Book Review - Christmas at Hollybush Farm by Jo Thomas - #BlogTour

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Title: Christmas at Hollybush Farm

Author: Ebook

Format reviewed: Ebook

Source: Netgalley

Publisher: Transworld Digital

Publication Date: 9th October 2025

Rating: 5 Stars

Jemima Jones is driving home to her family's magical hill-top farm for Christmas…

And on arrival, she soon learns that her dad has been keeping a secret – all is not as it seems, and Hollybush Farm is struggling to make ends meet! Worried about losing the childhood home she loves, Jemima must pull on her winter wellies and get stuck in.

Amid the chaos of chasing after escaping sheep and organising the Christmas tractor run, Jemima begins documenting her slice of farming life on social media. As she builds a supportive online following, she also forms an offline connection in the shape of charming, retired rugby player Llew, her very own Santa's helper.

With a sprinkle of festive cheer and a dash of goodwill, might the community pull together to help save the farm in time for Christmas?

When I think of Jo Thomas I think of amazing books, delicious food and exotic locations. 

Well one out of three is certainly true of this book - it's a totally brilliant story and I couldn't read it quick enough and it kept me completely engrossed for a couple of long train journeys. 

The location though this time is slightly less than exotic at least to me, it's on a sheep farm in Wales and it's all about a small farming community that is struggling. With Jem having returned home for a visit, discovering her father is unwell and decides she needs to stay. 

And in that ends up becoming an online sensation trying to be voice for underappreciated farmers everywhere, and re-acquaints herself with the community and is surprised at what has been happening in her home town. 

Unfortunately just due to personal taste the food did not make my mouth water. If you are a fan of winter warming healthy food that is definitely the definition of farm to table, then you will almost certainly be hungry while reading this, but it's just not my idea of appetising again, even with Jo's great descriptions of it. 

But luckily I'm not just here for the food, I'm here for the heartwarming stories that this author tells and this really is one of those.  It's about community, it's topical, and it's certainly opened my eyes to what farmers are dealing with.  In fact this probably needs to be read by anyone that makes the rubbish decisions that affect British farmers, as this is a great advocate as to the issues they are facing. 

I absolutely loved the animals present in this book, especially the mischievous ram and all of the main dogs. Seeing Jem get back in touch with her roots was really lovely. 

Another top quality book from an auto read and favourite author of mine. Just wonderful. 

Thank you to Transworld Digital and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.  

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