The Last Noel

Author: Sarah Hamaker, Jayna Breigh, Kimberley Woodhouse
Genre: Holiday Romance Anthology
Pages: 352
Release Date: August 18, 2026
Publisher: Kregel

The Last Noel is a riveting Christmas novella collection with suspense, intrigue, and second-chance romance. One book, three stories:

"Do You See What I See?" by Sarah Hamaker

Oakleigh Wright's estranged foster sister reappears late one night desperate to hand off her children. Oakleigh agrees to bring them to their aunt out of state, but her travels are intercepted by a ruthless gang. She turns to her ex, Joseph, for help. Will they rekindle their love as they uncover what the gang seeks?

"Do You Hear What I Hear?" by Jayna Breigh

Trial Lawyer Elise Sinclair resigns herself to her lonely Christmas reviewing legal documents—until her renegade fiance, Jack, reappears. He is jobless, broken, and seeking forgiveness. Can two battered hearts overcome secrets and restore their love?

"Do You Know What I Know?" by Kimberley Woodhouse

When Faith Thibodeaux returns to her Cajun-style food truck in Alaska after an accident, the last thing she expects is to find out that her ex-boyfriend is the executive chef of a new restaurant. When they return to their hometown over the holidays to fundraise, will the "friendly" cooking competition restore their love or rip them apart forever?

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Reviewer: Billi Varela

I have had the pleasure of reading several Kimberly Woodhouse’s books; however, they have never been contemporary novels, which was new but interesting to me. Kimberly Woodhouse’s books are sometimes filled with mystery. I liked that this was still a mystery and had the romance that I needed but was also contemporary. I will have to look at more books by her soon.

Sarah Hamaker and Jayna Breigh are new authors to me. I liked their writing style, and I will also have to look at more books. 

I liked the second chance trope that these stories had. I also love that it has Christmasy feelings, which I would have loved to read during Christmas. 

I also liked that these were novellas so it was faster to read, but it provided everything I needed in a book. 

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this story from Kregel Publications through Interviews & Reviews. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own. 

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Reviewer: Paula Shreckhise

A solid trio of Christmas suspense stories.

Do You See What I See by Sarah Hamaker:

First time reading this author and she does a great job of putting suspense into a surprise encounter, weaving a faith thread of forgiveness and going beyond for a friend. Oakleigh has a love that shows obedience to the Golden Rule. 

Do You Hear What I Hear by Jayna Breigh: 

It is always fun to read a Jayna Brieigh story. She really conveys what is in a character’s head. Second chance with Jack is possible but only with forgiveness and compassion. It helps that Elise and Jack are searching for answers together. Legalese is understandable and enjoyable. 

Do You Know What I Know by Kimberley Woodhouse:

A food contest with two people who are surprised to see eachother. Set in Alaska and with danger cropping up, the sparks fly again for Faith and Liam as Liam seeks forgiveness and they both seek God’s will. 

These three accomplished authors put their own expertise into three wonderful novellas. They showcase second chances, love and forgiveness in a charming and suspenseful way. 

A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Kregel via NetGalley. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.

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