‘My New Crush Gave to Me’: Why You Should Enjoy this Festive Novel!

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No secret is made of the fact that we do all the Christmas-y things on Finding Wonderland. Whether it’s the parade of TV movies that show up here (#sorrynotsorry) or the Christmas fiction I read, there are plenty of options. The subject here is a YA Christmas novel that’s a: been on my shelf for way too long, and b: is as cute as it sounds, and today I’m sharing why you should read My New Crush Gave to Me.


why you should read my new crush gave to me

About the Book:
Author: Shani Petroff
Publisher: Swoon Reads
Source: Bought
Publication Date: 2017
Genre: Fiction; Young Adult, Contemporary
Find the Book Elsewhere: Goodreads
Find the Review Elsewhere: Goodreads
Rating: ★★★1/2

THE STORY: Charlotte ‘Charlie’ Donovan may have just broken up with her perfect boyfriend, but this isn’t stopping her from attending THE party of the season. Only trouble is, the “it” girl hosting doesn’t know Charlie doesn’t have a date – and Charlie certainly isn’t about to let on! Then, she sets her sights on the cutest boy in school, who also happens to be the quarterback. Only trouble is, Charlie needs some help in getting Teo’s attention.

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Enter, Teo’s disorganized and annoying cousin, J.D. The complete opposite of Teo, J.D. is not someone Charlie wants to hang out with, but to win the boy of her dreams – and an impression date to the Christmas ball, she’s willing to make one (or two) sacrifices. 

Why You Should Read My New Crush Gave to Me


Secret Santa

The plot is so freaking cute! Sure, we’ve seen it before, but there’s something infectious about this kind of story and the adorable way in which everything unfolds, plus who doesn’t love a fun secret Santa romance? It reminds me of movies like With Love, Christmas (Hallmark) or the appropriately titled, Secret Santa with Jennie Garth. (Which will also date how long I’ve been watching Christmas movies.)

Social Enemies Who are Maybe (?) ‘Meant to Be’

Another trope often employed in rom-coms, but really, it’s a fun one. I especially like this one because, without giving too much away, the object of one person’s affection is quite clueless throughout, and it’s fun to “see” the shift, and different feelings develop. In this way, this one has a kind of Pride & Prejudice element to the otherwise frivolous (albeit fun) story.

The Fun and Festive Romantic-Comedy Tropes

There are so many cute scenes in this book. Whether it be full-out dress up (to go out caroling) or the general “fuzzy” feeling you get with any Christmas-y story. Kind of like something that makes you want to put on those PJS, snuggle in your favorite blanket and get lost in a fun world.


Have you read this oldie release? What are your ‘why you should read My New Crush Gave to Me’? Comment all of your thoughts – or other Christmas-y recommendations, below.

‘My New Crush Gave to Me’: Why You Should Enjoy this Festive Novel! Talking why you should read My New Crush Gave to Me. #YALit #Bookworm #BookNerd Click To Tweet
‘My New Crush Gave to Me’: Why You Should Enjoy this Festive Novel! Talking why you should read My New Crush Gave to Me. Text © Rissi JC

Content: There may be one or two minor instances of profanity or an innuendo, otherwise, this one is charming and “clean.”

About Rissi JC

amateur graphic designer. confirmed bookaholic. bubbl’r enthusiast. critical thinker. miswesterner. social media coordinator. writer.

4 comments

  1. So fun! Love your reasons for why this is an enjoyable Christmas pick. :) I actually spotted this book at the Dollar Tree when Josh and I were there the other night, and I told him he could get it for my stocking, haha! So finding out that you think it’s a cute, clean read makes me really happy–and even more excited to open my stocking on Christmas Day! :D

    Hope you’re having a delightful Christmas season, friend!

    1. It’s CRAZY cute, Amber. Love it so much. Gotta’ love a great little seasonal read that makes its reader smile. Hope if Santa brings it, you enjoy. :D

      Same to you friend!! Hope your Christmas season is going well and you’re enjoying some good down time.

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