Review: “Christmas on the Coast” (2017)

Given the 76-degree temperatures a week before Christmas, I didn’t expect scarves and coats.

I give Dru credit for wearing dresses (women should wear them more often to showcase femininity!), though I wasn’t fond of the specific choices.

However, those black-strapped cork wedges? Très chic!

Dru’s writing career is struggling — nothing fresh, nothing original. Ordered to create a masterpiece by February or else, she heads home for inspiration. Her brilliant plan? Write about how only SHE can bring culture and adventure to the “local yokels.”

When she and Brysen meet, they immediately clash. But as she bonds with his daughter Peyton and keeps encountering Brysen, feelings develop.

Then the town discovers her unflattering manuscript, forcing Dru to examine her own prejudices and seek forgiveness from everyone — especially Brysen, whom she now loves.

Several teaser moments build anticipation through interruptions, making the actual kiss even more special. When it finally happened, I exclaimed aloud, “Now THAT is a first kiss!”

Even better than the first! Brysen proves himself a very good kisser, and the chemistry between them makes these moments genuinely swoon-worthy.

Multiple faith nods appear throughout — a prominently displayed Nativity scene, Romans 10:13 on a town plaque, and themes of family and forgiveness woven naturally into the narrative.

This film also offers a wonderful teaching opportunity about finding security not in others’ opinions or even self-perception, but in how God sees us.

Dru fled her hometown feeling like an outcast. Turns out SHE was the one who didn’t understand or appreciate the town. She’s different, yes, but not despised — she just needed to get comfortable in the skin God gave her.

Oh my gosh. This is truly a wonderful movie. No snow, but a timeless Christmas romance nonetheless. Filled with laughs and scenes that will move you to tears, this absolutely belongs on my All-Time Favorites list alongside Eve’s Christmas and The Christmas Contract.

I am SO happy my first impression proved correct. This really is a feel-good movie worthy of annual rewatching.

Brysen is not only handsome but tall with a great sense of humor — the complete package. And the message about belonging, acceptance, and finding your way home resonates deeply.

The town’s bell that calls weary travelers home, the Scripture reminding us that if we call out we’ll be safe — these elements elevate this beyond typical Christmas romance into something genuinely meaningful.