Last Christmas in Paris: An Unforgettable Holiday Romance Set Across the Four Christmases of WWI

An unforgettably romantic novel that spans four Christmases (1914-1918), Last Christmas in Paris explores the ruins of war, the strength of love, and the enduring hope of the Christmas season.

New York Times bestselling author Hazel Gaynor has joined with Heather Webb to create this unforgettably romantic novel of the Great War.

August 1914. England is at war. As Evie Elliott watches her brother, Will, and his best friend, Thomas Harding, depart for the front, she believes—as everyone does—that it will be over by Christmas, when the trio plan to celebrate the holiday among the romantic cafes of Paris.

But as history tells us, it all happened so differently…

Evie and Thomas experience a very different war. Frustrated by life as a privileged young lady, Evie longs to play a greater part in the conflict—but how?—and as Thomas struggles with the unimaginable realities of war he also faces personal battles back home where War Office regulations on press reporting cause trouble at his father’s newspaper business. Through their letters, Evie and Thomas share their greatest hopes and fears—and grow ever fonder from afar. Can love flourish amid the horror of the First World War, or will fate intervene?

Christmas 1968. With failing health, Thomas returns to Paris—a cherished packet of letters in hand—determined to lay to rest the ghosts of his past. But one final letter is waiting for him…

A touching holiday read
Perfect for fans of uplifting winter romances
A delightful Christmas gift

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Recommend book

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Published Oct 3, 2017

400 pages

Average rating: 7.86

180 RATINGS

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JennyS

Jun 25, 2025

4/10 stars

3.5

K Olson

Jan 14, 2025

8/10 stars

I really enjoyed the format of this novel and the historical context. Letter writing is a lost art.

Gail_71

Dec 14, 2025

9/10 stars

"Last Christmas in Paris" is an epistolary novel that unfolds through letters exchanged over the years of World War I, from 1914 to 1918. It is interspersed with chapters set in December 1968 that feature one of the main characters. The story follows Evie Elliott, a privileged young woman near London, as she writes to her brother Will and childhood friend Tom, both of whom are fighting in France, and to her best friend Alice. All three share the desire to contribute more than just moral support to the war effort from home. The authors skillfully create a realistic portrayal of the time period, introducing a cast of side characters that enrich the narrative. The themes of the novel are powerful and varied, addressing women's roles on the home front, the impact of newspapers and propaganda, the harsh realities of war, and concepts such as PTSD, courage, love, and the resilience of the human spirit. The novel juxtaposes the tragedy of war with moments of beauty, illustrated through poetic imagery and the presence of nature. Reading "Last Christmas in Paris" is an emotionally engaging experience, leaving a lasting impression of the strength of those who endure through world wars. The seamless collaboration between the authors is evident, making it hard to believe that two people wrote the book. Despite its Christmas-themed title, the novel is suitable for reading year-round. It comes highly recommended, especially after exploring the insightful author's notes at the end.

blewballoon

Nov 21, 2024

10/10 stars

I highly recommend the audiobook of this, if you like audiobooks. All of the narrators were excellent, and having a variety of narrators does help a lot with an epistolary novel to help you keep track of who wrote the letter you're reading. If you enjoyed this, I would also recommend the audiobook of The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society, which is another story told via an exchange of letters, but just after WWII. I did cry while listening to this and wrapping Christmas gifts after the death of Will, when his letter to Evie is read, so be aware this is a more somber Christmas read. Many of the tragedies and horrors of WWI are touched on. If you watched Downton Abbey season 2 (or similar media about that period) you will already be aware of some of them. Despite the surrounding darkness, the characters try so hard to keep seeking beauty and connection in their lives. The romance is slowly unfolded across many letters, but the friendships are always clear and strong.

Sally St Clair

Feb 03, 2024

8/10 stars

It was a delight to read during the month of December. I haven't read a love story in a long time and enjoyed this one, along with strengthening my respect for world history.