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The Christmas Project
Professional organiser Kate Stone has never – NEVER – been tempted to hit a client over the head with a snow shovel, but Michael O'Farrell is the most obnoxious – and heart-stoppingly gorgeous – man she has ever met. If he weren't her best friend’s brother, she would not have waited on his doorstep in the freezing cold for five minutes, let alone an hour.
Kate knows, however, that her job isn’t just about tidying up, sometimes she needs to be part therapist too, and Michael clearly needs her help to declutter his heart as well as his home.
But with the festive season just around the corner there isn’t much time to get Michael’s house ready for the O’Farrell family celebrations, but everyone knows that at Christmas anything can happen…
Kate knows, however, that her job isn’t just about tidying up, sometimes she needs to be part therapist too, and Michael clearly needs her help to declutter his heart as well as his home.
But with the festive season just around the corner there isn’t much time to get Michael’s house ready for the O’Farrell family celebrations, but everyone knows that at Christmas anything can happen…
370 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2016
536 people are currently reading
1364 people want to read
About the author
Maxine Morrey
30 books316 followersMaxine has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember and wrote her first (very short) book for school when she was ten. Coming in first, she won a handful of book tokens – perfect for a bookworm!
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
As years went by, she continued to write, but ‘normal’ work often got in the way. She has written articles on a variety of subjects, as well as a book on Brighton for a Local History publisher. However, novels are what she loves writing the most. After self publishing her first novel when a contract fell through, thanks to the recession, she continued to look for opportunities.
In August 2015, she won Harper Collins/Carina UK’s ‘Write Christmas’ competition with her romantic comedy, ‘Winter’s Fairytale’.
Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words loves to read sew and listen to podcasts. As she also likes cake she can also be found either walking or doing something vaguely physical at the gym.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 193 reviews
December 18, 2020
Actual rating: 4,5
I feel like I've been so lucky with my books lately.
Since HoHoHo readathon started, I read some amazing festive novels, and this one did not dissapoint.
Now, I only hope my luck will continue.
The Christmas Project has everything you want in a festive read: beautiful cover that catches eye, amazing setting with beautiful descriptions of surrounding, cold and snow, interesting protagonist and likeable side characters, hot guy and cute puppies.
I mean, what else could you ask for?
Just based on everything I just mentioned you should at least consider giving this book a chance!
The story follows Kate Stone, a woman who works as a professional organiser.
Her latest job is to help her best friend's brother organize his house for Christmas.
After his divorce, he stopped taking care of the place he lives in and the beautiful house started to look like a mass storeroom.
Kate was, as I already said, an interesting main character. She has a good personality, but is somewhat naive. She is a hard worker, really organized and good at heart. She likes to help people and she spends her free time helping in an animal rescue center.
Michael is a mysterious guy, hurt by his ex. In my own words, after his divorce, he became a grumpy hoarder.
I like how their relationship evoluted from hate/dislike to friendship, and then started to develop into something more.
All of the side characters in this novel were plain good.
I am still not sure how to feel about it. I mean, the story is full of white (I don't mean skin color!), one dimesional characters (there were, of course, two "bad" characters, that were also one dimensional).
I didn't like how "bad" characters weren't mentioned anough in the story, especially when it comes to Kate's boyfriend. I get that she spent almost no time with him, but I wish he wasn't just mentioned as absent boyfriend, I wish we got to see him more before "the big scene".
Also, when it comes to Michael's ex, I wish we got a chance to hear her side of the story, or anything that happened before the divorce.
In other words, I think negative characters weren't explored enough.
The writing style is simple and you can easily read the story, as it reads pretty quicky.
It is written in first person, following Kate's POV.
This story will wake up your emotions, at least it woke up mine.
I was angry, frustrated, sad, happy, felt the joy in my heart... And I swooned. A lot.
As the story was coming to an end, it became better and better with every page.
What I'm sure I'll get from this book is I'll remember one particular scene for a looooong time to come:
Overall, this was a great festive story and I highly recommend it to everyone who'd like to read something quick and easy that will put you in a festive mood.
Note: I got this book for free via Netgalley, in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you HarperCollins UK.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
I feel like I've been so lucky with my books lately.
Since HoHoHo readathon started, I read some amazing festive novels, and this one did not dissapoint.
Now, I only hope my luck will continue.
The Christmas Project has everything you want in a festive read: beautiful cover that catches eye, amazing setting with beautiful descriptions of surrounding, cold and snow, interesting protagonist and likeable side characters, hot guy and cute puppies.
I mean, what else could you ask for?
Just based on everything I just mentioned you should at least consider giving this book a chance!
The story follows Kate Stone, a woman who works as a professional organiser.
Her latest job is to help her best friend's brother organize his house for Christmas.
After his divorce, he stopped taking care of the place he lives in and the beautiful house started to look like a mass storeroom.
Kate was, as I already said, an interesting main character. She has a good personality, but is somewhat naive. She is a hard worker, really organized and good at heart. She likes to help people and she spends her free time helping in an animal rescue center.
Michael is a mysterious guy, hurt by his ex. In my own words, after his divorce, he became a grumpy hoarder.
I like how their relationship evoluted from hate/dislike to friendship, and then started to develop into something more.
All of the side characters in this novel were plain good.
I am still not sure how to feel about it. I mean, the story is full of white (I don't mean skin color!), one dimesional characters (there were, of course, two "bad" characters, that were also one dimensional).
I didn't like how "bad" characters weren't mentioned anough in the story, especially when it comes to Kate's boyfriend. I get that she spent almost no time with him, but I wish he wasn't just mentioned as absent boyfriend, I wish we got to see him more before "the big scene".
Also, when it comes to Michael's ex, I wish we got a chance to hear her side of the story, or anything that happened before the divorce.
In other words, I think negative characters weren't explored enough.
The writing style is simple and you can easily read the story, as it reads pretty quicky.
It is written in first person, following Kate's POV.
This story will wake up your emotions, at least it woke up mine.
I was angry, frustrated, sad, happy, felt the joy in my heart... And I swooned. A lot.
As the story was coming to an end, it became better and better with every page.
What I'm sure I'll get from this book is I'll remember one particular scene for a looooong time to come:
Overall, this was a great festive story and I highly recommend it to everyone who'd like to read something quick and easy that will put you in a festive mood.
Note: I got this book for free via Netgalley, in an exchange for an honest review. Thank you HarperCollins UK.
Read this and more reviews on my blog: https://bookdustmagic.com
November 14, 2016
If you're after a fix of cute, festive fun with a fabulous cast of characters then The Christmas Project is one to add to your list. Sometimes you just get a good feeling about a book from the blurb, and this was very much the case here.
"Michael O’Farrell, was merely abrasive and rude, no matter how tall, dark and gorgeous the wrapping was."
This was a delightful story of two people brought together who quickly develop a love/hate relationship. As a professional organiser, Kate is asked by her best-friend, Janey, to help her brother, Michael tackle the mess that is his home, ready to host the O'Farrell festivities; something he's not overly enamoured with.
"I don’t think Prince Charming has got anything to worry about just yet."
With good balance of quick, witty, dry, verbal sparring and heartwarming emotion, Katie and Michael's journey was easy-going and the build-up between them was paced to create the just right amount of tension. Their growing friendship is very much at the forefront of this story, the romance is slow-burn and perfectly fitting but what struck me throughout was how relatable all the characters are; everyday folk that we probably already know and love.
Add kids and animals into the equation and you can't go far wrong in my world. Having read this, Maxine Morrey is certainly on my radar and I've already grabbed her Christmas offering from last year to snuggle up and read over the holidays.
Copy received courtesy of Harper Collins UK via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
"Michael O’Farrell, was merely abrasive and rude, no matter how tall, dark and gorgeous the wrapping was."
This was a delightful story of two people brought together who quickly develop a love/hate relationship. As a professional organiser, Kate is asked by her best-friend, Janey, to help her brother, Michael tackle the mess that is his home, ready to host the O'Farrell festivities; something he's not overly enamoured with.
"I don’t think Prince Charming has got anything to worry about just yet."
With good balance of quick, witty, dry, verbal sparring and heartwarming emotion, Katie and Michael's journey was easy-going and the build-up between them was paced to create the just right amount of tension. Their growing friendship is very much at the forefront of this story, the romance is slow-burn and perfectly fitting but what struck me throughout was how relatable all the characters are; everyday folk that we probably already know and love.
Add kids and animals into the equation and you can't go far wrong in my world. Having read this, Maxine Morrey is certainly on my radar and I've already grabbed her Christmas offering from last year to snuggle up and read over the holidays.
Copy received courtesy of Harper Collins UK via NetGalley for an honest and unbiased opinion.
November 15, 2016
4 - "You're not alone any more." Stars!
If you are looking for a little Scrooge in your seasonal reading, then I don’t think you can go far wrong in giving The Christmas Project by Maxine Morrey a go.
And Michael O’Farrell was a pretty likeable Scrooge at the end of the day, even when being a grump, you can sense that there is a caring and considerate man hiding behind the scruffy clothes and Irish brogue.
"I know the I’m difficult and impatient and impossible to deal with – God knows I’ve been told it enough times over the past few years. I’m also aware that I’ve given you a hard time this evening and you’ve taken it all in your stride and pushed back when you needed to. I need someone prepared to do that. Otherwise I’ll take the piss and never get anything done and it really will be a waste of time."
This was my first read by Maxine Morrey, what drew me to the story was the premise, and the unusual nature in how Michael and Kate come together. Kate came across as a strong and independent woman, although like Michael she is nursing past hurts, which they gradually reveal to each other as the story progresses, with the more time they spend together organizing Michael’s house.
"It doesn’t matter what I think…"
"It does to me…"
The meaning of Christmas at the beginning of the book has vastly different connotations for Michael and Kate, one coming from a large family the other an only child with a single parent, but I liked that as the story moved along each of their impressions for the season changed, especially as the connection between them deepened. There isn’t a rush into romance with this one, it’s more a building of a friendship that morphs into more as they get to know each other better.
"I’ve never once lost my cool with a client and then you come along and ruin my perfect score."
I have to admit that one of my favourite things about reading Christmas stories set in the UK, is that the authors always have carte blanch on the weather, so you usually get snow, nothing beats snow at Christmas for me, and seeing as it’s not something we see with any regularity at any time in this country now, it’s nice to be able to lose myself in the white stuff without being cold and wet because it's whilst reading a really great story, and The Christmas project really was that for me.
"You’re kind of bossy sometimes. You know that, don’t you?"
Nothing hugely new about the tropes used, but the writing was good, pets and secondary familial characters were added into the story as well, so it was just a really well rounded, superbly written read.
"It’s always the quiet ones they say."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
If you are looking for a little Scrooge in your seasonal reading, then I don’t think you can go far wrong in giving The Christmas Project by Maxine Morrey a go.
And Michael O’Farrell was a pretty likeable Scrooge at the end of the day, even when being a grump, you can sense that there is a caring and considerate man hiding behind the scruffy clothes and Irish brogue.
"I know the I’m difficult and impatient and impossible to deal with – God knows I’ve been told it enough times over the past few years. I’m also aware that I’ve given you a hard time this evening and you’ve taken it all in your stride and pushed back when you needed to. I need someone prepared to do that. Otherwise I’ll take the piss and never get anything done and it really will be a waste of time."
This was my first read by Maxine Morrey, what drew me to the story was the premise, and the unusual nature in how Michael and Kate come together. Kate came across as a strong and independent woman, although like Michael she is nursing past hurts, which they gradually reveal to each other as the story progresses, with the more time they spend together organizing Michael’s house.
"It doesn’t matter what I think…"
"It does to me…"
The meaning of Christmas at the beginning of the book has vastly different connotations for Michael and Kate, one coming from a large family the other an only child with a single parent, but I liked that as the story moved along each of their impressions for the season changed, especially as the connection between them deepened. There isn’t a rush into romance with this one, it’s more a building of a friendship that morphs into more as they get to know each other better.
"I’ve never once lost my cool with a client and then you come along and ruin my perfect score."
I have to admit that one of my favourite things about reading Christmas stories set in the UK, is that the authors always have carte blanch on the weather, so you usually get snow, nothing beats snow at Christmas for me, and seeing as it’s not something we see with any regularity at any time in this country now, it’s nice to be able to lose myself in the white stuff without being cold and wet because it's whilst reading a really great story, and The Christmas project really was that for me.
"You’re kind of bossy sometimes. You know that, don’t you?"
Nothing hugely new about the tropes used, but the writing was good, pets and secondary familial characters were added into the story as well, so it was just a really well rounded, superbly written read.
"It’s always the quiet ones they say."
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, and it was a pleasure to provide the above honest review.
December 24, 2016
I have mixed feelings about The Christmas Project it was an enjoyable read, I liked the all the characters especially Michael, the story had it ups and downs and it was Christmasy.
I would not class this as a romance Kate was hired by Janey Michael's sister to organise his house after his divorce everywhere is a mess.
The time period in the story is about six weeks were they get to know each other after their disaster of a first meeting and how Michael changes with each appointment and I loved how everyone took care of Kate when she was ill, it took them long enough to kiss and admit their feelings which was at 94% see what I mean when I say not a romance.
I felt the last chapter was rushed the ending came to quick for me I would of like more time with them as a couple besides Harry Potter I can't remember when I last read a PG story no steam AT ALL.
I would not class this as a romance Kate was hired by Janey Michael's sister to organise his house after his divorce everywhere is a mess.
The time period in the story is about six weeks were they get to know each other after their disaster of a first meeting and how Michael changes with each appointment and I loved how everyone took care of Kate when she was ill, it took them long enough to kiss and admit their feelings which was at 94% see what I mean when I say not a romance.
I felt the last chapter was rushed the ending came to quick for me I would of like more time with them as a couple besides Harry Potter I can't remember when I last read a PG story no steam AT ALL.
November 29, 2020
Piemērota lasāmviela šim laikam.
Galvenā varone ir kaut kas līdzīgs mūsu Danai ar kasti - viņa palīdz cilvēkiem organizēt kārtību viņu pašu mājās. Un galvenais varonis ir britu Grinčs, kuram vieglāk ieaugt vecos krāmos nekā mazliet sakārtot savu galvu un māju.
Kā jau lielākā daļa šo Ziemassvētku stāstiņu - mīļi un ļoti paredzami.
Galvenā varone ir kaut kas līdzīgs mūsu Danai ar kasti - viņa palīdz cilvēkiem organizēt kārtību viņu pašu mājās. Un galvenais varonis ir britu Grinčs, kuram vieglāk ieaugt vecos krāmos nekā mazliet sakārtot savu galvu un māju.
Kā jau lielākā daļa šo Ziemassvētku stāstiņu - mīļi un ļoti paredzami.
October 28, 2020
I just loved it!
I did not know that I had a Maxine Morrey book on my shelves that I hadn't read. And so, when I was sick of The Vine Witch, and stopped in between to peruse my shelves to find something, anything better than the romance in that, I started this.
And I loved it!
This was just perfect, what with the cold season, a kinda haters-to-enemies trope, seriously good friendships, a really to-die-for brother-sister relationship, angst done perfectly; I can't praise this enough.
I also liked the hoarding, and the organising aspect of this. I really liked The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo, and though this did the decluttering in a slightly different manner, I was inspired all the same.
This was an awesome feel-good book, and I will definitely be adding more of Maxine Moreey's books to my tbr.
I loved it, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Christmas romances, feel-good novels, slow burn, well-done angst, awesome relationships other than the romance, and has read any other books by Maxine Morrey.
I did not know that I had a Maxine Morrey book on my shelves that I hadn't read. And so, when I was sick of The Vine Witch, and stopped in between to peruse my shelves to find something, anything better than the romance in that, I started this.
And I loved it!
This was just perfect, what with the cold season, a kinda haters-to-enemies trope, seriously good friendships, a really to-die-for brother-sister relationship, angst done perfectly; I can't praise this enough.
I also liked the hoarding, and the organising aspect of this. I really liked The Life-Changing Magic of Tidying Up: The Japanese Art of Decluttering and Organizing by Marie Kondo, and though this did the decluttering in a slightly different manner, I was inspired all the same.
This was an awesome feel-good book, and I will definitely be adding more of Maxine Moreey's books to my tbr.
I loved it, and I recommend it to anyone who likes Christmas romances, feel-good novels, slow burn, well-done angst, awesome relationships other than the romance, and has read any other books by Maxine Morrey.
January 28, 2017
**I received a free copy from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review**
Ok, so this book is very cute and has a great main character, I seriously loved reading about Kate! But I feel like I need to get some things off my chest about Mr. O'Farrell here, Kate's love interest.
My first impression of him was awful... I mean, the guy is super rude. And there are other things as well, especially as we get to see him more during those first encounters with Kate.
Now, maybe this is a personal thing, but I'm just not into guys who sleep around. I also can't believe him when he plays the gentleman part, like he doesn't just pick a different hot girl to warm his bed every now and then. Maybe he says he respects them and that it's mutual and whatever, but the day he finds someone he wants to actually stay with... How is it going to work? I don't know, is it just me? Am I giving it too much thought? To me this guy doesn't care about women at all, he just wants satisfaction in the moment and would not be able to stay in a serious, committed relationship after leading this kind of life. I don't think it's that easy.
Again, maybe this is a personal thing. But hey, I'm my own person, and this is my opinion.
And honey, most of us have had our hearts broken, no need to blame everyone for it, it happens. From the very beginning we come to understand that his ex-wife had a bad personality and that she was very shallow, but I think that he "fell in love" with her because she was incredibly gorgeous, everyone around him told him how she was not good for him, but he was just blinded by her hotness, at least that's how I see it.
Oh, and let's not forget about his temper...
Anyway, let's just get back to Kate, she's the one worth talking about.
Kate is just incredibly nice and sweet, she works really hard and even volunteers at this animal shelter, I mean, come on! She's too good for you, Mr. O'Farrell, I'm sorry. You and those lost thongs under your bed can go now. And yes, Kate has a crappy boyfriend and their relationship is awful, but that doesn't make you any better.
I also loved what she did for a living, even though it seemed like she just makes the place of a client more tidy and clean, in the end it can be so much more than that. She helped Michael have a real home, one where he could have his family over for Christmas.
And I liked her even more once we find out about her past, it's amazing she grew up to be this incredible accomplished woman and that she's so nice and friendly.
I guess I can say that I'm happy for Kate, even if she found happiness with Michael, she deserves whatever she wants in life.
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
Ok, so this book is very cute and has a great main character, I seriously loved reading about Kate! But I feel like I need to get some things off my chest about Mr. O'Farrell here, Kate's love interest.
My first impression of him was awful... I mean, the guy is super rude. And there are other things as well, especially as we get to see him more during those first encounters with Kate.
Now, maybe this is a personal thing, but I'm just not into guys who sleep around. I also can't believe him when he plays the gentleman part, like he doesn't just pick a different hot girl to warm his bed every now and then. Maybe he says he respects them and that it's mutual and whatever, but the day he finds someone he wants to actually stay with... How is it going to work? I don't know, is it just me? Am I giving it too much thought? To me this guy doesn't care about women at all, he just wants satisfaction in the moment and would not be able to stay in a serious, committed relationship after leading this kind of life. I don't think it's that easy.
Again, maybe this is a personal thing. But hey, I'm my own person, and this is my opinion.
And honey, most of us have had our hearts broken, no need to blame everyone for it, it happens. From the very beginning we come to understand that his ex-wife had a bad personality and that she was very shallow, but I think that he "fell in love" with her because she was incredibly gorgeous, everyone around him told him how she was not good for him, but he was just blinded by her hotness, at least that's how I see it.
Oh, and let's not forget about his temper...
Anyway, let's just get back to Kate, she's the one worth talking about.
Kate is just incredibly nice and sweet, she works really hard and even volunteers at this animal shelter, I mean, come on! She's too good for you, Mr. O'Farrell, I'm sorry. You and those lost thongs under your bed can go now. And yes, Kate has a crappy boyfriend and their relationship is awful, but that doesn't make you any better.
I also loved what she did for a living, even though it seemed like she just makes the place of a client more tidy and clean, in the end it can be so much more than that. She helped Michael have a real home, one where he could have his family over for Christmas.
And I liked her even more once we find out about her past, it's amazing she grew up to be this incredible accomplished woman and that she's so nice and friendly.
I guess I can say that I'm happy for Kate, even if she found happiness with Michael, she deserves whatever she wants in life.
More reviews on my blog: Lipstick and Mocha
January 10, 2018
Perfect
Christmas wouldn't be the same without a cheesy chick-lit, this one did it for me, I didn't want it to end. The characters are perfect and the story is carefully written, please make another festive read next year! :)
Christmas wouldn't be the same without a cheesy chick-lit, this one did it for me, I didn't want it to end. The characters are perfect and the story is carefully written, please make another festive read next year! :)
November 19, 2022
Maybe my favorite fluffy Christmas romance so far this year—and I've been on quite the binge! Lots of predictable misunderstandings but I always expect that from this genre. The London setting, banter, and couple chemistry were all really cute. Just a smattering of mild and mostly British language, that I can remember, and no bedroom scenes (there are references and implications though).
December 19, 2022
2.5 stars
This book was fine but nothing special. The characters were likeable enough but kinda forgettable. Also for a Christmas book, there was not nearly enough Christmas in this book. It's more like a romance that happens to take place near Christmas and they hardly even mention Christmas until the last like 20% of the book.
This book was fine but nothing special. The characters were likeable enough but kinda forgettable. Also for a Christmas book, there was not nearly enough Christmas in this book. It's more like a romance that happens to take place near Christmas and they hardly even mention Christmas until the last like 20% of the book.
December 15, 2017
I loved this book. It was predictable and formulaic but I think that’s what I was looking for just now. Great first Christmas book of the year for me. I really fell for the characters and just thought it was great.
December 5, 2016
The best thing about The Christmas Project is its cover. Which is not to say that The Christmas Project is a bad book. It is just extremely predictable. Usually, when reading books of this genre, I expect the predictability. Want it even. I find it comforting to know that at the end of a bunch of cheesy but cute awkward situations there will be a happy ending.
Unfortunately, Maxine Morrey took it a little too far. Right from the start, the writing seemed a bit forced and everything in this book's plot was so ridiculously transparent. Girl with sad past and low self esteem? Check. Hottest guy in the universe? Check. Who is her best friend's big brother? Check. Hate to love relationship? Check. Cute children who keep making innocent remarks about them getting married? Check. Adorable dogs thrown in for good measure? Check. Basically, you name the cliché, The Christmas Project has it. It's like Maxine Morrey googled romantic clichés and stuffed everything she could find into this book. If that's what you're looking for, then great. If not, find something else. Lots of fish in the sea and all that.
Unfortunately, Maxine Morrey took it a little too far. Right from the start, the writing seemed a bit forced and everything in this book's plot was so ridiculously transparent. Girl with sad past and low self esteem? Check. Hottest guy in the universe? Check. Who is her best friend's big brother? Check. Hate to love relationship? Check. Cute children who keep making innocent remarks about them getting married? Check. Adorable dogs thrown in for good measure? Check. Basically, you name the cliché, The Christmas Project has it. It's like Maxine Morrey googled romantic clichés and stuffed everything she could find into this book. If that's what you're looking for, then great. If not, find something else. Lots of fish in the sea and all that.
November 14, 2016
I loved last years festive treat from Maxine Morrey, but boy did she deliver this year!. This has to be so far my favorite Christmas read. I loved, loved, loved it.
In The Christmas Project we meet Kate Stone, Professional organiser. As a favour for her best friend Janey, she has agreed to declutter her brothers house in time for Christmas. Since Michael O'Farrell's girlfriend left him, he has left things go and the house is a bit of a mess. Initial meeting doesnt go well after he is late for the appointment and leaves Kate stood on his door step in the freezing cold for an hour, things dont exactly get off to a great start. Kate cant help but say what she thinks to Michael and although he is a client, he takes it on the chin. As Kate sets about arranging his home, and working through the rooms in the house, she starts to warm to Michael and decides he isnt that bad after all. The banter this couple share will have you laughing until it hurts and the story captivates you from the start, its a case of wanting to get to the end to see how things pan out. Although the romance side of things is a slow burner, the lead up will warm your heart.
With a great mix of other charactors, this makes The Christmas Project an outstanding read for the festive season. With a few cute animals, loving family and some visitors of the past, this makes one fun, fiesty read. I promise you will not be disappointed.
In The Christmas Project we meet Kate Stone, Professional organiser. As a favour for her best friend Janey, she has agreed to declutter her brothers house in time for Christmas. Since Michael O'Farrell's girlfriend left him, he has left things go and the house is a bit of a mess. Initial meeting doesnt go well after he is late for the appointment and leaves Kate stood on his door step in the freezing cold for an hour, things dont exactly get off to a great start. Kate cant help but say what she thinks to Michael and although he is a client, he takes it on the chin. As Kate sets about arranging his home, and working through the rooms in the house, she starts to warm to Michael and decides he isnt that bad after all. The banter this couple share will have you laughing until it hurts and the story captivates you from the start, its a case of wanting to get to the end to see how things pan out. Although the romance side of things is a slow burner, the lead up will warm your heart.
With a great mix of other charactors, this makes The Christmas Project an outstanding read for the festive season. With a few cute animals, loving family and some visitors of the past, this makes one fun, fiesty read. I promise you will not be disappointed.
November 3, 2022
I think I've outgrown Christmas stories that are nothing more than contrived romances. Give a story first, then build it around the holidays. Blech
November 20, 2020
The Christmas Project is a light hearted romance set in North London during December. Kate is a house doctor and is set up by her friend to declutter her brother Michael's home in time for Christmas.
There's definite friction between the two of them but it's obvious from the blurb of the book what will happen. Just enjoy the read which includes a trip to Covent Garden and a dog rescue.
There's definite friction between the two of them but it's obvious from the blurb of the book what will happen. Just enjoy the read which includes a trip to Covent Garden and a dog rescue.
December 17, 2024
No brain power needed for this Xmas romance. Gorgeous career woman with an organisation business has the client from hell. The Hot Grinch. Of course, since Katie's successful professionally, her personal life is in tatters. Cue a whole lot of miscommunication, leaving Santa's elves (nothing sadder than dogs without homes) the tough task of bringing these idiots together.
December 20, 2017
Bought this for .99 and decided to start reading it last night.......hours later, I'm finished. This was the perfect piece of holiday fluff to clear my brain after the depressing novel "American War" that I just finished.
Christmas Project is about Kate, a lonely professional organizer who decides to take on a reluctant client + a rush assignment because his sister, her friend, asks her to. The client turns out to be ultra handsome architect Michael, who is a bit gruff and broken hearted after being ditched by his wife. The story is 100% predictable but it's also sweet and moves along quickly as these two get to know each other as they sort through all the junk in his house.
If you enjoy a wholesome romance this is totally worth the .99 investment as a holiday book.
Christmas Project is about Kate, a lonely professional organizer who decides to take on a reluctant client + a rush assignment because his sister, her friend, asks her to. The client turns out to be ultra handsome architect Michael, who is a bit gruff and broken hearted after being ditched by his wife. The story is 100% predictable but it's also sweet and moves along quickly as these two get to know each other as they sort through all the junk in his house.
If you enjoy a wholesome romance this is totally worth the .99 investment as a holiday book.
December 19, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25/5
This was December’s Book Club Read!! And boy was I so glad! We initially picked another book and then this book was on sale so we all bought it and someone suggested we read it instead for the holiday szn!
You probably don’t know this but I recently moved from UK to Philippines. I was born in Philippines but raised in the UK and we wanted to explore the culture before we settled down and have kids. Anyway! The reason why I mention this js I am very homesick! Especially it being Christmas season. I am a Christmas lover through and through and as much I love Christmas in the Philippines, nothing beats a freezing cold Christmas in the south of England.
So that is one of the main reasons why I really enjoyed this book. It literally makes you feel like you’re in London during Christmas time. Though very exaggerated but still the same effect.
Now the relationship was alright, I was a bit annoyed at times and it was a SLOW BURN and I wasn’t sure why there so many twists in the end when it was 80%+ but it had a nice ending regardless and I did enjoy the tension between them.
I have rated this high purely because of the Christmas spirit and the Pilot (the dog).
Would recommend this read as it’s very festive and cute.
This was December’s Book Club Read!! And boy was I so glad! We initially picked another book and then this book was on sale so we all bought it and someone suggested we read it instead for the holiday szn!
You probably don’t know this but I recently moved from UK to Philippines. I was born in Philippines but raised in the UK and we wanted to explore the culture before we settled down and have kids. Anyway! The reason why I mention this js I am very homesick! Especially it being Christmas season. I am a Christmas lover through and through and as much I love Christmas in the Philippines, nothing beats a freezing cold Christmas in the south of England.
So that is one of the main reasons why I really enjoyed this book. It literally makes you feel like you’re in London during Christmas time. Though very exaggerated but still the same effect.
Now the relationship was alright, I was a bit annoyed at times and it was a SLOW BURN and I wasn’t sure why there so many twists in the end when it was 80%+ but it had a nice ending regardless and I did enjoy the tension between them.
I have rated this high purely because of the Christmas spirit and the Pilot (the dog).
Would recommend this read as it’s very festive and cute.
June 26, 2020
I love the way Maxine writes her characters especially the men.
I love that the book is filled with conversations between characters; their getting to know stage.
I flew through the pages of this book & I didn't want it to end.
Uhhhh...my heart broke of Kate & goosshh I love Michael. So sweet.
All the tension, the emotion was well tied up. There is no unnecessary conflict just to create drama.
The story flowede very well for me.
I love that the book is filled with conversations between characters; their getting to know stage.
I flew through the pages of this book & I didn't want it to end.
Uhhhh...my heart broke of Kate & goosshh I love Michael. So sweet.
All the tension, the emotion was well tied up. There is no unnecessary conflict just to create drama.
The story flowede very well for me.
December 17, 2018
Awww...this was so cute and sweet! I read at least one Christmas book every year in December. The Christmas Project started a bit slow, but it does pick up eventually. If you are looking for a cute, relatively clean rom-com for the holidays, you can't go wrong with this one. It's like a Hallmark movie in a book.
January 27, 2018
I enjoyed this one so much that I actually pulled an all-nighter to finish it. So charming and full of great banter. Now to find another novel by Morrey. I think I'm really going to enjoy her books.
November 9, 2019
Interesting job and both characters were likeable. Am also a bit annoyed when one of them is playing blind
January 9, 2018
4.5/5
"'My name is Kate Stone.' The name didn't seem to spark any recognition. 'You had an appointment with me for six o'clock this evening.'
He lifted his hand and wiggled his wrist a little until a watch face peeked out enough from his sleeve to see the time.
'It's gone seven.'
'Yes. It is.'
'So why are you still here?'
This is exactly why I hated doing favours for friends."
Really cute, clean, adorable holiday romance set in London. Perfect for fans of Mr. Rochester :)
"'My name is Kate Stone.' The name didn't seem to spark any recognition. 'You had an appointment with me for six o'clock this evening.'
He lifted his hand and wiggled his wrist a little until a watch face peeked out enough from his sleeve to see the time.
'It's gone seven.'
'Yes. It is.'
'So why are you still here?'
This is exactly why I hated doing favours for friends."
Really cute, clean, adorable holiday romance set in London. Perfect for fans of Mr. Rochester :)
November 10, 2016
The Christmas Project is full of fun and giggles. There are a couple of images that I think will stay with me a long time, including a scene that had "thong" and "The Hungry Caterpillar" in the same sentence, which I think you will agree doesn't happen that often.
I loved Kate and Michael's banter between them. They start off hating each other, but accepting that as a favour to Janey (Kate's best friend, and Michael's sister) that Kate has a job to do whether Michael likes it or not. Their attitudes towards each other as the job progresses slowly mellow into what could potentially be described as friends.
They clearly start to care for each other, but equally one or other of them seems to have a permanent foot in their mouth for the amount of words said to the other, that really is very amusing. Kate loses her professional cool, and Michael just can't quite say what his brain is thinking.
I loved Janey too, she holds both Kate and Michael together very well, and is a great all around support character, with her family. It is clear she loves both of them a lot, so its no wonder that it was her idea to get Kate to work her magic on Michael's house.
For Kate is an expert house organiser, or declutterer sort of person and is determined to transform Michael's life in time for him to be able to host a family Christmas. She also helps out in an animal shelter at the weekends, and there is one particular dog that you need to keep an eye out for. He is gorgeous.
If you are looking for a fun book to read in the run up to Christmas, then The Christmas Project is a very good choice. It is full of humour, and all around good feelings. The story is written in an easy to read way, and I always looked forward to picking up my kindle for the next bit of the story.
Thank you so much to HQ Digital and Netgalley for this copy of the book. This was my honest opinion.
November 30, 2025
I was introduced to The Christmas Project a few years back, I didn't know what to expect so went in blind but it became one of my favourite Christmas Romance reads 🎄.
Kate Stone runs a successful business in helping people declutter their homes. She adores her job almost all the time. But this Christmas she has agreed to help out her friends brother in organising his house as its his turn to host and from day one Kate knows he's going to be a handful. His reluctant and reserved attitude is the least of her worries though, Janey never mentioned how tall, dark, rugged and handsome Michael was. Not that it matters, she never mixes business with pleasure, and she has already butted heads with him on their first meet. She will not fall for her BFB/client..NOPE.
Michael O'Farrell has had a rough few years, after his wife left him he has thrown himself into work and not stopped to do anything else, not even look after the gorgeous home he lives in. This year however, he is hosting Chrsitmas for his family and even though he has become a constant loner and workaholic, he adores his family and wants to make them happy so he agrees to letting Kate come into his home and sort things out. He didn't intend to be blown away by this independent, stunning woman who his sister loves. He needs to keep himself in check, the last thing he wants is to catch feelings for Kate, but it's so hard to resist when they are about to spend ALOT of time alone together.
Well, as many will know I love this book so all I can say is please go give it a read. Maxine Morrey is one incredible writer and I have loved everything I have read of hers. Michael is a Irish charmer when he isn't in a foul mood but what I love is that Kate won't hesitate to put him in his place. They really were a perfect match and watching their relationship grow was beautiful ❤❤
Kate Stone runs a successful business in helping people declutter their homes. She adores her job almost all the time. But this Christmas she has agreed to help out her friends brother in organising his house as its his turn to host and from day one Kate knows he's going to be a handful. His reluctant and reserved attitude is the least of her worries though, Janey never mentioned how tall, dark, rugged and handsome Michael was. Not that it matters, she never mixes business with pleasure, and she has already butted heads with him on their first meet. She will not fall for her BFB/client..NOPE.
Michael O'Farrell has had a rough few years, after his wife left him he has thrown himself into work and not stopped to do anything else, not even look after the gorgeous home he lives in. This year however, he is hosting Chrsitmas for his family and even though he has become a constant loner and workaholic, he adores his family and wants to make them happy so he agrees to letting Kate come into his home and sort things out. He didn't intend to be blown away by this independent, stunning woman who his sister loves. He needs to keep himself in check, the last thing he wants is to catch feelings for Kate, but it's so hard to resist when they are about to spend ALOT of time alone together.
Well, as many will know I love this book so all I can say is please go give it a read. Maxine Morrey is one incredible writer and I have loved everything I have read of hers. Michael is a Irish charmer when he isn't in a foul mood but what I love is that Kate won't hesitate to put him in his place. They really were a perfect match and watching their relationship grow was beautiful ❤❤
November 15, 2016
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I found the cover to be super adorable. I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest/unbiased opinion.
I was a bit lost on this one. The chemistry didn’t seem there and it reads as if its supposed to be funny. I don’t know if its cause I’m american but the humor went over my head. And I found that Christmas didn’t really play as big a role as I expected, like it wasn’t emphasized except as a deadline.
It took a LONG time to get to the point and I found myself losing interest towards the middle when the story stagnated for me. Maybe I’m an impatient reader, but there wasn’t enough good bits to last me through the blah ones. I couldn’t picture them as a match, and I tried real hard but their snarky banter didn’t read as foreplay to me. It felt more like they should have had a fling but I didn’t see their relationship lasting . Am I making sense?
I did love the dialogue. They didn’t beat around the bush and just went for it. Brutal honesty mixed with a touch of chagrin made me want to finish the book. IDK, maybe I was expecting more in the romance department. Maybe I just didn’t get the romantic undertones right.
I did love the supporting characters to no end. They brought some great comic relief just when my attention would start to wane. All in all it as decent book. I would definitely give this author another try as I loved to see how their writing progressed as they continue to do it.
I found the cover to be super adorable. I received this ebook from Netgalley in exchange for an honest/unbiased opinion.
I was a bit lost on this one. The chemistry didn’t seem there and it reads as if its supposed to be funny. I don’t know if its cause I’m american but the humor went over my head. And I found that Christmas didn’t really play as big a role as I expected, like it wasn’t emphasized except as a deadline.
It took a LONG time to get to the point and I found myself losing interest towards the middle when the story stagnated for me. Maybe I’m an impatient reader, but there wasn’t enough good bits to last me through the blah ones. I couldn’t picture them as a match, and I tried real hard but their snarky banter didn’t read as foreplay to me. It felt more like they should have had a fling but I didn’t see their relationship lasting . Am I making sense?
I did love the dialogue. They didn’t beat around the bush and just went for it. Brutal honesty mixed with a touch of chagrin made me want to finish the book. IDK, maybe I was expecting more in the romance department. Maybe I just didn’t get the romantic undertones right.
I did love the supporting characters to no end. They brought some great comic relief just when my attention would start to wane. All in all it as decent book. I would definitely give this author another try as I loved to see how their writing progressed as they continue to do it.
November 30, 2016
“There was a gorgeous man, a lovely dog, a comfy bed and bacon sarnies. If Heaven doesn’t contain those things, then frankly I was far less keen to go.”
Every year around this time, I am in search of a fun chick lit read about Christmas romances. What is there not to love about both, and in the hectic pace of this time of year, one is always in need of light escapism. With just the right balance of fun, wit and a sprinkling of ‘warm fuzzies’, this Maxine Morrey book delivered the goods. My first sample of her writing and sure not to be my last. I loved this book.
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
Every year around this time, I am in search of a fun chick lit read about Christmas romances. What is there not to love about both, and in the hectic pace of this time of year, one is always in need of light escapism. With just the right balance of fun, wit and a sprinkling of ‘warm fuzzies’, this Maxine Morrey book delivered the goods. My first sample of her writing and sure not to be my last. I loved this book.
Full review at:
http://greatreadsandtealeaves.blogspo...
December 28, 2019
5 very sparkling 🌟. I swallowed this book in two days. This book and this story is my kind of read. It’s a light, flowing, wonderful, and a heart warming story. I like that it doesn’t drag, there’s constant interaction between the characters and an equal amount of dialog and reflection. But most importantly, it is FUNNY! I’ve laughed reading before but not like this. At a few points, I had to put the reader down and actually give myself time to laugh out loud for a bit. I think I’ll be reading more from this author, I hope she won’t disappoint.
December 22, 2024
The Christmas Project is a lighthearted Christmas romance that is sure to leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
I cannot believe it has taken me this long to read one of Maxine’s holiday romances. She is one of my go-to comfort authors, and I always, and I mean always, adore her male main characters. They tend to be some of my favourite book boyfriends. The Christmas Project was exactly what I expected it would be. It is an easy, soft romance with a lot of charm. It is just a beautifully written story that leaves you feeling like you are being wrapped in a cozy blanket. For those bookworms who don’t want to read something that is overwhelming Christmas-y, this book is going to be for you. The book is set during the holiday season, and Kate and Michael’s decluttering job needs to be done for Christmas day, but you aren’t being bombarded with Christmas shenanigans. The spirit of Christmas is lightly sprinkled throughout the story.
I enjoyed the story and its characters. Kate and Michael have this fabulous grumpy sunshine tropey feel to their interactions. Kate is a fixer and loves helping people. She is kind and smart and doesn’t take any BS from Michael. But underneath that sunshine personality is a person who feels alone in the world. She has a crappy boyfriend and no family to spend the holidays with. She is lonely and hides that loneliness by helping those around her. Michael is dealing with some emotional baggage from a bad divorce. He comes across as a prickly man and wants nothing to do with Kate. The only reason why he agreed to have Kate help clean his house was because he knew it would make his family happy. Watching these two characters work together was fun, swoony, and heartbreaking in a way. As they spend more and more time together, they realize that they both see through those facades they created, which leads to moments of heightened emotions, often leading to big blow-ups. Their journey is rocky at times, but that is to be expected when you have two characters dealing with real and big, messy emotions.
I love a good grumpy sunshine romance, and when those two characters find themselves forced to work together in a small space, it is even better. Kate and Michael constantly kept each other on their toes. I loved the banter between them. It went from this friendly, teasing banter to sharp, prickly in the blink of an eye. If you are new to Maxine’s books, then you should know she writes clean closed-door romances. The two characters kiss and hug on the page, and that’s it. But don’t think that because this is a closed-door romance, it lessens the chemistry between Kate and Michael. There are still plenty of moments that had me feeling those butterflies in my stomach and had my heart pitter-pattering faster.
The Christmas Project is an uplifting romance that is oh-so-satisfying to read on a cold winter’s night.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
I cannot believe it has taken me this long to read one of Maxine’s holiday romances. She is one of my go-to comfort authors, and I always, and I mean always, adore her male main characters. They tend to be some of my favourite book boyfriends. The Christmas Project was exactly what I expected it would be. It is an easy, soft romance with a lot of charm. It is just a beautifully written story that leaves you feeling like you are being wrapped in a cozy blanket. For those bookworms who don’t want to read something that is overwhelming Christmas-y, this book is going to be for you. The book is set during the holiday season, and Kate and Michael’s decluttering job needs to be done for Christmas day, but you aren’t being bombarded with Christmas shenanigans. The spirit of Christmas is lightly sprinkled throughout the story.
I enjoyed the story and its characters. Kate and Michael have this fabulous grumpy sunshine tropey feel to their interactions. Kate is a fixer and loves helping people. She is kind and smart and doesn’t take any BS from Michael. But underneath that sunshine personality is a person who feels alone in the world. She has a crappy boyfriend and no family to spend the holidays with. She is lonely and hides that loneliness by helping those around her. Michael is dealing with some emotional baggage from a bad divorce. He comes across as a prickly man and wants nothing to do with Kate. The only reason why he agreed to have Kate help clean his house was because he knew it would make his family happy. Watching these two characters work together was fun, swoony, and heartbreaking in a way. As they spend more and more time together, they realize that they both see through those facades they created, which leads to moments of heightened emotions, often leading to big blow-ups. Their journey is rocky at times, but that is to be expected when you have two characters dealing with real and big, messy emotions.
I love a good grumpy sunshine romance, and when those two characters find themselves forced to work together in a small space, it is even better. Kate and Michael constantly kept each other on their toes. I loved the banter between them. It went from this friendly, teasing banter to sharp, prickly in the blink of an eye. If you are new to Maxine’s books, then you should know she writes clean closed-door romances. The two characters kiss and hug on the page, and that’s it. But don’t think that because this is a closed-door romance, it lessens the chemistry between Kate and Michael. There are still plenty of moments that had me feeling those butterflies in my stomach and had my heart pitter-pattering faster.
The Christmas Project is an uplifting romance that is oh-so-satisfying to read on a cold winter’s night.
Click on the link to read more of our reviews on our blog: https://romancebythebook.com/book-rev...
November 14, 2016
Originally posted on Dreaming With Open Eyes
I kindly received The Christmas Project in exchange of an honest review by the publisher.
Rating = 3.75
It’s only November yet and all the Christmas books are show up in the review pile again. Has it been a year already? I heard a lot about Maxine Morrey in the past so I was totally excited when I was conteacted by the publisher to read The Christmas Project for publication date. How can you saw no to review a book when it has such a stunning cover as The Christmas Project? Right, you can't.
The Christmas Project is about Kate Stone, a arofessional organiser who gets asked by her best friend Janey to help her brother to organise his home to have it prepared and homely by Christmas. Since his wife left him two years ago the house has been a chaos. This is where Kate meets her new client Michael O'Farrell. It seems like he needs to declutter his house as much as his heart. Annoying, birstly, arrogant and rude that was Kate's first impression when she met Michael. So you can imagine things don't exactly get off to very well from the start. Although Kate agreed to help Michael to get the house ready for the Christmas celebrations. It seems a bit of an impossible task for both of them but everyone knows that at Christmas anything can happen ...
I have to be honest with a few things. In the beginning I struggled to warm up to the story. I slowly warmed up to it and decided it isn't so bad after all. The Christmas Project is defintely a "getting into the holiday spirit" type of read.
The banter between Kate and Michael at the start was fun. Being forced together most of the time really allowed them to work out the differences from the past and they could actually talk with honesty. I would have loved to read more about Kates actual work. I'm sure organising a home does involve more than throughing things away and back everything in boxes and bring them to charity. Even I struggeled in the beginning, the story has grown on me and I enjoyed it in the end. I was rooting for Kate to make the right decisions to finally be happy. Also the side characters as Janey made the story special to me. I loved how much she cared and looked after Kate when no one else did.
Maxine Morrey created a lovely and magical Christmas read which should be on your to be read pile this Christmas.
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