This is easily a new favourite book, I had no doubts at all that a Nightmare Before Christmas inspired romance between a Prince of Christmas and Prince of Halloween would be a win for me but it overtook my expectations. All of the characters were so well written (even the ones we don't like) and the non-romance side of the plot was really strong. It was great to see Coal grow and learn from his mistakes and take more responsibility after his rash decisions in the beginning. But also seeing his friendship with Iris and his brother Kris was one of my favourite parts, the Christmassy puns were perfect. While reading this in July was great, I cannot wait to reread this at Christmas time with a hot drink and the Christmas tree up

If you're after those cute romcom feels sprinkled with holiday magic then look no further.
The Nightmare before Kissmas is an easy and enjoyable read. It delivers an exciting premise that behind all the holidays we celebrate are royal families whose job is to create joy with their holiday magic. And what holiday tale is complete without, horrendous family drama, daddy issues, a power hungry Santa plotting world domination, sexual tension between holiday princes that you can cut with a knife, forced marriage proposals, festering political drama between holidays and a secret holiday coup!
I had such fun reading this, it definitely sets up a cool world with interesting characters. The possibilities for other books and other holidays has me very excited to read the next book.

With cringe-worthy characters and writing, The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch tells a story about two princes of two different kingdoms defined by Christmas and Halloween respectively who are very attracted to each other.

Summary: Nicholas "Coal" Claus is a Prince of Christmas and doesn't have the best reputation among the Holidays. When Halloween objects to the arranged marriage between Coal and his best friend Iris for political reasons, their heir Hex Hallow, whom Coal kissed at a bar years ago, comes to Christmas under the guise of fighting for Iris' hand in marriage.

Tropes/Genres:
• fantasy
• lgbtq (gay)
• insta-lust
• christmas
• romance
• royalty

Review: This book had an interesting concept, but it wasn't pulled off well enough. The romance wasn't spectacular, and the politics was a bit messy. Between Coal and Hex, I felt way more sexual attraction than any form of romantic attraction. The politics surrounding Christmas and the other Holidays was so bad, and the conflict was resolved way too easily. Overall, it just didn't meet expectations.

The characters aren't that likeable, particularly the main two. Coal is so cringe-worthy that I don't have any excuses for him. I get that he's young, but he sounds like a child. I roll my eyes every time he opens his mouth. Hex is so questionable, considering the first time they met, he kissed Coal when the latter was blackout drunk. That's sexual assault. I don't care if Coal wanted it. He can't give informed consent when he's drunk. But hey, at least he doesn't sound like a child whenever he opens his mouth.

Anyway, the romance is severely lacking. The two of them are clearly sexually attracted to each other, but I barely feel any romantic connection between the two. Honestly, the best part of this love story is the third-act breakup. It was probably when the two of them had the most chemistry. All this couple has is a lot of sexual contact and teasing. There is barely any moment where I can safely say that they have developed their romantic bond. Romance is not just about sex. The first time I felt the love between the two of them was the breakup, which says a lot.

I suppose that out of the four major characters in the book, only Coal and Hex have issues because Kris and Iris are actually fine! I love the friendship the three of them (Coal, Kris and Iris) have. They're so supportive of each other. I think that's precious and one of the best parts of the book. They've got each other's back!

The politics in this book are so basic and poorly fleshed out, and what's worse is that the author resolved the conflict with Coal's father all in one chapter. Maybe even a few chapters. I don't know how a grand speech is supposed to change the mind of someone who's been blackmailing and threatening so many people for years, but sure. I liked how the author dived into her struggles as the incompetent and irresponsible heir, but those struggles weren't well illustrated.

Comparing this book with Red, White & Royal Blue is insulting because that book was a work of art. This book is nothing close to that. I recommend this book to readers who like the fictional world portrayed in The Nightmare Before Christmas because this book has a similar concept. The romance is a bit questionable, and the politics is a bit simple-minded, though. I would say it still has some merits because Kris, Iris and Coal's friendship is awesome.

Thank you, NetGalley, for the read.

Thank you, Penguin Randomhouse and Netgalley, for this ARC copy.

I loved this book so much. It made me laugh, it made me smile, and it made me angry. I really enjoyed the political side of the holidays in this book, and it was full of complex relationships. It was so much spicier than I expected it to be, but I really didn't mind that. My favourite thing about this though is that I mixed my two favourite holidays together.

I can't wait to read the next book now.

This book was such a magical read! I loved how Sara sets up this world where we live behind the scenes of the holiday seasons and meet the representatives for each holiday (easter, Christmas, halloween etc). That felt like such a unique world that was so easy to get into because of how familiar all the holidays were. I haven't read a book where the holidays have been personified in the same way so that was really refreshing and surprisingly easy to wrap my head around.

It felt like the magic came through the pages and there was so much attention to detail in the world building that it was a really fun start to a book. There were so many creative references (such as Nicholas being nicknamed as 'Coal') that made the book not feel overly christmassy and these subtle references also felt like it wasn't a book with lots of on the nose references to the holidays. Even the descriptions of how characters from each season dressed felt reflective of the holiday in a way that was unique and not forced.

I also enjoyed the group chat format of storytelling, it made the book feel more modern which was a nice contrast with the traditional old age-ness of the holidays and allowed us to see the perspectives of Kris and Iris without an entirely different POV. I also loved the romance subplot it felt like reading my first crush and was super adorable to see Coal stumble around his own feelings.

The only criticism I have is the pacing. The initial pacing of the set up was good but it felt like it slowed down so much after that. Once the marriage competition begins, it felt like the plot stood still for so long and the same information was just being retold to different characters.

The romcom with the magical touch, had an enjoyable plot and likable characters, but I felt it needed a bit more romance and fewer political themes. The story was fresh and engaging, making it a solid read for anyone who enjoys romcoms and appreciates a well-elaborated world building from a good storyteller. Many thanks to the author and the publisher for the early access to this arc, I can't wait to get my own copy

Firstly thank you Sarah & Netgalley for sending me this ARC and giving me the opportunity to read this book!

Couldn't decide on 2.5 /3 stars ⭐

I was drawn to this book by its unique premise and the promise of a sweet, sexy, and delightfully messy love story set against the backdrop of various holiday icons. However, at 62%, I found myself unable to finish it. (I'm sorry!!) I found myself really trying to push through, however it wasn't the book for me. (Doesn't mean it won't be for you!)

The book's blend of romance and politics didn't quite work for me. I was hoping for more steamy romance and less intrigue, which made the story feel bogged down at times. Despite this, there were moments that shone, particularly the text interactions & heartwarming moments between Coal, Kris, and Iris as best friends. Their dynamics added a refreshing touch and some light-hearted humor to the plot.

While the holiday-themed setting was a charming idea, the execution fell short of my expectations. The political machinations and the arranged marriage plot overshadowed the potential for a more heartfelt and engaging romance. Coal's character had lots of potential, but his journey felt hampered by the convoluted storyline.

Santa being a jerk and arranged marriages - it all from the outset seemed very interesting, however I'm not sure overall if the storyline knew what it wanted to be. I think if it was advertised as a holiday fantasy, less romance - it would be more accurate.

In terms of the 'swoon worthy romance's There were definitely moments I was like 'Ah come on!', I wanted to have more depth in this department.

In the end, this book wasn't a huge hit for me. Fans of intricate plots and kingdom politics might enjoy it more though!

This book had a great plot with intriguing characters. I’ll definitely be looking out for more from this author.

The perfect holiday romcom! The Nightmare Before Kissmass mixes friendship, a coup attempt, rival princes and holiday magic to give a Christmas love story.

I love what Sara Raasch did with the world, where each holiday is run by a monarchy similarly to a company. It’s such a great concept and I can’t wait to own a physical copy of this book and read any other stories in this world. I recommend The Nightmare Before Kissmas to anyone who want a slightly different take on Christmas romances.

Summary: Coal, the Prince of Christmas, dreads the holiday's PR stunts, when an arranged marriage and a reunion with Hex, the Prince of Halloween, complicate everything.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an eARC of this book, all thoughts are my own.

I’ve always enjoyed a holiday rom-com and this book was perfection. Just the right mix of holiday nostalgia, funny banter, likeable characters and a great story

4.5☆s rounded up to 5☆s

This book was an absolute delight to read! The comp of 'Nightmare Before Christmas' meets 'RW&RB' felt extremely accurate to me as it had a similar feel to both of them. I adored the dynamic between Hex and Coal, it was mayhaps a little too instalove/lust for me, but I loved their banter and the steady development between them. I loved seeing Coal grow up throughout the course of the book and actually put into place the ideals for a Christmas hes always wanted instead of rebelling by acting out. I also loved the dybamic between Coal, his brother and Iris !!! They had such a sweet longstanding friendship and their banter made me giggle sm!!! All in all, a super fun book and Im excited to get my hands on a physical copy !!!

The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 10 October 2024

Nicholas "Coal" Claus, once enchanted by the magic of Christmas, now loathes it thanks to his father's relentless commercialisation of the holiday. Seeking solace from the suffocating cheer, he stumbles into a chance encounter with a mysterious man behind a bar. But Coal's plans for a brief escape are thwarted when he's thrust into an unwanted engagement with his childhood friend, Iris, the Easter Princess, in a strategic manoeuvre by their families.

As if his predicament wasn't complicated enough, a rival prince arrives, vying for Iris's affections, and to Coal's shock, the enigmatic man from the bar, Hex, reappears as the Prince of Halloween.

The book's fresh premise immediately drew me in with its portrayal of royal families navigating the complexities of their holiday domains. Set against the backdrop of a college campus, the story delves into the intricate power dynamics and political manoeuvring of these seasonal heirs. While the romance between Coal and Hex unfolds swiftly, its charm and allure are undeniable.

I was captivated by the vividly crafted world and the imaginative lore woven by the author. This tale blends sweetness, humour, and allure in a delightful concoction, leaving me eagerly anticipating further escapades in this enchanting universe.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Random House UK, Cornerstone, and the author, Sara Raasch, for providing me with an ARC copy in exchange for an honest and fair review.

Title: The Nightmare Before Kissmas by Sara Raasch

Release Date: October, 10th, 2024

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Nicholas "Coal" Claus, once enamoured with Christmas, now despises it due to his father's commercialisation of the holiday. Seeking an escape, he finds himself entangled in a passionate encounter with a mysterious man behind a bar. However, Coal's plans are disrupted when he's ordered to marry his best friend, Iris, the Easter Princess, as a strategic move.

Complicating matters further is the arrival of a rival prince vying for Iris's hand and the unexpected reappearance of the man from the bar, Hex, the Prince of Halloween. What ensues is a fake competition between holiday princes, fuelled by undeniable chemistry and a marriage of convenience no one desires, leading to a captivating and unforgettable love story.

The book's unique concept immediately grabbed my interest with its portrayal of royal holiday families striving to bring joy back to their realms. Set against the backdrop of a college setting, the narrative delves into the intricate politics surrounding these holiday heirs. Although the romance between Coal and Hex unfolds rather swiftly, I found it charming and compelling.

What truly stood out were the genuine friendships depicted between Coal, his brother Kris, and Iris, the Easter Princess, which added layers of depth to the story. Together, they embark on a mission to derail an unwanted arranged marriage, leading to plenty of entertaining and engrossing moments throughout the book.

I thoroughly enjoyed the overall storyline and the vibrant world crafted by the author. This story offers a delightful mix of sweetness, humour, and allure, leaving me eagerly anticipating further adventures in this captivating universe.


Thank you to The Publisher Random House UK, Cornerstone | Penguin,The Author Sara Raasch & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.