracles, comfy cozy vibes, love story, etc.
I do agree with some others that the ending wasn’t my fav.

In "Only for the Holidays," Abiola Bello deftly weaves a charming tale of love, self-discovery, and the heartwarming spirit of the festive season. The novel introduces us to Tia Solanké, a quintessential city girl who finds herself reluctantly uprooted from her London life and thrust into the unfamiliar rural surroundings of Saiyan Hedge Farm. As she grapples with the emotional fallout of a recent breakup and her mother’s insistence on making the most of the holidays, we are treated to a humorous and relatable exploration of family dynamics and the struggle to find one’s place in the world during a season typically filled with joy. Tia’s initial disdain for the countryside is palpable and vividly portrayed through her misadventures—falling into horse manure and being chased by sheep serve to highlight her utter discomfort and disconnection from this new environment. This comedic setup not only captures the reader's attention but also sets the stage for Tia’s character growth. Her mission to stalk her ex-boyfriend and win him back reveals a familiar yearning for love and acceptance that many can relate to, even if her approach is somewhat misguided. On the other side of the narrative is Quincy Parker, the hardworking country boy whose family runs the farm and who is caught in his own web of complications. With the pressure of hosting the Winter Ball looming over him, Quincy’s own heartache adds depth to his character, making him more than just a charming love interest. The societal expectations on him to present a perfect facade, including fabricating a date for the ball, illustrate the often-burdensome nature of appearances in both relationships and life. The chemistry between Tia and Quincy builds as they strike an unexpected alliance; pretending to be a couple for their mutual benefit yields not only comedic situations but also genuine moments of connection. This clever plot twist serves as a commentary on the nature of relationships—how they can be born out of necessity but evolve into something far deeper. Bello expertly balances humor with emotional depth, allowing readers to root for Tia and Quincy as they navigate their fake relationship amidst the backdrop of a looming snowstorm that threatens to upend their plans. As the Winter Ball approaches, the stakes heighten, and the authenticity of their emotions comes into play. Will the snowstorm force them to truly assess their feelings, or will they cling to their charade in fear of vulnerability? "Only for the Holidays" invites readers to reflect on the complexities of love, the importance of facing one’s fears, and the magic that can arise from unexpected connections. In conclusion, Abiola Bello's "Only for the Holidays" is a delightful read that captures the essence of the holiday season while exploring themes of love, growth, and the beauty of embracing the unknown. With relatable characters, witty dialogue, and a refreshing take on holiday romance, this novel is sure to warm the hearts of readers looking for a charming escape during the festive season. Whether you’re a fan of romantic comedies or simply in need of a light-hearted story to enjoy by the fire, Tia and Quincy’s journey is one you won't want to miss.

Just as Tia's relationship with her boyfriend starts to crumble, she is pulled away for a family holiday to a Black-owned farm. Quincy's family is hosting the winter ball for the first time and want everything to be perfect for the annual event. Although the two don't get along, they might be able to work together and get what both of them need.

Another great book by Abiola Bello! I look forward to reading more from this author.

A very cute YA read. Easy and Simple to but a little on the nose with the "Drama"

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Festive, romantic, and funny. A good rom-com that made me smile and root for the characters
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

City girl Tia's mom decides to take her and her sisters to the countryside for a 2 week holiday right at Christmas-time. This puts a damper on Tia's birthday plans for her boyfriend Mike, but right before she leaves, Mike tells her that he wants to take a break. And poor Tia doesn't understand that this is guy code for "we are breaking up".

Out in the countryside, Tia meets Quincy, whose parents own the fancy resort they're staying at, Not only is Quincy easy on the eyes. but he has also gone through a bad breakup. And he needs a date to the Winter Ball that his parents are hosting. He and Tia decide to go together in order to make Quincy's ex jealous. But then the sparks start flying.

A cute (and very tame) rom-com. for teens.

Only for the Holidays is such a fun & festive, holiday YA book. I will definitely revisit this closer to the holidays.

Thank you NetGalley, Soho Press, & Soho Teen for the ARC copy of this book.