Christmas Cancellation

Book Review: Christmas Cancellation by Evie James

Evie James’s Christmas Cancellation is a modern holiday romance with a heartfelt twist on the classic It’s a Wonderful Life. Set against a backdrop of snowy delays, charming small-town holiday scenes, and unexpected encounters, the novel follows Noelle Nichols, who’s facing more than her share of challenges. Jobless, freshly single, and racing against the clock to claim her inheritance by Christmas Eve, Noelle’s holiday hopes are dashed when a snowstorm grounds her flight out of New York. Stuck in the chaos of LaGuardia, she unleashes her frustration on Captain Kol Vinter, a stoic, ex-military pilot whose brusque exterior conceals a much softer side.

Kol, who is initially less than pleased with Noelle’s fiery attitude, becomes intrigued when he witnesses her moments of vulnerability. When Noelle, overwhelmed by her circumstances, lets slip a wish that she’d never been born, Kol offers to drive her to her hometown of Saratoga Springs, a Christmas haven that has lost its magic for her. The ensuing road trip, filled with holiday mishaps, forced proximity, and undeniable chemistry, becomes the catalyst for both of them to rediscover not just the magic of Christmas, but a spark that seems to light up the holiday season in new and unexpected ways.

The "grumpy-sunshine" dynamic between Kol and Noelle adds depth and warmth to their interactions. Noelle’s spirited, resilient nature brings out a softer side in Kol, whose tough exterior is matched only by his fiercely protective nature. The "one bed" trope leads to hilarious and heartwarming moments as they awkwardly navigate their growing attraction in close quarters. Kol’s gradual shift from detached pilot to attentive companion, who helps Noelle see her worth and reframe her pain, feels natural and tender. Ashenden balances this developing romance with humor and touching scenes that keep the tone both light and heartfelt.

The book’s small-town setting of Saratoga Springs feels alive with holiday cheer and festive details, from snowball fights to cozy fireplaces, which contribute to Noelle’s emotional journey as she returns home. As she reconnects with her past and wrestles with old memories, she begins to heal and find joy in the season again. Meanwhile, Kol’s own reluctance to believe in Christmas magic, tempered by a difficult past, adds complexity to his character, making him more than just a holiday romance hero. His gradual acceptance of love and belonging brings out the story’s central themes of second chances and redemption.

In Christmas Cancellation, James combines classic holiday romance tropes with a modern, fresh twist, creating a story that balances emotional depth with lighthearted moments. Fans of forced-proximity, enemies-to-lovers, and opposites-attract romances will find plenty to enjoy in Noelle and Kol’s story. This novel is perfect for anyone looking for a feel-good holiday read that emphasizes healing, self-discovery, and the joy of unexpected love.

With its blend of holiday charm, sizzling chemistry, and tender moments, Christmas Cancellation is a cozy and heartwarming romance that captures the magic of second chances in both life and love. Evie James has crafted a delightful, festive tale that will leave readers laughing, crying, and rooting for Noelle and Kol to find their happily-ever-after. This book is ideal for curling up by the fire with a hot cocoa—guaranteed to leave readers believing in the magic of the season.

This book was so good. I read it in one sitting and it's crazy that the book takes place Uber just a few days time. Kol ( pronounced coal) and Noelle (see the Christmas theme already) meet when her flight out of New York City to Albany New York gets canceled.-- noel needs to get to Saratoga in order to sign some legal papers by the end of the day deadline, Unbeknownst to Noelle well, she's on the phone venting, to her bestie. Kol who was the pilot of the cancel flight over hears her misconceptions about why the flight was cancelled and kind of tells her off when she's done talking to her friend.They have some verbal sparring as Paul is walking away, he in a moment of weakness feels bad and invites her to drive with him home. He lives not far from saratoga and can bring her to the lawyer, she agrees and off they go in in the bright red bronco (keeping the Christmas theme) while they battle the winter storm to try to make it to saratoga by the deadline during the drive, they get to know each other better. While still keeping their secrets at bay, both having a hard time with the holiday- the storm gets worse and worse, and they end up spending christmas together
This book is a lot of things. A little bit spicy a little bit cheesy, but all heart i admit to breaking down in tears once-- the author ties the book very well together at the end and I enjoyed it very much. The book is told with perspective of both Kol and Noelle which I enjoyed- i also loved the easter egg of the decoration at the beginning of each chapter this was a heartwarming Christmas tale

Great book. The plot and characters were realistic. I couldn’t put the book down. It was paced to make the book just the right length.

**Book Review: *Christmas Cancellation* by Evie James – 4 Stars**

*Christmas Cancellation* by Evie James is a heartwarming holiday romance that blends cozy Christmas vibes with deeper emotional moments. When Noelle and Kol meet after a canceled flight, they’re forced to spend the holidays together in a small town, and what starts as forced proximity quickly turns into an unexpected romance. The opposites attract dynamic between the two is engaging—Kol is the supportive, understanding presence Noelle needs to heal from her past, and their chemistry is undeniable.

While their relationship progresses quickly (thanks to a bit of insta-love), their connection feels real, especially as Kol helps Noelle work through her grief. The book delivers a satisfying HEA and offers a perfect balance of lighthearted fun and emotional depth. The spice was also excellent.

One of the highlights of this book is the witty banter between Kol and Noelle. Their playful exchanges bring a lot of charm to the story, adding humor and warmth to their budding relationship. It’s clear they enjoy each other’s company, and their quick wit helps balance the more emotional moments, making their connection feel all the more authentic.