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Over the Top Love #2
Holiday Vibes
Working for a sex toy company after failing to make it in the art world, Jessie Foley knows a di—er, phallus—when she sees one. And her brother’s best friend—the reason she can’t paint—is definitely a phallus. She’d rather drink bad eggnog than stay under the same roof as the annoyingly hot celebrity for the holidays, but patching up her relationship with her brother means making nice with his friend.
Nic Fontana’s shirtless smolder rocketed him to the top of a massive superhero franchise even though he can’t act. Reeling from a recent divorce, unhappy in Hollywood, and facing a challenging script and a new director, he needs the support of the closest thing he has to a family now more than ever. What he doesn’t need is a dangerous attraction to his harshest critic, Jessie.
When a pair of mistletoe underwear spark a sexy encounter and the start of a secret holiday fling, Nic and Jessie are forced to come to terms with their complicated past and deeply-buried feelings. But when the holidays end, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
HOLIDAY VIBES is the second book in the Over the Top Love series. This enemies-with-benefits, brother’s best friend romance features a grumpy hero and a snarky, unlikable heroine finding their Happily Ever After. It can be read as a standalone. It also contains explicit sex scenes and strong language. Content notes can be found on the author’s website.
Nic Fontana’s shirtless smolder rocketed him to the top of a massive superhero franchise even though he can’t act. Reeling from a recent divorce, unhappy in Hollywood, and facing a challenging script and a new director, he needs the support of the closest thing he has to a family now more than ever. What he doesn’t need is a dangerous attraction to his harshest critic, Jessie.
When a pair of mistletoe underwear spark a sexy encounter and the start of a secret holiday fling, Nic and Jessie are forced to come to terms with their complicated past and deeply-buried feelings. But when the holidays end, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
HOLIDAY VIBES is the second book in the Over the Top Love series. This enemies-with-benefits, brother’s best friend romance features a grumpy hero and a snarky, unlikable heroine finding their Happily Ever After. It can be read as a standalone. It also contains explicit sex scenes and strong language. Content notes can be found on the author’s website.
332 pages, ebook
Published November 24, 2023
24 people are currently reading
464 people want to read
About the author
Sarah Brenton
6 books46 followersSarah Brenton (she/her) writes steamy, sex positive romance from rom coms to contemporaries (and maybe beyond?). She lives in New Zealand with her husband (a silver fox), two kids (ratbags), and two cats (also ratbags). She spends her days working in a beautiful vineyard dreaming up new stories to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
April 14, 2025
Oh my lord, I had a really good time reading it. The characters were likable and felt real, which is important to me.
It had a mix of emotions - sweetness, spice, sadness, frustration, humor, and insecurities - all in one book. Wow, that's something worth reading!
Jessie describing herself -
"𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘶𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘺. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵-𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘨𝘳𝘶𝘥𝘨𝘦-𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘦."
We love a self-aware main character 👏
Nic was a famous hero and he wasn't doing well as an actor. He was really insecure about his acting skills. This dichotomy between his heroic persona and struggling artist side made him even more intriguing and real.
Nic had no one other than Timothy (his best friend and Jessie's brother) and Jessie's family, so his concern about losing them, or if their bond became strained because of his relationship with Jessie, or if he ever ended up hurting her even unintentionally - this concern was really believable. I really liked how the author handled this topic; it makes the characters feel real, ngl. It added a layer of authenticity to their relationships.
One important thing I'd like to discuss is how the author described mmc having a semi long dick. I'm not an expert on men's private part but I guess all men on Earth doesn't have an 8 inches long penis. While in the book's universe, all the MMCs, even the side characters, have enormous size, like come on. This thing made the MMC real. I'd like to appreciate the author for this. It's such a healthy approach. 👏 I remember watching a thriller show where the MMC was bullied because of his size, and it was heartbreaking. 🤧
I really loved this family's bonding and humor.
It was more than just a holiday romance for me.
Thank you some much Victory Editing and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
It had a mix of emotions - sweetness, spice, sadness, frustration, humor, and insecurities - all in one book. Wow, that's something worth reading!
Jessie describing herself -
"𝘛𝘩𝘦𝘳𝘦’𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘱𝘦𝘤𝘪𝘢𝘭 𝘢𝘣𝘰𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘢𝘳𝘵. 𝘑𝘶𝘴𝘵 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘴𝘶𝘤𝘤𝘦𝘴𝘴𝘧𝘶𝘭 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘈𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘥𝘢, 𝘯𝘰𝘵 𝘧𝘶𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘬𝘦 𝘛𝘪𝘮𝘰𝘵𝘩𝘺. 𝘐’𝘮 𝘢 𝘴𝘩𝘰𝘳𝘵-𝘵𝘦𝘮𝘱𝘦𝘳𝘦𝘥, 𝘨𝘳𝘶𝘥𝘨𝘦-𝘩𝘰𝘭𝘥𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘣𝘪𝘵𝘤𝘩 𝘸𝘩𝘰 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘳𝘦𝘫𝘦𝘤𝘵𝘪𝘰𝘯 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘴 𝘰𝘯 𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘵𝘦."
We love a self-aware main character 👏
Nic was a famous hero and he wasn't doing well as an actor. He was really insecure about his acting skills. This dichotomy between his heroic persona and struggling artist side made him even more intriguing and real.
Nic had no one other than Timothy (his best friend and Jessie's brother) and Jessie's family, so his concern about losing them, or if their bond became strained because of his relationship with Jessie, or if he ever ended up hurting her even unintentionally - this concern was really believable. I really liked how the author handled this topic; it makes the characters feel real, ngl. It added a layer of authenticity to their relationships.
One important thing I'd like to discuss is how the author described mmc having a semi long dick. I'm not an expert on men's private part but I guess all men on Earth doesn't have an 8 inches long penis. While in the book's universe, all the MMCs, even the side characters, have enormous size, like come on. This thing made the MMC real. I'd like to appreciate the author for this. It's such a healthy approach. 👏 I remember watching a thriller show where the MMC was bullied because of his size, and it was heartbreaking. 🤧
I really loved this family's bonding and humor.
It was more than just a holiday romance for me.
Thank you some much Victory Editing and Netgalley for an ARC of this book.
January 11, 2024
Cuuuuuute!
October 8, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
✨️ Enemies to lovers
✨️ Brother's best friend
✨️ Holiday romance
✨️ Grumpy MMC
" I've come so close to kissing that fucking look of her face more times than she could ever know."
" He smells to good, like home. "
" She is not out of my system. She is my system."
I can't find words to describe how much I loved this book.
I had just finished the first book in the series and immediately dove into this one. Nic had me hooked since the first book, and I was dying to know more about him and Jessie, and it was totally worth it.
Nic and Jessie have known each other since their teenage years and never got along. Well, at least that's what they tell themselves. I love it when characters have been secretly in love with each other forever but don't believe the other feels the same.
I have to say, I loved Jessie. Every time she countered Nic; it was fantastic to read. The chemistry between them is off the charts. Their scenes are full of fun, great banter, and cute moments. When they started getting closer, and Nic became so sweet, it was... 🫠
I lost count of how many times I caught myself smiling while reading this book. I loved every moment, and I highly recommend it.
💞Please read this book. 💞
Realese date: 11/24
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. But all opinions are my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Victory Editing, for sending me this ARC.
🌶🌶
✨️ Enemies to lovers
✨️ Brother's best friend
✨️ Holiday romance
✨️ Grumpy MMC
" I've come so close to kissing that fucking look of her face more times than she could ever know."
" He smells to good, like home. "
" She is not out of my system. She is my system."
I can't find words to describe how much I loved this book.
I had just finished the first book in the series and immediately dove into this one. Nic had me hooked since the first book, and I was dying to know more about him and Jessie, and it was totally worth it.
Nic and Jessie have known each other since their teenage years and never got along. Well, at least that's what they tell themselves. I love it when characters have been secretly in love with each other forever but don't believe the other feels the same.
I have to say, I loved Jessie. Every time she countered Nic; it was fantastic to read. The chemistry between them is off the charts. Their scenes are full of fun, great banter, and cute moments. When they started getting closer, and Nic became so sweet, it was... 🫠
I lost count of how many times I caught myself smiling while reading this book. I loved every moment, and I highly recommend it.
💞Please read this book. 💞
Realese date: 11/24
I received an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review. But all opinions are my own.
Thank you, NetGalley and Victory Editing, for sending me this ARC.
November 26, 2023
Being that it is November, I decided it was time to start my holiday reading. I am glad that I started with this one. This was a super cute romantic comedy. Brother’s best friend is one of my favorite tropes, so I had high expectations for this book. I will have to say that it didn’t disappoint me. Everything was included, like a horrible ex boyfriend, great banter and chemistry, and jaded trust issues. All of these are the recipe for a good story.
Nic is a very lovable character. He bakes, which is always charming. He is also very hesitant about having any real feelings for anyone, since his ex-wife only married him for show. Jessie has always had a crush on her family friend, but was always hesitant to give into it because her family is Nic’s second family, and she wouldn’t want there to be any hard feelings if things never work out. Also, the many references to her job are hilarious!
I completely understand the hesitancy on both sides to give in to their chemistry. But honestly, who thought it was a good idea for a holiday fling, knowing that things would be awkward in the future?! I love that everyone else in the family was silently cheering them on and waiting for them to get together. I got frustrated at times, because I was just ready for them to give in to their feelings, not just have a holiday fling. Overall, this was a really cute and funny holiday rom-com. I would give this a solid 4 out of 5.
Nic is a very lovable character. He bakes, which is always charming. He is also very hesitant about having any real feelings for anyone, since his ex-wife only married him for show. Jessie has always had a crush on her family friend, but was always hesitant to give into it because her family is Nic’s second family, and she wouldn’t want there to be any hard feelings if things never work out. Also, the many references to her job are hilarious!
I completely understand the hesitancy on both sides to give in to their chemistry. But honestly, who thought it was a good idea for a holiday fling, knowing that things would be awkward in the future?! I love that everyone else in the family was silently cheering them on and waiting for them to get together. I got frustrated at times, because I was just ready for them to give in to their feelings, not just have a holiday fling. Overall, this was a really cute and funny holiday rom-com. I would give this a solid 4 out of 5.
December 4, 2023
Sarah Brenton, with only 2 published books under her belt, is quickly establishing herself as an autobuy author for me. I enjoyed her first book in the Over The Top Love series (Love and Other Risky Business) well enough to read #2, and it did not disappoint! Nic and Jessie were well drawn characters, and the spice was spicin'! 🥵 The toy scene where some "watching" was going on? Holy moly...
I am looking forward to the last book in the trilogy, The Villain Edit, and Brenton's unique take on the Foley family. ♥️
I am looking forward to the last book in the trilogy, The Villain Edit, and Brenton's unique take on the Foley family. ♥️
October 28, 2023
Jessie + Nic 🫶 New favorite holiday romance! Swoony and spicy wrapped into one adorable story. I love the characters, chemistry, and the sweet story line. The fast pace made this incredibly hard to put down. Will definitely be reading again. My review is a 5/5 for content, and 4/5 for spice 🌶️. I loved every page.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC! All comments are my own.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thank you to the publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the ARC! All comments are my own.
November 23, 2023
Rating: 4/5
Spice: 3/5
2nd in the over the top love series, can be read as a standalone.
We are in the midst of holiday novel releases and when I came across this and read the blurb I was immediately drawn to it.
This book was SO MUCH FUN!
I am usually not the kind to love a third act breakup due to miscommunication, but in this one? It. just. works.
The Foley family was chaos and loud and unhinged and reminded me a bit of my own family and I adored how they viewed Nic as one of their own. The whole time you are reading this really breathes christmas and the holidays and the title of the book couldn’t be more accurate. I just wanted to curl up with a hot chocolate (maybe spike it with Baileys? I need to try this, it sounds delicious) and sit by the christmas tree reading.
The steam was incredible and that scene where Nic walks into the bathroom and gets caught by Jessie, I was laughing my ass off.
The emotions between Nic and Jessie, their insecurities, how Jessie is desperate to make the relationship with her twin brother better. It’s such a sweet love story of two people trying their best to open up to each other, but being afraid to get hurt yet again. Jessie’s hurt really struck a chord in me and I really felt for her.
This is also where the part comes in where I actually understand the miscommunication and third act breakup. It’s 2 people who have known each other for over 20 years and a lot has happened between them. Hurt people hurt people and when you throw in a ‘frenemies with benefits’ situation in the mix it is bound to go horribly wrong.
Thanks to Netgalley and Victory editing for providing an ARC.
Spice: 3/5
2nd in the over the top love series, can be read as a standalone.
We are in the midst of holiday novel releases and when I came across this and read the blurb I was immediately drawn to it.
This book was SO MUCH FUN!
I am usually not the kind to love a third act breakup due to miscommunication, but in this one? It. just. works.
The Foley family was chaos and loud and unhinged and reminded me a bit of my own family and I adored how they viewed Nic as one of their own. The whole time you are reading this really breathes christmas and the holidays and the title of the book couldn’t be more accurate. I just wanted to curl up with a hot chocolate (maybe spike it with Baileys? I need to try this, it sounds delicious) and sit by the christmas tree reading.
The steam was incredible and that scene where Nic walks into the bathroom and gets caught by Jessie, I was laughing my ass off.
The emotions between Nic and Jessie, their insecurities, how Jessie is desperate to make the relationship with her twin brother better. It’s such a sweet love story of two people trying their best to open up to each other, but being afraid to get hurt yet again. Jessie’s hurt really struck a chord in me and I really felt for her.
This is also where the part comes in where I actually understand the miscommunication and third act breakup. It’s 2 people who have known each other for over 20 years and a lot has happened between them. Hurt people hurt people and when you throw in a ‘frenemies with benefits’ situation in the mix it is bound to go horribly wrong.
Thanks to Netgalley and Victory editing for providing an ARC.
July 21, 2025
2.5 ish stars ⭐️
There were some funny and enjoyable moments but there were also some weird and annoying moments tbh 😵💫
Picking up the Holiday Vibes mainly because Jessie (the FMC) worked in a sex toy company, I was really looking forward to reading about sex positive characters / environments but I personally feel like the amount of jokes, punch lines and scenes—normal moments like baking cookies—were overdone and overpowered by dick jokes (and other shenanigans) to the point where I just sighed anything dick related was mentioned... 😬
Now that I know what the Holiday Vibes is about, I actually wouldn't mind giving it another read to add more to this review.
P.S. I've got beef with Jessie's twin brother 😒 lol thx!
~ Thank you Sarah Brenton and NetGalley for providing me with this ARC in exchange for my honest review ~
October 3, 2023
The holidays have finally arrived y'all. Somewhere, someone is thawing Mariah out of her ice cube...I can hear the first strains of her lyrical genius.... I'm a sucker for enemies to lovers, you know this. Add in a sex positive family, a heroine that helps market sex toys, and a marvel-esque superhero playing hero, and you got yourselves a hit. I absolutely adored the second installment of the Over The Top Love series, Holiday Vibes, by Sarah Brenton. It's a steamy, comedic romp with a really intriguing and delightful cast of characters.
Christmas vacation is going to suck, at least, it will for Jessie Foley. Unable to excuse her way out of another year of familial festive tidings, Jessie figures she at least won't be subjected to the presence of her nemesis, Nic Fontana. Nic Fontana has spent the last 5 years in a loveless marriage with the wrong woman. He runs home to celebrate with the one family that has always treated him as one of their ranks, The Foleys. He gears himself up for an entire week celebrating the holidays with the one person in the world that hates him above anyone else, Jessie, his best friends twin sister. After a very sexy confrontation in a laundry room leads to a no-strings holiday fling, both Jessie and Nic strive to keep from catching feelings but also possibly finding a middle ground. Mistletoe, watercolors, and a tiny stuffed teddy bear prove that maybe Nic and Jessie should consider a truce, at least until New Years.
What I liked about this book:
The Lead Characters are wonderful. Both are fully fleshed out and their dual perspectives work so well here. You quickly understand what the Foley's mean to Nic and why getting along with Jessie or at least being on neutral ground is vital to having access to the group of people he considers a lifeline and they consider him one their own. Both Jessie and Nic are torn as to what exactly they want to do with their lives; they are both questions whether they are happy with the trajectory of their careers or whether a change is required.
The secondary characters are lovely; Celia, the matriarch of the Foley family is a blast. If you're picturing Martha Stewart post prison then you're on the right track. Everyone in the Foley clan is famous or celebrity-adjacent in some manner. In other books, this might prevent the reader from relating or forming connections with the characters, however, Brenton paints a truly quirky cast of lovable eccentrics.
We have a heroine with a lower key grand gesture (maybe a venti gesturi?) This VG/GG occurs after both the hero and heroine put in the work to not only mend what's broken inside (or begin to) and make some realistic and oftentimes tough decisions. Warning, the 3rd act breakup is rough - my heart hurt a lot.
Lastly, this book is hot folx. Real hot. I mean, our girl works at a sex toy company...so just know that those come into play at some point.
There wasn't much I didn't like. If I have one gripe it's that I would have like to have seen more of the trio of Jessi, Timothy, and Nic growing up. So we could see the pining. But I will say, I really liked the angle Brenton has for why there was a falling out between Jessie and Nic as teens. It works real well.
Christmas vacation is going to suck, at least, it will for Jessie Foley. Unable to excuse her way out of another year of familial festive tidings, Jessie figures she at least won't be subjected to the presence of her nemesis, Nic Fontana. Nic Fontana has spent the last 5 years in a loveless marriage with the wrong woman. He runs home to celebrate with the one family that has always treated him as one of their ranks, The Foleys. He gears himself up for an entire week celebrating the holidays with the one person in the world that hates him above anyone else, Jessie, his best friends twin sister. After a very sexy confrontation in a laundry room leads to a no-strings holiday fling, both Jessie and Nic strive to keep from catching feelings but also possibly finding a middle ground. Mistletoe, watercolors, and a tiny stuffed teddy bear prove that maybe Nic and Jessie should consider a truce, at least until New Years.
What I liked about this book:
The Lead Characters are wonderful. Both are fully fleshed out and their dual perspectives work so well here. You quickly understand what the Foley's mean to Nic and why getting along with Jessie or at least being on neutral ground is vital to having access to the group of people he considers a lifeline and they consider him one their own. Both Jessie and Nic are torn as to what exactly they want to do with their lives; they are both questions whether they are happy with the trajectory of their careers or whether a change is required.
The secondary characters are lovely; Celia, the matriarch of the Foley family is a blast. If you're picturing Martha Stewart post prison then you're on the right track. Everyone in the Foley clan is famous or celebrity-adjacent in some manner. In other books, this might prevent the reader from relating or forming connections with the characters, however, Brenton paints a truly quirky cast of lovable eccentrics.
We have a heroine with a lower key grand gesture (maybe a venti gesturi?) This VG/GG occurs after both the hero and heroine put in the work to not only mend what's broken inside (or begin to) and make some realistic and oftentimes tough decisions. Warning, the 3rd act breakup is rough - my heart hurt a lot.
Lastly, this book is hot folx. Real hot. I mean, our girl works at a sex toy company...so just know that those come into play at some point.
There wasn't much I didn't like. If I have one gripe it's that I would have like to have seen more of the trio of Jessi, Timothy, and Nic growing up. So we could see the pining. But I will say, I really liked the angle Brenton has for why there was a falling out between Jessie and Nic as teens. It works real well.
November 24, 2023
I picked this book because I was intrigued by the idea of a heroine who works at a sex toy company. I love sex positive heroines and I enjoy a good celebrity romance.
This book had some really fun moments and good characters. I liked Jessie's family even though they were a bit chaotic. However, I got a bit tired of the jokes about Jessie's career. I wish the story had focused a bit more on her job celebrating women's pleasure and a little less on how many dick jokes could be made.
I was also a little confused about Jessie and Nic. It felt like this book was trying to do enemies to lover and I loved you all along and it didn't completely work for me.
This one may be for you if you love brother's best friend and want something fun!
Thanks to Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an early copy in order to write my review. All opinions are my own.
This book had some really fun moments and good characters. I liked Jessie's family even though they were a bit chaotic. However, I got a bit tired of the jokes about Jessie's career. I wish the story had focused a bit more on her job celebrating women's pleasure and a little less on how many dick jokes could be made.
I was also a little confused about Jessie and Nic. It felt like this book was trying to do enemies to lover and I loved you all along and it didn't completely work for me.
This one may be for you if you love brother's best friend and want something fun!
Thanks to Netgalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an early copy in order to write my review. All opinions are my own.
January 7, 2024
Jessie and Nic have been more or less enemies forever and are basically at war with their family over Christmas.
The attraction is there, but Nic still has to figure out what he wants from his life and whether he still wants to be an action star.
I really liked the story and felt for both Jessie and Nic, because sometimes decisions aren't that easy to make, especially when there's a whole continent in between.
Have fun reading for yourself!
The attraction is there, but Nic still has to figure out what he wants from his life and whether he still wants to be an action star.
I really liked the story and felt for both Jessie and Nic, because sometimes decisions aren't that easy to make, especially when there's a whole continent in between.
Have fun reading for yourself!
October 5, 2023
I received a digital ARC provided by Victory Editing and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Holiday Vibes by Sarah Brenton is set to release November 24th, 2023.
⭐️4/5⭐️
Unable to make it in the art industry Jessie Foley now works for Sploosh!, a sex toy company. When Jessie goes home for Christmas she has to work through her troubles of why she no longer can paint, the relationship with her brother, and her strong hatred for her brothers best friend, Nic. Jessie could make a list of a million things she would rather do than stay under the same roof as him.
Making it big in Hollywood for his superhero acting role, Nic is spiraling. His recent divorce and being unhappy with his career have Nic accompanying Timothy home for the holidays because he has no family of his own. On top of eveything going on in his life now he has to face Jessie, his best friends sister and work through his attraction to her.
Holiday Vibes follows Jessie and Nic as they participate in all of the Foley’s wild holiday traditions all while working on themselves and their undeniable attraction to each other.
I'm rating Holiday Vibes 4 out of 5 stars. This book was a quick and easy read with a good amout of spice throughout. The Foley traditions of baking, caroling, and snowball fights have me excited for the holiday season. It took me some time to begin to like both Jessie and Nic. It was around the 50% mark that we go in depth history of the two. My only other qualm is Jessie repeatedly referring to Timothy as "my twin".
Over all, if you are looking for a fun holiday romance that has all the Christmas spirit, you’re in the right place. Whether you sit by a starlit Christmas tree or by a warm fireplace, Holiday Vibes is the perfect read this holiday season!
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. #HolidayVibes #NetGalley
_____
Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
Check out my aesthetic board for Holiday Vibes and other titles on Pinterest!
Holiday Vibes by Sarah Brenton is set to release November 24th, 2023.
⭐️4/5⭐️
Unable to make it in the art industry Jessie Foley now works for Sploosh!, a sex toy company. When Jessie goes home for Christmas she has to work through her troubles of why she no longer can paint, the relationship with her brother, and her strong hatred for her brothers best friend, Nic. Jessie could make a list of a million things she would rather do than stay under the same roof as him.
Making it big in Hollywood for his superhero acting role, Nic is spiraling. His recent divorce and being unhappy with his career have Nic accompanying Timothy home for the holidays because he has no family of his own. On top of eveything going on in his life now he has to face Jessie, his best friends sister and work through his attraction to her.
Holiday Vibes follows Jessie and Nic as they participate in all of the Foley’s wild holiday traditions all while working on themselves and their undeniable attraction to each other.
I'm rating Holiday Vibes 4 out of 5 stars. This book was a quick and easy read with a good amout of spice throughout. The Foley traditions of baking, caroling, and snowball fights have me excited for the holiday season. It took me some time to begin to like both Jessie and Nic. It was around the 50% mark that we go in depth history of the two. My only other qualm is Jessie repeatedly referring to Timothy as "my twin".
Over all, if you are looking for a fun holiday romance that has all the Christmas spirit, you’re in the right place. Whether you sit by a starlit Christmas tree or by a warm fireplace, Holiday Vibes is the perfect read this holiday season!
Thank you to Victory Editing and NetGalley for an ARC of this book. #HolidayVibes #NetGalley
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Opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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December 10, 2023
This was super cute! I love love love the family dynamics and immediately went to download book one to read Timothy & Mina’s story. Jessie and Nic were so sweet, so much pining and so sexy. I do feel like the miscommunication was a little too much but the way that the family dynamics played out in it, especially with Timothy and Jessie was really sweet.
September 16, 2023
This is the second book in the "Over the top Love" trilogy and it tells the story of Jessie and Nic. Those two have known each other since they were teenagers since Nic was a neighbour and the best friend of Jessie's twin-brother Timothy and they were always more enemies than friends - even though Nic is a honorary member of the Foley family. Now they have to spend two weeks with Jessie's family over Christmas...
I really loved the book: it was funny, fast-paced, full of entertaining characters and the bedroom scenes were hot.. I felt for Jessie and wanted to smack Nic sometimes and when I finished the book I wanted to keep on reading. I definitely have to read "Love and other risky business" asap.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.com and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really loved the book: it was funny, fast-paced, full of entertaining characters and the bedroom scenes were hot.. I felt for Jessie and wanted to smack Nic sometimes and when I finished the book I wanted to keep on reading. I definitely have to read "Love and other risky business" asap.
I received an ARC via Netgalley.com and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2023
Loved loved loved this! I had no idea what to expect going in and it just hit every single thing I was looking for. It reminded me a bit of In a Holidaze in the best way, just in terms of general vibes and how happy it made me (this is definitely spicier though!).
The tension and chemistry and steam were SO good, but there were also really sweet moments and some great character development. I honestly loved Jessie so much, I found her so relatable (even though I think she's meant to be kind of unlikeable? I don't know what this says about me, haha). The over-the-top family shenanigans, while totally NOT relatable to my own family get-togethers, were absolutely hilarious and heartwarming at the same time.
This was just so much fun and I had such a hard time putting it down. Books like this are why I will continue to sign up for random ARCs, because you just never know when you'll come across something amazing! (And apologies to my family for ignoring them over Thanksgiving because I was too busy reading this absolute delight.)
Don't miss this one if you like:
- brother's best friend
- dislike to lovers
- forced proximity
- just a hookup
- sneaking around
- family matchmakers
Thank you so much Sarah Brenton for the review copy!
The tension and chemistry and steam were SO good, but there were also really sweet moments and some great character development. I honestly loved Jessie so much, I found her so relatable (even though I think she's meant to be kind of unlikeable? I don't know what this says about me, haha). The over-the-top family shenanigans, while totally NOT relatable to my own family get-togethers, were absolutely hilarious and heartwarming at the same time.
This was just so much fun and I had such a hard time putting it down. Books like this are why I will continue to sign up for random ARCs, because you just never know when you'll come across something amazing! (And apologies to my family for ignoring them over Thanksgiving because I was too busy reading this absolute delight.)
Don't miss this one if you like:
- brother's best friend
- dislike to lovers
- forced proximity
- just a hookup
- sneaking around
- family matchmakers
Thank you so much Sarah Brenton for the review copy!
November 1, 2023
2.5 stars
Publishers have got to stop saying that second-in-a-series books can be read as standalones. Holiday Vibes falls victim to this marketing fail and (maybe because of it) really didn’t work for me. To be fair, the basic plot works without having read the prior book, but you lose a lot of the nuance of character motivation and emotional connection.
I’m not sure if I would’ve liked the story more if I’d read the first book in the series, but thats water under the bridge. As it was, I didn’t really enjoy the relationship between the two main characters. It’s enemies to lovers but even as enemies they are obsessed with each other… and not in a cute way. It reads more as “my annoying friend won’t shut about the dude she supposedly hates” and less “these two clearly have underlying issues to resolve but i love watching them work it out”.
HOWEVER, this book has really great reviews on Goodreads and NetGalley. I’m guessing that with the right set up (ahem, actually reading the first book in the series) this book could be a winner. I like the style of the book and the plot enough that I’ll probably check out the first book to give this series another shot.
TLDR: I didn’t love it. Maybe it’s a good read but definitely start with book 1 (love and other risky business).
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted copy.
Publishers have got to stop saying that second-in-a-series books can be read as standalones. Holiday Vibes falls victim to this marketing fail and (maybe because of it) really didn’t work for me. To be fair, the basic plot works without having read the prior book, but you lose a lot of the nuance of character motivation and emotional connection.
I’m not sure if I would’ve liked the story more if I’d read the first book in the series, but thats water under the bridge. As it was, I didn’t really enjoy the relationship between the two main characters. It’s enemies to lovers but even as enemies they are obsessed with each other… and not in a cute way. It reads more as “my annoying friend won’t shut about the dude she supposedly hates” and less “these two clearly have underlying issues to resolve but i love watching them work it out”.
HOWEVER, this book has really great reviews on Goodreads and NetGalley. I’m guessing that with the right set up (ahem, actually reading the first book in the series) this book could be a winner. I like the style of the book and the plot enough that I’ll probably check out the first book to give this series another shot.
TLDR: I didn’t love it. Maybe it’s a good read but definitely start with book 1 (love and other risky business).
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the gifted copy.
December 17, 2023
Over The Top is the perfect name for this series because this book was so ridiculous at times I thought about not finishing it.
Jessie Foley is coming home for Christmas to her big, loud, fun family. Included is her twin brother's best friend, actor Nic Fontana. She's known Nic all her life and doesn't really like him all that much even though she's definitely attracted to him. He's been the cause of more than one heartbreak in her life. Spending this Christmas together brings up old and new feelings for them both.
My problem with this book? I hated every member of Jessie's family, except her dad who did nothing but read a book the whole time. Her brother is an absolute jerk of a human who announces he's getting married but never told his twin? Because he couldn't trust Jessie not to ruin it for him? And no one else in her family stood up for her? Honestly, no wonder Jessie wallowed in self-pity for 90% of the book. Her family sucked. Setting aside the worst of the family antics and the over the top obsession with all things penis, I give it 3 stars because Jessie deserved better than what she got in this story.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Jessie Foley is coming home for Christmas to her big, loud, fun family. Included is her twin brother's best friend, actor Nic Fontana. She's known Nic all her life and doesn't really like him all that much even though she's definitely attracted to him. He's been the cause of more than one heartbreak in her life. Spending this Christmas together brings up old and new feelings for them both.
My problem with this book? I hated every member of Jessie's family, except her dad who did nothing but read a book the whole time. Her brother is an absolute jerk of a human who announces he's getting married but never told his twin? Because he couldn't trust Jessie not to ruin it for him? And no one else in her family stood up for her? Honestly, no wonder Jessie wallowed in self-pity for 90% of the book. Her family sucked. Setting aside the worst of the family antics and the over the top obsession with all things penis, I give it 3 stars because Jessie deserved better than what she got in this story.
Thank you, NetGalley, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
January 11, 2024
I looooved "Holiday Vibes". Moments of hilarity, steam, sweetness, sadness, frustration, acceptance are all rolled into one holiday themed reading package. (Package - hahah!)
FMC Jessie loathes her brother's best friend, Nic. She feels Nic supplanted her within her family, especially in relation to her twin. She blames Nic for her biggest heartbreak and for her unwillingness to return to painting. Loathing, of course, is a short hop away from lust and maybe even love. MMC Nic, on the other hand, has always had something of a thing for Jessie, even though he knows she seemingly hates him. But some holiday themed undies and a very efficient dryer change everything.
Jessie and Nic have to navigate their new "relationship" amongst the expectations of the entire wacky Foley clan. Miscommunication and fear create havoc and heartbreak, but it is lovely to watch them work their way back together - and to watch Jessie's family figure out how to work its way back to her.
Highly recommend reading this book in front of the Christmas tree this year. 5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
FMC Jessie loathes her brother's best friend, Nic. She feels Nic supplanted her within her family, especially in relation to her twin. She blames Nic for her biggest heartbreak and for her unwillingness to return to painting. Loathing, of course, is a short hop away from lust and maybe even love. MMC Nic, on the other hand, has always had something of a thing for Jessie, even though he knows she seemingly hates him. But some holiday themed undies and a very efficient dryer change everything.
Jessie and Nic have to navigate their new "relationship" amongst the expectations of the entire wacky Foley clan. Miscommunication and fear create havoc and heartbreak, but it is lovely to watch them work their way back together - and to watch Jessie's family figure out how to work its way back to her.
Highly recommend reading this book in front of the Christmas tree this year. 5 stars. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book. The opinions in this review are my own.
December 18, 2024
DNF @ 14%
The romance was going well but omg I hate the brother. You can’t say “I proposed to my gf we’re getting married tomorrow btw” at the Xmas gathering and then when your sister says “why did you lie to me, you said you didn’t know her for that long but you’ve actually been dating for five years and didn’t tell me” use the excuse “I was worried ppl would be overly critical so I didn’t say anything “ BITCH she’s the ONLY PERSON you didn’t tell!! Your whole family besides your twin sister knew!! You can’t use that excuse!! And then the auDAcity and enTITLEment to ask her to plan your fiancée’s bachelorette???? Bc “you’re so good with girly games” ??? I HATE YOU THIS IS TEXTBOOK EMOTIONAL IMMATURITY AND WEAPONIZED INCOMPETENCE AND BEING A DICKHOLE. And then his sister is like “I hope I planned this party well! I hope she likes me!” Bye bitch accepting this behavior has no space in my reading place
The romance was going well but omg I hate the brother. You can’t say “I proposed to my gf we’re getting married tomorrow btw” at the Xmas gathering and then when your sister says “why did you lie to me, you said you didn’t know her for that long but you’ve actually been dating for five years and didn’t tell me” use the excuse “I was worried ppl would be overly critical so I didn’t say anything “ BITCH she’s the ONLY PERSON you didn’t tell!! Your whole family besides your twin sister knew!! You can’t use that excuse!! And then the auDAcity and enTITLEment to ask her to plan your fiancée’s bachelorette???? Bc “you’re so good with girly games” ??? I HATE YOU THIS IS TEXTBOOK EMOTIONAL IMMATURITY AND WEAPONIZED INCOMPETENCE AND BEING A DICKHOLE. And then his sister is like “I hope I planned this party well! I hope she likes me!” Bye bitch accepting this behavior has no space in my reading place
November 4, 2023
Holiday Vibes by Sarah Benton publication 11/24/23
Book #2 Over the Top Love series- can be read as a standalone
Jessica Foley (Jessie) and Dominic (Nic) Fontana have been enemies since they met twenty years ago. They are both home in Connecticut for a 2-week Christmas vacation. Jessie's twin brother and Nic's BFF Timothy announces he's getting married, and Jessie didn't know he had a girlfriend. Jessie and Nic are forced to hang out with the family together and help with the wedding.
The world building is so sweet it reminds me of Christmas as a child. My grandmother and cousins would come to town for the week, and we'd have a ball. The Foleys include their parents Celia and William, their sister Amanda and her wife Hazel with their 2 kids, and Nic. Nic's parents died in a car accident when he was 24, and he has always depended on the Foleys for love and comfort. Celia and Nic share their love of cooking and baking. Jessie is a painter but by day works at a sex toy company called Sploosh! There are so many naughty jokes throughout, and they are hilarious.
The romance between Jessie and Nic is brother's best friend, enemies to lovers and forced proximity. They have quite a bit of sex, both declaring it's a fling for these two weeks. Jessie choses the wrong men, her ex-boyfriend Camden an example. He spent one night with her brother and Nic, and broke things off when she thought he was going to propose. Nic's four-year marriage to now ex-wife Addison ended when she cheated on him and told the gossip magazines he cheated on her. They both believe there's no way they could actually be together. Nic is unsure about his career in LA as a superhero in Warwick films (think Marvel), and Jessie lives in NYC. I loved that their family made sure they were always together and bet money on their hook up. Timothy, his wife Mina, and their mom Celia pushed them to get out of their heads and just tell each other the truth.
If you like a family Christmas with plenty of sex toys, innuendo, and mistletoe- this book is for you. I did not read the first book about Timothy and Mina and still enjoyed HV.
Rating 4/5⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this ARC🎄! I voluntarily give my honest review and all opinions expressed are my own.
Book #2 Over the Top Love series- can be read as a standalone
Jessica Foley (Jessie) and Dominic (Nic) Fontana have been enemies since they met twenty years ago. They are both home in Connecticut for a 2-week Christmas vacation. Jessie's twin brother and Nic's BFF Timothy announces he's getting married, and Jessie didn't know he had a girlfriend. Jessie and Nic are forced to hang out with the family together and help with the wedding.
The world building is so sweet it reminds me of Christmas as a child. My grandmother and cousins would come to town for the week, and we'd have a ball. The Foleys include their parents Celia and William, their sister Amanda and her wife Hazel with their 2 kids, and Nic. Nic's parents died in a car accident when he was 24, and he has always depended on the Foleys for love and comfort. Celia and Nic share their love of cooking and baking. Jessie is a painter but by day works at a sex toy company called Sploosh! There are so many naughty jokes throughout, and they are hilarious.
The romance between Jessie and Nic is brother's best friend, enemies to lovers and forced proximity. They have quite a bit of sex, both declaring it's a fling for these two weeks. Jessie choses the wrong men, her ex-boyfriend Camden an example. He spent one night with her brother and Nic, and broke things off when she thought he was going to propose. Nic's four-year marriage to now ex-wife Addison ended when she cheated on him and told the gossip magazines he cheated on her. They both believe there's no way they could actually be together. Nic is unsure about his career in LA as a superhero in Warwick films (think Marvel), and Jessie lives in NYC. I loved that their family made sure they were always together and bet money on their hook up. Timothy, his wife Mina, and their mom Celia pushed them to get out of their heads and just tell each other the truth.
If you like a family Christmas with plenty of sex toys, innuendo, and mistletoe- this book is for you. I did not read the first book about Timothy and Mina and still enjoyed HV.
Rating 4/5⭐⭐⭐⭐
Thanks to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this ARC🎄! I voluntarily give my honest review and all opinions expressed are my own.
November 28, 2023
Sarah Brenton takes readers on a delightful and steamy journey through a unique enemies-to-lovers romance. Set against the backdrop of the holiday season, this book offers a refreshing twist to the typical love story. The protagonist, Jessie Foley, finds herself working for a sex toy company after her dreams of making it in the art world fall short. Caught in a complicated relationship with her brother's best friend, Nic Fontana, she begrudgingly agrees to spend the holidays with him in an attempt to mend her fractured bond with her brother. Brenton skillfully crafts Jessie's character as a snarky and unlikable heroine, adding depth and complexity to her personality. On the other hand, Nic is a shirtless, smoldering celebrity who skyrocketed to fame despite lacking acting skills. Dealing with a recent divorce and professional challenges, Nic seeks solace in the company of his makeshift family. However, he finds himself inexplicably drawn to Jessie, his harshest critic. Their relationship takes an unexpected turn when a pair of mistletoe underwear sparks a sizzling encounter, leading to a secret holiday fling that unravels their complicated past and buried emotions. Brenton skillfully weaves together humor, passion, and emotional depth throughout the book. The chemistry between Jessie and Nic is palpable, making their love story all the more captivating. As the plot unfolds, readers are taken on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, hoping against hope that these two will find their happily ever after. "Holiday Vibes" is the second installment in the Over the Top Love series, and it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. The author's writing style is engaging, drawing readers into the story and leaving them eager to turn each page. However, it is worth noting that this book contains explicit sex scenes and strong language, making it suitable for mature readers. Overall, "Holiday Vibes" is a delightful, sexy, and heartwarming read. Sarah Brenton's ability to create complex characters and craft a unique enemies-to-lovers tale is commendable. If you're in the mood for a holiday romance that goes beyond the typical tropes, this book is a must-read. So, grab a hot cup of cocoa, cozy up by the fire, and immerse yourself in the enticing world of "Holiday Vibes."
November 20, 2023
Okay. I’m going to be honest here, the initial impressions of this were not the best. Within the first 10% I was leaning 3 stars but I actually think this is worth the chance. Ending up at 4 stars.
Starting off we have a lot of info dumping, telling not showing. Everyone’s backstory is laid out and it almost feels like a drafted outline rather than diving into an actual story. Something about the written tense also took a minute to get used to. I also didn’t feel the chemistry between the two love interests at first. There is a spicy adjacent moment that happens early on, which normally I am all for but it was written in a way that didn’t really build tension it felt like facts described of the moment. This is first person dual POV so I was expecting more feelings and push/pull of their somewhat enemies to lovers set up. I was also pretty weirded out for why Jessie was out of the loop of something really important to her brother.
But then… the second spicy scene had heat and internal conflict. The spice was spicing. And now we’re getting covert looks while at the family table and the twisted history is getting more interesting. At first it felt a bit outlandish the way Nic is written to fit into a celebrity trope, again with the telling not showing. But then he started to feel more like a real person.
The side characters in this are great. I love Jessie’s brother and how he has this free spirit vibe where he can bounce back and forth between defending his sister when needed but also supporting his friend.
This also gives alllll the holiday celebration feelings. This feels so wintery cozy. I loved the more descriptions that came out about the house and the family traditions. It ended up super sweet.
Overall if I was beta reading this I’d suggest a re-work of the first bit, letting the details be revealed more naturally, because this does have tension and heart within its character’s dynamics and storyline and the couple did eventually win me over when some chemistry started to come through.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for this ARC!
Starting off we have a lot of info dumping, telling not showing. Everyone’s backstory is laid out and it almost feels like a drafted outline rather than diving into an actual story. Something about the written tense also took a minute to get used to. I also didn’t feel the chemistry between the two love interests at first. There is a spicy adjacent moment that happens early on, which normally I am all for but it was written in a way that didn’t really build tension it felt like facts described of the moment. This is first person dual POV so I was expecting more feelings and push/pull of their somewhat enemies to lovers set up. I was also pretty weirded out for why Jessie was out of the loop of something really important to her brother.
But then… the second spicy scene had heat and internal conflict. The spice was spicing. And now we’re getting covert looks while at the family table and the twisted history is getting more interesting. At first it felt a bit outlandish the way Nic is written to fit into a celebrity trope, again with the telling not showing. But then he started to feel more like a real person.
The side characters in this are great. I love Jessie’s brother and how he has this free spirit vibe where he can bounce back and forth between defending his sister when needed but also supporting his friend.
This also gives alllll the holiday celebration feelings. This feels so wintery cozy. I loved the more descriptions that came out about the house and the family traditions. It ended up super sweet.
Overall if I was beta reading this I’d suggest a re-work of the first bit, letting the details be revealed more naturally, because this does have tension and heart within its character’s dynamics and storyline and the couple did eventually win me over when some chemistry started to come through.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley co-op for this ARC!
January 4, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up. I’m still counting this first week of 2024 as the holidays, so I say I got this one read before the season ended. I said in my review for book 1 in this series that I saw a lot of potential, and I feel like more of that potential was realized in this second book.
This book follows Jessie and Nic’s childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers journey. They were antagonistic frenemies growing up, but have been firmly at odds in enemy territory for the past five years. When they’re forced under the same roof for weeks for Timothy and Mina’s surprised wedding, eventually Nic and Jessie have to face the real source of underlying tension that has always sparked between them.
I thought Nic and Jessie’s individual lives were well-developed and relatable. Both were trying to figure out their professional lives and what path forward they wanted to take. Jessie is an artist at heart who has’t picked up a paintbrush in five years, but has a new opportunity on the horizon if she can work through her insecurities. Nic has never loved acting but doesn’t know what else to do with his life after falling into his superhero franchise role. I liked seeing the two of them help each other face their challenges and the choices they needed to make. The tense relationship between them has a way of creating a space where they don’t sugarcoat thoughts and opinions, and it grows into something tender and honest as the animosity fades. I also appreciated the ‘found family’ aspect that Nic experienced with the Foleys and how that dynamic played into he and Jessie’s relationship in a variety of ways. It felt very genuine and something important that they had to figure out how to navigate.
I will say that I was never quite sure exactly *why* they were so angry with each other. It felt like their relationship pre-falling-out and the actual event in the moment didn’t get explored deeply enough for it to really explain how it had such an intense, lasting effect. I think this may have been a case of too much ‘tell’ and not enough ‘show’.
Overall, I thought this book built onto the parts of book one that I enjoyed and provided a strong pair of characters. I look forward to reading book three next and seeing how things continue in this universe.
This book follows Jessie and Nic’s childhood friends-to-enemies-to-lovers journey. They were antagonistic frenemies growing up, but have been firmly at odds in enemy territory for the past five years. When they’re forced under the same roof for weeks for Timothy and Mina’s surprised wedding, eventually Nic and Jessie have to face the real source of underlying tension that has always sparked between them.
I thought Nic and Jessie’s individual lives were well-developed and relatable. Both were trying to figure out their professional lives and what path forward they wanted to take. Jessie is an artist at heart who has’t picked up a paintbrush in five years, but has a new opportunity on the horizon if she can work through her insecurities. Nic has never loved acting but doesn’t know what else to do with his life after falling into his superhero franchise role. I liked seeing the two of them help each other face their challenges and the choices they needed to make. The tense relationship between them has a way of creating a space where they don’t sugarcoat thoughts and opinions, and it grows into something tender and honest as the animosity fades. I also appreciated the ‘found family’ aspect that Nic experienced with the Foleys and how that dynamic played into he and Jessie’s relationship in a variety of ways. It felt very genuine and something important that they had to figure out how to navigate.
I will say that I was never quite sure exactly *why* they were so angry with each other. It felt like their relationship pre-falling-out and the actual event in the moment didn’t get explored deeply enough for it to really explain how it had such an intense, lasting effect. I think this may have been a case of too much ‘tell’ and not enough ‘show’.
Overall, I thought this book built onto the parts of book one that I enjoyed and provided a strong pair of characters. I look forward to reading book three next and seeing how things continue in this universe.
November 14, 2023
Holiday Vibes is another heated and hilarious romp from the talented Sarah Brenton, coming out November 24, just in time for the season! If you currently have (or ever wanted) a huge, brawling family all under the same roof for a high-emotional-stakes performance of unbreakable holiday traditions, you’ll want to sneak off with this book and snort-laugh until you cry, then heat up till you combust.
Jessie Foley hasn’t painted since her twin brother’s best friend ruined it for her, like he ruined everything since they were teenagers. Luckily, he’s busy being a terrible actor who somehow landed a massive superhero franchise, so he won’t be butting in on her precious family Christmas. But when Jessie gets home for the holidays, guess who her brother brought with him? Pass the mulled wine, Christmas is gonna suck.
Nic Fontana has a killer shirtless smolder and not much else. Unhappy in his career and with no family of his own, he needs to crash with the people he’s always considered his second family. Except Jessie, who’s never felt anything like a sister, especially not when she accidentally ends up under the mistletoe with him (and let’s be honest, ends up just plain under him). But holidays don’t last forever, and when this one ends, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
The genius of Sarah Brenton is her ability to slide angry, saucy, filthy-cute enemies-to-lovers banter between two slices of bread and magically make it into a love sandwich. This book is unapologetically hot, filled with spicy snark, and crammed with the beautiful chaos of a big, boisterous, no-filter family at the most wonderful time of the year. I’m sorry about those other books that used to be your holiday comfort rereads…make room on your bookshelf for your new perennial fave.
Jessie Foley hasn’t painted since her twin brother’s best friend ruined it for her, like he ruined everything since they were teenagers. Luckily, he’s busy being a terrible actor who somehow landed a massive superhero franchise, so he won’t be butting in on her precious family Christmas. But when Jessie gets home for the holidays, guess who her brother brought with him? Pass the mulled wine, Christmas is gonna suck.
Nic Fontana has a killer shirtless smolder and not much else. Unhappy in his career and with no family of his own, he needs to crash with the people he’s always considered his second family. Except Jessie, who’s never felt anything like a sister, especially not when she accidentally ends up under the mistletoe with him (and let’s be honest, ends up just plain under him). But holidays don’t last forever, and when this one ends, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
The genius of Sarah Brenton is her ability to slide angry, saucy, filthy-cute enemies-to-lovers banter between two slices of bread and magically make it into a love sandwich. This book is unapologetically hot, filled with spicy snark, and crammed with the beautiful chaos of a big, boisterous, no-filter family at the most wonderful time of the year. I’m sorry about those other books that used to be your holiday comfort rereads…make room on your bookshelf for your new perennial fave.
November 28, 2023
Holiday Vibes is one of the funniest books I've read this year! Jessie is witty and self-deprecating and I want to be her friend! Her one-liners had me cackle-snorting through the night!
"I'll kill him. Bludgeon him to death with a dildo from the factory reject pile."
Nic is her brother's best friend. He stole her brother from her when they were teenagers and she's never quite forgiven him especially now that he's a famous actor people fawn over. The little peeks into their past add to the heart flutters and makes you wish they'd found each other so much sooner.
"I don't look like I do on screen. My muscle definition has faded and I'm not dehydrated to make the veins in my body pop."
As someone in the health and fitness industry, THANK YOU for the way Nic describes himself!! It takes a ton of sacrifice and generally an unhealthy body image to get the "superhero" body. Having Nic deal with this and being used for his muscles added much-appreciated depth to his character and what he's been through.
Jessie and Nic finally pass from frenemies to lovers in a most explosive way. One of my favorite microtropes is where she thinks they hate each other and he thinks they'd always just messed with each other, and Holiday Vibes pulls this off perfectly!
"I don't want a superhero or a celebrity. I want you. The Nic I know."
And the romance! ::swoon:: There are some seriously spicy scenes, often where they can easily be caught.
There's even a scene where HE gets caught by HER that really sets up their dynamic. Holiday Vibes may be my top contender for favorite holiday book. There is so much genuine emotion and growth between these two that you can't help but fall for them as they fall for each other.
Thank you, Sarah Brenton and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read an advanced copy if this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"I'll kill him. Bludgeon him to death with a dildo from the factory reject pile."
Nic is her brother's best friend. He stole her brother from her when they were teenagers and she's never quite forgiven him especially now that he's a famous actor people fawn over. The little peeks into their past add to the heart flutters and makes you wish they'd found each other so much sooner.
"I don't look like I do on screen. My muscle definition has faded and I'm not dehydrated to make the veins in my body pop."
As someone in the health and fitness industry, THANK YOU for the way Nic describes himself!! It takes a ton of sacrifice and generally an unhealthy body image to get the "superhero" body. Having Nic deal with this and being used for his muscles added much-appreciated depth to his character and what he's been through.
Jessie and Nic finally pass from frenemies to lovers in a most explosive way. One of my favorite microtropes is where she thinks they hate each other and he thinks they'd always just messed with each other, and Holiday Vibes pulls this off perfectly!
"I don't want a superhero or a celebrity. I want you. The Nic I know."
And the romance! ::swoon:: There are some seriously spicy scenes, often where they can easily be caught.
There's even a scene where HE gets caught by HER that really sets up their dynamic. Holiday Vibes may be my top contender for favorite holiday book. There is so much genuine emotion and growth between these two that you can't help but fall for them as they fall for each other.
Thank you, Sarah Brenton and NetGalley, for the opportunity to read an advanced copy if this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 11, 2023
If you currently have (or ever wanted) a huge, brawling family all under the same roof for a high-emotional-stakes performance of unbreakable holiday traditions, you’ll want to sneak off with this book and snort-laugh until you cry, then heat up till you combust.
Jessie Foley hasn’t painted since her twin brother’s best friend ruined it for her, like he ruined everything since they were teenagers. Luckily, he’s busy being a terrible actor who somehow landed a massive superhero franchise, so he won’t be butting in on her precious family Christmas. But when Jessie gets home for the holidays, guess who her brother brought with him? Pass the mulled wine, Christmas is gonna suck.
Nic Fontana has a killer shirtless smolder and not much else. Unhappy in his career and with no family of his own, he needs to crash with the people he’s always considered his second family. Except Jessie, who’s never felt anything like a sister, especially not when she accidentally ends up under the mistletoe with him (and let’s be honest, ends up just plain under him). But holidays don’t last forever, and when this one ends, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
The genius of Sarah Brenton is her ability to slide angry, saucy, filthy-cute enemies-to-lovers banter between two slices of bread and magically make it into a love sandwich. HOLIDAY VIBES is unapologetically hot, filled with spicy snark, and crammed with the beautiful chaos of a big, boisterous, no-filter family at the most wonderful time of the year. I’m sorry about those other books that used to be your holiday comfort rereads…make room on your bookshelf for your new perennial fave.
Jessie Foley hasn’t painted since her twin brother’s best friend ruined it for her, like he ruined everything since they were teenagers. Luckily, he’s busy being a terrible actor who somehow landed a massive superhero franchise, so he won’t be butting in on her precious family Christmas. But when Jessie gets home for the holidays, guess who her brother brought with him? Pass the mulled wine, Christmas is gonna suck.
Nic Fontana has a killer shirtless smolder and not much else. Unhappy in his career and with no family of his own, he needs to crash with the people he’s always considered his second family. Except Jessie, who’s never felt anything like a sister, especially not when she accidentally ends up under the mistletoe with him (and let’s be honest, ends up just plain under him). But holidays don’t last forever, and when this one ends, they’ll have to risk it all to find out if what they have is more than just vibes.
The genius of Sarah Brenton is her ability to slide angry, saucy, filthy-cute enemies-to-lovers banter between two slices of bread and magically make it into a love sandwich. HOLIDAY VIBES is unapologetically hot, filled with spicy snark, and crammed with the beautiful chaos of a big, boisterous, no-filter family at the most wonderful time of the year. I’m sorry about those other books that used to be your holiday comfort rereads…make room on your bookshelf for your new perennial fave.
November 17, 2023
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Publication date: November 24, 2023
Holiday Vibes is the second book in the Over the Top love series by Sarah Brenton and my first from this author.
This is an enemies to lovers, brothers best friend romance story with some great spice! Jessie Foley has been in a battle with her twin brothers best friend for almost two decades.
Nic and Tim became fast friends when he moved to the neighborhood. Nic quickly became a staple at the Foley house and even more so when he lost his parents to an accident when he was 24.
Jessie and Nic haven’t seen each other in 5 years but as they both come back home for the annual Foley Christmas holiday extravaganza, they immediately go back to their arguments and insults.
Nic catches Jessie in the laundry room nearly naked after spilling wine on her clothes and in that moment realizes his desire for his best friends sister.
Nic and Jessie decide to have a Christmas fling. Two weeks, no feelings and lots of hot sex. It will be easy to end things and go back to their lives and hatred of each other. But, what if it wasn’t hate? What if it’s been love all along?
I liked this book! I haven’t read the first one but will definitely add to my list. This book had a lot of raw emotion. I liked Nic and Jessie’s story but sometimes their inability to communicate to each other was a bit over the top and drove me crazy . It ended up working for the story so I’m giving this one four stars. I loved the spice it wasn’t too much and added to the story nicely!
#NetGalley #sarahbrenton #holidayvibes
Publication date: November 24, 2023
Holiday Vibes is the second book in the Over the Top love series by Sarah Brenton and my first from this author.
This is an enemies to lovers, brothers best friend romance story with some great spice! Jessie Foley has been in a battle with her twin brothers best friend for almost two decades.
Nic and Tim became fast friends when he moved to the neighborhood. Nic quickly became a staple at the Foley house and even more so when he lost his parents to an accident when he was 24.
Jessie and Nic haven’t seen each other in 5 years but as they both come back home for the annual Foley Christmas holiday extravaganza, they immediately go back to their arguments and insults.
Nic catches Jessie in the laundry room nearly naked after spilling wine on her clothes and in that moment realizes his desire for his best friends sister.
Nic and Jessie decide to have a Christmas fling. Two weeks, no feelings and lots of hot sex. It will be easy to end things and go back to their lives and hatred of each other. But, what if it wasn’t hate? What if it’s been love all along?
I liked this book! I haven’t read the first one but will definitely add to my list. This book had a lot of raw emotion. I liked Nic and Jessie’s story but sometimes their inability to communicate to each other was a bit over the top and drove me crazy . It ended up working for the story so I’m giving this one four stars. I loved the spice it wasn’t too much and added to the story nicely!
#NetGalley #sarahbrenton #holidayvibes
November 29, 2025
4.5⭐|3🌶|13%🌶frequency
All through reading book 1, I was wondering why Jessie hates Nic so much. What happened? I mean, he is her twin brother's best friend. They grew up together, so they have known each other for over 20 years. So WTF happened?
One thing that was clear from the beginning is that Jessie is not off limits. Oooh NO! Timothy (Jessie's twin) wants them to be together. Especially because he knows that Nic has a crush on Jessie. It drove me crazy 🙈
So I instantly jumped into the book to get behind all of it...
Little hint, this book starts pretty quickly after book 1 and with what Timothy had planned now for Jessie and Nic... 😎
And of course the "secret" gets revealed... It's not really a secret, and still nobody has talked about it. I felt a bit sorry for both of them. Because it really had a strong influence on what happened after for both of them 🥺
This book is definitely funny 😁. With all that happens with this crazy Foley family. They're not so typical caroling. Or all the 🍆 and toys. A dad who is always reading (and no, he doesn't read the newspapers). And a mom who cares a lot.
And of course, with all the 🍆, there is quite a chemistry around 😁 The first 🌶️ scene... Oh 🙈🤣 Yes, you can "see" that Nic is obsessed with Jessie, and all just because of ping-pong balls 😎
It's now one book left, and I'm excited about how Ashley, the twins' cousin, will fit in it 😁 She didn't appear before; they only talked about her.
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
All through reading book 1, I was wondering why Jessie hates Nic so much. What happened? I mean, he is her twin brother's best friend. They grew up together, so they have known each other for over 20 years. So WTF happened?
One thing that was clear from the beginning is that Jessie is not off limits. Oooh NO! Timothy (Jessie's twin) wants them to be together. Especially because he knows that Nic has a crush on Jessie. It drove me crazy 🙈
So I instantly jumped into the book to get behind all of it...
Little hint, this book starts pretty quickly after book 1 and with what Timothy had planned now for Jessie and Nic... 😎
And of course the "secret" gets revealed... It's not really a secret, and still nobody has talked about it. I felt a bit sorry for both of them. Because it really had a strong influence on what happened after for both of them 🥺
This book is definitely funny 😁. With all that happens with this crazy Foley family. They're not so typical caroling. Or all the 🍆 and toys. A dad who is always reading (and no, he doesn't read the newspapers). And a mom who cares a lot.
And of course, with all the 🍆, there is quite a chemistry around 😁 The first 🌶️ scene... Oh 🙈🤣 Yes, you can "see" that Nic is obsessed with Jessie, and all just because of ping-pong balls 😎
It's now one book left, and I'm excited about how Ashley, the twins' cousin, will fit in it 😁 She didn't appear before; they only talked about her.
Follow me on IG for more
https://www.instagram.com/minnie.love...
October 1, 2023
My love of Sarah Brenton's books only continues to grow!
Jessie and Nic have never gotten things quite right. Maybe it's because he stole her best friend away (aka her twin brother Timothy). Maybe there is too much history between them (Jessie can hold a grudge like it's no one's business after all). Or maybe it's because they are too afraid to admit what all their friends and family seem to know: that they've secretly been in love for years. But this Christmas, it's time to figure out if they can finally get it right, or if they are doomed to always miss out on what they want.
I thought I was a fan of childhood friends to lovers, but childhood rivals to FWB to lovers is my new favorite. The chemistry and banter between Jessie and Nic was electric. It was easy to see them as rivals but not bullies. Much of their interactions were good-natured, fun teasing; but occasionally they tip-toed over the line, but it was always clear that they struggled with they way their words and actions continually drove a wedge between them. Miscommunication plays a big role in Holiday Vibes, but it was so well done, that I didn't mind it.
The beginning and middle had me laughing, and the third act had me crying (but good tears!). The writing and emotions are so good, and it will just suck you right in. I want to be a part of the big, loud, crazy Foley family after this book.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
Jessie and Nic have never gotten things quite right. Maybe it's because he stole her best friend away (aka her twin brother Timothy). Maybe there is too much history between them (Jessie can hold a grudge like it's no one's business after all). Or maybe it's because they are too afraid to admit what all their friends and family seem to know: that they've secretly been in love for years. But this Christmas, it's time to figure out if they can finally get it right, or if they are doomed to always miss out on what they want.
I thought I was a fan of childhood friends to lovers, but childhood rivals to FWB to lovers is my new favorite. The chemistry and banter between Jessie and Nic was electric. It was easy to see them as rivals but not bullies. Much of their interactions were good-natured, fun teasing; but occasionally they tip-toed over the line, but it was always clear that they struggled with they way their words and actions continually drove a wedge between them. Miscommunication plays a big role in Holiday Vibes, but it was so well done, that I didn't mind it.
The beginning and middle had me laughing, and the third act had me crying (but good tears!). The writing and emotions are so good, and it will just suck you right in. I want to be a part of the big, loud, crazy Foley family after this book.
Thank you to the author and NetGalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
August 1, 2025
If you don't mind nosy, meddling families, this brother's best friend antagonists to lovers Christmas romance might work well for you. The family dynamics did not work for me, which took away from Nic and Jessie's romance. I don't think I like any of the Foleys anymore, unfortunately, but I'm going to try not to let that take away from how much I enjoyed the first book in this series.
Characters: Jessie is a white graphic designer and social media manager for a sex toy company and an artist. Nic is a white actor. This is set in Connecticut.
Content notes: physical assault, mild concussion, broken nose (secondary character), recent divorce (MMC's ex-wife cheated but told the tabloids that he was the cheater), past near-death experience (FMC's twin brother), misogynist secondary character, past death of MMC's parents, on page sex, shower and mirror sex, 69, mutual masturbation, sex toys, masturbation, alcohol, inebriation, excessive drinking, hangover, marijuana, dick jokes, small penis insults, gendered pejoratives, ableist language, hyperbolic language around addiction, reference to fans who have cancer
Characters: Jessie is a white graphic designer and social media manager for a sex toy company and an artist. Nic is a white actor. This is set in Connecticut.
Content notes: physical assault, mild concussion, broken nose (secondary character), recent divorce (MMC's ex-wife cheated but told the tabloids that he was the cheater), past near-death experience (FMC's twin brother), misogynist secondary character, past death of MMC's parents, on page sex, shower and mirror sex, 69, mutual masturbation, sex toys, masturbation, alcohol, inebriation, excessive drinking, hangover, marijuana, dick jokes, small penis insults, gendered pejoratives, ableist language, hyperbolic language around addiction, reference to fans who have cancer
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