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The Twelve Dates of Christmas
*WINNER OF THE NOVELICIOUS DEBUT OF THE YEAR AWARD*
At thirty, Claudia's life is stale and the romance with long-term boyfriend, Seth, has disappeared. Determined to inject some festive spark back into their love life, Claudia and Seth go on their first date in a very long time. But when the night ends in disaster, Claudia suddenly finds herself facing life - and Christmas - alone.
Life alone is exciting, scary and full of soon-forgotten exercise regimes and ill-advised attempts at crafting sexy underwear. It's also filling up with dates, surprisingly. With best friends Penny and Nick at her side, a surplus of festive markets, mulled wine and Christmas tunes, Claudia attempts to face all this change with gusto. One thing's for certain: this year, Christmas is going to be very different . . .
This is the story of Claudia and her twelve dates of Christmas. Hilarious, uplifting and romantic, it's a story about losing love, finding love, and discovering what's been there all along. Expect Christmas sparkle, butterflies-in-your-stomach romance and a lot of very funny moments in The Twelve Dates of Christmas.
At thirty, Claudia's life is stale and the romance with long-term boyfriend, Seth, has disappeared. Determined to inject some festive spark back into their love life, Claudia and Seth go on their first date in a very long time. But when the night ends in disaster, Claudia suddenly finds herself facing life - and Christmas - alone.
Life alone is exciting, scary and full of soon-forgotten exercise regimes and ill-advised attempts at crafting sexy underwear. It's also filling up with dates, surprisingly. With best friends Penny and Nick at her side, a surplus of festive markets, mulled wine and Christmas tunes, Claudia attempts to face all this change with gusto. One thing's for certain: this year, Christmas is going to be very different . . .
This is the story of Claudia and her twelve dates of Christmas. Hilarious, uplifting and romantic, it's a story about losing love, finding love, and discovering what's been there all along. Expect Christmas sparkle, butterflies-in-your-stomach romance and a lot of very funny moments in The Twelve Dates of Christmas.
384 pages, Paperback
First published October 6, 2014
32 people are currently reading
930 people want to read
About the author
Lisa Dickenson
22 books140 followersHello!
I wrote The Twelve Dates of Christmas, You Had Me at Merlot and Catch Me If You Cannes. Hope you like them. You look super-nice today.
L xx
Oh, here's the official bio:
Lisa Dickenson was born in the wrong body. She was definitely meant to be Beyonce. Despite this hardship, she grew up in Devon attempting to write her own, completely copyright-infringing versions of Sweet Valley High, before giving Wales a go for university, and then London a go for the celeb-spotting potential. She's now back in Devon, living beside the seaside with her husband and forcing cream teas down the mouths of anyone who'll visit. She is sadly still not Beyonce.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 168 reviews
December 22, 2018
I have been itching to burst with things to say about this for as long as I have been reading it, and now that it’s finally over, I cannot wait to combust.
WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN THOUGH? Ugh. So, this book starts off with a 30 year old named Claudia who is getting ready to go out on a “big date” with her boyfriend of 5 years, Seth. You kind of get the impression that their romantic life is lackluster, so she’s trying hard to do the most to impress him as she’s getting ready. Then you’re introduced to him, and immediately you’re just like yup, this guy is The Worst- like, ‘follows her unsolicitedly into the bathroom on their “romantic” date at The Nutcracker to pull out his junk on her’ worst. And then they break up and you’re like, “okay nice, I hope this girl has some better dates after this!” But then you get to know Claudia and that all goes out the window because she is SO annoying, childish, gullible, and just plain stupid; I honestly forgot she was 30. It was also a mess how her feelings for certain characters kept changing so suddenly; she was really in no mental state to be going on any dates. How this woman got 12, yes, TWELVE dates in the span of like 3 weeks is beyond me.
And please do not get me started on the whole Nick story-line. Out of virtually nowhere, her best friend Nick confesses his feelings for her and it just felt like everything moved way too fast to be plausible. Of course the author had to add some more drama in there to spice things up a bit, so Claudia and Nick’s mutual best friend, Penny, just so happens to develop a crush on Nick out of nowhere as well while all this is going on – a crush so strong, might I add, that she’s considering him being her baby’s father all because she saw how good he was being to Claudia after her breakup. No. Just… no. Things don’t work like that, and there were many more far-fetched scenarios where that one came from too. For example, it felt like everywhere she turned, Claudia was running into Seth! I definitely am no expert on geography, but I do know that London is a large city, and there is no way that you would run into someone that many times in that short a period unless they were stalking you.
But anyways, the book wasn’t completely awful; it just was not my cup of tea. Some of the things that I did like were:
The cover: it’s really pretty, and I always get sucked into the pretty covers.
It felt festive: I wanted to read a holiday-themed book, and I thought this delivered in giving me that vibe.
Claudia had a Friends poster in her childhood bedroom: do I even need to explain this?
The dedication at the front: the author thanked herself in the dedication which I thought was kind of funny.
Besides those 4 points, this was trying way too hard to be a Lifetime movie with all these cheesy dramatic scenarios and I just for the life of me could not do it! It was like bad acting, except I was reading it instead of watching it, which felt really weird. If you like predictability, cheesiness, and exaggerated drama, you might like this, but it just was not for me.
WHERE DO I EVEN BEGIN THOUGH? Ugh. So, this book starts off with a 30 year old named Claudia who is getting ready to go out on a “big date” with her boyfriend of 5 years, Seth. You kind of get the impression that their romantic life is lackluster, so she’s trying hard to do the most to impress him as she’s getting ready. Then you’re introduced to him, and immediately you’re just like yup, this guy is The Worst- like, ‘follows her unsolicitedly into the bathroom on their “romantic” date at The Nutcracker to pull out his junk on her’ worst. And then they break up and you’re like, “okay nice, I hope this girl has some better dates after this!” But then you get to know Claudia and that all goes out the window because she is SO annoying, childish, gullible, and just plain stupid; I honestly forgot she was 30. It was also a mess how her feelings for certain characters kept changing so suddenly; she was really in no mental state to be going on any dates. How this woman got 12, yes, TWELVE dates in the span of like 3 weeks is beyond me.
And please do not get me started on the whole Nick story-line. Out of virtually nowhere, her best friend Nick confesses his feelings for her and it just felt like everything moved way too fast to be plausible. Of course the author had to add some more drama in there to spice things up a bit, so Claudia and Nick’s mutual best friend, Penny, just so happens to develop a crush on Nick out of nowhere as well while all this is going on – a crush so strong, might I add, that she’s considering him being her baby’s father all because she saw how good he was being to Claudia after her breakup. No. Just… no. Things don’t work like that, and there were many more far-fetched scenarios where that one came from too. For example, it felt like everywhere she turned, Claudia was running into Seth! I definitely am no expert on geography, but I do know that London is a large city, and there is no way that you would run into someone that many times in that short a period unless they were stalking you.
But anyways, the book wasn’t completely awful; it just was not my cup of tea. Some of the things that I did like were:
The cover: it’s really pretty, and I always get sucked into the pretty covers.
It felt festive: I wanted to read a holiday-themed book, and I thought this delivered in giving me that vibe.
Claudia had a Friends poster in her childhood bedroom: do I even need to explain this?
The dedication at the front: the author thanked herself in the dedication which I thought was kind of funny.
Besides those 4 points, this was trying way too hard to be a Lifetime movie with all these cheesy dramatic scenarios and I just for the life of me could not do it! It was like bad acting, except I was reading it instead of watching it, which felt really weird. If you like predictability, cheesiness, and exaggerated drama, you might like this, but it just was not for me.
September 15, 2016
Lisa Dickenson is the queen of comedic dialogue. No other author has made me laugh out loud like this.
Such a festive, happy, hilarious rom-com. Slightly reminiscent of Bridget Jones.
You may ask, but why, Melisa, are you reading a Christmas book in September? My answer is this: I am sick of the heat, I'm ready for the holiday season and I wanted to laugh...and Lisa Dickenson is a sure thing when it comes to laughter! Can't wait for her latest Christmas book coming out next month. Still keeping my fingers and toes crossed for an ARC. I recommend if you're looking for a light, silly holiday read.
Such a festive, happy, hilarious rom-com. Slightly reminiscent of Bridget Jones.
You may ask, but why, Melisa, are you reading a Christmas book in September? My answer is this: I am sick of the heat, I'm ready for the holiday season and I wanted to laugh...and Lisa Dickenson is a sure thing when it comes to laughter! Can't wait for her latest Christmas book coming out next month. Still keeping my fingers and toes crossed for an ARC. I recommend if you're looking for a light, silly holiday read.
December 20, 2014
This was the perfect Christmas book to read. I loved the whole book and all the characters, with the exception of douchebag Seth! Nick, now him? I want to marry him (apologies to my already husband)....swooning. Oh...and how I would love to experience Christmas in England! This book made it seem so magical. I'm glad I remembered that I had this on my Nook because it made me smile, laugh, feel good this holiday season, and it was so heartwarming. Loved!!!
October 20, 2015
Lisa Dickenson has arrived on the literature scenes and stolen my heart with a bang - I can read her books again and again and never have enough. We can say that "The Twelve Dates of Christmas" is her debut novel, as this story was published in 2013 in a six - part series, but it is now being published as a complete, brand new shiny paperback, and when it finally arrived on my doorstep (I've lost my hope for a moment, to be honest, as it took the book soooo long to find me!) it was really like Christmas coming early in October. It was an epic moment, EPIC, to keep this beautiful book in my hands. It was just what the doctor ordered.
I immediately felt at home when I started reading this book. Lisa's open, funny writing had me in stitches and she (again!) created a world full of humour, brilliant characters and feel - good feeling that I didn't want to leave. Her writing is full of situational humour, the most brilliant one - liners and the most incredible situations, and you really can't be sure where the author's fantasy is going to take you with. There can happen anything, but still this book feels realistic, not too far - fetched or overloaded with unnecessary dramas.
The characters in the book are so typical Lisa's characters - so true to life, full of awkwardness and realistic feelings and reactions, and I couldn't stop (I didn't want!) rooting for them from the very beginning. Or wanting to push them from a very high rock so that they couldn't disturb the real romance to blossom. Nick is right now my absolutely dream boyfriend and if I could ask Lisa one question I guess it would be if Nick is real (sorry, hubby!).
Claudia was a really wonderful, amusing character and she felt so realistic! I had a feeling that I can reach out my hand and she'll be there, right next to me. I loved her from the very first scene - she was so enthusiastic and so genuine in everything she did and said, and she was so lovely that it was impossible not to root for her and, together with her, have our hearts broken and then live in hope to find the right man. She was so easy - going and down - to - earth, and I totally adored to see how she realises that she also deserves to be happy.
There are so many books written about blind dates and dates altogether, but this what Lisa is giving us is a hilarious, original and fresh story with the most exceptional dates ever. Together with Claudia I was gasping at the rudeness/hilarity /incredibility /incredulousness of her dates, together with her I had my hopes set high, together with her I cringed with mortification and did some double takes. I couldn't wait for every new date to see what Lisa has in store for us this time - at times the dates were lovely and brilliant, at times they were horrifying. I'm not sure if I had my favourite date, as they were all Hilarious, with capital H, but OK, you twisted my arm :), and I'd say that the one on the ice skating rink, or rather the result of this date, was the best one - I don't remember when I was laughing out so loud as when I was reading this particular part of the story.
But this novel is not only about Claudia looking for a new boyfriend, oh no. There is much, much more to it, and one of the most beautiful aspects of it is the friendship and Claudia's relationship with her dad. The latter has made me cry crocodile tears, so beautiful and tender it was, and the love between father and daughter was palpable through the pages, and it made me feel so warm inside. Also, the friendship between Claudia, Penny and Nick was perfect, it felt so genuine and honest, there was nothing forced, and it was not only a plain sailing but they were also able to have an argument - and what kind of argument! There was this incredible bond between them all and the banter between those three was so, so hilarious and so realistic.
I've read some Christmassy books lately and they were all gorgeous, but I think that Lisa has in the best way captured the spirit of Christmas, and I am already feeling festive. It was the perfect Christmas read in October, but no matter if you're going to read it in winter, spring or summer - you're just going to love it with all your heart. And actually, reading the book has inspired me to write to Santa Claus and wish for a travel voucher to London - there is nothing now that I'd love to see more than Winter Wonderland or snowy London from the London Eye, and it is absolutely Lisa's fault - she has described all the settings so vividly and with so much warmth, and even though I could see them in my mind, I want to see them all with my own eyes, and chuckle to myself when seeing them and remembering Claudia's dates.
I can't express how much I loved this novel. It should take a proud place on your festive pile, or rather you should move it to the top of your pile, right now! It's a fabulous, festive, funny and tender read and I loved every single page of it! Together with penis ballet, this book has all you need in your life, and it is in fact the only present you need under your Christmas tree this Christmas - it's chick lit at its best, with beautiful romance, wonderful setting, brilliant dialogues, characters to die for, festive spirit and humour. I really can't recommend it highly enough - just go and treat yourself to a copy, and thank me later for the recommendation.
Copy received from publisher in exchange for a review.
January 4, 2019
4.5/5 you know what? this was actually really good! I loved Nick and Claudia. i loved the little bits of drama here and there. i loved how cheesy, predictable and festive this was! i wouldnt want anything more out of Christmas book. Happy to begin 2019 with a great read.
Thank god 1/3 of the holiday books that i bought was actually decent. Guess i was subconsciously saving the best for last!
Thank god 1/3 of the holiday books that i bought was actually decent. Guess i was subconsciously saving the best for last!
December 13, 2020
After buying the e-book I found out this was not the book I was planning to buy.. Wanted to read The Twelve Dates of Christmas from another author, but who thinks this title is published more than once :')
But since I already bought it, I still started reading it. It was a really cute fun Christmassy read. Finished it in a little over a day. Not spectacular and the plot was kinda simple, but still enjoyed and felt that Christmas-spirit what I wanted to read it for.
But since I already bought it, I still started reading it. It was a really cute fun Christmassy read. Finished it in a little over a day. Not spectacular and the plot was kinda simple, but still enjoyed and felt that Christmas-spirit what I wanted to read it for.
October 21, 2015
I felt like something a bit lighter after reading a ton of crime, and what better to give me a warm fuzzy feeling than some Christmas romance!
In the run up to Christmas Claudia finds her relationship falling apart, and is struggling with her ambitions and plans for life. With the help of her best friends Nick and Penny she decides to live a little and go on a series of dates, trying things she wouldn't usually, and hoping to figure out what it is she wants for the future.
Well written, with funny, believable characters, with Christmas references that aren't too in-your-face but blend into the story making it a wonderful holiday read. I loved the character of Nick, and think every girl would love a friend like him in their lives.
I would strongly recommend this intelligent, funny, romantic and entirely relatable story for anyone wanting a taste of romance with a festive feel. Loved it!
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group for providing me with an advanced review copy of the title.
In the run up to Christmas Claudia finds her relationship falling apart, and is struggling with her ambitions and plans for life. With the help of her best friends Nick and Penny she decides to live a little and go on a series of dates, trying things she wouldn't usually, and hoping to figure out what it is she wants for the future.
Well written, with funny, believable characters, with Christmas references that aren't too in-your-face but blend into the story making it a wonderful holiday read. I loved the character of Nick, and think every girl would love a friend like him in their lives.
I would strongly recommend this intelligent, funny, romantic and entirely relatable story for anyone wanting a taste of romance with a festive feel. Loved it!
I'd like to thank NetGalley and Little, Brown Book Group for providing me with an advanced review copy of the title.
September 22, 2022
I partly blame myself for trying to finish it through summer
December 24, 2022
the plot in a nutshell: claudia breaks up with ass-hat BF seth who is truly a terrible person. she then realizes she has always liked her BFF nick and they start dating. after their first night together claudia wakes up to find seth in their previously shared apartment picking up shit he left behind — nick is nowhere to be found. claudia checks her phone and sees a sus text from nick that was obviously sent to her by accident and which ANY RATIONAL PERSON would think was a mean, shitty text to a friend about their first night together. claudia (who literally ended a 5-year relationship with Seth a couple weeks ago) is broken up by this text from someone she trusted. she basically tells nick to go fuck himself. her other BFF penny meets her for breakfast the next day and penny shits on claudia for hurting nick and then shits on her for other random things as well, like how penny has claudia’s dream job and how she’s always been jealous of that. HM. fast forward, claudia and nick make up and claudia and penny make up — BUT LET’S BE CLEAR. no one says “hey claudia i can totally see how your mind jumped to conclusions as that was a very emotionally charged moment for you and i am truly sorry for not clearing things up before jumping to my own conclusions and acting like a massive dick-bag.” i repeat, this is not said! claudia, girl, you need to find better friends if this is how the ones you have are treating you. and claudia, nick really should have waited, i dont know, at least a month or two???? before hopping into your pants like that. a 5-year relationship is a lot to move on from, even if the spark fizzled out a long time ago. my god! someone get this girl into therapy! and away from these people!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 21, 2020
Claudia's life is stuck in a rut. She hopes to spruce her lovelife up by going on the first date in ages with her long-term boyfriend, who promptly dumps her at the Royal Opera. Now what? Wallow in self-pity? Or go on dates? Does she want a new boyfriend? Could her best friend Nick fill that gap? What would her other Bestie Penny say?
Cute and funny story about finding yourself, finding love, and London in the snow.
Minus 1 star for bad copy editing
Cute and funny story about finding yourself, finding love, and London in the snow.
Minus 1 star for bad copy editing
December 26, 2017
*SPOILER ALERT!*
This is my Christmas read! It's my second holiday book. I only read a holiday book during Christmas and for the last couple of years I've been reading Let it Snow by John Green and two other authors.
This was a really fun and festive read for the season. This will be a unique style of review. Since the title is obviously from the classic song, I'll be listing down Claudia's dates! But they can't be sung in tune -- I tried.
On the first date of Christmas my boyfriend gave to me, a broken heart and humiliation.
Damn Seth needs to be punched in the face really hard.
On the second date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a free drink in Starbucks and flirty body language.
Yeah I'm all for Nick, I can't really imagine how handsome he is. He's probably head-turning handsome and ladies just swoon over him.
On the third date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, disappointment and embarrassment for leading me on.
Now I hate you Nick, thank you so much for giving me false hope. I can really relate to Claudia, she thinks too much into things and when someone tells her there's a surprise for her she goes all the way only for her hopes to be shattered.
On the fourth date of Christmas my other bestfriend gave to me, the worst blind date ever.
Yeah that guy was just terrible! He has a point though, bringing his parents along for the date to save them countless dates only to find out his parents and his girl don't mix well together so he saves them the time and cut to the chase. If his parents don't like her then what's the point in going on more dates? But dude, there's always the second date! Plus you're not the most attractive guy anyway, Claudia is so much better without you.
On the fifth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a casual walk, a casual movie, and a casual dinner. Oh also the explanation to why he didn't kiss me the other night.
Oh sweet, innocent, and funny Nick. Claudia finally realizes she likes Nick only for Penny -- her other bestfriend -- to tell her SHE has a thing for Nick and wants his babies. And now I'm just laughing out loud because they're both in to their bestfriend. How did things become so complicated?
On the sixth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, an awkward date at the BBQ house because Penny surprisingly came along and Nick doesn't know she has a thing for him almost right after Nick told me he's "always had a thing for me". Also Penny -- my other bestfriend -- set me up on another date with a handsome guy who's first words to me was "you're not a ballerina, she said you were a ballerina, but your body is not of a ballerina". Whoop!
I love how funny they are. Claudia is just trying to divert Nick's attention to Penny because Claudia's being an awesome best friend by supporting Penny. Nick was also just so clueless and a but heartbroken when he found out Claud was going on another date when he just told her that he doesn't want her going on any more dates Penny gives her.
I also love Penny for understanding and taking a step back when she found out Claudia and Nick were more than just friends with mutual feelings for each other.
On the seventh date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a sprain and a trip to the police station.
Nick's reaction when he saw Claud in crutches. It. Was. Hilarious.
On the eight date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a limo with all things that screams he knows me so well, a kiss inside the church and unholy thoughts.
This marks their first kiss and a sweet one at that.
On the ninth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, more like what I gave to him.
She bought sexy undies and the malfunction was really funny but they finally did the deed! After a tour around the city which peaked Nick's interest so much because of his obsession with Charles Dicken's The Christmas Carol.
On the tenth date of Christmas my other bestfriend gave to me, a snowball fight but with baked goods inside a bakery.
Their fight was terrible, I didn't like it one bit because Penny had a great point but they were both just being childish too.
On the eleventh date of Christmas my ex-boyfriend gave to me, a terrible time at the wedding party. Also Penny wore the same dress as me.
This is probably my favorite chapter since everyone mended things and I also felt for Penny when she took what Claus said seriously about her clothes being too slutty which is entirely untrue. Nick and Claud finally made up when Nick almost bailed my heart sank but luckily he came to his senses!
On the twelfth date of Christmas myself gave to me, a new boyfriend, my ex out of my house and life, plans to visit my mom next year, plans to spend Christmas with the people I love next Christmas.
What I hated was that I never knew what Nick got Claudia for Christmas. I would have given it five stars if that were revealed.
The bonus lists were wonderful too! Namely, 'Twelve Tips to Dating in London' and 'Twelve Mini Breaks of Christmas'.
This is my Christmas read! It's my second holiday book. I only read a holiday book during Christmas and for the last couple of years I've been reading Let it Snow by John Green and two other authors.
This was a really fun and festive read for the season. This will be a unique style of review. Since the title is obviously from the classic song, I'll be listing down Claudia's dates! But they can't be sung in tune -- I tried.
On the first date of Christmas my boyfriend gave to me, a broken heart and humiliation.
Damn Seth needs to be punched in the face really hard.
On the second date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a free drink in Starbucks and flirty body language.
Yeah I'm all for Nick, I can't really imagine how handsome he is. He's probably head-turning handsome and ladies just swoon over him.
On the third date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, disappointment and embarrassment for leading me on.
Now I hate you Nick, thank you so much for giving me false hope. I can really relate to Claudia, she thinks too much into things and when someone tells her there's a surprise for her she goes all the way only for her hopes to be shattered.
On the fourth date of Christmas my other bestfriend gave to me, the worst blind date ever.
Yeah that guy was just terrible! He has a point though, bringing his parents along for the date to save them countless dates only to find out his parents and his girl don't mix well together so he saves them the time and cut to the chase. If his parents don't like her then what's the point in going on more dates? But dude, there's always the second date! Plus you're not the most attractive guy anyway, Claudia is so much better without you.
On the fifth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a casual walk, a casual movie, and a casual dinner. Oh also the explanation to why he didn't kiss me the other night.
Oh sweet, innocent, and funny Nick. Claudia finally realizes she likes Nick only for Penny -- her other bestfriend -- to tell her SHE has a thing for Nick and wants his babies. And now I'm just laughing out loud because they're both in to their bestfriend. How did things become so complicated?
On the sixth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, an awkward date at the BBQ house because Penny surprisingly came along and Nick doesn't know she has a thing for him almost right after Nick told me he's "always had a thing for me". Also Penny -- my other bestfriend -- set me up on another date with a handsome guy who's first words to me was "you're not a ballerina, she said you were a ballerina, but your body is not of a ballerina". Whoop!
I love how funny they are. Claudia is just trying to divert Nick's attention to Penny because Claudia's being an awesome best friend by supporting Penny. Nick was also just so clueless and a but heartbroken when he found out Claud was going on another date when he just told her that he doesn't want her going on any more dates Penny gives her.
I also love Penny for understanding and taking a step back when she found out Claudia and Nick were more than just friends with mutual feelings for each other.
On the seventh date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a sprain and a trip to the police station.
Nick's reaction when he saw Claud in crutches. It. Was. Hilarious.
On the eight date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, a limo with all things that screams he knows me so well, a kiss inside the church and unholy thoughts.
This marks their first kiss and a sweet one at that.
On the ninth date of Christmas my bestfriend gave to me, more like what I gave to him.
She bought sexy undies and the malfunction was really funny but they finally did the deed! After a tour around the city which peaked Nick's interest so much because of his obsession with Charles Dicken's The Christmas Carol.
On the tenth date of Christmas my other bestfriend gave to me, a snowball fight but with baked goods inside a bakery.
Their fight was terrible, I didn't like it one bit because Penny had a great point but they were both just being childish too.
On the eleventh date of Christmas my ex-boyfriend gave to me, a terrible time at the wedding party. Also Penny wore the same dress as me.
This is probably my favorite chapter since everyone mended things and I also felt for Penny when she took what Claus said seriously about her clothes being too slutty which is entirely untrue. Nick and Claud finally made up when Nick almost bailed my heart sank but luckily he came to his senses!
On the twelfth date of Christmas myself gave to me, a new boyfriend, my ex out of my house and life, plans to visit my mom next year, plans to spend Christmas with the people I love next Christmas.
What I hated was that I never knew what Nick got Claudia for Christmas. I would have given it five stars if that were revealed.
The bonus lists were wonderful too! Namely, 'Twelve Tips to Dating in London' and 'Twelve Mini Breaks of Christmas'.
November 16, 2020
I’ve been in such a reading slump. A friend gave me this and said it would sort me out. She was right! A light hearted, quick and easy going, festive read.
December 16, 2018
The only thing I liked about this was how British it felt! The setting made me reminisce on my time spent in London and made me miss it even more🇬🇧
Didn’t really relate to the characters or the plot. I found it quite blah. Oh well, I’m sure it’ll make a great book club discussion! (The crappy books always do)
Didn’t really relate to the characters or the plot. I found it quite blah. Oh well, I’m sure it’ll make a great book club discussion! (The crappy books always do)
October 19, 2015
Originally reviewed on http://beccasbooooks.blogspot.co.uk/2...
This is the very first novel by the wonderful Lisa Dickenson that I've had the pleasure of reading, and I have to say that it has been a complete and utter joy! There has been so much talk of this novel floating about on social media, so much so that I really couldn't wait to disappear inside.
In The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson, we're introduced to Claudia, a wonderfully amusing yet endearing character who I loved right from the very beginning. When we first meet Claudia, she's off on a very overdue date with long-term boyfriend Seth, and honestly? The excitement and enthusiasm brimming from Claudia within these first few pages was completely infectious. The reader is told, with Dickenson's gorgeously sweep-you-off-your-feet voice, of the relationship between Claudia and Seth isn't exactly what it used to be, and I think is definitely something readers can relate to! It was impossible for me not to get swept up in Claudia's positivity for the evening which she'd share with Seth, so when it all came tumbling down around her, my heart felt crushed too, just like Claudia's. From just the first chapters of The Twelve Dates of Christmas, I was rooting for Claudia. I wanted nothing but brilliant things to go her way and couldn't wait to see what Dickenson had in store for me, and Claudia, throughout the rest of the novel.
As the title suggests, Claudia ventures upon twelve dates in her story, of which made this an incredibly entertaining and delightfully humorous and witty book. Upon these dates, Claudia experiences a whirlwind of positives and negatives, having me both crying out loud with unsuppressed laughter and cringing horrifically with mortification. From Covent Garden and the Royal Opera House, to London Bridge Quarter and The Shard, Lisa Dickenson took me on a merry jaunt through the snowy scenery with a fabulous heroine, Claudia, by my side. It was exciting, at times deliciously sweet, and at others, heartbreakingly tender. It was a novel full of ups and downs that only added to my pleasure, and I really didn't want it to end. Ever. And although Dickenson's wit and winning humour won me over again and again, the snow-sprinkled romance shone through, regardless of other events taking place in Claudia's tornado-like life and won my heart over completely.
Besides the chaos of Claudia's new dating life, and the arrival of some pretty tough decision making, another aspect of The Twelve Dates of Christmas that warmed me from the inside out were the friendships within this novel. Claudia's two best friends, Penny and Nick, were an absolute delight to be introduced to, especially Nick. I loved the bond between these three, the shared past in ballet which they shared, and the hilarious banter and camaraderie that pinged back and forth. I feel like the friendship only intensified the festive cheeriness of the novel and made me love it even more.
I can't enthuse about The Twelve Dates of Christmas enough. It's certainly one to ensure you have in your Christmas to-read pile this year, and one that I know will definitely, without a doubt, leave you with the silliest, biggest grin on your face. Ever!
Fabulously festive, fire-cracklingly funny and sprinkled with the rosiest of romance! Becca's Books is awarding The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson with FIVE GORGEOUS CUPCAKES! You will laugh your Christmas socks off, I promise!
This is the very first novel by the wonderful Lisa Dickenson that I've had the pleasure of reading, and I have to say that it has been a complete and utter joy! There has been so much talk of this novel floating about on social media, so much so that I really couldn't wait to disappear inside.
In The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson, we're introduced to Claudia, a wonderfully amusing yet endearing character who I loved right from the very beginning. When we first meet Claudia, she's off on a very overdue date with long-term boyfriend Seth, and honestly? The excitement and enthusiasm brimming from Claudia within these first few pages was completely infectious. The reader is told, with Dickenson's gorgeously sweep-you-off-your-feet voice, of the relationship between Claudia and Seth isn't exactly what it used to be, and I think is definitely something readers can relate to! It was impossible for me not to get swept up in Claudia's positivity for the evening which she'd share with Seth, so when it all came tumbling down around her, my heart felt crushed too, just like Claudia's. From just the first chapters of The Twelve Dates of Christmas, I was rooting for Claudia. I wanted nothing but brilliant things to go her way and couldn't wait to see what Dickenson had in store for me, and Claudia, throughout the rest of the novel.
As the title suggests, Claudia ventures upon twelve dates in her story, of which made this an incredibly entertaining and delightfully humorous and witty book. Upon these dates, Claudia experiences a whirlwind of positives and negatives, having me both crying out loud with unsuppressed laughter and cringing horrifically with mortification. From Covent Garden and the Royal Opera House, to London Bridge Quarter and The Shard, Lisa Dickenson took me on a merry jaunt through the snowy scenery with a fabulous heroine, Claudia, by my side. It was exciting, at times deliciously sweet, and at others, heartbreakingly tender. It was a novel full of ups and downs that only added to my pleasure, and I really didn't want it to end. Ever. And although Dickenson's wit and winning humour won me over again and again, the snow-sprinkled romance shone through, regardless of other events taking place in Claudia's tornado-like life and won my heart over completely.
Besides the chaos of Claudia's new dating life, and the arrival of some pretty tough decision making, another aspect of The Twelve Dates of Christmas that warmed me from the inside out were the friendships within this novel. Claudia's two best friends, Penny and Nick, were an absolute delight to be introduced to, especially Nick. I loved the bond between these three, the shared past in ballet which they shared, and the hilarious banter and camaraderie that pinged back and forth. I feel like the friendship only intensified the festive cheeriness of the novel and made me love it even more.
I can't enthuse about The Twelve Dates of Christmas enough. It's certainly one to ensure you have in your Christmas to-read pile this year, and one that I know will definitely, without a doubt, leave you with the silliest, biggest grin on your face. Ever!
Fabulously festive, fire-cracklingly funny and sprinkled with the rosiest of romance! Becca's Books is awarding The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson with FIVE GORGEOUS CUPCAKES! You will laugh your Christmas socks off, I promise!
December 21, 2014
Yay, another Lisa Dickenson story!!! I loved her four party story You Had Me At Merlot, Lisa is a brilliant author and I was really excited to read this book! I wanted to read it last year already, but somehow time came in the way…
The story follows Claudia, she was a lovely character to read about. Very passionate, funny and lovable. I liked her from the start. Her first date of Christmas goes terribly wrong and she breaks up with long-term boyfriend Seth. I was glad she did that, he is a cheater and not the right guy for her anyway.
I was very glad that she had her best friends Penny and Nick to help her get over this. The best friends a girl could wish for ;) Suddenly she sees herself being on a date with Nick at Starbucks. I have to say I loved this date. Great places and described with such detail and sweetness, well done Lisa!
I felt that there was something between Nick and Claudia. They have been friends for a long time and the chemistry was just there, not just as friends…
Nick is amazing, I have to tell you. I fell for him myself ;) He’s attentive, sweet, funny, gorgeous, passionate and much more… I found myself a new book boyfriend ;)
Claudia goes on more dates, not only with Nick, but she realises that she’s got feelings for him, too bad her best friend Penny likes home too… After some misunderstandings and being drunk at a Christmas party, Nick finally tells her how he feels, just then Penny turns up…
That calls for some drama right?!
Well, when Nick and Claudia finally seem to be together a lot of misunderstandings, drama and fights follow. It made the story more interesting and exciting I have to say. I still didn’t like one particular decision Claudia made, but I understand that it was necessary and it made the chaps towards the end really funny and hilarious.
At a wedding it comes to the big showdown…
The last date is on Christmas Day and awww…. I can’t tell you more here. I just love the way this story was set up and built with these twelve dates, just brilliant. Lisa’s writing is perfection, it’s so funny, fresh, vivid and clear with a wonderful storyline and awesome characters. I can’t wait to read more of this wonderful and talented author!!!
The story follows Claudia, she was a lovely character to read about. Very passionate, funny and lovable. I liked her from the start. Her first date of Christmas goes terribly wrong and she breaks up with long-term boyfriend Seth. I was glad she did that, he is a cheater and not the right guy for her anyway.
I was very glad that she had her best friends Penny and Nick to help her get over this. The best friends a girl could wish for ;) Suddenly she sees herself being on a date with Nick at Starbucks. I have to say I loved this date. Great places and described with such detail and sweetness, well done Lisa!
I felt that there was something between Nick and Claudia. They have been friends for a long time and the chemistry was just there, not just as friends…
Nick is amazing, I have to tell you. I fell for him myself ;) He’s attentive, sweet, funny, gorgeous, passionate and much more… I found myself a new book boyfriend ;)
Claudia goes on more dates, not only with Nick, but she realises that she’s got feelings for him, too bad her best friend Penny likes home too… After some misunderstandings and being drunk at a Christmas party, Nick finally tells her how he feels, just then Penny turns up…
That calls for some drama right?!
Well, when Nick and Claudia finally seem to be together a lot of misunderstandings, drama and fights follow. It made the story more interesting and exciting I have to say. I still didn’t like one particular decision Claudia made, but I understand that it was necessary and it made the chaps towards the end really funny and hilarious.
At a wedding it comes to the big showdown…
The last date is on Christmas Day and awww…. I can’t tell you more here. I just love the way this story was set up and built with these twelve dates, just brilliant. Lisa’s writing is perfection, it’s so funny, fresh, vivid and clear with a wonderful storyline and awesome characters. I can’t wait to read more of this wonderful and talented author!!!
October 19, 2015
Originally posted on:> http://lauraslittlebookblog.blogspot....
Out of all of Lisa's books, hands down, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is my ALL time favourite of hers. It has everything you could want from a Christmas book. It's light-hearted, it's funny, it's cosy and it literally has the ability to feel all Christmassy and festive no matter what month of the year it is!
The Twelve Dates of Christmas was originally released as a 6 part ebook series back in 2013 and I got up to date 6 before my Kobo went kaput and guttingly I couldn't read any further :( but two years on and the absolutely gorgeous paperback version as come out and I was able to get all cosy and festive reading it. The story put simply is about Claudia and her twelve dates of Christmas and it is hilarious to read some of dates that she goes on. Claudia is just one of those characters that you can't help but adore and her friends Nick and Penny are equally adorable. Characters I have added to my best fictional friends list (you can have book boyfriends so why not book friends lol).
What really stood out the most for me about this book as it is a Christmassy book that properly made me feel festive. Everything that makes you think of Christmas is referenced at almost every opportunity and it was blooming marvellous. Some Christmas books don't quite manage to achieve this, so a big thumbs up to Lisa for calling a Christmas book a Christmas book and making it so.
Lisa also has this ability to make you laugh and feel good with her effortless writing. Her humour is top notch at making you snigger, snort and guffaw at so much. It's just so on time and quick, brilliant.
I don't want to say too much more as if you haven't yet read this, I do not want to spoil the absolute treat you are in for.
A funny, cosy, lighthearted and positively festive read that is THE book you should be reading this Christmas!
Out of all of Lisa's books, hands down, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is my ALL time favourite of hers. It has everything you could want from a Christmas book. It's light-hearted, it's funny, it's cosy and it literally has the ability to feel all Christmassy and festive no matter what month of the year it is!
The Twelve Dates of Christmas was originally released as a 6 part ebook series back in 2013 and I got up to date 6 before my Kobo went kaput and guttingly I couldn't read any further :( but two years on and the absolutely gorgeous paperback version as come out and I was able to get all cosy and festive reading it. The story put simply is about Claudia and her twelve dates of Christmas and it is hilarious to read some of dates that she goes on. Claudia is just one of those characters that you can't help but adore and her friends Nick and Penny are equally adorable. Characters I have added to my best fictional friends list (you can have book boyfriends so why not book friends lol).
What really stood out the most for me about this book as it is a Christmassy book that properly made me feel festive. Everything that makes you think of Christmas is referenced at almost every opportunity and it was blooming marvellous. Some Christmas books don't quite manage to achieve this, so a big thumbs up to Lisa for calling a Christmas book a Christmas book and making it so.
Lisa also has this ability to make you laugh and feel good with her effortless writing. Her humour is top notch at making you snigger, snort and guffaw at so much. It's just so on time and quick, brilliant.
I don't want to say too much more as if you haven't yet read this, I do not want to spoil the absolute treat you are in for.
A funny, cosy, lighthearted and positively festive read that is THE book you should be reading this Christmas!
October 29, 2016
How old is Claudia meant to be?! She must be around 30, but she seems to have the mental age of a 14 year old going by most of her antics here. What a load of rubbish. I couldn't finish it.
December 21, 2018
It’s the holiday season and Seth and Claudia are finally going on a proper date to the ballet. It’s been forever since they’ve gone on a date. They always get caught up in the day-to-day mundane routines. After being together for years, Claudia wants to add some romance back into their relationship and this is the perfect place to start.
That is, until Seth and Claudia get into an argument on their date and Seth ends up dumping Claudia. Even worse, while Claudia is going home alone to sulk, she sees Seth with his arm around another woman in a pub near their flat. This is Claudia’s night from hell—what started as a rekindling date turned into an epic disaster.
After a couple days of crying and eating her heart out, Claudia snaps out of her funk. She realizes there is no better time than the present to start living for herself. She has her best friends, Penny and Nick, by her side—she most certainly will get through this. So Claudia starts saying “yes” more and “no” less in an effort to step out of her comfort zone.
Claudia goes on a string of dates in the month of December—12 to be exact—and experiences the best and worst of dating, jam packed into only a couple weeks. Nick has always been Claudia’s best guy friend, but after their hangouts start turning into dates, Claudia starts questioning if she truly has feelings for him.
Just when Claudia thinks she’s figured out how she feels, Penny tells Claudia that she has a crush on Nick. Now Claudia is even more confused. She wants to follow her heart, but doesn’t want to ruin her lifelong friendship with Penny. And she certainly doesn’t want to lose Nick. Claudia is in for a much wilder, more romantic ride than she ever could’ve expected this holiday season...
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson is a laugh-out-loud holiday read. I love Lisa Dickenson’s humor and the way she writes such relatable storylines and characters. When I’m in need of something light and feel-good, she’s a go-to! 4/5 stars.
That is, until Seth and Claudia get into an argument on their date and Seth ends up dumping Claudia. Even worse, while Claudia is going home alone to sulk, she sees Seth with his arm around another woman in a pub near their flat. This is Claudia’s night from hell—what started as a rekindling date turned into an epic disaster.
After a couple days of crying and eating her heart out, Claudia snaps out of her funk. She realizes there is no better time than the present to start living for herself. She has her best friends, Penny and Nick, by her side—she most certainly will get through this. So Claudia starts saying “yes” more and “no” less in an effort to step out of her comfort zone.
Claudia goes on a string of dates in the month of December—12 to be exact—and experiences the best and worst of dating, jam packed into only a couple weeks. Nick has always been Claudia’s best guy friend, but after their hangouts start turning into dates, Claudia starts questioning if she truly has feelings for him.
Just when Claudia thinks she’s figured out how she feels, Penny tells Claudia that she has a crush on Nick. Now Claudia is even more confused. She wants to follow her heart, but doesn’t want to ruin her lifelong friendship with Penny. And she certainly doesn’t want to lose Nick. Claudia is in for a much wilder, more romantic ride than she ever could’ve expected this holiday season...
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson is a laugh-out-loud holiday read. I love Lisa Dickenson’s humor and the way she writes such relatable storylines and characters. When I’m in need of something light and feel-good, she’s a go-to! 4/5 stars.
November 8, 2021
This is an impressive debut which explores a world I didn't know very much about-the world of the professional ballet dancer. I loved being in London at Christmas time and the premise behind this book of 12 dates of Christmas is just inspired, this has all the key ingredients of a unique festive romance.
It was great to get to meet Claudia, even if she is a little clueless with her love life. I feel like I could relate to her from when I was her age. What I loved most about Claudia was the fact that she really championed herself. She has self-respect and really tries her best to lead with that self-respect even though it isn't easy. Best friends Nick and Penny really do help Claudia in this department and it was wonderful seeing that grow over the course of the novel.
I loved getting to meet Nick and Penny and I really enjoyed the relationship that these 3 friends had. I think that the London setting really helped to cement their bond because you don't always have family nearby so you have to make your own. Despite the fact that we also get to meet their families their bond was still as strong as family.
Let's talk romance. I loved the main 'will they/won't they?' of this storyline. It was wonderfully frustrating. Then add in all the individual dates, each of them more festive than the last. I particularly loved the Starbucks date but then I am wholly biased there as that is always my date spot of choice.
I listened to the audiobook of this novel. In terms of the narration, the tone wasn't great but it really didn't take away from the story overall and so I did really enjoy reading this. The level of festiveness is spot on and it really filled that gap between Halloween and Thanksgiving with the festive mood.
It was great to get to meet Claudia, even if she is a little clueless with her love life. I feel like I could relate to her from when I was her age. What I loved most about Claudia was the fact that she really championed herself. She has self-respect and really tries her best to lead with that self-respect even though it isn't easy. Best friends Nick and Penny really do help Claudia in this department and it was wonderful seeing that grow over the course of the novel.
I loved getting to meet Nick and Penny and I really enjoyed the relationship that these 3 friends had. I think that the London setting really helped to cement their bond because you don't always have family nearby so you have to make your own. Despite the fact that we also get to meet their families their bond was still as strong as family.
Let's talk romance. I loved the main 'will they/won't they?' of this storyline. It was wonderfully frustrating. Then add in all the individual dates, each of them more festive than the last. I particularly loved the Starbucks date but then I am wholly biased there as that is always my date spot of choice.
I listened to the audiobook of this novel. In terms of the narration, the tone wasn't great but it really didn't take away from the story overall and so I did really enjoy reading this. The level of festiveness is spot on and it really filled that gap between Halloween and Thanksgiving with the festive mood.
January 9, 2025
First off, a quick heads-up: this is an adult book, and I wasn’t prepared for some of the language and descriptions right from the beginning—so just be aware if that's not your preference.
I read this in one sitting, which speaks to its fast-paced and engaging style. The story pulls you into Claudia's world of failed relationships, self-discovery, and unexpected romance.
Seth? BLUGH. I couldn’t stand him (and I think that’s intentional). On the flip side, I really appreciated Nick’s consistency and the way he pursued Claudia with quiet determination. It’s a great reminder that sometimes what we’re looking for is right in front of us.
If you’re in the mood for a humorous, festive read about finding love and rediscovering yourself, this might be the perfect pick for your holiday TBR!
I read this in one sitting, which speaks to its fast-paced and engaging style. The story pulls you into Claudia's world of failed relationships, self-discovery, and unexpected romance.
Seth? BLUGH. I couldn’t stand him (and I think that’s intentional). On the flip side, I really appreciated Nick’s consistency and the way he pursued Claudia with quiet determination. It’s a great reminder that sometimes what we’re looking for is right in front of us.
If you’re in the mood for a humorous, festive read about finding love and rediscovering yourself, this might be the perfect pick for your holiday TBR!
March 24, 2021
Um pouco previsível, mas eu gostei :)
December 7, 2021
I was in the mood for a feel good Christmas book and this delivered.
December 16, 2021
En helt okej, cheesy julbok som kändes en aning tradig och seg ibland - men ibland glittrade den till.
March 1, 2018
Another great read from Lisa Dickenson. Her writing style makes characters come to life in a way that the reader can relate. She brings happiness, anger and lots of laughs to her books. I would definitely recommend her books if you want the feel good factor from a novel 😊
January 3, 2019
I was hoping that this book was going to be a cute little Christmas book, and I feel like it could have been. I like the idea and some parts were funny and had me laughing out loud (literally). But I swear every character seemed like the same person and very childish. For example, when Claudia was talking to her dad, it honestly felt like she was having a conversation with herself.
November 15, 2014
http://www.pagetostagereviews.com/201...
A few months ago I had the privilege to review Lisa Dickenson's snort-out-loud funny novel You Had Me At Merlot for Novelicious and so I was super excited when the complete version of her previous book, The Twelve Dates of Christmas, which was released last year in six bite-sized ebook novellas, arrived in my mailbox just in time for my annual three-month-long festive celebrations.
Twelve Dates does what it says on the tin, it chronicles main character Claudia's twelve dates during the month of December; ones which vary from the ludicrous (one of the men she goes out with has a nosebleed during the date. ON HER FACE!) to the utterly sweet. At the start of the novel Claudia sees her long-term boyfriend Seth's willy glaring up at her when all she wanted to do was take a quick wee during the interval of the ballet show she is watching and next thing she knows she finds herself single just before the holidays.
Even though Claudia is still trying to process what exactly went wrong between her and Seth, her two best friends, Nick and Penny, refuse to let her mourn the loss of what according to their expert opinion wasn't meant to be a lifelong relationship and they organise a series of distractions for Claudia. With dates to places such as the ice rink at the Natural History Museum, the Royal Opera House for a performance of The Nutcracker and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, this novel sets the perfect seasonal scene for Christmas crazies such as me.
Within the first few pages Lisa Dickenson had me cracking up again with her wonderfully witty writing style (this was also partly due to the mention of a glaring willy, which is certainly a memorable way to open a book). Lisa made her main character likeable and relatable so from the moment Claudia and Seth break up, the reader can't help but root for a much more suitable and swoon-worthy man to sweep Claudia off her feet. While the love story at the centre of the book was predictable this didn't detract from Claudia's hugely hilarious journey to finding her festive happily ever after.
As Twelve Dates was initially released as six separate novellas, at the end of each two dates (one date equates a chapter) Lisa throws in some unexpected twists and drama to keep the reader hooked and eager to pick up the next part. I for one am glad that I had the chance to read the full novel though, rather than having to wait for the next instalment to be released, as this is a read perfectly devoured in one go (preferably accompanied by a freshly baked mince pie and a cup of hot chocolate, generously topped with whipped cream and mini marshmallows).
Christmas may still be a little while off, but if you'd like to add some seasonal sparkle to the increasingly darkening days now then this funny read is the perfect festive pick-me-up!
A few months ago I had the privilege to review Lisa Dickenson's snort-out-loud funny novel You Had Me At Merlot for Novelicious and so I was super excited when the complete version of her previous book, The Twelve Dates of Christmas, which was released last year in six bite-sized ebook novellas, arrived in my mailbox just in time for my annual three-month-long festive celebrations.
Twelve Dates does what it says on the tin, it chronicles main character Claudia's twelve dates during the month of December; ones which vary from the ludicrous (one of the men she goes out with has a nosebleed during the date. ON HER FACE!) to the utterly sweet. At the start of the novel Claudia sees her long-term boyfriend Seth's willy glaring up at her when all she wanted to do was take a quick wee during the interval of the ballet show she is watching and next thing she knows she finds herself single just before the holidays.
Even though Claudia is still trying to process what exactly went wrong between her and Seth, her two best friends, Nick and Penny, refuse to let her mourn the loss of what according to their expert opinion wasn't meant to be a lifelong relationship and they organise a series of distractions for Claudia. With dates to places such as the ice rink at the Natural History Museum, the Royal Opera House for a performance of The Nutcracker and Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, this novel sets the perfect seasonal scene for Christmas crazies such as me.
Within the first few pages Lisa Dickenson had me cracking up again with her wonderfully witty writing style (this was also partly due to the mention of a glaring willy, which is certainly a memorable way to open a book). Lisa made her main character likeable and relatable so from the moment Claudia and Seth break up, the reader can't help but root for a much more suitable and swoon-worthy man to sweep Claudia off her feet. While the love story at the centre of the book was predictable this didn't detract from Claudia's hugely hilarious journey to finding her festive happily ever after.
As Twelve Dates was initially released as six separate novellas, at the end of each two dates (one date equates a chapter) Lisa throws in some unexpected twists and drama to keep the reader hooked and eager to pick up the next part. I for one am glad that I had the chance to read the full novel though, rather than having to wait for the next instalment to be released, as this is a read perfectly devoured in one go (preferably accompanied by a freshly baked mince pie and a cup of hot chocolate, generously topped with whipped cream and mini marshmallows).
Christmas may still be a little while off, but if you'd like to add some seasonal sparkle to the increasingly darkening days now then this funny read is the perfect festive pick-me-up!
October 19, 2015
Ok there is a part of me that feels a little mad starting my festive reads in October but there are so many sparkly Christmas books coming out so I am starting early to try and get through as many as I can and when The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Lisa Dickenson arrived through the door this beautiful cover didn't take much to convince me to make a start.
Claudia is not living the life she thought she would be living, her job pays the bills but isn't what she wants to be doing and her relationship has a total of 0% romance and after a last awful date night she finds herself single. With Christmas in sight Claudia begins her own adventure of having 12 dates before Christmas but will she still be single for the big day?
What a wonderful start to the Christmas reads. This book was very light hearted, full of romance and humour. From the opening chapter I found myself snorting away much to the disgust of my husband! The humour carried on throughout the book and it flowed so seamlessly without feeling false this is clearly one of the authors strong points in her writing being able to bring humour that will get the reader laughing out loud and it being weaved through out the storyline with ease.
The storyline did have a festive feel which I loved but I still feel that you could read this book outside of the festive season as it isn't overly festive.
I love The trio in this book they were all lovable, fun characters who had a great friendship.
At times I wanted to bump their heads together but ultimately I just wanted a happy ending for them all. The book was a little predictable but this is one of those books that it is about enjoying the journey and watching the amusing events unfold. The chemistry between Claudia and Nick was burning through the pages from early on but being in a tripod friendship group meant that I was a little worried if things developed how it would effect their friendship with the lovely Penny.
I can easily say I enjoyed this book even if it did make my cheeks ache from the smiling and laughing! This book will be a great gift for fans of Lindsey Kelk and Jane Costello.
Claudia is not living the life she thought she would be living, her job pays the bills but isn't what she wants to be doing and her relationship has a total of 0% romance and after a last awful date night she finds herself single. With Christmas in sight Claudia begins her own adventure of having 12 dates before Christmas but will she still be single for the big day?
What a wonderful start to the Christmas reads. This book was very light hearted, full of romance and humour. From the opening chapter I found myself snorting away much to the disgust of my husband! The humour carried on throughout the book and it flowed so seamlessly without feeling false this is clearly one of the authors strong points in her writing being able to bring humour that will get the reader laughing out loud and it being weaved through out the storyline with ease.
The storyline did have a festive feel which I loved but I still feel that you could read this book outside of the festive season as it isn't overly festive.
I love The trio in this book they were all lovable, fun characters who had a great friendship.
At times I wanted to bump their heads together but ultimately I just wanted a happy ending for them all. The book was a little predictable but this is one of those books that it is about enjoying the journey and watching the amusing events unfold. The chemistry between Claudia and Nick was burning through the pages from early on but being in a tripod friendship group meant that I was a little worried if things developed how it would effect their friendship with the lovely Penny.
I can easily say I enjoyed this book even if it did make my cheeks ache from the smiling and laughing! This book will be a great gift for fans of Lindsey Kelk and Jane Costello.
October 30, 2015
I would like to thank Clara Diaz from Little Brown Books for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review.
When first introduced to Claudia she is wrestling with annoying underwear while trying to impress her live in boyfriend Seth. Things don't go to plan when he follows her into the loo at the Royal Ballet and flashed his willie before her face.
This is a beautiful written Christmas story from Lisa, I loved the concept of it being set around Twelve Christmas dates. Each one of these are distinctive and takes Claudia on a journey of realisation. Lisa tells the story in a warmhearted fun way.
I loved Claudia and her best friend Penny their relationship was such fun to read about especially when they had a falling out, this had me laughing away.
The story's hero is Nick and although I couldn't picture him in my mind he really was so lovely and sweet to Claudia, everyone around them saw that they really were perfect for each other, sometimes it takes a misunderstanding to realise these things.
The story has such a festive feel that it can help but make anyone smile that reads it. Especially as it featured my favourite festive coffee, Gingerbread Latte.
When first introduced to Claudia she is wrestling with annoying underwear while trying to impress her live in boyfriend Seth. Things don't go to plan when he follows her into the loo at the Royal Ballet and flashed his willie before her face.
This is a beautiful written Christmas story from Lisa, I loved the concept of it being set around Twelve Christmas dates. Each one of these are distinctive and takes Claudia on a journey of realisation. Lisa tells the story in a warmhearted fun way.
I loved Claudia and her best friend Penny their relationship was such fun to read about especially when they had a falling out, this had me laughing away.
The story's hero is Nick and although I couldn't picture him in my mind he really was so lovely and sweet to Claudia, everyone around them saw that they really were perfect for each other, sometimes it takes a misunderstanding to realise these things.
The story has such a festive feel that it can help but make anyone smile that reads it. Especially as it featured my favourite festive coffee, Gingerbread Latte.
October 19, 2015
The Twelve Dates of Christmas is a funny, romantic and occasionally uncomfortably relatable delve into the British Christmas and relationships.
Told in third person narrative but with the focus on Claudia. The story follows Claudia's emotional journey following a messy break-up from a total douche after a five-year relationship. Claudia has a lot of self-esteem issues, she is one of those people who have visions of how things are supposed to happen in their heads and end up very disappointed when real life doesn't live up to the expectations. Having played it safe all of her adult life, Claudia is forced into re-evaluating what she wants to achieve in her life. The Twelve Dates of Christmas shows it is never too late to make your dreams come true BUT they don't just happen, they have to be worked for.
The romantic aspects within the narrative are obvious to the outside observer but with a few unexpected occurrences throwing major spanners in the outcome!!!!
With its exaggerated depiction of the typical British Christmas, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is sure to put you in the festive mood.
Told in third person narrative but with the focus on Claudia. The story follows Claudia's emotional journey following a messy break-up from a total douche after a five-year relationship. Claudia has a lot of self-esteem issues, she is one of those people who have visions of how things are supposed to happen in their heads and end up very disappointed when real life doesn't live up to the expectations. Having played it safe all of her adult life, Claudia is forced into re-evaluating what she wants to achieve in her life. The Twelve Dates of Christmas shows it is never too late to make your dreams come true BUT they don't just happen, they have to be worked for.
The romantic aspects within the narrative are obvious to the outside observer but with a few unexpected occurrences throwing major spanners in the outcome!!!!
With its exaggerated depiction of the typical British Christmas, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is sure to put you in the festive mood.
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