J.S. Cooper's All I Want For Christmas is Not You is a delightful romp through the tangled web of love, misunderstandings, and the holiday spirit. At its core, the novel is a romantic comedy that plays with the classic trope of enemies-to-lovers, but it does so with a fresh and humorous twist that keeps readers engaged from start to finish.

The story revolves around the protagonist, whose name is not mentioned in the blurb, and her unexpected and unwanted entanglement with Colton Hart, her brother's best friend and her personal nemesis. The premise is set up with a humorous and somewhat scandalous one-night stand that neither party anticipated, leading to a series of awkward and comedic situations. The protagonist's attempt to cover up the incident by pretending to be Colton's new assistant adds another layer of humor and tension to the narrative.

Character development is one of the book's strong suits. The protagonist is relatable and endearing, with her mix of vulnerability and determination. Her internal monologue is both witty and insightful, providing readers with a clear window into her thoughts and emotions. As the story progresses, we see her grappling with her feelings for Colton, which are complicated by their shared history and her initial animosity towards him. This internal conflict is portrayed with nuance, making her journey towards self-discovery and acceptance both believable and engaging.

Colton Hart, on the other hand, is the quintessential charming rogue. His initial portrayal as the protagonist's nemesis is gradually peeled back to reveal a more complex character. Through their interactions, we learn about his motivations and the reasons behind his actions, which adds depth to his character and makes him more than just a stereotypical love interest. The chemistry between the protagonist and Colton is palpable, and their banter is one of the highlights of the book, providing both humor and tension in equal measure.

The themes explored in the novel are both timeless and relevant. The idea of mistaken identity and the consequences of assumptions play a significant role in the narrative. The protagonist's initial misjudgment of Colton, based on their past interactions, serves as a reminder of the importance of looking beyond first impressions. Additionally, the theme of forgiveness and second chances is woven throughout the story, as both characters learn to let go of past grievances and open themselves up to new possibilities.

The holiday setting adds an extra layer of charm to the story. The festive backdrop of Christmas parties, spiked eggnog, and winter romance creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere that perfectly complements the romantic elements of the plot. The use of masks at the party, which leads to the initial misunderstanding, is a clever device that ties into the theme of hidden identities and the masks we wear in our daily lives.

In terms of overall impact, All I Want For Christmas is Not You is a lighthearted and entertaining read that is perfect for the holiday season. J.S. Cooper's writing is engaging and witty, with a knack for creating memorable characters and laugh-out-loud moments. The pacing is brisk, ensuring that the story never drags, and the resolution is satisfying without being overly predictable.

When compared to other similar stories, such as those by authors like Sophie Kinsella or Christina Lauren, Cooper's novel holds its own with its unique blend of humor and heart. While it may not delve as deeply into emotional complexities as some other works in the genre, it excels in delivering a fun and feel-good experience that leaves readers with a smile on their faces.

In conclusion, All I Want For Christmas is Not You is a delightful addition to the romantic comedy genre. Its engaging characters, humorous situations, and heartwarming themes make it a perfect read for anyone looking to escape into a world of holiday romance and laughter. Whether you're a fan of the enemies-to-lovers trope or simply in the mood for a festive love story, this book is sure to deliver on all fronts.