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You Make It Feel Like Christmas
All bets are off when a single-minded photographer and a professional hockey player are forced to spend a week together on his sister’s Christmas tree farm, perfect for fans of Jenny Holiday and Maggie Knox.
Maisie Smart has a don’t-look-back policy–not on the choice she made to be a photographer (despite her family’s wishes) and not on the one-night stand she had six months ago. Sleeping with someone she barely knew was out of character; sleeping with a professional hockey player who bolted the morning after is a whole new level of embarrassing. Getting invited to spend the week at Tickle Tree Farm with her family this Christmas is a sure way to fill her with holiday spirit. Until the universe throws a Grinch in her festive plans in the form of the one man she hoped to avoid.
Nick King is a mess. After a significant injury lands him on the bench for every game for the rest of the month, he has more time to dwell on the one night stand he can’t get out of his head. With time on his hands, his anxiety hovering, and the holidays around the corner, he figures visiting his sister and nephew at their Christmas tree farm will be a good way to lie low and sort himself out. He’s in for a surprise when it turns out Maisie is staying at his sister’s and his attraction for her hasn’t lessened one bit in the last six months. Apparently, neither has her anger at him for bailing. But Christmas is the time for second chances, and the forced proximity may help Nick and Maisie unwrap feelings neither of them can walk away from twice.
Maisie Smart has a don’t-look-back policy–not on the choice she made to be a photographer (despite her family’s wishes) and not on the one-night stand she had six months ago. Sleeping with someone she barely knew was out of character; sleeping with a professional hockey player who bolted the morning after is a whole new level of embarrassing. Getting invited to spend the week at Tickle Tree Farm with her family this Christmas is a sure way to fill her with holiday spirit. Until the universe throws a Grinch in her festive plans in the form of the one man she hoped to avoid.
Nick King is a mess. After a significant injury lands him on the bench for every game for the rest of the month, he has more time to dwell on the one night stand he can’t get out of his head. With time on his hands, his anxiety hovering, and the holidays around the corner, he figures visiting his sister and nephew at their Christmas tree farm will be a good way to lie low and sort himself out. He’s in for a surprise when it turns out Maisie is staying at his sister’s and his attraction for her hasn’t lessened one bit in the last six months. Apparently, neither has her anger at him for bailing. But Christmas is the time for second chances, and the forced proximity may help Nick and Maisie unwrap feelings neither of them can walk away from twice.
320 pages, Paperback
First published September 23, 2025
104 people are currently reading
24631 people want to read
About the author
Sophie Sullivan
11 books1,408 followersSOPHIE SULLIVAN is a Canadian author as well as a cookie-eating, Diet Pepsi-drinking, Disney enthusiast. She's written ten books for St. Martin's Press, including Ten Rules for Faking It, Can't Help Falling in Love, and the Rock Bottom Love series. She loves reading and writing romance in almost equal measure. She's had plenty of practice writing happily ever after as her alter ego, Jody Holford.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 891 reviews
August 27, 2025
You Make It Feel Like Christmas
by Sophie Sullivan is a standalone contemporary romance set mainly in Merry, Washington. Maisie Smart, a successful photographer can’t get the man she had a one-night stand with six months ago out of her mind. It was an unusual and out of character act and the professional hockey play left the following morning without a word. Getting invited to spend Christmas week at Tickle Tree Farm with her family is sure to feel her with holiday cheer. That is, until in walks Nick King. A knee injury has had him on the bench for two weeks while he takes physical therapy. He has been suffering from anxiety and can’t stop thinking about the woman from six months ago and their one-night stand. He thinks visiting his sister Ellie and nephew Asher will be a good way to relax. Imagine their surprise when Maisie and Nick see each other at Ellie’s tree farm. Will they get their happily ever after second chance or is this relationship doomed from the start?
Both Maisie and Nick are successful in their careers, love what they do, and tend to focus on their jobs. Maisie is an activity organizer, competitive, feisty, and has a soft heart. Nick has a solid work ethic and he’s competitive, determined, and sometimes has a gruff outer layer. However, he also loves and supports his sister and nephew in their endeavors. It was fun to see their characters grow as the story unfolded.
I advanced effortlessly through the story as Maisie and Nick and their family and friends got to know one another. It’s full of humor, and with a holiday small-town atmosphere, this story is full of family dynamics, holiday activities, changes in life, and friends. However, it also deals with the deeper themes of parents pushing their children in directions that aren’t right for them as well as mental health issues. There’s plenty of innuendo and steam as well as some shower scenes. My biggest quibbles are that the relationship advances too quickly, there was some telling versus showing, and the swearing seemed excessive. I also wanted a little more conflict or some suspense.
Overall, this is an entertaining and light read with great atmosphere and good characterization as well as a few deeper themes for those interested in contemporary romances.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Sophie Sullivan provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for September 23, 2025.
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My 3.48 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
Both Maisie and Nick are successful in their careers, love what they do, and tend to focus on their jobs. Maisie is an activity organizer, competitive, feisty, and has a soft heart. Nick has a solid work ethic and he’s competitive, determined, and sometimes has a gruff outer layer. However, he also loves and supports his sister and nephew in their endeavors. It was fun to see their characters grow as the story unfolded.
I advanced effortlessly through the story as Maisie and Nick and their family and friends got to know one another. It’s full of humor, and with a holiday small-town atmosphere, this story is full of family dynamics, holiday activities, changes in life, and friends. However, it also deals with the deeper themes of parents pushing their children in directions that aren’t right for them as well as mental health issues. There’s plenty of innuendo and steam as well as some shower scenes. My biggest quibbles are that the relationship advances too quickly, there was some telling versus showing, and the swearing seemed excessive. I also wanted a little more conflict or some suspense.
Overall, this is an entertaining and light read with great atmosphere and good characterization as well as a few deeper themes for those interested in contemporary romances.
St. Martin’s Press – St. Martin’s Griffin and Sophie Sullivan provided a complimentary digital ARC of this novel via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed in this review are my own. The publication date is currently set for September 23, 2025.
----------------------------------------
My 3.48 rounded to 3 stars review is coming soon.
did-not-finish
January 10, 2026DNF @ 80%
I tried my best. I really did. But I just couldn’t finish it. 😭
Before I absolutely destroy this book (just kidding, it wasn’t that bad 😅), let me tell you what I did like about it. One was the family dynamic/relationships, especially among the siblings and in-laws. I’m not going to lie, I did smile a few times at the cute moments scattered among the pages because I’m a sucker for the merry times that Christmas brings. 🥰
The second thing that I liked was the awareness it brought for mental health, and parents having expectations for your life that don’t meet your own. I deal with both, but especially the anxiety. I had a panic attack recently, which was not fun (I mean, when are they ever?), so I related to the character who struggled with that. ❤🩹
And the third thing that I liked about this book was the Christmas vibes at the farm. Cookies, snowball fights, opening presents by the tree; it was all there…for about 40% of the book. But then it all comes to an end. Like, what the heck? Excuse me. I was promised a cozy, festive romance with kisses under the mistletoe, gingerbread houses, and snow adorning Earth like fairy dust FOR THE ENTIRE BOOK! But it all ends when I’m not even halfway through the story? I’m–I’m so confused. Am I wrong to assume that I expected this to end on Christmas day or at least the day after? Not a week or two later. 🤦♀😭
So that was a letdown. But another thing that I had a problem with was the romance and the two main characters: Maisie Smart and Nick King. I couldn’t root for them or their budding romance. Sure, there were cute moments between them, but those didn’t last long, and they only happened around family. Not only that, they were–pardon my French–horny as hell. Like, can y’all talk first and see if this is going to work out before anything happens between you two that you might possibly regret?
And that brings me to my next point: the writing/dialogue. There was too much telling and not enough showing. Maisie’s this. Nick’s that. Okay. Prove it in their actions, their dialogue, or in some sort of description so I can agree with you! And speaking of dialogue, it was more of an inner monologue. The characters thought too much. It’s okay for the characters to think; we want that. But maybe adding dialogue so I can decipher what the characters are like, so I can, in some way, relate to them would have helped. It needed more conversations. And that’s coming from someone who hates having conversations in real life. 😂
*Sigh* That’s all I got. I’m done complaining. 😅 Do I recommend this book? Sure. Go for it. Even though I didn’t like it, it doesn’t mean you won’t. I hope you enjoy it, and that you have a Merry Christmas, even though it’s September. 😂❤💚
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Mentions death of a parent and struggling with mental health.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Some (🌶️🌶️ to 🌶🌶🌶/5)
I tried my best. I really did. But I just couldn’t finish it. 😭
Before I absolutely destroy this book (just kidding, it wasn’t that bad 😅), let me tell you what I did like about it. One was the family dynamic/relationships, especially among the siblings and in-laws. I’m not going to lie, I did smile a few times at the cute moments scattered among the pages because I’m a sucker for the merry times that Christmas brings. 🥰
The second thing that I liked was the awareness it brought for mental health, and parents having expectations for your life that don’t meet your own. I deal with both, but especially the anxiety. I had a panic attack recently, which was not fun (I mean, when are they ever?), so I related to the character who struggled with that. ❤🩹
And the third thing that I liked about this book was the Christmas vibes at the farm. Cookies, snowball fights, opening presents by the tree; it was all there…for about 40% of the book. But then it all comes to an end. Like, what the heck? Excuse me. I was promised a cozy, festive romance with kisses under the mistletoe, gingerbread houses, and snow adorning Earth like fairy dust FOR THE ENTIRE BOOK! But it all ends when I’m not even halfway through the story? I’m–I’m so confused. Am I wrong to assume that I expected this to end on Christmas day or at least the day after? Not a week or two later. 🤦♀😭
So that was a letdown. But another thing that I had a problem with was the romance and the two main characters: Maisie Smart and Nick King. I couldn’t root for them or their budding romance. Sure, there were cute moments between them, but those didn’t last long, and they only happened around family. Not only that, they were–pardon my French–horny as hell. Like, can y’all talk first and see if this is going to work out before anything happens between you two that you might possibly regret?
And that brings me to my next point: the writing/dialogue. There was too much telling and not enough showing. Maisie’s this. Nick’s that. Okay. Prove it in their actions, their dialogue, or in some sort of description so I can agree with you! And speaking of dialogue, it was more of an inner monologue. The characters thought too much. It’s okay for the characters to think; we want that. But maybe adding dialogue so I can decipher what the characters are like, so I can, in some way, relate to them would have helped. It needed more conversations. And that’s coming from someone who hates having conversations in real life. 😂
*Sigh* That’s all I got. I’m done complaining. 😅 Do I recommend this book? Sure. Go for it. Even though I didn’t like it, it doesn’t mean you won’t. I hope you enjoy it, and that you have a Merry Christmas, even though it’s September. 😂❤💚
Thank you to St. Martin’s Press and NetGalley for the free arc! All opinions and statements are my own.
❗Content Warnings❗
Mentions death of a parent and struggling with mental health.
Swearing: Yes
Spice: Some (🌶️🌶️ to 🌶🌶🌶/5)
November 5, 2025
✩ 3.5 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Second Chance
➼ Picturesque Small Town at Christmas
➼ One Night Stand
➼ Photographer x Hockey Player
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ Complex Family Dynamics
➼ Hallmark Vibes
➼ Holiday Romance
➼ Mental Health Rep
➼ Third Person POV
“you spend your life capturing other people’s perfect moments, and I want to be the one who creates perfect moments for you.”
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that second chance romances aren’t really my thing, but I thought this one was handled really well! Their previous encounter was a one night stand and I thought for sure he wouldn’t be able to come back from ghosting her after that, but his reasoning actually did appease me. More importantly, all of his actions after they were reunited showed that he was willing to put in the work and earn his second chance. I also really loved that the author made it clear that one night stands were not the norm for either of them. I’m a little tired of reading the “playboy hockey player” storyline in general, so it was refreshing to me that he was not portrayed that way.
There are a lot of bad Hallmark movies out there, but this reminded me of one of the good ones. It really embodied all of the nostalgic cozy feelings that come with a good small town holiday romance. I kind of forgot that they were on a Christmas Tree Farm most of the time, but everything about the description of the town made it sound like the ideal place to be for the holidays.
They had some doubt and hurt feelings to work through which led to some immature decisions near the end from the FMC. I was a little frustrated with her initially, but her actions created an opportunity for the MMC to really show up for her and make it clear that he was all in. To be fair, her doubts were more nuanced and layered with past hurts caused by her father. I don’t want to get too specific to avoid spoilers, but there were a lot of complex family dynamics that came into play in this story as well. I think I wasn’t completely sold on the characters or I might have rated this a little higher. Still a great read and worthy of rounding up!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: My first Christmas themed book of the year! 🎄❄️
I probably would have preferred to wait until after Halloween to read this, but my hold came in early and is about to expire, so I guess I’m reading it now. 🤪
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
What to Expect:
➼ Second Chance
➼ Picturesque Small Town at Christmas
➼ One Night Stand
➼ Photographer x Hockey Player
➼ Forced Proximity
➼ Complex Family Dynamics
➼ Hallmark Vibes
➼ Holiday Romance
➼ Mental Health Rep
➼ Third Person POV
“you spend your life capturing other people’s perfect moments, and I want to be the one who creates perfect moments for you.”
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that second chance romances aren’t really my thing, but I thought this one was handled really well! Their previous encounter was a one night stand and I thought for sure he wouldn’t be able to come back from ghosting her after that, but his reasoning actually did appease me. More importantly, all of his actions after they were reunited showed that he was willing to put in the work and earn his second chance. I also really loved that the author made it clear that one night stands were not the norm for either of them. I’m a little tired of reading the “playboy hockey player” storyline in general, so it was refreshing to me that he was not portrayed that way.
There are a lot of bad Hallmark movies out there, but this reminded me of one of the good ones. It really embodied all of the nostalgic cozy feelings that come with a good small town holiday romance. I kind of forgot that they were on a Christmas Tree Farm most of the time, but everything about the description of the town made it sound like the ideal place to be for the holidays.
They had some doubt and hurt feelings to work through which led to some immature decisions near the end from the FMC. I was a little frustrated with her initially, but her actions created an opportunity for the MMC to really show up for her and make it clear that he was all in. To be fair, her doubts were more nuanced and layered with past hurts caused by her father. I don’t want to get too specific to avoid spoilers, but there were a lot of complex family dynamics that came into play in this story as well. I think I wasn’t completely sold on the characters or I might have rated this a little higher. Still a great read and worthy of rounding up!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: My first Christmas themed book of the year! 🎄❄️
I probably would have preferred to wait until after Halloween to read this, but my hold came in early and is about to expire, so I guess I’m reading it now. 🤪
≪ ◦ ❖ ◦ ≫
Connect with me on Instagram
May 14, 2025
♥ My Thoughts & Rating ♥
What a cozy, heartwarming Christmas time novel! This is a medium paced read that is plot driven. This book has a clear thesis, flowed well and I could really feel the main characters emotions. This also came with a hockey player male main character named Nick. He may seem like a grump, but he is super sweet off the ice! Then there’s the female main character named Masie, who is a photographer. Masie is stubborn, emotional and suffers with her own past personal issues. They both end up having a one night stand with each other, then Nick ends up taking off the next morning. However, Masie stays at Nick’s sister’s house and he still has feelings for her, even after months later! This forced proximity ultimately brings these two back together again!
I really enjoyed all the Christmas, small town vibes that this story came with! It’s all about second chances at romance and a new found family. This book made me feel lighthearted and hopeful! I really appreciated how the author writes this story of these two characters. This is written in the third person point of view, that alternates between the two main characters. There is definitely banter between the them, along with some closed door spice! Overall, I rate this a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
♥ Who I think would enjoy this book & Content Warnings ♥
I think anyone who loves reading a good hockey romance would enjoy this book! Content warnings include sexual content, personal injury and mental health.
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Sophie Sullivan and St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin for this digital advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
♥ Publication Date ♥
This book is expected to be published on September 23, 2025!
♥ Quick Review ♥
╰┈➤ Romance Genre
╰┈➤ Hockey Player MMC
╰┈➤ Forced Proximity
╰┈➤ Second Chance Romance
╰┈➤ Christmas Themed 🎅🎄
╰┈➤ Closed Door Spice 🌶️
╰┈➤ Lighthearted & Hopeful
╰┈➤ Small Town Vibes
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
What a cozy, heartwarming Christmas time novel! This is a medium paced read that is plot driven. This book has a clear thesis, flowed well and I could really feel the main characters emotions. This also came with a hockey player male main character named Nick. He may seem like a grump, but he is super sweet off the ice! Then there’s the female main character named Masie, who is a photographer. Masie is stubborn, emotional and suffers with her own past personal issues. They both end up having a one night stand with each other, then Nick ends up taking off the next morning. However, Masie stays at Nick’s sister’s house and he still has feelings for her, even after months later! This forced proximity ultimately brings these two back together again!
I really enjoyed all the Christmas, small town vibes that this story came with! It’s all about second chances at romance and a new found family. This book made me feel lighthearted and hopeful! I really appreciated how the author writes this story of these two characters. This is written in the third person point of view, that alternates between the two main characters. There is definitely banter between the them, along with some closed door spice! Overall, I rate this a solid 4 out of 5 stars!
♥ Who I think would enjoy this book & Content Warnings ♥
I think anyone who loves reading a good hockey romance would enjoy this book! Content warnings include sexual content, personal injury and mental health.
♥ Thank You ♥
Thank you to NetGalley, author Sophie Sullivan and St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin for this digital advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own.
♥ Publication Date ♥
This book is expected to be published on September 23, 2025!
♥ Quick Review ♥
╰┈➤ Romance Genre
╰┈➤ Hockey Player MMC
╰┈➤ Forced Proximity
╰┈➤ Second Chance Romance
╰┈➤ Christmas Themed 🎅🎄
╰┈➤ Closed Door Spice 🌶️
╰┈➤ Lighthearted & Hopeful
╰┈➤ Small Town Vibes
》* 。 • ˚ ˚ ˛ * 。° 。 • ˚《
❥ ୨⎯ Connie ⎯୧ ❥
ツ౨ৎ
September 20, 2025
✨ Rating: 4.5 ⭐️
🫧 Vibes: christmas hockey romance
🎶 Song: santa tell me - ariana grande
📖 Favourite Quote: "You're not only enough, you're everything."
📚 Would I recommend? YES!!
💬 tldr thoughts: a perfect blend of romance, charm and emotion
In the package:
📦 forced proximity
📦 well developed characters
📦 second chance
Plot: Maisie has been hung up on her one night stand that ghosted her, six months ago. When she show's up at Tickle Tree Farms with her family, she realizes that she will be spending the week with him, Nick Knight. The professional hockey player she hooked up with. Maisie's still hurt and Nick is will to do anything to get her back. This is a story about navigating anxiety, second chances and forgiveness.
Thoughts: I'm down bad for a hockey romance novel but add in some Christmas spirit? I'M INSTANTLY SOLD. I loved every second of this book. It had everything: small town Christmas vibes, chaotic side characters, great banter and well developed characters with depth. The tension between Maisie and Nick? 11/10, I just wish the longing and angst lasted a bit longer. They got together a little too quickly for my liking. But they were SO sweet together. It's always so refreshing to read about mature characters who communicate their feelings and navigate through tough situations together.
I highly recommend reading this one in December while drinking a peppermint mocha, it will make the entire experience so much better!
📚Read if you enjoyed: cozy hallmark movies, Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh
Thank you St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC!
✩⁺₊✩☽⋆ follow me on tiktok and instagram⋆☾✩⁺₊✩
🫧 Vibes: christmas hockey romance
🎶 Song: santa tell me - ariana grande
📖 Favourite Quote: "You're not only enough, you're everything."
📚 Would I recommend? YES!!
💬 tldr thoughts: a perfect blend of romance, charm and emotion
In the package:
📦 forced proximity
📦 well developed characters
📦 second chance
Plot: Maisie has been hung up on her one night stand that ghosted her, six months ago. When she show's up at Tickle Tree Farms with her family, she realizes that she will be spending the week with him, Nick Knight. The professional hockey player she hooked up with. Maisie's still hurt and Nick is will to do anything to get her back. This is a story about navigating anxiety, second chances and forgiveness.
Thoughts: I'm down bad for a hockey romance novel but add in some Christmas spirit? I'M INSTANTLY SOLD. I loved every second of this book. It had everything: small town Christmas vibes, chaotic side characters, great banter and well developed characters with depth. The tension between Maisie and Nick? 11/10, I just wish the longing and angst lasted a bit longer. They got together a little too quickly for my liking. But they were SO sweet together. It's always so refreshing to read about mature characters who communicate their feelings and navigate through tough situations together.
I highly recommend reading this one in December while drinking a peppermint mocha, it will make the entire experience so much better!
📚Read if you enjoyed: cozy hallmark movies, Holiday Romance by Catherine Walsh
Thank you St. Martin's Press and NetGalley for the ARC!
✩⁺₊✩☽⋆ follow me on tiktok and instagram⋆☾✩⁺₊✩
September 22, 2025
You Make It Feel Like Christmas is a Charming, heartwarming, second chance/forced proximity romance about two people, Maisie and Nick, who connected during a one-night stand and find themselves meeting again at Nicks's sister's Christmas Tree Farm. This proved to be a fast holiday- romance read with characters I rooted. I enjoyed the setting, the time of the year, and the focus on second chances. I also liked how the author had the characters dealing with their own individual issues who find themselves.
Maisie Smart is a photographer who had a one-night stand with Nick King, a professional hockey player. Nick bolted after their steamy encounter, leaving Maisie upset to say the least. She thought she would never see him again until she agrees to spend Christmas with her family. Nick suffered an injury has been sidelined, so he decides to spend the holiday with his sister and nephew at her Christmas Tree farm. Both are shocked to see each other again....
It is all about the journey with romance books and I enjoyed the journey both characters take in You Make It Feel Like Christmas. I enjoyed the humor, the camaraderie, the relationships between the various characters, the drama of family expectations, the chemistry, the setting, and the fun moments.
If you enjoy second chance romances, forced proximity romances, small town romances, and/or romance books set around the Christmas season, this book might just be the book for you. I found it to be well written, well thought out, charming, fun, and a quick read!
3.5 stars
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
Maisie Smart is a photographer who had a one-night stand with Nick King, a professional hockey player. Nick bolted after their steamy encounter, leaving Maisie upset to say the least. She thought she would never see him again until she agrees to spend Christmas with her family. Nick suffered an injury has been sidelined, so he decides to spend the holiday with his sister and nephew at her Christmas Tree farm. Both are shocked to see each other again....
It is all about the journey with romance books and I enjoyed the journey both characters take in You Make It Feel Like Christmas. I enjoyed the humor, the camaraderie, the relationships between the various characters, the drama of family expectations, the chemistry, the setting, and the fun moments.
If you enjoy second chance romances, forced proximity romances, small town romances, and/or romance books set around the Christmas season, this book might just be the book for you. I found it to be well written, well thought out, charming, fun, and a quick read!
3.5 stars
Thank you to St. Martin's Press | St. Martin's Griffin and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.
Read more of my reviews at www.openbookposts.com 📖
September 8, 2025
3.5⭐️ Rounded Down
You Make It Feel Like Christmas was a cute and cozy Christmas romance, and I also definitely would say that it could be classified as a hockey romance as well. The first half of the book was devoted towards Christmas, but then the second half of the book became a hockey romance, which was disappointing to me.
Maisie is a photographer and, by chance, met Nick as a friend's wedding where their chance meeting leads to a one night stand, and Maisie never thought she'd see Nick again. Her family's Christmas gathering is at a tree farm where they'll spend the week together, and Maisie is shocked when she runs into Nick, whose sister owns the tree farm and will be there for the week as well to spend time with his sister, Ellie and his nephew Asher. As hard as she's tried, she's never been able to stop thinking about Nick, and now she's in forced proximity with him, and their insane chemistry they experienced is still there.
Nick is an NHL player, which Maisie didn't know when they had their one night stand. Nick had been out due to an injury and was grappling with thoughts of possibly ending his hockey career to move on to the next step in his life. At the same time, he was also trying to deal with anxiety and learn how to work through it, so he felt that he wasn't necessarily in the most solid place in his life. But what he does know is that he hasn't been able to think of anyone else but Maisie ever since their one night stand six months ago.
Although this book started as a holiday romance, it ended up as a sports romance, which I wasn't expecting and was disappointed by, I still enjoyed this book.
Expected Publication Date: September 23rd, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Griffin and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
You Make It Feel Like Christmas was a cute and cozy Christmas romance, and I also definitely would say that it could be classified as a hockey romance as well. The first half of the book was devoted towards Christmas, but then the second half of the book became a hockey romance, which was disappointing to me.
Maisie is a photographer and, by chance, met Nick as a friend's wedding where their chance meeting leads to a one night stand, and Maisie never thought she'd see Nick again. Her family's Christmas gathering is at a tree farm where they'll spend the week together, and Maisie is shocked when she runs into Nick, whose sister owns the tree farm and will be there for the week as well to spend time with his sister, Ellie and his nephew Asher. As hard as she's tried, she's never been able to stop thinking about Nick, and now she's in forced proximity with him, and their insane chemistry they experienced is still there.
Nick is an NHL player, which Maisie didn't know when they had their one night stand. Nick had been out due to an injury and was grappling with thoughts of possibly ending his hockey career to move on to the next step in his life. At the same time, he was also trying to deal with anxiety and learn how to work through it, so he felt that he wasn't necessarily in the most solid place in his life. But what he does know is that he hasn't been able to think of anyone else but Maisie ever since their one night stand six months ago.
Although this book started as a holiday romance, it ended up as a sports romance, which I wasn't expecting and was disappointed by, I still enjoyed this book.
Expected Publication Date: September 23rd, 2025.
Thank you to NetGalley, St. Martin's Griffin and the author for the opportunity to read this ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 11, 2025
I am usually not the type of person who reads a hockey romance story. But because this was by Sophie Sullivan, I made an exception. I’m so glad I did.
Not only because I love her writing, and that heartfelt connection which she does so well. But this had hardly anything to do with hockey. Amen.
What this was about was a reconnection of two people who met one explosive night, and meeting again under very interesting circumstances for Christmas makes your heart full.
Sullivan tells a story with beautiful descriptions and intense situations that show compassion, growing love, emotion, and straight-up romance. She knows how to put the romance into a heartfelt story.
She truly has developed the perfect couple. What I love the most is was there was no third act demolition of their feelings and connection.
This was a beautifully written, clean, romantic story that honestly left my heart happy. I loved it so much, and this is why I love Sullivan’s stories.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/you-make-it-...
Not only because I love her writing, and that heartfelt connection which she does so well. But this had hardly anything to do with hockey. Amen.
What this was about was a reconnection of two people who met one explosive night, and meeting again under very interesting circumstances for Christmas makes your heart full.
Sullivan tells a story with beautiful descriptions and intense situations that show compassion, growing love, emotion, and straight-up romance. She knows how to put the romance into a heartfelt story.
She truly has developed the perfect couple. What I love the most is was there was no third act demolition of their feelings and connection.
This was a beautifully written, clean, romantic story that honestly left my heart happy. I loved it so much, and this is why I love Sullivan’s stories.
~~~~
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
** Full review - https://amidlifewife.com/you-make-it-...
June 6, 2025
What’s NOT to love, right?
✔️Small town
✔️Second chances
✔️Forced proximity
✔️Hockey player
✔️Christmas
✔️cute cover
I’ve been curious for a long time why hockey-themed romance books are so popular. When I read that this was written by a West Coast Canadian author/teacher, featured a female photographer and a male hockey player, and set at Christmas, I eagerly accepted the offer to read this one.
I should have done more research.
I stopped at “the queen of sweet romance” and decided this would be a safe read.
NOT.
I was disappointed because of the excessive swearing and sex, and had trouble reading due to the disjointed flow of the writing. It felt as if two books had been merged into one, each half focusing on one thing; one on Christmas and one on hockey. Nick, as hunky as he was, had a bad habit of telling, not showing and Maisie, well, too much OTT drama with her family.
Maisie Smart and Nicholas King were good characters, Merry, Washington (outskirts of Seattle), and the 26-acre Tickle Tree Farms (Christmas trees) was a good setting. It was good to see a focus on anxiety from MMC POV and a FMC who stood up for herself. This had so much potential.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a holiday read I’d recommend, as the content made me feel very uncomfortable.
This is the second of a planned three-book series of seasonal romances. They are standalones.
Any sweet hockey romances out there? Send me your recommendations.
✔️Small town
✔️Second chances
✔️Forced proximity
✔️Hockey player
✔️Christmas
✔️cute cover
I’ve been curious for a long time why hockey-themed romance books are so popular. When I read that this was written by a West Coast Canadian author/teacher, featured a female photographer and a male hockey player, and set at Christmas, I eagerly accepted the offer to read this one.
I should have done more research.
I stopped at “the queen of sweet romance” and decided this would be a safe read.
NOT.
I was disappointed because of the excessive swearing and sex, and had trouble reading due to the disjointed flow of the writing. It felt as if two books had been merged into one, each half focusing on one thing; one on Christmas and one on hockey. Nick, as hunky as he was, had a bad habit of telling, not showing and Maisie, well, too much OTT drama with her family.
Maisie Smart and Nicholas King were good characters, Merry, Washington (outskirts of Seattle), and the 26-acre Tickle Tree Farms (Christmas trees) was a good setting. It was good to see a focus on anxiety from MMC POV and a FMC who stood up for herself. This had so much potential.
Unfortunately, this isn’t a holiday read I’d recommend, as the content made me feel very uncomfortable.
This is the second of a planned three-book series of seasonal romances. They are standalones.
Any sweet hockey romances out there? Send me your recommendations.
September 22, 2025
Nothing says Christmas like a small town, low angst romance set on on a Christmas tree farm (Tickle Tree Farm) in Merry, Washington, reuniting a couple who can't forget their one-night stand six months ago - the one where he ghosted her the next morning. Throw in lots of family members and an adorable kid and you've got a winner.
Maisie Smart is a highly successful photographer whose family is invited to Tickle Tree Farm for the holiday. It's just what Maisie needs until she discovers the brother of her host, Ellie, is none other than Nick King, professional hockey player and her steamy, unforgettable one night stand. Nick is recovering from a knee injury and at a crossroads in his professional life when he's floored to realize that Maisie is the one-night stand that he can't get out of his head. Nick had his reasons for leaving without saying goodbye afterwards, and he's regretted it ever since. Can he get a second chance with Maisie? Does he want one?
Author Sophie Sullivan excels at rendering mesmerizing, small town, happy ever after romances with a lot of family and friends' dynamics. While lighthearted on the surface, deeper themes include mental health, major life changes and parental control over life choices. Sullivan weaves it all together flawlessly with holiday decorations, music, and activities including snowball fights. One precocious kid brings the cute factor, and the shower scenes bring the steam. The author does a great job handling Nick's mental health issues in an honest, relatable way drawing attention to the issue of mental health struggles among professional athletes and the keeping it quiet mentality that exist among some.
You Make It Feel Like Christmas is a sweet, entertaining, heartwarming romance that's sure to put readers in the mood for Christmas as well as romance. Characterizations are perfect and the scenes are beautifully descriptive. Highly recommended to fans of second chance, low angst romance. Grab this one for the holidays!
Special thanks to St. Martins Press for a complimentary arc of this title for review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. My full review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
Maisie Smart is a highly successful photographer whose family is invited to Tickle Tree Farm for the holiday. It's just what Maisie needs until she discovers the brother of her host, Ellie, is none other than Nick King, professional hockey player and her steamy, unforgettable one night stand. Nick is recovering from a knee injury and at a crossroads in his professional life when he's floored to realize that Maisie is the one-night stand that he can't get out of his head. Nick had his reasons for leaving without saying goodbye afterwards, and he's regretted it ever since. Can he get a second chance with Maisie? Does he want one?
Author Sophie Sullivan excels at rendering mesmerizing, small town, happy ever after romances with a lot of family and friends' dynamics. While lighthearted on the surface, deeper themes include mental health, major life changes and parental control over life choices. Sullivan weaves it all together flawlessly with holiday decorations, music, and activities including snowball fights. One precocious kid brings the cute factor, and the shower scenes bring the steam. The author does a great job handling Nick's mental health issues in an honest, relatable way drawing attention to the issue of mental health struggles among professional athletes and the keeping it quiet mentality that exist among some.
You Make It Feel Like Christmas is a sweet, entertaining, heartwarming romance that's sure to put readers in the mood for Christmas as well as romance. Characterizations are perfect and the scenes are beautifully descriptive. Highly recommended to fans of second chance, low angst romance. Grab this one for the holidays!
Special thanks to St. Martins Press for a complimentary arc of this title for review. Opinions expressed in this review are my own. My full review is available on my blog Cross My Heart Reviews.
November 6, 2025
Quick Synopsis
Imagine having to not only spend the week before Christmas with the guy that left the morning after without a reason or a phone number but having to play it cool because your whole family has no idea that you two have met in the biblical sense and are watching. Maisie Smart has been waiting for this majestic return to Christmas’ of past for some time now. After she gets an invitation to spend Christmas on a majestic Christmas tree farm with everyone she loves she can’t help but feel optimistic. She’s just gotten a dream job offer and life is looking a bit more jolly than it has lately. Enter Nick King well truthfully enter Maisie while Nick is in the shower- wooops! He’s the brother of the Christmas tree proprietor, an all star hockey player (yes he left that out during their brief encounter) and the one she can’t seem to forget. It seemed like they had a connection but his quick exit the day after leads her to believe she imagined it. They agree to play nice with each other until after Christmas but maybe Nick doesn’t just want to play nice? Maybe he wants another chance to do things right.
About the Characters
Maisie is a force of nature- she forges her own path and dares to be different even though it’s uncomfortable. She’s fiercely loyal and is devoted to her family and friends. I loved her approach to her life and her fierce determination to be her best and most authentic self.
Hockey is all Nick has known and after an on ice accident he doesn’t know if he can get back out there but he’s not sure of who he is without it. He too is devoted to his family but has been largely absent from their lives with his busy hockey schedule. Will he be able to make amends this Christmas?
This is a wonderful Christmas read emphasizing the importance of family and being true to yourself. Mainly set on an idyllic Christmas tree farm the scenes couldn’t have been more beautifully written. The feeling this work gave you of returning to the Christmas’ of your youth and slowing down and returning to what’s truly important was so welcoming and cozy to read. Shout out too to the excellent anxiety and mental health representation in sports but also in the characters day to day lives.
Imagine having to not only spend the week before Christmas with the guy that left the morning after without a reason or a phone number but having to play it cool because your whole family has no idea that you two have met in the biblical sense and are watching. Maisie Smart has been waiting for this majestic return to Christmas’ of past for some time now. After she gets an invitation to spend Christmas on a majestic Christmas tree farm with everyone she loves she can’t help but feel optimistic. She’s just gotten a dream job offer and life is looking a bit more jolly than it has lately. Enter Nick King well truthfully enter Maisie while Nick is in the shower- wooops! He’s the brother of the Christmas tree proprietor, an all star hockey player (yes he left that out during their brief encounter) and the one she can’t seem to forget. It seemed like they had a connection but his quick exit the day after leads her to believe she imagined it. They agree to play nice with each other until after Christmas but maybe Nick doesn’t just want to play nice? Maybe he wants another chance to do things right.
About the Characters
Maisie is a force of nature- she forges her own path and dares to be different even though it’s uncomfortable. She’s fiercely loyal and is devoted to her family and friends. I loved her approach to her life and her fierce determination to be her best and most authentic self.
Hockey is all Nick has known and after an on ice accident he doesn’t know if he can get back out there but he’s not sure of who he is without it. He too is devoted to his family but has been largely absent from their lives with his busy hockey schedule. Will he be able to make amends this Christmas?
This is a wonderful Christmas read emphasizing the importance of family and being true to yourself. Mainly set on an idyllic Christmas tree farm the scenes couldn’t have been more beautifully written. The feeling this work gave you of returning to the Christmas’ of your youth and slowing down and returning to what’s truly important was so welcoming and cozy to read. Shout out too to the excellent anxiety and mental health representation in sports but also in the characters day to day lives.
November 30, 2025
Thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press for access to this title. All opinions expressed are my own.
Read this if you like...
☑️second chance romance
☑️strong family ties
☑️Christmas tree farms
☑️ single-minded photographers
☑️hockey players
☑️No sex on the page( just reading between the lines)
You Make It Feel Like Christmas was a cute romance that included all of the above points. I was a bit bummed when it went beyond the Christmas setting, but I still enjoyed it. Nick and Maisie were likeable characters and I appreciated there was no third act breakup.
Publication Date 23/09/25
Goodreads Review 30/11/25
Read this if you like...
☑️second chance romance
☑️strong family ties
☑️Christmas tree farms
☑️ single-minded photographers
☑️hockey players
☑️No sex on the page( just reading between the lines)
You Make It Feel Like Christmas was a cute romance that included all of the above points. I was a bit bummed when it went beyond the Christmas setting, but I still enjoyed it. Nick and Maisie were likeable characters and I appreciated there was no third act breakup.
Publication Date 23/09/25
Goodreads Review 30/11/25
September 27, 2025
You Make it Feel Like Christmas by Sophie Sullivan
Contemporary romance. Stand-alone.
Nick King is a professional hockey player. After a major knee injury and knowing his age is close to forcing him out of the game, Nick decides to spend the holidays at his sister’s Christmas tree farm hoping to get his mind off his future. He’s surprise to find Maisie Smart and her family staying at the farm as well. He and Maisie had a hot and steamy night together. He felt they connected which he wasn’t ready for and he skipped it. Seems like he’s going to have to figure out many things this Christmas.
Maisie Smart is proud of her professional photographer career, but her family is full of high level degrees and they don’t see her choices as appropriate. She agrees to join her family at the tree farm hoping for acceptance and holiday generosity. She’s shocked to find Nick King also at the farm. An uncharacteristically crazy one night for her that she can’t forget. He left her once already so she’s not going to trust anything he says now. Shooed she?
While it’s not listed as part of a series, it feels like it’s connected to a prior book also set in Washington with hockey in common. I did not confirm.
A lot of emotional soul searching for Nick and his career with a lot of drama for Maisie and her mother. While all that’s going on, the surrounding tree farm and young boy add some joy to the holiday season.
Touching with pieces of heartbreak. Ultimately lovely, romantic and strong.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased a copy of this to keep.
Contemporary romance. Stand-alone.
Nick King is a professional hockey player. After a major knee injury and knowing his age is close to forcing him out of the game, Nick decides to spend the holidays at his sister’s Christmas tree farm hoping to get his mind off his future. He’s surprise to find Maisie Smart and her family staying at the farm as well. He and Maisie had a hot and steamy night together. He felt they connected which he wasn’t ready for and he skipped it. Seems like he’s going to have to figure out many things this Christmas.
Maisie Smart is proud of her professional photographer career, but her family is full of high level degrees and they don’t see her choices as appropriate. She agrees to join her family at the tree farm hoping for acceptance and holiday generosity. She’s shocked to find Nick King also at the farm. An uncharacteristically crazy one night for her that she can’t forget. He left her once already so she’s not going to trust anything he says now. Shooed she?
While it’s not listed as part of a series, it feels like it’s connected to a prior book also set in Washington with hockey in common. I did not confirm.
A lot of emotional soul searching for Nick and his career with a lot of drama for Maisie and her mother. While all that’s going on, the surrounding tree farm and young boy add some joy to the holiday season.
Touching with pieces of heartbreak. Ultimately lovely, romantic and strong.
I received a copy of this from NetGalley. I purchased a copy of this to keep.
December 25, 2025
A cozy read where nothing happens but the vibes were immaculate. Perfect for the season!
June 8, 2025
I received a free copy of, You Make It Feel like Christmas, by Sophie Sullivan, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Maisie Smart, isnt always that smart. Being ghosted after a one stand with a hockey player, has really messed her up, she decides to spend the holidays at a Christmas farm. I did not care for this book like I thought I would. I did not care for the language at all, not a very cozy Christmas read at all.
November 11, 2025
Oh!!! I am deep into my sappy, Hallmarkesque holiday reading binge and this one was another notch in that streak. The “one-night stand turned forever love” trope that can be a cute one if executed with all the right trials, tribulations and chemistry!!! Oh yeah, some red hot chili chemistry🌶️
The book summary basically introduces the MC’s and lays out how the story started. We meet the families who are connected by Maise’s brother who is married to Nick’s childhood best friend, Colt, who was like a brother to Nick and his sister whey they were growing up. Nick and Ellie grew up with a single mother who never let them forget how they ruined her life to the point they wrote her off and became estranged from her as soon as they could. Except of course, whenever she needed money, especially after Nick became a successful hockey player.
As for Maisie, while she is close to her two older, and much more educated and successful siblings, her mother never seems to miss an opportunity to remind Maisie that she could be so much more if she just got a degree and did something other than photography, something with a better future and maybe then, she could finally meet someone with a great future to take care of her. LOVED the scene when Maisie’s mother made some crack about Nick playing hockey and he pointed out that he doesn’t have a degree and it allowed him to make a $#^! ton of money so that he could invest in a boatload of successful start-ups and a lot of real estate.
Most of the story revolves around Nick and Maisie pretty much picking up where they left off six months earlier when Nick walked out on their one-night stand without saying goodbye. Yeah, pretty crappy, but fortunately, they connected that night on more than just the physical level and they enjoyed the personal connection they had made as well. The character development was spent mostly on Nick and Maisie, and the rest of the cast were just basically talking heads. The pacing was steady, and the storyline and writing was just what I expected for a holiday romance story. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.6 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review.
The book summary basically introduces the MC’s and lays out how the story started. We meet the families who are connected by Maise’s brother who is married to Nick’s childhood best friend, Colt, who was like a brother to Nick and his sister whey they were growing up. Nick and Ellie grew up with a single mother who never let them forget how they ruined her life to the point they wrote her off and became estranged from her as soon as they could. Except of course, whenever she needed money, especially after Nick became a successful hockey player.
As for Maisie, while she is close to her two older, and much more educated and successful siblings, her mother never seems to miss an opportunity to remind Maisie that she could be so much more if she just got a degree and did something other than photography, something with a better future and maybe then, she could finally meet someone with a great future to take care of her. LOVED the scene when Maisie’s mother made some crack about Nick playing hockey and he pointed out that he doesn’t have a degree and it allowed him to make a $#^! ton of money so that he could invest in a boatload of successful start-ups and a lot of real estate.
Most of the story revolves around Nick and Maisie pretty much picking up where they left off six months earlier when Nick walked out on their one-night stand without saying goodbye. Yeah, pretty crappy, but fortunately, they connected that night on more than just the physical level and they enjoyed the personal connection they had made as well. The character development was spent mostly on Nick and Maisie, and the rest of the cast were just basically talking heads. The pacing was steady, and the storyline and writing was just what I expected for a holiday romance story. I’m looking at an overall rating of 3.6 that I will be rounding up to a 4star review.
September 10, 2025
This is a well-written, entertaining, contemporary romance novel. It is a sweet, second chance holiday romance, with a likable, creative female protagonist, an engaging hockey playing male protagonist, small town charm, witty banter, humor, Christmas fun, family drama, sibling rivalry, an adorable little boy, a heartwarming romance, and a gratifying conclusion. The issue of mental health is addressed in a sensitive manner. Many thanks to Ms. Sullivan, St. Martin's Press/St. Martin's Griffin, and NetGalley, who provided me with an advanced reader copy of this wonderful novel. This is my honest opinion.
June 3, 2025
Maisie (FMC) is a photographer & Nick (MMC) is a retired hockey player due to an injury. They meet at a wedding between their two families and have a one night stand. They don’t see or speak to each other for six months after until a big family vacation the week before Christmas.
The beginning showed potential, I just think the flow was off the second half of the book. There was plenty of Christmas spirit at the start, but then it became more hockey focused. I did appreciate the honest truth of how anxiety can affect a person & how the main characters learn how to overcome their insecurities.
I thought the spice scene would be intense with the tension and build up through out the book. Instead it was a closed door & it felt off with the tone the book set betwent them. Also the excessive use of the F-word caused me to lose interest.
💞Thank you Net Galley for the ARC ! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review 💞
The beginning showed potential, I just think the flow was off the second half of the book. There was plenty of Christmas spirit at the start, but then it became more hockey focused. I did appreciate the honest truth of how anxiety can affect a person & how the main characters learn how to overcome their insecurities.
I thought the spice scene would be intense with the tension and build up through out the book. Instead it was a closed door & it felt off with the tone the book set betwent them. Also the excessive use of the F-word caused me to lose interest.
💞Thank you Net Galley for the ARC ! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving an honest review 💞
September 23, 2025
I don't know why. Brain blip maybe. I don't particularly like contemporary romance as a genre. But I do enjoy a sweet Christmas story, and I did like the other book by Sophie Sullivan I read. Sooooo let the sweet - cute kid, swamy - one night stand neither Masie or Nick can forget, begin and there is plenty of that in abundance with this one. One thing I am so thankful for is that it isn't a single person POV.
Maisie Smart is the youngest in a family of academically gifted parents and siblings. Maisie has chosen to be a photographer and is a successful one. This way she doesn't have to deal with numbers or letters and can capture life through the lens of her camera. Needless to say, her parents view her as the underachiever in the family. That's fine, it only hurts a little, and she is happy with her life even thought she would like to find someone and start a family of her own. She thought she might have, but he walked away without a backward glance and, it turns out, she didn't even know who he really was. After that fantastic night, Maisie finds she lost her heart to Nick and for six months has been trying to find it again.
Nick King is a star hockey player and shortly after his night with Maisie his life got really, really complicated. His estranged mother dies, his sister gets divorced, he smashes the phone of a reporter and suffers a possible career ending injury. To top it off, he starts suffering from panic attacks. Not really an excuse for the way he left things with Maisie, but there it is. But with everything going on, Maisie is still on his mind and in his heart. Nick is looking forward to visiting his sister and nephew and close friends for the Christmas holidays at his sister's Christmas Tree farm. Maybe he can sort a few things out over the next week.
Think again. It so happens that Maisie and her family are staying at the farm too and her anger at being left without a word is red hot and begging for some payback. What's a guy to do when the one that got away won't give him the time of day? Win her back, of course.
3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
Maisie Smart is the youngest in a family of academically gifted parents and siblings. Maisie has chosen to be a photographer and is a successful one. This way she doesn't have to deal with numbers or letters and can capture life through the lens of her camera. Needless to say, her parents view her as the underachiever in the family. That's fine, it only hurts a little, and she is happy with her life even thought she would like to find someone and start a family of her own. She thought she might have, but he walked away without a backward glance and, it turns out, she didn't even know who he really was. After that fantastic night, Maisie finds she lost her heart to Nick and for six months has been trying to find it again.
Nick King is a star hockey player and shortly after his night with Maisie his life got really, really complicated. His estranged mother dies, his sister gets divorced, he smashes the phone of a reporter and suffers a possible career ending injury. To top it off, he starts suffering from panic attacks. Not really an excuse for the way he left things with Maisie, but there it is. But with everything going on, Maisie is still on his mind and in his heart. Nick is looking forward to visiting his sister and nephew and close friends for the Christmas holidays at his sister's Christmas Tree farm. Maybe he can sort a few things out over the next week.
Think again. It so happens that Maisie and her family are staying at the farm too and her anger at being left without a word is red hot and begging for some payback. What's a guy to do when the one that got away won't give him the time of day? Win her back, of course.
3 1/2-Stars
My thanks to the Publisher, and Author, for providing a complimentary digital Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this novel via NetGalley. This is my fair, honest and personal review. All opinions are mine alone and were not biased in any way.
November 8, 2025
Too much telling and not enough showing.
They initially meet at a wedding and have a one night stand and sparks fly… we don’t read any of it. Were thrown into the story six months later.
Instalove.
Christmas was over and done with before we’re even half way into the book.
I am a big swiftie, but please don’t talk about Taylor and Travis’ romance in a book.
Cheesy.
Too much bickering.
Felt like it went on forever.
Save your time and choose something else.
They initially meet at a wedding and have a one night stand and sparks fly… we don’t read any of it. Were thrown into the story six months later.
Instalove.
Christmas was over and done with before we’re even half way into the book.
I am a big swiftie, but please don’t talk about Taylor and Travis’ romance in a book.
Cheesy.
Too much bickering.
Felt like it went on forever.
Save your time and choose something else.
December 8, 2025
Absolutely my favorite Christmas book of all time!! From the whimsical Christmas games to the matching pajamas every twist and turn will pull at your heart strings and make you fall a little bit more in love. I love Sophie Sullivan’s ability to cover difficult topics in an enchanting way.
Make sure you have a hot drink, a snuggly blanket, and a cozy spot to read. Because you’re gonna want to binge this whole book and one sitting.
Make sure you have a hot drink, a snuggly blanket, and a cozy spot to read. Because you’re gonna want to binge this whole book and one sitting.
September 26, 2025
A very sweet and sexy holiday hockey romance. I'm not really into romances and not interested in hockey so this book was not my cup of tea. I found the plot to be repetitious but I did enjoy the characters and the Christmas setting even though it's only September.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new book via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
Many thanks to the author and publisher for providing me with an arc of this new book via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and the opinions expressed are my own.
September 21, 2025
While I normally don’t like to read holiday books this far before the season, I really wanted to read another book by this author, so was excited to get the e-galley from the publisher. As with the other book I read and enjoyed, the cast of characters were ones that I loved and had a blast spending time with in the story.
Maisie and Nick were fun together, had some great chemistry, and some fun banter at times too. Both had families that loved them, although also had parents that may have added some issues to their lives whether from meaning well, or because they were not great people, different situations for the two. There was one couple I know is from a book that I wanted to read by the author but haven’t yet, and their parts of the story definitely made me want to get back and read that book! I loved the setting, the Tickle Tree Farm. The fun competitions and activities that Maisie planned for the group during the holiday were funny and things I could see my own family doing, some of them anyway.
I will say that I still had a few of the same issues as with the last book. A little too insta-love at points. And some miscommunication, but to be fair, I really like that the author showed the characters getting upset but they did NOT over-react in the way that so many times adds drama that irritates me. Maisie and Nick were able to pause, even with their misgivings, and give the other a chance to explain why they did something. And that to me seems very healthy, and I like reading about healthy relationships.
There were several steamy scenes, although not majorly graphic, they weren’t completely fade to black or closed door either, for those people who don’t like that. For me it was okay, although I did find myself maybe skimming quickly through a few of those to get to what was going to happen in the story next.
I can see reading more by this author in the future, as I said, I’d like to go back to the book for Lexi and Will, and I know I still want to finish the other series that I read the first book in.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature
Maisie and Nick were fun together, had some great chemistry, and some fun banter at times too. Both had families that loved them, although also had parents that may have added some issues to their lives whether from meaning well, or because they were not great people, different situations for the two. There was one couple I know is from a book that I wanted to read by the author but haven’t yet, and their parts of the story definitely made me want to get back and read that book! I loved the setting, the Tickle Tree Farm. The fun competitions and activities that Maisie planned for the group during the holiday were funny and things I could see my own family doing, some of them anyway.
I will say that I still had a few of the same issues as with the last book. A little too insta-love at points. And some miscommunication, but to be fair, I really like that the author showed the characters getting upset but they did NOT over-react in the way that so many times adds drama that irritates me. Maisie and Nick were able to pause, even with their misgivings, and give the other a chance to explain why they did something. And that to me seems very healthy, and I like reading about healthy relationships.
There were several steamy scenes, although not majorly graphic, they weren’t completely fade to black or closed door either, for those people who don’t like that. For me it was okay, although I did find myself maybe skimming quickly through a few of those to get to what was going to happen in the story next.
I can see reading more by this author in the future, as I said, I’d like to go back to the book for Lexi and Will, and I know I still want to finish the other series that I read the first book in.
Review first posted on Lisa Loves Literature
October 15, 2025
After a one-night stand six months ago that ended with Maisie being ghosted, she’s now heading to Tickle Tree Farm to spend the week with her family for the holiday season. Cue all the cozy, festive vibes … until fate decides to toss in the very man she least expected to see.
Because the one-night stand happened off-page, before the story even started, it was impossible to feel the chemistry that supposedly had Maisie and Nick falling fast and hard. The story kept referencing how electric that night was, but as a reader, you weren’t there for it—so it just fell flat. And since so much of their relationship centered on that single night and their constant urge to jump back into bed together, it all came across as incredibly lusty, which just isn’t my jam.
The first half was cute and festive, I will say. The tree farm scavenger hunt was especially fun! I was so ready for all the holiday warmth. But once the second half hit, it started to feel disjointed. While there were still some Christmas elements sprinkled in, the focus moved heavily toward Nick’s life as a hockey player, which just didn’t blend smoothly with the earlier holiday vibes.
Nick’s panic attacks were another mixed bag for me. I love seeing mental health representation, and I appreciate the message about being open with your struggles and not tying your worth to your career. But the execution here ended up feeling a little gimmicky.
The cherry on top was the nickname “Baby.” It always gives me the ick.
(heat level: 1 open-door scene, mild details)
Because the one-night stand happened off-page, before the story even started, it was impossible to feel the chemistry that supposedly had Maisie and Nick falling fast and hard. The story kept referencing how electric that night was, but as a reader, you weren’t there for it—so it just fell flat. And since so much of their relationship centered on that single night and their constant urge to jump back into bed together, it all came across as incredibly lusty, which just isn’t my jam.
The first half was cute and festive, I will say. The tree farm scavenger hunt was especially fun! I was so ready for all the holiday warmth. But once the second half hit, it started to feel disjointed. While there were still some Christmas elements sprinkled in, the focus moved heavily toward Nick’s life as a hockey player, which just didn’t blend smoothly with the earlier holiday vibes.
Nick’s panic attacks were another mixed bag for me. I love seeing mental health representation, and I appreciate the message about being open with your struggles and not tying your worth to your career. But the execution here ended up feeling a little gimmicky.
The cherry on top was the nickname “Baby.” It always gives me the ick.
(heat level: 1 open-door scene, mild details)
July 31, 2025
I managed to squeeze in one last Christmas in July read by a fav Canadian author and it was an incredible second chance, romance between Nick, a struggling hockey player who's recovering from an injury and dealing with anxiety and panic attacks. Nick is surprised when he finds himself reunited with Maisie, the one night stand photographer he ghosted when he goes to visit his sister and nephew at their Christmas tree farm. Heartwarming and full of family, friends and tons of holiday competitions and activities. This had some cameos from past characters but still works as a standalone and really shone in the emphasis on mental health in sports and problematic parental expectations/relationships. Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early digital copy in exchange for my honest review.
CW: toxic parenting, anxiety and panic attacks, undiagnosed dyslexia (Maisie)
CW: toxic parenting, anxiety and panic attacks, undiagnosed dyslexia (Maisie)
April 7, 2025
I'm so sorry to give this a low rating, but I truly struggled to get through it.
The cover suggested a cozy, sweet romance, so the swearing and sex throughout were totally unexpected and unnecessary IMHO.
Nick's f-words began in chapter 2 and everytime I read one, it felt like a slap in the face. Because of this, I felt uncomfortable with his character.
In addition to dialogue/thoughts making me uncomfortable, the writing felt choppy.
On the positive side, there was sparkly snow and a cute kid...
Thanks so much to the publisher for providing me with the ARC - I won this in a goodreads giveaway. I'm sorry to give only 2 stars, but I want to be honest.
The cover suggested a cozy, sweet romance, so the swearing and sex throughout were totally unexpected and unnecessary IMHO.
Nick's f-words began in chapter 2 and everytime I read one, it felt like a slap in the face. Because of this, I felt uncomfortable with his character.
In addition to dialogue/thoughts making me uncomfortable, the writing felt choppy.
On the positive side, there was sparkly snow and a cute kid...
Thanks so much to the publisher for providing me with the ARC - I won this in a goodreads giveaway. I'm sorry to give only 2 stars, but I want to be honest.
July 3, 2025
3.5 Rounded to 4
This was a sweet little holiday story; working through things as Maisie and Nick try to go from a one night stand to maybe something more? It's hard tellin' what will happen when you randomly have to spend Christmas together.
This was cute. It'll be a good read around Christmastime. Some hockey sprinkled in with the rom-com. Loved the acknowledgment of mental health issues in men's sports as well!
Publication Date : September 23, 2025
Thank you to Goodreads, NetGalley and St Martin's Griffin for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This was a sweet little holiday story; working through things as Maisie and Nick try to go from a one night stand to maybe something more? It's hard tellin' what will happen when you randomly have to spend Christmas together.
This was cute. It'll be a good read around Christmastime. Some hockey sprinkled in with the rom-com. Loved the acknowledgment of mental health issues in men's sports as well!
Publication Date : September 23, 2025
Thank you to Goodreads, NetGalley and St Martin's Griffin for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 22, 2025
Maisie + Nick
They had a one-night thing six months ago and he just left the next morning. Never to be heard from again.
And now they're both here at his sister's beautiful Christmas Tree Farm for the holidays. LOL.
We get so many funny and snowy and sparky and adorable moments.
I loved little Archer - Nick's nephew. And all the others too - I guess Sophie's readers might know some of them from previous books? (I remember Will + Lexie!)
This was a really sweet and funny second-chancey Christmas romance with lots of snow and cookies and laughter and family and all the things!
And after Christmas we get some more real life Hockey and family problems and decisions about the future.
I really enjoyed reading this - even though this was a Christmas Romance and it's the beginning of APRIL! LOL!
If you can't click the buy-links
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💜
💜
September 19, 2025
DNF @ 24%
I really hate the premise of leaving without a reason, but the minute the couple sees each other again, it’s totally fine. Some books can turn this into a semi-reasonable plot line, but this is not one of them. “Oh but I can tell how honest and genuine he is from the look in his eyes.” Eye roll. Lady, this man immediately started objectifying you after 6 months of no contact. He’s a walking red flag.
Don’t get me started on how dramatic this is either. The littlest things get blown out of proportion. Ok I get it she wants a family. Don’t need to mention it every single time she looks at his nephew. (By the way he’s in every scene.) Oh wow he’s so deep, he has anxiety. Yeah so does 99% of millennials but that doesn’t give us an excuse to be a jerk to everyone.
I couldn’t do it. I wanted Christmas cheer and the warm and fuzzies and this turned me into the Grinch. I guess thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC.
I really hate the premise of leaving without a reason, but the minute the couple sees each other again, it’s totally fine. Some books can turn this into a semi-reasonable plot line, but this is not one of them. “Oh but I can tell how honest and genuine he is from the look in his eyes.” Eye roll. Lady, this man immediately started objectifying you after 6 months of no contact. He’s a walking red flag.
Don’t get me started on how dramatic this is either. The littlest things get blown out of proportion. Ok I get it she wants a family. Don’t need to mention it every single time she looks at his nephew. (By the way he’s in every scene.) Oh wow he’s so deep, he has anxiety. Yeah so does 99% of millennials but that doesn’t give us an excuse to be a jerk to everyone.
I couldn’t do it. I wanted Christmas cheer and the warm and fuzzies and this turned me into the Grinch. I guess thank you to NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the ARC.
September 23, 2025
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡ (I feel like they fell back into things pretty easily)
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋 (I liked what was there, but the scene was pretty short and cut off)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 (for only one partial scene)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥 ish – the one scene fades and the rest is kisses / implied
Humor: Yes
Perspective: third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in, 9% chapter 3 of 34
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, 6 months later
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form
Why I chose this book: So, I didn’t super love the last Sophie Sullivan I tried but the hockey player hero made me hopeful I would like this one and I liked the cover!
Mains: Nicholas Carter King and Maisie Smart – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I am not sure if this is part of a series? I grabbed it alone and it was fine – there are some side characters and relationships that might have a story, not sure.
Basic plot:
Maisie and Nick had a 1 night stand six months ago – and he left without another word to her. She’s shocked to see him at her holiday vacation for a week.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- holiday romance
- small town
- photographer heroine
- hockey player hero (only some brief ice time at the end)
- tattooed hero
- second chance - prior one night stand about 6 months ago
- celibate hero
- you like close family feels – lots of family get togethers and moments
- lower steam – the start of one scene that fades and some kisses / implied scenes
Ages:
- hero is 34, heroine is 26
First line:
She’d stopped believing in Santa Claus by the age of seven, but Maisie Smart would absolutely never be too old for the magic of Christmas.
My thoughts:
I grabbed this one because I liked the cover. It has a few things in it that aren’t my FAVORITE, like a second chance and pretty low angst, but I did like a lot about this story.
I really loved both mains – I appreciated the hero coming to terms with his mental health and being more open and vulnerable about that. I loved the heroine standing up for herself with her pushy mother. It had some really sweet and cozy scenes.
I can picture this being a perfect read for a holiday break by a fire. I liked it okay but didn’t love some things – she tends to be very low steam and I really find I want more tension building if I’m going to not be in the bedroom.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: 2
Average rating from me: 3.5 stars
Favorite book: This one
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡ (I feel like they fell back into things pretty easily)
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋 (I liked what was there, but the scene was pretty short and cut off)
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑 (for only one partial scene)
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥 ish – the one scene fades and the rest is kisses / implied
Humor: Yes
Perspective: third person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: pretty soon in, 9% chapter 3 of 34
Cliffhanger: No, this ends with a happily ever after
Epilogue: Yes, 6 months later
Format: voluntarily read an advanced reader copy through NetGalley in e-book form
Why I chose this book: So, I didn’t super love the last Sophie Sullivan I tried but the hockey player hero made me hopeful I would like this one and I liked the cover!
Mains: Nicholas Carter King and Maisie Smart – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
I am not sure if this is part of a series? I grabbed it alone and it was fine – there are some side characters and relationships that might have a story, not sure.
Basic plot:
Maisie and Nick had a 1 night stand six months ago – and he left without another word to her. She’s shocked to see him at her holiday vacation for a week.
Give this a try if you want:
- contemporary romance
- holiday romance
- small town
- photographer heroine
- hockey player hero (only some brief ice time at the end)
- tattooed hero
- second chance - prior one night stand about 6 months ago
- celibate hero
- you like close family feels – lots of family get togethers and moments
- lower steam – the start of one scene that fades and some kisses / implied scenes
Ages:
- hero is 34, heroine is 26
First line:
She’d stopped believing in Santa Claus by the age of seven, but Maisie Smart would absolutely never be too old for the magic of Christmas.
My thoughts:
I grabbed this one because I liked the cover. It has a few things in it that aren’t my FAVORITE, like a second chance and pretty low angst, but I did like a lot about this story.
I really loved both mains – I appreciated the hero coming to terms with his mental health and being more open and vulnerable about that. I loved the heroine standing up for herself with her pushy mother. It had some really sweet and cozy scenes.
I can picture this being a perfect read for a holiday break by a fire. I liked it okay but didn’t love some things – she tends to be very low steam and I really find I want more tension building if I’m going to not be in the bedroom.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: 2
Average rating from me: 3.5 stars
Favorite book: This one
Endearments
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
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