Is 'In A Holidaze' A Christmas-Themed Novel?

I just finished 'In a Holidaze' last week, and yes, it’s absolutely a Christmas novel—but with a twist. The story follows Mae, who gets stuck in a time loop reliving her family’s chaotic holiday trip. Picture snowy cabins, ugly sweaters, and mistletoe drama, but with a 'Groundhog Day' vibe. The author nails the festive atmosphere: crackling fires, competitive gift exchanges, and that magical tension when childhood crushes resurface. It’s not just fluff though; there’s real depth about family bonds and choosing your path. Perfect for readers who want heartwarming chaos with their eggnog.

'In a Holidaze' is 100% a Christmas novel, but it’s way more inventive than your typical holiday romance. The premise alone hooks you—Mae wakes up repeatedly on a plane heading to the same Christmas vacation, forced to confront her messy life choices. The setting is pure festive overload: think twinkling lights, stolen kisses under pine trees, and a quirky family that could rival yours in dysfunction.

What I love is how the time-loop device elevates it beyond clichés. Instead of just cozy tropes, we get hilarious fails (like Mae accidentally setting the turkey on fire... twice) and genuine growth as she learns to speak up for herself. The romance with Theo simmers slowly, with sweet moments like ice-skating under stars and shared childhood flashbacks. If you’re tired of predictable plots, this blends magic realism with holiday cheer brilliantly.

Bonus: the audiobook version nails the comedic timing, especially during Mae’s increasingly desperate attempts to break the loop. Pair it with 'The Holiday Swap' for another festive rom-com with a unique gimmick.

Christmas novel? Check. But 'In a Holidaze' is like Hallmark meets sci-fi lite. Mae’s time-loop struggle isn’t just about finding love—it’s a metaphor for holiday do-overs we all crave. Every reset cranks up the nostalgia: building snowmen with siblings, debating cookie recipes, and that moment when hometown memories hit harder than spiked cider. The romance is cute (Theo’s soft-boy energy is *chef’s kiss*), but the family dynamics steal the show—especially Mae’s mom, who’s basically the MVP of chaotic holiday energy. If you dig emotional depth with your tinsel, this delivers. For something equally heartfelt but darker, try 'Kiss Her Once for Me'.