Christmas Eve

by Emma Smith

A festive tale of first love and loss, set in the beautiful city of York.

It's Christmas, but Eve has never felt less festive...

Sixteen, single and ever-so-ordinary, Eve feels like life is passing her by. Her dad left years ago, and best friend Elly is spending all of her time with her brand-new boyfriend. The only person Eve has left is her nanny, now in a home.

But when childhood crush Toby asks if she'd like to host a speed dating event for the elderly at Mistletoe Square, it seems like the perfect proposition. It's what Nanny wants most, and offers Eve the perfect distraction from her dismal life. The last thing she's expecting this Christmas is to fall in love...

Both with herself, and with Christmas.

A Christmassy novella about finding yourself and learning to open up to love, tackling grief and growing up.

Genres: Romance, Young Adult, Christmas

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 22, 2024

About the author

Emma 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.

Reviews

[Emma Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're looking for a happy, cutesy love story, this may not be the one for you... but if you're open to one of friendship, intergenerational relationships, and self-discovery, you're in the right place. Eve's story breaks my heart, but it has a happy ending... and hopefully it'll teach you that things always work out in the end.

[Emm · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect, cozy Christmas novella! Eve's story is both heartbreaking and heartwarming, and it brought me close to tears more times than I was expecting (in the best way). I am always a sucker for Emma's descriptions, and she built such a magical, festive winter atmosphere, it's impossible not to fall in love with the world she creates. And Toby was an absolutely wonderful character, I adored him from start to finish. 💓

[Keelin · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was just so perfectly Christmassy 🥹 i read this between Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, and it was a perfect Christmas read, and managed to pull me out of the reading slump I’ve been in for a month! The descriptions were absolutely gorgeous, I think it has my favourite atmosphere and descriptions from Emma’s writing! It was so sweet, and I wish the Wriggly Whisper was a real place because those hot chocolates sounded HEAVENLY. The characters felt so real, with realistic relationships that aren’t always perfect and wholly positive. My heart goes out to poor Eve and Toby, they’ve both been through so much < / 3

Reading Emma’s books on Christmas Eve has become a sort of tradition now, and I’m loving it! Can’t wait to see what the New Year brings for the ELU 🫶

[Eilidh Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I knew as soon as Emma announced this book that I needed to try and read it this festive season. From what I heard her say I knew that I would love it and didn’t want to have to wait a year to read it even if that meant rejigging my festive TBR.

Christmas Eve follows Emma Smith follows Eve who feels like everyone is leaving her behind in life until Toby, her childhood crush, asks if she would like to be involved in a speed dating event for the elderly at Mistletoe Square, the home her Nanny lives at, offering her the ideal thing to set her mind to.

I knew from page 1 that I was going to have a great time with this book. I was invested in Eve as a character and really was just enjoying the story.

Eve was a character I felt that I could really understand. I could understand who she was and why she felt the way that she did with how everyone was acting. I really wanted the best possible outcome for her and for things overall to just feel that bit better.

I would have liked to get to know Toby a bit better I do think however with the length of the book the level of detail does make sense. Toby was a character who really interested me and someone who felt like a real boy you could come across at a British high school. This is something in 2024 I really found within Emma’s books she is really good at creating characters who feel really real and true to the setting of the book, I always feel like I could come across someone like them in the environment in real life and I feel like the genre Emma normally writes that this is a real positive.

This was a romance I supported and was interested in from early on. I could see how well Eve and Toby worked together and while I did want them to get together I also feel the development of their romance was right for them.

Something really heartwarming about this book was that it wasn’t just really about Eve’s romance, we instead followed three different generations of women and their romances. Whether they are smooth running, have a hiccup or two, or not work out, it was really special to read about all three at once and loved it.

This book was also the perfect amount of Christmassy and festive feels which just added to my love and is something I’m always looking for in books aiming to be Christmassy.

This book has just proved to me that Emma is an author who I need to read more from and has a decent chance of becoming a favourite. It is a Christmaasy novella that I loved and would highly recommend checking out ahead of next December.

[Cara Duffy · Rating 5 out of 5]

i loved this book so much!!! i think every aspect of it was really well done, creating a relatable, realistic character who easily wins your heart. we see eve go through struggles in romance, family and friendships, and embark on this journey on self-love and self-discovery. i think it’s a beautiful tale because it doesn’t just focus on romantic love, it’s a story about finding yourself, and the importance of friends and family. the festive speed-dating was really fun, i loved seeing the relationships forming amongst the oldies, and the christmas vibes were immaculate, even though i read it in march 🙈🙈 it has a beautiful message about change, and this book absolutely ticked all the boxes it intended to and more!

[Faith Fawcett · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual, Emma has done a brilliant job at combining a beautifully cosy (and realistic setting) with the most perfectly complex characters. Each person was so well-thought out and the overall dynamics between their story lines worked so well.

I especially loved Eve's nanny - and her connection with Michael hehe -and just thought she was so sweet and lovely! She was definitely my favourite character.

But I think my favourite aspect is how there was this idea throughout that people might not be perfect but that doesn't mean they are a bad person. It showed a lot of mature understanding and I loved how honest she was with that.

This is the perfect Christmas read (along with Tinsel Tears by Emma too) and I think this would be perfectly read by a fire on Christmas Eve, all cosy in a blanket! <33

[Will Chatterton · Rating 5 out of 5]

For a very obviously Christmas-themed book (you won't have needed this review to have worked that part out, I'm sure), I'm a touch late with this review, but nevertheless... Emma's second festive foray is in my personal opinion her best one (so far, anyway). Perhaps it's more immersive to me personally as somebody very familiar with York, but even if you know genuinely nothing about it, you will find Christmas Eve an ideal emulator through with to vicariously experience this fair city. It is a perfect setting for a tale that navigates the complex feelings and experiences that come from having in one's life so many people to hold dear - old and new - especially around Christmastime.

[Lydia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm not even sure where to start with this review because I loved this so much!! Firstly thank you Emma for the ARC 🥰

I think one of the things I loved about this book was that it wasn't your typical cheesy Christmas romance (which I do love) but is a bit more gritty. The book still felt festive and magical and heartwarming but doesn't shy away from harder topics such as loneliness (especially in older people), grief and fear of abandonment.

I love Christmas but it's not easy for everyone and I think this novella finds that perfect balance.

I loved that the plot focused on loneliness of older people and creating a festive speed dating event. It was such a fun story and ultimately showed how you can have new beginnings and relationships (platonic and romantic) no matter what age you are ❤️

Loved Eve's friend group dynamics and the turbulence in that and also with Toby.

To top it all, set in gorgeous York at Christmas. This is honestly the ideal read for the festive period that takes you on a bit of an emotional roller coaster and keeps you hooked throughout!

More Christmas books like this please!!

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was book 2 in my Christmas tbr list and I'm so glad it was! I was thinking it would be a light and fluffy Christmas romance, and not that I would resonate so deeply with the main character, Eve. I remember being Eve's age and feeling similar about Christmas and traditions, albeit for different reasons...
When her mum drops the bombshell of wanting to move to Spain I was ready to throw hands. All I could think was "why not at least wait until Eve goes to uni or at the very least finishes her A-levels..."
I will definitely be recommending this book to my students!

[Morgan Embleton · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVED this book! So relatable and funny and made me laugh and cry at the same time

[alyn · Rating 5 out of 5]

the most adorable christmas story I’ve ever read. it was young and sweet and reminded me of the coziest british winters. the imagery and descriptive language sold this one for me, everything was written with so much detail, i felt connected to the setting. I was seeing this twinkling Christmas market, bustling with tourists and warm, steaming food. The plot line was interesting and unique. Eve embodies the basic teenage girl and represents what many young girls feel during their late teenage years. Toby, my caring book boyfriend, you really did your job well! The ending felt slightly rushed and I would have preferred if it was expanded upon, but other than that I’d highly recommend it! whether you buy it for your friend as a Christmas gift, read it on your kindle on Boxing Day or cherish the paperback on your shelves, it’s worth it! and this cover??? the pink???💕🎀

[Alexa Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Smith is an author of many talents! While I am absolutely enthralled by her mysteries, this festive romance was stunning. A story of friendship, holiday letdowns, and navigating a life long crush. It’s the perfect December read and I couldn’t recommend it more. I wholeheartedly ADORED this novella! 🩷🎄

[izzy :) · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is such an adorable little Christmassy book. And even better, it’s by an independent author who did all the writing, publishing etc by herself so… YIPPEE to supporting small businesses.

In terms of the actual book itself though, I really liked it. Even though it was really sad at points, Christmas Eve genuinely felt like a warm hug telling you it will all be ok, no matter how messy your home life is this Christmas.

The book tells the story of a 16 year old girl, Eve, who after a series of family deaths, divorces and separations, as well as some friendship issues, isn’t having the best time. So, when she starts volunteering at her local old people’s home (where her granny is also staying), she finds love in other places including a boy.

Overall, the plot of the story felt so real and raw and it really felt like you could capture Eve, and the rest of her family’s emotions, right through the page. Each of the characters had great development and you really got to know who they were right the way through.

The one thing I wasn’t really a fan of was the ending? It felt kinda rushed and like the author just wanted to add a cliffhanger, but I feel like because that specific plot point (I’m not giving spoilers), was wrapped up so quickly, it ended up feeling a bit… meh.

Overall though, this book is absolutely gorgeously written with Christmas magic seeping through each page, and a wonderfully quirky group of characters who make everything work so well together. I’m excited to read more of Emma’s books. :)

[Paris-Jeanette · Rating 4 out of 5]

christmas eve by emma smith - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5

this novella is such a heartbreakingly bittersweet christmas story. i finished it in tears. emma did such a great job job at capturing the cozy vibes of the winter season and the challenges that love brings—not just romantic love. while protagonist eve has fallen hard for childhood crush toby, we also watch her navigate her platonic and familial relationships with her friends, mother, and grandmother.

the only thing that made me feel frustrated is how some of the characters were portrayed. although no one is perfect in real life, certain characters were just downright unlikable to the point where it was almost just unrealistic how cruel they were being to eve. poor eve herself was made out to be a victim of circumstances caused by all the selfish people around her, which at times was hard to read. however, due to its length, it is understandable how there was very little room to give some of the minor characters more nuance.

this is my first emma smith book and i am looking forward to checking out more of her works! absolutely would recommend this one.

[Scarlett°~☆ · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is such a wholesome and chill Christmas read, perfect for the season! Emma's writing, as always, is beautifully done, with warmth and depth. The story of Eve, navigating the challenges of growing up, loss, and loneliness, is touching and relatable. Set in the charming city of York, it captures the essence of Christmas without being overly festive, which adds a refreshing touch. I loved how the book explores not only first love but also self-discovery and the importance of opening up to others. While I would have loved a bit more depth in the romantic arc, this novella is a heartwarming, well-written journey of healing and finding joy. A lovely addition to Emma’s collection of books! 5 stars, would recommend!!

[Cara · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is perfection omg,
it felt like i had known the characters for years even when it was only 213 pages long i felt like i knew everything about Eve and could see everything exactly from her perspective. 🫶🏻
This book had me squealing, tearing up and laughing, it is perfectly written and has the perfect cozy festive feel while sometimes feeling cold perfectly describing the sudden loneliness Eve is feeling, I wish i could read about Toby and Eves love story for ever and see where they end up, it’s so beautiful. 💓💓💓

(Also nothing felt more perfect than finishing this in bed on christmas eve with my christmas pjs on and electric blanket blaring it was the perfect christmas eve evening 🎄)

[Mills · Rating 5 out of 5]

this was so sweet omg. Toby and Eve are adorable and every time Eve said something it felt like my own internal thoughts. i adored this book

[Laura · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cosy holidays read!
I loved following those characters and l loved the idea of speed dating to bring older people together! It was nice seeing them having crushes on each other, almost like teenagers, because it's not something we often see

[Day Ravenstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

Emma Smith books always make me feel all the feelings and this one was no different. I was laughing and crying along with Eve and Toby. This book was so addictive, I kept reaching for it in a way that I haven’t done with a book in a while. I need a sequel of them sorting themselves out with their grandparents scheming in the background. I doubt Nanny is going to let Toby off that easily.

I got this when it was free on Christmas Eve and have since bought a physical copy which I am eagerly awaiting. A cover that gorgeous needs to be on my shelf.

[Anna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my god. This is what I've been needing. Just a love story between two awkward teenagers. It's so relatable. Love, love, love it. I neeeeeed more Eve and Toby though, I love them so much!!! If Emma writes a 2025 Christmas novella, please let it be Eve and Toby in uni or something! I'm not ready to let them go.

[Black Flamed Candle Books &#x1f56f;️&#x1f4da; · Rating 5 out of 5]

I rate this 4.5 stars. 🌟

[Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐

[roooo · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars
I'm so grateful to have found this book because somehow, it managed to capture perfectly the soft, cosy, christmassy atmosphere in the beautiful city of York.

Going into this, I didn't really know what to expect - this is the first book by Emma Smith that I've read and certainly not the last. The book follows our main character, Eve Mclelland, and how she navigates the challenges of her life during the christmas period, how she feels everyone around her is racing ahead, and how extremely realistic it is to feel this way, especially when we're young.

Whilst organising a speed-dating event for the elderly, Eve meets Toby, her life-long crush. Although there is a subplot of romance, I like to think that is isn't the main premise of the book at all, and that really, if you're reading simply for romance, this isn't for you. In all honesty, I think the romance was the only thing I wasn’t quite sure about.

However, if you choose to avoid this book only for this reason, you're undoubtedly missing out. I really enjoyed the writing style and how much I felt Eve's internal monologue fit with that of a teenage girl just trying to figure out her own life. Most of the characters were also really fun. I also felt like I learnt a lot about growth after I read this book and what it takes to understand and empathise more with the situations of others.

To put it shortly, go give this book a try. It's worth it. I've already bought Dead Fine and Martha, and I can't wait to read them both!!

[sana · Rating 5 out of 5]

while on the surface christmas eve seems like a classic wholesome christmas romance, it’s so much more than that. eve as a character is so special and the journey she goes on throughout the book as she deals with all the change in her life is so realistic and well written. each character has so much depth and the story is so special, dealing with giving love a second chance and learning how to deal with change in a healthy way. toby and eve were so lovely together and their relationship had me smiling so much.

also, the cover is gorgeous so what more could you want <3

[Cheryl Gent · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5⭐️ || This was a fun and quick read! The perfect Christmas novella. Although it took me a while to get through, that was mainly because it was on my Kindle and not a physical book!

Emma did a great job at creating the atmosphere at Mistletoe Square, and I loved being put there! The whole Christmas event was amazing, and it was great to read how everyone had a clear role in the story.

Eve’s story is great, and it shows how both heartbreaking and heartwarming things can happen around the same time. I enjoyed reading her discover so much about her family and herself!

[jessica ౨ৎ · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.25⭐️

i honestly don’t know what to say about this.. on one hand i did enjoy this book while i was reading it, i thought it was so sweet and i LOVED the concept. on the other hand i found the ending extremely underwhelming, not even just with the romance but the conclusion with eve’s family as well. i was a bit confused when i went to the next page and saw acknowledgments instead of the next chapter, i just feel that things could have been wrapped up in a more satisfying way

[Elizabeth Templer · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 🎄 sweet and festive

[Lilia Tarver · Rating 5 out of 5]

very cute and christmasy !! gave the vibes i need i love !

[Jessica Delia · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love this book. I cannot recommend it enough. It broke me and then made me whole again.

Emma never fails to impress me. READ IT NOW. THE PERFECT CHRISTMASSY BOOK!!!!