Discovering a photograph in her late husband’s coat pocket spurs Claire Didier on a quest to find a mysterious stranger.

Amidst the magical Christmas markets of France, she finds herself unwrapping a flurry of secrets, betrayals, and intrigue—while facing the exhilarating possibility of a later-in-life romance.

~Standalone~

This is a no-spice romance with either closed doors or fade-to-black scenes. Tension and kisses might be involved 🙂

Title:  His Last Christmas Gift
Series:  Standalone
Author:  Debra Borchert
Published:  November 7, 2025
Publisher:  Le Vin Press
My Rating:  4 stars 

His Last Christmas Gift is the type of story that lingers, prompting the reader to question what they would do in similar circumstances.  When Claire discovered that photograph, the image of the boy looked so much like her deceased husband… her world, her idea of what her marriage meant, all came into question.  She might not have thought herself brave to take off on a journey of discovery, but she was feeling, not thinking, yet courageous; she was indeed.

We walk alongside Claire as she travels to France, explores Christmas markets and vineyards, and faces her husband’s past, perhaps discovering her future.  When she meets Gilbert, romance is the last thing on her mind… needing answers is foremost.  Yet, watching them slowly build not only a friendship but beyond was an emotional journey, one I wouldn’t have missed for anything.

Claire’s story is well-written, so emotional as she faces betrayal, confusion, and a steady determination to understand why.  Why did her husband keep this from her?  I enjoyed myself in this world, smiled, cried, and raged along with Claire as she searched for answers to questions she never should have had to ask.  Her story will draw you in, and keep you there until the final page.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

This title is available at Amazon