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Mistletoe in the City
Derek’s world is about to change forever—again.
After his father’s stroke, Derek Weston dropped out of college and returned home to help his parents with the family business, Oak Landing Apartments. Now living on the premises as the groundskeeper and handyman, he never expected the girl he’d secretly crushed on in high school to move into a unit right before Christmas or stir up desires he thought long gone.
Krista Hartley needs a fresh start away from her overbearing parents, but falling for the tattooed hottie who ignored her back in school wasn’t in the plans. Despite old hurts, Derek’s hot kisses and strong arms offer the shelter she craves.
When another woman sets her sight on Derek and drives a wedge between him and Krista, they’ll have to decide if their relationship is real, or just a winter fling.
-- Mistletoe in the City is a steamy New Adult holiday romance novella with a scene depicting light drug use. No cheating and HEA guaranteed.
-- Second edition. Fully revised and extended with additional chapters.
-- Formerly part of the Handmade for Christmas anthology.
After his father’s stroke, Derek Weston dropped out of college and returned home to help his parents with the family business, Oak Landing Apartments. Now living on the premises as the groundskeeper and handyman, he never expected the girl he’d secretly crushed on in high school to move into a unit right before Christmas or stir up desires he thought long gone.
Krista Hartley needs a fresh start away from her overbearing parents, but falling for the tattooed hottie who ignored her back in school wasn’t in the plans. Despite old hurts, Derek’s hot kisses and strong arms offer the shelter she craves.
When another woman sets her sight on Derek and drives a wedge between him and Krista, they’ll have to decide if their relationship is real, or just a winter fling.
-- Mistletoe in the City is a steamy New Adult holiday romance novella with a scene depicting light drug use. No cheating and HEA guaranteed.
-- Second edition. Fully revised and extended with additional chapters.
-- Formerly part of the Handmade for Christmas anthology.
145 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2014
4 people are currently reading
64 people want to read
About the author
Amber Daulton
43 books551 followersAmber Daulton is the author of the romantic-suspense series Arresting Onyx and several standalone novellas. Her books are published through Daulton Publishing, The Wild Rose Press, and Books to Go Now, and are available in ebook, print on demand, audio, and foreign language formats.
She lives in North Carolina with her husband and demanding cats.
Curious about her favorite books? Check out Arresting Mason and Arresting Jeremiah.
She lives in North Carolina with her husband and demanding cats.
Curious about her favorite books? Check out Arresting Mason and Arresting Jeremiah.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 53 reviews
November 7, 2023
4 star
The story has laughs, secrets, and love.
This is Krista and Derek’s story. He dropped out of college and returned home when his parents needed help with the family business. He never expected to see his secret crush moving into a unit right before Christmas. Krista needs a fresh start away from her overbearing parents. When she sees Derek the pull between them is strong but is he playing her? When someone else jumps into the mix will she walk away or will she fight for what she wants?
I recommend this book.
The story has laughs, secrets, and love.
This is Krista and Derek’s story. He dropped out of college and returned home when his parents needed help with the family business. He never expected to see his secret crush moving into a unit right before Christmas. Krista needs a fresh start away from her overbearing parents. When she sees Derek the pull between them is strong but is he playing her? When someone else jumps into the mix will she walk away or will she fight for what she wants?
I recommend this book.
November 6, 2023
STEAMY ROCKY RELATIONSHIP (3.5 stars)
The story originally appeared in the ‘Handmade for Christmas’ anthology and has been fully revised and extended. This is a second-chance holiday romance between a couple who attended high school together. Derek liked Krista but wanted to maintain his ‘cool bad-boy vibes’ with his friends and hang out with the girls that run with the bad-boys. Krista liked Derek but was shy and insecure.
Krista’s boyfriend she lived with cheated on her, and since the apartment was in his name, she had to move. So after a bad breakup, and back home under her parent's roof, Krista is ready to set out independently. She has a decent job as a bank teller. Finding a nice apartment in a decent neighborhood comes with a new surprise—the owner’s son went to high school with Krista.
The story is about the relationship that sparks as Derek and Krista rekindle a friendship, to dating and entering a sexual relationship. Derek had to drop out of college after his father's stroke and he was needed to help his parents with their family business.
I felt Derek and Krista moved quickly with a sexual relationship, starting in his truck on their first date. I felt like he tried to do something nice for her, and then she decided she wanted to go into a bar, and got miffed when his friends were there and she felt ignored. And there is mention of using drugs.
“What are the odds that you’d need a place to live at the same time a unit in my mom’s building opened up? Call it fate, luck, or a Christmas miracle, but a higher power wanted us to find each other.”
The story is well written, but with so much angst between them and insecurity on her part that these two struggle. It never did feel like a relationship because for every two steps forward it was one step back. I can’t say that I liked either one of the two main characters.
The story originally appeared in the ‘Handmade for Christmas’ anthology and has been fully revised and extended. This is a second-chance holiday romance between a couple who attended high school together. Derek liked Krista but wanted to maintain his ‘cool bad-boy vibes’ with his friends and hang out with the girls that run with the bad-boys. Krista liked Derek but was shy and insecure.
Krista’s boyfriend she lived with cheated on her, and since the apartment was in his name, she had to move. So after a bad breakup, and back home under her parent's roof, Krista is ready to set out independently. She has a decent job as a bank teller. Finding a nice apartment in a decent neighborhood comes with a new surprise—the owner’s son went to high school with Krista.
The story is about the relationship that sparks as Derek and Krista rekindle a friendship, to dating and entering a sexual relationship. Derek had to drop out of college after his father's stroke and he was needed to help his parents with their family business.
I felt Derek and Krista moved quickly with a sexual relationship, starting in his truck on their first date. I felt like he tried to do something nice for her, and then she decided she wanted to go into a bar, and got miffed when his friends were there and she felt ignored. And there is mention of using drugs.
“What are the odds that you’d need a place to live at the same time a unit in my mom’s building opened up? Call it fate, luck, or a Christmas miracle, but a higher power wanted us to find each other.”
The story is well written, but with so much angst between them and insecurity on her part that these two struggle. It never did feel like a relationship because for every two steps forward it was one step back. I can’t say that I liked either one of the two main characters.
November 27, 2023
This is my first read from Amber Daulton, and I decided to read this one just in time for the holidays to begin. Readers are introduced to Derek and Krista, two kindred spirits reeling from their past mistakes. They had crushed on each other in high school but never acted on their feelings due to insecurities and peer pressure. Years later, Krista finds herself starting a new life after a cheating boyfriend and a bad breakup. After landing a job and moving into a great apartment, she's ready to dive into the world and rebuild her independent life. Little does she know that her landlord's son is Derek and handles all of the building's maintenance.
The two find themselves reigniting their friendship and evidently breaking through each other's walls. I did enjoy the story and liked the angst and the constant battle between the two characters. Krista was a bit dramatic, and Derek always wanted to do the right thing for her. This is a cute, sweet romance novella with a bit of spice. I recommend this one if you're a fan of small-town holiday romances.
The two find themselves reigniting their friendship and evidently breaking through each other's walls. I did enjoy the story and liked the angst and the constant battle between the two characters. Krista was a bit dramatic, and Derek always wanted to do the right thing for her. This is a cute, sweet romance novella with a bit of spice. I recommend this one if you're a fan of small-town holiday romances.
November 9, 2023
I liked the premise of the story and I really liked Krista! There was a smidge too much foul language for my taste.
October 4, 2023
Cute story about reconnecting and second chances with a high school crush. Quick read with steamy scenes, angst and romance plus a cookie recipe at the end. What’s not to like?
November 7, 2023
Aww! Who wants a cute romance read? Krista Hartley wants to escape her parents hold and is apartment searching when she spots her high school crush Derek Weston, little does she know , he’s got the same crush on her ….With a little help from Cupid in the guise of Mrs W , they might end up with an happy ever after…. That’s if they both haven’t grown too much beyond each other’s expectations. …Awesome holiday sweetness, well written , fluent easy fireside read
I read a free copy of the book and my revised voluntary and my own words
I read a free copy of the book and my revised voluntary and my own words
December 14, 2024
I enjoyed the premise of Mistletoe in the City. Two people in different high school cliques, crushing on each other but never doing anything about it until they meet up three years later when Krista (heroine) moves into a new apartment.
The characters had a lot of depth for a short novella, both displaying surprising mature traits as well as the common immature traits typical of 21 year olds. Their immaturity was not unbelievable and using it to add tensions and misunderstandings worked well.
Derek was a little too mature in some ways, and turning down his buddy's bachelor party did seem to be a stretch seeing as he's only 21. It seemed that acceptance could have been a natural source of tension between the two characters seeing as women tend to mature a lot faster than men. Unfortunately we didn't get this.
The real tension came from misunderstandings and as said previously, they worked due to the immaturity of the characters, they didn't work for me as much due to the scenario and this isn't spoiling anything seeing as the scenario is mentioned in the marketing materials. The scenario being that of another woman. While I won't go into any spoiler territory, I will say that the scenario seemed a little too manufactured.
In Ms. Daulton's Onyx books, a lot of the issues the characters face come from an external criminal threat which challenges the couples more and while not every story needs this, the other woman issue isn't really developed enough to provide temptation and allow the insecurities to flourish.
The writing as always is fantastic, as is the characters thoughts and dialogue and finally the spicy scenes are erotic, passionate and well realised. The speed the characters move into that level of intimacy is also believable due to the ages of the characters.
All in all, if you love passionate and explicit romance, then Mistletoe in the City, as well as Ms. Daulton's other books, are for you. It's a fun way to entertain yourself for a few hours.
The characters had a lot of depth for a short novella, both displaying surprising mature traits as well as the common immature traits typical of 21 year olds. Their immaturity was not unbelievable and using it to add tensions and misunderstandings worked well.
Derek was a little too mature in some ways, and turning down his buddy's bachelor party did seem to be a stretch seeing as he's only 21. It seemed that acceptance could have been a natural source of tension between the two characters seeing as women tend to mature a lot faster than men. Unfortunately we didn't get this.
The real tension came from misunderstandings and as said previously, they worked due to the immaturity of the characters, they didn't work for me as much due to the scenario and this isn't spoiling anything seeing as the scenario is mentioned in the marketing materials. The scenario being that of another woman. While I won't go into any spoiler territory, I will say that the scenario seemed a little too manufactured.
In Ms. Daulton's Onyx books, a lot of the issues the characters face come from an external criminal threat which challenges the couples more and while not every story needs this, the other woman issue isn't really developed enough to provide temptation and allow the insecurities to flourish.
The writing as always is fantastic, as is the characters thoughts and dialogue and finally the spicy scenes are erotic, passionate and well realised. The speed the characters move into that level of intimacy is also believable due to the ages of the characters.
All in all, if you love passionate and explicit romance, then Mistletoe in the City, as well as Ms. Daulton's other books, are for you. It's a fun way to entertain yourself for a few hours.
March 21, 2024
This is a short novel. It gets right to work being a nice, positive story of a woman getting her first apartment. She’s lived with a man, she’s lived with her parents, but now she will live independently. The apartment she finds is beautiful. She also finds out that the superintendent of the apartment complex is a person she secretly crushed on in high school. She didn’t know it, but he secretly crushed on her as well. The woman’s name is Krista (the guy’s name is Derek). Things get interesting quickly.
Krista attends craft shows in her spare time, where she sells hand-made jewelry and baked goods—and that’s what this short novella reminded me of—a bakery treat—just a quick indulgence. It’s sweet, it’s pretty, it’s SURPRISINGLY spicy, and it’s satisfying. Like bakery treats, you could easily consume twenty of these in a row and then wonder where the time went. The story is not without scary misunderstandings, but nothing too bad. It is obvious that the author adores her readers. She starts the book with the promise that it will be trigger free regarding cheating, and that the book will end with a cookie recipe. There is no cheating in the story—but there is a scary misunderstanding. Every story needs some element of drama, and this one is no exception—the analogy it brings to mind is that you have to have some stones in the mill in order to make flour. I thought “Gee, that will make a great comment! It even relates to making cookies”, but I read the recipe at the end of the book. There is no flour in the recipe. Shows you what I know. Some things should just be left to the experts—like Ms. Daulton—and the fun treats she creates for her adult romance readers. Recommended.
Krista attends craft shows in her spare time, where she sells hand-made jewelry and baked goods—and that’s what this short novella reminded me of—a bakery treat—just a quick indulgence. It’s sweet, it’s pretty, it’s SURPRISINGLY spicy, and it’s satisfying. Like bakery treats, you could easily consume twenty of these in a row and then wonder where the time went. The story is not without scary misunderstandings, but nothing too bad. It is obvious that the author adores her readers. She starts the book with the promise that it will be trigger free regarding cheating, and that the book will end with a cookie recipe. There is no cheating in the story—but there is a scary misunderstanding. Every story needs some element of drama, and this one is no exception—the analogy it brings to mind is that you have to have some stones in the mill in order to make flour. I thought “Gee, that will make a great comment! It even relates to making cookies”, but I read the recipe at the end of the book. There is no flour in the recipe. Shows you what I know. Some things should just be left to the experts—like Ms. Daulton—and the fun treats she creates for her adult romance readers. Recommended.
November 8, 2023
A Good New Adult Romance
Ah, to be twenty-one again. On second thought, no. But I do enjoy a good new adult romance on occasion. Especially where it’s not all college and drinking and drama. Not to say this book doesn’t have a bit of beer or a bit of drama – it does. But it also has two responsible twenty-one-year-old protagonists who are in a different place than most of their peers.
Krista’s got a respectable job and is moving out from under her parents’ thumbs. Derek’s dad had a stroke and although he’s made some improvements, he's not nearly where he used to be. To help out, Derek has taken over the repairs and maintenance position at his family’s rental building. Where he encounters Krista, who’s moving in. Krista who he crushed on in high school. He’d believed it to be unrequited, but it turns out she felt the same way.
Both these characters have issues. Krista’s self-esteem was never high, but after finding her ex in bed with another woman, whatever was left wound up being shredded. Derek’s a bit clumsy (boy, can I relate) and he’s also got friends who aren’t always looking out for his best interests. Self-absorbed, I think would be the tactful way of putting it.
Somehow, through baking lessons and Christmas tree decorating, Krista and Derek start to see each other differently. Through a mature lens. Not to say each doesn’t do monumentally immature things. Ah, to be twenty-one again. In the end, though, they smarten up and I’m quite certain will make it as a couple. An enjoyable read, especially this time of year.
Ah, to be twenty-one again. On second thought, no. But I do enjoy a good new adult romance on occasion. Especially where it’s not all college and drinking and drama. Not to say this book doesn’t have a bit of beer or a bit of drama – it does. But it also has two responsible twenty-one-year-old protagonists who are in a different place than most of their peers.
Krista’s got a respectable job and is moving out from under her parents’ thumbs. Derek’s dad had a stroke and although he’s made some improvements, he's not nearly where he used to be. To help out, Derek has taken over the repairs and maintenance position at his family’s rental building. Where he encounters Krista, who’s moving in. Krista who he crushed on in high school. He’d believed it to be unrequited, but it turns out she felt the same way.
Both these characters have issues. Krista’s self-esteem was never high, but after finding her ex in bed with another woman, whatever was left wound up being shredded. Derek’s a bit clumsy (boy, can I relate) and he’s also got friends who aren’t always looking out for his best interests. Self-absorbed, I think would be the tactful way of putting it.
Somehow, through baking lessons and Christmas tree decorating, Krista and Derek start to see each other differently. Through a mature lens. Not to say each doesn’t do monumentally immature things. Ah, to be twenty-one again. In the end, though, they smarten up and I’m quite certain will make it as a couple. An enjoyable read, especially this time of year.
July 5, 2025
By chance, Kris and Derek reconnect a few years after graduating High school. The story chapters alternate between her and his viewpoints. Back in high school the only thing they had in common was an unspoken attraction for the other. Now Kris crafts, bakes, and works in a bank. Derek has left the college life to co-manage his family’s apartment building and trouble shoot maintenance issues. Their paths recross when Kris rents an apartment the same building Derek lives in.
This is the first book I have read in the “new adult” genre. It’s a novella and targets readers who love Hallmark movies and hot-hot steamy Harlequin romances. The writing is clean, and the storyline matches the romance trope. Initially the characters are well drawn. It moves along at a rapid pace, and it doesn’t take long for the two protagonists to consummate their mutual attraction.
For me, two main things didn’t work. 1: The characters don’t sound like “new” adults. Both are over 21. Yet they act and think more like they’re still in junior high—impulsive, immature, and inconsistent at times. By the end of the story, I liked them less—my empathy built in the opening scenes had faded.
I also felt the hot sex is overdone without any real purpose except to titillate an adolescent reader. Sometimes less is more. One of the most erotic books I’ve ever read was The French Lieutenant's Woman, and the actual sex scene was a few sentences.
This is the first book I have read in the “new adult” genre. It’s a novella and targets readers who love Hallmark movies and hot-hot steamy Harlequin romances. The writing is clean, and the storyline matches the romance trope. Initially the characters are well drawn. It moves along at a rapid pace, and it doesn’t take long for the two protagonists to consummate their mutual attraction.
For me, two main things didn’t work. 1: The characters don’t sound like “new” adults. Both are over 21. Yet they act and think more like they’re still in junior high—impulsive, immature, and inconsistent at times. By the end of the story, I liked them less—my empathy built in the opening scenes had faded.
I also felt the hot sex is overdone without any real purpose except to titillate an adolescent reader. Sometimes less is more. One of the most erotic books I’ve ever read was The French Lieutenant's Woman, and the actual sex scene was a few sentences.
December 9, 2023
• Thank you to author Amber Daulton for providing the ARC and the opportunity to read this lovely novella •
Mistletoe In The City is a short novella about our FMC who has lived with her parents her entire life and is just now moving into her own apartment, and our MMC who is the maintenance man of the building she’s moving into.
It is a second chance at a romance that never happened during their highschool years.
Being a new adult romance, I feel the book is targeted at an audience younger than me, probably between 18 and 25.
Our characters’ relationship starts off sweet and cute and develops into one that is rocky at best. Our FMC comes off immature and takes rash decisions when it comes to her relationship. She doesn’t come to her senses until she talks to her friends, which was just adorable. Given her age, I really appreciated that point.
However, I did feel that their relationship was a bit rushed while other plot points took longer than necessary.
Having said that, I enjoyed the story as it was a breath of fresh from all the fluff. The addition of miscommunication and naivety added a realness to the story that I did not expect to like as much as I did!
I would recommend this book to new adults seeking second chance romance in a festive setting that is heavy on the romance and spice.
Mistletoe In The City is a short novella about our FMC who has lived with her parents her entire life and is just now moving into her own apartment, and our MMC who is the maintenance man of the building she’s moving into.
It is a second chance at a romance that never happened during their highschool years.
Being a new adult romance, I feel the book is targeted at an audience younger than me, probably between 18 and 25.
Our characters’ relationship starts off sweet and cute and develops into one that is rocky at best. Our FMC comes off immature and takes rash decisions when it comes to her relationship. She doesn’t come to her senses until she talks to her friends, which was just adorable. Given her age, I really appreciated that point.
However, I did feel that their relationship was a bit rushed while other plot points took longer than necessary.
Having said that, I enjoyed the story as it was a breath of fresh from all the fluff. The addition of miscommunication and naivety added a realness to the story that I did not expect to like as much as I did!
I would recommend this book to new adults seeking second chance romance in a festive setting that is heavy on the romance and spice.
November 7, 2023
3.5 stars rounded up to 4.
Mistletoe in the City by Amber Daulton is a sweet, small town Christmas novella between Krista and Derek, our main characters who admired each other from afar in high school with neither knowing the true feelings they harbored.
Krista, our FMC, returns home to live with her parents after an unexpected, awful breakup. Krista returns home to recoup, regroup, and recover from being cheated on by her boyfriend, but unfortunately, going back to her parents is less than ideal due to their stifling nature.
Derek, our MMC, left college to return home and help maintain the family business after his father had a stroke. Derek wanted Krista in high school but never made it known to keep his "bad boy" image in place. When he found out that she was looking at apartments that his family owned, he knew it was fate, and the timing was meant for them to finally have a chance.
The relationship between Derek and Krista was rocky at best half the time. I did feel like it moved very fast, which I understand can and does happen, but I felt the relationship was rushed overall. Also, there was so much back and forth between the characters and themselves that it didn't give the relationship a genuine feel. Overall, I feel this was a cute storyline and a worthwhile novella.
Mistletoe in the City by Amber Daulton is a sweet, small town Christmas novella between Krista and Derek, our main characters who admired each other from afar in high school with neither knowing the true feelings they harbored.
Krista, our FMC, returns home to live with her parents after an unexpected, awful breakup. Krista returns home to recoup, regroup, and recover from being cheated on by her boyfriend, but unfortunately, going back to her parents is less than ideal due to their stifling nature.
Derek, our MMC, left college to return home and help maintain the family business after his father had a stroke. Derek wanted Krista in high school but never made it known to keep his "bad boy" image in place. When he found out that she was looking at apartments that his family owned, he knew it was fate, and the timing was meant for them to finally have a chance.
The relationship between Derek and Krista was rocky at best half the time. I did feel like it moved very fast, which I understand can and does happen, but I felt the relationship was rushed overall. Also, there was so much back and forth between the characters and themselves that it didn't give the relationship a genuine feel. Overall, I feel this was a cute storyline and a worthwhile novella.
November 6, 2023
This was a sweet, and heartwarming holiday romance novel that is sure to put you in the festive spirit.
Krista has just recently moved out of her parents' home. She needed space to breathe and find her place in the world.
As she is getting herself acquainted with her neighborhood she runs into her old high school crush, Derek. Derek is the manager of her building, and he is just as charming and attractive as Krista remembers him to be.
Krista and Derek start spending more and more time together, and it's clear that they have strong feelings for each other.
But soon the past and the present collide driving a wedge of doubt and distrust between our lovebirds
Enter Mrs. W
Don't worry all hope is not lost she has just the miracle up her sleeve
If you are looking for a quick and easy read that will put you in the holiday spirit, then I highly recommend this book. It had a solid storyline that was easy to follow. A bit heavy at times on the angst but it worked here.
Oh, and the chemistry between these two * fans myself * hot as hades
Krista has just recently moved out of her parents' home. She needed space to breathe and find her place in the world.
As she is getting herself acquainted with her neighborhood she runs into her old high school crush, Derek. Derek is the manager of her building, and he is just as charming and attractive as Krista remembers him to be.
Krista and Derek start spending more and more time together, and it's clear that they have strong feelings for each other.
But soon the past and the present collide driving a wedge of doubt and distrust between our lovebirds
Enter Mrs. W
Don't worry all hope is not lost she has just the miracle up her sleeve
If you are looking for a quick and easy read that will put you in the holiday spirit, then I highly recommend this book. It had a solid storyline that was easy to follow. A bit heavy at times on the angst but it worked here.
Oh, and the chemistry between these two * fans myself * hot as hades
December 21, 2023
My Thoughts
Krista Hartley was looking to get away from her over bearing parents when she went to look at an apartment. While looking at the place she couldn’t believe her eyes when she say her crush standing there. Derek Weston, the maintenance man at his parent’s apartment was shocked to learn that his mother just spoke with his crush from school. Neither of the two knew they had a crush. After some divine intervention the pair would meet and see if they could both finally tell the other how they felt. It could be a perfect pair if it wasn’t fir nosey neighbors and old flings butting in. The two would have to get past misunderstandings to work things out.
I enjoyed this short Christmas read. The book flows nicely and it’s a believable story. While this is a short story I would actually love to hear more about the two. But it does have a nice ending not a cliffhanger. A great read. I recommend.
SOURCE I received a copy of the book from the author to review.
Krista Hartley was looking to get away from her over bearing parents when she went to look at an apartment. While looking at the place she couldn’t believe her eyes when she say her crush standing there. Derek Weston, the maintenance man at his parent’s apartment was shocked to learn that his mother just spoke with his crush from school. Neither of the two knew they had a crush. After some divine intervention the pair would meet and see if they could both finally tell the other how they felt. It could be a perfect pair if it wasn’t fir nosey neighbors and old flings butting in. The two would have to get past misunderstandings to work things out.
I enjoyed this short Christmas read. The book flows nicely and it’s a believable story. While this is a short story I would actually love to hear more about the two. But it does have a nice ending not a cliffhanger. A great read. I recommend.
SOURCE I received a copy of the book from the author to review.
March 16, 2024
Not everyone gets to attend college and go on to a great career. There are times when life intrudes. Derek Weston's life was changed when his father had a stroke. Derek had to quit college and head home to help his parents. He took over as the maintenance guy for apartments his parents owned. He just hoped nothing else changed. Boy, is he in for a wild Christmas!
What a wonderful story! While the story is set at Christmas, it fits any time of the year. Beautifully written and with fantastic detail, you'll want to add this one to your TBR list. The characters are well fleshed out and are people you'll recognize in your own life. I found this book to be a quick read simply because you won't want to put it down. The book is perfect for yourself or as a gift for a friend. Get it!
I found no issues in this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it shows life can be beautiful with or without college. The author provided a copy of the book but I chose to review it.
What a wonderful story! While the story is set at Christmas, it fits any time of the year. Beautifully written and with fantastic detail, you'll want to add this one to your TBR list. The characters are well fleshed out and are people you'll recognize in your own life. I found this book to be a quick read simply because you won't want to put it down. The book is perfect for yourself or as a gift for a friend. Get it!
I found no issues in this one.
I gave this one 5 cheers out of 5 because it shows life can be beautiful with or without college. The author provided a copy of the book but I chose to review it.
July 3, 2025
Krista and Derek meet again when she rents an apartment owned by his parents where he is the maintenance guy. They both had crushes on each other in high school, but neither knew the other's feelings. Derek's friends prove to be hindrances, and they have conflicts that keep their relationship from being smooth sailing. But will they be able to overcome these misunderstandings? There are several adult situations, including mention of drug use, detailed sexual situations, and adult language including repeated use of the F word. The story was edited fairly well with only a very few typos including "saddled" when it seemed that "sidled" was the intended word. (A guy is moving sideways into an eating booth.) There were also a few places where emotions shifted suddenly and I couldn't see how or why. Overall though, the story will appeal to adult readers who enjoy short romances with spice and adult language.
Per the drug use, sex, and adult language it's not appropriate for kiddos.
Per the drug use, sex, and adult language it's not appropriate for kiddos.
August 31, 2025
I loved Mistletoe in the City! Derek has been working as a handyman at his parents’ apartment complex after his father’s stroke. When his high school crush Krista applies for a unit, it’s his chance to finally ask her out. I loved their dynamic. Derek likes to present a bit of a bad boy persona on the outside, with some people in his friend group who may not have his best interests at heart (I did love the drama there!) Krista makes crafts to sell at farmer’s markets, which was a fun touch. These two have both pined for each other since high school and they definitely have a spicy connection whenever they’re together. I loved all the Christmasy touches in this one, including a Christmas parade, and baking cookies together! This was a spicy new adult read, that is perfect if you’re looking for a quick romance novella for the holidays! 5/5 stars.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author for review purposes.
Disclaimer: I received a complimentary ARC copy of this book from the author for review purposes.
December 30, 2023
Mistletoe in the City is a sweet story about two young people searching for their path in life - and finding that they can begin that path together.
This is a great read for you if you enjoy couples that fall in love and into bed quickly, and if you like the jealous semi-ex trope.
I found Derek and Krista's first date a little creepy - they see a dress in while window shopping and he says he'd tear it off her if she were wearing it ... but there are plenty of readers out there who like this quick chemistry.
This novella is a quick read with a happy ending.
I read one of Amber Daulton's other books, Trevor's Redemption, and enjoyed it even more, so if you like this one, give her others a try!
This is a great read for you if you enjoy couples that fall in love and into bed quickly, and if you like the jealous semi-ex trope.
I found Derek and Krista's first date a little creepy - they see a dress in while window shopping and he says he'd tear it off her if she were wearing it ... but there are plenty of readers out there who like this quick chemistry.
This novella is a quick read with a happy ending.
I read one of Amber Daulton's other books, Trevor's Redemption, and enjoyed it even more, so if you like this one, give her others a try!
September 27, 2024
This was a cute, quick read. The idea was fun, it's an interesting concept, and I thought that the prose held up well. I think Amber has a very distinct voice, her descriptions are pretty and easy to visualize. I don't read much romance anymore, so this was a nice dip back into the genre.
I think what didn't work for me was the way the characters felt so much younger than their canonical ages. They say and do things that didn't feel reflective of their life stages at all, though I also think that's completely objective, and anyone else might disagree with me. It just pulled me out of it while I was reading.
Overall, this book is very sweet! You can tell how much work was put into it. I think you have something good here!
I think what didn't work for me was the way the characters felt so much younger than their canonical ages. They say and do things that didn't feel reflective of their life stages at all, though I also think that's completely objective, and anyone else might disagree with me. It just pulled me out of it while I was reading.
Overall, this book is very sweet! You can tell how much work was put into it. I think you have something good here!
October 18, 2023
ARC Review
Mistletoe in the City by Amber Daulton is a Holiday Romance.
A sweet and steamy story perfect for the upcoming holidays. It's a second-chance romance between two new adult characters. They were each other's unrequited love and a few years later they had the chance to be together. Their love story was a bit rocky with their issues but it was definitely worth it. I loved that it was a realistic romance with down-to-earth characters. Derek was more likable than Krista because he was all in while she drew back a lot.
My favorite moments were their steamy love scenes and the baking.
If you're looking for a quick read for Christmas then this is for you.
Mistletoe in the City by Amber Daulton is a Holiday Romance.
A sweet and steamy story perfect for the upcoming holidays. It's a second-chance romance between two new adult characters. They were each other's unrequited love and a few years later they had the chance to be together. Their love story was a bit rocky with their issues but it was definitely worth it. I loved that it was a realistic romance with down-to-earth characters. Derek was more likable than Krista because he was all in while she drew back a lot.
My favorite moments were their steamy love scenes and the baking.
If you're looking for a quick read for Christmas then this is for you.
March 14, 2024
The first thing that drew me into this story was the well-done and descriptive writing. I enjoyed the setting of the story and the lead-up on how the characters met each other after years of separation. I loved the idea of highschool crushes who were too shy to talk to one another, yet gain their confidence as they get a little older.
One of my favorite parts of this book was when we first meet Derek. I was immediately drawn in by his confidence, charm, and clumsiness. When he wants something, he goes after it with no hesitation. The author did a great job at creating likeable characters and great chemistry. Definitely worth a read if you enjoy great characters and holiday romances.
One of my favorite parts of this book was when we first meet Derek. I was immediately drawn in by his confidence, charm, and clumsiness. When he wants something, he goes after it with no hesitation. The author did a great job at creating likeable characters and great chemistry. Definitely worth a read if you enjoy great characters and holiday romances.
November 21, 2024
This is a delightful holiday romance perfect for a quick, heartwarming read. Derek Weston, a handyman with a complicated past, reconnects with his high school crush, Krista Hartley when she moves into his family’s apartment complex. Krista, determined to start fresh, didn’t plan on falling for Derek, but his charm and warmth pulled her in. Their chemistry is undeniable, but jealousy and misunderstandings threaten their blossoming romance. This novella delivers a sweet and steamy story with just the right amount of drama and holiday cheer. The characters are relatable, and the romance feels genuine. Perfect for fans of feel-good holiday tales with a spicy twist and a satisfying HEA.
October 24, 2023
I would give it a 4.6 but I rounded it off. Love this cute, sweet love story. it is part of a series but the author has a way of roping you in and having you understand without reading the other part of the series. This is young love and now that they live in the same apartment building a love is blossoming. They knew each other in school. It's a quick read but I wish it was a little longer to seem realistic about their love. Great read, I got this as a review and am giving this review honestly.
November 8, 2023
A Hot Holiday Novella...
This was a quick enjoyable read! Derek and Krista crushed on each other in high school, now fate brings them back into each other's orbits... will they take a chance on each other?
Krista made me feel like I was on a see saw with her actions and emotions... so much happens in this short read that brings you the ups and downs of a relationship, holiday cheer and steamy scenes!
This was a quick enjoyable read! Derek and Krista crushed on each other in high school, now fate brings them back into each other's orbits... will they take a chance on each other?
Krista made me feel like I was on a see saw with her actions and emotions... so much happens in this short read that brings you the ups and downs of a relationship, holiday cheer and steamy scenes!
December 9, 2023
ARC review: I received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Mistletoe in the City is a short and sweet holiday romance. Second chance romance that kicks into gear super early in the book. I found that the plot wasn't as substantial, and it focused more on Derek's forwardness into the romance department. The characters are young, and I felt a bit on the older side for this one (late 30s). Overall, it's a quick read that allows for an easy escape.
Mistletoe in the City is a short and sweet holiday romance. Second chance romance that kicks into gear super early in the book. I found that the plot wasn't as substantial, and it focused more on Derek's forwardness into the romance department. The characters are young, and I felt a bit on the older side for this one (late 30s). Overall, it's a quick read that allows for an easy escape.
November 4, 2023
Mistletoe in the City
This sharply written contemporary romance by Amber Daulton cleverly draws the reader in. Derek and Krista never dated at school, but it seems they both had designs on one another. They meet later by chance and the heat quickly ramps up, and a feverish love steps in. But true love never runs smooth does it. A good holiday read for sure.
This sharply written contemporary romance by Amber Daulton cleverly draws the reader in. Derek and Krista never dated at school, but it seems they both had designs on one another. They meet later by chance and the heat quickly ramps up, and a feverish love steps in. But true love never runs smooth does it. A good holiday read for sure.
November 14, 2025
This story delivers exactly what it promises. It is a steamy, holiday novella with warmth and spice. The characters are young, and their choices absolutely reflect that, which adds a believable charm to their heartfelt journey. I wish it had been a full-length novel, because I would’ve loved to see more character development and spend more time with these characters in their world.
January 9, 2024
A sweet short story of a second chance romance. I enjoyed this book and recommend this Christmas themed, slightly steamy, tale of two people who didn’t connect in high school, but realized they were meant for each other as adults.
May 8, 2024
Steamy and Hits the Right Spots
This story is as advertised. A steamy novella with enough holiday cheer to help you through the darkest Christmas season. The characters are young and their actions show it. I enjoyed watching them figure out how to handle heavy relationship issues. Quick and satisfying.
This story is as advertised. A steamy novella with enough holiday cheer to help you through the darkest Christmas season. The characters are young and their actions show it. I enjoyed watching them figure out how to handle heavy relationship issues. Quick and satisfying.
July 16, 2025
Mistletoe in the City (Kindle Edition) by Amber Daulton (Goodreads Author) is a mature read featuring characters like Derek and Krista who engage in romantic flings. For some reason, it didn't capture my attention as much as the other novels, but it was still a good read.
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