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A Date with Santa
Win a free print copy of this book!
3 days and 14:21:58
50 copies available
U.S. only
Romance blooms when an unlikely couple plans to surprise a child in need of some Christmas magic in this sparkling holiday romance from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
For single career woman Sage Madison, Christmas means premade cookies and artificial trees. But when her sister needs her help, Sage volunteers to care for her five-year-old nephew, Ricky.
Determined to give Ricky a memorable Christmas, Sage enlists help from her assistant and close friend, Erica, who loves kids, and her colleague Ethan, who agrees to dress up as Santa—if Sage and Ricky join him in holiday fun to get in the spirit.
As Sage navigates the challenges of caring for her nephew and the prospect of romance with Ethan, she begins to discover the true magic of the season. Ethan’s bond with Ricky and his kindness toward Sage bring unexpected joy and new adventures—filled with ice skating, baking, and a sense of fulfillment she never expected.
But when her old life threatens to interfere with the festivities, Sage must decide what she truly wants before the season’s magic slips away.
For single career woman Sage Madison, Christmas means premade cookies and artificial trees. But when her sister needs her help, Sage volunteers to care for her five-year-old nephew, Ricky.
Determined to give Ricky a memorable Christmas, Sage enlists help from her assistant and close friend, Erica, who loves kids, and her colleague Ethan, who agrees to dress up as Santa—if Sage and Ricky join him in holiday fun to get in the spirit.
As Sage navigates the challenges of caring for her nephew and the prospect of romance with Ethan, she begins to discover the true magic of the season. Ethan’s bond with Ricky and his kindness toward Sage bring unexpected joy and new adventures—filled with ice skating, baking, and a sense of fulfillment she never expected.
But when her old life threatens to interfere with the festivities, Sage must decide what she truly wants before the season’s magic slips away.
256 pages, Hardcover
First published October 13, 2026
About the author
Debbie Macomber
916 books21.3k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
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October 15, 2026
Debbie Macomber delivers another heartwarming and inspiring Christmas story. 🎁
Put this one on your holiday reading list! 🧑🎄
Here's why you will love it, too:
🧑🎄Sage Madison is a bit of a Grinch at first. She has a job in advertising and is working for a major promotion. When sister Saffron gets deployed, nephew Ricky needs a place to stay. Sage is voluntold by her mother that this is the only option.
👼Little Ricky is so cute and wise beyond his years. At the age of five he has already been helping his mother with cooking and other daily tasks. When Sage flounders, Ricky has suggestions. At one point he gives her a lecture on why pop tarts are not a healthy breakfast choice.
🎁Sage may give Ricky a roof over his head, but he gives her so much more. She must rearrange her life to make room for a child and realizes what is important in life.
⛪With Ricky in her condo, Sage makes more of an effort to be involved in her church. Her weeks are better with that church habit back in place and Christmas is much more than gifts.
🧔Ethan Cornwell is a cute friend at work. He is competition for her promotion, but also offers to help out while Ricky is visiting. Could he be her Santa? And Ricky's too?
I like this one just as much as A Ferry Merry Christmas from last year. Debbie Macomber's latest books have more depth than they did in the past and I appreciate the change. They will be relevant for many years to come. Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Available on October 13, 2026.
Put this one on your holiday reading list! 🧑🎄
Here's why you will love it, too:
🧑🎄Sage Madison is a bit of a Grinch at first. She has a job in advertising and is working for a major promotion. When sister Saffron gets deployed, nephew Ricky needs a place to stay. Sage is voluntold by her mother that this is the only option.
👼Little Ricky is so cute and wise beyond his years. At the age of five he has already been helping his mother with cooking and other daily tasks. When Sage flounders, Ricky has suggestions. At one point he gives her a lecture on why pop tarts are not a healthy breakfast choice.
🎁Sage may give Ricky a roof over his head, but he gives her so much more. She must rearrange her life to make room for a child and realizes what is important in life.
⛪With Ricky in her condo, Sage makes more of an effort to be involved in her church. Her weeks are better with that church habit back in place and Christmas is much more than gifts.
🧔Ethan Cornwell is a cute friend at work. He is competition for her promotion, but also offers to help out while Ricky is visiting. Could he be her Santa? And Ricky's too?
I like this one just as much as A Ferry Merry Christmas from last year. Debbie Macomber's latest books have more depth than they did in the past and I appreciate the change. They will be relevant for many years to come. Thank you to Ballantine Books and NetGalley for a DRC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own. Available on October 13, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Date With Santa written by Debbie Macomber was emotional, beautiful, powerful, magical, heart warming, inspiring, festive, joyful, and heart breaking. Every Christmas season, I always get so excited to do my annual Christmas read by Debbie Macomber, I have read so many of them in past years, but A Date With Santa is my most favorite Christmas book Debbie has ever written, in my honest opinion it's her best one yet. Debbie never fails with her Christmas spirit and I beg to have this book turned into a Hallmark Christmas movie, but my favorite part of this whole book was the sisterly bond, it was truly so beautiful and heart warming. I had a smile on my face from the very first page all the way until the very last page. No matter what book I read by the wonderfully talented Debbie Macomber, I'm always left with a feel good feeling in my heart, but this particular book just warmed my heart on a personal level. It's not very often you come across a book that you will remember forever, but A Date With Santa is the type of book that I will hold dearly close to my heart. It's not everyday that a Christmas book can make me so emotional, but as someone who has a very close bond with my little sister, Debbie made me feel seen with our female main character, I related to her so much, and that's what I look for in my books- a connection to the characters, whether it's a happy feeling or a sad feeling. I can't recommend this book enough, I loved it with my whole heart, so everyone please do yourself the biggest favor and mark your calendars for October 13th, 2026 because this is the type of Christmas book that you won't want to miss out on. Grab yourself a warm drink, your favorite snack, a warm fluffy blanket, and a vanilla scented candle because you won't want to move once you start reading this festive emotional book. I wonder what a date with Santa would be like, is anyone willing to find out with me? The joy of Christmas is so magical and beautiful.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND BALLANTINE FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!!!
Sage Madison is vying for the manager position at Park Marketing which is a well respected agency. Sage has been working towards this goal for years, she's a corporate woman through and through, but things come to a halt when Sage is called upon to take care of her five year old nephew Ricky for the month of December. Sage's sister Saffron is being deployed with the Army Reserve to help with cleanup after a hurricane wrecked havoc in Florida, Ricky's dad died after he fell on the ice and suffered a catastrophic head injury. Every year Sage is called upon to rescue her sister for one reason or another, but this time it's difficult because Sage dedicates her life to her job and she has limited maternal instincts, but now Sage is determined to make sure Christmas is festive enough for Ricky. Erica Leeman- Sage's assistant and friend helps as much as she can and Erica gives Sage the confidence that she can care for her nephew. Sage literally has nothing in her condo, but she needs a Christmas tree and decorations, and Ricky insists that he wants to take homemade cookies to the real Santa, and these cookies specifically have to be homemade- those are Ricky's orders. Ricky was the cutest little boy, he's wise beyond his years and of course he's a professional scrambled egg maker. Their cookie baking scene was so cute- Sage and Ricky had matching aprons. Before Ricky came to live with Sage, she lived inside of a bubble because her whole life just revolves around her job. Sage left Chicago for Seattle to mend her broken heart. During his stay, Ricky gave Sage a gift- an appreciation of Christmas- how beautiful.
Ethan Cornwell runs the accounting department at Park Marketing, and now he's in the running for the manager position, but never told Sage, she had to find out from nosey office birds who can't mind their own business, ya know those types of people? Ethan is strikingly attractive with dark hair and deep blue eyes. Ethan plays Santa for his nieces and nephews, but now he's offering to be the real Santa for Ricky since Christmas is only two weeks ago, but that's only if Sage agrees to go on a date with him. There's really not too much to say specifically about Ethan. He's such a sweetie pie, he has a big heart, and he's a spaghetti and meatball enthusiast. I mean, ladies, get you a man that will cook you dinner. I loved Ethan from the minute he was mentioned, he never had bad intentions, he was always willing to help those around him, I mean he wanted to help Sage the minute she said her nephew was coming to live with her for the month of December. If that doesn't tell you the type of man Ethan is then I don't know what will, I mean he's a hottie with a big heart. I can't wait for y'all to fall in love with this man.
Sage and Ethan are such a package deal, they are both the sweetest people with the biggest hearts. Sage and Ethan dated a couple of times, but it was never super serious, but over the last few months they have been growing attracted to each other- although they are a bit cautious because Sage is reserved when it comes to relationships especially with someone who works in the same office as her, so they keep their relationship on the down low to avoid office scandal. Sage claims they are now rivals because they are both vying for the manager position, but Ethan doesn't think of Sage as competition. Sage wants to keep her distance from Ethan after learning they are both up for the same position because she was once betrayed by her best friend and soon to be husband- well now her ex because he wanted to be a cheating liar. Ethan and Sage both want to make Christmas special for Ricky, so they drive around to see Christmas lights and displays with a special place for hot cocoa. Oops before I forget to mention, there's ice skating and Christmas kisses involved. I absolutely loved Ethan and Sage as individuals, but watching the work together to make Christmas special for Ricky truly warmed my heart. I appreciate that Ethan didn't see Sage as competition, they were just two people dedicated to their jobs both vying for the same position.
THANK YOU TO NETGALLEY AND BALLANTINE FOR AN ARC OF THIS BOOK IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW!!!!!!!!!
Sage Madison is vying for the manager position at Park Marketing which is a well respected agency. Sage has been working towards this goal for years, she's a corporate woman through and through, but things come to a halt when Sage is called upon to take care of her five year old nephew Ricky for the month of December. Sage's sister Saffron is being deployed with the Army Reserve to help with cleanup after a hurricane wrecked havoc in Florida, Ricky's dad died after he fell on the ice and suffered a catastrophic head injury. Every year Sage is called upon to rescue her sister for one reason or another, but this time it's difficult because Sage dedicates her life to her job and she has limited maternal instincts, but now Sage is determined to make sure Christmas is festive enough for Ricky. Erica Leeman- Sage's assistant and friend helps as much as she can and Erica gives Sage the confidence that she can care for her nephew. Sage literally has nothing in her condo, but she needs a Christmas tree and decorations, and Ricky insists that he wants to take homemade cookies to the real Santa, and these cookies specifically have to be homemade- those are Ricky's orders. Ricky was the cutest little boy, he's wise beyond his years and of course he's a professional scrambled egg maker. Their cookie baking scene was so cute- Sage and Ricky had matching aprons. Before Ricky came to live with Sage, she lived inside of a bubble because her whole life just revolves around her job. Sage left Chicago for Seattle to mend her broken heart. During his stay, Ricky gave Sage a gift- an appreciation of Christmas- how beautiful.
Ethan Cornwell runs the accounting department at Park Marketing, and now he's in the running for the manager position, but never told Sage, she had to find out from nosey office birds who can't mind their own business, ya know those types of people? Ethan is strikingly attractive with dark hair and deep blue eyes. Ethan plays Santa for his nieces and nephews, but now he's offering to be the real Santa for Ricky since Christmas is only two weeks ago, but that's only if Sage agrees to go on a date with him. There's really not too much to say specifically about Ethan. He's such a sweetie pie, he has a big heart, and he's a spaghetti and meatball enthusiast. I mean, ladies, get you a man that will cook you dinner. I loved Ethan from the minute he was mentioned, he never had bad intentions, he was always willing to help those around him, I mean he wanted to help Sage the minute she said her nephew was coming to live with her for the month of December. If that doesn't tell you the type of man Ethan is then I don't know what will, I mean he's a hottie with a big heart. I can't wait for y'all to fall in love with this man.
Sage and Ethan are such a package deal, they are both the sweetest people with the biggest hearts. Sage and Ethan dated a couple of times, but it was never super serious, but over the last few months they have been growing attracted to each other- although they are a bit cautious because Sage is reserved when it comes to relationships especially with someone who works in the same office as her, so they keep their relationship on the down low to avoid office scandal. Sage claims they are now rivals because they are both vying for the manager position, but Ethan doesn't think of Sage as competition. Sage wants to keep her distance from Ethan after learning they are both up for the same position because she was once betrayed by her best friend and soon to be husband- well now her ex because he wanted to be a cheating liar. Ethan and Sage both want to make Christmas special for Ricky, so they drive around to see Christmas lights and displays with a special place for hot cocoa. Oops before I forget to mention, there's ice skating and Christmas kisses involved. I absolutely loved Ethan and Sage as individuals, but watching the work together to make Christmas special for Ricky truly warmed my heart. I appreciate that Ethan didn't see Sage as competition, they were just two people dedicated to their jobs both vying for the same position.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Date with Santa is a perfect heartwarming, cozy Christmas read that we have come to expect from Debbie Macomber. Sage moved from her hometown of Chicago to Seattle after a bad breakup. She is doing well at the marketing firm where she is working towards a promotion. When her sister is deployed for hurricane relief in Florida for the month of December, she grudgingly agrees to keep her five-year-old nephew. Ricky is a sweet little boy who knows more than his aunt about cooking and eating right. And that's not all, he wants to make cookies for the "real" Santa. A friend from work, Ethan, comes to her rescue. What was such a wrench in her life turns into a real blessing as Sage finds what is really important in life, especially at Christmas. And a date with Santa turns out to be the best date of her life. I loved the characters, family gatherings, and special, festive moments with children that make the season so fun..
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I am not usually a fan of reading about kids in stories, but this one was a delight. Macomber created the best characters that really tugged on those heartstrings.
An unexpected deployment means that Auntie Sage has to figure out how to care for her nephew, who is too wise for her. Juggling Ricky, work, new accounts, and possible promotions during the Christmas holiday is just a tad stressful, especially when she doesn’t even cook. Enter Ethan with a mad crush and a heart of gold.
One of the top reasons Macomber is a go-to author for cozy, feel-good stories is her warm characters. From the lead characters to the secondary line-up, the tight bonds, care, and friendships are paramount. Positivity and humor lead the way. All of the main characters are memorable, sweet, and kind. I love that.
This book is an easy read and one that you do not want to put down! If you are a big Hallmark Christmas movie lover, this is your new holiday book read for the season. So sweet!
~~~~
* I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-date-with-...
An unexpected deployment means that Auntie Sage has to figure out how to care for her nephew, who is too wise for her. Juggling Ricky, work, new accounts, and possible promotions during the Christmas holiday is just a tad stressful, especially when she doesn’t even cook. Enter Ethan with a mad crush and a heart of gold.
One of the top reasons Macomber is a go-to author for cozy, feel-good stories is her warm characters. From the lead characters to the secondary line-up, the tight bonds, care, and friendships are paramount. Positivity and humor lead the way. All of the main characters are memorable, sweet, and kind. I love that.
This book is an easy read and one that you do not want to put down! If you are a big Hallmark Christmas movie lover, this is your new holiday book read for the season. So sweet!
~~~~
* I voluntarily read an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
* Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/a-date-with-...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Debbie Macomber delivers another heartwarming Christmas story that reminds us what truly matters in life.
When Sage unexpectedly takes over caring for her young nephew, Ricky, for a month, she quickly discovers that balancing a demanding career and a child was as difficult as she imagined. Ricky, however, becomes the unexpected bright spot in her life, teaching her that there’s more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. She’s been so focused on work that she's forgotten about the rest of life.
Enter Ethan, a coworker she's gone out with a few times, who steps in to help with Ricky. Watching Sage and Ethan grow closer as they share Christmas traditions, holiday festivities, and the everyday moments of caring for a child is both sweet and believable. Their romance unfolds naturally, offering the cozy, full of hope feel to every page.
Of course, no workplace romance would be complete without obstacles. Sage is competing for a big promotion and her rival, Troy, isn't above using her temporary family responsibilities against her. The push pull between them creates just enough tension to keep the story moving while reinforcing the story's central message.
What I loved most about A Date with Santa is its reminder that work can consume our lives if we let it. Promotions, deadlines, and titles will always be there, but the people we love, the memories we make, and the joy of simply being present are far more important. It's a message that feels especially meaningful during the Christmas season.
If you're looking for a heartwarming holiday romance filled with family, love, Christmas magic, and a gentle reminder to slow down and cherish what matters most, A Date With Santa must be on your holiday TBR.
A Date With Santa wraps your heart in Christmas magic and reminds us that life's greatest gifts are the moments we share with the people we love.
When Sage unexpectedly takes over caring for her young nephew, Ricky, for a month, she quickly discovers that balancing a demanding career and a child was as difficult as she imagined. Ricky, however, becomes the unexpected bright spot in her life, teaching her that there’s more to life than climbing the corporate ladder. She’s been so focused on work that she's forgotten about the rest of life.
Enter Ethan, a coworker she's gone out with a few times, who steps in to help with Ricky. Watching Sage and Ethan grow closer as they share Christmas traditions, holiday festivities, and the everyday moments of caring for a child is both sweet and believable. Their romance unfolds naturally, offering the cozy, full of hope feel to every page.
Of course, no workplace romance would be complete without obstacles. Sage is competing for a big promotion and her rival, Troy, isn't above using her temporary family responsibilities against her. The push pull between them creates just enough tension to keep the story moving while reinforcing the story's central message.
What I loved most about A Date with Santa is its reminder that work can consume our lives if we let it. Promotions, deadlines, and titles will always be there, but the people we love, the memories we make, and the joy of simply being present are far more important. It's a message that feels especially meaningful during the Christmas season.
If you're looking for a heartwarming holiday romance filled with family, love, Christmas magic, and a gentle reminder to slow down and cherish what matters most, A Date With Santa must be on your holiday TBR.
A Date With Santa wraps your heart in Christmas magic and reminds us that life's greatest gifts are the moments we share with the people we love.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
It’s been a while since I’ve read a book by Debbie Macomber and I’m scratching my head as to why because she always delivers a light, engaging romance with endearing characters. To me, A DATE WITH SANTA is the best Debbie Macomber holiday book to date! I just loved every bit of this story! When an unexpected deployment comes up for Sage’s sister, her mother convinces her to step up and take care of five year old Ricky. Sage accepts her co-worker’s offer to help since he has nieces and nephews. Sage is desperate for Ethan’s help. The more time Sage and Ethan spend together, the closer they become. When Sage realizes that she is falling in love with Ethan, she’s torn and tries to apply the brakes to her feelings.
If you have been following my blog for any amount of time, you will know I am a big fan of Debbie Macomber and A DATE WITH SANTA is exactly why. I have always enjoyed Debbie Macomber’s stories, and A DATE WITH SANTA is no exception! Debbie is my go to author when I’m looking for a feel good heart tugging story and especially when I’m needing to read a wonderful holiday tale. Her holiday stories are almost magical and you can’t help but fall in love with them. I can definitely see myself reading this story over and over again and I’m not one to reread anything.
A DATE WITH SANTA will have you giggling out loud, at the same time holding your breath. The way Sage freaked out about her feelings was totally expected and I’m sure I would have done the same thing. A DATE WITH SANTA is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to and Ethan and all the secondary characters. A DATE WITH SANTA is a heart tugging story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down!
I have never met a Debbie Macomber story that didn’t pull on my heart strings and A DATE WITH SANTA did not disappoint. It is kind of predictable but I still loved every minute of it. It is a sweet story filled with family, emotions that will have you smiling and tearing up, second chances and no bad language or sex scenes. I look forward to Debbie Macomber’s holiday stories every year and as soon as I know they are coming I’m filled with excitement. Debbie has a way of pulling her readers right in and making them fall in love with all of her characters. I found myself cheering for and hoping she would be able to remember what Christmas is all about.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Ballantine Books through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
If you have been following my blog for any amount of time, you will know I am a big fan of Debbie Macomber and A DATE WITH SANTA is exactly why. I have always enjoyed Debbie Macomber’s stories, and A DATE WITH SANTA is no exception! Debbie is my go to author when I’m looking for a feel good heart tugging story and especially when I’m needing to read a wonderful holiday tale. Her holiday stories are almost magical and you can’t help but fall in love with them. I can definitely see myself reading this story over and over again and I’m not one to reread anything.
A DATE WITH SANTA will have you giggling out loud, at the same time holding your breath. The way Sage freaked out about her feelings was totally expected and I’m sure I would have done the same thing. A DATE WITH SANTA is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to and Ethan and all the secondary characters. A DATE WITH SANTA is a heart tugging story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down!
I have never met a Debbie Macomber story that didn’t pull on my heart strings and A DATE WITH SANTA did not disappoint. It is kind of predictable but I still loved every minute of it. It is a sweet story filled with family, emotions that will have you smiling and tearing up, second chances and no bad language or sex scenes. I look forward to Debbie Macomber’s holiday stories every year and as soon as I know they are coming I’m filled with excitement. Debbie has a way of pulling her readers right in and making them fall in love with all of her characters. I found myself cheering for and hoping she would be able to remember what Christmas is all about.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Ballantine Books through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
October 26, 2026
This was a very short book that will get you in the mood for Christmas. Sage lives in Seattle and has a very good job and is in the running for a promotion soon. She receives a call from her mother asking her to take care of her sister’s son the month of December. Sage loves her nephew, but does not feel that she is able to provide the care that he will need. After a brief conversation, Ricky is on his way to stay with Sage. It is not a good time for her since she is going up for a promotion that she wants very badly. The only part of this book that I did not like was Ricky seemed wise beyond his years. He certainly did not act like any five-year-old that I have been familiar with. There’s a romance brewing between Sage and someone she works with. Ethan saves the day for Ricky who wants to only see the real Santa Claus.
October 21, 2026
What a perfect book to kick off the holiday reading season! This was a super quick read that is clean & cute! It was like reading a Hallmark movie! I loved the story & the characters & this is definitely one I’d recommend!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
🎄🎁 Merry Christmas in July!! 🎁🎄
Debbie Macomber always brings the holiday spirit! Her Christmas books deliver every single time. I’ve read many of them at this point, and I look forward to her new Christmas book each year.
This book was absolutely CRYING to be adapted by the Hallmark Channel. The main character is a workaholic and a career woman left to care for her nephew during the month of December.
I really enjoyed this one, reading it in a single day. The nephew Ricky was really sweet and cute. I loved his funny comments (kids say the darndest things!) and I could really see the connection between Ricky and Sage deepen the more time they spent together. Sage barely knew Ricky at the start of the book and I could really see her come to care for him.
The romance was also very Hallmark-y with a business rival turned friend. Ethan wasn’t my favorite love interest ever but I liked how open he was with Sage. Sage was nursing a broken heart and was a bit jaded and he was really good to her and for her.
There were some humorous scenes and the story was very heartwarming. I liked the relationship between the sisters and of course the Christmassy elements!
Definitely one to add to your Christmas TBR!
Thank you to the publisher, Ballantine, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Debbie Macomber always brings the holiday spirit! Her Christmas books deliver every single time. I’ve read many of them at this point, and I look forward to her new Christmas book each year.
This book was absolutely CRYING to be adapted by the Hallmark Channel. The main character is a workaholic and a career woman left to care for her nephew during the month of December.
I really enjoyed this one, reading it in a single day. The nephew Ricky was really sweet and cute. I loved his funny comments (kids say the darndest things!) and I could really see the connection between Ricky and Sage deepen the more time they spent together. Sage barely knew Ricky at the start of the book and I could really see her come to care for him.
The romance was also very Hallmark-y with a business rival turned friend. Ethan wasn’t my favorite love interest ever but I liked how open he was with Sage. Sage was nursing a broken heart and was a bit jaded and he was really good to her and for her.
There were some humorous scenes and the story was very heartwarming. I liked the relationship between the sisters and of course the Christmassy elements!
Definitely one to add to your Christmas TBR!
Thank you to the publisher, Ballantine, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Sage keeps her shoes in the oven, and then her five-year-old nephew arrives for the entire month of December expecting homemade Christmas cookies. This child has no idea he has just been placed in the care of a woman who has been using a major kitchen appliance as seasonal storage. Sage loves Ricky, obviously, but her normal life is work, takeout, artificial trees, and absolutely nothing that requires preheating. Ricky shows up with traditions, opinions, and the firm belief that Christmas involves doing things yourself. Within days, this woman is being managed by a kindergartener.
And the timing is incredible because Sage is also fighting for a huge promotion at work. She has spent years building her life around getting ahead, and now her sister Saffron gets deployed with the Army Reserve and suddenly Sage is responsible for another human being during the exact month she planned to professionally dominate. She is trying to prepare a major campaign while figuring out what Ricky eats, when children sleep, why apparently store-bought cookies are unacceptable, and how anyone has survived parenting without a personal assistant. Erica, her friend and assistant, is basically feeding her emergency instructions like Sage has been handed an unfamiliar appliance.
Then Ricky decides he needs to see the REAL Santa. Not a mall Santa. Not a convincing Santa. The actual man. Ricky has standards and he will apparently be conducting interviews. Sage starts scrambling because of course every professional Santa in December is booked solid, and this is how Ethan gets dragged into the situation. Ethan already plays Santa for his nieces and nephews, so Sage asks him to do it for Ricky. Simple. Except Ethan says he needs to spend time with Ricky first so he can actually know things about him and make the whole Santa experience believable. Sir. That is disgustingly thoughtful. Sage was trying to arrange beard-based fraud, not acquire feelings.
Ethan is also one of the people competing with Sage for that promotion, which is deeply inconvenient because these two have already dated and Sage has basically slammed the emotional emergency brake after finding out they are professional rivals. She has been burned before and is NOT interested in mixing romance with career competition again. Completely reasonable. Unfortunately, Ethan keeps behaving like a good person. He helps with Ricky. He shows up. He cooks. He participates in Christmas activities without acting like he deserves a medal for knowing how children work. Every time Sage tries to mentally file him under “potential workplace threat,” he does something kind and ruins the organization system.
And Ricky absolutely runs this operation. He wants a real tree. He wants homemade cookies. He wants Christmas done correctly because this is how he and his mom do Christmas, and Sage is trying so hard to recreate that for him while having absolutely no idea what she’s doing. The kitchen scenes alone had me because Ricky slowly realizes Aunt Sage does not cook in the same way one might realize their pilot has never flown a plane. And then there are THE SHOES. In the oven. Casual storage. Obviously cooking eventually becomes involved and the shoes pay the price because apparently Christmas miracles occasionally require footwear casualties.
But underneath all the ridiculousness, Sage and Ricky got me. She starts out terrified that she is going to disappoint him, and then somewhere between meals, trees, cookies, skating, and Santa logistics, she stops treating him like an assignment she has to get right. She just loves him. Ricky is missing his mom. Sage is trying to make December feel safe and familiar for him. Neither one needs some giant emotional speech about it. He needs her there, and she starts realizing she wants to be there. That part landed quietly.
And Ethan watching all of this is basically the final attack on Sage’s defenses. It is one thing for a handsome coworker to be interested in you. Fine. Manageable. Whatever. It is another thing entirely to watch that handsome coworker be patient and funny with the little boy you have fallen completely in love with. That is hostile behavior. Sage never stood a chance. Ethan keeps getting folded into these little family moments while she insists this is all temporary, and meanwhile I am looking around like, ma’am, you are ice skating with your fake Santa boyfriend and your nephew. The evidence is overwhelming.
Also, is it Christmas without a Debbie Macomber book? At this point I genuinely don’t think so. I’ve read almost all of her Christmas books, and they are basically family heirlooms now. I know exactly what I’m showing up for. Nobody is getting decapitated. Nobody has a secret basement. We are going to bake something, somebody is going to reevaluate their priorities, there will be Christmas magic that technically has rational explanations but emotionally does not need them, and I will be sitting there happily allowing it. Sometimes you want chaos. Sometimes you want Debbie Macomber to hand you cocoa and tell you everybody is going to figure their lives out by Christmas.
A Date with Santa gets 4.5 stars from me because Ricky stole the whole thing, Ethan is almost offensively decent, and Sage’s transformation from “the oven stores shoes” to “I am making Christmas memories for this child” worked on me exactly as intended. I loved that the romance grows alongside Sage figuring out what she actually wants her life to look like, but the heart of this one is really her becoming Ricky’s person for the month he needs her most. Also, any book that makes oven-safe footwear an actual concern has my attention.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Letting One Five-Year-Old Completely Reorganize His Aunt’s Kitchen, Career Priorities, Love Life, and Deeply Concerning Relationship With Her Oven
Huge thanks to Ballantine and NetGalley for the ARC and for continuing to support my annual Debbie Macomber Christmas tradition before I have even emotionally accepted that summer is ending. You gave me fake Santa logistics, workplace romance, homemade cookies, a tiny holiday dictator, and one grown woman learning the hardest Christmas lesson of all: ovens are for food.
And the timing is incredible because Sage is also fighting for a huge promotion at work. She has spent years building her life around getting ahead, and now her sister Saffron gets deployed with the Army Reserve and suddenly Sage is responsible for another human being during the exact month she planned to professionally dominate. She is trying to prepare a major campaign while figuring out what Ricky eats, when children sleep, why apparently store-bought cookies are unacceptable, and how anyone has survived parenting without a personal assistant. Erica, her friend and assistant, is basically feeding her emergency instructions like Sage has been handed an unfamiliar appliance.
Then Ricky decides he needs to see the REAL Santa. Not a mall Santa. Not a convincing Santa. The actual man. Ricky has standards and he will apparently be conducting interviews. Sage starts scrambling because of course every professional Santa in December is booked solid, and this is how Ethan gets dragged into the situation. Ethan already plays Santa for his nieces and nephews, so Sage asks him to do it for Ricky. Simple. Except Ethan says he needs to spend time with Ricky first so he can actually know things about him and make the whole Santa experience believable. Sir. That is disgustingly thoughtful. Sage was trying to arrange beard-based fraud, not acquire feelings.
Ethan is also one of the people competing with Sage for that promotion, which is deeply inconvenient because these two have already dated and Sage has basically slammed the emotional emergency brake after finding out they are professional rivals. She has been burned before and is NOT interested in mixing romance with career competition again. Completely reasonable. Unfortunately, Ethan keeps behaving like a good person. He helps with Ricky. He shows up. He cooks. He participates in Christmas activities without acting like he deserves a medal for knowing how children work. Every time Sage tries to mentally file him under “potential workplace threat,” he does something kind and ruins the organization system.
And Ricky absolutely runs this operation. He wants a real tree. He wants homemade cookies. He wants Christmas done correctly because this is how he and his mom do Christmas, and Sage is trying so hard to recreate that for him while having absolutely no idea what she’s doing. The kitchen scenes alone had me because Ricky slowly realizes Aunt Sage does not cook in the same way one might realize their pilot has never flown a plane. And then there are THE SHOES. In the oven. Casual storage. Obviously cooking eventually becomes involved and the shoes pay the price because apparently Christmas miracles occasionally require footwear casualties.
But underneath all the ridiculousness, Sage and Ricky got me. She starts out terrified that she is going to disappoint him, and then somewhere between meals, trees, cookies, skating, and Santa logistics, she stops treating him like an assignment she has to get right. She just loves him. Ricky is missing his mom. Sage is trying to make December feel safe and familiar for him. Neither one needs some giant emotional speech about it. He needs her there, and she starts realizing she wants to be there. That part landed quietly.
And Ethan watching all of this is basically the final attack on Sage’s defenses. It is one thing for a handsome coworker to be interested in you. Fine. Manageable. Whatever. It is another thing entirely to watch that handsome coworker be patient and funny with the little boy you have fallen completely in love with. That is hostile behavior. Sage never stood a chance. Ethan keeps getting folded into these little family moments while she insists this is all temporary, and meanwhile I am looking around like, ma’am, you are ice skating with your fake Santa boyfriend and your nephew. The evidence is overwhelming.
Also, is it Christmas without a Debbie Macomber book? At this point I genuinely don’t think so. I’ve read almost all of her Christmas books, and they are basically family heirlooms now. I know exactly what I’m showing up for. Nobody is getting decapitated. Nobody has a secret basement. We are going to bake something, somebody is going to reevaluate their priorities, there will be Christmas magic that technically has rational explanations but emotionally does not need them, and I will be sitting there happily allowing it. Sometimes you want chaos. Sometimes you want Debbie Macomber to hand you cocoa and tell you everybody is going to figure their lives out by Christmas.
A Date with Santa gets 4.5 stars from me because Ricky stole the whole thing, Ethan is almost offensively decent, and Sage’s transformation from “the oven stores shoes” to “I am making Christmas memories for this child” worked on me exactly as intended. I loved that the romance grows alongside Sage figuring out what she actually wants her life to look like, but the heart of this one is really her becoming Ricky’s person for the month he needs her most. Also, any book that makes oven-safe footwear an actual concern has my attention.
Merry Mayhem Prize: For Letting One Five-Year-Old Completely Reorganize His Aunt’s Kitchen, Career Priorities, Love Life, and Deeply Concerning Relationship With Her Oven
Huge thanks to Ballantine and NetGalley for the ARC and for continuing to support my annual Debbie Macomber Christmas tradition before I have even emotionally accepted that summer is ending. You gave me fake Santa logistics, workplace romance, homemade cookies, a tiny holiday dictator, and one grown woman learning the hardest Christmas lesson of all: ovens are for food.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
How can anyone resist a kind, loving man who cooks? To top it off, Ethan's good with kids and has a warm, loving family, and, oh, yeah, experience at playing Santa. Seriously, I kept wanting to somehow reach into virtual land and give Sage a shake and tell her to open her eyes to what's right in front of her. Of course, the story probably wouldn't be half as good were it now for the self-made obstacles of one or the other characters in a romance, so just kick back and enjoy Sage's journey to finding balance and coming to understand what is really important in life. Having been burnt in the past, she's not only wary of being disappointed in love again but, well, she's also spent her life being a workaholic who has allowed her job goals to overshadow everything else.
Then, she's asked, well, maybe guilt tripped into watching her sister Saffron's son Ricky while her sister, who is military, is deployed to Florida to help after hurricane disaster. Needless to say, anytime being away from family is tough for a mother but, whoa, December, probably gone through Christmas. Ricky is at the age where he still believes in Santa and Sage is determined to give him the best Christmas she can, even finding the "real" Santa for his insistence that he has to have homemade cookies only to give to the real Santa while sharing his secret wish for Christmas. Enter Ethan, who has managed to fool even his own family members with his portrayal of Santa Claus. In the process, Sage slowly realizes she is actually enjoying not only Ethan's company but all the little things that make Christmas special to so many. Well, let's ignore her baking experiences. Baked shoes anyone? Seriously, that scene alone made me laugh out loud, all the more when Ricky innocently shares the experience having only sworn not to share with his mother. Kids do have a way of blurting out truths, don't they?
Bottom line, as with any good romance, just when things seem to be looking up, of course, there is a major bump in the road. In this case, the competition for promotion at work and the shenanigans of a competing co-worker. Troy, Troy, Troy, you given ambition and competition a bad, bad name. Of course, there is lots that goes on in the interval, including meeting Ethan's boisterous, loving family, Christmas tree decoration (Ricky has only disdain for the store bought/decorated one), learning to bake, cook, and then all the fun things we'd expect of a winter holiday season. This is Debbie Macomer, so you know it's going to have a happy every after ending but the fun and magic is getting there. My only "Huh?" moment as a former Floridian was the idea of hurricanes so late in year but, well, I gave that one a pass, too, figuring Mother Nature has been erratic of later. In other words, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Sage, Ethan, and getting to know Ricky and Saffron. Thanks #BallantineBooks for the early peek at this delightful, sweet holiday romance. Honestly, as much as I enjoyed the adults, I think Ricky turned out to be my favorite character. Hey, this kid had his priorities straight.
Then, she's asked, well, maybe guilt tripped into watching her sister Saffron's son Ricky while her sister, who is military, is deployed to Florida to help after hurricane disaster. Needless to say, anytime being away from family is tough for a mother but, whoa, December, probably gone through Christmas. Ricky is at the age where he still believes in Santa and Sage is determined to give him the best Christmas she can, even finding the "real" Santa for his insistence that he has to have homemade cookies only to give to the real Santa while sharing his secret wish for Christmas. Enter Ethan, who has managed to fool even his own family members with his portrayal of Santa Claus. In the process, Sage slowly realizes she is actually enjoying not only Ethan's company but all the little things that make Christmas special to so many. Well, let's ignore her baking experiences. Baked shoes anyone? Seriously, that scene alone made me laugh out loud, all the more when Ricky innocently shares the experience having only sworn not to share with his mother. Kids do have a way of blurting out truths, don't they?
Bottom line, as with any good romance, just when things seem to be looking up, of course, there is a major bump in the road. In this case, the competition for promotion at work and the shenanigans of a competing co-worker. Troy, Troy, Troy, you given ambition and competition a bad, bad name. Of course, there is lots that goes on in the interval, including meeting Ethan's boisterous, loving family, Christmas tree decoration (Ricky has only disdain for the store bought/decorated one), learning to bake, cook, and then all the fun things we'd expect of a winter holiday season. This is Debbie Macomer, so you know it's going to have a happy every after ending but the fun and magic is getting there. My only "Huh?" moment as a former Floridian was the idea of hurricanes so late in year but, well, I gave that one a pass, too, figuring Mother Nature has been erratic of later. In other words, I thoroughly enjoyed meeting Sage, Ethan, and getting to know Ricky and Saffron. Thanks #BallantineBooks for the early peek at this delightful, sweet holiday romance. Honestly, as much as I enjoyed the adults, I think Ricky turned out to be my favorite character. Hey, this kid had his priorities straight.
October 1, 2026
Debbie Macomber always writes such good Christmas stories and A Date with Santa was no exception. This one was cute, cozy and quick, making it the perfect holiday read.
Sage and Ethan made such a cute couple. Ethan really put in the work to win Sage over and he was just an all around great guy. I loved watching their relationship develop throughout the story.
Ricky has to be one of the cutest kids I’ve ever read about. He was pretty much a main character and I loved watching his relationship with Sage grow as well.
My only complaint is that the names were a little weird. Rosemary, Saffron, and Sage?
This was a sweet and heartwarming Christmas story!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this arc set to publish on Oct 13, 2026.
Sage and Ethan made such a cute couple. Ethan really put in the work to win Sage over and he was just an all around great guy. I loved watching their relationship develop throughout the story.
Ricky has to be one of the cutest kids I’ve ever read about. He was pretty much a main character and I loved watching his relationship with Sage grow as well.
My only complaint is that the names were a little weird. Rosemary, Saffron, and Sage?
This was a sweet and heartwarming Christmas story!
Thank you NetGalley and Ballantine Books for this arc set to publish on Oct 13, 2026.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A Date with Santa is a perfect heartwarming, cozy Christmas read that we have come to expect from Debbie Macomber. Sage moved from her hometown of Chicago to Seattle after a bad breakup. She is doing well at the marketing firm where she is working towards a promotion. When her sister is deployed for hurricane relief in Florida for the month of December, she grudgingly agrees to keep her five-year-old nephew. Ricky is a sweet little boy who knows more than his aunt about cooking and eating right. And that's not all, he wants to make cookies for the "real" Santa. A friend from work, Ethan, comes to her rescue. What was such a wrench in her life turns into a real blessing as Sage finds what is really important in life, especially at Christmas. And a date with Santa turns out to be the best date of her life. I loved the characters, family gatherings, and special, festive moments with children that make the season so fun..
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
I received a copy for an honest review. These are my thoughts.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A GREAT CHRISTMAS READ
SUMMARY
Sage Madison is single and focused on her career at a respected marketing firm. She is currently vying for a long-awaited manager position. When her mother calls and insists Sage take care of her 5-year-old nephew, Ricky, while her sister is deployed in the Army Reserve, Sage is beyond frustrated. She has no idea how to care for a little boy, and it couldn’t happen at a worse time; to top it off, the holidays are approaching, and there is no telling whether her sister will make it back in time for Christmas.
Although unprepared, Sage is determined to make Ricky’s time with her special, but when Ricky demands to see the real Santa, she is at a loss. When her friend and coworker, Ethan, volunteers to play Santa in exchange for a date, she reluctantly agrees and even enjoys the holiday festivities. When Ricky’s happiness is at risk because of a work requirement, Sage must make a life-changing decision.
REVIEW
A DATE WITH SANTA is a classic Debbie Macomber book and a great Christmas read. The theme is about Sage’s personal transformation and finding love when you least expect it. Sage’s emotional journey is the heart of the story.
Ricky's character is simply adorable. Everyone needs someone like Ricky in their life to remind us what the holidays are about. His innocence and enthusiasm make the book special. My favorite parts were the mishap while baking and the ice-skating scene. Ricky was a major catalyst in making this book enjoyable.
McComber’s writing is relaxing, warm, and comfortable, with a meaningful message.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here in my A Date With Santa | Book Review are my own.
Publisher Ballantine
Published October 13, 2026
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
SUMMARY
Sage Madison is single and focused on her career at a respected marketing firm. She is currently vying for a long-awaited manager position. When her mother calls and insists Sage take care of her 5-year-old nephew, Ricky, while her sister is deployed in the Army Reserve, Sage is beyond frustrated. She has no idea how to care for a little boy, and it couldn’t happen at a worse time; to top it off, the holidays are approaching, and there is no telling whether her sister will make it back in time for Christmas.
Although unprepared, Sage is determined to make Ricky’s time with her special, but when Ricky demands to see the real Santa, she is at a loss. When her friend and coworker, Ethan, volunteers to play Santa in exchange for a date, she reluctantly agrees and even enjoys the holiday festivities. When Ricky’s happiness is at risk because of a work requirement, Sage must make a life-changing decision.
REVIEW
A DATE WITH SANTA is a classic Debbie Macomber book and a great Christmas read. The theme is about Sage’s personal transformation and finding love when you least expect it. Sage’s emotional journey is the heart of the story.
Ricky's character is simply adorable. Everyone needs someone like Ricky in their life to remind us what the holidays are about. His innocence and enthusiasm make the book special. My favorite parts were the mishap while baking and the ice-skating scene. Ricky was a major catalyst in making this book enjoyable.
McComber’s writing is relaxing, warm, and comfortable, with a meaningful message.
Thank you to Netgalley and Ballantine for an advance copy of this book. All opinions expressed here in my A Date With Santa | Book Review are my own.
Publisher Ballantine
Published October 13, 2026
Review www.bluestockingreviews.com
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received a free copy of A Date with Santa, by Debbie Macomber, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Sage is watching her nephew Ricky, while her sister is deployed. This was a good read, but i just expected more from a Debbie Macomber book. I didnt cry at all, Debbies books usually tug on my heart strings.
October 23, 2026
A career driven woman is forced to slow down when asked to care for her nephew during her sister's deployment. What she expected to be a disruption ended up being one of the best things to happen to her as it sets her on a personal journey and forces her to reevaluate what she thought was important.
I always enjoy Macomber's holiday stories. They are sweet and heartwarming and never fail to make me smile.
Sage turned into a workaholic after being betrayed by her boyfriend and best friend. She developed trust issues and felt it better to funnel her energy into moving her career forward rather than building relationships. The arrival of her nephew, Ricky, turned her world upside down. Leaving work early, trying to cook meals, attending parties - this was all a big change for Sage, and it was a wonderful change at that. I liked seeing Sage enjoying things, having fun, and connecting with people. Ricky was such an adorable and charming kid too. He had this energy that I could not resist. He was youthful and yet, also an old soul. I could totally understand why Sage had to give into him.
And another man she could not resist was Ethan. I was glad Sage finally gave him a chance because he was a sweetheart. Loved him and his family so much! It was wonderful how welcoming and lovely they all were.
Overall - another fun, warm, and wonderful holiday story from Macomber.
*ARC provided by publisher
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I always enjoy Macomber's holiday stories. They are sweet and heartwarming and never fail to make me smile.
Sage turned into a workaholic after being betrayed by her boyfriend and best friend. She developed trust issues and felt it better to funnel her energy into moving her career forward rather than building relationships. The arrival of her nephew, Ricky, turned her world upside down. Leaving work early, trying to cook meals, attending parties - this was all a big change for Sage, and it was a wonderful change at that. I liked seeing Sage enjoying things, having fun, and connecting with people. Ricky was such an adorable and charming kid too. He had this energy that I could not resist. He was youthful and yet, also an old soul. I could totally understand why Sage had to give into him.
And another man she could not resist was Ethan. I was glad Sage finally gave him a chance because he was a sweetheart. Loved him and his family so much! It was wonderful how welcoming and lovely they all were.
Overall - another fun, warm, and wonderful holiday story from Macomber.
*ARC provided by publisher
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October 25, 2026
I have to wonder if perhaps this might be Debbie Macomber's next Hallmark movie. It has all the elements that make those so special which is why it was an absolutely adorable book to read.
I loved how Sage agrees to look after her nephew Ricky, which her sister is helping out with a hurricane relief effort in Florida. Sage barely knows Ricky, nor much about 5 year olds, or how to cook, much less how to keep the magic of Christmas of alive for him. But she is determined to give a go.
Ricky is like no other five year old I know, and in some ways I somehow struggled at times to believe he was so young, he knows how to bake, and knows all sorts of things, but the one thing he really wants is to be able to take Santa some cookies like his tradition, and to talk to the real Santa!
He is not happy with shop bought cookies and Sage's first attempt at baking them leads of a very humorous moment! And the first Santa experience Sage takes him to, he declares is a fake! This leads to Sage having to work out how to produce a realistic Santa, and in steps a possible rival at work, but that she might have been getting a bit close to!
I adored getting to know Ethan, his family as well as Sage and Ricky. There are so many just lovely moments in this book, and it was such an easy and warm book to read.
I loved every moment, and really hope to see this on a Christmas film channel in the next few years, it would look wonderful.
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
I loved how Sage agrees to look after her nephew Ricky, which her sister is helping out with a hurricane relief effort in Florida. Sage barely knows Ricky, nor much about 5 year olds, or how to cook, much less how to keep the magic of Christmas of alive for him. But she is determined to give a go.
Ricky is like no other five year old I know, and in some ways I somehow struggled at times to believe he was so young, he knows how to bake, and knows all sorts of things, but the one thing he really wants is to be able to take Santa some cookies like his tradition, and to talk to the real Santa!
He is not happy with shop bought cookies and Sage's first attempt at baking them leads of a very humorous moment! And the first Santa experience Sage takes him to, he declares is a fake! This leads to Sage having to work out how to produce a realistic Santa, and in steps a possible rival at work, but that she might have been getting a bit close to!
I adored getting to know Ethan, his family as well as Sage and Ricky. There are so many just lovely moments in this book, and it was such an easy and warm book to read.
I loved every moment, and really hope to see this on a Christmas film channel in the next few years, it would look wonderful.
Thank you to Sphere and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Clare Madison is a workaholic career woman. She’s up for a big promotion when she’s asked to watch her sister’s six-year-old son, Ricky, possibly for the entire month of December. Clare doesn’t have a lot of experience with children, and her cooking skills are next to none. Meals usually involve dining out or takeout, and not the healthiest choices, either.
Clare is worried about her co-worker and rival, Troy, who will do anything to win the promotion she’s up for. If he can use her time spent caring for her nephew against her, he will. Then there’s Ethan, another co-worker who she dated a few times, is attracted to, but can’t let anything stand in the way of this promotion.
Clare is determined to give Ricky a Christmas he won’t forget, but her idea of Christmas and his don’t match. Ricky wants to see the real Santa, not the department store kind. He wants to take home-baked cookies to Santa, also, not something from the grocery store. He’s not into professionally decorated Christmas trees, either. Ethan volunteers to help Clare give Ricky the best possible Christmas she can and she finally agrees to let him. The more time she spends with Ricky and Ethan, the more her views on work and life in general change.
A delightful, heartwarming Christmas story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Clare is worried about her co-worker and rival, Troy, who will do anything to win the promotion she’s up for. If he can use her time spent caring for her nephew against her, he will. Then there’s Ethan, another co-worker who she dated a few times, is attracted to, but can’t let anything stand in the way of this promotion.
Clare is determined to give Ricky a Christmas he won’t forget, but her idea of Christmas and his don’t match. Ricky wants to see the real Santa, not the department store kind. He wants to take home-baked cookies to Santa, also, not something from the grocery store. He’s not into professionally decorated Christmas trees, either. Ethan volunteers to help Clare give Ricky the best possible Christmas she can and she finally agrees to let him. The more time she spends with Ricky and Ethan, the more her views on work and life in general change.
A delightful, heartwarming Christmas story!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 24, 2026
Sage Madison's December plans are derailed when she has to suddenly watch her six year old nephew, Ricky. Ricky wants a traditional Christmas and Sage doesn't really celebrate as she is very focused on work and a promotion.
Throughout the book, Ricky teaches Sage to slow down and enjoy the holiday season. Sage starts to realize that there is more to life than just working. She also starts to develop feelings for her co-worker, Ethan, who helps her give Ricky a special Christmas.
This was a sweet holiday read. I liked the theme of focusing on what's most important in life!
Thanks Debbie Macomber, Net Galley, & Ballantine books for the advanced reader copy of this novel!
Throughout the book, Ricky teaches Sage to slow down and enjoy the holiday season. Sage starts to realize that there is more to life than just working. She also starts to develop feelings for her co-worker, Ethan, who helps her give Ricky a special Christmas.
This was a sweet holiday read. I liked the theme of focusing on what's most important in life!
Thanks Debbie Macomber, Net Galley, & Ballantine books for the advanced reader copy of this novel!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Debbie Macomber gives the cozy Christmas stories we all want and this one was yet again a delightful heartfelt story.
I just loved Ricky he has got to be the cutest character I have read in a while. Auntie Sage get "stuck" taking care of her nephew while his mom is off on a call from the national guard. Ricky ends up turning Sage's heart into a sponge and teaches her what Christmas is all about. Such a delight! I can't wait to add this cute story to my hard back collection.
My thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I just loved Ricky he has got to be the cutest character I have read in a while. Auntie Sage get "stuck" taking care of her nephew while his mom is off on a call from the national guard. Ricky ends up turning Sage's heart into a sponge and teaches her what Christmas is all about. Such a delight! I can't wait to add this cute story to my hard back collection.
My thanks to NetGalley, the author and publisher for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was just too cute! Debbie Macomber once again delivered all the goodness, warmth, and holiday magic I’ve come to expect in her Christmas books. I loved the cozy, feel-good charm of this story. As soon as I started I found myself curling up and getting lost immediately in this sweet holiday romance. This left me with that happy, warm feeling that makes this time of year so special. I highly recommend adding this one to your holiday reading list.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Pour the cocoa, cue the carols, and get ready for a cozy holiday treat with A Date with Santa by Debbie Macomber! Macomber has a wonderful way of drawing readers into a story through her engaging writing style, vivid descriptions, relatable characters, and charming small-town setting. I especially enjoyed Clare’s nephew, Ricky, whose visit gives Clare the chance to truly experience the holidays for the first time in years. It was delightful that Ricky wanted everything done a certain way—and, of course, the easy way simply would not do! The humor sprinkled throughout added to the fun, and I got a good chuckle out of the fire scene because I use my oven for a similar purpose. A Date with Santa is an uplifting, feel-good story that left me ready to deck the halls, decorate my Christmas tree, and hum carols all the way to Christmas!
August 30, 2026
This was really disappointing. The writing was shallow, and the 5-year-old nephew was certainly NOT 5 years old--he acted way too mature and had conversations far beyond 5 years. That bothered me the most, but really it was all bad. The dialogue was bad, the chemistry was nonexistent, and Ethan was freaking pushy at the beginning. Not very Christmassy, either.
October 19, 2026
A Date with Santa
A Christmas Novel
by Debbie Macomber
Rated: 5 star rating
I just finished reading A Date with Santa by Debbie Macomber, and it is the perfect book to get you into the holiday mood.
The story is about Sage, a workaholic who usually ignores Christmas completely. But plans change fast when she has to babysit her little five year old nephew, Ricky. She wants to make the holidays magical for him, so she asks her handsome coworker Ethan to dress up as Santa. He says yes, but only if Sage agrees to go out on a real Christmas date with him.
What I loved about this book is the realistic office drama mixed with the romance. While Sage and Ethan are out having fun doing holiday stuff, they are actually rivals competing for the exact same promotion at work. Sage is super scared to let her guard down because an ex broke her heart before, and she also has to deal with another coworker named Troy who tries to mess up her career. It adds some good tension to the story. Watching Ethan bond with little Ricky and hang out with his funny dad, Walt, is just so sweet. It is a quick, easy read. If you want something light and happy to read this winter, you should definitely check it out.
Thank you, NetGalley, Ballantine Books, and author, Debbie Macomber, for providing me with a copy of this ebook for review consideration. All review opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#Ballantine
#DebbieMacomber
#ADatewithSanta
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A Christmas Novel
by Debbie Macomber
Rated: 5 star rating
I just finished reading A Date with Santa by Debbie Macomber, and it is the perfect book to get you into the holiday mood.
The story is about Sage, a workaholic who usually ignores Christmas completely. But plans change fast when she has to babysit her little five year old nephew, Ricky. She wants to make the holidays magical for him, so she asks her handsome coworker Ethan to dress up as Santa. He says yes, but only if Sage agrees to go out on a real Christmas date with him.
What I loved about this book is the realistic office drama mixed with the romance. While Sage and Ethan are out having fun doing holiday stuff, they are actually rivals competing for the exact same promotion at work. Sage is super scared to let her guard down because an ex broke her heart before, and she also has to deal with another coworker named Troy who tries to mess up her career. It adds some good tension to the story. Watching Ethan bond with little Ricky and hang out with his funny dad, Walt, is just so sweet. It is a quick, easy read. If you want something light and happy to read this winter, you should definitely check it out.
Thank you, NetGalley, Ballantine Books, and author, Debbie Macomber, for providing me with a copy of this ebook for review consideration. All review opinions are my own.
#NetGalley
#Ballantine
#DebbieMacomber
#ADatewithSanta
http://goodreads.com/patriciasreading...
http://www.patriciasreadingroom.blogs...
October 21, 2026
Debbie Macomber delivers another sweet holiday romance. When her sister is deployed with the national guard for a month Sage Madison has to take care of her five year old nephew Ricky. The timing isn’t great as she is getting ready for an advertising campaign which could result in her getting promoted to her dream job. It is a big adjustment to have Ricky. Sage must figure out healthier meals, and how to make home cooked cookies for Santa. She also decides to reconnect with her church. Sage truly wants to give Ricky a Christmas to remember.
Ethan, a co-worker who has always had an interest in Sage offers to help as well. Even offering to play Santa. Of course that opens up the door for romance. This is a kissing only, warm as a hot cup of cocoa, holiday romance. Macomber has been doing these shorter holiday books for several years and I have read many of them. For fans of the author and others wanting to feel the Christmas spirit. Thank you to NetGalley and Ballentine Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
Ethan, a co-worker who has always had an interest in Sage offers to help as well. Even offering to play Santa. Of course that opens up the door for romance. This is a kissing only, warm as a hot cup of cocoa, holiday romance. Macomber has been doing these shorter holiday books for several years and I have read many of them. For fans of the author and others wanting to feel the Christmas spirit. Thank you to NetGalley and Ballentine Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.
October 17, 2026
Thank you NetGalley. This was a fun and cute Christmas read. Very fast paced. A quick read that’s filled with laughs, cries, family, Christmas, and the importance of family. I loved this book.
Sage gets a call from her sister who is now a single mom after loosing her husband a couple years ago. She is in the military and needed to help clean up after a hurricane in Florida during December. Sage is a single lady who spends all her time working and preparing for a presentation to hopefully get a promotion. Now she will have her 5 year old nephew with her. How will she manage her time, and be present for a little boy who may not see his mom this Christmas. Sage worries she won’t do good with him. How does she manage her time, what does a 5 year old eat, and how to help him not be sad. You will laugh and enjoy as Sage figures this out, and quickly realizes what’s important in life. 5⭐️
Sage gets a call from her sister who is now a single mom after loosing her husband a couple years ago. She is in the military and needed to help clean up after a hurricane in Florida during December. Sage is a single lady who spends all her time working and preparing for a presentation to hopefully get a promotion. Now she will have her 5 year old nephew with her. How will she manage her time, and be present for a little boy who may not see his mom this Christmas. Sage worries she won’t do good with him. How does she manage her time, what does a 5 year old eat, and how to help him not be sad. You will laugh and enjoy as Sage figures this out, and quickly realizes what’s important in life. 5⭐️
August 24, 2026
This book is filled with Christmas magic, romance, family bonding, workplace enemies, holiday festivities, and Christmas traditions. It was so much fun to read!
Sage is a workaholic who learns through taking care of her young nephew during the holidays that slowing down and being present is more important than climbing the corporate ladder. Through spending time with Ricky, Sage soon realizes how much living she has missed out on!
As for love, Sage has been hurt in the past; she has gone on a few dates with Ethan; she likes him a lot, maybe too much, and that scares her, so she has backed off using the excuse that they are co-workers, and workplace relationships are not allowed. She's also working hard for a promotion; she doesn't have time for love.
When her nephew makes a Christmas request to meet the real Santa, Sage doesn't know what to do, so Ethan kindly steps in to help. Ethan says that he needs to spend time with Ricky, to get to know him, so that Ricky will believe that he is the real Santa when they meet. That means spending time with Sage too. Sage easily falls in love with Ethan after spending quality time with him. If it weren't for Ricky, she would never had taken the time to get to know Ethan, she would have continued to push him aside and put work first, she would have missed out on a chance at love.
What I liked most about this story is the gentle reminder that work can consume our lives if we let it. And I loved that Ricky encourages Sage to make homemade cookies for Santa rather than store bought ones, and to cook food at home rather than ordering door dash every day. Sage learns to cherish those moments!
This story has me looking forward to Christmas! It's heartwarming and cheerful! A must read during the holiday season!
Sage is a workaholic who learns through taking care of her young nephew during the holidays that slowing down and being present is more important than climbing the corporate ladder. Through spending time with Ricky, Sage soon realizes how much living she has missed out on!
As for love, Sage has been hurt in the past; she has gone on a few dates with Ethan; she likes him a lot, maybe too much, and that scares her, so she has backed off using the excuse that they are co-workers, and workplace relationships are not allowed. She's also working hard for a promotion; she doesn't have time for love.
When her nephew makes a Christmas request to meet the real Santa, Sage doesn't know what to do, so Ethan kindly steps in to help. Ethan says that he needs to spend time with Ricky, to get to know him, so that Ricky will believe that he is the real Santa when they meet. That means spending time with Sage too. Sage easily falls in love with Ethan after spending quality time with him. If it weren't for Ricky, she would never had taken the time to get to know Ethan, she would have continued to push him aside and put work first, she would have missed out on a chance at love.
What I liked most about this story is the gentle reminder that work can consume our lives if we let it. And I loved that Ricky encourages Sage to make homemade cookies for Santa rather than store bought ones, and to cook food at home rather than ordering door dash every day. Sage learns to cherish those moments!
This story has me looking forward to Christmas! It's heartwarming and cheerful! A must read during the holiday season!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Christmas! ✅️
Cozy and uplifting story premise!✅️
Wholesome romance!✅️
Gentle pull on ones heartstrings!
SANTA!!✅️
Debbie Macomber!✅️
Yes, Macomber's 2026 winter holiday romance book, "A Date with Santa," will definitely please her fans, and the Hallmark Channel will most likely be first in line for a screen adaptation. This reader, who has loved many a Macomber novel and fully appreciates her efforts and reputation within this genre, feels compelled to note that in this uncorrected proof, I found characters that might have benefited with a bit more development and better dialogue. When reflecting upon the book in its totality, it oftimes read like an embellished story outline.
This novel has a publish date of October 13, 2026. My thanks to NetGalley for the advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
Cozy and uplifting story premise!✅️
Wholesome romance!✅️
Gentle pull on ones heartstrings!
SANTA!!✅️
Debbie Macomber!✅️
Yes, Macomber's 2026 winter holiday romance book, "A Date with Santa," will definitely please her fans, and the Hallmark Channel will most likely be first in line for a screen adaptation. This reader, who has loved many a Macomber novel and fully appreciates her efforts and reputation within this genre, feels compelled to note that in this uncorrected proof, I found characters that might have benefited with a bit more development and better dialogue. When reflecting upon the book in its totality, it oftimes read like an embellished story outline.
This novel has a publish date of October 13, 2026. My thanks to NetGalley for the advanced digital copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2026
Light-hearted, predictable, Hallmark Holiday movie style Christmas novella but it was good on audio narrated by Therese Plummer and I enjoyed it nonetheless. If you like this style of story and authors like RaeAnne Thayne or Susan Mallory, you'll likely enjoy this.
October 25, 2026
Sage is asked to take care of her 5-year-old nephew, Ricky while her sister is called away to work on hurricane relief. Sage is currently working hard for a promotion and has no experience taking care of a child.
This is a sweet holiday book and I loved how the relationship between Sage and Ricky progressed. There’s a romance between Sage and a co-worker as he helps in making Christmas special for Ricky. This is a very quick read.
This is a sweet holiday book and I loved how the relationship between Sage and Ricky progressed. There’s a romance between Sage and a co-worker as he helps in making Christmas special for Ricky. This is a very quick read.
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