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Mistletoe and Rodeo
Not yet published
Expected 29 Sep 26
Known for its natural beauty, holiday-themed Noel, North Carolina, isn’t just the country’s second largest producer of Christmas trees, it’s a warm, welcoming community, as one visitor on a challenging journey is about to discover . . .
By the time 25-year-old single mom Nicole Vaughn pulls her RV into Noel she’s at the final stop of a momentous road trip with her daughter, Kyle. Born with a heart defect, 8-year-old Kyle is now in need of a life-saving donor heart. Nicky holds out hope, but she knows the road ahead won’t be easy. Determined to make this Christmas rich and exciting, she’s traversed the U.S. to show Kyle the country’s natural wonders. But now Nicky’s out of money and needs a job. At the Frosted Firs Ranch, she finds much more.
26-year-old bull rider and ranch co-owner, Tucker Reed, left the rodeo circuit to help his widowed brother, Nate, run the business and adjust to single fatherhood. Seven years later, Nate has found love again and will be married on Christmas Eve. Tucker is raring to return to the circuit. . . . Until an enigmatic brunette with a spine of steel enters the picture. Then Tucker’s heart is stolen a second time by Nicky’s brave little girl.
Soon Tucker is visiting the RV daily, dazzling Kyle with rodeo stories. And when he and Nicky share an unexpected kiss, it reveals an undeniable passion. But Nicky is wary, and Tucker, too, wonders if he’s good enough—or capable of supporting Nicky and Kyle through the hardest of times. Yet, love brings risks. As Christmas Eve approaches, can they find the courage to face those risks together?
By the time 25-year-old single mom Nicole Vaughn pulls her RV into Noel she’s at the final stop of a momentous road trip with her daughter, Kyle. Born with a heart defect, 8-year-old Kyle is now in need of a life-saving donor heart. Nicky holds out hope, but she knows the road ahead won’t be easy. Determined to make this Christmas rich and exciting, she’s traversed the U.S. to show Kyle the country’s natural wonders. But now Nicky’s out of money and needs a job. At the Frosted Firs Ranch, she finds much more.
26-year-old bull rider and ranch co-owner, Tucker Reed, left the rodeo circuit to help his widowed brother, Nate, run the business and adjust to single fatherhood. Seven years later, Nate has found love again and will be married on Christmas Eve. Tucker is raring to return to the circuit. . . . Until an enigmatic brunette with a spine of steel enters the picture. Then Tucker’s heart is stolen a second time by Nicky’s brave little girl.
Soon Tucker is visiting the RV daily, dazzling Kyle with rodeo stories. And when he and Nicky share an unexpected kiss, it reveals an undeniable passion. But Nicky is wary, and Tucker, too, wonders if he’s good enough—or capable of supporting Nicky and Kyle through the hardest of times. Yet, love brings risks. As Christmas Eve approaches, can they find the courage to face those risks together?
Kindle Edition
Expected publication September 29, 2026
9 people are currently reading
98 people want to read
About the author
Janet Dailey
400 books1,855 followersJanet Anne Haradon Dailey was an American author of numerous romance novels as Janet Dailey (her married name). Her novels have been translated into nineteen languages and have sold over 300 million copies worldwide.
Born in 1944 in Storm Lake, Iowa, she attended secretarial school in Omaha, Nebraska before meeting her husband, Bill. Bill and Janet worked together in construction and land development until they "retired" to travel throughout the United States, inspiring Janet to write the Americana series of romances, where she set a novel in every state of the Union. In 1974, Janet Dailey was the first American author to write for Harlequin. Her first novel was NO QUARTER ASKED.
She had since gone on to write approximately 90 novels, 21 of which have appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List. She won many awards and accolades for her work, appearing widely on Radio and Television. Today, there are over three hundred million Janet Dailey books in print in 19 different languages, making her one of the most popular novelists in the world.
Janet Dailey passed away peacefully in her home in Branson on Saturday, December 14, 2013. She was 69.
Born in 1944 in Storm Lake, Iowa, she attended secretarial school in Omaha, Nebraska before meeting her husband, Bill. Bill and Janet worked together in construction and land development until they "retired" to travel throughout the United States, inspiring Janet to write the Americana series of romances, where she set a novel in every state of the Union. In 1974, Janet Dailey was the first American author to write for Harlequin. Her first novel was NO QUARTER ASKED.
She had since gone on to write approximately 90 novels, 21 of which have appeared on the New York Times Bestseller List. She won many awards and accolades for her work, appearing widely on Radio and Television. Today, there are over three hundred million Janet Dailey books in print in 19 different languages, making her one of the most popular novelists in the world.
Janet Dailey passed away peacefully in her home in Branson on Saturday, December 14, 2013. She was 69.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
January 20, 2026
**3.5-stars**
Mistletoe and Rodeo is the 2nd-book in Janet Dailey's Frosted Firs Ranch series. I read the 1st-book, Evergreen Christmas, and had so much fun with it.
In that 1st-book, we're introduced to the town of Noel, North Carolina, the Christmas tree capital of the world. The story follows a new girl to town, Jordyn, and a local resident, Nate, who does in fact own a Christmas tree farm.
That story followed them getting to know one another, learning all about the town and their traditions, and was full of wild and wacky Christmas fun.
This book follows Nate's younger brother, Tucker, a bull rider hoping to soon return to the circuit, and another new girl to town, Nicky, as well as Nicky's daughter, Kyle. I was excited to get to follow Tucker, as I thought he was a very interesting character in the 1st-book.
While I did still enjoy this, it didn't quite deliver the same level of Christmas magic that Evergreen Christmas did, which I'm sad about, as that's what I was hoping for.
Additionally, I wasn't crazy about Nicky, and wasn't 100% rooting for the romance to succeed. In the 1st-book, I loved both Jordyn and Nate, as well as they way they were with one another. They complimented each other perfectly.
Whereas here, it felt a bit like Nicky just needed a savior, and Tucker was willing to give up all his hopes and dreams to be that for her. I guess I just prefer more of an even partnership, but that's completely personal taste.
I also didn't feel like we got as involved in town life as we did in the 1st-book, although we did follow a continuing storyline of one of the Noel Nanas, Kandy. I did enjoy that aspect, but missed seeing all the other ladies in her friendship group.
I'm thinking maybe if I hadn't read Evergreen Christmas so recently, I may have enjoyed this more. I was still high off how much I adored that one, so this just did quite live up to that standard for me.
Nevertheless, this is still a good book, with a lovely romance, featuring light drama. I love the setting of Frosted Firs Ranch, and would absolutely pick up more books in the series.
Thank you to the publisher, Kensington Publishing, for providing me with a copy to read and review. This is charming and sweet. I'd expect no less from Janet Dailey!
Mistletoe and Rodeo is the 2nd-book in Janet Dailey's Frosted Firs Ranch series. I read the 1st-book, Evergreen Christmas, and had so much fun with it.
In that 1st-book, we're introduced to the town of Noel, North Carolina, the Christmas tree capital of the world. The story follows a new girl to town, Jordyn, and a local resident, Nate, who does in fact own a Christmas tree farm.
That story followed them getting to know one another, learning all about the town and their traditions, and was full of wild and wacky Christmas fun.
This book follows Nate's younger brother, Tucker, a bull rider hoping to soon return to the circuit, and another new girl to town, Nicky, as well as Nicky's daughter, Kyle. I was excited to get to follow Tucker, as I thought he was a very interesting character in the 1st-book.
While I did still enjoy this, it didn't quite deliver the same level of Christmas magic that Evergreen Christmas did, which I'm sad about, as that's what I was hoping for.
Additionally, I wasn't crazy about Nicky, and wasn't 100% rooting for the romance to succeed. In the 1st-book, I loved both Jordyn and Nate, as well as they way they were with one another. They complimented each other perfectly.
Whereas here, it felt a bit like Nicky just needed a savior, and Tucker was willing to give up all his hopes and dreams to be that for her. I guess I just prefer more of an even partnership, but that's completely personal taste.
I also didn't feel like we got as involved in town life as we did in the 1st-book, although we did follow a continuing storyline of one of the Noel Nanas, Kandy. I did enjoy that aspect, but missed seeing all the other ladies in her friendship group.
I'm thinking maybe if I hadn't read Evergreen Christmas so recently, I may have enjoyed this more. I was still high off how much I adored that one, so this just did quite live up to that standard for me.
Nevertheless, this is still a good book, with a lovely romance, featuring light drama. I love the setting of Frosted Firs Ranch, and would absolutely pick up more books in the series.
Thank you to the publisher, Kensington Publishing, for providing me with a copy to read and review. This is charming and sweet. I'd expect no less from Janet Dailey!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
ARC Review | Cozy, heartfelt, and full of found-family magic 🤍🎄
Nicole (Nicky) and her daughter Kyle both live with a heart condition that sometimes forces them to miss out on parts of life, but neither of them ever lets it define them. They’re strong, independent, resilient, and beautifully written. Watching Nicky navigate single motherhood while managing both her own health and her daughter’s was genuinely inspiring and deeply emotional without ever feeling heavy-handed.
After a year spent traveling across America, they arrive in Noel for a heart study and settle in temporarily. That’s where Nicky meets Tucker, a rodeo rider and ranch hand at Frosted Firs Ranch and honestly… instant golden retriever energy 🐕💛. Tucker is kind, gentle, emotionally present, and immediately taken with both Nicky and Kyle. The banter between Tucker and Kyle was one of my favorite parts of the book, it felt natural, sweet, and full of warmth. He doesn’t just fall for Nicky, he shows up for both of them, and that mattered.
Tucker’s backstory added real depth. His devotion to his family, especially helping raise his niece after tragedy, gave his character so much heart. The found-family element in this story is done so well. The side characters felt alive, meaningful, and added to the cozy atmosphere instead of feeling like filler.
This is absolutely a Hallmark-style cozy romance, but in the best possible way. Soft, warm, comforting, emotionally grounded, and full of heart. The circumstances felt real, the relationships felt authentic, and the emotional beats landed naturally. If you’re looking for a book that feels like Christmas lights, warm cider, and emotional safety, this is it ✨
I usually lean toward darker romance and alpha male MMCs, so reading a true golden retriever book boyfriend was such a refreshing change of pace. Tucker is pure comfort energy, and I loved it.
Nicky is such an easy FMC to root for. She’s strong, grounded, not whiny, and emotionally realistic, which is such a hard balance to write well and the author absolutely nailed it.
This was a quick, cozy, heartfelt read with beautiful writing and vivid setting. I genuinely wish I could go spend Christmas in Noel and hang out at Frosted Firs Ranch 🎄🤍
If you’re looking for:
• found family
• cozy small-town vibes
• emotional warmth
• a golden retriever MMC
• soft Christmas romance
• heartfelt but not heavy themes
This one’s absolutely worth picking up.
Nicole (Nicky) and her daughter Kyle both live with a heart condition that sometimes forces them to miss out on parts of life, but neither of them ever lets it define them. They’re strong, independent, resilient, and beautifully written. Watching Nicky navigate single motherhood while managing both her own health and her daughter’s was genuinely inspiring and deeply emotional without ever feeling heavy-handed.
After a year spent traveling across America, they arrive in Noel for a heart study and settle in temporarily. That’s where Nicky meets Tucker, a rodeo rider and ranch hand at Frosted Firs Ranch and honestly… instant golden retriever energy 🐕💛. Tucker is kind, gentle, emotionally present, and immediately taken with both Nicky and Kyle. The banter between Tucker and Kyle was one of my favorite parts of the book, it felt natural, sweet, and full of warmth. He doesn’t just fall for Nicky, he shows up for both of them, and that mattered.
Tucker’s backstory added real depth. His devotion to his family, especially helping raise his niece after tragedy, gave his character so much heart. The found-family element in this story is done so well. The side characters felt alive, meaningful, and added to the cozy atmosphere instead of feeling like filler.
This is absolutely a Hallmark-style cozy romance, but in the best possible way. Soft, warm, comforting, emotionally grounded, and full of heart. The circumstances felt real, the relationships felt authentic, and the emotional beats landed naturally. If you’re looking for a book that feels like Christmas lights, warm cider, and emotional safety, this is it ✨
I usually lean toward darker romance and alpha male MMCs, so reading a true golden retriever book boyfriend was such a refreshing change of pace. Tucker is pure comfort energy, and I loved it.
Nicky is such an easy FMC to root for. She’s strong, grounded, not whiny, and emotionally realistic, which is such a hard balance to write well and the author absolutely nailed it.
This was a quick, cozy, heartfelt read with beautiful writing and vivid setting. I genuinely wish I could go spend Christmas in Noel and hang out at Frosted Firs Ranch 🎄🤍
If you’re looking for:
• found family
• cozy small-town vibes
• emotional warmth
• a golden retriever MMC
• soft Christmas romance
• heartfelt but not heavy themes
This one’s absolutely worth picking up.
January 20, 2026
Mistletoe and Rodeo is the second book in the Frosted Firs Ranch series.🎄❄️☃️ This holiday-themed contemporary romance is set against a cozy Western backdrop and follows the residents of the small town of Noel, North Carolina, as they navigate love, family, and second chances during the festive season.
While the setting and holiday atmosphere were charming and sweet, I had a few issues that made it difficult for me to fully connect with the story. The frequent switching between multiple POVs was occasionally confusing, as it wasn’t always clear whose perspective we were in. I also found the characters to be somewhat surface-level, which made it hard to feel invested in the romance.
In particular, I struggled to feel a strong connection between the FMC, Nicky, and MMC, Tucker. While the idea of their relationship was sweet, the chemistry didn’t fully land for me. As a reader, I felt that we didn’t get to know enough about Nicky beyond her medical issues, and with Tucker, very little was explored outside of his role as a bull rider and his work at Frosted Firs Ranch alongside his brother, Nate.
That being said, this is still an enjoyable, cute, and cozy holiday read that many readers may appreciate for the festive charm and small-town setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the eARC of Mistletoe and Rodeo by Janet Dailey in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
While the setting and holiday atmosphere were charming and sweet, I had a few issues that made it difficult for me to fully connect with the story. The frequent switching between multiple POVs was occasionally confusing, as it wasn’t always clear whose perspective we were in. I also found the characters to be somewhat surface-level, which made it hard to feel invested in the romance.
In particular, I struggled to feel a strong connection between the FMC, Nicky, and MMC, Tucker. While the idea of their relationship was sweet, the chemistry didn’t fully land for me. As a reader, I felt that we didn’t get to know enough about Nicky beyond her medical issues, and with Tucker, very little was explored outside of his role as a bull rider and his work at Frosted Firs Ranch alongside his brother, Nate.
That being said, this is still an enjoyable, cute, and cozy holiday read that many readers may appreciate for the festive charm and small-town setting.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the eARC of Mistletoe and Rodeo by Janet Dailey in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
December 30, 2025
Thank you NetGalley for the ARC
This book did follow the typical Christmas Hallmark story type vibe but it fell short for me. Like it almost wasn't enough of one certain thing for example the romance or Christmas, etc. One of my biggest book pet peeves is when we switch POV in the middle of the chapter. Its great to get everyone's POV but it just makes the story feel messy to me. I also was having a hard time connecting with any one character in this story. All in all its a good book for a holiday read and refreshing to have a story like Kyle and Nicole's but it just wasn't a favorite of mine,
This book did follow the typical Christmas Hallmark story type vibe but it fell short for me. Like it almost wasn't enough of one certain thing for example the romance or Christmas, etc. One of my biggest book pet peeves is when we switch POV in the middle of the chapter. Its great to get everyone's POV but it just makes the story feel messy to me. I also was having a hard time connecting with any one character in this story. All in all its a good book for a holiday read and refreshing to have a story like Kyle and Nicole's but it just wasn't a favorite of mine,
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A pretty cute, simple read. It's part of a series, but can easily be read as a standalone The story has its sweet, cozy moments, but there are a few things that make it hard to fully enjoy.
First is the daughter, Kyle. She’s inconsistently written. At times she talks like a toddler, and at others like a grown adult.
I also could have done without the constant reminders about a heart defect. I don't need to be told about it 5 times per page - itbecomes repetitive and feels a little insulting to the reader’s intelligence, as if we couldn’t remember such a key plot point ourselves.
We’re first introduced to the FMC as Nicole, but after meeting the MMC (who calls her Nicky just once) she's never called Nicole again. The story consistently refers to her as Nicky. There’s something odd about her identity shifting to suit a man, and it felt a bit off to me.
First is the daughter, Kyle. She’s inconsistently written. At times she talks like a toddler, and at others like a grown adult.
I also could have done without the constant reminders about a heart defect. I don't need to be told about it 5 times per page - itbecomes repetitive and feels a little insulting to the reader’s intelligence, as if we couldn’t remember such a key plot point ourselves.
We’re first introduced to the FMC as Nicole, but after meeting the MMC (who calls her Nicky just once) she's never called Nicole again. The story consistently refers to her as Nicky. There’s something odd about her identity shifting to suit a man, and it felt a bit off to me.
January 7, 2026
Thank you to the publisher and #NetGalley for the advance reader copy.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is set in the holiday themed town of Noel, North Carolina and combines a Christmas romance with themes of family, resilience, and hope. The premise follows a single mother traveling the country with her young daughter while navigating serious cardiac health challenges and searching for work, stability, and a fresh start.
Unfortunately, this book did not fully work for me.
While Kyle’s mannerisms and actions generally felt appropriate for her age (8), her dialogue often read as much older than an eight year old. Her language was consistently advanced in a way that pulled me out of the story rather than drawing me closer to her character.
The repeated use of the word “heart” also became distracting. While its relevance to the storyline is clear, its frequency felt excessive, including more than twenty mentions in the first chapter alone. Instead of reinforcing the emotional weight of the story, it took away from the cozy tone the book seemed to be aiming for.
I also struggled with the characterization of the female main character, Nicole. Her concern for her daughter’s medical needs felt realistic and understandable, but it contrasted sharply with her lack of caution around Tucker. Inviting a near stranger into her living space almost immediately and allowing her child to become emotionally attached so quickly felt inconsistent with the otherwise protective parenting portrayed. That contrast made the character’s decisions feel unrealistic to me.
The compressed timeline added to this issue. The entire story takes place over roughly two to three weeks, during which the characters go from relative strangers to navigating hospitalizations, falling in love, and more. That is a significant amount to happen in such a short period of time, and it made the emotional progression feel rushed rather than earned.
One additional note for readers is that Janet Dailey passed away in 2003, and this novel is written by a ghostwriter under her name. Some readers may not mind this, but others may prefer to know that in advance.
Overall, while the setting is charming and the story is clearly intended to be heartfelt and uplifting, the execution did not resonate with me. Readers who enjoy sentimental holiday romances and are less concerned with realism in characterization may still find this enjoyable, but it was not the cozy Christmas romance I had hoped for.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is set in the holiday themed town of Noel, North Carolina and combines a Christmas romance with themes of family, resilience, and hope. The premise follows a single mother traveling the country with her young daughter while navigating serious cardiac health challenges and searching for work, stability, and a fresh start.
Unfortunately, this book did not fully work for me.
While Kyle’s mannerisms and actions generally felt appropriate for her age (8), her dialogue often read as much older than an eight year old. Her language was consistently advanced in a way that pulled me out of the story rather than drawing me closer to her character.
The repeated use of the word “heart” also became distracting. While its relevance to the storyline is clear, its frequency felt excessive, including more than twenty mentions in the first chapter alone. Instead of reinforcing the emotional weight of the story, it took away from the cozy tone the book seemed to be aiming for.
I also struggled with the characterization of the female main character, Nicole. Her concern for her daughter’s medical needs felt realistic and understandable, but it contrasted sharply with her lack of caution around Tucker. Inviting a near stranger into her living space almost immediately and allowing her child to become emotionally attached so quickly felt inconsistent with the otherwise protective parenting portrayed. That contrast made the character’s decisions feel unrealistic to me.
The compressed timeline added to this issue. The entire story takes place over roughly two to three weeks, during which the characters go from relative strangers to navigating hospitalizations, falling in love, and more. That is a significant amount to happen in such a short period of time, and it made the emotional progression feel rushed rather than earned.
One additional note for readers is that Janet Dailey passed away in 2003, and this novel is written by a ghostwriter under her name. Some readers may not mind this, but others may prefer to know that in advance.
Overall, while the setting is charming and the story is clearly intended to be heartfelt and uplifting, the execution did not resonate with me. Readers who enjoy sentimental holiday romances and are less concerned with realism in characterization may still find this enjoyable, but it was not the cozy Christmas romance I had hoped for.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mistletoe and Rodeo by Janet Dailey (September 2026) [reading in March]
Frosted Firs Ranch #2
181-page Kindle Ebook story pages 7-181
Genre: Holiday > Christmas; Contemporary Romance,
Rating as a movie: PG/PG-13
Featuring: Bibliography for Janet Dailey, North Carolina, Christmas Town, December, Single Mother, Heart Defects - Congenital Heart Disease, RV - Fifth Wheel, Road Trip, Loss of Parent, Floridians, Former Teen Mom, Bull Rider, Christmas Tree Farm, Ranch, Characters From Previous Book, Vague Recap of Previous Book, Continued Storyline, Children, Multiple POVs, Multiple Storylines
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🐎🎄
My thoughts: 📘 - I had no idea this was part of a series. I looked up Book 1 and it turns out I read it in 2024 and loved it. Now I'm even more excited to start this story.
📖 - Small rant. Nicky states that she is 25 and her daughter Kyle is 8. So a course I do the math in my head, she was 17 when Kyle was born, likely pregnant at 16. Then it's revealed that Kyle's 9th birthday is in January, so even younger than I originally thought during the courtship. But when Nikki talks about Kylie's being born she claims she was 18 when she met the father. That's not even counting the nearly 10 months of pregnancy most babies go through. She would have to be 26 or 27 to have a 9-year-old at 18. When is Nicky's birthday? I hate bad math in books, they aren't Sims, that's all.
I gave Evergreen Christmas 5 stars and pretty much said that if it were a Hallmark movie I would watch it multiple times and could not wait for book 2. So, I was confident this was going to be a good story and it did not disappoint. It just didn't give me that 5-star high I was hoping for. I actually enjoyed the secondary storyline better than the main characters. I'm looking forward to more from this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Yes. This series is pretty awesome. It's humorous and dramatic while remaining a clean romance
Frosted Firs Ranch
1. Evergreen Christmas (2024)
2. Mistletoe and Rodeo (2026)
Songs for the soundtrack: "I’ll Be Home for Christmas" by Bing Crosby
Books and Authors mentioned: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Gospel of Luke by Luke the Evangelist
Frosted Firs Ranch #2
181-page Kindle Ebook story pages 7-181
Genre: Holiday > Christmas; Contemporary Romance,
Rating as a movie: PG/PG-13
Featuring: Bibliography for Janet Dailey, North Carolina, Christmas Town, December, Single Mother, Heart Defects - Congenital Heart Disease, RV - Fifth Wheel, Road Trip, Loss of Parent, Floridians, Former Teen Mom, Bull Rider, Christmas Tree Farm, Ranch, Characters From Previous Book, Vague Recap of Previous Book, Continued Storyline, Children, Multiple POVs, Multiple Storylines
My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🐎🎄
My thoughts: 📘 - I had no idea this was part of a series. I looked up Book 1 and it turns out I read it in 2024 and loved it. Now I'm even more excited to start this story.
📖 - Small rant. Nicky states that she is 25 and her daughter Kyle is 8. So a course I do the math in my head, she was 17 when Kyle was born, likely pregnant at 16. Then it's revealed that Kyle's 9th birthday is in January, so even younger than I originally thought during the courtship. But when Nikki talks about Kylie's being born she claims she was 18 when she met the father. That's not even counting the nearly 10 months of pregnancy most babies go through. She would have to be 26 or 27 to have a 9-year-old at 18. When is Nicky's birthday? I hate bad math in books, they aren't Sims, that's all.
I gave Evergreen Christmas 5 stars and pretty much said that if it were a Hallmark movie I would watch it multiple times and could not wait for book 2. So, I was confident this was going to be a good story and it did not disappoint. It just didn't give me that 5-star high I was hoping for. I actually enjoyed the secondary storyline better than the main characters. I'm looking forward to more from this series. Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for this ebook in exchange for an honest review.
Recommend to others: Yes. This series is pretty awesome. It's humorous and dramatic while remaining a clean romance
Frosted Firs Ranch
1. Evergreen Christmas (2024)
2. Mistletoe and Rodeo (2026)
Songs for the soundtrack: "I’ll Be Home for Christmas" by Bing Crosby
Books and Authors mentioned: A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Gospel of Luke by Luke the Evangelist
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC of this book!!
This book follows the story about Nicky and Tucker. She is 26 years old and single mom of Kyle, an 8 years old girl with the same heart defect her mom has. After a long journey with their RV they stop in Noel with the idea to find a job and settle down in the small town so they can partecipate to a specific hospital program on their disease. During their first night in Noel, Nicky and Kyle park their vehicle at Frosted Firs Ranch where they meet Tucker, a 26 years old bull rider co-owner of the ranch.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is the 2nd-book in Janet Dailey's Frosted Firs Ranch series. It has an Hallmark vibe and delivers a Christmas magic during the reading. It' cozy and comfy and I liked the vibes it brings while reading it. However, I'm not particulary fond with how the story was written: firstable there is not only one story but two, the one between Tucker and Nicky is the main one sure, but there is also a smaller love story with the characters povs which I found a little bit off, not for their story per se, more for the fact that it is in the middle of a book that does not belong to them. The different povs are usually not a problem to me but 4 different povs are too many, plus the third person makes me feel a little bit distant from the characters, but that's my issue.
The characters are likable altough it doesn't go very deep in their personality, and characters like Roxie and Kylie feel far away from the reality. Being children they should act and talk like kids, but some times they sounded a bit older than their age.
In summary it's a good book if you want a Christmas vibe, but not my personal favourite.
Here’s what you should know:
❤️Two stories
❤️Small town
❤️Single mom x bull rider (1st story)
❤️Single dad (2nd story)
❤️Age gap (2nd story)
❤️Four povs, 3rd person
❤️Spicy level: clean romance (just kisses)
❤️Second of a series (you don’t need the others to understand this but you will find spoilers and you can have a bit more of context)
⚠️TW: death of a parent, heart disease
This book follows the story about Nicky and Tucker. She is 26 years old and single mom of Kyle, an 8 years old girl with the same heart defect her mom has. After a long journey with their RV they stop in Noel with the idea to find a job and settle down in the small town so they can partecipate to a specific hospital program on their disease. During their first night in Noel, Nicky and Kyle park their vehicle at Frosted Firs Ranch where they meet Tucker, a 26 years old bull rider co-owner of the ranch.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is the 2nd-book in Janet Dailey's Frosted Firs Ranch series. It has an Hallmark vibe and delivers a Christmas magic during the reading. It' cozy and comfy and I liked the vibes it brings while reading it. However, I'm not particulary fond with how the story was written: firstable there is not only one story but two, the one between Tucker and Nicky is the main one sure, but there is also a smaller love story with the characters povs which I found a little bit off, not for their story per se, more for the fact that it is in the middle of a book that does not belong to them. The different povs are usually not a problem to me but 4 different povs are too many, plus the third person makes me feel a little bit distant from the characters, but that's my issue.
The characters are likable altough it doesn't go very deep in their personality, and characters like Roxie and Kylie feel far away from the reality. Being children they should act and talk like kids, but some times they sounded a bit older than their age.
In summary it's a good book if you want a Christmas vibe, but not my personal favourite.
Here’s what you should know:
❤️Two stories
❤️Small town
❤️Single mom x bull rider (1st story)
❤️Single dad (2nd story)
❤️Age gap (2nd story)
❤️Four povs, 3rd person
❤️Spicy level: clean romance (just kisses)
❤️Second of a series (you don’t need the others to understand this but you will find spoilers and you can have a bit more of context)
⚠️TW: death of a parent, heart disease
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Are you in the mood for a heartwarming, sweet romance? Like Christmas feels? How about a small town?
If you said ‘yes’ to any of the above, you need to put this one on your Christmas list for next year! It’s to be released on August 25, 2026.
Although this is the second book in the Frosted Firs Ranch series, it can be read alone. If you’d like continuity on the Reed family and events in Noel, North Carolina, then read it as a series.
Did you know that North Carolina is the second-largest producer of Christmas trees in the USA? It seems fitting, then, that this book is set in a fictional town, Noel, in North Carolina.
Twenty-five-year-old single mom Nicole Vaughn pulls her RV into the first spot she can find when she’s learned that her reservation is lost and there’s no room at the Tinsel Tree RV Inn. When she steps outside the next morning, she runs into a man who tells her that she’s parked on private property - a Christmas tree farm, Frosted Firs Ranch.
How the situation is dealt with propels this wonderful story and confirms for the reader that there are still plenty of kind and gracious people in the world, but more importantly, shows us that responding rather than reacting is a much better way to solve a challenge.
Tucker Reed, 26, and the co-owner of the ranch, may be a bull rider, but he’s got a soft heart and looks for solutions rather than dwells on problems.
If you’ve read book one, Nate’s story continues.
I appreciated an exploration of wonderfully crafted characters who are fragile but not broken and who are given a second chance at romance, a reminder that fear limits our success, and the encouragement to make fresh starts and to take risks.
I hope there’s another book planned by Dailey’s team. She passed away in 2013 and her notes have been used to craft this series.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
If you said ‘yes’ to any of the above, you need to put this one on your Christmas list for next year! It’s to be released on August 25, 2026.
Although this is the second book in the Frosted Firs Ranch series, it can be read alone. If you’d like continuity on the Reed family and events in Noel, North Carolina, then read it as a series.
Did you know that North Carolina is the second-largest producer of Christmas trees in the USA? It seems fitting, then, that this book is set in a fictional town, Noel, in North Carolina.
Twenty-five-year-old single mom Nicole Vaughn pulls her RV into the first spot she can find when she’s learned that her reservation is lost and there’s no room at the Tinsel Tree RV Inn. When she steps outside the next morning, she runs into a man who tells her that she’s parked on private property - a Christmas tree farm, Frosted Firs Ranch.
How the situation is dealt with propels this wonderful story and confirms for the reader that there are still plenty of kind and gracious people in the world, but more importantly, shows us that responding rather than reacting is a much better way to solve a challenge.
Tucker Reed, 26, and the co-owner of the ranch, may be a bull rider, but he’s got a soft heart and looks for solutions rather than dwells on problems.
If you’ve read book one, Nate’s story continues.
I appreciated an exploration of wonderfully crafted characters who are fragile but not broken and who are given a second chance at romance, a reminder that fear limits our success, and the encouragement to make fresh starts and to take risks.
I hope there’s another book planned by Dailey’s team. She passed away in 2013 and her notes have been used to craft this series.
I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
There’s something about a small-town Christmas story that makes you want to curl up under a blanket, sip cocoa, and stay awhile—and Mistletoe and Rodeos delivers exactly that kind of warmth. This clean, feel-good holiday romance blends cowboy grit with festive charm, reminding readers that love and community often bloom in the most unexpected places.
The story follows Nicky, a single mom who arrives in town just in time for the Christmas . Between family gatherings, snowy nights, and the scent of pine in the air, the author draws you right into the heart of small-town life. The chemistry between the main characters develops naturally, with sweet tension that feels genuine and heartwarming rather than forced.What really shines here is the atmosphere. local gossip, and plenty of cowboy charm. The dialogue is engaging and often playful, balancing out the quieter, more emotional moments. The romance itself is clean but heartfelt, making this story perfect for readers who love wholesome holiday reads.
If there’s one small quibble, it’s that the pacing dips slightly in the middle, spending a bit too long on background details that slow the central romance. Still, the heartfelt ending and seasonal joy more than make up for it.Mistletoe and Rodeos is a delightful reminder that Christmas magic isn’t just about sparkling lights—it’s about second chances, family, and the rodeo of life itself. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber or RaeAnne Thayne, this is the kind of cozy novel that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an advance copy for me to review.
The story follows Nicky, a single mom who arrives in town just in time for the Christmas . Between family gatherings, snowy nights, and the scent of pine in the air, the author draws you right into the heart of small-town life. The chemistry between the main characters develops naturally, with sweet tension that feels genuine and heartwarming rather than forced.What really shines here is the atmosphere. local gossip, and plenty of cowboy charm. The dialogue is engaging and often playful, balancing out the quieter, more emotional moments. The romance itself is clean but heartfelt, making this story perfect for readers who love wholesome holiday reads.
If there’s one small quibble, it’s that the pacing dips slightly in the middle, spending a bit too long on background details that slow the central romance. Still, the heartfelt ending and seasonal joy more than make up for it.Mistletoe and Rodeos is a delightful reminder that Christmas magic isn’t just about sparkling lights—it’s about second chances, family, and the rodeo of life itself. Perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber or RaeAnne Thayne, this is the kind of cozy novel that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for providing an advance copy for me to review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you netgalley and the publisher for this arc copy in exchange for a review!
This was a solid 4 star read. The reason I didn't rate it higher is because some parts were a little slow which made me put the book down several times because I was a tee bit bored...but I did enjoy the story as I kept moving forward!
I didn't connect with the characters to much to the point where I would constantly think about them afterwards, but I did understand them all which was close enough for me.
The story follows Nicky and her daughter Kyle. Who end up parking their Rv at Tuckers land (also Nate's and Jorydn) But instead of calling the cops because they trespassed Tucker ask if she needed a job because he is planning to leave and live his traveling around the world riding bulls? And then there was a subplot romance between a 74 year old lady and a 50 something year old man...this caught me by surprise guys and I'm still debating if this is meant to be or just weird. Because I was weirded out but low-key found them cute sometimes....idek what I'm talking about anymore let's just move one.
The good thing for me was that I was able to picture this story as a hallmark movie and saw everything happening as if it was playing on my TV. So this book was immersive in some cases. And even with these 12 chapters the romance didn't feel rushed just a bit of insta love and then some, but definitely didn't give me whiplash.
Overall great read and I would recommend this to anyone that wants a clean Christmas read!
This was a solid 4 star read. The reason I didn't rate it higher is because some parts were a little slow which made me put the book down several times because I was a tee bit bored...but I did enjoy the story as I kept moving forward!
I didn't connect with the characters to much to the point where I would constantly think about them afterwards, but I did understand them all which was close enough for me.
The story follows Nicky and her daughter Kyle. Who end up parking their Rv at Tuckers land (also Nate's and Jorydn) But instead of calling the cops because they trespassed Tucker ask if she needed a job because he is planning to leave and live his traveling around the world riding bulls? And then there was a subplot romance between a 74 year old lady and a 50 something year old man...this caught me by surprise guys and I'm still debating if this is meant to be or just weird. Because I was weirded out but low-key found them cute sometimes....idek what I'm talking about anymore let's just move one.
The good thing for me was that I was able to picture this story as a hallmark movie and saw everything happening as if it was playing on my TV. So this book was immersive in some cases. And even with these 12 chapters the romance didn't feel rushed just a bit of insta love and then some, but definitely didn't give me whiplash.
Overall great read and I would recommend this to anyone that wants a clean Christmas read!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This is book TWO but can be read as a standalone.
There’s just something about a cozy small town Christmas romance, and Mistletoe and Rodeos captures that comforting, festive feeling perfectly. From snowy nights to warm community gatherings, this story wraps you up in holiday charm while blending heartfelt romance with a touch of cowboy grit. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to slow down, get comfortable, and soak in the season. ❄️
The novel centers on Nicky, a single mother who arrives in town right as Christmas approaches. As she settles into the rhythm of small town life, complete with family traditions, local chatter, and the winter air.
The relationship between the main characters grows at an easy, believable pace, filled with gentle tension and emotional sincerity rather than over the top drama.
What stands out most is the atmosphere. A wonderful job was done bringing the town to life through playful dialogue, community connections, and plenty of that classic cowboy charm.
While the middle slows slightly due to extended background details, the story more than makes up for it with a touching conclusion!
Mistletoe and Rodeos is a sweet reminder that the true magic of Christmas lies in second chances, family, and finding love where you least expect it.
I also find it really sweet that they compiled Janet Dailey’s notes, who passed away in 2013 to create Frosted Firs Ranch series. 🩷
This is book TWO but can be read as a standalone.
There’s just something about a cozy small town Christmas romance, and Mistletoe and Rodeos captures that comforting, festive feeling perfectly. From snowy nights to warm community gatherings, this story wraps you up in holiday charm while blending heartfelt romance with a touch of cowboy grit. It’s the kind of book that makes you want to slow down, get comfortable, and soak in the season. ❄️
The novel centers on Nicky, a single mother who arrives in town right as Christmas approaches. As she settles into the rhythm of small town life, complete with family traditions, local chatter, and the winter air.
The relationship between the main characters grows at an easy, believable pace, filled with gentle tension and emotional sincerity rather than over the top drama.
What stands out most is the atmosphere. A wonderful job was done bringing the town to life through playful dialogue, community connections, and plenty of that classic cowboy charm.
While the middle slows slightly due to extended background details, the story more than makes up for it with a touching conclusion!
Mistletoe and Rodeos is a sweet reminder that the true magic of Christmas lies in second chances, family, and finding love where you least expect it.
I also find it really sweet that they compiled Janet Dailey’s notes, who passed away in 2013 to create Frosted Firs Ranch series. 🩷
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the eARC for my honest review.
There’s something comforting about settling into a Janet Dailey Christmas novel, and this second book in the Frosted Firs Ranch series delivers that familiar holiday warmth. The writing is gentle and inviting, perfectly suited to a festive read that focuses on character and heart.
Nicole Vaughn, a young single mother, and her daughter Kyle find themselves unexpectedly parked at Frosted Firs Ranch, where they meet Tucker Reed, one of the owners. What follows is a romance built on kindness, patience, and quiet connection rather than conflict. The relationship unfolds naturally through thoughtful dialogue and meaningful moments.
The characters feel emotionally grounded and easy to care about. Nicole is resilient and sincere, while Tucker—part bull rider, part soft-hearted caretaker—brings a steady warmth to the story. Their connection is shaped by vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to start over.
Set in the charming town of Noel, North Carolina, the Christmas tree ranch setting adds cozy seasonal magic without overwhelming the story. Though part of a series, this book works well as a standalone while offering continuity for returning readers.
A warm, character-driven holiday romance that captures the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of fresh beginnings.
There’s something comforting about settling into a Janet Dailey Christmas novel, and this second book in the Frosted Firs Ranch series delivers that familiar holiday warmth. The writing is gentle and inviting, perfectly suited to a festive read that focuses on character and heart.
Nicole Vaughn, a young single mother, and her daughter Kyle find themselves unexpectedly parked at Frosted Firs Ranch, where they meet Tucker Reed, one of the owners. What follows is a romance built on kindness, patience, and quiet connection rather than conflict. The relationship unfolds naturally through thoughtful dialogue and meaningful moments.
The characters feel emotionally grounded and easy to care about. Nicole is resilient and sincere, while Tucker—part bull rider, part soft-hearted caretaker—brings a steady warmth to the story. Their connection is shaped by vulnerability, second chances, and the courage to start over.
Set in the charming town of Noel, North Carolina, the Christmas tree ranch setting adds cozy seasonal magic without overwhelming the story. Though part of a series, this book works well as a standalone while offering continuity for returning readers.
A warm, character-driven holiday romance that captures the spirit of Christmas and the beauty of fresh beginnings.
December 30, 2025
Thanks to Kensington Publishing and NetGalley for allowing me to review this book. This is the second book to the series. Tucker is a bull rider that has taken a pause from that life to help his older brother Nate who lost his wife to the birth of his baby girl Roxie. Tucker is known in Noel North Carolina as a bit of a player always flirting with all the ladies around. One late night single mom Nicky rolls into town with her 8 year old daughter Kyle. They both have heart conditions and have to be careful. Nicky is tired but her RV spot was released when they came in too late. Tucker finds them trespassing on his property the next morning. Pretty sure sparks fly from the moment they each laid eyes on each other. It is a good story but it also has a second love story happening as well. One of the nana’s, Kandy and Max the coffee shop owner. Max’s daughter has come back to town for Christmas and to help with Nate and Jordyn’s wedding. She finds out about her dad dating Kandy who is 15 years older than Max who is 60. It is truly a sad hurtful moment for all involved. I think I liked the first book better because it was just about the community, Nate & Jordyn love story. This one seemed rushed. Still good though.
Mistletoe and Rodeo: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
Pub Date: Aug 25 2026
Archive Date: Jun 02 2026
Mistletoe and Rodeo: https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/boo...
Pub Date: Aug 25 2026
Archive Date: Jun 02 2026
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you netgalley for this ARC copy. My review comes with my own opinion and truthful.
This is my first Janet Dailey book and to be honest I wasn't impressed. Reading the description I was expecting something a little different. I did fall in love with Tucker and Nicky. They make a great couple but I feel like their own book was lacking because another story of Max and Kandy was thrown in. I am ok with side characters starting something in a book so it would lead towards the next book in a series but this was a whole storyline.
I feel like not enough was explored with Tucker and Nicky. There were time jumps that I feel could have been explored more since they were hiding their togetherness.
The description of the book also stated that Kyle (I had to always think of it as Kylie) was in need of a heart when in the story it was just of a little 8 year old girl who has a genetic heart condition navigating what she can and cannot do. No where was it mentioned she was waiting on a heart. That could have been a better amp up of the story between Nicky and Tucker.
I know its a great little story but I feel like so much character development was lacking and some aspects of the story were not realistic.
This is my first Janet Dailey book and to be honest I wasn't impressed. Reading the description I was expecting something a little different. I did fall in love with Tucker and Nicky. They make a great couple but I feel like their own book was lacking because another story of Max and Kandy was thrown in. I am ok with side characters starting something in a book so it would lead towards the next book in a series but this was a whole storyline.
I feel like not enough was explored with Tucker and Nicky. There were time jumps that I feel could have been explored more since they were hiding their togetherness.
The description of the book also stated that Kyle (I had to always think of it as Kylie) was in need of a heart when in the story it was just of a little 8 year old girl who has a genetic heart condition navigating what she can and cannot do. No where was it mentioned she was waiting on a heart. That could have been a better amp up of the story between Nicky and Tucker.
I know its a great little story but I feel like so much character development was lacking and some aspects of the story were not realistic.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Think Hallmark movie meets Nicholas Sparks. There's a combination of really three different couples you're following in the story. The first Nicky and her daughter Kyle have been on a year long road trip all leading to their final destination of Noel, one of the Christmas capitals of the world. They find theirselves finding a spot to stay for the night that happens to be off a Christmas tree farm of Tucker and his brother Nate. Right off the bat Tucker offers her a job while they get settled. However what he didn't know is that both Nicky and Kyle have a genetic heart condition that makes a lot of physical activity hard for them. The family envelopes them into it even including them in Nates wedding. Then you have the other couple Max and Kandy who have been hiding their relationship from everyone because Kandy is afraid of what everyone will think of the age difference since she's 15 years older than Max at 74 to his 59. There's also the fact that Nicky is afraid to get really close to Tucker because hes supposed to be leaving the day after Christmas to go back to the rodeo.
Overall after the first few chapters it was a quick sweet read.
I received this book as an ARC
Overall after the first few chapters it was a quick sweet read.
I received this book as an ARC
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mistletoe and Rodeo is exactly the cozy, holiday read I wanted, but it’s the story’s craft and insight that make it truly special.
The story follows Nicole and her daughter, Kyle, as they navigate moving to a new town that offers healthcare for their shared heart defects. Nicole struggles to balance letting Kyle enjoy life as a child should, with protecting her heart. It is in one of these moments that she meets Tucker, a handsome bull rider who’s been in the small town helping his brother run Frosted Firs Ranch. Their chemistry is instant, but their paths are so different, it seems impossible that anything beyond friendship could ever work between them.
What’s unique about this holiday read is that it not only weaves together several perspectives (beyond those of the main characters) but also more than one love story. Together, the couples offer insight into what matters in life and love while also exploring how scary it can be to take a risk on happiness.
This book is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Thank you, Kensington Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The story follows Nicole and her daughter, Kyle, as they navigate moving to a new town that offers healthcare for their shared heart defects. Nicole struggles to balance letting Kyle enjoy life as a child should, with protecting her heart. It is in one of these moments that she meets Tucker, a handsome bull rider who’s been in the small town helping his brother run Frosted Firs Ranch. Their chemistry is instant, but their paths are so different, it seems impossible that anything beyond friendship could ever work between them.
What’s unique about this holiday read is that it not only weaves together several perspectives (beyond those of the main characters) but also more than one love story. Together, the couples offer insight into what matters in life and love while also exploring how scary it can be to take a risk on happiness.
This book is part of a series, but it can be read as a standalone.
Thank you, Kensington Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley. The views are all my own.
I really liked Mistletoe and Rodeo. The MFC Nicky was so sweet, and I loved the interactions between her and the family she met. I got a little tired of reading about her heart condition. I feel like her entire personality was based around her being worried all the time. It’s probably quite realistic, but it was hard to read about it every chapter she was in. The MMC Tucker was adorable. I loved watching him learn to love Nicky and her daughter Kyle. Their love story seemed to move fast; I think this book only covered a few weeks time.
My favorite couple was actually the secondary couple in the book, Max and Kandy. Their story kept me interested, although they both acted a little younger than they were. They were so cute together, and I’m glad they got a chance to tell their story.
This was a Hallmark type book that I really enjoyed reading. It was very fast paced, so I was able to read it fairly quickly. Id give it 4 stars only because I grew very tired of Nicky telling Kyle to slow down, and her constantly worried about how their condition could get worse. Super cute book!
I really liked Mistletoe and Rodeo. The MFC Nicky was so sweet, and I loved the interactions between her and the family she met. I got a little tired of reading about her heart condition. I feel like her entire personality was based around her being worried all the time. It’s probably quite realistic, but it was hard to read about it every chapter she was in. The MMC Tucker was adorable. I loved watching him learn to love Nicky and her daughter Kyle. Their love story seemed to move fast; I think this book only covered a few weeks time.
My favorite couple was actually the secondary couple in the book, Max and Kandy. Their story kept me interested, although they both acted a little younger than they were. They were so cute together, and I’m glad they got a chance to tell their story.
This was a Hallmark type book that I really enjoyed reading. It was very fast paced, so I was able to read it fairly quickly. Id give it 4 stars only because I grew very tired of Nicky telling Kyle to slow down, and her constantly worried about how their condition could get worse. Super cute book!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mistletoe and Rodeo is a contemporary Christmas-themed romance set in the small, festive town of Noel, North Carolina. It follows Nicole “Nicky” Vaughn, a 25-year-old single mom traveling with her young daughter Kyle, who arrives in Noel struggling financially and emotionally. At the Frosted Firs Ranch she meets Tucker Reed, a former rodeo bull rider helping run his brother’s ranch. As the holiday season unfolds, they form a tender connection while coping with personal fears about love, family, and future happiness.
The book blends small-town charm, Christmas spirit, and heartfelt romance with themes of resilience, second chances, and the challenges of blended family dynamics. The setting’s cozy holiday atmosphere and community spirit give it a warm, uplifting feel typical of modern seasonal romance.
I found it sweet and charming, though maybe not quite as magical as the first book Evergreen Christmas.
If you enjoy gentle holiday romances with family-focused storylines and cozy settings, this is likely a pleasant and heartwarming read—even if it isn’t the most unforgettable novel in Dailey’s long-running output
The book blends small-town charm, Christmas spirit, and heartfelt romance with themes of resilience, second chances, and the challenges of blended family dynamics. The setting’s cozy holiday atmosphere and community spirit give it a warm, uplifting feel typical of modern seasonal romance.
I found it sweet and charming, though maybe not quite as magical as the first book Evergreen Christmas.
If you enjoy gentle holiday romances with family-focused storylines and cozy settings, this is likely a pleasant and heartwarming read—even if it isn’t the most unforgettable novel in Dailey’s long-running output
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy of this novel.
A woman and her eight-year old daughter arrive in Noel, North Carolina at the end of a year-long visit around the eastern US. Nicole and Kyle will be patients at the Heart clinic in town in January, as they both have inherited heart defects. They are camping in a fifth-wheel on private property and the owner meets them in the morning, and (surprisingly) offers Nicky a job. He's a very attractive man, and tells her he's leaving just after Christmas to go on the bull-riding rodeo circuit. She begins work on his and his brother's property, a Christmas tree farm and develops a webpage with innovative purchasing offers. Tucker and Nicky are attracted to each other, and decide to be friends until he leaves.
This was a super sticky sweet story, and things happened very quickly - imagine getting a job within half an hour of meeting someone? Not at good as the Christmas Tree Ranch series, which I loved. I wouldn't bother with any more in this series.
A woman and her eight-year old daughter arrive in Noel, North Carolina at the end of a year-long visit around the eastern US. Nicole and Kyle will be patients at the Heart clinic in town in January, as they both have inherited heart defects. They are camping in a fifth-wheel on private property and the owner meets them in the morning, and (surprisingly) offers Nicky a job. He's a very attractive man, and tells her he's leaving just after Christmas to go on the bull-riding rodeo circuit. She begins work on his and his brother's property, a Christmas tree farm and develops a webpage with innovative purchasing offers. Tucker and Nicky are attracted to each other, and decide to be friends until he leaves.
This was a super sticky sweet story, and things happened very quickly - imagine getting a job within half an hour of meeting someone? Not at good as the Christmas Tree Ranch series, which I loved. I wouldn't bother with any more in this series.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thank you to the Publisher and NetGalley for the eARC for my honest review.
Christmas would not be the same without spending an afternoon reading the newest Janet Dailey Christmas novel. As the second novel in the Frosted Firs series, it is not necessary to read them in order as I have not. This novel picks up with Nicole Vaughn and her daughter Kyle parking her fifth wheel at the Forest Firs Ranch in the middle of the night to sleep. When they wake up in the morning, they meet Tucker Reed, one of the owners. This begins the novel filled with the holiday spirit and what Christmas is all about.
I found it to be a cozy romance with a touch of obstacles to be overcome as the two main characters work together. It also includes a later in life romance and the way it affects those around them as well heart health conditions. As the novel is set for release August 2026, I will not be giving too much away.
Christmas would not be the same without spending an afternoon reading the newest Janet Dailey Christmas novel. As the second novel in the Frosted Firs series, it is not necessary to read them in order as I have not. This novel picks up with Nicole Vaughn and her daughter Kyle parking her fifth wheel at the Forest Firs Ranch in the middle of the night to sleep. When they wake up in the morning, they meet Tucker Reed, one of the owners. This begins the novel filled with the holiday spirit and what Christmas is all about.
I found it to be a cozy romance with a touch of obstacles to be overcome as the two main characters work together. It also includes a later in life romance and the way it affects those around them as well heart health conditions. As the novel is set for release August 2026, I will not be giving too much away.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A big thank you to NetGalley for the advanced reading copy (ARC) of Mistletoe and Rodeo. The Lit Whisperer’s analysis finds this to be a heartwarming holiday journey that feels like a Hallmark movie meets Nicholas Sparks. This story stands out by following three distinct couples, each with their own unique emotional stakes.
The primary thread follows Nicky and her daughter Kyle, who arrive at a Christmas tree farm in Noel after a year-long road trip. The narrative handles their genetic heart condition with sensitivity, showing how they find a home within Tucker and Nate’s welcoming family. I also appreciated the refreshing inclusion of Max and Kandy, an older couple navigating a 15-year age difference. While the conflict regarding Tucker's return to the rodeo adds a touch of tension, the book remains a quick, sweet read after the first few chapters. A solid 4 stars for a cozy, multi-generational Christmas tale.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer.
The primary thread follows Nicky and her daughter Kyle, who arrive at a Christmas tree farm in Noel after a year-long road trip. The narrative handles their genetic heart condition with sensitivity, showing how they find a home within Tucker and Nate’s welcoming family. I also appreciated the refreshing inclusion of Max and Kandy, an older couple navigating a 15-year age difference. While the conflict regarding Tucker's return to the rodeo adds a touch of tension, the book remains a quick, sweet read after the first few chapters. A solid 4 stars for a cozy, multi-generational Christmas tale.
Follow me for more reviews @TheLitWhisperer.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received an ARC of this book. Mistletoe and Rodeo was a cute, cosy read and a nice comfort romance. It wasn’t anything particularly groundbreaking or high-stakes, but sometimes that’s exactly what you want — and I’m always a sucker for a cowboy romance.
The characters were genuinely likeable and easy to root for. The romance is a slow burn, though the attraction is there from early on, which made their dynamic fun and engaging without feeling rushed. It leaned more on sweetness than drama, which suited the overall tone of the story well.
It’s a short book and a very easy read — perfect for switching your brain off, getting comfy, and enjoying a light romance without a big emotional commitment. While it wasn’t as good as some cowboy romances I’ve read, this was a really enjoyable Christmassy romance.
Overall, a sweet cowboy Christmas romance that’s ideal if you’re in the mood for something soft, simple, and cosy.
The characters were genuinely likeable and easy to root for. The romance is a slow burn, though the attraction is there from early on, which made their dynamic fun and engaging without feeling rushed. It leaned more on sweetness than drama, which suited the overall tone of the story well.
It’s a short book and a very easy read — perfect for switching your brain off, getting comfy, and enjoying a light romance without a big emotional commitment. While it wasn’t as good as some cowboy romances I’ve read, this was a really enjoyable Christmassy romance.
Overall, a sweet cowboy Christmas romance that’s ideal if you’re in the mood for something soft, simple, and cosy.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Mistletoe and Rodeo continues the legacy of Janet Dailey with a heartwarming, sweet and soul nourishing stories with a hint of rodeos/cowboys thrown in. Nicole and her daughter are both dealing with heart defects and have travelled the country’s natural wonders in an RV…only to find the wonder of friendship, support and found family together at Christmas in the town of Noel, North Carolina. Tucker, a rodeo bull rider, has put his career and dreams on hold to support his brother and niece when they needed him and is planning to restart his rodeo career after Christmas. Tucker and Nicole have an immediate connection but Nicole’s medical uncertainties and Tucker’s plan to leave provide complications. The thought of relying on someone and losing them just when needs them is challenging for someone in Nicole’s position dealing with medical issues facing herself and her daughter. It is a beautiful and lovely story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
this read very much like a hallmark holiday movie. very cozy and whimsical!!
nicky is an out of towner who parks her rv on tucker’s christmas tree farm lot. tucker goes to confront nicky for trespassing but feels some insta connection and offers her a job and a place to stay all in the same meeting. it felt very convenient but it tracks with the hallmark vibes.
i actually liked all of the characters in this book (okay maybe not cassie). max and kandi having their own side story was surprising but also kind of sweet. i loved tucker. he’s fun and energetic but intuitive to others needs and a total family man.
nicky (25) has a daughter, kyle (8), but repeatedly talks about meeting kyles dad when she was 18. if my math is correct she wouldve had to have kyle’s at 17 to be 25 with an 8 year old?? im thinking she needed to be pregnant at 16/17 to have an 8 year old but what do i know. it was just very distracting when it came up.
thank you netgalley for the arc
nicky is an out of towner who parks her rv on tucker’s christmas tree farm lot. tucker goes to confront nicky for trespassing but feels some insta connection and offers her a job and a place to stay all in the same meeting. it felt very convenient but it tracks with the hallmark vibes.
i actually liked all of the characters in this book (okay maybe not cassie). max and kandi having their own side story was surprising but also kind of sweet. i loved tucker. he’s fun and energetic but intuitive to others needs and a total family man.
nicky (25) has a daughter, kyle (8), but repeatedly talks about meeting kyles dad when she was 18. if my math is correct she wouldve had to have kyle’s at 17 to be 25 with an 8 year old?? im thinking she needed to be pregnant at 16/17 to have an 8 year old but what do i know. it was just very distracting when it came up.
thank you netgalley for the arc
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Nicole Vaughn llega a Noel con una casa rodante, una hija curiosa y un corazón que la obliga a vivir con cuidado. El plan es sencillo cerrar un largo viaje y encontrar un lugar estable para empezar de nuevo durante la temporada más luminosa del año. Todo se complica cuando madre e hija despiertan en un campo cubierto de nieve que no les pertenece y conocen a Tucker Reed, un vaquero dueño de un rancho navideño que parece tan firme como la tierra que pisa. Mientras los días se llenan de árboles, rodeo y tradiciones, Nicole deberá decidir si es posible echar raíces sin miedo y si su corazón puede arriesgarse otra vez en un lugar que huele a pino y promesas.
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Me gustó que fue un 2x1 en historias de amor, por un lado N y T y por el otro K y M.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
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Me gustó que fue un 2x1 en historias de amor, por un lado N y T y por el otro K y M.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest opinion.
January 14, 2026
Title: Mistletoe and Rodeo
Author: Janet Dailey
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Christmas tree farm. Experiencing life. Genetic heart conditions. Finding love when you least expect it.
Takeaways:
1. Janet Dailey books take me back to when I first discovered romance books by Silhouette and Harlequin. Dailey was one that my mom read a lot, so they were accessible to sneak into my room and read.
2. The constant thought of their heart conditions was eye rolling by the 15% read mark.
3. This is a great light romance (no spice) that is a palette cleanser after a heavy read. My timing was a little off since Christmas was a month ago.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book will be published on August 25, 2026.
#arc #netgalley #bookstagram #kensingtonpublishing #mistletoeandrodeo #janetdailey
Author: Janet Dailey
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Christmas tree farm. Experiencing life. Genetic heart conditions. Finding love when you least expect it.
Takeaways:
1. Janet Dailey books take me back to when I first discovered romance books by Silhouette and Harlequin. Dailey was one that my mom read a lot, so they were accessible to sneak into my room and read.
2. The constant thought of their heart conditions was eye rolling by the 15% read mark.
3. This is a great light romance (no spice) that is a palette cleanser after a heavy read. My timing was a little off since Christmas was a month ago.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for the advanced copy. Opinions expressed are my own. This book will be published on August 25, 2026.
#arc #netgalley #bookstagram #kensingtonpublishing #mistletoeandrodeo #janetdailey
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4⭐ Mistletoe and Rodeo is book two in the Frosted Firs Ranch Series. It can be read as a standalone but I highly recommend reading Evergreen Christmas first so you know the characters more and can get more out of the book and see the changes in the MMC behavior with women.
This is a well written, short Christmas book that can be read in a day. I couldn't put it down. It is a Hallmark movie style story about Kyle and Nikki who both have congenital heart diseases and move to Noel so Kyle (8) can be part of cardiac treatment trial. Tucker and Nikki have chemistry right away and build a friendship quickly but Tucker has reservations about anything more because he is going to be leaving town for the first time in 6 years and start bull riding again.
I highly recommend this small town romance book/series.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC opportunity!
This is a well written, short Christmas book that can be read in a day. I couldn't put it down. It is a Hallmark movie style story about Kyle and Nikki who both have congenital heart diseases and move to Noel so Kyle (8) can be part of cardiac treatment trial. Tucker and Nikki have chemistry right away and build a friendship quickly but Tucker has reservations about anything more because he is going to be leaving town for the first time in 6 years and start bull riding again.
I highly recommend this small town romance book/series.
Thank you Netgalley for the ARC opportunity!
February 13, 2026
Kyle has a congenital heart disease that could potentially worsen rapidly. She was offered a space in a program that studies genetic heart conditions in children and adults. This conditions prevents Kyle from having a normal and active childhood. Nicole Vaughnn, her mother, has the same condition and has done everything in her power to keep her daughter healthy, safe, and alive.
They live in an RV and are looking for a place to settle. They arrive at Noel, North Carolina, in where Kyle gets to play in the snow for the day. Here Nicole meets Tucker Reed, co-owner of Frosted First Ranch, a tree farm who instantly feels a connection to. He offers her a place for her RV and a job. Nicky takes it. Her and her daughter soon become part of a family they didn’t know they were needing.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is a heartwarming short story you cannot miss. It is absolutely worth the read.
They live in an RV and are looking for a place to settle. They arrive at Noel, North Carolina, in where Kyle gets to play in the snow for the day. Here Nicole meets Tucker Reed, co-owner of Frosted First Ranch, a tree farm who instantly feels a connection to. He offers her a place for her RV and a job. Nicky takes it. Her and her daughter soon become part of a family they didn’t know they were needing.
Mistletoe and Rodeo is a heartwarming short story you cannot miss. It is absolutely worth the read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Honestly? I’m ready to pack my bags and move to Noel, North Carolina.
There is something special about Frosted Firs Ranch—the air is crisp, the community is welcoming, and the neighbors feel like friends from the first page. I loved following Nicky and her daughter, Kyle, on their journey; it’s a beautiful story of grit, grace, and the kind of courage that leads to the sweetest new beginnings.
This book feels like a warm hug and is the perfect cozy Christmas read. Do yourself a favor and add it to your list now! 🎄
A big thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.
#CozyChristmas #FrostedFirsRanch #MistletoeandRodeo #BookReview #HolidayReads
There is something special about Frosted Firs Ranch—the air is crisp, the community is welcoming, and the neighbors feel like friends from the first page. I loved following Nicky and her daughter, Kyle, on their journey; it’s a beautiful story of grit, grace, and the kind of courage that leads to the sweetest new beginnings.
This book feels like a warm hug and is the perfect cozy Christmas read. Do yourself a favor and add it to your list now! 🎄
A big thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing Corp. for the opportunity to read this advanced copy.
#CozyChristmas #FrostedFirsRanch #MistletoeandRodeo #BookReview #HolidayReads
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