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Hearts and Crafts #0.5
Blame It on the Mistletoe: A Holiday Story
Sometimes all it takes is a leap of faith for Christmas to work its own magic in BLAME IT ON THE MISTLETOE
’Tis the season for small-town Missouri boutique owner Brooke Abbott to get crafty. Much as she adores making art for art’s sake—decorating windows, designing ornaments, crafting the perfect present for under the tree—this Christmas she needs the gift of good customers. Lots of them. Sweet Opal Studios will go under if she can’t do some serious business before the New Year…and she has no time to lose. What Brooke needs is an honest-to-goodness miracle. Instead, she finds a burglar lurking in the back room of her shop. And here she thought the holidays couldn’t get any worse!Or maybe things just got a lot better. Turns out the burglar is none other than Alex Coleman—local bad boy slash legendary heartthrob, childhood best friend to Brooke’s older brother, and…future landlord? That is the question. He’s come home for the holidays to see his grandmother, make peace with his distant mother, and settle his grandfather’s estate, an estate that includes the building that houses Sweet Opal. What he never expected was to bump into a grown-up Brooke, whose spirit, charm, and irresistible good looks give him pause. Should he go back to Oregon as planned, or give small-town life a chance? The only thing Alex knows for sure is that before he walks out that door, he’s going to get Brooke beneath the mistletoe, where anything can happen…
’Tis the season for small-town Missouri boutique owner Brooke Abbott to get crafty. Much as she adores making art for art’s sake—decorating windows, designing ornaments, crafting the perfect present for under the tree—this Christmas she needs the gift of good customers. Lots of them. Sweet Opal Studios will go under if she can’t do some serious business before the New Year…and she has no time to lose. What Brooke needs is an honest-to-goodness miracle. Instead, she finds a burglar lurking in the back room of her shop. And here she thought the holidays couldn’t get any worse!Or maybe things just got a lot better. Turns out the burglar is none other than Alex Coleman—local bad boy slash legendary heartthrob, childhood best friend to Brooke’s older brother, and…future landlord? That is the question. He’s come home for the holidays to see his grandmother, make peace with his distant mother, and settle his grandfather’s estate, an estate that includes the building that houses Sweet Opal. What he never expected was to bump into a grown-up Brooke, whose spirit, charm, and irresistible good looks give him pause. Should he go back to Oregon as planned, or give small-town life a chance? The only thing Alex knows for sure is that before he walks out that door, he’s going to get Brooke beneath the mistletoe, where anything can happen…
153 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 14, 2014
1 person is currently reading
437 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Michaels
10 books85 followersNicole resides in a small town outside of Kansas City with her husband and three sons. When she isn't writing, she's a wedding and portrait photographer, loves to cook, read, and watch historical dramas or documentaries.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
October 27, 2018
A short holiday oldie. Hero was town bad-boy who comes back to town. Heroine was in an abusive relationship but is now rebuilding her life and is the owner of her own shop, which happens to be in the building the hero just inherited. These two quickly fall in bed together and everything was a little too quick & neat for my tastes. I mean hero losing such an expensive deal just so that the heroine could keep her shop was just a bit over the top!
July 24, 2017
I feel kind of betrayed. There was barely any Christmas.
April 20, 2021
What a delightful story! I feel like I just read a Hallmark movie. If you want a feel good story, read this one. It’ll make you happy!
December 22, 2014
Firstly thank you to St Martin’s Press for approving me for a review copy of this title via NetGalley. I was drawn to the book because of the cover and the Christmassy theme!
The story is all about creative Brooke Abbott and her old crush Alex Coleman.
I used to be completely unaware that Christmas reads were such a thing but I absolutely love them, especially at this time of year! I hadn’t ever read anything by Nicole Michaels before though so wasn’t sure what to expect of this Christmas romance and I really enjoyed it!
The story is short and sweet and follows Brooke as she becomes reacquainted with Alex after mistaking him for a burglar. I really liked the creative side of Brooke’s character. It was unique and original to her and her story. Brooke has had a bit of a troubled time with an ex and her store is her new beginning and safe haven. I loved her independence and determination to prove that she could make her dream come true.
Alex, oh Alex. He was gorgeous! Simply by name association I had Alex O’Loughlin in mind when I read this story. I imagined him completely different than who he turned out to be. He’s a bad boy with a really genuine nice guy quality to him too which makes him sweet!
The story is told with a dual narrative, which I really love in a book which allows the story and the characters to develop at a good pace in keeping with the length of the novella. Seeing the story from both sides here also gives you more of an insight into Alex’s character and the reason for his return home which Brooke isn’t privy too which actually makes you root for her all the more!
I can definitely recommend this read on the lead up to Christmas!
The story is all about creative Brooke Abbott and her old crush Alex Coleman.
I used to be completely unaware that Christmas reads were such a thing but I absolutely love them, especially at this time of year! I hadn’t ever read anything by Nicole Michaels before though so wasn’t sure what to expect of this Christmas romance and I really enjoyed it!
The story is short and sweet and follows Brooke as she becomes reacquainted with Alex after mistaking him for a burglar. I really liked the creative side of Brooke’s character. It was unique and original to her and her story. Brooke has had a bit of a troubled time with an ex and her store is her new beginning and safe haven. I loved her independence and determination to prove that she could make her dream come true.
Alex, oh Alex. He was gorgeous! Simply by name association I had Alex O’Loughlin in mind when I read this story. I imagined him completely different than who he turned out to be. He’s a bad boy with a really genuine nice guy quality to him too which makes him sweet!
The story is told with a dual narrative, which I really love in a book which allows the story and the characters to develop at a good pace in keeping with the length of the novella. Seeing the story from both sides here also gives you more of an insight into Alex’s character and the reason for his return home which Brooke isn’t privy too which actually makes you root for her all the more!
I can definitely recommend this read on the lead up to Christmas!
October 20, 2014
Blame It On The Mistletoe by Nicole Michaels is a cute holiday read. It is the story of two people, Brooke and Alex, who knew each other in the past and now have met each other again. It is the story of former friendships and future romances.
Brooke owns a boutique in Missouri and she needs a Christmas miracle. She needs to increase business for the boutique or she may lose it. She is not sure how to do this, but she knows that’s the only way she will still have a business. She has to come up with a plan to make it work.
Alex Coleman is back in town to take care of some family business and he cannot believe his eyes when he sees Brooke. She was the little sister of his best friend, but now she is all grown up. He wants to get reaquainted with her and see if there could be a future. Is there a way that Alex can help Brooke save her business and make her his?
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The characters are well developed and well rounded. Brooke and Alex are people you would like to have as friends. Their relationship is sweet and heartwarming and I just wanted to keep finding out about how the relationship would work out.
If you are in the mood for a light funny holiday read, I would recommend reading this book. I have not read any other books by this author but I plan on picking up more of her books.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Brooke owns a boutique in Missouri and she needs a Christmas miracle. She needs to increase business for the boutique or she may lose it. She is not sure how to do this, but she knows that’s the only way she will still have a business. She has to come up with a plan to make it work.
Alex Coleman is back in town to take care of some family business and he cannot believe his eyes when he sees Brooke. She was the little sister of his best friend, but now she is all grown up. He wants to get reaquainted with her and see if there could be a future. Is there a way that Alex can help Brooke save her business and make her his?
The writing style flows smoothly and the book is a quick easy read. The characters are well developed and well rounded. Brooke and Alex are people you would like to have as friends. Their relationship is sweet and heartwarming and I just wanted to keep finding out about how the relationship would work out.
If you are in the mood for a light funny holiday read, I would recommend reading this book. I have not read any other books by this author but I plan on picking up more of her books.
I received a free copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for a honest review. I would like to thank NetGalley and St. Martin’s Press for the opportunity to read and review this book.
November 22, 2015
3.5-4 stars
I'm just over here sorta crying because this was so unexpectedly lovely. Exactly what I needed to read. Yes, the editing could have used some work, but who cares? At least for tonight, I didn't mind at all. Swoon swoon swoon.
Featured on my 2014 REC IT post.
I'm just over here sorta crying because this was so unexpectedly lovely. Exactly what I needed to read. Yes, the editing could have used some work, but who cares? At least for tonight, I didn't mind at all. Swoon swoon swoon.
Featured on my 2014 REC IT post.
November 2, 2014
This was such a fun read! I loved the characters, Brooke and Alex, and the chemistry between them. And can I just say, I really want to shop at Brooke's shop this Christmas season because it sounds amazing! :) This was a perfect holiday novella, heartfelt and endearing.
December 1, 2015
Super cute and lovely!! Exactly what I was hoping for!
November 2, 2020
I really liked Blame It on the Mistletoe. It was a random pick from my library, but I grabbed it because it takes place in my home state.
Reformed bad boy Alex returns to his small hometown to settle his Grandfather’s estate. He’s inherited the building his former BFF’s little sister Brooke currently occupies. They can’t fight the growing attraction between them, but Alex has to decide what to do with his inheritance and that decision might just tear them apart.
It’s a little cheesy, a little predictable, but I love the “return as a success to the small town that judged you when you were young” vibe. It also had some pretty steamy scenes, with very clear consent talks, so that was a nice surprise
Reformed bad boy Alex returns to his small hometown to settle his Grandfather’s estate. He’s inherited the building his former BFF’s little sister Brooke currently occupies. They can’t fight the growing attraction between them, but Alex has to decide what to do with his inheritance and that decision might just tear them apart.
It’s a little cheesy, a little predictable, but I love the “return as a success to the small town that judged you when you were young” vibe. It also had some pretty steamy scenes, with very clear consent talks, so that was a nice surprise
May 14, 2018
Aq selalu tertarik dengan tradisi kissing under the mistletoe, jadi ketika kutemukan buku ini dengan tidak sengaja, aq senang sekali. Sayangnya eksekusinya kurang rapi. Ketika Alex tidak menepati janjinya kepada Brooke d paruh pertama cerita ini, langsung saja penilaianku berkurang padanya. Pun ketika dia menyembunyikan sebuah kebenaran terkait keberadaan toko Brooke. Kok dia gk bisa jujur ya.. Duh. Trauma Brooke hanya disinggung sekilas dan dia memang terbukti sudah tidak dibayangi rasa takutnya tersebut setelah melihat antusiasmenya ketika bersama Alex *uhuk
Apakah Ryan memiliki ceritanya sendiri? Hmm.. Aw belum hunting buku2 karya Nicole Michaels lainnya
Just 2,5*/5
Apakah Ryan memiliki ceritanya sendiri? Hmm.. Aw belum hunting buku2 karya Nicole Michaels lainnya
Just 2,5*/5
July 31, 2021
Blame It On The Mistletoe is a good girl/bad boy troupe with characters who are growing, learning, and changing. It is set during the holiday season which added a sweetness to it but, did not over whelm it. I think that this is a good introduction to the characters of the Hearts and Crafts series. It can be read alone as well but if you're like me you will fall for these characters and want to see them time and time again.
Read Full Review Here
Read Full Review Here
November 21, 2019
Very good Christmas read.
December 15, 2014
Review Posted on Reading Lark 12/15/14: http://readinglark.blogspot.com/2014/...
I am one of those people who can spend hours watching the Hallmark channel as the winter holidays descend. I love the movies that feature holiday romances and happy endings. I decided that this holiday season that I would spend some time reading stories set around the holidays to supplement my Hallmark movie fix.
Blame it on the Mistletoe is the story of Brooke Abbott, the owner of a local craft and decor shop, and Alex Coleman, the town's former hottie bad boy. Brooke has had a crush on Alex for as long as she can remember, but when he returns to town she assumes that things will be the same as always. Alex will smile and be polite, but he will only see her as the shy and quiet kid she used to be. To make matters worse, Brooke is still reeling from an abusive relationship and Alex has no intention of staying in his tiny Missouri hometown for long. Holiday magic interferes and the two are brought together over and over again until they are forced to pay attention to their attraction for one another.
I loved spending time in Preston with Brooke and Alex. Their story kept me reading and I kept rooting for a happy ending for these two. It should be noted that there are moments when this one leaves the wholesome Hallmark path to deviate towards some pretty steamy moments. I'm typically of the school that more is less regarding intimate moments, but I found that that didn't hinder my enjoyment of this story.
In addition to the romance, I loved the relationship between Brooke and her older brother, Ryan. Ryan is protective of his little sister and wants to help her heal after her negative experiences with her ex. In true older brother fashion, Ryan does interfere from time to time when he shouldn't, but Brooke learns to stand up for herself where he is concerned.
This one is sweet and predictable, but there are times when these are the sort of stories I crave. Blame it on the Mistletoe is the perfect wintery romance to get you in the holiday spirit. I highly recommend curling up with this one next to the glow of your Christmas tree with a mug of hot cocoa.
One Last Gripe: I want more of the town of Preston and its inhabitants. This one ended too soon!
Favorite Thing About This Book: Brooke and Alex's relationship - it is the perfect blend of sugar and spice. Alex is the perfect Book Boyfriend for the holiday season.
First Sentence: Snowflakes whirled around Brooke Abbott's head in blustery waves as she started down the sidewalk and back to her shop from the Stop & Go convenience store.
Favorite Character: I can't decide between Brooke and Alex. I loved them both.
Least Favorite Character: Mr. Orsman
I am one of those people who can spend hours watching the Hallmark channel as the winter holidays descend. I love the movies that feature holiday romances and happy endings. I decided that this holiday season that I would spend some time reading stories set around the holidays to supplement my Hallmark movie fix.
Blame it on the Mistletoe is the story of Brooke Abbott, the owner of a local craft and decor shop, and Alex Coleman, the town's former hottie bad boy. Brooke has had a crush on Alex for as long as she can remember, but when he returns to town she assumes that things will be the same as always. Alex will smile and be polite, but he will only see her as the shy and quiet kid she used to be. To make matters worse, Brooke is still reeling from an abusive relationship and Alex has no intention of staying in his tiny Missouri hometown for long. Holiday magic interferes and the two are brought together over and over again until they are forced to pay attention to their attraction for one another.
I loved spending time in Preston with Brooke and Alex. Their story kept me reading and I kept rooting for a happy ending for these two. It should be noted that there are moments when this one leaves the wholesome Hallmark path to deviate towards some pretty steamy moments. I'm typically of the school that more is less regarding intimate moments, but I found that that didn't hinder my enjoyment of this story.
In addition to the romance, I loved the relationship between Brooke and her older brother, Ryan. Ryan is protective of his little sister and wants to help her heal after her negative experiences with her ex. In true older brother fashion, Ryan does interfere from time to time when he shouldn't, but Brooke learns to stand up for herself where he is concerned.
This one is sweet and predictable, but there are times when these are the sort of stories I crave. Blame it on the Mistletoe is the perfect wintery romance to get you in the holiday spirit. I highly recommend curling up with this one next to the glow of your Christmas tree with a mug of hot cocoa.
One Last Gripe: I want more of the town of Preston and its inhabitants. This one ended too soon!
Favorite Thing About This Book: Brooke and Alex's relationship - it is the perfect blend of sugar and spice. Alex is the perfect Book Boyfriend for the holiday season.
First Sentence: Snowflakes whirled around Brooke Abbott's head in blustery waves as she started down the sidewalk and back to her shop from the Stop & Go convenience store.
Favorite Character: I can't decide between Brooke and Alex. I loved them both.
Least Favorite Character: Mr. Orsman
September 24, 2014
Once again, the Holiday Season is filled with the magic of Mistletoe and Love! Brooke has learned some hard lessons since her days of being the little sister of one of Alex Coleman’s cohorts in crime. Now a struggling shop owner, Brooke is hoping the Christmas season will help keep her shop afloat. The last thing she needed was a burglar, late at night. After braining the said burglar with a pot, she discovers that her childhood crush is back in town and now sporting a “splitting” headache, thanks to her. Humiliating? Embarrassing? Or could it be one of the miracles of Christmas that Alex has returned to town to take care of some family business after a long absence and he sees Brooke in an entirely grown up way?
The sparks fly and things heat up more than coal in a stocking, as these two continually face misunderstanding after misunderstanding, while denying the obvious, with or without Mistletoe, their kisses are magic.
Blame It on the Mistletoe by Nicole Michaels is a quick and light holiday read that will fly by, the perfect escape when time is in short supply but your heart wants to share in the magic of love during the Holidays! Ms. Michaels has threaded conflict, doubt and the fear of making the same mistakes of the past and packaged a wonderful read for the romantic in all of us.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperback in Exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 14, 2014
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
ISBN: 9781466867550
Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance
Print Length: 153 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes& Noble
The sparks fly and things heat up more than coal in a stocking, as these two continually face misunderstanding after misunderstanding, while denying the obvious, with or without Mistletoe, their kisses are magic.
Blame It on the Mistletoe by Nicole Michaels is a quick and light holiday read that will fly by, the perfect escape when time is in short supply but your heart wants to share in the magic of love during the Holidays! Ms. Michaels has threaded conflict, doubt and the fear of making the same mistakes of the past and packaged a wonderful read for the romantic in all of us.
I received an ARC edition from St. Martin's Paperback in Exchange for my honest review.
Publication Date: October 14, 2014
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks
ISBN: 9781466867550
Genre: Contemporary Holiday Romance
Print Length: 153 pages
Available from: Amazon | Barnes& Noble
April 12, 2015
To read this review and others like it check out my site at www.homelovebooks.com
December brings for more Christmas books, so everybody get ready! So first book up this month is Blame it on the Mistletoe, and I have to say I picked this book because I am seriously in love with the cover. It just screams Christmas and it’s also just so cute and adorable, I couldn’t help but want to read it.
So while this is definitely a Christmas read (being that it takes place during the season and there are some definite Christmas themes throughout the book), I honestly think this book would work at any time of the year.
So as it turns out Brooke and Alex know each other from a long time ago, as it turns out is that Alex used to be friends with Brooke’s brother. But a long time has passed, and Alex doesn’t live in town anymore, and Brooke definitely has a past of her own.
Brooke owns this crafty little shop in her small town, and I quite frankly love it. It seems like a shop I would like to visit. I love that she is so crafty (if there was more time in the day I would be as crafty as Brooke is). So one night, she ends up mistaking Alex as an intruder in her store, and the two of them end up talking and remembering each other.
I’m not sure what exactly sticks out to me about why I like this book so much, but I think when it comes down to it I just loved Brooke’s character, and also Alex is such a good guy that it’s really easy to like him. I liked that he was a honorable guy, even though he was more than a little bit misunderstood. But Brooke, she has worked so hard to overcome what happened to her with her ex, and she has carved out a nice little life for herself, and I love that about her. She’s passionate about it, and she gives it her all, which I love.
The writing in the book is really nice and enjoyable, the pacing is great and the story really just flows. It was really easy for me to get caught up in the story, and to really want these characters to end up together. After reading this book I can honestly say I really want to read more of this author. So if you like Christmas books then this book is one you should without a doubt check out.
December brings for more Christmas books, so everybody get ready! So first book up this month is Blame it on the Mistletoe, and I have to say I picked this book because I am seriously in love with the cover. It just screams Christmas and it’s also just so cute and adorable, I couldn’t help but want to read it.
So while this is definitely a Christmas read (being that it takes place during the season and there are some definite Christmas themes throughout the book), I honestly think this book would work at any time of the year.
So as it turns out Brooke and Alex know each other from a long time ago, as it turns out is that Alex used to be friends with Brooke’s brother. But a long time has passed, and Alex doesn’t live in town anymore, and Brooke definitely has a past of her own.
Brooke owns this crafty little shop in her small town, and I quite frankly love it. It seems like a shop I would like to visit. I love that she is so crafty (if there was more time in the day I would be as crafty as Brooke is). So one night, she ends up mistaking Alex as an intruder in her store, and the two of them end up talking and remembering each other.
I’m not sure what exactly sticks out to me about why I like this book so much, but I think when it comes down to it I just loved Brooke’s character, and also Alex is such a good guy that it’s really easy to like him. I liked that he was a honorable guy, even though he was more than a little bit misunderstood. But Brooke, she has worked so hard to overcome what happened to her with her ex, and she has carved out a nice little life for herself, and I love that about her. She’s passionate about it, and she gives it her all, which I love.
The writing in the book is really nice and enjoyable, the pacing is great and the story really just flows. It was really easy for me to get caught up in the story, and to really want these characters to end up together. After reading this book I can honestly say I really want to read more of this author. So if you like Christmas books then this book is one you should without a doubt check out.
October 25, 2014
Blame It on the Mistletoe by Nicole Michaels is a very sweet and charming romance that takes place close to Christmas time. This is the first book I have read by Michaels, and I enjoyed it very much. Brooke Abbott is our heroine, and she runs a small boutique in this small town of Preston, Missouri. Brooke rents her boutique called, Sweet Opal Studios, where she designs and makes her own jewelry, as other wonderful unique trinkets. She is having trouble making ends meet, especially with construction being done by her store, blocking people from noticing her. She meets some of her local store owners, who go out of their way to help spread word of mouth.
Brooke has been staying in the apartment upstairs from the store, to save money, and does not tell the landlord. One day while working, she hears noise upstairs and litteraly runs into Alex Coleman, our hero. Alex is the grandson of the woman who owns the store. He has just come back for a visit and was planning to stay in the apartment. Brooke is shaken, but Alex tells her to stay, and he will go to a hotel. They are friends from childhood, with Alex being Brooke’s brother’s best friend.
What follows is slow build relationship that has Brooke gun shy, as she came off an abusive relationship. Alex at first distances himself, having been threatened by Brooke’s brother to stay away from her. But he is determined to learn more about the now grown up and beautiful Brooke. Their romance was very well done, as I really enjoyed them together. Alex is faced with making a decision in life that will create hardship for Brooke, but make him a very rich man. What will he do, as he sees himself falling in love with Brooke? Will Brooke be able to trust that Alex is not her Ex, and allow herself to follow her heart?
Blame it on the Mistletoe was a very nice storyline, with some great secondary characters. A pure romance during the Christmas holiday, a great couple, and a happy ever after. What more could you want..
Barb
The Reading Cafe
Brooke has been staying in the apartment upstairs from the store, to save money, and does not tell the landlord. One day while working, she hears noise upstairs and litteraly runs into Alex Coleman, our hero. Alex is the grandson of the woman who owns the store. He has just come back for a visit and was planning to stay in the apartment. Brooke is shaken, but Alex tells her to stay, and he will go to a hotel. They are friends from childhood, with Alex being Brooke’s brother’s best friend.
What follows is slow build relationship that has Brooke gun shy, as she came off an abusive relationship. Alex at first distances himself, having been threatened by Brooke’s brother to stay away from her. But he is determined to learn more about the now grown up and beautiful Brooke. Their romance was very well done, as I really enjoyed them together. Alex is faced with making a decision in life that will create hardship for Brooke, but make him a very rich man. What will he do, as he sees himself falling in love with Brooke? Will Brooke be able to trust that Alex is not her Ex, and allow herself to follow her heart?
Blame it on the Mistletoe was a very nice storyline, with some great secondary characters. A pure romance during the Christmas holiday, a great couple, and a happy ever after. What more could you want..
Barb
The Reading Cafe
December 27, 2014
Brooke is struggling to keep her shop afloat and determined to make her dreams come true of having her own shop. One day she finds a stranger in her store who turns out to be her brother’s childhood best friend Alex. Alex was her childhood crush and despite the years of not seeing him, he still can make her heart skip a beat.
Alex has come to town to try to make amends with his mother who wasn’t always there for him growing up. He has also come home to see his grandmother and deal with the aftermath of his grandfather’s death. He learns that his grandfather has left him a building on Main Street which just happens to be the location of Brooke’s shop. While the shop is run downed it has a prime location and is wanted by a company for a major project. Alex doesn’t know what to do since he never was close with his grandfather and the building doesn't hold any emotional attachment to it, but now that he and Brooke have gotten close and a blooming romance is happening he doesn’t want to come between Brooke and her dreams.
I love how this story is all about second chances not only in love but also in life. Each one is dealing issues in their lives which surprisingly each one has helped each other deal with. I also liked how we see them deal with the issues and grow in the process. While Brooke thinks Alex has saved her future it’s really vice versa in my eyes. Brooke has helped him come to terms with his family and has also made Alex want to stay home and build a real life for once.
While Christmas isn’t the main focus of this story it is indeed the perfect backdrop for it. Once again the magic of Christmas shines a light on the miracle of the season, showing us that no matter how down things seem anything wonderful can happen this time of year.
Alex has come to town to try to make amends with his mother who wasn’t always there for him growing up. He has also come home to see his grandmother and deal with the aftermath of his grandfather’s death. He learns that his grandfather has left him a building on Main Street which just happens to be the location of Brooke’s shop. While the shop is run downed it has a prime location and is wanted by a company for a major project. Alex doesn’t know what to do since he never was close with his grandfather and the building doesn't hold any emotional attachment to it, but now that he and Brooke have gotten close and a blooming romance is happening he doesn’t want to come between Brooke and her dreams.
I love how this story is all about second chances not only in love but also in life. Each one is dealing issues in their lives which surprisingly each one has helped each other deal with. I also liked how we see them deal with the issues and grow in the process. While Brooke thinks Alex has saved her future it’s really vice versa in my eyes. Brooke has helped him come to terms with his family and has also made Alex want to stay home and build a real life for once.
While Christmas isn’t the main focus of this story it is indeed the perfect backdrop for it. Once again the magic of Christmas shines a light on the miracle of the season, showing us that no matter how down things seem anything wonderful can happen this time of year.
January 23, 2015
My Review:
This was a really cute holiday reads. Brooke is a shop owner starting out on her own making and selling unique gifts. I kind of wanted one of her necklaces they sound really cute. Alex is back in town to pay his respect to his grandmother now that his grandfather has passed away. Alex just so happens to be the bad boy in town, at least a long time ago he was. Then BAM Brooke almost kills Alex for breaking into her store and it's a super cute love story that is steamy, adorable and has the best ending.
I really enjoyed this book, the characters are amazing and I LOVE them together. They are so cute how they get together and when a huge misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart I wanted nothing more than for things to work out for them
These were super cute characters that pretty much had me thinking 4.5 from the start. The steamy scenes were good and the relationship was adorable. This is a great for the holidays or anytime. Totally recommend :)
This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
This was a really cute holiday reads. Brooke is a shop owner starting out on her own making and selling unique gifts. I kind of wanted one of her necklaces they sound really cute. Alex is back in town to pay his respect to his grandmother now that his grandfather has passed away. Alex just so happens to be the bad boy in town, at least a long time ago he was. Then BAM Brooke almost kills Alex for breaking into her store and it's a super cute love story that is steamy, adorable and has the best ending.
I really enjoyed this book, the characters are amazing and I LOVE them together. They are so cute how they get together and when a huge misunderstanding threatens to tear them apart I wanted nothing more than for things to work out for them
These were super cute characters that pretty much had me thinking 4.5 from the start. The steamy scenes were good and the relationship was adorable. This is a great for the holidays or anytime. Totally recommend :)
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This review was originally posted on Because reading is better than real life
October 18, 2014
More reviews at http://losttobooks.blogspot.com
I've downloaded a lot of Christmas reads recently, but have been putting off reading them until at least November as I hate to think about the holiday season before. However, I needed a short, easy romance to brighten my day and this seemed like the perfect one.
Blame it on the Mistletoe was a lighthearted, fluffy read. It has a cute romance and that Christmassy feeling that leaves you with a smile on your face. I liked the characters; Alex was surprisingly sensitive for the reformed-bad-boy, and I liked how he didn't give up. Of course, it was predictable that his secrets were going to come out at some point and I didn't really like how that came about, but I'm glad there was a small amount of tension in the relationship. Similarly, I thought Brooke was a strong character in her own way. She was determined to succeed and make a better life for herself.
I did feel as I was reading that the author could have done more with both characters' back stories. She set up this intriguing premise that Alex was ex-military and had a hard life when a child, and that Brooke was in a abusive relationship, however I never felt they were fully developed. There was so much more that could have been done with it and I think it would have made me like and connect with the characters more. I also wanted a bit more of a spark between the characters. Things got better as they progressed, but it still felt a little tame like the characters weren't fully committing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It's a cute, festive read that has a sweet romance.
I've downloaded a lot of Christmas reads recently, but have been putting off reading them until at least November as I hate to think about the holiday season before. However, I needed a short, easy romance to brighten my day and this seemed like the perfect one.
Blame it on the Mistletoe was a lighthearted, fluffy read. It has a cute romance and that Christmassy feeling that leaves you with a smile on your face. I liked the characters; Alex was surprisingly sensitive for the reformed-bad-boy, and I liked how he didn't give up. Of course, it was predictable that his secrets were going to come out at some point and I didn't really like how that came about, but I'm glad there was a small amount of tension in the relationship. Similarly, I thought Brooke was a strong character in her own way. She was determined to succeed and make a better life for herself.
I did feel as I was reading that the author could have done more with both characters' back stories. She set up this intriguing premise that Alex was ex-military and had a hard life when a child, and that Brooke was in a abusive relationship, however I never felt they were fully developed. There was so much more that could have been done with it and I think it would have made me like and connect with the characters more. I also wanted a bit more of a spark between the characters. Things got better as they progressed, but it still felt a little tame like the characters weren't fully committing.
Overall, I enjoyed this book. It's a cute, festive read that has a sweet romance.
September 25, 2014
Blame It On The Mistletoe by Nicole Michaels was a quick fun holiday read that has me in the mood for the magical holiday.
The story pacing was steady and I never lost interest in Brooke and Alex's story. Nicole has included misunderstanding, doubts and fears into this story of two people who are beginning to understand themselves and their pasts to move forward. There were some secondary characters that I hope Nicole will also be writing about as I would love to get to know them better.
Brooke is starting over in her home town after breaking up with her boyfriend when the relationship turned abusive. She has opened her own business in an empty store on Main Street and is trying to make a go of it. Her store is filled with old things that she refurbishes into new uses as well as selling the jewelry that she loves to make.
Alex was Brooke's brother's, Ryan, best friend in school. Alex was the town resident "bad boy" and a player all through school. His life growing up wasn't easy with an alcoholic mother and his father being killed while in service. He's home to take care of some family business and is quite surprised when he meets Brooke again. Their first meeting was quite entertaining.
It's a lovely holiday read and I will be looking forward to more books by Nicole Michaels.
I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley and St Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.
The story pacing was steady and I never lost interest in Brooke and Alex's story. Nicole has included misunderstanding, doubts and fears into this story of two people who are beginning to understand themselves and their pasts to move forward. There were some secondary characters that I hope Nicole will also be writing about as I would love to get to know them better.
Brooke is starting over in her home town after breaking up with her boyfriend when the relationship turned abusive. She has opened her own business in an empty store on Main Street and is trying to make a go of it. Her store is filled with old things that she refurbishes into new uses as well as selling the jewelry that she loves to make.
Alex was Brooke's brother's, Ryan, best friend in school. Alex was the town resident "bad boy" and a player all through school. His life growing up wasn't easy with an alcoholic mother and his father being killed while in service. He's home to take care of some family business and is quite surprised when he meets Brooke again. Their first meeting was quite entertaining.
It's a lovely holiday read and I will be looking forward to more books by Nicole Michaels.
I was given an ARC of this book by NetGalley and St Martin's Press in exchange for an honest review.
October 14, 2014
Brooke Abbott has returned to her hometown in Missouri after a painful relationship that has left her wary and her brother very protective of her. She's opened a small arts studio, selling her own jewelry and handicraft as well as that of others, and she really needs this, her first Christmas season, to be a big success if her studio is to survive till spring.
When local bad boy/heartthrob (and secret crush) Alex Coleman returns to town unexpectedly, she's pretty sure it's bad news. Alex was always trouble. What she doesn't know is that Alex has returned to see his grandmother, settle his wealthy grandfather's estate, and make peace with his mother.
What Alex doesn't know is that his often cold, distant grandfather has left him his most treasured real estate holding other than the family house: 100 Main Street, the building that houses both Brooke's studio and her apartment.
I like both Alex and Brooke, although they do both follow the Rule of not sharing important information early that will come out later and make much more trouble then. They are both in their different ways damaged by past experiences, and reaching for healing and wholeness. They also both have both a sense of fun, and a sense of decency, so that you're rooting for them both all the way through.
A fun Christmas read.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher via NetGalley.
When local bad boy/heartthrob (and secret crush) Alex Coleman returns to town unexpectedly, she's pretty sure it's bad news. Alex was always trouble. What she doesn't know is that Alex has returned to see his grandmother, settle his wealthy grandfather's estate, and make peace with his mother.
What Alex doesn't know is that his often cold, distant grandfather has left him his most treasured real estate holding other than the family house: 100 Main Street, the building that houses both Brooke's studio and her apartment.
I like both Alex and Brooke, although they do both follow the Rule of not sharing important information early that will come out later and make much more trouble then. They are both in their different ways damaged by past experiences, and reaching for healing and wholeness. They also both have both a sense of fun, and a sense of decency, so that you're rooting for them both all the way through.
A fun Christmas read.
I received a free electronic galley from the publisher via NetGalley.
October 7, 2014
What a sweet, tender, and romantic holiday read! I really enjoyed Brooke and Alex's love story. Alex was Brooke's brother's best friend in high school, but they haven't seen each other since graduation. Many years and lots of sadness and difficulty along the way later, Brooke mistakes Alex for a burglar when he's suddenly back in town for a few days. A few sparks turn into a whole lot more between these two. But Alex's temporary status and family revelations, combined with Brooke's business stress and heartbreaking past, equal a road the two must traverse together if there's going to be any hope of them turning their temporary situation into something permanent.
I loved getting to know Brooke and Alex. I found learning about their past and discovering their present to be really well paced. I was never bored and flew through the pages. The way the characters were developed made them so endearing. I couldn't stop rooting for them. Their chemistry, connection, and camaraderie were delightful. Plus, there were other layers that gave this story such a well-rounded feeling, tying in family and friends, past and present, even resolving seemingly unrelated issues. This was just a great story all around. I also fell in love with the town of Preston, and wouldn't mind a story about Brooke's brother, Ryan. This was a wonderful holiday read!
I loved getting to know Brooke and Alex. I found learning about their past and discovering their present to be really well paced. I was never bored and flew through the pages. The way the characters were developed made them so endearing. I couldn't stop rooting for them. Their chemistry, connection, and camaraderie were delightful. Plus, there were other layers that gave this story such a well-rounded feeling, tying in family and friends, past and present, even resolving seemingly unrelated issues. This was just a great story all around. I also fell in love with the town of Preston, and wouldn't mind a story about Brooke's brother, Ryan. This was a wonderful holiday read!
November 6, 2014
Summary: Brooke Abbott has to increase business or her small-town Missouri boutique Sweet Opal Studios will go under. She needs a miracle.
She has been staying in the apartment above the store to save money, without informing the landlord. One day finds a burglar lurking in the back room of her shop. She discovers that it is not a burglar but the landlord’s grandson, Alex Coleman, who is back for a visit and is planning to stay in the apartment.
Alex is Brooke’s brother Ryan’s best friend, and they are friends from childhood. He allows her to stay there and promises not to tell his grandmother about it.
This book by Nicole Michaels is about how they fall in love despite the troubles in their past and the misunderstandings in their present.
My thoughts: This is a quick read. It is cute, funny and light.
The characters are well developed. There is good chemistry between Brooke and Alex.
As usual in such books, there is worry and misunderstanding because of miscommunication, which predictably clears up in the end.
Overall, this is a good book to relax with during the holidays.
Note: The publishers, St. Martin’s Press, gave this book to me in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
All my reviews are at My Two Pennies' Worth
She has been staying in the apartment above the store to save money, without informing the landlord. One day finds a burglar lurking in the back room of her shop. She discovers that it is not a burglar but the landlord’s grandson, Alex Coleman, who is back for a visit and is planning to stay in the apartment.
Alex is Brooke’s brother Ryan’s best friend, and they are friends from childhood. He allows her to stay there and promises not to tell his grandmother about it.
This book by Nicole Michaels is about how they fall in love despite the troubles in their past and the misunderstandings in their present.
My thoughts: This is a quick read. It is cute, funny and light.
The characters are well developed. There is good chemistry between Brooke and Alex.
As usual in such books, there is worry and misunderstanding because of miscommunication, which predictably clears up in the end.
Overall, this is a good book to relax with during the holidays.
Note: The publishers, St. Martin’s Press, gave this book to me in exchange for an honest review. I thank them for that.
All my reviews are at My Two Pennies' Worth
November 13, 2014
Brooke Abbott, jewelry maker, lived above her shop. One night she heard thumps upstairs and called her brother, the cop, to check it out. It turns out to be her brother's high school best friend, Alex Coleman, returned to town. Alex's grandmother owns the building and told him he could stay in the upstairs apartment without knowing that Brooke was secretly living there to save money. Imagine Brooke's surprise when she saw her high school crush standing in her shop looking better than he did way back when. She's been through an emotional and a potentially physically abusive relationship with an ex and she's ready to move on. Who better than an old high school crush, ex-Army Ranger, gorgeous and sexy Alex Coleman.
I love Christmas romances. The attraction between them is instant and explosive. Leave it to the over protective brother to throw cold water over them by forbidding Alex to date his sister but that didn't last long. This is an sexy, sweet but HOT Christmas romance that was full of flirtation, misunderstandings, love, and righting wrongs of the past. It was also about family. The family that sticks by you through anything and the family that doesn't. I love the smooth writing style of Nicole Michaels and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
I love Christmas romances. The attraction between them is instant and explosive. Leave it to the over protective brother to throw cold water over them by forbidding Alex to date his sister but that didn't last long. This is an sexy, sweet but HOT Christmas romance that was full of flirtation, misunderstandings, love, and righting wrongs of the past. It was also about family. The family that sticks by you through anything and the family that doesn't. I love the smooth writing style of Nicole Michaels and I look forward to reading more from her in the future.
Received a copy in exchange for an honest review.
October 15, 2014
Great Christmas story... short, sweet, heartfelt and schmexy! I don't think they can really blame it on the mistletoe but hey, nice try!
Loved Brooke and Alex... He was the older brother's best friend she had a crush on in High School. She was the little sister of his best friend... so, off limits right?? Well, things are different now that everyone is all grown up!
Brooke just came out of an abusive relationship and is trying to get her life back on track by starting her own business. Alex has come back into town after being away for a long time to quickly take care of family business. He gets a few surprises while he is there... and finds himself drawn to the now all grown up and beautiful Brooke. Alex is now an older, rugged bearded man... not quite the same as her teenage crush but he still catches Brooke's eye and eventually her heart.
Big brother is still a little over protective... but, with good reason. He loves his baby sister... and, only wants her to be happy.
These types of stories never get old... young crushes that eventually grow into long lasting friendships and eventually love. Love it every time...
Great addition to the Christmas pile...
ARC was provided by St. Martin's Press
www.ktbookreviews.com
Loved Brooke and Alex... He was the older brother's best friend she had a crush on in High School. She was the little sister of his best friend... so, off limits right?? Well, things are different now that everyone is all grown up!
Brooke just came out of an abusive relationship and is trying to get her life back on track by starting her own business. Alex has come back into town after being away for a long time to quickly take care of family business. He gets a few surprises while he is there... and finds himself drawn to the now all grown up and beautiful Brooke. Alex is now an older, rugged bearded man... not quite the same as her teenage crush but he still catches Brooke's eye and eventually her heart.
Big brother is still a little over protective... but, with good reason. He loves his baby sister... and, only wants her to be happy.
These types of stories never get old... young crushes that eventually grow into long lasting friendships and eventually love. Love it every time...
Great addition to the Christmas pile...
ARC was provided by St. Martin's Press
www.ktbookreviews.com
October 10, 2014
I received this book as an ARC for an honest review. This book will help you remember why you fell in love in the first place. Brooke Abbott met Alex Coleman she was just a young girl who did not realize the difference between love and infatuation. Now both are all grown up and have been through quite a lot in their lives that have made them incredibly different people than they were all those years ago. When Alex first comes to the apartment above the shop that Brooke is currently renting from his grandmother he did not realize that she was living there as well. With somethings in her past her first meeting with Alex scares her and has her calling her brother Ryan (the town cop) for help. The problem with this is in their youth Ryan and Alex were the local troublemakers. This story has its ups and downs but at the heart of it it shows that family no-matter where they start out at their core really do love you for who you are and what you have become. Also if you look for something special in a person you just might find the greatest love you can be worthy of. I would recommend it
April 6, 2016
As Seen On The Quiet Concert
I adored this wintry novella! Blame it on the Mistletoe had just the right amount of romance, character development and engaging plot line.
Brooke and Alex had fantastic chemistry that complimented their different pasts. In such a shorter story I was not expecting the character development to be as expansive as it is. Both Brooke and Alex had different but life shaping/changing pasts that the readers slowly learns about throughout. This made the characters more real and brought me into the story. The secondary relationship were also a strong point in the book. The steamier scenes kept the pages turning and beautifully balanced out the heavier tones.
Aside from the character development, the plot line is engaging, it does take a backseat to the romance and characters. It was cute, a bit cliche and predictable but incredibly enjoyable. If you want to curl up with a warm drink ( or a tasty glass of win) and a blanket, I highly recommend this steamy read.
I adored this wintry novella! Blame it on the Mistletoe had just the right amount of romance, character development and engaging plot line.
Brooke and Alex had fantastic chemistry that complimented their different pasts. In such a shorter story I was not expecting the character development to be as expansive as it is. Both Brooke and Alex had different but life shaping/changing pasts that the readers slowly learns about throughout. This made the characters more real and brought me into the story. The secondary relationship were also a strong point in the book. The steamier scenes kept the pages turning and beautifully balanced out the heavier tones.
Aside from the character development, the plot line is engaging, it does take a backseat to the romance and characters. It was cute, a bit cliche and predictable but incredibly enjoyable. If you want to curl up with a warm drink ( or a tasty glass of win) and a blanket, I highly recommend this steamy read.
November 16, 2014
I think it is probably because of the novella-length ... but I felt that this story never reached its full potentials.
I would love to see more depth exploration of Brooke, coming as someone who stepped out from an abusive relationship to get back on her own two feet. I would love a deeper exploration of Alex Coleman and the complicated relationship that he had with his mother too (who used to be an alcoholic).
Then the whole idea of Alex keeping his status as the owner's of the building where Brooke set her shop a secret was a bit of too ... uhm ... easy of a conflict, I guess. Even for a novella. Of course Brooke would find out and of course she would be upset. The resolution felt a bit rushed too.
However, it did introduce me to the beginning of what seems to be a new series located in a small town of Preston, Missouri. I see the first novel will be released next year. I think I'll keep my eyes on it.
I would love to see more depth exploration of Brooke, coming as someone who stepped out from an abusive relationship to get back on her own two feet. I would love a deeper exploration of Alex Coleman and the complicated relationship that he had with his mother too (who used to be an alcoholic).
Then the whole idea of Alex keeping his status as the owner's of the building where Brooke set her shop a secret was a bit of too ... uhm ... easy of a conflict, I guess. Even for a novella. Of course Brooke would find out and of course she would be upset. The resolution felt a bit rushed too.
However, it did introduce me to the beginning of what seems to be a new series located in a small town of Preston, Missouri. I see the first novel will be released next year. I think I'll keep my eyes on it.
January 4, 2015
Overall I enjoyed this book but not enough to want to read it again. There's something about the female main character that just does not sit right with me. Brooke, a small-town boutique owner, tries to rebuild her life after an ex puts her through the ringer. Her brother, the local sheriff tries to give her space, but is protective and there when she needs him. One night, Brooke thinks she hears a burglar when it turns out, it is Alex Coleman, her brother's childhood best friend and new landlord to the building she rents. She has no clue he is the landlord, just that she still pines for him after all these years.
It is a cute story and Nicole Michaels does a nice job of getting these childhood friends together. I just do not see Brooke as independent or strong as the author wants to believe she is. I do love the scenes with her brother because he totally is the protective and slightly flawed too.
It is a cute story and Nicole Michaels does a nice job of getting these childhood friends together. I just do not see Brooke as independent or strong as the author wants to believe she is. I do love the scenes with her brother because he totally is the protective and slightly flawed too.
December 23, 2015
I loved this book. I got frustrated a few times with it. But I couldn't put it down
*Spoiler Alert*
Alex come's back to Preston due to something about his Grandfather. Brooke moved back to Preston to get away from an abusive relationship. She started her own company called Sweet Opal Studios where she makes her own jewelry and features other artist. Brooke hears something in the apartment upstairs. She calls her brother Ryan for help while she has the man cornered. Lone behold it's Alex Ryan's best friend since childhood. Alex asked Brooke out on a date
Ryan warns Alex to stay away from his sister because of what happened to her before. Alex stood Brooke up but does everything he can to make it up to her. Alex finds out something in his uncle's will but he's having a hard time trying to tell Brooke. Brooke finds out but doesn't give Alex a chance to explain. Can they make it? You have to read to find out!
*Spoiler Alert*
Alex come's back to Preston due to something about his Grandfather. Brooke moved back to Preston to get away from an abusive relationship. She started her own company called Sweet Opal Studios where she makes her own jewelry and features other artist. Brooke hears something in the apartment upstairs. She calls her brother Ryan for help while she has the man cornered. Lone behold it's Alex Ryan's best friend since childhood. Alex asked Brooke out on a date
Ryan warns Alex to stay away from his sister because of what happened to her before. Alex stood Brooke up but does everything he can to make it up to her. Alex finds out something in his uncle's will but he's having a hard time trying to tell Brooke. Brooke finds out but doesn't give Alex a chance to explain. Can they make it? You have to read to find out!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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