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Home to Foxtail #2
Her Pretend Holiday Beau
Will a fake arrangement
prove they’re a perfect match?
Faced with planning the town’s Christmas nativity event, veterinarian Mick Larson turns to his childhood friend for some much-needed help. But florist Sadie Dalton requires something in a wedding date. It’s the perfect solution to avoid her now-engaged ex and some well-meaning matchmakers. That is, until a kiss under some mistletoe results in a giant misunderstanding. Now they must pretend to be a real couple through the holidays. But as their friendship slowly blossoms into something more, can they keep up the charade…when they start believing it themselves?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Home to Foxtail
Book 1: Mountain Homecoming
Book 2: Her Pretend Holiday Beau
prove they’re a perfect match?
Faced with planning the town’s Christmas nativity event, veterinarian Mick Larson turns to his childhood friend for some much-needed help. But florist Sadie Dalton requires something in a wedding date. It’s the perfect solution to avoid her now-engaged ex and some well-meaning matchmakers. That is, until a kiss under some mistletoe results in a giant misunderstanding. Now they must pretend to be a real couple through the holidays. But as their friendship slowly blossoms into something more, can they keep up the charade…when they start believing it themselves?
From Love Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Home to Foxtail
Book 1: Mountain Homecoming
Book 2: Her Pretend Holiday Beau
208 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published October 1, 2025
7 people are currently reading
2781 people want to read
About the author
Susanne Dietze
57 books724 followersSusanne Dietze began writing love stories in high school, casting her friends in the starring roles. Today, she's an award-winning, RITA®-nominated author who's seen her work on the Publisher's Weekly and ECPA Bestseller Lists for Inspirational Fiction. Married to a pastor and the mom of two, Susanne lives in California and loves fancy-schmancy tea parties, the beach, and curling up on the couch with a costume drama. You can visit her on her website, www.susannedietze.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
November 7, 2025
This was a really nice Christmas story.
October 6, 2025
I’m absolutely chuffed to return to Foxtail Farm for the second book in this series by Susanne Dietze. Her Pretend Holiday Beau is a charming friends-to-love story.
Veterinarian Mick Larson and florist Sadie Dalton have been best friends forever. They know each other up, down, and sideways. Everyone thinks they’d be a perfect match…everyone but themselves. Both have some long-held emotional burdens weighing them down and holding them back. With the Lord’s help, some fake dating, and a little holiday season cheer, could things change?
I so loved this story. The way Mick and Sadie want to serve people and animals alike just adds to their love story. Secondary characters Dutch and Beatie are a hoot, too. Come find community, kindness, and love in Foxtail!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinion is entirely my own.
Veterinarian Mick Larson and florist Sadie Dalton have been best friends forever. They know each other up, down, and sideways. Everyone thinks they’d be a perfect match…everyone but themselves. Both have some long-held emotional burdens weighing them down and holding them back. With the Lord’s help, some fake dating, and a little holiday season cheer, could things change?
I so loved this story. The way Mick and Sadie want to serve people and animals alike just adds to their love story. Secondary characters Dutch and Beatie are a hoot, too. Come find community, kindness, and love in Foxtail!
My thanks for the complimentary copy of this book. My opinion is entirely my own.
October 25, 2025
There is nothing like a fake boyfriend story. Add on a holiday or two, some animals, and a matchmaking couple, and you have romance gold. And, oh, how this story touched my heart in so many ways.
Sadie is kindhearted and helpful. She's especially good at recognizing the God given gifts that someone possesses. Just not her own. Especially when it comes to her best friend, Mick. Sadie is the perfect mix of introvert and extrovert. She enjoys being behind the scenes but steps to the forefront when needed. Mick is a gentle veterinarian whose heart opens most easily to animals. He's let his childhood hurts litter the landscape of his adult life which keeps him from truly loving another person. His desire to expand the shelter attached to the clinic where he is part owner is one of the reasons he finds himself fake dating Sadie. But he continually guards his feelings by reminding himself that it's only pretend.
I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Dutch and Beatie, the couple who cannot stop pairing up Mick and Sadie. Sadie’s family tends to be louder and more vocal, which often leaves her in the background, yet they listen when it truly matters. There are so many people to love in this story that the entire small-town romance comes together beautifully.
This novel offers reminders that God made each of us unique, the power of prayer, and that vulnerability is not a bad thing. If you want to begin your holiday reading with a heartwarming and meaningful tale, look no further than Her Pretend Holiday Beau.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
Sadie is kindhearted and helpful. She's especially good at recognizing the God given gifts that someone possesses. Just not her own. Especially when it comes to her best friend, Mick. Sadie is the perfect mix of introvert and extrovert. She enjoys being behind the scenes but steps to the forefront when needed. Mick is a gentle veterinarian whose heart opens most easily to animals. He's let his childhood hurts litter the landscape of his adult life which keeps him from truly loving another person. His desire to expand the shelter attached to the clinic where he is part owner is one of the reasons he finds himself fake dating Sadie. But he continually guards his feelings by reminding himself that it's only pretend.
I enjoyed the secondary characters, especially Dutch and Beatie, the couple who cannot stop pairing up Mick and Sadie. Sadie’s family tends to be louder and more vocal, which often leaves her in the background, yet they listen when it truly matters. There are so many people to love in this story that the entire small-town romance comes together beautifully.
This novel offers reminders that God made each of us unique, the power of prayer, and that vulnerability is not a bad thing. If you want to begin your holiday reading with a heartwarming and meaningful tale, look no further than Her Pretend Holiday Beau.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions are my own.
October 17, 2025
It was fun returning to Foxtail Farm during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holidays. Sadie Dalton, who inherited Foxtail Farm with her cousin and sisters, is best friends with Mick the veterinarian. There are matchmakers around who would like them to become more than friends. Fearing that one of their elderly friends has a health problem and not wanting to disappoint her, they make a pact to fake date until the New Year. Things get complicated when their true feelings emerge. Shades of a Hallmark moment!
Ms. Dietze pens a cozy story around Christmas events that warm the heart. The main one is a living nativity that Sadie has agreed to help Mick organize. A few problems crop up, including what they each see for their future occupations. Sadie and Mick are determined to bring the message of Christ to the community. And in the process, they are more open to let God lead them.
This was a great story that captured my heart. I look forward to more from Foxtail Farm.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Love Inspired on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
Ms. Dietze pens a cozy story around Christmas events that warm the heart. The main one is a living nativity that Sadie has agreed to help Mick organize. A few problems crop up, including what they each see for their future occupations. Sadie and Mick are determined to bring the message of Christ to the community. And in the process, they are more open to let God lead them.
This was a great story that captured my heart. I look forward to more from Foxtail Farm.
*A complimentary copy of this book was provided by Love Inspired on behalf of the author. I was not required to post a favorable review. All opinions are mine alone.*
October 28, 2025
Have you ever been in a friend relationship that turned into more? Her Pretend Holiday Beau by Susanne Dietz features this fun trope.
Mick Larson and Sadie Dalton have been friends for years. Mick is the town veterinarian. Sadie is a florist. This year, Mick asks for Sadie's help in planning a town Christmas nativity event. She agrees--but she also needs a date for a wedding in return.
Mick agrees to be Sadie's Plus-One at a wedding where she will be seeing her ex-boyfriend who is engaged to someone else. That day, they are caught under some mistletoe and well-meaning matchmakers think they are a couple. Mick and Sadie agree to pretend to be a couple through the holidays to appease the matchmakers.
Her Pretend Holiday Beau is a quick read full of fun holiday events and family gatherings that Mick and Sadie attend. I enjoyed seeing the couple grow in who they were as individuals and as a couple. As the book went along, their communication got better too and I liked that. There is also a Christian spiritual theme woven throughout the book. I often pick up the Love Inspired books when I want a quick read with a HEA ending.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through JustRead Tours. All opinions are my own.
Mick Larson and Sadie Dalton have been friends for years. Mick is the town veterinarian. Sadie is a florist. This year, Mick asks for Sadie's help in planning a town Christmas nativity event. She agrees--but she also needs a date for a wedding in return.
Mick agrees to be Sadie's Plus-One at a wedding where she will be seeing her ex-boyfriend who is engaged to someone else. That day, they are caught under some mistletoe and well-meaning matchmakers think they are a couple. Mick and Sadie agree to pretend to be a couple through the holidays to appease the matchmakers.
Her Pretend Holiday Beau is a quick read full of fun holiday events and family gatherings that Mick and Sadie attend. I enjoyed seeing the couple grow in who they were as individuals and as a couple. As the book went along, their communication got better too and I liked that. There is also a Christian spiritual theme woven throughout the book. I often pick up the Love Inspired books when I want a quick read with a HEA ending.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher through JustRead Tours. All opinions are my own.
October 3, 2025
I have read several books by this author and I have loved them all so I have her on my go-to author list. I am also a big fan of Christmas books. This book has so many different family dynamics. It also includes a live nativity which I love reading about. It takes place on a family farm which I love. It made me want to go to one. Another event in the book I really wanted to attend was the event they had for the employees of the farm. The food sounded so good that it made me hungry and the fire pit sounded cozy on a cold night. And the story had the cutest sounding mini horse in it. I loved this book so much and definitely recommend it.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.
I received a complimentary copy from the author. The opinions in this review are my own.
October 4, 2025
Great Christmas read!
Sadie and Mick are best friends and work well together. They have a compassionate heart for people and animals. Everyone thinks they should be together….except they can’t see past their fear of losing their friendship. They both assume the other’s feelings and refuse to address their own changing affections.
We get humor and heartbreak woven together this Christmas; both of them must learn to see themselves as someone that is known, seen, and loved. It was sad to watch how a child’s tender heart can be broken by a misunderstood conversation or action. They were able to move forward, heal, and grown closer with Christ’s help. There is a good emphasis on family and the true meaning of Christmas throughout the plot.
I enjoyed the novel and look forward to seeing more of the series. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Sadie and Mick are best friends and work well together. They have a compassionate heart for people and animals. Everyone thinks they should be together….except they can’t see past their fear of losing their friendship. They both assume the other’s feelings and refuse to address their own changing affections.
We get humor and heartbreak woven together this Christmas; both of them must learn to see themselves as someone that is known, seen, and loved. It was sad to watch how a child’s tender heart can be broken by a misunderstood conversation or action. They were able to move forward, heal, and grown closer with Christ’s help. There is a good emphasis on family and the true meaning of Christmas throughout the plot.
I enjoyed the novel and look forward to seeing more of the series. I received a complimentary copy from the author and these are my voluntary and honest opinions. I was not required to leave a positive review.
Read
October 29, 2025✨ review ✨
who doesn’t love fake dating in a holiday romance? 😂
florist sadie dalton decides to bring veterinarian mick larson, a good friend, as her date to a wedding. of course, as it usually happens, they get caught under the mistletoe, which leads to them playing up their fake romance a little longer—and finding out that maybe, it shouldn’t be so fake after all.
her pretend holiday beau is a sweet small-town romance with plenty of holiday charm. the third-act conflict does play out a little confusingly, but overall, it hits the right notes as it blends the friends-to-more and faking-dating tropes with christmas cheer and heartfelt family moments.
definitely a heartwarming pick for anyone looking for a quick contemporary holiday romance.
✨ considerations:
—language: none
—spice: kisses only
—faith: mentions of God, prayer, church, and the nativity
—content: mentions of loss of a parent and parental abandonment
(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)
who doesn’t love fake dating in a holiday romance? 😂
florist sadie dalton decides to bring veterinarian mick larson, a good friend, as her date to a wedding. of course, as it usually happens, they get caught under the mistletoe, which leads to them playing up their fake romance a little longer—and finding out that maybe, it shouldn’t be so fake after all.
her pretend holiday beau is a sweet small-town romance with plenty of holiday charm. the third-act conflict does play out a little confusingly, but overall, it hits the right notes as it blends the friends-to-more and faking-dating tropes with christmas cheer and heartfelt family moments.
definitely a heartwarming pick for anyone looking for a quick contemporary holiday romance.
✨ considerations:
—language: none
—spice: kisses only
—faith: mentions of God, prayer, church, and the nativity
—content: mentions of loss of a parent and parental abandonment
(i received a complimentary copy from the author and/or publisher. i was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions i have expressed are my own.)
October 18, 2025
Her Pretend Holiday Beau is a heartwarming, romantic friends to love inspirational book by Suzanne Dietz. This is the second book in the Home to Foxtail series, but I loved it even though I didn’t read the first one. Jump right in here with me!
Through no fault of their own, the main characters Sadie and Mick are thrown into a fake dating fiasco when Sadie needs a plus one to a friend’s wedding. Sadie’s friends get the wrong idea when she says her date will be a surprise. She’s actually inviting her best friend, Mick. Things escalate at this Christmas season wedding, and they’re caught under the mistletoe. After the kiss they share, no one will believe that they’re still just friends. Rather than disappoint a sweet older couple, they decide that they will “date” throughout December.
I completely adored Sadie and Mick. They’ve known each other for so long that they are perfect together. It was entertaining to follow them as they went on many December dates. I loved how the two were always ready to help each other. It didn’t matter if it were a small task like scooping out pumpkins or a big one like putting on a live nativity production. Whether they realized it or not, that’s what love does!
However, they both had emotional burdens that they’d carried for a long time, so when their feelings began to change, all of the doubts about their worth got in the way. They do realize that their worth is in God alone, and He is the only one who can provide us with unconditional love. It can be easy to know that in your head but still have those doubts in your heart. There are definitely crying moments in this book, and I shed more than a few tears!
The wonderful characters, cozy setting, holiday season, romantic tropes, emotional moments, and inspirational themes make Her Pretend Holiday Beau a must read! I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Through no fault of their own, the main characters Sadie and Mick are thrown into a fake dating fiasco when Sadie needs a plus one to a friend’s wedding. Sadie’s friends get the wrong idea when she says her date will be a surprise. She’s actually inviting her best friend, Mick. Things escalate at this Christmas season wedding, and they’re caught under the mistletoe. After the kiss they share, no one will believe that they’re still just friends. Rather than disappoint a sweet older couple, they decide that they will “date” throughout December.
I completely adored Sadie and Mick. They’ve known each other for so long that they are perfect together. It was entertaining to follow them as they went on many December dates. I loved how the two were always ready to help each other. It didn’t matter if it were a small task like scooping out pumpkins or a big one like putting on a live nativity production. Whether they realized it or not, that’s what love does!
However, they both had emotional burdens that they’d carried for a long time, so when their feelings began to change, all of the doubts about their worth got in the way. They do realize that their worth is in God alone, and He is the only one who can provide us with unconditional love. It can be easy to know that in your head but still have those doubts in your heart. There are definitely crying moments in this book, and I shed more than a few tears!
The wonderful characters, cozy setting, holiday season, romantic tropes, emotional moments, and inspirational themes make Her Pretend Holiday Beau a must read! I highly recommend it!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
December 11, 2025
This was a great Friends to lovers story! And “fake” dating 😉 I loved this story! I loved both main characters, Mick and Sadie. They both have similar pasts with feeling rejected. I loved that they were working on a live nativity program together and really opened up to one another. Loved the ending! Good Christian content. Definitely recommend!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
October 28, 2025
I loved this book! The rich details from the scrumptious dishes and settings to the intricate flower arrangements and the wonderful animals! It was engaging and comfy! The perfect Christmas read. You will love it!
October 12, 2025
A heartwarming holiday season romance filled with friendship, family, past misunderstandings, and dreams for a bright future . . .
Sadie Dalton, a talented florist who works on her family's Foxtail Farm, is still reeling from the unexpected break-up of her former relationship. She's only living on the farm and working there because of the strict requirements her deceased father placed on all of his offspring in his will.
Mick Larson, the town's veterinarian and Sadie's longtime best friend, is an admired member of the community because of his excellent skills in animal care. He is also an integral part of facilitating the adoption of all sorts of animals from the area's animal shelter into loving forever homes.
Mick has lived with an unfathomable burden from his childhood. It has affected how he relates to his extended family who raised him, and it has kept him from moving forward in the romance area of his life.
When Sadie comes up with a 'pretend romance' scheme to help them move through the holiday season smoothly, she gets more trouble than she bargained for from a benevolent senior couple who want to see a permanent match between Sadie and Mick. The matchmakers' antics brought some wit and levity to the story.
Another unique element of the story is the delightful group of animals brought into the storyline to participate in the living Nativity event. Animals that became loyal assistance animals for townspeople enriched the story, too. Gidget the miniature horse became a favorite of mine because of her unique talents and personality.
This book is completely clean in language and content and includes a strong faith thread making it an enjoyable and touching read for fans of the inspirational contemporary romance genre.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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Sadie Dalton, a talented florist who works on her family's Foxtail Farm, is still reeling from the unexpected break-up of her former relationship. She's only living on the farm and working there because of the strict requirements her deceased father placed on all of his offspring in his will.
Mick Larson, the town's veterinarian and Sadie's longtime best friend, is an admired member of the community because of his excellent skills in animal care. He is also an integral part of facilitating the adoption of all sorts of animals from the area's animal shelter into loving forever homes.
Mick has lived with an unfathomable burden from his childhood. It has affected how he relates to his extended family who raised him, and it has kept him from moving forward in the romance area of his life.
When Sadie comes up with a 'pretend romance' scheme to help them move through the holiday season smoothly, she gets more trouble than she bargained for from a benevolent senior couple who want to see a permanent match between Sadie and Mick. The matchmakers' antics brought some wit and levity to the story.
Another unique element of the story is the delightful group of animals brought into the storyline to participate in the living Nativity event. Animals that became loyal assistance animals for townspeople enriched the story, too. Gidget the miniature horse became a favorite of mine because of her unique talents and personality.
This book is completely clean in language and content and includes a strong faith thread making it an enjoyable and touching read for fans of the inspirational contemporary romance genre.
I received a copy of this book from the author through JustRead Publicity Tours. All of my thoughts and opinions shared here are solely my own.
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Read
October 1, 2025Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Home to Foxtail (Book #2)
Miniseries
Home to Foxtail (Book #2)
Read
October 1, 2025Inspirational Romance, Contemporary Romance, Holiday Romance, Holiday, Wholesome Romance
Miniseries
Home to Foxtail (Book #2)
Miniseries
Home to Foxtail (Book #2)
November 5, 2025
Readers will love returning to Foxtail Farm in Suzanne Dietz story, Her Pretend Holiday Beau. Childhood friends to more, along with fake dating, this is a sweet and fun story that gives off plenty of Hallmark movie vibes. Readers will thoroughly enjoy this story about friendship, helping others, hope and forgiveness. Another delightful story from this beloved author.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
October 28, 2025
I'm sorry, but I struggled to finish this book. The beginning was loaded with so many names it was hard to keep track. Almost halfway through, and I still felt like the story was going nowhere.
October 17, 2025
Her Pretend Holiday Beau (Home to Foxtail Book 2)
Susanne Dietze
Will a fake arrangement
prove they’re a perfect match?
Faced with planning the town’s Christmas nativity event, veterinarian Mick Larson turns to his childhood friend for some much-needed help. But florist Sadie Dalton requires something in return: a wedding date. It’s the perfect solution to avoid her now-engaged ex and some well-meaning matchmakers. That is, until a kiss under some mistletoe results in a giant misunderstanding. Now they must pretend to be a real couple through the holidays. But as their friendship slowly blossoms into something more, can they keep up the charade…when they start believing it themselves?
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Home to Foxtail
Book 1: Mountain Homecoming
Book 2: Her Pretend Holiday Beau
Friends to more as well as second chances, this charming Christmas story will hold your attention from the first page. (It is the second story in the Home to Foxtail series but can be read as a standalone. However I highly encourage reading book 1, Mountain Homecoming because it is also delightful)
Dietze characters are engaging and well developed. You’ll fall in love with them. I definitely would love to go to Foxtail for Christmas. And I loved how the town turned out to help Sadie and Mick accomplish what seemed almost impossible. The secondary characters were just as wonderful. I hope we see more of them as well!
We often carry baggage in the form of wounds into our relationships. With the help of God and the magic of Christmas can healing happen for these two? I highly recommend Her Pretend Holiday Beau!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
Susanne Dietze
Will a fake arrangement
prove they’re a perfect match?
Faced with planning the town’s Christmas nativity event, veterinarian Mick Larson turns to his childhood friend for some much-needed help. But florist Sadie Dalton requires something in return: a wedding date. It’s the perfect solution to avoid her now-engaged ex and some well-meaning matchmakers. That is, until a kiss under some mistletoe results in a giant misunderstanding. Now they must pretend to be a real couple through the holidays. But as their friendship slowly blossoms into something more, can they keep up the charade…when they start believing it themselves?
From Love Inspired: Uplifting stories of faith, forgiveness and hope.
Home to Foxtail
Book 1: Mountain Homecoming
Book 2: Her Pretend Holiday Beau
Friends to more as well as second chances, this charming Christmas story will hold your attention from the first page. (It is the second story in the Home to Foxtail series but can be read as a standalone. However I highly encourage reading book 1, Mountain Homecoming because it is also delightful)
Dietze characters are engaging and well developed. You’ll fall in love with them. I definitely would love to go to Foxtail for Christmas. And I loved how the town turned out to help Sadie and Mick accomplish what seemed almost impossible. The secondary characters were just as wonderful. I hope we see more of them as well!
We often carry baggage in the form of wounds into our relationships. With the help of God and the magic of Christmas can healing happen for these two? I highly recommend Her Pretend Holiday Beau!
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.
October 9, 2025
This wonderful Christmas romance will make you want to go out and volunteer. It was truly an inspirational story.
Mick is the local veterinarian who has never seen an animal he did not want to rescue. He has a true heart for animals who need a home. He is also carrying some burdens from his past, which will break your heart when you read and hear his thoughts about being loved.
Sadie is a florist on her family's farm. She has had to temporarily put her career dreams on hold due to a clause in her father's Will. She and Mick are best friends. Mick agrees to be her date for a wedding, and they decide to fake date through the holiday season to keep the merry matchmakers at bay.
I admired everything about Mick and Sadie. They had hearts of gold. They care about all of God's creatures. They were also incredibly sensitive to the needs of those around them and enjoyed doing things to brighten the days of others and were selfless in giving of their time and energy to do whatever was needed for their community, family and friends. On the flip side they are both carrying some emotional baggage and maybe a little fear.
There was a live nativity at Foxtail Farms, which was one of my favorite parts of this story with the live animals and the retelling of the Christmas story.
This story was uplifting and inspirational with a sweet budding romance between two friends who just need to get out of their own way. As far as Christmas stories go, this one was perfect as it was festive, but it also emphasized the true meaning of Christmas.
Thank you to JustRead Publications and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Mick is the local veterinarian who has never seen an animal he did not want to rescue. He has a true heart for animals who need a home. He is also carrying some burdens from his past, which will break your heart when you read and hear his thoughts about being loved.
Sadie is a florist on her family's farm. She has had to temporarily put her career dreams on hold due to a clause in her father's Will. She and Mick are best friends. Mick agrees to be her date for a wedding, and they decide to fake date through the holiday season to keep the merry matchmakers at bay.
I admired everything about Mick and Sadie. They had hearts of gold. They care about all of God's creatures. They were also incredibly sensitive to the needs of those around them and enjoyed doing things to brighten the days of others and were selfless in giving of their time and energy to do whatever was needed for their community, family and friends. On the flip side they are both carrying some emotional baggage and maybe a little fear.
There was a live nativity at Foxtail Farms, which was one of my favorite parts of this story with the live animals and the retelling of the Christmas story.
This story was uplifting and inspirational with a sweet budding romance between two friends who just need to get out of their own way. As far as Christmas stories go, this one was perfect as it was festive, but it also emphasized the true meaning of Christmas.
Thank you to JustRead Publications and the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 29, 2025
"She bit her lip. Mick didn't need to hear about her petty problems. But .. She needed a man. And Mick was one. Obviously.
And he was as easy to be around as he was on the eyes, not that it mattered. Everything about Mick was simple, comfortable, stress-free.
But she couldn't ask him.
Could she?"
Florist Sadie Dalton has known veterinarian. Mick Larson for forever. They both had friend zoned each other a long time. Yet their connection to each other has always been strong. So when Sadie found herself in need of a date for an upcoming event, she immediately thought of Mick.
Mick had always appreciated Sadie. But he felt like he had too much baggage to pursue a relationship. Pretending to like her would be easy enough, but what might happen if his feelings turned real? Will playing pretend break both of their hearts?
I greatly enjoyed this book that is full of all of the holiday feels. The characters continue to look out for each other despite the fact that they both have plenty of excuses as to why they can never be a couple. Friendship to more provides the sweetest stories.
This is the second book in the foxtail farm series. If you can get a copy of the first book, Mountain Homecoming, I would read that first. That being said, you could definitely follow along without reading the other title. I can't wait to read more books in this series!
I do highly recommend this book. Grab a mug of something warm to drink. Curl up by the fireplace and enjoy!!
Thank you to Susanne Dietze for letting me read an advance copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it! All opinions are my own!
And he was as easy to be around as he was on the eyes, not that it mattered. Everything about Mick was simple, comfortable, stress-free.
But she couldn't ask him.
Could she?"
Florist Sadie Dalton has known veterinarian. Mick Larson for forever. They both had friend zoned each other a long time. Yet their connection to each other has always been strong. So when Sadie found herself in need of a date for an upcoming event, she immediately thought of Mick.
Mick had always appreciated Sadie. But he felt like he had too much baggage to pursue a relationship. Pretending to like her would be easy enough, but what might happen if his feelings turned real? Will playing pretend break both of their hearts?
I greatly enjoyed this book that is full of all of the holiday feels. The characters continue to look out for each other despite the fact that they both have plenty of excuses as to why they can never be a couple. Friendship to more provides the sweetest stories.
This is the second book in the foxtail farm series. If you can get a copy of the first book, Mountain Homecoming, I would read that first. That being said, you could definitely follow along without reading the other title. I can't wait to read more books in this series!
I do highly recommend this book. Grab a mug of something warm to drink. Curl up by the fireplace and enjoy!!
Thank you to Susanne Dietze for letting me read an advance copy of this book. I wanted to read and review it! All opinions are my own!
October 19, 2025
As the holidays are quickly approaching, best friends Mick Larson and Sadie Dalton are in need of each others help. Mick is a hometown veterinarian trying to keep his vet clinic more technically modern, and find families for pets. When he is approached to organize a living nativity, and receives a generous monetary gift, he sees this as just what his office needs. He isn’t much of an organized person, but his best friend Sadie is. Sadie is a florist and helps run her family business. When she realizes that her ex will be attending a wedding she is providing flowers for, everyone thinks she will need a date. Mick can be Sadie’s fake date, and Sadie can help organize the living nativity.
Sadie and Mick both have complicated issues from their childhoods. They find strength in their faith. Those closest to them don’t know the issues that they struggle with. Sadie and Mick know and understand each other. Their fake date gets complicated and they find themselves experiencing the joy of the Christmas season together. Elements of helping others, being vulnerable, and God’s love are spread throughout this sweet friends to more Christmas romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Sadie and Mick both have complicated issues from their childhoods. They find strength in their faith. Those closest to them don’t know the issues that they struggle with. Sadie and Mick know and understand each other. Their fake date gets complicated and they find themselves experiencing the joy of the Christmas season together. Elements of helping others, being vulnerable, and God’s love are spread throughout this sweet friends to more Christmas romance.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
November 19, 2025
This is probably the most perfect Christmas read I've seen in a while...Dietze did it SO WELL :)
best friends fall in love
Christmas
very, very little romance
lots of animals
community/great characters
family
two childhood hurts that get healed
a live Nativity celebrating the birth of Christ
The cover, for me, doesn't do the story justice nor does it fully capture Sadie and Mick's characters as I envision them throughout the story. However, the cover doesn't take away from the story at all. And this book is part of a series I haven't read, but it can still be considered a stand-alone, something else I appreciate :)
I was shaking my head at the poinsettias delivery scene, but man Sadie comes up with a perfect idea for correcting this error in the midst of everything else she is doing!
This story truly had me fully engaged to the point of shaking my head, laughing at the silly moments and being moved to tears towards the end. And the ending was also perfect! Yeah, this is a story that can be read every Christmas no matter how the person celebrates, making the reader feel like they're part of a fictional family. Didn't want it to end because now I have to find another read that will bless me the way this one did :)
best friends fall in love
Christmas
very, very little romance
lots of animals
community/great characters
family
two childhood hurts that get healed
a live Nativity celebrating the birth of Christ
The cover, for me, doesn't do the story justice nor does it fully capture Sadie and Mick's characters as I envision them throughout the story. However, the cover doesn't take away from the story at all. And this book is part of a series I haven't read, but it can still be considered a stand-alone, something else I appreciate :)
I was shaking my head at the poinsettias delivery scene, but man Sadie comes up with a perfect idea for correcting this error in the midst of everything else she is doing!
This story truly had me fully engaged to the point of shaking my head, laughing at the silly moments and being moved to tears towards the end. And the ending was also perfect! Yeah, this is a story that can be read every Christmas no matter how the person celebrates, making the reader feel like they're part of a fictional family. Didn't want it to end because now I have to find another read that will bless me the way this one did :)
October 21, 2025
It was a delight to return to Foxtail Farm in Susanne Dietze’s charming new Christmas tale, Her Pretend Holiday Beau. When florist Sadie Dalton needs a beau to avoid some matchmaking friends and to avoid her ex-boyfriend, Mick Larson agrees to help her out in exchange for her assistance in planning the town’s living nativity event. As they work together to plan the event and go on several dates, will their longtime friendship turn into something deeper?
I enjoyed seeing Sadie and Mick work together along with their fellow neighbors to bring holiday magic to their town. It was fun to see their relationship change and grow as they resolved some long-standing hurts and relied on their faith and family to make good decisions. There is a strong faith element, along with themes of family, friendships, serving others, and relying on God to help them. This is a charming and heart-warming Christmas story that is an entertaining addition to the holiday season. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
I enjoyed seeing Sadie and Mick work together along with their fellow neighbors to bring holiday magic to their town. It was fun to see their relationship change and grow as they resolved some long-standing hurts and relied on their faith and family to make good decisions. There is a strong faith element, along with themes of family, friendships, serving others, and relying on God to help them. This is a charming and heart-warming Christmas story that is an entertaining addition to the holiday season. 4.5 stars
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
October 21, 2025
I adored this novel so much! I read it during a particularly difficult time, and it ended up being a timely reminder for me and was a soothing balm. There were so many moments that were wrapped up in Christmasy goodness that I could almost smell the cinnamon spice in the air while I read. Watching this friendship blossom into more felt as organic as breathing. It is clear these two were meant to be together.
This was one of those deliciously quick and breezy weekend reads that have been some of my recent favorites. You get that nice little escape with a picturesque holiday setting, sweet characters, and the charming small-town vibe that I often dream of.
I do wish there could’ve been a little surprise in there somewhere and not so cookie-cutter, but it was so delightful and so cute that I couldn’t be mad. Reading about healing and restoration reminds me that there can be healing with patience and love.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
This was one of those deliciously quick and breezy weekend reads that have been some of my recent favorites. You get that nice little escape with a picturesque holiday setting, sweet characters, and the charming small-town vibe that I often dream of.
I do wish there could’ve been a little surprise in there somewhere and not so cookie-cutter, but it was so delightful and so cute that I couldn’t be mad. Reading about healing and restoration reminds me that there can be healing with patience and love.
*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
October 27, 2025
I loved this book! Chapter one was a bit slow for me, but I got hooked on chap 2 and couldn't put it down.
Susanne masterfully weaves a cozy romance where the two charaters struggle with self doubt/value. I became fully invested in Mick and Sadie, growing up with similar insecurities. This has become my favorite friends to lovers story! Full of humorous scenes from well intended match making friends, fun banter, and winter magic, I'd love to see this become a movie.
Although, this was book 2 in the series, it could be read as a stand-alone. I didn't feel lost in the story for not knowing this small town community. I do want to pick up book 1 though and can't wait for book 3 to come out!!
This is my first Contemporary Romance by Susanne Dietze and it won't be last! I've enjoyed her historical Romance novels, and she was a delight with contemporary!
This book was given to me, but I was not required to give a positive review, these thoughts and opinions are my own.
Susanne masterfully weaves a cozy romance where the two charaters struggle with self doubt/value. I became fully invested in Mick and Sadie, growing up with similar insecurities. This has become my favorite friends to lovers story! Full of humorous scenes from well intended match making friends, fun banter, and winter magic, I'd love to see this become a movie.
Although, this was book 2 in the series, it could be read as a stand-alone. I didn't feel lost in the story for not knowing this small town community. I do want to pick up book 1 though and can't wait for book 3 to come out!!
This is my first Contemporary Romance by Susanne Dietze and it won't be last! I've enjoyed her historical Romance novels, and she was a delight with contemporary!
This book was given to me, but I was not required to give a positive review, these thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 30, 2025
This was a cute, quick story. I liked that they had a good reason for their fake relationship, but I did think the transition from friends to more was a bit stilted (feelings and conversations). I wanted a bit more detail and maybe some sweet memories from being friends for so long that they could build on, for development. But it was nice that they both worked on their relationships with their families, and I really liked the living nativity. It was a predictable story, but in a sweet Hallmarkish kind of way. A nice light read for the season. I would try another book by this author.
Content: clean.
I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Content: clean.
I received this book free from the publisher/author. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
October 28, 2025
Susie is one of my must read Love Inspired authors and I love her stories. Sadie & Mick’s Christmas romance was sweet. Friends to more is one of my favorite tropes and I also appreciated the way Susie worked out their “fake dating.” I also liked the family dynamics for both Mick & Sadie and how they managed to speak up for themselves with their family issues. The Living Nativity was also a fun element to the story. This was a really good read!
I received a copy of this book from the altar and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the altar and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
February 22, 2026
Susanne Dietze’s Her Pretend Holiday Beau immediately draws you in with her two very sweet and relatable main characters. The premise of a fake relationship between them creates the perfect tension and instantly compels the need to see the full evolution of their love story. I loved the way the hero and heroine genuinely supported and cared for one another throughout the book. Their humorous banter made it even more enjoyable and endearing. I highly recommend this book for anyone who loves a friends-to-more story that is full of heart, faith, and community.
October 8, 2025
Her Pretend Holiday Beau by Susanna Dietz, was such a wonderful Christmas read with such amazing characters as Sadie and Mick are best friends can they come to realize they are more than just friends I highly recommend this book I was given a compilatory copy and this is my own honest opinion !
November 3, 2025
I loved this sweet Holiday love inspired story! I have read other books by this author, so I was familiar with some of the characters and Foxtail Farm. Each book can be read as a stand-alone story.
The main characters Sadie and Mick were personable, and I loved reading about their friendship and their willingness to always serve and help each other and the community. Mick, the local vet gets asked to run a live nativity and immediately asks his friend Sadie to help with the planning. Sadie, a local florist is always willing to help a friend but can't help feeling more than friendship towards Mick.
I loved reading this book! This easy to read, feel good story will definitely put you in the holiday spirit!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
The main characters Sadie and Mick were personable, and I loved reading about their friendship and their willingness to always serve and help each other and the community. Mick, the local vet gets asked to run a live nativity and immediately asks his friend Sadie to help with the planning. Sadie, a local florist is always willing to help a friend but can't help feeling more than friendship towards Mick.
I loved reading this book! This easy to read, feel good story will definitely put you in the holiday spirit!
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.
November 25, 2025
I really liked the faith content and conversations.
The romance was good except for the thir act break up which was ridiculous.
Some slow parts.
I liked it enough to buy a copy of this so I can annotate it.
The romance was good except for the thir act break up which was ridiculous.
Some slow parts.
I liked it enough to buy a copy of this so I can annotate it.
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