THE TWELVE DATES OF CHRISTMAS is the charming, hilarious, and uplifting debut novel by British writer Jenny Bayliss. This high-concept holiday romance about a young designer’s quest to find love in time for the holidays is sure to please fans of Jasmine Guillory, Rachel Winters, and Netflix’s Christmas rom-com lineup.
We had the pleasure of chatting to Jenny about her debut novel, book recommendations, favourite holiday movies and books, and much more!
Hi, Jenny! Tell us a bit about yourself!
Hello! I live in a small seaside town on the South East coast of England, with my husband. Our two grown up sons (plus girlfriend) come home for the holidays and global pandemics! I used to work in an antique jewellers and before that, I was a baker. I made the cakes for a coffee shop in my local high-street, where everyone knew everyone’s business. I love to cook and read and go for long walks; though not all at the same time. I am an audiobook nut; I can’t do the housework or cook dinner unless someone is telling me a story. I love Dr Marten boots – I think my husband always secretly hoped I’d grow out of this – and dresses in vibrant fabrics make my heart sing! I don’t believe in saving anything for best – life is too short – and it is not uncommon to find me doing the weekly shop in a party dress.
With the current state of the world, what are you doing to cope with the changes we’ve had to make with our day-to-day?
For the first six months of the pandemic my kids moved back home, and I felt so thankful to have all my ducks in a row during such uncertain times. We were all working from home, and of course we were only allowed to go out once a day, so our tiny house became an office, a restaurant, a gym, and a movie theatre.
I’ve tried to use this time to take stock and really appreciate all the little things, like pottering around in the back yard with the plants and flowers. We grew our first ever courgettes and tomatoes and it felt great. We put up loads of bird-feeders, although, thus far they only seem to attract one really plump wood pigeon. I have found making a celebration out of the ordinary everyday things has been really helpful mentally; this year I’ve decorated the house to celebrate Autumn, something I’ve never had the time to do before.
When did you first discover your love for writing?
As a child I loved to write stories; story competitions at school were like a dream come true for a nerd like me! Sometimes I would write really long stories with drawings and tie the pages together with bits of ribbon, so it was like a book. I guess I never grew out of it.
Your debut novel, The Twelve Dates of Christmas, is out now! If you could only describe it in five words, what would they be?
Christmassy!! Hopeful, funny, romantic, contemporary.
Now tell us a little more! What can readers expect?
The Twelve Dates of Christmas is modern love story about Kate; a strong, confident woman who doesn’t need a man but would quite one. Expect enduring friendships, disastrous dates, a pushy mother, lots of snow, a fair amount of mulled wine, copious amounts of chocolate and romance!
Without spoiling too much, is there a favourite moment that you absolutely loved writing?
Ooh tricky! Twelve Dates is such a love letter to all things Christmas that it’s hard to choose. I think my favourite moment to write was when Kate wakes up after a cocktail making date, with a stonking hangover and a stroppy, unwelcome guest in her house.
Do you have any favourite holiday movies or books?
So many! The movie Scrooged with Bill Murray still gives me goosebumps every time I watch it. Every year we wait for the kids to come home for Christmas and then settle down to watch National Lampoons Christmas Vacation; it’s an absolute winner in our house. And of course, A Christmas Carol; in all its variations, from the old black and white movie to the Jim Carey animation.
As for books, I have to admit I like a good old-fashioned country house murder, like; A Christmas Party by Georgette Heyer, or a collection of classic Victorian Christmas ghost stories.
A great favourite of mine is Trisha Ashley’s The Twelve Days of Christmas; no ghosts or murder but there is a big country house with lots of food and crackling fires, and a jolly fine romance!
What’s next for you?
I am working on a second novel. Another rom com, set by the sea this time, in Autumn. There is a cast of highly sassy women, an ex-husband who just won’t quit, a sexy boat builder and a grumpy landlord. Expect Jack-o-lanterns and fireworks!
Lastly, are you currently reading anything and do you have any book recommendations for our readers?
I have found during these months of pandemic, that I needed a soothing read. So, I have been working my way through P.G.Wodehouse’s Jeeves and Wooster books. They are so witty and whimsical, and from another age entirely; just the thing to soothe an anxious soul.
Another book which warmed my heart is The Authenticity Project by Clare Pooley; it was an absolute joy – I highly recommend.
