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Tinsel Tears
A festive tale of true love and heartbreak, perfect for fans of Stephanie Perkins and John Green.
It's Christmas in the North Pole...
Abraham Cane has been in the closet ever since his disastrous "coming out" attempt, seven Christmases ago. But when he meets Patrick, every hang-up about his sexuality goes out of the window. He never thought he’d fall in love this Christmas - and he never thought he’d get his heart broken, either.
Thirty years later, the world has changed... and so have Abe and Patrick. When Abe receives some devastating news, he starts to question everything, and wonder if he could have done things differently...
But is it too late to fix his past mistakes?
A fantastical Christmas tale about falling in love and figuring out who you are, tackling prejudice, sexuality, and the power of friendship. Suitable for ages 13 and above.
It's Christmas in the North Pole...
Abraham Cane has been in the closet ever since his disastrous "coming out" attempt, seven Christmases ago. But when he meets Patrick, every hang-up about his sexuality goes out of the window. He never thought he’d fall in love this Christmas - and he never thought he’d get his heart broken, either.
Thirty years later, the world has changed... and so have Abe and Patrick. When Abe receives some devastating news, he starts to question everything, and wonder if he could have done things differently...
But is it too late to fix his past mistakes?
A fantastical Christmas tale about falling in love and figuring out who you are, tackling prejudice, sexuality, and the power of friendship. Suitable for ages 13 and above.
- GenresChristmasYoung Adult
256 pages, Paperback
First published December 8, 2023
6 people are currently reading
253 people want to read
About the author
Emma Smith
14 books565 followersEmma Smith is a young adult and children's author from Yorkshire. She wrote and illustrated her first “book” when she was seven years old and hasn’t stopped writing since. When she’s not walking on the beach or drinking an iced coffee with a crumpet and some chocolate, you’ll probably find her reading something dark and mysterious… and most certainly YA.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
December 24, 2023
Tinsel Tears, as you could probably tell, goes in a very different direction from Emma's four previous books. The world (or the North Pole, I should say) is very skilfully described to properly immerse the reader in all its whimsy and charm - but the storyline certainly isn't all happy. Abe has to go through a lot of white lies and heart-wringing pain to get even close to what he wants in life, and it by no means comes quickly, either.
December 24, 2023
I feel like I say this in every review of her books, but Emma Smith just never misses!! Sat down and read this in one two hour sitting on Christmas Eve Eve, and now here I am SOBBING at 11:50pm LOL
Just wow- I was pretty much consistently tearing up from Part 2 onwards (yes I’m quite sensitive LMAO), the book is just so well written, and has perfect christmassy vibes!
The characters were so well written, and I fully felt attached to Patrick and especially Abe by the end < / 3
“It's hugging your grandparents and kissing them on the cheek” - this hit HARD, that whole page I will probably say is my favourite quote(s) in the book for sure!
Another must read from Emma, each book keeps getting better, and I’m so proud of her 🫶
Just wow- I was pretty much consistently tearing up from Part 2 onwards (yes I’m quite sensitive LMAO), the book is just so well written, and has perfect christmassy vibes!
The characters were so well written, and I fully felt attached to Patrick and especially Abe by the end < / 3
“It's hugging your grandparents and kissing them on the cheek” - this hit HARD, that whole page I will probably say is my favourite quote(s) in the book for sure!
Another must read from Emma, each book keeps getting better, and I’m so proud of her 🫶
December 25, 2023
This book was so sweet and so sad at the same time goddamn you Emma i wasn’t planning on crying rn 😭 did find it cringey at first (oh my baubles??) but it makes me laugh now lmao
December 23, 2023
Tinsel tears is the perfect cosy, festive read. This book is different from any other of Emma's books, but the writing and story is perfect, making me fall in love with the characters, setting, writing and everything! I loved this book so much, the perfect Christmas read, full of Xmas magic, hope, love and happiness that fills you with comfort and warmth. Another perfect read by Emma Smith!!
December 24, 2023
this book is cosy and wholesome and so so lovely. literally the perfect christmas read. it also made me desperate for a hot chocolate even though i can’t stand the stuff <3
January 22, 2024
Author: Emma Smith
Star rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 1,5 🌶️
⟡
Summary:
Abraham Cane seems like the perfect elf. His parents run a successful shoe repair business, he lives in one of the richest neighbourhoods in the North Pole, and he always has his supportive best friend Lottie by his side. But there is one big 'problem': Abe is gay.
A few Christmases ago, Abe tried to come out to his parents, but they were shocked and did not accept his sexuality. Since that day, Abe has kept his feelings to himself. He has never dated or fallen in love.
This changes the moment Abe meets Patrick. Abe can't hold back his feelings anymore and falls head over heels in love. And so does Patrick! His parents, however, are less happy. If Abe and Patrick will really fall in love, that will mean that Abe will never have children, which in turn means that after Abe there won't be anyone to take over the family's successful business. So, Abe's parents force him to choose between the two things he wants most: Patrick and his father's business.
⟡
My opinion:
I expected Tinsel Tears to be just like any other ordinary Christmas romance; a cheesy story about two people who meet over the holidays and magically fall in love.
However, this novel was so much more, something I had never read before; it seemed real and realistic. It's a story that, apart from the fact that all the characters are elves, could happen to you or me or anyone else on the planet. The story was not only as sweet as candy canes, it was also heartbreaking and I found myself crying throughout the entire second half of the novel.
I must admit that at first the story felt a bit cringe and childish, just like any other story about elves who live at the North Pole and work for Santa Claus would be. However, Smith did such a wonderful job with the world building and the character development that after a few pages this feeling was completely gone and I was instead immersed in a Christmas atmosphere, which was certainly helped by the use of many festive similes and the cute characters.
On top of that, the elf language (‘Oh my baubles!’), the references to our modern-day world, the novel’s wise and educative lessons and the fact that this book crushed my soul, are also worth mentioning.
All in all, I’d highly recommend reading this novel as you'd have to be really hard-hearted not to fall under its magical spell.
⟡
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Star rating: 4.5 ⭐️
Spice: 1,5 🌶️
⟡
Summary:
Abraham Cane seems like the perfect elf. His parents run a successful shoe repair business, he lives in one of the richest neighbourhoods in the North Pole, and he always has his supportive best friend Lottie by his side. But there is one big 'problem': Abe is gay.
A few Christmases ago, Abe tried to come out to his parents, but they were shocked and did not accept his sexuality. Since that day, Abe has kept his feelings to himself. He has never dated or fallen in love.
This changes the moment Abe meets Patrick. Abe can't hold back his feelings anymore and falls head over heels in love. And so does Patrick! His parents, however, are less happy. If Abe and Patrick will really fall in love, that will mean that Abe will never have children, which in turn means that after Abe there won't be anyone to take over the family's successful business. So, Abe's parents force him to choose between the two things he wants most: Patrick and his father's business.
⟡
My opinion:
I expected Tinsel Tears to be just like any other ordinary Christmas romance; a cheesy story about two people who meet over the holidays and magically fall in love.
However, this novel was so much more, something I had never read before; it seemed real and realistic. It's a story that, apart from the fact that all the characters are elves, could happen to you or me or anyone else on the planet. The story was not only as sweet as candy canes, it was also heartbreaking and I found myself crying throughout the entire second half of the novel.
I must admit that at first the story felt a bit cringe and childish, just like any other story about elves who live at the North Pole and work for Santa Claus would be. However, Smith did such a wonderful job with the world building and the character development that after a few pages this feeling was completely gone and I was instead immersed in a Christmas atmosphere, which was certainly helped by the use of many festive similes and the cute characters.
On top of that, the elf language (‘Oh my baubles!’), the references to our modern-day world, the novel’s wise and educative lessons and the fact that this book crushed my soul, are also worth mentioning.
All in all, I’d highly recommend reading this novel as you'd have to be really hard-hearted not to fall under its magical spell.
⟡
Disclaimer: I received a free e-copy from the author in exchange for an honest review.
December 30, 2023
Wow this book hit me in my feels.
This book was a cozy Christmas book written about two elves trying to love each other in a world that is not so accepting, and fulfilling their own paths. I loved the pacing of the book, and the themes and topics explored in this book are touched on so appropriately.
Some of the language in this book felt a little odd, for example “oh my baubles”, “lots of love and sprinkles” “big ol sexy sex”. It definitely sounds like something elves would say, but it took me a while to get past it.
This book definitely has made me want to read more of Emma’s work, so excited to see her grow and develop as a writer!
This book was a cozy Christmas book written about two elves trying to love each other in a world that is not so accepting, and fulfilling their own paths. I loved the pacing of the book, and the themes and topics explored in this book are touched on so appropriately.
Some of the language in this book felt a little odd, for example “oh my baubles”, “lots of love and sprinkles” “big ol sexy sex”. It definitely sounds like something elves would say, but it took me a while to get past it.
This book definitely has made me want to read more of Emma’s work, so excited to see her grow and develop as a writer!
December 10, 2023
Wow. This book was quite different to any of Emma’s other ones, and I love a Christmassy book so when I learnt that this was releasing I needed to preorder asap! I had high expectations for this book (because of Emma’s other amazing books), and it met all of them and more, but in a very different way to what I was expecting! I loved both parts, but my heart definitely got broken in the middle of the book. I loved the ending, and I will definitely reread. Well done Emma for another great read :D
December 15, 2023
tis the season!
May 2, 2024
Emma will never miss when writing books.
May have spoilers !
The prologue took me by surprise; I hadn't anticipated experiencing the emotions depicted by Abe and his discontented family upon his coming out. The authenticity of the situation struck me—Abe's letter revealed him shedding any lingering emotions from the previous family encounter, laying himself bare. This portrayal captures the realistic aftermath of being ignored and unaccepted by one's own family.
To avoid any more spoilers I'd say that I love how Emma portrayed all relationship types especially with the contrast between the 2 main characters. The way Emma split this book into 2 parts was perfectly done and actually led me to finish this book within a couple of days. Would definitely recommend for those that enjoy LGBTQ+ relationships as this portrays the ups and downs and coming out in a way that is very realistic - and if you love this book I'd recommend you to look into her other books.
May have spoilers !
The prologue took me by surprise; I hadn't anticipated experiencing the emotions depicted by Abe and his discontented family upon his coming out. The authenticity of the situation struck me—Abe's letter revealed him shedding any lingering emotions from the previous family encounter, laying himself bare. This portrayal captures the realistic aftermath of being ignored and unaccepted by one's own family.
To avoid any more spoilers I'd say that I love how Emma portrayed all relationship types especially with the contrast between the 2 main characters. The way Emma split this book into 2 parts was perfectly done and actually led me to finish this book within a couple of days. Would definitely recommend for those that enjoy LGBTQ+ relationships as this portrays the ups and downs and coming out in a way that is very realistic - and if you love this book I'd recommend you to look into her other books.
August 2, 2025
I am not okay having read this. Andrew O’Hagan’s Mayflies but gay elves in the North Pole is not a book I knew I needed. However, I very much did need it.
I loved the reference to the other books that this author has written. The world building in this book was incredible. I loved how detailed it was without it feeling like the book exists to explain a concept.
I loved the reference to the other books that this author has written. The world building in this book was incredible. I loved how detailed it was without it feeling like the book exists to explain a concept.
June 24, 2025
4.25⭐️
April 23, 2024
Rating - 3 stars
Bookstagram - starcrxssedreader
Read - 27th December 2023
This book for me sits in around the same area as Dead Fine as a 'decent read' - a read that, in the moment, is heartwarming and maybe enjoyable, but afterwards it won't stick with you as a favourite read.
This is a very different novel for Smith, almost fantastical in its execution? The book follows elves in the North Pole which I absolutely was not expecting going into this, and I had to double back to reread the first chapter to realise that I was following a Christmas Elf! It was oddly heartwarming to realise that was the concept of the book, and it really put me in the holiday mood. The descriptions of candy cane hot chocolates and cafe's and tinsel are all amazing at putting the reader into the mindset of Christmas, and it is very good at setting up a warm, comforting environment.
My favourite thing about this book was the characters. I loved the main character Abe and his best friend, and his love interest Patrick was so sweet and lovable. I liked reading their interactions, especially Abe and his love interest. They were so wholesome, so sweet, and it was a pleasure to read.
What I didn't enjoy as much about this book was the plot. In the beginning, I liked where it was going. It was quite slice-of-life, living day to day with the characters, looking at Abe's struggle with coming out and what that meant for him and his life, his relationship with people around him etc., but when we got to the 'twist', the turning point of the book, that's where it lost me a bit. I really did not like the twist that happened in the book, and it almost didn't feel like something that the character would do? Even with pressure, I feel like something else could have happened. The romance up until this point in the book was lovely, and I was enjoying following it, but the twist is where I started to lose my love for it.
I'm also not a huge fan of time skips in books, and so with how lengthy the time skip in this book is, that lost me as well. Overall I wasn't a huge fan of how this novel ended, and rather than feeling emotional and upset, I was a bit put-down by the way that this book concluded. I think it can be summed up that I don't think we got enough time with the couple! Even if the twist had been later on in the novel, I'd have liked to have had more time with Patrick and Abe before what happened, happened.
Bookstagram - starcrxssedreader
Read - 27th December 2023
This book for me sits in around the same area as Dead Fine as a 'decent read' - a read that, in the moment, is heartwarming and maybe enjoyable, but afterwards it won't stick with you as a favourite read.
This is a very different novel for Smith, almost fantastical in its execution? The book follows elves in the North Pole which I absolutely was not expecting going into this, and I had to double back to reread the first chapter to realise that I was following a Christmas Elf! It was oddly heartwarming to realise that was the concept of the book, and it really put me in the holiday mood. The descriptions of candy cane hot chocolates and cafe's and tinsel are all amazing at putting the reader into the mindset of Christmas, and it is very good at setting up a warm, comforting environment.
My favourite thing about this book was the characters. I loved the main character Abe and his best friend, and his love interest Patrick was so sweet and lovable. I liked reading their interactions, especially Abe and his love interest. They were so wholesome, so sweet, and it was a pleasure to read.
What I didn't enjoy as much about this book was the plot. In the beginning, I liked where it was going. It was quite slice-of-life, living day to day with the characters, looking at Abe's struggle with coming out and what that meant for him and his life, his relationship with people around him etc., but when we got to the 'twist', the turning point of the book, that's where it lost me a bit. I really did not like the twist that happened in the book, and it almost didn't feel like something that the character would do? Even with pressure, I feel like something else could have happened. The romance up until this point in the book was lovely, and I was enjoying following it, but the twist is where I started to lose my love for it.
I'm also not a huge fan of time skips in books, and so with how lengthy the time skip in this book is, that lost me as well. Overall I wasn't a huge fan of how this novel ended, and rather than feeling emotional and upset, I was a bit put-down by the way that this book concluded. I think it can be summed up that I don't think we got enough time with the couple! Even if the twist had been later on in the novel, I'd have liked to have had more time with Patrick and Abe before what happened, happened.
January 2, 2025
Emma Smith is a UKYA author I have started reading in 2024 and have quickly discovered that I want to read more from and luckily for me she has a decent sized backlist for me to work my way through.
Tinsel Tears is the first book I picked up from Emma’s backlist with it being December and Tinsel Tears being a festive story set at the North Pole. It was also the first I’ve physically read which was a really positive experience. Tinsel Tears is set across two different periods of time, first off when Abe is 20, first meeting and falling in love with Patrick. And 30 years later after they have grown apart and Abe receives life changing news that makes him wonder if it’s too late to fix his mistakes.
I was invested in Abe and Patrick’s story from early on and really liked getting to see them across the two time periods. This story in many ways was both heartbreaking and heartwarming proving to me just how much Emma can do with her writing.
I loved both our two main characters and seeing the relationship between them develop but also there were many side characters playing a key role in the story and I found myself loving them too along with being invested in their own individual stories that we caught glimpses of again across the two time periods. It was great to see how both Abe and Patrick had lifelong friends supporting them through life in ways that you hope everyone gets a chance to experience in life.
It didn’t feel to me that by having two time periods we got less time to understand the relationship and characters. Instead I think that it worked to the advantage of the story, including how the book was split and the footnotes filling us in on the going ons over the past 30 years. The footnotes answered some of my key questions and I think I would have been lost without them. The way the book was split allowed us to get to know the characters, their relationship and the foundations of their past at 20 but what we got to know 30 years later gave the story the true heartbreaking element. I had tears in my eyes at the end of the book which to me is the sign of a good book.
I loved the subtle Vibbington reference that is only there if you are reading intently and know the ELU. This made me so excited to continue Emma’s backlist and truly had the festive feeling I wanted my books to have over Christmas.
Tinsel Tears is the first book I picked up from Emma’s backlist with it being December and Tinsel Tears being a festive story set at the North Pole. It was also the first I’ve physically read which was a really positive experience. Tinsel Tears is set across two different periods of time, first off when Abe is 20, first meeting and falling in love with Patrick. And 30 years later after they have grown apart and Abe receives life changing news that makes him wonder if it’s too late to fix his mistakes.
I was invested in Abe and Patrick’s story from early on and really liked getting to see them across the two time periods. This story in many ways was both heartbreaking and heartwarming proving to me just how much Emma can do with her writing.
I loved both our two main characters and seeing the relationship between them develop but also there were many side characters playing a key role in the story and I found myself loving them too along with being invested in their own individual stories that we caught glimpses of again across the two time periods. It was great to see how both Abe and Patrick had lifelong friends supporting them through life in ways that you hope everyone gets a chance to experience in life.
It didn’t feel to me that by having two time periods we got less time to understand the relationship and characters. Instead I think that it worked to the advantage of the story, including how the book was split and the footnotes filling us in on the going ons over the past 30 years. The footnotes answered some of my key questions and I think I would have been lost without them. The way the book was split allowed us to get to know the characters, their relationship and the foundations of their past at 20 but what we got to know 30 years later gave the story the true heartbreaking element. I had tears in my eyes at the end of the book which to me is the sign of a good book.
I loved the subtle Vibbington reference that is only there if you are reading intently and know the ELU. This made me so excited to continue Emma’s backlist and truly had the festive feeling I wanted my books to have over Christmas.
December 8, 2023
I don't know if I can claim the title of #1 Tinsel Tears fan but I'll fight for it! It's my favourite of Emma's works for an infinite number of reasons, from the heart-touching, vivid characters to the most gorgeous, magical world-building. I'm forever in love with this story, and Emma outdoes herself every time but this one will always hold the most special place in my heart.
December 23, 2024
This was such a cute, festive book that wasn’t cheesy at all (I feel like a lot of Christmas books are). The North Pole setting was so cute and unique. I cried multiple times🥲
January 19, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
Loved the way it ended 🥹
Loved the way it ended 🥹
April 19, 2024
I’m actually heartbroken that I finished it! I miss all the characters and settings already.
This was such a unique and inspiring book, from the topics Emma chose to present to the idea of setting it in the North Pole with elves! I’ve never read anything like this before and I hope we will get to see some of these characters again!
This was such a unique and inspiring book, from the topics Emma chose to present to the idea of setting it in the North Pole with elves! I’ve never read anything like this before and I hope we will get to see some of these characters again!
July 11, 2024
Wow! This book blew me away I loved the whole story, it was such a cute Christmas novella! It made me smile and cry, it was absolutely amazing well done Emma for writing an amazing novella for the Christmas season
December 24, 2024
OMG THIS BOOK WAS ADORABLE
April 2, 2025
Oh my gosh. This book was soo good and so sad. I SOBBED reading the epilogue. Oh my gosh.
Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews