I absolutely loved this book and devoured it in one sitting! It's a perfect lighthearted but sweet read for the holiday season. Belinda Missen's writing is great and the characters are all very charming. My only issue is the abrupt ending, as I wanted to know more about what happened with these characters! Hoping for a sequel.

This is an Netgalley ARC review. All opinions are solely mine.

One Week ‘Til Christmas by Belinda Missen is an incredibly sweet book. Isobel is a strong female character still trying to find balance. Tom is the dreamboat who knocks her off her feet. Together they navigate a vacation friendship that slow burns. 

I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It is not an overly Christmas-y book. It just takes place around the holidays. The London Christmas references are getting me excited for my own festivities. 

Thank you for allowing me an advance copy of this book.

Christmas romances are fast become a favourite for me, despite the inevitable disappointment when I look out of the window and it is still dreary October and not sparkly December!
One week til Christmas is a lovely story with all the elements of a feel good story and just a hint of jeopardy.
From the very random first meeting of falling over each other to the wonderful, touristy dates they then go on each page makes you wish it was snowy, that you were in London with them (in a non-third-wheel way of course) and that it was indeed a week until Christmas!

Definitely a feel good book, definitely one to re-read just before Christmas and definitely one that requires a big mug of hot chocolate and a cosy setting to thoroughly fall into the story.

One Week 'Til Christmas is the fourth novel by Belinda Missen and it is my first introduction to her work.  Little did I know when I viewed the book cover for this novel back in September that One Week 'Til Christmas would become one of my favourite festive reads.
Isobel Bennett lives in Australia but spends most of her life travelling around the globe for her job as a travel writer.  She's visiting friends in the UK the week before Christmas but her boss has sprung a last minute assignment on to her.  With a chance to broaden her reader appeal with the company she works for she takes on the assignment with a surprising twist.  Isobel fits this assignment in alongside her festive adventures with her mystery man who she later finds out has more than his handsome looks to his name.
Belinda Missen has written such a gorgeous festive treat of a read, to me it felt like a grown up fairytale but was very real and relatable. The romance and endearment of the whole storyline charmed me and I was swept away with this chance encounter of two strangers literally bumping into each other, not once but twice, to then find themselves re-discovering the delights of the festivities together in the city of London one week until Christmas.  The whole storyline has put me in a festive mood and given me the desire to visit a winter market to savour the tastes, aromas, atmosphere and delights of a winter wonderland.  I'm so pleased I've discovered a new author and I think we all should invest our time in discovering new to us talent.

This is definitely a love story during Christmas time. It tells us how Isobel and Tom meet accidentally and fall in love surrounded by the usual Christmas ambiance.  
It is a light, easy to read book, with humor that makes us feel good.

I hardly ever read holiday themed books and I have never read one this far in advance (it's not even Halloween yet)!  But I'm here to tell you, this was a fun way to ease my way into the holiday spirit.  I'm a sucker for the average gal (or guy) meets and falls for a celebrity story.  Add traditional winter and Christmastime themes (snow and holiday markets, anyone?!) to the mix, and I'm sold.  The thing with books like these is they aren't hard to tell where they are headed and I think that's the beauty of them.  They are fun to sink into for a few hours while sipping hot cocoa.  Your life won't be changed, but guess what, you'll finish the book with a smile on your face and, if you're like me, with a little more excitement for the holiday season to come.

I loved this! 

What more could you ask for from a Christmas read! Romance ✅, london in the winter ✅, two gorgeous characters ✅ and a boat load of Christmassy food, drink and fun ✅

Isobel is a traveler, writing a column about travel and whatever takes her boss’ fancy as she jets from place to place. She’s got friends all over the world, and while the holiday is fast approaching and her family is convinced she won’t be back in Melbourne to spend Christmas and the New Year with them, she’s determined to get a bit of Christmas Cheer in during a week in London, staying at her friend’s place.  But things haven’t started off particularly well – the weather is dreadful, puddles and slush are everywhere, and a chance encounter with a dashing stranger resulted in the two of them upended into said slush, on the ground, in front of a very shocked bus driver.  Now wet, a bit concerned about the state of her electronics and still a bit to go – she arrives at Estelle’s a bit bedraggled, but ready to take on the ‘season’ with a list of places to see and markets to visit. 

Despite her being on vacation, her boss calls with a request that she step in and do a ‘last minute’ interview – playing on her repeated requests to get more ‘toothsome’ pieces – and she’s off to meet her subject, unknown with few notes.  Surprise of all surprises, her subject is the man who landed in her lap at the bus stop the night before, and no, she didn’t imagine the chemistry between them, or the fact that he is drop-dead handsome.  Despite being unprepared to ask questions that indicate she is aware of just who he is, Isobel is honest, and Tom is wonderfully accommodating as the interview flies by and ends with him asking her out for a coffee and a meal later that night. 

Throughout the story, Isobel is faced with her short time in London all while enjoying time she’s spending with Tom as they do ‘tourist’ things like skate and visit various Christmas markets. If Tom and Isobel don’t get you in the spirit of Christmas and what’s possible, as they are well-matched, talk about everything, and both seem to want that connection between them that sparks off the page and grows with each moment they spend together.  From Tom’s quiet reassurance that setting out on her own is not only something she should do, but that she COULD do it successfully, the two talk about how their travel has affected family expectations for holidays and important events, as well as providing Isobel with a few ‘tricks’ about shopping and presents for her nieces.  Not a long story by any means, the relationship, a threat to it and the growth and changes come quickly – all fitting in with the overwhelming positivity of the possibilities of the season and a huge festive hit as we travel all over for festive markets, ice rinks with decorated trees and lovely hot cocoa, mulled wines and plenty of cheer.  A lovely story that will make your heart smile with the big surprise, and leave Isobel and Tom as a couple to emulate  - particularly at Christmastime. 

I received an eArc copy of the title from the publisher via NetGalley for purpose of honest review. I was not compensated for this review: all conclusions are my own responsibility. 

Review first appeared at <a href=” https://wp.me/p3OmRo-ayO/” > <a> I am, Indeed </a>

This was a lovely Christmas morsel of goodness and put me right in the holiday spirit. I want to read more of their story and hope for a series!

Is it too early for a Christmas read? Well, I don’t think so!

This incredible book put me in an advanced Christmas spirit and I’m not complaining. I really enjoyed the special holiday vibe this book gave me.

The story was incredibly sweet and very enjoyable. I truly loved the whole point of meeting someone by accident, slowly falling in love with them, and then having to make difficult choices about career, future, and basically about life in general. These are the topics that I really like seeing more in a chick-lit book, other than focusing on the romance. I wouldn’t mind the romance, but I really like it more if it focus on other important subjects that many people can relate to.

In this story, I can say that I truly understood Isobel. I can relate to her problem having to make a difficult choice, especially when it comes to her career. I can see how unsure she was when it comes to quitting her job, and then starting her own blog. When I first started my own blog, I was worried and anxious about so many things. I had to think more about my career as a blogger, and sometimes I was still afraid I won’t make it. And to see that in Isobel feels like her character’s struggle is my own, and that’s why I can relate to her more. But Isobel is so brave and there are other people in her life that support her decision, and I truly admired that.

I loved how Isobel just go with the flow and doesn’t overthink things. Even though sometimes she was worried, she brushed it off and just enjoy her day. She just follow where life takes her to, and I liked that she wasn’t afraid to take any chances at all. Isobel is a very patient and calm woman. I also liked how she stay true to her words and always put her family first despite her desire to stay with a man who she finally fall in love with. Isobel is just an overall nice character.

On the other hand, Tom Bracken is a nice gentleman with great manners. It’s hard to find a character like him in other books. So I’m glad to meet him here. He has a way with words, he was so sweet and charming, but most importantly the way he speaks and the way he acts are what makes him more attractive, and very interesting.

Tom is a very nice man, and I loved just everything about him, except for the part near the end where he was stubborn and doesn’t want to listen to an explanation from Isobel. Seeing that side of him was quite scary, but he doesn’t usually act like that. He was amazing, and very entertaining. I loved how he explains everything about his occupation, about theatrical plays, and basically about London and his life to Isobel with great and addictive words, and very-detailed descriptions. If Tom Bracken is real, I could to listen to him talking all day, I know I wouldn’t get bored because he makes talking and explaining more enjoyable. Plus, he talks a lot about important things in life. I truly appreciate what he was saying, and I really admired his talents. I also loved to make a joke and had a great sense of humor, so that makes his character very likable. He is an overall a fun character.

Tom and Isobel’s romance was cute and sweet. Their accidental meeting was truly surprising but also funny in a way. I can already imagine the chaotic scene and I find it to be so hilarious. I seriously feel bad for laughing. But, seeing these two spending most of their times in London together and try getting to know one another was pretty sweet. Their connection was very instant, but the slow-burn romance makes it more better. At least, the author didn’t make these two jump straight into a relationship, but instead slowly build up their romance and make a proper development to their characters before putting Tom and Isobel together romantically. I really dig the slow-burn because the result will always be epic.

The romance was beautiful and so dreamy, perfect for this type of Christmassy book. The romance also helps me know Tom’s character more aside from knowing him as a well-known actor. He surely have a life outside his career as a theatrical and telly actor. Seeing his carefree side whenever he was around Isobel brought a smile to my face. At least he doesn’t have to stress himself due to his works. As for Isobel, whenever she was with Tom, she became a carefree person too. And seeing her smile a lot and be happy makes me happy too. These two helps each other’s out when it comes to making choices, and they also shared some important life advice. I loved these two, they are both very thoughtful when answering questions, both of them lived a busy life and they can understand one another’s problem.

I know all the good times they shared are too good to be true, but it was still shocking to see that a couple more chapters before the story ends, there was a little heated moment between Tom and Isobel. But of course Christmas miracle always work its way and mend the hurt. The main problem has always been about what will happen once Isobel left? But to see another problem in the picture really caught me off guard. It just create an intense tension between Tom and Isobel. The thing about leaving was another thing, and it saddens me to see Isobel so heartbroken by the fact that she couldn’t stay. I loved how the Christmas miracle is working and helped Tom and Isobel found a way to be together. It’s very predictable of course, because this type of book doesn’t end with sadness, but happiness.

Aside from Tom and Isobel’s romance, I also liked seeing the friendly-like-sisterly bond between Isobel and her friend, Estelle. These two are like sisters even though they’re friends. I really liked how they always asked each other how their days went and how their works are progressing. It shows these two really cared for one another, and it was very visible that their friendship is strong. I really liked seeing Isobel having a friend who she can talk about everything to, and how Estelle is a good listener and always be there for Isobel. These two amazing women are truly supportive of each other.

The story ended with an incredibly beautiful ending. I was satisfied by the ending, just like how I imagined it to be. I was glad that I chose to read this book, and am happy that I ended up enjoying the story. It was a story full of happiness and unforgettable moments that will remain as the best thing to ever happen in life. Having strong leads like Tom and Isobel makes the story more brilliant than it already is.

If you want to get into an early Christmas spirits, then I suggest you to pick this book up. There are lots of fun adventures you can enjoy through Tom and Isobel.

Unfortunately this one wasn’t for me. I couldn’t connect with the characters at all, wasn’t a fan of the writing, and ended up skimming it just to avoid a DNF.

I devoured this book! I was so engrossed that I read it in one afternoon.  This was the perfect way to kick off the unofficial start of the holiday season. It would be perfect to read curled up in front of a fireplace with a holiday drink. I could also see this being a great holiday movie. The characters were so engaging and I found myself rooting for them to succeed.

Utterly charming and fun. Just a delightful Christmas story. The book is well paced. I liked that there weren't 20 chapters of near-miss or silent longings, instead the couple meets by accident, meets again and jumps into spending time together. I also like how the male lead moves to quickly resolve misunderstandings and conflict. More romcom books should be like this. 

I will definitely check out the author's other books too. I like her writing style. She does a great job of describing places and people clearly and concisely. I really want to visit London in December now and go to the markets and the shops and be all festive.

As an aside, I was totally picturing Benedict Cumberbatch as Tom, and what do you know, he's mentioned in the author's acknowledgements at the end of the book.

My one small quibble to the editor is how often the female lead licks a salty tear from her upper lip in the final chapters of the book. It's gross. Maybe once would be forgettable but three times is much too repetitive. Can this please be fixed before publication? There are also several misused words that I hope are fixed. Please review: location 393, location 462, location 1054, and location 1165.

*I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher and I am required to disclose that in my review in compliance with federal law.*

I really enjoyed One Week 'Til Christmas. 

Isobel was a very likeable main character; she was funny and quirky and interesting; and it was a real pleasure to read about her.  I loved how she and Tom met, I proper laughed out loud.  I want her job, it sounds so interesting.  I loved her interactions with both Estelle, and of course, the delicious Tom - can I get one for Christmas, thanks ;)

The book was fun and executed well; the pacing was good too and it was just such a lovely comforting Christmas read - I'd definitely recommend it to others looking for a Christmas romance.

Good story although predictable, I enjoyed the vocabulary and diction although certain points too much and the paragraph felt crowded. The characters were well developed despite the short book. I also appreciated the accurate scenario of being taken advantage of in a workplace, the boss overusing and asking for too much from one employee. I don’t really enjoy when there is a lack of trust and the characters overcome that too quickly it feels disingenuous, unrealistically forgiving. Overall, if you’re looking for a predictable Christmas story with a tad bit of a twist, you’ve come to the right place!

Isobel is a travel writer who is only in London for a week before heading back to Melbourne.  Tom is a tv star.  These two were never meant to meet but then fate had him slip on some ice and land pow on her!  Of course, it wasn't until the next day (they lost some time to spend together- boo), that they meet again.  Christmas is a lovely time to be in London and Missed takes full advantage of her setting as Isobel and Tom wander and experience the city.  It's a sweet love story with good characters you will root for. Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC. This is a fast (short) read perfect for that lazy afternoon.

The perfect book to get you in the mood for Christmas! Quite a short story compared to most books which meant I got through it in a number of hours but I'm not complaining at all. I got so invested in Isobel and Tom's relationship very quickly and couldn't wait to see if they would end up together or not. A very easy read, likeable characters and I loved all of London's festive locations being included!

Isobel Bennett is a travel writer, seeming to be always on the road. She enjoys the travel and the places she visits, getting to know historic places and small town festivals. She makes friends wherever she lands. The only things she doesn't have time for are television and current movies. Her main regret - not being home for family events and holidays. She finally gets a chance to be in London at Christmas, quite the change from her home in Australia but she is determined to be home for Christmas. She starts her vacation with an accidental come together and a phone call for a last minute assignment.

Isobel and Tom's whirlwind romance is not only Hallmark Movie worthy, it is beautifully written. I love the descriptive phrasing and laugh out loud moments. I could picture myself in the scene close enough to touch. Some might say things moved too quickly but sometimes in life, when you know you've only got one shot, you need to take a leap of faith. Tastefully handled with both parties being honest about living in the moment.

This is a wonderful book from start to finish. It is a short read but definitely left me with a smile on my face.
This is super cute and Christmassy which has literally made me laugh out loud. It has romance and drama which has been perfect for a rainy afternoon read.
I have loved how charming this book is, the characters won me over from the very started and I found I was invested in them from early on. This is a book which I couldn't put down and read in one sitting. Although my first read by Missen it will definitely not be the last.
If you like a romance read and are ready for Christmas- this is an utterly perfect read. Highly recommended and worthy of five shiny stars.

Public review to follow during blog tour.

One Week 'Til Christmas by Belinda Missen is meant to be a romantic comedy.  I was fascinated by the premise.  Isobel is on holiday in London at Christmastime.  She has a meet cute with Tom, an actor, and the next day is tasked with interviewing him for her boss.  She decides to spend the remainder of her time with him enjoying the city.

I struggled with this book.  I didn't exactly understand the meeting of the two characters.  I reread it several times and still felt somewhat confused.  Perhaps that is why I didn't understand the attraction between the characters.  It was stated that they liked each other and it was clear that they wanted to spend time together, but I never felt their attraction not did I understand why they were attracted.