Happy Ho, Ho, Holidays

Chicago Steel #4.5

by Jessica Buss

TreyAs soon as I see her, I’m bewitched by the bohemian beauty. One look from her and I’m done. Too bad after spending most of the evening together, I forget to get her number or her last name. As the owner of the Chicago Steel, the city’s professional hockey team, you’d think nothing is out of reach for me, but finding her has proved challenging. Months pass, and as my hope of ever finding her fades, she walks through my office door, hired to be my temporary PA.NicoleHe can’t be real. The summer heat must be getting to me, because everything about this man seems too good to be true. We spend most of the night together, talking and laughing. And guess what… he is the complete package. The one worthy of a trip home to meet the parents. If you ever visited home and hadn’t written it off years ago. But as soon as he appears, he’s gone without a way to contact him. Do I write it off as bad luck, or do I storm their headquarters demanding to be seen? But what if it’s all one-sided and he isn’t longing for me like I do him?

Genres: Romance

202 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 27, 2023

About the author

Jessica Buss was born and raised in Anchorage, Alaska. She is married to her high school sweetheart and has two sons. Although she has both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in Psychology, she stepped away from that field to be a stay-at-home mom. Now that her kids are growing up and she’s getting more time to herself, she’s giving this writing thing a chance.


https://www.jessicabuss.com

https://linktr.ee/jessicabussauthor?u...

Reviews

[My Own Bookshelves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Workplace romance you say? This is one of my favorite tropes. Because you get the will they/wont they, secret pining I dig reading while waiting for that first magical kiss.

Trey moves back to Chicago with less than ideal reasons, but picks up the helm as new owner of Chicago Steel. Just as he gets his feet under him and feeling more confident in his role, the goddess he briefly met a summer ago swings back in his life as his new temporary assistant.

Sparks fly as their once instant chemistry starts simmering again. I enjoyed both the MMC and FMC characters. Their interactions with their friends made you feel part of the group. If you love the pining trope, this has plenty of it as both characters cannot deny their attraction but fears and concerns hold them back. Okay you want to know the star reduction. Before you roll your eyes at me - yes it is a novella so not as much allowed in pages. And fully acknowledge this is a me thing - I just wanted more of the couple together on page than apart.

This is a novella set in the Chicago Steel world. You do not need to read the others to enjoy this addition to the line up. If you love that secret pining as much as I do, this is a weekend romance binge for you!

[Angels · Rating 5 out of 5]

We are new to this series but, so far we are loving it. We just love the characters they are a lot of fun. Love Hockey Romances and this was just the perfect fun and flirty read infused with a bit of drama and some challenges. This was a fast-paced read that you found yourself smiling throughout.

Loved Nicole's personality she was witty and fun and a woman who stood by her convictions. Loved her easiness among the team and loved them in turn for looking out for her.

What happened at the BBQ was so funny we could not stop laughing we knew right then and there we were off to a great start. Enjoyed Trey's character as well he seemed to be an all-around great guy who was patient and kind and even a bit clumsy and awkward, especially to a woman he found himself seriously attracted to.

Sparks and instant chemistry were found between Trey and Nicole since their first meeting but, there would be some time until they met again and it seemed nothing had changed the spark and sizzle were still there. They made a really cute couple who seemed to have so much fun together. Loved the playfulness between them.

A delightful read that was infused with love and laughter and the way Nicole chose to confess her love for Trey was priceless. One of our favorite moments throughout the story and last but not least loved all those moments when they secretly felt possessive of one another even when they were not even a couple.

[Jenn Allen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a light, fun read with Trey and Nicole, and their journey to each other. I liked that their story took time, meeting at a party, find a connection, but not sharing more than names. The feelings grew, and once they have that opportunity again, the burn is still there. I've enjoyed the books in this series and it was great to get to know Trey more! They are both lovable characters with a good back and forth.

I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Karrie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trey and Nicole need at Lucas and Samantha’s 4th of July party. They hit it off, but don’t see each other again until about a year later when she ends up being his temporary assistant. Nicole was only at a Steel’s party.because of her best friend/roommate who happens to be best friend’s with one of the players. Trey and Nicole had a misunderstanding before her assignment being his assistant was over. They both had feelings for each other. They were able to work out the misunderstanding and have a happy ending as a couple.

[Janet Taggart Baldwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

WONDERFUL STORY!

Trey and Nicole have amazing chemistry! While he is the owner of Chicago Steel, he is more down to earth than you would suppose and just wants a woman who wants and loves him for who he is, not his status or wealth. When he first meets Nicole, there are palpable sparks on both ends but he never gets het last name and she never pursues him because she can't believe he would ever want her because he is way out of her league.

When a couple years later, she ends up working as his temporary assistant, a complete surprise to both of them, the embers are fanned and the flames burn bright. I loved their witty banter as they navigated their budding attraction without stepping over the lines of Boss/Employee. Her side job had me in stitches with his embarrassment and then acceptance! This was a wonderful story that I truly recommend!

[Callie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC of this book, which is the first book I have read by this author. I really enjoyed the story and getting to know the characters in the Chicago Steel world.
This novella is about Trey, who inherits the team and Nicole, who is a friend of one of the players. They meet, sparks fly, but it's a while before they find each other again. Sparks once again fly, but there's some minor obstacles to overcome. It's an enjoyable read that had me laughing out loud in parts. Fans of the series should enjoy it. I enjoyed it as a stand-alone, but I will probably go back and read the rest of the series in the near future.

[Lorey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Ho, Ho, Holidays is jolly fantastic! Jessica did not disappoint with this installment in her Chicago Steel series. I had a hard time putting this book down and consequently finished it fast. I loved Trey and Nicole's story. Their chemistry is obvious. I could feel it as I read. Great descriptions, steamy scenes, and a robust storyline make their story an obvious must-read. Trey and Nicole's story is worthy of your reading time. Highly recommend! Thumbs way up!

[Lindarhc · Rating 5 out of 5]

Try is left a hockey team after his father dies. He decides he wants to own it and take an interest in his players. He goes to a barbecue and goes around introducing himself. There he sees Nicole and gets a crush on her and she him. They don’t see each other again for two years until she comes to work for him while his secretary goes on maternity leave. They can’t link up as there is a policy of no fraternising with colleagues. After his secretary returns then they can get together. This is a short but enjoyable story and can’t wait to read more. I received an ARC from the author for a voluntary review

[AddictedToReadingRomance · Rating 5 out of 5]

so so good

December 22 never looks better. If you are wondering why I’m saying this… you need to read this book. Trey and Nicole are going to rock your world with all the chemistry between them and all the passion they have together. This series of Chicago steel is giving me all the amazing tropes. This time a great work place romance with opposites attracted. I love how Nicole manages to rock Trey world with just one encounter. I love how deeply they both fall in love with each other. It’s really great novella to read in this holiday season. I love reading about previous heroes, specifically Coach, and future heroes. I am so excited for the next book in this series.

[Dee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jessica didn't disappoint with this amazing story highlighting the owner of the Steel. Nicole and Trey's story gives you all the feels and even gets a little quirky and smirky 😉.

I have truly enjoyed every one of the Chicago Steel books and can't wait for what is to come in 2024!!!

Thank you, Jessica, for being a talented author and taking the time to get to know and chat with your readers.

[N.D. Jackson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Happy Ho, Ho, Holidays is a cute holiday novella from the Chicago Series. I liked that Trey and Nicole met and had a connection before he became a big deal and though neither acted on it, when they were given a second chance it doesn't come easy but it is totally enjoyable to go along for the ride!

[Amanda M · Rating 5 out of 5]

An unexpected yet entertaining read. Trey and Nicole's story grabbed my interest from page one. Their connection as well as chemistry is evident. I loved seeing how things came together for these two. I also liked the banter between them. A perfect holiday read.

[Melissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book #4.5 in the Chicago Steel series. Loved being back with the Steel Men and their ladies! Trey and Nicole are so cute together. Definitely don’t want to give away anything good!!

I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

CAWFILE: 10.0
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars.
Recommend this book? Yes! Author? Yes!
Read more from this author? Yes!

Happy Reading!
Melissa

[SB · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trey and Nicole have amazing chemistry and I loved their story. The Halloween costume she comes up with is perfect! Another great story to the series, can’t wait for more!

[evieo17 · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5stars
This was a cute read. It take Trey and Nicole a while to get together. They both danced around each other and had some minor miscommunication but they finally figured it out.

[Erin Lewis · Rating 5 out of 5]

5-star review of Happy Ho Ho Holidays (Chicago Steel Novella #2) by Jessica Buss

This is Trey and Nicole’s story and although a quick read Jessica Buss has packed a lot into the story.

From the moment Trey set eyes on Nicole he wanted her. After one night they part ways without getting contact details. Fast forward a few months and Trey is shocked when she walks in the door, his new temporary PA.

I quickly became invested in Trey and Nicole’s story, it ticked all the boxes for me. Meeting up again, the attraction is still intense.

I enjoyed this story and the development of their relationship. A wonderfully written story that left me with a smile on my face.
 

[Janae Peterson Gale · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Ho Ho, Holidays is Trey and Nicole’s story. It’s fun, entertaining and I enjoyed their story. Trey and Nicole meet and both feel the connection but neither acts on it. They finally end up meeting again when Nicole becomes Treys PA. They take us through their journey of friendship, ups and downs until they finally figure it out and come together. I enjoyed this story and love these characters! I was especially entertained by Nicole’s side gig! Another great read from Jessica Buss!

[Books I Flove · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nicole and Trey met at a 4th of July party and connected immediately. But they don't see each other for another year or two. Until Nicole becomes Trey's PA - he's the owner of the Chicago Steel Hockey team. I had a bit of a hard time to get into this book, as it's a new author, and so a new series for me. There's lots of 'talking in the head / thinking', and personally I love the dialogue a lot more.
As these two never really talk talk to each other, there are lots of misunderstandings. I wanted to shake them sometimes, so they sit down and have a real talk.
It's very slow burn, but all in all it's a cute novella. I'm a person who likes to start at the beginning of a series, so I thought this is a good introduction to it. I got some vibes from a maybe future couple, which I'd totally love to read!


I kindly received an arc from the author and voluntarily left a review.
3,5 stars

[Jennifer Pierson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trey & Nicole's story was on the short(ish) side but it packed a wow punch for me. They connected when they first met, and it was instantly apparent they were perfect for each other, however, after that night, they weren't having any luck finding each other again. Luckily for them, fate stepped in, and she walked into his office for a job so now the fun really kicks off as they navigate this new situation while the sparks fly like crazy. This story was super easy to finish in an afternoon especially since it was unpredictable so I needed to see how it was going to all play out, and I had a great time. I LOVE Jessica Buss' witty writing style so you don't want to pass this story up and as for me? I CANNOT WAIT for more by her so I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND! 

[Kasie Harvey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this opportunity to read and review this ARC! I'm so glad it can be read as a standalone because I haven't had a chance to read any of Jessica's books yet.🥰 They are in my library waiting though.😉 This was a cute, short story. I love Nicole's personality and her wit. This story takes place over several years, but I feel like it was very easy to follow the storyline and keep track of all the happenings. I was hoping for a little more spice between the two, but after reading I feel it is fitting to the situation and right on point! There were times that I laughed out loud and was yelling at the misunderstanding to be resolved. Thank goodness for friends to give us a nudge when we need it! Definitely has a found family vibe!

[Christine Woinich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Their first encounter was by chance and they made an instant connection. Time then separated Nicole and Trey. Trey takes over ownership of the Steel when his father passes away, and he focused on improving the team. With Nicole's connections to Ace and Rocco, she spent a lot of time with the team off ice. She had a lot of support from the WAGs as well. Nicole and Trey spend more time together and admit to feelings from the beginning. I enjoyed the story but got a little confused with the progression of time. Overall, this was a good read.

I received a copy through Enticing Journey Book Promotions, and this is my unsolicited review.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is #4.5 in this series, and this is a quick read, but it pulls quite a punch. This is Trey and Nicole’s journey.
These two meet and hit it off, and after an evening together, Trey who is the owner of the Chicago Steel’s, forgot to get Nicole’s name and number, and has no way to find her. Months later Trey is surprised when his new temporary pa walks in, and it is Nicole.
This is a beautifully written story which is easy to read, with challenges, humor, witty banter, emotions, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining, unpredictable, and steamy page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trey is the owner of the Chicago Steel hockey team who meets Nicole at a party and even though he had no way to contact her he hasn’t forgotten her. The last place he expected to see her again was in his office as his newest employee.

Nicole was drawn to Trey from their first meeting and the chemistry and connection between them when they see each other again remains however there is also the difficulty that they are also working together. Let the complications begin!

A little angst, great chemistry and entertaining interactions as Trey and Nicole find their way to each other.

[Carol Seymour · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a truly unique "holiday" story, Jessica Buss has just what the boss has ordered.
Nicole and Trey meet through mutual friends at a Chicago Steel picnic. Their instant attraction keeps them coming back for more well at least in their minds for quite some time - the anticipation is killer while the thoughts can be so steamy.
Come and celebrate all the unique holidays of IM and take this witty, sweet and yet so satisfying love affair through the years with this addictive couple. This story will surely put you in the mood.

[FunUndertheCovers · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for a truly unique "holiday" story, Jessica Buss has just what the boss has ordered.
Nicole and Trey meet through mutual friends at a Chicago Steel picnic. Their instant attraction keeps them coming back for more well at least in their minds for quite some time - the anticipation is killer while the thoughts can be so steamy.
Come and celebrate all the unique holidays of IM and take this witty, sweet and yet so satisfying love affair through the years with this addictive couple. This story will surely put you in the mood.
Review by C. Seymour - blogger

[Elizabeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

The way Nicole and Trey interacted with their friends made me feel like I was part of the group. From their first meeting, there were sparks and instant chemistry between them, which made for an exciting read. Although they hit it off, they don't see each other again until about a year later when Nicole ends up being Trey's temporary assistant. The workplace romance angle adds an interesting dynamic to their story, too. I enjoyed the banter between the main characters. This novella would be a perfect read for the holiday season!

[Amanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trey and Nicole had instant sparks, but they did not meet again for a while. They were a great couple, I enjoyed the fun they had together. They do have to work through a misunderstanding while she is working for, can they move forward together. I love her side job she had, and the empowerment she gets from it. It was definitely interesting to learn more about Trey and see him in a different light. I highly recommend you read this book: It is romantic, spicy, and funny. I received a copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Books_on_my_shelve · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was my first book from Jessica Buss, it was cute, I liked Nicole side job :D, the meeting was great, apparently they had from the first moment great chemistry, it was a pitty it took half of the book they started to comunicate already, but otherwise I enyojed the bookI was waiting when they finally start to comunicate together and that's the moment the story got the right tempo and was fun. 3,5 ⭐

[Dawn Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Ho, Ho, Holidays is a part of Jessica Buss's Chicago Steel Series. I loved reading and following Trey and Nicole's work place romance. After meeting months before and making a connection, they part without a way to get in touch, then get a second chance. I loved this wonderful addition to the series and look forward to reading more from this author.

[Read.Review.Repeat Blog · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happy Ho, Ho, Holidays is a part of Jessica Buss's Chicago Steel Series. I loved reading and following Trey and Nicole's work place romance. After meeting months before and making a connection, they part without a way to get in touch, then get a second chance. I loved this wonderful addition to the series and look forward to reading more from this author.