This book just lacked. The whole time I felt as if it was something that could’ve been posted on wattpad by a seventeen year old. The characters both felt immature, and there was no real character development as the story went on. I had such high hopes for this book, and it definitely fell short

This was basically Taylor Swift fanfiction, about her media troubles before her Reputation era. It was fun and cute, but for a romance, there was hardly any romance. It was mostly about fame, drama, and the struggles of being in the public eye. I wanted more love story.
🎤
My rating: ⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶️
🎤
Read if you like:
▫️she’s a pop star
▫️he’s her high school love
▫️dual timeline
▫️small town

Thank you Netgalley and Parson Press for the EArc in return for an honest review.

Actress turned singer Aspen return home to escape a scandal involving her in LA.
Coming back to her hometown means digging up the past, once again with Roman. The love of her life that she left to pursue her career.

I wanted to read this book because I'm a Swiftie and Tis the Damn Season is my favorite song. The hurdles that both Aspen and Roman faced were told in detail and the story wrapped up well.

I think I set my expectations too high for this book mainly because its title references one of my favorite Taylor Swift songs.

The reality is this book is bad. Like really bad.

It reads like something I would have posted on Wattpad at fourteen years old… because that’s kind of what it is. In the acknowledgments, the author admits that she was just shy of fifteen when she wrote this story. And I mean, props to her for getting published at such a young age, but maybe she should have stuck to what she knows instead of trying to write characters in their mid-twenties that end up feeling incredibly immature and two-dimensional.

Old flames reunited for the holidays. Aspen is at the height of her career at just 23 - she’s a Hollywood starlet and successful singer. But when she’s caught up in a tabloid scandal, she escapes back to her small Pennsylvania hometown for a quiet holiday season with family. While home, she’s recruited to produce the town’s children’s Christmas play with her friend and former high school love, Roman. Told through multiple timelines (then and now) we learn how they came to be, what drove them apart, and how this holiday reunion may be just what Aspen’s image - and heart - need.
I really wanted to love this (after all-it’s named for a Taylor Swift song with plenty of song references throughout!) but I found Aspen pretty unlikable at times and it made it hard to root for her through much of the story…she often came off as a “woe is me” bratty attitude before & after. Again-this is just my opinion but it didn’t bring the holiday vibes I hoped for.
Thank you to Parson Press for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest (and very delayed) review.

These types of books always make me feel so cozy and warm inside. It was such a cute cute cute read!! I enjoyed the writing as well as the characters who were likeable and relatable! The plot was interesting enough as well and kept me interested enough throughout the whole book.

I don't remember requesting this book or seeing it in my list last year. I haven't read it and looking at the reviews it's not something I would likely be interested in.

This was a very cute and very quick read. It reads more like a YA romance than a contemporary one despite the main characters being in their 20s. I didn't mind that aspect but some readers may not enjoy it.

I love the short chapters and the dual timelines. The story itself was sweet and overall I enjoyed this one.

I sincerely appreciate the author and NetGalley for the review copy.

- Celebrity FMC
- Second Chance Romance
- Forced Proximity
- Dual Timeline

I went into this thinking it was going to be a lighthearted cutesy read, but thinking more about it I don’t think I can really classify this as that. Maybe the second chance romance aspect could be classified as that, but the scandal and victim blaming that Aspen is dealing with is not. I didn’t necessarily dislike this book, but I am not sure I will be recommending this one to friends either.

★★★★☆

This book nails the nostalgia and heartbreak of revisiting a first love. Inspired by Taylor Swift’s song, ''Tis the Damn Season' brings us Aspen Moore, a Hollywood starlet whose return home leads to a whirlwind reunion with her small-town love, Roman. Past and present are beautifully woven, making each moment bittersweet and addictive. While the push-and-pull tension elevates the story, and Aspen and Roman’s chemistry keeps it gripping.

TL;DR: A heartfelt, nostalgic holiday romance about fame, home, and the one who got away.

Wow! This is unfortunately one of the worst books I have ever read. I could not stand the characters and I didn't believe in the romance one single bit. It read very YA And it is not a YA story.

It's giving Hallmark Movie in the best way. As a big fan of the song from Taylor Swift's evermore, I had to check out this book. And it was just what I needed, cute and easy to read.

Just finished Tis The Damn Season, and it was everything I needed to get into the cozy holiday spirit! This sweet, small-town romance wraps you up in all the feels with its second-chance love story, set against a backdrop of twinkling lights and warm cups of cocoa. If you’re looking for a book that feels like a Hallmark movie but with a little more sass and spice, this is the one! Perfect for anyone who loves the magic of the holidays, a bit of small-town charm, and a love story you’ll root for. Curl up, grab a blanket, and get ready for all the holiday feels!

This gave Hallmark vibes in the best way. Sometimes both books and Hallmark movies are a little too predictable and honestly this wasn't any different but it was fun and light and something good to read between heavier books.

Another one I'd definitely recommend this holiday season! Cute cute story with parts that made me giggle and feel good. Characters were so cute

Overall, this book is a delightful read that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you cheering for the characters as they navigate the ups and downs of their relationship. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance, it’s a story that will resonate long after the last page is turned. If you're looking for a blend of laughter, tears, and genuine connection, this romance is sure to satisfy!

'Tis the Damn Season by Kimi Freeman is a great pick for readers who love heartwarming, romantic stories about second chances and celebrity life, all with a festive holiday vibe. With a hint of Taylor Swift-inspired charm, it’s the perfect feel-good read for the season!

Unfortunately i made the decision to DNF this book after multiple failed attempts to consume. I hope to pick it up again at a later time.

Kimi Freeman’s 'Tis the Damn Season delivers a holiday-themed romance with all the trimmings—small-town charm, festive cheer, and a rekindled romance. The novel follows a familiar storyline: two former lovers find themselves reunited during the holiday season, leading to a mix of nostalgia, unresolved feelings, and new possibilities.

The novel’s strength lies in its festive atmosphere and its ability to evoke the holiday spirit. Freeman’s writing captures the essence of small-town life and the joy of the season, creating a warm backdrop for the romance. The setting itself becomes a character in the story, providing a cozy and inviting environment that enhances the narrative’s appeal.

However, while the holiday charm is evident, the story sometimes feels a bit predictable. The plot follows well-trodden paths, and the development of the romance, while sweet, lacks some of the depth and surprise that could make it stand out. The central relationship is heartwarming, but it unfolds in a manner that feels familiar and safe, lacking the complexity or twist that might have made it more memorable.

Came here for the Taylor Swift inspired title - loved the nods to her discography throughout. Enpyed this book and thgouht was cute, but it felt more geared for a younger audience rather than adult romance. But ! This premise is so fun and cute and I enjoyed following the story.