The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss
3.5 Stars
My Review
The Twelve Dates of Christmas by Jenny Bayliss follows Kate Turner, a woman with notoriously bad luck in love who signs up for the “Twelve Dates of Christmas”—a holiday matchmaking program where she goes on twelve unique dates with twelve different men. This was my first book by Jenny Bayliss, and I absolutely loved it. Her writing style is warm, funny, and full of charm, and I found myself genuinely laughing out loud throughout the story.
One of my favorite things about this book is its structure: each chapter focuses on a different date, complete with its own activity and personality. From salsa dancing to gingerbread house decorating, every date brought something new and entertaining. I also adored the small-town setting—I’m a complete sucker for a cozy, close-knit community—and this book delivered all the small-town charm. The bakery, the coffee shop, the familiar faces… it all made the world feel so lived-in and comforting.
The side characters were a huge highlight, too. I loved her dad, her best friend Laura, and all the townspeople whose lives were woven into Kate’s everyday routines. Even her mom, who was a bit chaotic, added humor and heart to the story. I especially loved the glimpses we get into her dad’s personal life—I honestly wouldn’t mind a short novella about him and Evelyn!
The romance itself is sweet, soft, and definitely falls into second-chance territory. I didn’t love the argument scene toward the end, mostly because I felt both characters could have communicated better, but I understood Kate’s instinct to run when things got hard. Even with that, I was happy with how everything resolved.
This is a closed-door romance—no spicy scenes—which I think fit the cozy holiday tone perfectly. Between the winter setting, the twinkle-light atmosphere, the baked treats, and all the cozy coffee shop moments, this book made me want to curl up in a blanket with a hot chocolate (and maybe a slice of cake). It’s sweet, funny, festive, and full of heart.
Overall, The Twelve Dates of Christmas is a delightful Christmas read with humor, warmth, adorable small-town vibes, and a unique dating concept that keeps the story fun and engaging. I’d absolutely recommend it to anyone looking for a charming holiday romance.
“I don’t want to waste any more time, Kate,’ said Matt. ‘We’ve wasted enough already. I love you. And you bloody well love me too, I know you do. So, stop being such a stubborn arse and—’ Kate leaned over and kissed the words right out of his mouth.”
Jenny Bayliss
Other Books by the Author
Some of Jenny Bayliss’s other acclaimed works include I’ll Be Home For Christmas, A Season For Second Chances, and many more.
Literary Pairing
One Day In December by Josie Silver: Both novels are heartwarming contemporary romances set against the backdrop of the holiday season, blending festive charm with themes of love, hope, and second chances. Each story follows a woman who isn’t actively seeking love but finds herself drawn into unexpected romantic possibilities that challenge her assumptions about what she truly wants. Both books also feature strong friendships, cozy settings, and the idea that love can appear in surprising ways—often closer than the heroine initially realizes.
Shelf To Table
Chocolate Caramel Brownies: Chocolate caramel brownies are irresistibly decadent, featuring a fudgy chocolate base swirled with silky, golden caramel that melts into every bite. The top forms a glossy, crackly crust, while the center stays soft, gooey, and perfectly indulgent. Each square delivers the ultimate balance of deep cocoa flavor and buttery caramel sweetness—pure holiday comfort in dessert form.
“A bigger pool doesn’t necessarily mean a better swim.”
Jenny Bayliss