“The Plight Before Christmas” by Kate Stewart – An Audiobook Review
⭐️ Rating: 4.5/5
Year Published: 2021
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance, Second-Chance Romance
Page Count: 372 (11 hr audiobook)
Narrators: Joe Arden & Maxine Mitchell (Dual Narration)
Quick Summary
Whitney thought she was just heading to her family’s cabin for a cozy Christmas, but she did not expect her ex from college, Eli, to be there too. After nearly two decades apart, their past is suddenly right in front of them, and all the heartbreak, misunderstandings, and unfinished business come rushing back. With holiday festivities, meddling family members, and enough tension to cut through the winter chill, Whitney and Eli have to figure out if their love story ended years ago—or if this Christmas might just bring them a second chance.
What I Loved
Second-Chance Romance Done Right: The chemistry between Whitney and Eli was everything. Their past was messy and painful, but watching them navigate their feelings and actually communicate made for such a rewarding slow burn.
The Cozy, Holiday Vibes: A snowy cabin, Christmas traditions, and all the warm, fuzzy feelings? Yes, please. This book perfectly balanced emotional depth with the festive charm of a holiday romance.
Ravenhood Easter Eggs! If you’ve read The Ravenhood series, you are in for a treat. I may or may not have squealed when I realized this book is set in Triple Falls—and when Sean made an appearance? I screamed. Kate Stewart really knows how to make her fans happy.
What Didn’t Quite Work for Me
Slow Start: The first few chapters focused a lot on Whitney’s personal struggles, and while it gave good backstory, it felt a little heavy before getting into the main romance. But once Eli entered the picture? I was hooked.
Who Should Read This?
Second-Chance Romance Fans – If you love an emotional, slow-burn romance with real stakes and heartfelt moments, this one’s for you.
Holiday Romance Lovers – The Christmas setting is festive but not over-the-top, making it the perfect seasonal read.
Ravenhood Readers – If you’re a fan of Kate Stewart’s other books, you need to read this.
Final Thoughts
This book had all the emotions—heartache, tension, nostalgia, and so much warmth. Watching Whitney and Eli find their way back to each other after all those years was just so satisfying. Add in the holiday setting, a big chaotic family, and some surprise Ravenhood connections, and The Plight Before Christmas is officially a new holiday favorite for me. Highly recommend!
