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The Reluctant Romantics #1
Terms and Traditions
Fake dating my millionaire boss was not on my Christmas list, but I’m not complaining.
Stephanie :
I’ve kept my crush on Nash Prescott under wraps for two years. We might be friends, but I’m still his PA. Until that fatal office Christmas party when my frayed emotions had me opening my big mouth and asking Nash to spend the holidays with me at my dysfunctional family’s cabin… as my fake boyfriend. I’m not sure what’s more surprising—that I didn’t pass out when I asked or the fact he said yes.
But Nash offers up a twist of his dating for real. He’s all I ever wanted, but saying yes to more means opening myself up to even more heartbreak. And I’m terrified once the sugarplum haze of the holidays finally pops, we’ll find we’re really better off as friends.
Nash :
Hold all calls, Christmas came early. Having Stephanie propose fake dating while vacationing with her family for the holidays in snowy Jackson, Wyoming, means coming face to face with the man behind the biggest rival company for my marketing firm—Stephanie’s dad.
Won’t this Christmas be jolly. But Stephanie’s worth it despite all the initial rites of passage and barbs that fly our way. The only problem? Persuading Stephanie to take a chance on us for real. But if I play my cards right and prove to her I’m in for the long-haul, this might just be my favourite Christmas ever.
Terms and Traditions is a friends-to-lovers, boss/personal assistant, fake dating, sweet romantic comedy with plenty of heart, faith, swoon, and laugh aloud Christmas shenanigans—all without the spice.
Stephanie :
I’ve kept my crush on Nash Prescott under wraps for two years. We might be friends, but I’m still his PA. Until that fatal office Christmas party when my frayed emotions had me opening my big mouth and asking Nash to spend the holidays with me at my dysfunctional family’s cabin… as my fake boyfriend. I’m not sure what’s more surprising—that I didn’t pass out when I asked or the fact he said yes.
But Nash offers up a twist of his dating for real. He’s all I ever wanted, but saying yes to more means opening myself up to even more heartbreak. And I’m terrified once the sugarplum haze of the holidays finally pops, we’ll find we’re really better off as friends.
Nash :
Hold all calls, Christmas came early. Having Stephanie propose fake dating while vacationing with her family for the holidays in snowy Jackson, Wyoming, means coming face to face with the man behind the biggest rival company for my marketing firm—Stephanie’s dad.
Won’t this Christmas be jolly. But Stephanie’s worth it despite all the initial rites of passage and barbs that fly our way. The only problem? Persuading Stephanie to take a chance on us for real. But if I play my cards right and prove to her I’m in for the long-haul, this might just be my favourite Christmas ever.
Terms and Traditions is a friends-to-lovers, boss/personal assistant, fake dating, sweet romantic comedy with plenty of heart, faith, swoon, and laugh aloud Christmas shenanigans—all without the spice.
435 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 4, 2025
33 people are currently reading
453 people want to read
About the author
Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht
2 books190 followersMorgan Taylor Giesbrecht fell in love with fictional realms at a young age and quickly began writing tales of her own--full of hope, brave living in a dark world, and unexpected love stories for the crusty romantics (like herself). She’s a hobbit at heart (but not in height) with deep roots in the past, who loves the occasional adventure, accidentally talks in a British accent on occasion, and has the dry humour to match. When she isn’t writing or reading a book on her never ending to-be-read list, she can be found drinking copious amounts of tea, rewatching comfort shows for the umpteenth time, hanging out with family and friends, reorganising her bookshelves, or playing Christmas music year-round. British Columbia, Canada is the place she calls home, nestled in the foothills.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
December 14, 2025
4 stars, personally ⭐️ Christian Fiction - Christmas Rom-Com
About this book:
“Fake dating my millionaire boss was not on my Christmas list, but I’m not complaining.
Stephanie :
I’ve kept my crush on Nash Prescott under wraps for two years. We might be friends, but I’m still his PA. Until that fatal office Christmas party when my frayed emotions had me opening my big mouth and asking Nash to spend the holidays with me at my dysfunctional family’s cabin… as my fake boyfriend. I’m not sure what’s more surprising—that I didn’t pass out when I asked or the fact he said yes.
But Nash offers up a twist of his dating for real. He’s all I ever wanted, but saying yes to more means opening myself up to even more heartbreak. And I’m terrified once the sugarplum haze of the holidays finally pops, we’ll find we’re really better off as friends.
Nash :
Hold all calls, Christmas came early. Having Stephanie propose fake dating while vacationing with her family for the holidays in snowy Jackson, Wyoming, means coming face to face with the man behind the biggest rival company for my marketing firm—Stephanie’s dad.
Won’t this Christmas be jolly. But Stephanie’s worth it despite all the initial rites of passage and barbs that fly our way. The only problem? Persuading Stephanie to take a chance on us for real. But if I play my cards right and prove to her I’m in for the long-haul, this might just be my favourite Christmas ever.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Reluctant Romantics” series.
Spiritual Content- Prayers; A Scripture is referenced; Talks about God; ’H’s are capital when referring to God; Set during Christmas & a hymn is sung; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; A couple mentions of Bibles; A couple mentions of churches & church going; A couple mentions of Heaven & being reunited one day with a loved one who has passed; A couple mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of nativities; A couple mentions of being blessed; A mention of a church nativity pageant; A mention of the mission field;
*Note: A few mentions of foods tasting or smelling heavenly; A mention of a “ungodly hour” in the early morning; A mention of Saint Nick; A mention of luck; A mention of Murphy’s Law.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sucked’, a ‘drat’, a ‘dang’, a ‘dumb’, a form of ‘freaking’, a ‘heck’, a ‘stinkin’’, an unfinished ‘what the…’, two ‘darn’s, two ‘gosh’s, two ‘oh my gosh’s, two forms of ‘ticked’, three ‘shut up’s, six forms of ‘idiot’, and six forms of ‘stupid’; Phrases like “sugarplums”, “gingersnaps”, and “who in the Kris Kringle of Christmas” are said in place of other words/exclamations; Mentions of curses (said, not written or cut-off); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Mentions of death & grief (including of grandparents); Mentions of wars; Mentions of a drug addiction, a parent who has one, & rehab; Mentions of an abusive spouse; Mentions of divorces, spouses leaving each other, & a man who had been married seven times; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of alcohol; Mentions of throwing up/vomit; A few mentions of injuries & stitches; A couple mentions of cannibals and murderers; A couple mentions of blackmail;
*Note: Stephanie has a panic attack on-page (up to semi-detailed with her being unable to breathe); Stephanie has POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and her experiences with that are on-page (nearly fainting, collapsing, & seeing spots, up to semi-detailed); Stephanie has a very strained relationship with her father due to his abandonment when she was a child and his current attitude towards her & she does not have a relationship with her mother who has no interest in knowing her (both of these are mentioned often and has affected Stephanie’s view of her worth because of being told as a child that “everyone leaves” and always expecting others to leave her behind); Stephanie’s father tries to manipulative her to do what he wants; Stephanie refers to her parents by their first names; Nash’s mother kicked him out when he turned eighteen; Mentions of car brands; Mentions of brand names (La Croix, Settlers of Catan, Monopoly, Nerf guns, Polly Pocket, Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade, Tiffany and Co, Armani, Elf on the Shelf, ChapStick); Mentions of fictional characters (Wednesday Addams, Morticia, Frosty the Snowman, John Keating, Tinkerbell, James Bond, & Oscar the Grouch); Mentions of movies, TV shows, & actors (Little Women, Up, The Man Who Invented Christmas, Father of the Bride, Hunger Games, White Christmas, Lord of the Rings, High School Musical, Lion King, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Anne of Green Gables, Jeeves and Wooster, Little House on the Prairie, Dan Stevens, Steve Martin, & Grace Kelly); Mentions of Hallmark movies; Mentions of songs & singers (Frank Sinatra, the Jonas Brothers, Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Shania Twain, Mariah Carey, & Carrie Underwood); A few mentions of anxiety; A few mentions of therapists & therapy; A few mentions of authors (Shakespeare, Brandon Sanderson, & J.R.R. Tolkien); A mention of Disney; A mention of a vampire.
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, five hand kisses, six cheek kisses, five head/forehead/hair kisses, two almost kisses, two not-detailed kisses, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, and two border-line semi-detailed // detailed kisses; Remembering kisses & Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Staring at lips (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing a married couple kiss/make-out (barely-above-not-detailed with a comment about “[getting] a room”); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Cuddling/Snuggling, Sitting on his lap, Warmth, Tingles, Butterflies, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Flirting, Blushes, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (up to semi-detailed); When planning the rules of their fake dating, Stephanie tells Nash that she’s not going to sleep with him and Nash says doesn’t intend to cross that line until he has married his wife; Stephanie’s father accuses her of sleeping with Nash & one of her brother’s calls him her “boy toy”; Stephanie comes into Nash’s room and when he realizes they are standing “a little too close” in his bedroom, he motions for them to leave; Stephanie and Nash go to a pantry to kiss/make-out; In a bonus epilogue, it’s from the POV of one of Stephanie’s married friends and she appreciates her husband wearing just a towel, they share a few kisses, & later cuddle in bed (barely-above-not-detailed except for one kiss being semi-detailed); In a bonus story in the author’s newsletter, there’s a mention of one of Nash’s prior assistants being found in his bedroom without any clothes on (her own doing and he quickly fired her); A ‘hot’ and three ‘babe’s; All about & many mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, dating, break-ups, cheating, exes, & crushes; Many mentions of kisses, kissing, & making out (including others couples kissing); Mentions of a creepy guy who tried to force a kiss on Stephanie (sexual assault); Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of Stephanie and Nash not sharing a room at her family’s cabin (she notes that most of her family aren’t believers and don’t share those convictions); A couple mentions of sleazy movies; A couple mentions of seducing someone; A couple mentions of a nail polish named “Seductive Wine”; A mention of a rumor that Stephanie slept her way to her job position; A mention of an elderly aunt making passes at any handsome man (including ones with a ring on his finger); A mention of a possible affair; A mention of Stephanie’s father’s new wife being young enough to be his daughter; A mention of stripping; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Nash doesn’t know who his biological father is; Nash doesn’t think he is enough for others (because of a past relationship and also because of his mother not caring for him more than her addiction); Stephanie’s father makes a comment to his new wife about limiting her carbs; Stephanie’s father gives her a dress that is “slinky, bordering on risqué” and missing the back (which she does not wear); Mentions of couples that went through or are going through infertility; A mention of a woman’s “lifts”.
- Stephanie Addams, age 28
-Nash Prescott, age 33
P.O.V. switches between them
356 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Welp, that was pretty cute 🥰
While I might not be a huge Christmas-themed book fan, I am, however, a big fan of the faking dating trope and a Male Main Character in glasses (👏), so I knew I had to try this one. The verdict? I read it in a handful of hours and greatly enjoyed my time with these two imperfect and very lovable characters. I wished I could give Stephanie a hug and encourage her, but I’m so glad she has such a great friend group to do just that.
On the topic of the friend group, at times it felt like I was jumping into the middle of a series because of all of them and being told about their relationships—which I would have love to read prior—but it was shockingly easy to keep track of everyone. There were some parts that were retold to the reader again and again that I think could have been cut, but perhaps that’s why I was able to keep track of everyone? I’m not sure, but the friend groups added humor and also really cared for our couple that have been through a lot prior to these pages. I’m glad to hear that we’ll be getting some of the friends’ stories and continuations in the future books in this series and will probably be making an exception for my “usually avoid married couples as main characters due to sexual content/suggestions” guideline/rule to read them when they release.
As far as the content goes, I was very pleasantly surprised! I wasn’t sure if this book would have too much romance for my tastes and while they do share a lot of sweet kisses, I never felt like I was a third-wheel or that there was too much emotions/details. There were a few comments here and there about not sleeping with someone before being married and I appreciated that both Stephanie and Nash were open about that and also respectful towards honoring the other. A couple kisses were a little longer than I would have preferred, so I would personally suggest this book for ages 17+, especially for those interested in a cute Christmas rom-com.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
About this book:
“Fake dating my millionaire boss was not on my Christmas list, but I’m not complaining.
Stephanie :
I’ve kept my crush on Nash Prescott under wraps for two years. We might be friends, but I’m still his PA. Until that fatal office Christmas party when my frayed emotions had me opening my big mouth and asking Nash to spend the holidays with me at my dysfunctional family’s cabin… as my fake boyfriend. I’m not sure what’s more surprising—that I didn’t pass out when I asked or the fact he said yes.
But Nash offers up a twist of his dating for real. He’s all I ever wanted, but saying yes to more means opening myself up to even more heartbreak. And I’m terrified once the sugarplum haze of the holidays finally pops, we’ll find we’re really better off as friends.
Nash :
Hold all calls, Christmas came early. Having Stephanie propose fake dating while vacationing with her family for the holidays in snowy Jackson, Wyoming, means coming face to face with the man behind the biggest rival company for my marketing firm—Stephanie’s dad.
Won’t this Christmas be jolly. But Stephanie’s worth it despite all the initial rites of passage and barbs that fly our way. The only problem? Persuading Stephanie to take a chance on us for real. But if I play my cards right and prove to her I’m in for the long-haul, this might just be my favourite Christmas ever.”
Series: Book #1 in “The Reluctant Romantics” series.
Spiritual Content- Prayers; A Scripture is referenced; Talks about God; ’H’s are capital when referring to God; Set during Christmas & a hymn is sung; Mentions of God & Jesus; Mentions of prayers, praying, thanking God, & blessings over food; A couple mentions of Bibles; A couple mentions of churches & church going; A couple mentions of Heaven & being reunited one day with a loved one who has passed; A couple mentions of hymns; A couple mentions of nativities; A couple mentions of being blessed; A mention of a church nativity pageant; A mention of the mission field;
*Note: A few mentions of foods tasting or smelling heavenly; A mention of a “ungodly hour” in the early morning; A mention of Saint Nick; A mention of luck; A mention of Murphy’s Law.
Negative Content- Minor cussing including: a ‘sucked’, a ‘drat’, a ‘dang’, a ‘dumb’, a form of ‘freaking’, a ‘heck’, a ‘stinkin’’, an unfinished ‘what the…’, two ‘darn’s, two ‘gosh’s, two ‘oh my gosh’s, two forms of ‘ticked’, three ‘shut up’s, six forms of ‘idiot’, and six forms of ‘stupid’; Phrases like “sugarplums”, “gingersnaps”, and “who in the Kris Kringle of Christmas” are said in place of other words/exclamations; Mentions of curses (said, not written or cut-off); Eye rolling & Sarcasm; Mentions of death & grief (including of grandparents); Mentions of wars; Mentions of a drug addiction, a parent who has one, & rehab; Mentions of an abusive spouse; Mentions of divorces, spouses leaving each other, & a man who had been married seven times; Mentions of lies, lying, & liars; Mentions of rumors & gossip; Mentions of hatred; Mentions of jealousy; Mentions of alcohol; Mentions of throwing up/vomit; A few mentions of injuries & stitches; A couple mentions of cannibals and murderers; A couple mentions of blackmail;
*Note: Stephanie has a panic attack on-page (up to semi-detailed with her being unable to breathe); Stephanie has POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome) and her experiences with that are on-page (nearly fainting, collapsing, & seeing spots, up to semi-detailed); Stephanie has a very strained relationship with her father due to his abandonment when she was a child and his current attitude towards her & she does not have a relationship with her mother who has no interest in knowing her (both of these are mentioned often and has affected Stephanie’s view of her worth because of being told as a child that “everyone leaves” and always expecting others to leave her behind); Stephanie’s father tries to manipulative her to do what he wants; Stephanie refers to her parents by their first names; Nash’s mother kicked him out when he turned eighteen; Mentions of car brands; Mentions of brand names (La Croix, Settlers of Catan, Monopoly, Nerf guns, Polly Pocket, Louis Vuitton, Kate Spade, Tiffany and Co, Armani, Elf on the Shelf, ChapStick); Mentions of fictional characters (Wednesday Addams, Morticia, Frosty the Snowman, John Keating, Tinkerbell, James Bond, & Oscar the Grouch); Mentions of movies, TV shows, & actors (Little Women, Up, The Man Who Invented Christmas, Father of the Bride, Hunger Games, White Christmas, Lord of the Rings, High School Musical, Lion King, It’s a Wonderful Life, The Grinch Who Stole Christmas, Anne of Green Gables, Jeeves and Wooster, Little House on the Prairie, Dan Stevens, Steve Martin, & Grace Kelly); Mentions of Hallmark movies; Mentions of songs & singers (Frank Sinatra, the Jonas Brothers, Bing Crosby, Elvis Presley, Nat King Cole, Shania Twain, Mariah Carey, & Carrie Underwood); A few mentions of anxiety; A few mentions of therapists & therapy; A few mentions of authors (Shakespeare, Brandon Sanderson, & J.R.R. Tolkien); A mention of Disney; A mention of a vampire.
Sexual Content- A fingers-to-lips touch, five hand kisses, six cheek kisses, five head/forehead/hair kisses, two almost kisses, two not-detailed kisses, five barely-above-not-detailed kisses, three semi-detailed kisses, and two border-line semi-detailed // detailed kisses; Remembering kisses & Wanting to kiss (up to semi-detailed); Staring at lips (barely-above-not-detailed); Seeing a married couple kiss/make-out (barely-above-not-detailed with a comment about “[getting] a room”); Touches, Embraces, Hand holding, Cuddling/Snuggling, Sitting on his lap, Warmth, Tingles, Butterflies, Nearness, & Smelling (up to semi-detailed); Flirting, Blushes, & Winks; Noticing & Staring (up to semi-detailed); When planning the rules of their fake dating, Stephanie tells Nash that she’s not going to sleep with him and Nash says doesn’t intend to cross that line until he has married his wife; Stephanie’s father accuses her of sleeping with Nash & one of her brother’s calls him her “boy toy”; Stephanie comes into Nash’s room and when he realizes they are standing “a little too close” in his bedroom, he motions for them to leave; Stephanie and Nash go to a pantry to kiss/make-out; In a bonus epilogue, it’s from the POV of one of Stephanie’s married friends and she appreciates her husband wearing just a towel, they share a few kisses, & later cuddle in bed (barely-above-not-detailed except for one kiss being semi-detailed); In a bonus story in the author’s newsletter, there’s a mention of one of Nash’s prior assistants being found in his bedroom without any clothes on (her own doing and he quickly fired her); A ‘hot’ and three ‘babe’s; All about & many mentions of boyfriends/girlfriends, dates, dating, break-ups, cheating, exes, & crushes; Many mentions of kisses, kissing, & making out (including others couples kissing); Mentions of a creepy guy who tried to force a kiss on Stephanie (sexual assault); Mentions of flirting; Mentions of jealousy; A few mentions of Stephanie and Nash not sharing a room at her family’s cabin (she notes that most of her family aren’t believers and don’t share those convictions); A couple mentions of sleazy movies; A couple mentions of seducing someone; A couple mentions of a nail polish named “Seductive Wine”; A mention of a rumor that Stephanie slept her way to her job position; A mention of an elderly aunt making passes at any handsome man (including ones with a ring on his finger); A mention of a possible affair; A mention of Stephanie’s father’s new wife being young enough to be his daughter; A mention of stripping; Love, falling in love, & the emotions;
*Note: Nash doesn’t know who his biological father is; Nash doesn’t think he is enough for others (because of a past relationship and also because of his mother not caring for him more than her addiction); Stephanie’s father makes a comment to his new wife about limiting her carbs; Stephanie’s father gives her a dress that is “slinky, bordering on risqué” and missing the back (which she does not wear); Mentions of couples that went through or are going through infertility; A mention of a woman’s “lifts”.
- Stephanie Addams, age 28
-Nash Prescott, age 33
P.O.V. switches between them
356 pages
~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*
Pre Teens- One Star
New Teens- One Star
Early High School Teens- Two Stars
Older High School Teens- Three Stars
My personal Rating- Four Stars
Welp, that was pretty cute 🥰
While I might not be a huge Christmas-themed book fan, I am, however, a big fan of the faking dating trope and a Male Main Character in glasses (👏), so I knew I had to try this one. The verdict? I read it in a handful of hours and greatly enjoyed my time with these two imperfect and very lovable characters. I wished I could give Stephanie a hug and encourage her, but I’m so glad she has such a great friend group to do just that.
On the topic of the friend group, at times it felt like I was jumping into the middle of a series because of all of them and being told about their relationships—which I would have love to read prior—but it was shockingly easy to keep track of everyone. There were some parts that were retold to the reader again and again that I think could have been cut, but perhaps that’s why I was able to keep track of everyone? I’m not sure, but the friend groups added humor and also really cared for our couple that have been through a lot prior to these pages. I’m glad to hear that we’ll be getting some of the friends’ stories and continuations in the future books in this series and will probably be making an exception for my “usually avoid married couples as main characters due to sexual content/suggestions” guideline/rule to read them when they release.
As far as the content goes, I was very pleasantly surprised! I wasn’t sure if this book would have too much romance for my tastes and while they do share a lot of sweet kisses, I never felt like I was a third-wheel or that there was too much emotions/details. There were a few comments here and there about not sleeping with someone before being married and I appreciated that both Stephanie and Nash were open about that and also respectful towards honoring the other. A couple kisses were a little longer than I would have preferred, so I would personally suggest this book for ages 17+, especially for those interested in a cute Christmas rom-com.
Link to review:
https://booksforchristiangirls.blogsp...
*BFCG may (Read the review to see) recommend this book by this author. It does not mean I recommend all the books by this author.
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November 7, 2025hey, friend, I’m glad you’re here!!
T&T was such a fun book to write! While up to this point, historical fiction had been my main focus, some life circumstances and trying to cope with grief & loss last year left my writing floundering. But God in His goodness rekindled my love for the written word, and this story was born out of that season.
I’m not a hopeless romantic (more a closet/crusty romantic), and this book is for my fellow crusty romantics, who might be skeptical about love. It’s a romcom so of course it’s a bit romance-y, but it’s also a story about being willing to open up your heart again, even when it feels scary. 🫶🏻 And if you are a hopeless romantic, I think you’ll love it, too!
Getting to write something light-hearted and fun with some thoughtful themes was a delight. I’m excited for you to meet Nash & Stephanie and their friends—and for more stories to be told in this book universe!
I pray this book blesses your heart & makes you laugh. 💛
T&T was such a fun book to write! While up to this point, historical fiction had been my main focus, some life circumstances and trying to cope with grief & loss last year left my writing floundering. But God in His goodness rekindled my love for the written word, and this story was born out of that season.
I’m not a hopeless romantic (more a closet/crusty romantic), and this book is for my fellow crusty romantics, who might be skeptical about love. It’s a romcom so of course it’s a bit romance-y, but it’s also a story about being willing to open up your heart again, even when it feels scary. 🫶🏻 And if you are a hopeless romantic, I think you’ll love it, too!
Getting to write something light-hearted and fun with some thoughtful themes was a delight. I’m excited for you to meet Nash & Stephanie and their friends—and for more stories to be told in this book universe!
I pray this book blesses your heart & makes you laugh. 💛
November 29, 2025
❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was not expecting any of this. I was not prepared at all for how much I would be rooting for the characters, laughing at them *cough* excuse me with them 🤭, almost choking up at how strong the faith of the mfc had despite her trash bag of a family (honestly I wanted them all except for her brother and her cousin and grandma to drive off a cliff 😇).
The Christmas vibes were perfect and cozy and so wonderful! The romance was AMAZING! AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON HOW SHE IS MAKING THIS A SERIES AHHHHHH!!! 🫠😆Also the Christian themes and the characters faith were wonderfully done and how you have to forgive even when a family member has hurt you and don’t even feel bad for what they’ve done (that was to part I got choked up in 😉) If I were to compare between Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht and Pepper Basham’s books and their faith themes and the way they write romance I would say that Morgan Giesbrecht is superior with writing the romance and faith content.
1. Romance - in Pepper Basham’s books that I’ve read (Authentically, Izzy and Positively Penelope) at some point I’ve felt awkward or uneasy in each book for one reason or another. In Authentically Izzy *SPOILER* when Isabel leaves Skymar because she though Brodie was using her and flies back to her home town *END OF SPOILER* it felt a little awkward when that happened and made me cringing a little bit. And in Positively Penelope *SPOILER* the scene were Matt and Penelope were making out (minimal description to mild) in the back of one of the spare theater rooms *END OF SPOILER* made me feel a little uncomfortable bc I preferably don’t think it is the best thing for a guy to have his hands against the wall the FMC is leaning against (trapping her in my opinion) and kissing her is not exactly comfortable… 🫤
But in Terms and Traditions by Morgan Taylor had the romance more innocent and it felt less awkward when they were kissing. *SPOILER (kind of)* when they were kissing in the large pantry at the fmc’s family’s cabin, a bag of flower fell down on them cutting it off before it got too uncomfortable or turning to a make out session *END OF SPOILER*
2. Faith Content - in Pepper Basham’s books she only had little sprinkles of Christian content (ex. Talking about church for a sentence or two max, and mentioning… idk, Jesus or God once or twice in a 400 pg book?), while Terms and Traditions had a more Christ centered romance WHICH WAS SO AMAZING!!!
Moral of the rant: READ THIS BOOK! I truly loved it so much and it is a great winter/Christmas read for anyone who wants to get into a funny romcom! PLEASE READ IT I AM BEGGING YOU!!! 😭🙏🏻
❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
~* {Pre-read} *~
Guess who got the ebook arc!!!! 😆
Literally so excited! I’m such a Christmas person and am so excited for Christmas already (it’s October 🤭) I can’t wait!! 😜
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I was not expecting any of this. I was not prepared at all for how much I would be rooting for the characters, laughing at them *cough* excuse me with them 🤭, almost choking up at how strong the faith of the mfc had despite her trash bag of a family (honestly I wanted them all except for her brother and her cousin and grandma to drive off a cliff 😇).
The Christmas vibes were perfect and cozy and so wonderful! The romance was AMAZING! AND DONT GET ME STARTED ON HOW SHE IS MAKING THIS A SERIES AHHHHHH!!! 🫠😆Also the Christian themes and the characters faith were wonderfully done and how you have to forgive even when a family member has hurt you and don’t even feel bad for what they’ve done (that was to part I got choked up in 😉) If I were to compare between Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht and Pepper Basham’s books and their faith themes and the way they write romance I would say that Morgan Giesbrecht is superior with writing the romance and faith content.
1. Romance - in Pepper Basham’s books that I’ve read (Authentically, Izzy and Positively Penelope) at some point I’ve felt awkward or uneasy in each book for one reason or another. In Authentically Izzy *SPOILER* when Isabel leaves Skymar because she though Brodie was using her and flies back to her home town *END OF SPOILER* it felt a little awkward when that happened and made me cringing a little bit. And in Positively Penelope *SPOILER* the scene were Matt and Penelope were making out (minimal description to mild) in the back of one of the spare theater rooms *END OF SPOILER* made me feel a little uncomfortable bc I preferably don’t think it is the best thing for a guy to have his hands against the wall the FMC is leaning against (trapping her in my opinion) and kissing her is not exactly comfortable… 🫤
But in Terms and Traditions by Morgan Taylor had the romance more innocent and it felt less awkward when they were kissing. *SPOILER (kind of)* when they were kissing in the large pantry at the fmc’s family’s cabin, a bag of flower fell down on them cutting it off before it got too uncomfortable or turning to a make out session *END OF SPOILER*
2. Faith Content - in Pepper Basham’s books she only had little sprinkles of Christian content (ex. Talking about church for a sentence or two max, and mentioning… idk, Jesus or God once or twice in a 400 pg book?), while Terms and Traditions had a more Christ centered romance WHICH WAS SO AMAZING!!!
Moral of the rant: READ THIS BOOK! I truly loved it so much and it is a great winter/Christmas read for anyone who wants to get into a funny romcom! PLEASE READ IT I AM BEGGING YOU!!! 😭🙏🏻
❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
~* {Pre-read} *~
Guess who got the ebook arc!!!! 😆
Literally so excited! I’m such a Christmas person and am so excited for Christmas already (it’s October 🤭) I can’t wait!! 😜
October 19, 2025
****Actual Rating 4.5 Stars****
If you’ve followed my reviews for any length of time then you know I’m not normally a contemporary reader, even less so a rom-com one. (I keep trying, okay? I just…never seem to click with them for some reason, haha) But I wanted to give this one a try because it sounded interesting, so despite my usual bad luck regarding these stories, I signed up for the ARC, got accepted, and without meaning to gobbled up this wonderful, sweet, heartfelt story in one day. It was so good, I just wanted to keep reading to see how things would play out for Stephanie and Nash!
One of the reasons I loved it so much was that it didn’t follow the typical romance genre tropes and plot beats (read: all the super annoying ones that seem to be in EVERY. SINGLE. CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE. EVER! and drive me up a wall!) and the main characters, while having their ups and downs and doubts and fears, acted like—gasp—ADULTS who COMMUNICATED and didn’t just dissolve into drama and stupidity at every little word breathed wrong and rumor that popped into existence. It was honestly so refreshing, as I kept looking for those nasty little blighters to appear only to be so relieved when they didn’t! Especially the third act break up—I SOOO hate that trope with a fiery passion but thankfully it’s not here, yay! 🙌
Another and the most important reason as to why I loved it so much were Stephanie and Nash themselves. They were amazing yet broken and I loved and related to them both SOOO MUCH! They were so real and raw and I loved following them on their journey of healing and love and finding themselves outside of the labels their families and others had twisted them into believing about themselves. They were also super cute together, not gonna lie, heehee. 🤭🥰 I just love them so much, they were great!
The faith content was light but prominent enough to be important to the characters and story while not being awkwardly in your face about it (my biggest gripe with Christian fiction) and in a way that felt natural and real. And the Christmas “events” and elements were so real and atmospheric I almost wanted to be there with them to experience it fully, but not if the Addams family was going to be there, good grief. Those people were the absolute WORST, I despise them so much, ugh! I wanted to throw them all out a window by the time the book was done!
I loved this book FAR more then I thought I would and would highly recommend it! Amazing, beautiful, and touching, this is the perfect Christmas—and even not so Christmas—read!
‼️Content (Note: the author included a content warning page at the beginning of the book)‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character has anxiety and one on page panic attack; parental emotional/mental abuse and abandonment; past grief of a loved one; an extremely dysfunctional family; mentions of a past implied attempted sexual assault (a kiss) on a character
Language: gosh; sucked; darn; oh my gosh; schtick; heck; dang; what the; freaking
Sexual: mentions of a past implied attempted sexual assault (a kiss) on a character; kissing (not detailed)
Alcohol/Drugs: a character’s mother is in and out of rehab for drug addiction (only mentioned, never shown)
Other: a character has anxiety and one on page panic attack; parental emotional/mental abuse and abandonment; past grief of a loved one; an extremely dysfunctional family; tech company espionage
****Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was I wouldn’t have read it. 😜****
If you’ve followed my reviews for any length of time then you know I’m not normally a contemporary reader, even less so a rom-com one. (I keep trying, okay? I just…never seem to click with them for some reason, haha) But I wanted to give this one a try because it sounded interesting, so despite my usual bad luck regarding these stories, I signed up for the ARC, got accepted, and without meaning to gobbled up this wonderful, sweet, heartfelt story in one day. It was so good, I just wanted to keep reading to see how things would play out for Stephanie and Nash!
One of the reasons I loved it so much was that it didn’t follow the typical romance genre tropes and plot beats (read: all the super annoying ones that seem to be in EVERY. SINGLE. CONTEMPORARY ROMANCE. EVER! and drive me up a wall!) and the main characters, while having their ups and downs and doubts and fears, acted like—gasp—ADULTS who COMMUNICATED and didn’t just dissolve into drama and stupidity at every little word breathed wrong and rumor that popped into existence. It was honestly so refreshing, as I kept looking for those nasty little blighters to appear only to be so relieved when they didn’t! Especially the third act break up—I SOOO hate that trope with a fiery passion but thankfully it’s not here, yay! 🙌
Another and the most important reason as to why I loved it so much were Stephanie and Nash themselves. They were amazing yet broken and I loved and related to them both SOOO MUCH! They were so real and raw and I loved following them on their journey of healing and love and finding themselves outside of the labels their families and others had twisted them into believing about themselves. They were also super cute together, not gonna lie, heehee. 🤭🥰 I just love them so much, they were great!
The faith content was light but prominent enough to be important to the characters and story while not being awkwardly in your face about it (my biggest gripe with Christian fiction) and in a way that felt natural and real. And the Christmas “events” and elements were so real and atmospheric I almost wanted to be there with them to experience it fully, but not if the Addams family was going to be there, good grief. Those people were the absolute WORST, I despise them so much, ugh! I wanted to throw them all out a window by the time the book was done!
I loved this book FAR more then I thought I would and would highly recommend it! Amazing, beautiful, and touching, this is the perfect Christmas—and even not so Christmas—read!
‼️Content (Note: the author included a content warning page at the beginning of the book)‼️
TRIGGER WARNING: a character has anxiety and one on page panic attack; parental emotional/mental abuse and abandonment; past grief of a loved one; an extremely dysfunctional family; mentions of a past implied attempted sexual assault (a kiss) on a character
Language: gosh; sucked; darn; oh my gosh; schtick; heck; dang; what the; freaking
Sexual: mentions of a past implied attempted sexual assault (a kiss) on a character; kissing (not detailed)
Alcohol/Drugs: a character’s mother is in and out of rehab for drug addiction (only mentioned, never shown)
Other: a character has anxiety and one on page panic attack; parental emotional/mental abuse and abandonment; past grief of a loved one; an extremely dysfunctional family; tech company espionage
****Note: I received a free copy of the book from the author/publisher. All thoughts and opinions are most assuredly my own and I wasn’t required to write a positive review. If I was I wouldn’t have read it. 😜****
December 13, 2025
I'm not a rom-com person. I can't stand Hallmark movies, and avoid the romance genre as a whole. Now, I do love a good romance, but I'm so picky I've found it hard to find books in that genre I like.
But Morgan's book seemed so cutesy and Christmasy that I figured it was worth a shot, especially because I wanted a cozy holiday read.
I absolutely loved it. It had all the cozy Christmas vibes and sweet romance without being too cheesy or dumb. Finally I've found a book in this genre worth reading. (Maybe one day I'll dust off my own and publish it...) I loved how it was romantic but clean, and while a lot of tropes were used, they were handled in a way that was refreshing and not lame. Highly recommend, and the Christian themes of letting Christ be our identity and our redemption were lovely to read as well.
If you're looking for a holiday romance that's clean and not cheesy/corny, this one is it. Well done!
But Morgan's book seemed so cutesy and Christmasy that I figured it was worth a shot, especially because I wanted a cozy holiday read.
I absolutely loved it. It had all the cozy Christmas vibes and sweet romance without being too cheesy or dumb. Finally I've found a book in this genre worth reading. (Maybe one day I'll dust off my own and publish it...) I loved how it was romantic but clean, and while a lot of tropes were used, they were handled in a way that was refreshing and not lame. Highly recommend, and the Christian themes of letting Christ be our identity and our redemption were lovely to read as well.
If you're looking for a holiday romance that's clean and not cheesy/corny, this one is it. Well done!
February 3, 2026
ARC review/4 stars
(The Reluctant Romantics series: book 1)
Christmas is coming early with this clean romance! I loved the setup: An elegant cabin in the Wyoming mountains? Holiday outfits and festive decor?? Yes, please! And there's just enough descriptive detail that I could visualize everything so well.
I also enjoyed the characters' Christmas traditions. Even though the main family is QUITE dysfunctional (dear FMC, Stephanie, my heart goes out to you...), so many scenes still felt cozy and fun! And I loved the friend groups (although, I did find myself flipping back a few times to remind myself who's who, since the cast list is large).
As for the romance, I really liked the fake-dating setup! From the start, it's clear the characters have feelings for each other, so their relationship never seems fake. This story also involves deeper healing for each character. Heavy topics are discussed (see my content note below for details), but the author handles them well. And, although the faith content is lighter than I expected, I appreciated reminders to look to God for true belonging/guidance!
I'd recommend this to readers looking for a clean (kisses only) holiday romance with touches of humor and extra depth.
*Content to note*
Brief character comparisons to Addams family from TV. Themes of overcoming past traumas such as manipulation/familial abandonment. References to past incident of attempted kiss without consent. Character discusses relative in drug rehab. Discussions of failed marriages, divorces, etc. Character deals with POTS symptoms/brief panic attack scene.
**Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary e-ARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.**
(The Reluctant Romantics series: book 1)
Christmas is coming early with this clean romance! I loved the setup: An elegant cabin in the Wyoming mountains? Holiday outfits and festive decor?? Yes, please! And there's just enough descriptive detail that I could visualize everything so well.
I also enjoyed the characters' Christmas traditions. Even though the main family is QUITE dysfunctional (dear FMC, Stephanie, my heart goes out to you...), so many scenes still felt cozy and fun! And I loved the friend groups (although, I did find myself flipping back a few times to remind myself who's who, since the cast list is large).
As for the romance, I really liked the fake-dating setup! From the start, it's clear the characters have feelings for each other, so their relationship never seems fake. This story also involves deeper healing for each character. Heavy topics are discussed (see my content note below for details), but the author handles them well. And, although the faith content is lighter than I expected, I appreciated reminders to look to God for true belonging/guidance!
I'd recommend this to readers looking for a clean (kisses only) holiday romance with touches of humor and extra depth.
*Content to note*
Brief character comparisons to Addams family from TV. Themes of overcoming past traumas such as manipulation/familial abandonment. References to past incident of attempted kiss without consent. Character discusses relative in drug rehab. Discussions of failed marriages, divorces, etc. Character deals with POTS symptoms/brief panic attack scene.
**Thank you to the author for providing a complimentary e-ARC. All thoughts expressed are my own.**
October 23, 2025
Oh my gosh!!!! Thank you so much for an arc copy!!! i’m sorry it took so long for this review but…
romance genres
🎄fake dating
🎄boss/ assistant?
🎄friends?
characters
🎄Stephanie
🎄Nash
🎄Liz
🎄Hailey
🎄Nana
🎄and many more friends
SUPER GOOD!!! i can’t wait for more!!! i loved nash so much and he was so charming and charismatic!!!!! i giggled and swooned and smiled to everything he said and to all the other stuff in this book!!!
amazing cozy christmastime book and i loved every second of it!!! at the end there are so many bonus chapters and it’s amazing!!! 100% recommend but i would wait for the holidays to make it even more magical and cozy with your hot chocolate and fuzzy blankets!!!!!
romance genres
🎄fake dating
🎄boss/ assistant?
🎄friends?
characters
🎄Stephanie
🎄Nash
🎄Liz
🎄Hailey
🎄Nana
🎄and many more friends
SUPER GOOD!!! i can’t wait for more!!! i loved nash so much and he was so charming and charismatic!!!!! i giggled and swooned and smiled to everything he said and to all the other stuff in this book!!!
amazing cozy christmastime book and i loved every second of it!!! at the end there are so many bonus chapters and it’s amazing!!! 100% recommend but i would wait for the holidays to make it even more magical and cozy with your hot chocolate and fuzzy blankets!!!!!
December 31, 2025
4.5 ⭐️!
A delightful holiday romp with lots of heart, laughter, and coziness.
Where does one find a Nash…asking for a friend 😂
A delightful holiday romp with lots of heart, laughter, and coziness.
Where does one find a Nash…asking for a friend 😂
Read
September 20, 2025GENRE
-Christmas rom-com with light Christian themes
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: panic attack (on page), parental abandonment/estrangement, parent who is addicted to drugs
I had the privilege of proofreading this one, and I loved it! You know how sometimes you don't really connect with the characters in books and they feel kind of flat? That was NOT what happened here. I loved our two MCs, but I was also so invested in the side characters as well. I can't wait to see what else Morgan has happen in this world!
-Christmas rom-com with light Christian themes
CONTENT
-🤬: none
-❤️: kisses
-⚠️: panic attack (on page), parental abandonment/estrangement, parent who is addicted to drugs
I had the privilege of proofreading this one, and I loved it! You know how sometimes you don't really connect with the characters in books and they feel kind of flat? That was NOT what happened here. I loved our two MCs, but I was also so invested in the side characters as well. I can't wait to see what else Morgan has happen in this world!
October 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this story! ❤️❄️ I’m not usually a huge fan of the fake dating trope, but I loved how it was done here. From the very beginning, you can tell both characters genuinely want to pursue each other, which made it so much more enjoyable. We even see Nash offering to truly date her, which she turns down…but don’t worry, it all works out in the end! 😉🙌🏻
There was definitely a lot going on with the family relationships in this book—some people didn’t get along, there’s tension here and there, a bit of drama—you name it. But even with all that, it still had such a cozy, heartwarming feel. I think Morgan did a great job balancing the family drama with those sweet, Christmassy vibes.
The characters were great too! Both the side characters (excluding her horrid family 😅) and of course, Nash and Stephanie. I loved how realistic and easy to like they were, and how adorable these two are together. 🥺🥰 The faith content was really nice and naturally woven in. I loved the themes of finding your worth in God and trusting His timing.
(I received an ARC in the exchange of my honest review)
There was definitely a lot going on with the family relationships in this book—some people didn’t get along, there’s tension here and there, a bit of drama—you name it. But even with all that, it still had such a cozy, heartwarming feel. I think Morgan did a great job balancing the family drama with those sweet, Christmassy vibes.
The characters were great too! Both the side characters (excluding her horrid family 😅) and of course, Nash and Stephanie. I loved how realistic and easy to like they were, and how adorable these two are together. 🥺🥰 The faith content was really nice and naturally woven in. I loved the themes of finding your worth in God and trusting His timing.
(I received an ARC in the exchange of my honest review)
November 3, 2025
I was so excited to get to be on this ARC list!!!!!! And it did not disappoint!
Before I even get to the characters, I first just want to say the vibes and so many fun things about personalities and interests drew me in, making me smile so much!!
Second, the heart in this story and the characters! I highlighted probably 1/4th of the book because I loved so many scenes that made me at different moments cackle and want to hug these characters(both because I so would love to be part of their friend group and because of awww moments)! The themes don’t slap you in the face but make the story so rich!
Speaking of the friend group, the Wise Guys chat is utter perfection and how they all bring out the best in each other made my heart so happy!
Also, I really loved how Stephanie and Nash had known each other for a while, and though noticed each other, their relationship wasn’t built overnight or even a mere few days. They had grown respect for each other and being in the same circle they had a sense of who the other was even before they were more falling for each other. It was really refreshing and it was all so much more… well-rounded than something rushed and solely based on attraction.
There were a couple things that I was at first put off by—the awful characters were def awful, and there didn’t seem to be much depth to them… also, Nana’s the matriarch but her son and the other grandkids(aside from Gabe and Hailey) were so disrespectful even in her presence, like… wouldn’t she have reined them in, or that they would have had at least a little bit more respect for her, because she raised Stephanie well, so her own son would have been? But the more I thought about it, Nana wasn’t any more responsible for their behavior than Stephanie was. It just struck me weird how the rest of the family didn’t even try to at least pretend to be a “big happy family” for the holidays. But maybe that was also a point: they weren’t and they all knew it?
There was a tad bit of repetitiveness in some places.
But overall this was heartwarming, a holiday rom-com with the best elements, and I’m looking forward to more from this author!!
-I had the honor of receiving an ARC copy of this book, all opinions are my own-
Before I even get to the characters, I first just want to say the vibes and so many fun things about personalities and interests drew me in, making me smile so much!!
Second, the heart in this story and the characters! I highlighted probably 1/4th of the book because I loved so many scenes that made me at different moments cackle and want to hug these characters(both because I so would love to be part of their friend group and because of awww moments)! The themes don’t slap you in the face but make the story so rich!
Speaking of the friend group, the Wise Guys chat is utter perfection and how they all bring out the best in each other made my heart so happy!
Also, I really loved how Stephanie and Nash had known each other for a while, and though noticed each other, their relationship wasn’t built overnight or even a mere few days. They had grown respect for each other and being in the same circle they had a sense of who the other was even before they were more falling for each other. It was really refreshing and it was all so much more… well-rounded than something rushed and solely based on attraction.
There were a couple things that I was at first put off by—the awful characters were def awful, and there didn’t seem to be much depth to them… also, Nana’s the matriarch but her son and the other grandkids(aside from Gabe and Hailey) were so disrespectful even in her presence, like… wouldn’t she have reined them in, or that they would have had at least a little bit more respect for her, because she raised Stephanie well, so her own son would have been? But the more I thought about it, Nana wasn’t any more responsible for their behavior than Stephanie was. It just struck me weird how the rest of the family didn’t even try to at least pretend to be a “big happy family” for the holidays. But maybe that was also a point: they weren’t and they all knew it?
There was a tad bit of repetitiveness in some places.
But overall this was heartwarming, a holiday rom-com with the best elements, and I’m looking forward to more from this author!!
-I had the honor of receiving an ARC copy of this book, all opinions are my own-
October 15, 2025
For a book that has a LOT of family drama and complicated dynamics (seriously, Stephanie's family was... something else. And Nash had his own share of family issues as well), there was still something about this book that still felt cozy and warm... it truly felt like home... and I absolutely adored every minute! Stephanie and Nash drew me in right away. They had worked together for a few years... and had crushes on one another just as long! Cue the mutual pining! When she needs a fake boyfriend to go home with her for the holidays, it gives them a chance to test out those waters... and let's just say their chemistry is certainly anything but fake! I loved seeing all of the holiday traditions-- adding just the right amount of holiday cheer, laughs... and yes, some drama too. While this story certainly had me laughing out loud at many moments, I also loved the tenderness and vulnerability between these two as well. Their friends added so much to the story as well, and I find myself looking forward to seeing more of them later in the series.
Terms and Traditions is a faith-filled closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Terms and Traditions is a faith-filled closed-door romance with kisses only and no language.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 6, 2025
What could possibly go wrong with fake dating your boss and taking him to family Christmas? Especially when said boss owns a rival company to your dad’s and part of your family is toxic?
Stephanie and Nash handle their relationship so well! Nash was so supportive of Stephanie and trying to be her best self. Stephanie was so good for Nash, especially once she stopped holding herself back from a real relationship with him.
Favorite parts
-Nash’s suggestion to real date.
-the snowball fight
-the white elephant gift exchange
-the pantry flour incident
-the nerf incident
-their friends who were super supportive
-Nash and Stephanie fighting to make their relationship work.
-the Christmas presents 😍- perfection
Favorite Quotes:
I had the chance to date the woman of my dreams. Merry Christmas to me.
“Thank you. For seeing me, the real me. And not giving up when I gave you every reason to.”
“You can’t get rid of me that easily, Miss Addams,” he quipped with a wink.
Stephanie and Nash handle their relationship so well! Nash was so supportive of Stephanie and trying to be her best self. Stephanie was so good for Nash, especially once she stopped holding herself back from a real relationship with him.
Favorite parts
-Nash’s suggestion to real date.
-the snowball fight
-the white elephant gift exchange
-the pantry flour incident
-the nerf incident
-their friends who were super supportive
-Nash and Stephanie fighting to make their relationship work.
-the Christmas presents 😍- perfection
Favorite Quotes:
I had the chance to date the woman of my dreams. Merry Christmas to me.
“Thank you. For seeing me, the real me. And not giving up when I gave you every reason to.”
“You can’t get rid of me that easily, Miss Addams,” he quipped with a wink.
October 23, 2025
Thank you Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht for an ARC of your book!!!
This was one of the sweetest holiday romance books I’ve read in a long time. I just loved the plot and characters! Nash was such a sweet guy. I love books where he falls first and I thought this one was done very well. This book had all the swoony moments and sayings. I also loved how the romance wasn’t just the main focus of the book but focused a lot on her relationships with her friends and family. I would definitely recommend you add this to your Christmas TBR!!
No spice
No language
4 stars ⭐️
This was one of the sweetest holiday romance books I’ve read in a long time. I just loved the plot and characters! Nash was such a sweet guy. I love books where he falls first and I thought this one was done very well. This book had all the swoony moments and sayings. I also loved how the romance wasn’t just the main focus of the book but focused a lot on her relationships with her friends and family. I would definitely recommend you add this to your Christmas TBR!!
No spice
No language
4 stars ⭐️
November 3, 2025
Ahhh I loved this Christmas Rom-Com! Terms and Traditions was such a cozy, feel-good read! This book will make you feel like you’re wrapped up in a warm hug and wishing it was Christmas already. I loved the mix of friendship, faith, and slow-burn romance. The fake dating and friends-to-lovers tropes were done so well, and the chemistry between Stephanie and Nash made me smile the whole way through. Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht has such a charming way of writing—it makes you want to curl up with hot cocoa and never leave her fictional world.
October 25, 2025
One word. Fantastic. I really enjoyed this story. It's full of emotions and humor. Definitely recommend to anyone that enjoys clean romance!
November 1, 2025
Absolutely loved Stephanie and Nash’s story as they grew from friends to lovers starting with a fake relationship. This is a beautiful heartwarming romance that has a lot of depth as it deals with complicated family relationships and health issues. Loved that Nash was always by Stephanie’s side and so supportive of her. The themes of hope and faith were emphasized throughout reminding us of the importance of our relationship with God and that despite our circumstances we can always depend on Him and His perfect timing. The author did a fabulous job of bringing in the deeper issues while keeping the story fun and entertaining. Looking forward to more in the series.
November 7, 2025
If you are looking for an adorable, holiday romance that you don’t want to put down - this is it. This is the one.
A few of the things I loved about it in no particular order:
- Cozy Christmas vibes (because DUH)
- Chronic illness rep
- The characters fully acknowledging and embracing the Hallmark tropes
- Adorable banter and sarcasm
- Horrifying ugly sweater
- The many ways family is shown (and grown) through friendship, broken marriages, adoption, and more - it was real and also beautiful
- Snowball seduction
- Real and relatable doubts and fears
- Spilled flour
- Nerf guns
A few of the things I loved about it in no particular order:
- Cozy Christmas vibes (because DUH)
- Chronic illness rep
- The characters fully acknowledging and embracing the Hallmark tropes
- Adorable banter and sarcasm
- Horrifying ugly sweater
- The many ways family is shown (and grown) through friendship, broken marriages, adoption, and more - it was real and also beautiful
- Snowball seduction
- Real and relatable doubts and fears
- Spilled flour
- Nerf guns
Read
December 10, 2025DNFing at 27% for now. Might come back to it. I'm just having a hard time getting into it. It feels like I'm coming into a book 4 or 5 instead of a book 1.
So MANY side characters and the way the author writes them feels as if we should already know all about them. Confusing. And I'm just not connecting with the main characters either. Idk might just be a me issue but I might come back we will see
So MANY side characters and the way the author writes them feels as if we should already know all about them. Confusing. And I'm just not connecting with the main characters either. Idk might just be a me issue but I might come back we will see
November 23, 2025
Terms and Traditions was a really fun book! I first heard about it a couple of months ago and immediately knew it was a book I wanted to read! It was definitely a fun Christmas book. Both Stephanie and Nash were good characters.
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series as they come out!
I’m looking forward to reading more books in this series as they come out!
October 20, 2025
Getting to read Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht's contemporary Christmas debut (twice!) has been a treat. The author has a knack for capturing friendships on the page that invite you into delightful banter with people who will have your back. As a result, it's wonderful to see Nash and Stephanie interact with their friends as part of the story. I appreciate that this story delves into some difficult family backgrounds while pointing to a future where God provides strength and possibilities for new beginnings.
Set during Christmas break with a host of Hallmark-like traditions, readers can enjoy getting to know some amazing characters who embody both generous and tough Christian love. This office romance is one that has been years in the making, so it's gratifying to see something real emerge in no time. If you're looking for a swoon-worthy hero who proves his commitment time and again, Terms and Traditions will have you breaking out the ugly Christmas sweaters while experiencing the healing power of God.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
Set during Christmas break with a host of Hallmark-like traditions, readers can enjoy getting to know some amazing characters who embody both generous and tough Christian love. This office romance is one that has been years in the making, so it's gratifying to see something real emerge in no time. If you're looking for a swoon-worthy hero who proves his commitment time and again, Terms and Traditions will have you breaking out the ugly Christmas sweaters while experiencing the healing power of God.
Review link: https://christianshelves.blogspot.com...
Many thanks to the author for providing me with a complimentary copy of this book for review consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 22, 2025
⭐️5
I ADORE this book! Nash and Stephanie had my heart from the beginning!
I loved Nash’s friendship with Emmett and Ryan and alllll the banter between them. I loved Nana and Gabe and all the family that supported Stephanie. And the whole friend group!🥹 this is one of my favorite Christmas books I’ve ever read🥰
Nash was AMAZING and such a gentleman. I loved his gentleness and patience toward Steph.
The faith content was also really really great, it truly made a difference in my life🥹
The fake floating to real dating was done so so well! I really love this book! Would 100% recommend 🥰
tropes:
🩵forced proximity
🩵boss x assistant
🩵fake dating
🩵great friendships
🩵faith-themes
🩵POTS rep
🩵he takes care of her
🩵dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
I ADORE this book! Nash and Stephanie had my heart from the beginning!
I loved Nash’s friendship with Emmett and Ryan and alllll the banter between them. I loved Nana and Gabe and all the family that supported Stephanie. And the whole friend group!🥹 this is one of my favorite Christmas books I’ve ever read🥰
Nash was AMAZING and such a gentleman. I loved his gentleness and patience toward Steph.
The faith content was also really really great, it truly made a difference in my life🥹
The fake floating to real dating was done so so well! I really love this book! Would 100% recommend 🥰
tropes:
🩵forced proximity
🩵boss x assistant
🩵fake dating
🩵great friendships
🩵faith-themes
🩵POTS rep
🩵he takes care of her
🩵dual pov
CONTENT:
- kisses only (closed door)
- no language
December 25, 2025
☃️Sweet & Surprisingly Poignant Christmas RomCom🌲
I think this is my first fake-dating trope RomCom, and I really liked Morgan Taylor Geisbrecht's version of it! For a comedy, this book addressed some more serious issues like family and relationship trauma, but I felt like it was really well done. The characters were very well developed, and I enjoyed getting to know them throughout the book.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like:
❄️Fake dating
❄️Determined MMC
❄️A FMC you can admire and relate to
❄️Characters that seem real, and have real issues
❄️Road trip
❄️Distinctly Christian story/moral characters
❄️Loyal, supportive, and funny friend groups (for both MC's) + some *antics* from the boys
I think this is my first fake-dating trope RomCom, and I really liked Morgan Taylor Geisbrecht's version of it! For a comedy, this book addressed some more serious issues like family and relationship trauma, but I felt like it was really well done. The characters were very well developed, and I enjoyed getting to know them throughout the book.
I would definitely recommend this book if you like:
❄️Fake dating
❄️Determined MMC
❄️A FMC you can admire and relate to
❄️Characters that seem real, and have real issues
❄️Road trip
❄️Distinctly Christian story/moral characters
❄️Loyal, supportive, and funny friend groups (for both MC's) + some *antics* from the boys
November 7, 2025
This was my first Morgan Taylor Geisbrecht book and it won’t be my last! This was a sweet romcom that takes place mostly over Christmas when Stephanie has to go to her dysfunctional family’s Christmas vacation at her estranged father’s cabin. She brings Nash, her friend and boss, with her to be her fake boyfriend. But Nash makes it clear, he wants it to be real. Things I loved:
- their open communication
- them working through problems together
- the fun and supportive friend groups
- Stephanie’s nana and supportive stepbrother Gabe
- the faith themes
Looking forward to the next book in this series!
- their open communication
- them working through problems together
- the fun and supportive friend groups
- Stephanie’s nana and supportive stepbrother Gabe
- the faith themes
Looking forward to the next book in this series!
January 12, 2026
I’ll start this by saying that if I liked the romance genre, this would likely be five stars.👌🏼Alas, it was a bit too much PDA for my romance-genre-allergic self. But my goodness, three cheers for the MATURE COMMUNICATION!! Morgan, please become a consultant with Hallmark. I also loved the banter, Liz, The Wise Guys group chat and friendship, the deep character development, and the author’s humorous writing style. It was light and happy and deep all at once. If you’re not allergic to the romance genre, I would recommend giving this a read.
November 9, 2025
Terms and Traditions by Morgan Taylor had me laughing out loud from beginning to end!
It’s the perfect closed-door Christian rom-com — full of family chaos, cozy Christmas vibes, sweet romance, and faith that anchors it all. I loved how the characters leaned on God through every twist and turn.
Morgan Taylor did such a wonderful job blending humor, heart, and hope in this story. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, faith-filled read to brighten your holiday season, this one’s a must
It’s the perfect closed-door Christian rom-com — full of family chaos, cozy Christmas vibes, sweet romance, and faith that anchors it all. I loved how the characters leaned on God through every twist and turn.
Morgan Taylor did such a wonderful job blending humor, heart, and hope in this story. If you’re looking for a lighthearted, faith-filled read to brighten your holiday season, this one’s a must
November 7, 2025
Terms and Traditions is the sweetest, holiday romance with lots of humor, charm, and tender moments. This was my first Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht read, but definitely not my last — consider me officially hooked! I love fake dating, millionaire romance, and the boss/assistant trope so I didn’t hesitate to apply for the ARC. Friends to lovers isn’t usually a favorite but Morgan hit it out of the park with this one. Nash and Stephanie are so endearing with equal parts playful banter and heartfelt connection. I love that they both had a secret crush on the other. Their chemistry and ease with one another made their transition to dating seem natural and inevitable.
Christmas with Stephanie’s family feels like a mix between a Hallmark movie and the Hunger Games - a little heartwarming and a little hazardous. Their competitive twist on holiday traditions was festive, fresh, and fun. The guy’s battle plan during the snowball war made me laugh out loud and grin like a fool.
Nash was so gentle and affectionate towards Stephanie. I love how he made his feelings clear from the beginning. These two didn’t play games with one another and they didn’t give up when things got hard. I loved how openly they communicated - sharing their feelings, being vulnerable about their hurts, and working through problems together.
Nash is flirty and teasing but also comforting and protective. His confidence and steady presence make him the perfect safe place for Stephanie. Stephanie likes Nash for who he is, not what he has. I love how her people adopted Nash as their own. Both of their friend groups are wonderful and I hope to get to know them more in future books.
Terms and Transitions is a delightful mix of flirty fun, honest emotion, and all the cozy feels. I loved everything about this book! Do yourself a favor and put it on top of your TBR.
Thank you Morgan for the ARC! all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Favorites:
🩵 Nash’s proposal to date for real
🩵 The Wise Men group chat
🩵 Nash calls her darlin’
🩵 Addams Family karaoke
🩵 Snowball war + snowball seduction
🩵 Twitterpated
🩵 Pantry Romance
🩵 Fifteen-Dollar-Gift Game
🩵 Christmas gift exchange
🩵 Gabe’s phone call to Nash
🩵 The epilogue
🩵 Nash’s confidence and flirty comments
🩵 Steph’s friends and their men
Christmas with Stephanie’s family feels like a mix between a Hallmark movie and the Hunger Games - a little heartwarming and a little hazardous. Their competitive twist on holiday traditions was festive, fresh, and fun. The guy’s battle plan during the snowball war made me laugh out loud and grin like a fool.
Nash was so gentle and affectionate towards Stephanie. I love how he made his feelings clear from the beginning. These two didn’t play games with one another and they didn’t give up when things got hard. I loved how openly they communicated - sharing their feelings, being vulnerable about their hurts, and working through problems together.
Nash is flirty and teasing but also comforting and protective. His confidence and steady presence make him the perfect safe place for Stephanie. Stephanie likes Nash for who he is, not what he has. I love how her people adopted Nash as their own. Both of their friend groups are wonderful and I hope to get to know them more in future books.
Terms and Transitions is a delightful mix of flirty fun, honest emotion, and all the cozy feels. I loved everything about this book! Do yourself a favor and put it on top of your TBR.
Thank you Morgan for the ARC! all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Favorites:
🩵 Nash’s proposal to date for real
🩵 The Wise Men group chat
🩵 Nash calls her darlin’
🩵 Addams Family karaoke
🩵 Snowball war + snowball seduction
🩵 Twitterpated
🩵 Pantry Romance
🩵 Fifteen-Dollar-Gift Game
🩵 Christmas gift exchange
🩵 Gabe’s phone call to Nash
🩵 The epilogue
🩵 Nash’s confidence and flirty comments
🩵 Steph’s friends and their men
December 30, 2025
I’ve been on the hunt for more sweet romance books. I saw this one recommended on Instagram and/or YouTube and thought it sounded like a nice, cozy Christmas read.
Stephanie has a tumultuous relationship with her family, particularly her father. Nevertheless, she agrees to spend Christmas with him and her half-siblings as per tradition. To avoid her father’s matchmaking, she asks her boss, Nash, if he will agree to be her fake boyfriend for the holiday. Nash is more than happy to oblige as he’s been harboring feelings for Stephanie. The only catch: Nash is Stephanie’s father’s top rival. Already disliked by most of her family, Christmas celebrations grow even more complicated. But at least she’s got Nash at her side helping her through it.
I enjoyed my time with this book, although I do wish the conflict between Stephanie and her father had played out differently. He read somewhat like a cartoon villain with his speech. But it was worth it for the refreshing lack of spice scenes to dodge. I liked Stephanie and Nash’s dynamic and the clear and healthy boundaries they set for their situation. I also like that they had a shared faith to lean on as they dealt with the complicated realities of their families.
Stephanie has a tumultuous relationship with her family, particularly her father. Nevertheless, she agrees to spend Christmas with him and her half-siblings as per tradition. To avoid her father’s matchmaking, she asks her boss, Nash, if he will agree to be her fake boyfriend for the holiday. Nash is more than happy to oblige as he’s been harboring feelings for Stephanie. The only catch: Nash is Stephanie’s father’s top rival. Already disliked by most of her family, Christmas celebrations grow even more complicated. But at least she’s got Nash at her side helping her through it.
I enjoyed my time with this book, although I do wish the conflict between Stephanie and her father had played out differently. He read somewhat like a cartoon villain with his speech. But it was worth it for the refreshing lack of spice scenes to dodge. I liked Stephanie and Nash’s dynamic and the clear and healthy boundaries they set for their situation. I also like that they had a shared faith to lean on as they dealt with the complicated realities of their families.
December 16, 2025
IG Review: https://www.instagram.com/p/DSU1xO0ke...
4.5 stars. I was not expecting a Christmas romance to come in and wow me quite like this one did. Honestly when I first heard about this book, I didn’t even know it was Christmas-y, I just saw the wintry vibes on the cover!
Stephanie has been friends with Nash for a couple years. She’s his PA and he runs a multimillion dollar company. Casual. In fact, it’s all pretty outwardly casual until at their company’s annual Christmas party Steph asks Nash if he’ll be her fake boyfriend for her family‘s Christmas get together.
Stephanie and Nash both have a lot of family trauma. An absentee mother, a mother crippled by addiction and one narcissistic estranged father. Oh, and that would be the father hosting the family Christmas get together. And by the way, he runs his own million dollar business that directly competes with Nash’s.
This book had so much that I adored. Very real feeling characters working through their various anxieties and past trauma, hard conversations that bring connection, beautiful friend groups, a chaotic big family holiday, a stable and gentle MMC (with glasses and curly dark hair amen), friends to lovers. All that PLUS a beautiful message of faith woven throughout.
It never felt preach or cheesy but the Lord was at the center of their story and He was called upon many times! (Another amen!)
I loved this book and I cannot wait for more books in this world of characters!!
Spice level: closed door
4.5 stars. I was not expecting a Christmas romance to come in and wow me quite like this one did. Honestly when I first heard about this book, I didn’t even know it was Christmas-y, I just saw the wintry vibes on the cover!
Stephanie has been friends with Nash for a couple years. She’s his PA and he runs a multimillion dollar company. Casual. In fact, it’s all pretty outwardly casual until at their company’s annual Christmas party Steph asks Nash if he’ll be her fake boyfriend for her family‘s Christmas get together.
Stephanie and Nash both have a lot of family trauma. An absentee mother, a mother crippled by addiction and one narcissistic estranged father. Oh, and that would be the father hosting the family Christmas get together. And by the way, he runs his own million dollar business that directly competes with Nash’s.
This book had so much that I adored. Very real feeling characters working through their various anxieties and past trauma, hard conversations that bring connection, beautiful friend groups, a chaotic big family holiday, a stable and gentle MMC (with glasses and curly dark hair amen), friends to lovers. All that PLUS a beautiful message of faith woven throughout.
It never felt preach or cheesy but the Lord was at the center of their story and He was called upon many times! (Another amen!)
I loved this book and I cannot wait for more books in this world of characters!!
Spice level: closed door
November 4, 2025
This was a wonderful story that lured me in with the fake dating your boss at Christmas trope, but kept me turning the pages with its fantastic chemistry and communication between the MCs, touching heart baring moments, and continuous pursuit in seeking and surrendering to the Lord.
I loved how Nash knew when to be flirty and teasing and when to be gentle with Stephanie. He was a constant support in the midst of chaos and emotional upheaval.
Underneath the carefully crafted facade, Stephanie is just a heartbroken girl who feels like she’s not enough and who wants to be chosen and loved.
This story and these two filled my heart with joy as they encouraged and supported one another, as they took part in fun family traditions, and as they chose to fight for each other no matter what.
A heartwarming and hope filled Christmas delight.
Thank you to Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht for the copy. All opinions are my own.
I loved how Nash knew when to be flirty and teasing and when to be gentle with Stephanie. He was a constant support in the midst of chaos and emotional upheaval.
Underneath the carefully crafted facade, Stephanie is just a heartbroken girl who feels like she’s not enough and who wants to be chosen and loved.
This story and these two filled my heart with joy as they encouraged and supported one another, as they took part in fun family traditions, and as they chose to fight for each other no matter what.
A heartwarming and hope filled Christmas delight.
Thank you to Morgan Taylor Giesbrecht for the copy. All opinions are my own.
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