Love and Lights

by Kasey Kennedy

Chloe Garland is an energetic and outgoing special events coordinator who works for the county park district. She's planned the county's first bus trip to Chicago to see the Christmas lights and shop in the Christkindlmarket.

Not only is the future of her career on the line, but there is a very handsome participant along for the ride - Ray Toft.

Chloe's had a crush on Ray for years. Could this be her opportunity to share her feelings with Ray, or will she be too focused on the success of the trip and miss her chance?

Winter Getaway Romance Series
From frosty city nights to cozy cabin getaways, winter is the season for sweet surprises and swoony first kisses. Join the Sweet Kisses Club for heartwarming love stories that celebrate small-town charm, city visits, and winter’s holiday magic.

81 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 30, 2025

About the author

Kasey Kennedy loves reading books and writing the stories in her head. She has a B.A. in English from Southern Illinois University; is a member of the Chicago Writers Association; Chicago North Romance Writers Association; and a 2021 participant in StoryStudio Chicago’s Novel in a Year program.

Reviews

[Patty Baumeister · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Book Review
Love and Lights
A Novella Written By Kasey Kennedy
Fiction - Romance
Published December 2025
81 Pages
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This is a sweet unexpected romance between two acquaintances. Chloe and Ray knew each other in high school. Each had a secret crush on the other. A romance starts to blossom after they literally run into each other.

This quick read is perfect for readers who enjoy a closed door opposites attract romance.

“Exploring may be my word for the new year. Exploring new ideas, exploring fresh places in Illinois and the surrounding states. And most importantly, exploring a relationship with Ray.”

[Shannon Binegar-Foster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Chloe has a lot riding on the Parks and Recreation’s first bus trip. Quite simple she needs to sell 28 more tickets or the event is cancelled. She enlists the help of Ray, her crush of many years. This was such a delightful, fun holiday romance. I am from the area so it is always nice to have books hit close to home. I look forward to reading the rest of the series. I voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book provided by bookfunnel.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely read for the festive season

Chloe and Ray are so adorably awkward, especially around each other. They both lack self confidence and doubt themselves and how worthy they are of the others love, but they see nothing but strength and good things in the one they love and have loved for a long time. It is finally their time, their love deep and true.
It's a sweet and heartwarming read for the New Year.
I read this on Kindle Unlimited.

[Cristy Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Quick, feel-good, clean fall read

This was a cute story of a couple who’ve liked each other for a while but didn’t think the other even saw them. I loved the pairing of the quieter Ray with the “live life big” Chloe. The setting in the. Christmas market made we want to go shopping and even the snowfall gave a good backdrop. Kasey Kennedy’s short stories are always sweet, one-night reads and this one delivered a sweet swoon despite the short length.

[Tina · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a great story showcasing small towns, community and family. The characters made me smile and I can't wait to meet the rest of the family later this year in a new series.
I received a free copy through BookFunnel and the review and opinions are my own.

[Chris · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the book, especially Ray.
A nice cozy romance.