Book review of Christmas with My Enemy: An African American Urban Romance

by Daja Wiles (Author)

Updated at: 01/03/2025

In Daja Wiles's Christmas with My Enemy, a captivating African American urban romance, Destiny, daughter of a powerful kingpin, faces a forced marriage to a man she loathes – just before Christmas. Her escape leads her to Jamal Morgan, known as "Beast," a dangerous and alluring man who represents everything her family despises. Their undeniable attraction throws Destiny into a whirlwind of forbidden desire, pitting her against her family and a past she can't outrun. Caught between her arranged marriage and a passionate connection with Beast, Destiny must gamble everything for a chance at freedom. This steamy holiday romance, part of the Feuding Hearts Series, blends enemies-to-lovers tropes with a touch of supernatural intrigue, creating a thrilling and unforgettable read.

Christmas with My Enemy: An African American Urban Romance

4.3 / 45 ratings

Review Christmas with My Enemy

Oh my goodness, "Christmas with My Enemy" was a wild ride! From the very first page, I was hooked. The premise itself – a forced marriage to someone you despise, a daring escape into the arms of your family's sworn enemy, all set against the backdrop of Christmas – is pure delicious escapism. And Daja Wiles delivered on that promise tenfold.

The characters, Tati and Jamal (Beast), were so captivating. Tati's desperation to escape her controlling father and her fiercely independent spirit really resonated with me. She's not a damsel in distress; she's proactive, resourceful, and willing to risk everything for her chance at freedom and happiness. And Jamal…oh, Jamal. The "dangerous, brutal" description in the book blurb is spot-on, but there's also a vulnerability and a surprising gentleness beneath his tough exterior that made him utterly irresistible. The slow burn between them, the tension crackling between their families' bitter rivalry, it was all perfectly executed. Their online connection, built over a year before their real-life confrontation, added a really interesting layer to their relationship, highlighting how easily appearances can deceive and how profoundly connection can transcend even the most deeply rooted conflicts.

The plot itself was a whirlwind of twists and turns, keeping me guessing right until the end. There were moments of intense suspense, heart-stopping near-misses, and betrayals that left me gasping. The author did a fantastic job of building the tension, balancing the romantic elements with the thrilling action sequences. While some readers mentioned minor plot points that felt rushed or incomplete, I found the overall pacing worked well for the story's fast-paced nature. The Christmas setting, while a somewhat unconventional backdrop for a story of this nature, worked surprisingly well, adding a layer of unexpected warmth and festivity amidst the danger and drama. The juxtaposition of the holiday cheer with the underlying turmoil only enhanced the emotional impact.

One thing I especially appreciated was the restraint in the violence. The description mentions that the killing was kept to a minimum, which I think was a smart choice, allowing the focus to remain on the blossoming romance and the characters' internal struggles. It let the emotional stakes shine through without getting bogged down in gratuitous violence, which is a refreshing change from some books in this genre.

Overall, "Christmas with My Enemy" is a highly enjoyable read. It's a perfect blend of romance, suspense, and a touch of holiday magic. The characters are compelling, the plot is exciting, and the underlying theme of finding love and freedom against all odds is deeply satisfying. If you're looking for a steamy, captivating read that will keep you on the edge of your seat, this book is definitely worth picking up. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone who enjoys urban fantasy romance with a healthy dose of danger and a dash of Christmas cheer.

See more: Ready to be Loved by You - A Deep Dive Review