A review by lezreadalot
A Family for Christmas by Jay Northcote

3.0

Zac had never imagined having a long-term relationship. A partner, a family. But now the idea of a future like that was sliding into focus, tangible and full of possibilities. It seemed like a risk worth taking.

  
3.5 stars. It takes a bit of suspension of belief to buy into the main thrust of this novella (that a prickly, closed off individual agrees to spend Christmas with his co-worker's family, a man he barely even knows) but if you're able to do that, there's a really sweet story and romance behind it.  

And I mean, suspending my belief did take me a bit. The author did an excellent job of establishing our main characters, so much so that I really couldn't see how a private person like Zac would agree to something like this. It was niggling at the back of my mind throughout almost the entire book. But thankfully, even though this is a holiday romance and most of it takes place a little before, during, and after Christmas, the character development and interaction were enough for me to really get into the chemistry of the characters and their romance.  

Even though most of this takes place in a short period of time, the author still manages to create a sense of time and distance. It doesn't feel rushed or insta-lovey. We have Rudy with his intense crush, tempered by Zac and his reluctance to let people in. I loved the reveal of his backstory, and the reasons behind his attitudes. The family dynamics in this were really cute, and the way the whole situation just sort of melted Zac's defences. Meet the family situations, fake dating and opposites-attract dynamics are always really enjoyable for me, and this was no exception.  

Also, there were some adorable cat moments.  

Entertaining, wholesome, sweet.  A solid Christmas novella.