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A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays
A Nutcracker Retelling
“We were meant to be a blip—one star in the midst of an expansive night sky. Burning fast and bright, until it dimmed completely, and we moved on from each other.”
Claire Silverman has always been enchanted by winter in New York. Blankets of freshly fallen snow, twinkling lights, and the promise of new beginnings just around the corner make the city feel like it’s wrapped in magic. This year feels no different, until a series of unexpected interactions have her past colliding with her present. Now Claire’s face to face with the man she never planned to see again, but he may be the answer to holding on to everything she’s ever wanted.
Captain and forward for the New York Crowns, Everett Nuttall isn’t ready to accept that his hockey career might soon come to an end. At thirty-two, retirement should be far in the distance, but a nagging shoulder injury says otherwise. Attempting to run from the inevitable, he goes out for a drink and finds Claire, the stunning onyx-haired ballerina from his past. From the moment he lays eyes on her, his night takes a turn neither of them saw coming.
A flash of pink and one night together changes everything they thought they knew, leading them on an adventure through the dreamy town of Sugarplum Park. Forced to get to know each other deeper than ever before, will they be able to find their way back home, or will they discover the magic that comes with second chances?
A Dance Of Sugarplums and Power Plays is the first interconnected standalone novel in the Fairytale Season series. Readers won’t want to miss this modern Nutcracker retelling about a ballerina and a hockey player who get the second chance they never expected.
“We were meant to be a blip—one star in the midst of an expansive night sky. Burning fast and bright, until it dimmed completely, and we moved on from each other.”
Claire Silverman has always been enchanted by winter in New York. Blankets of freshly fallen snow, twinkling lights, and the promise of new beginnings just around the corner make the city feel like it’s wrapped in magic. This year feels no different, until a series of unexpected interactions have her past colliding with her present. Now Claire’s face to face with the man she never planned to see again, but he may be the answer to holding on to everything she’s ever wanted.
Captain and forward for the New York Crowns, Everett Nuttall isn’t ready to accept that his hockey career might soon come to an end. At thirty-two, retirement should be far in the distance, but a nagging shoulder injury says otherwise. Attempting to run from the inevitable, he goes out for a drink and finds Claire, the stunning onyx-haired ballerina from his past. From the moment he lays eyes on her, his night takes a turn neither of them saw coming.
A flash of pink and one night together changes everything they thought they knew, leading them on an adventure through the dreamy town of Sugarplum Park. Forced to get to know each other deeper than ever before, will they be able to find their way back home, or will they discover the magic that comes with second chances?
A Dance Of Sugarplums and Power Plays is the first interconnected standalone novel in the Fairytale Season series. Readers won’t want to miss this modern Nutcracker retelling about a ballerina and a hockey player who get the second chance they never expected.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 4, 2025
14 people are currently reading
78 people want to read
About the author
Jess Christine
5 books106 followersJess Christine is a speech therapist turned contemporary romance author who writes cotton candy smut: sweet, fluffy, and utterly irresistible. With low angst and high swoon, Jess crafts stories that feel like the perfect indulgence. Readers will quickly be lost in the warmth of unforgettable characters, light-hearted humor, delicious spice, and feel-good romance.
Jess resides in Georgia with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite TV shows, spending time with her friends and family, and getting lost in love stories.
For more information, please visit authorjesschristine.com or follow Jess on Instagram @authorjesschristine.
Jess resides in Georgia with her husband and two children. When she’s not writing, she enjoys binge-watching her favorite TV shows, spending time with her friends and family, and getting lost in love stories.
For more information, please visit authorjesschristine.com or follow Jess on Instagram @authorjesschristine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
November 27, 2025
I have never been a fan of The Nutcracker but I think I might be now. I love this story and the second chance romance. It gives a new light to second chances and magic that I've never read before.
Here you follow a ballerina and a hockey player who never gave themselves a real chance.
I loved the world this other created and how seamlessly everything fit in. I truly enjoyed how the simple things brought so much to the story. I don't want to give too much away but I think this is a story worth reading!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
Here you follow a ballerina and a hockey player who never gave themselves a real chance.
I loved the world this other created and how seamlessly everything fit in. I truly enjoyed how the simple things brought so much to the story. I don't want to give too much away but I think this is a story worth reading!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
November 19, 2025
I can hardly type for the tears streaming down my face. Infinity stars. Jess Christine, this is the best Nutcracker Retelling and I’ve been obsessed with the nutcracker since a little girl.
Well done. Well, freaking, done.
Well done. Well, freaking, done.
November 28, 2025
This was such a perfect Christmas and Nutcracker story. I've seen the ballet once or so but never a huge fan but I loved this retelling. Claire and Everett are friends with benefits, minus the friends. He's a professional hockey player and she's a ballet dancer. They stop their arrangement when he gets the call he's being traded. Both want more but don't say anything, wanting to keep their careers first. Four years go by and Everett gets traded back to NYC and they run into each other and those old feelings come rushing back. They spend the night together and wake up in Sugarplum Park. They need to figure out a way home. While in Sugarplum Park, their relationship grows. Can they make it home and will their relationship still be the same?
November 23, 2025
“I crawl back under the freshly changed sheets and melt into his embrace, certain in this moment that no matter what happens, I never want to know a world where he and I don’t exist together.”
✔️small town holiday romance
✔️nutcracker retelling
✔️hockey player x ballerina
✔️second chance
✔️forced proximity
✔️magical realism
✔️no 3rd act breakup
This book was so much fun, and if life (and work) didn’t get in the way I would have finished this in one day. This is the best Nutcracker retelling that I have read, and I love this author’s writing style. It’s very spicy, has a lot of heart, and though I knew the basic story beats because I am familiar with the ballet, there is enough new to keep it interesting and I really enjoyed this author’s interpretation of the source material. The main characters are so well matched and I like them individually as well as together.
Claire (FMC) and Everett (MMC) were hookup buddies (not friends with benefits, they weren’t friends) a couple of years ago, but when Everett was traded to another team he left and they lost contact (though he definitely broke the rules and caught feelings for her). Now, in the present day, we watch their story unfold and mirror the story of the Nutcracker. One cab driver, a crystal (that might be magic), a power outage, and a hookup change their lives for the better, forever. They both have major career things in the works, he has an injury and she is going to perform her dream role, but they find themselves stuck in a seemingly fictional town with no way to get home.
Though the spice is definitely not a slow burn (it starts in the prologue, y’all) the relationship is a slow burn and I appreciate that there isn’t a third act breakup. It takes a minute for the FMC to catch up to where the MMC is feelings-wise, but the relationship development feels so natural and the pacing makes sense. This is a fun, sweet and spicy holiday book that I look forward to re-reading in the future!
*Thank you so much to the author (Jess Christine) and her team for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
✔️small town holiday romance
✔️nutcracker retelling
✔️hockey player x ballerina
✔️second chance
✔️forced proximity
✔️magical realism
✔️no 3rd act breakup
This book was so much fun, and if life (and work) didn’t get in the way I would have finished this in one day. This is the best Nutcracker retelling that I have read, and I love this author’s writing style. It’s very spicy, has a lot of heart, and though I knew the basic story beats because I am familiar with the ballet, there is enough new to keep it interesting and I really enjoyed this author’s interpretation of the source material. The main characters are so well matched and I like them individually as well as together.
Claire (FMC) and Everett (MMC) were hookup buddies (not friends with benefits, they weren’t friends) a couple of years ago, but when Everett was traded to another team he left and they lost contact (though he definitely broke the rules and caught feelings for her). Now, in the present day, we watch their story unfold and mirror the story of the Nutcracker. One cab driver, a crystal (that might be magic), a power outage, and a hookup change their lives for the better, forever. They both have major career things in the works, he has an injury and she is going to perform her dream role, but they find themselves stuck in a seemingly fictional town with no way to get home.
Though the spice is definitely not a slow burn (it starts in the prologue, y’all) the relationship is a slow burn and I appreciate that there isn’t a third act breakup. It takes a minute for the FMC to catch up to where the MMC is feelings-wise, but the relationship development feels so natural and the pacing makes sense. This is a fun, sweet and spicy holiday book that I look forward to re-reading in the future!
*Thank you so much to the author (Jess Christine) and her team for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
December 3, 2025
There are no enough words in the English language to describe my absolute adoration of not only this story, but anything @authorjesschristine writes! When we met at the damsel market, I saw her advertising this story and literally yelled “SMUTTY CHRISTMAS HOCKEY!!!”. I LOVE hockey and what girl doesn’t love a good smut story?! This one is absolute PERFECTION. I’ve tried to read other retellings before and I was not a fan, but this one is so artfully done. The characters are sassy, sweet and so relatable. The spice is on point and starts from literally the very first page 🌶️. It is the perfect, grown up Christmas story with drama, fun and my favorite sport, hockey! This comes out on THURSDAY and yall cannot miss this 😍🏒🩰 #christmasread #cottoncandysmut #newrelease #indieauthor
December 4, 2025
Loved the plot and general theme of the story. I wanted so much more of Sugarplum Park, though. I want this made into a hallmark movie because it just is so sweet (and spicy which maybe not for hallmark). Good holiday read for sure!
December 4, 2025
I wasn’t sure what to expect in a Nutcracker romance retelling but I knew if Jess Christine wrote it, I needed to read it and I’m so glad I did. From the start, I hoped Claire and Everett would find their way back to each other and I looked forward to reading their steamy and romantic path to falling in love. What I didn’t expect was the pleasant surprise of all of the magic Claire and Everett experience and how it brings them closer together and introduces them to people who may become their closest friends for life. Thank you to author Jess Christine and Good Girl Author Services for the opportunity to read this early! It truly was my pleasure.
December 5, 2025
Loved this as a Nutcracker retelling. It was sweet AB’s just a bit spicy. I adored the idea that he was a hockey player, and her a ballerina. Such an original take. The story was so written that I could this playing out in my head as I reads, and I love that for a book. That tells me the author put in hectic time and attention. AB’s the characters themselves were wonderful. Such a great book, holiday read. Romantic, spicy, and just perfect for the holidays.
December 3, 2025
A great retelling of the Nutcracker. The second change romance for Claire and Everett who started on "spicy" page 1 who went their separate ways and now find themselves back together learning more about each other than they thought they would. This is a wonderful Christmas story! Jess hit it out of the park again.
December 5, 2025
I wasn’t 100% sure what this book would be about, but I was honestly impressed! A ballerina, a hockey player, nutcracker, magic, say less. & started right off the bat with a lil spice 🥵 what a great way to start the Christmas season!
November 29, 2025
This is by far my favorite book by Jess Christine! I wasn’t sure what to expect from a Nutcracker retelling, but it turned out to be absolutely magical. From the very first page, I was pulled into a world that felt like living inside a snow globe—sparkling, enchanting, and just as sweet as all the treats from the Nutcracker itself. I couldn’t put it down! Jess has written a beautiful love story while seamlessly weaving in the wonder and charm of the original tale. It’s everything you want in a Christmas romance, full of festivity and heartwarming joy.
January 3, 2026
Corny
December 13, 2025
OHHHHHH. MY. GOSH YALL.
I am absolutely begging you to read this book. Everett is actually my dream man, HOLY SHIT JESS. I fell IMMEDIATELY page 1 with him. This man is BEYOND perfection. An absolute DREAM. His personality, his golden retriever x bad boy energy tho… like oh my gawd🙂↔️
MY GIRL CLARIE. Listen, I’m just about as obsessed with her. This banter, this flirt, this retelling into modern day? It’s an absolute Christmas masterpiece of a read.
This storyline was SO FUN! And so different and refreshing!!!!! As much as the main characters were stressing, I was absolutely enjoying the ride. I don’t wanna keep talking cause I don’t wanna spoil anything my gosh yall…
I’m so sorry Tanner… you are my man, my first love.. BUT EVERETT IS MY MANNNNNNNNNN. like I could not stop referring to that fanart of him, girl 🥵🥵🥵 Holy Cotton Candy what?!? 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
Jess spoiled me with a teaser after our interview and gave me a little run down of this storyline but like.. gurl, I am so beyond obsessed with this book.
I am absolutely begging you to read this book. Everett is actually my dream man, HOLY SHIT JESS. I fell IMMEDIATELY page 1 with him. This man is BEYOND perfection. An absolute DREAM. His personality, his golden retriever x bad boy energy tho… like oh my gawd🙂↔️
MY GIRL CLARIE. Listen, I’m just about as obsessed with her. This banter, this flirt, this retelling into modern day? It’s an absolute Christmas masterpiece of a read.
This storyline was SO FUN! And so different and refreshing!!!!! As much as the main characters were stressing, I was absolutely enjoying the ride. I don’t wanna keep talking cause I don’t wanna spoil anything my gosh yall…
I’m so sorry Tanner… you are my man, my first love.. BUT EVERETT IS MY MANNNNNNNNNN. like I could not stop referring to that fanart of him, girl 🥵🥵🥵 Holy Cotton Candy what?!? 🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵🥵
Jess spoiled me with a teaser after our interview and gave me a little run down of this storyline but like.. gurl, I am so beyond obsessed with this book.
December 2, 2025
Cozy, magical, and romantic - Nutcracker meets hockey in the sweetest second-chance love story.
It’s a perfect cozy holiday read, one that blends two seemingly distant worlds, hockey romance and the mystical lore of Christmas, into a Nutcracker retelling that feels both fresh and delightfully whimsical. The result is an entirely new combination that captures the magic of winter without ever feeling derivative.
Claire, a 29-year-old ballet dancer, stands at the heart of this tale. She’s the kind of heroine who feels real in a way that’s almost startling: driven, solitary, and quietly vulnerable. Outside of her family, she doesn’t keep many people close - a painfully relatable reality for anyone navigating their late twenties while chasing a lifelong dream. For Claire, that dream is clear: dancing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Everything else - dating, friendships, even her own social life - comes second to the stage.
Everett, on the other hand, is a 33-year-old professional hockey player in the twilight of his career. When he returns to his home city for a rivalry game, he’s forced to confront the unresolved tension of running into Claire - his former friends-with-benefits. He may initially appear to be just another cocky jock, but the story quickly digs deeper, revealing a man who’s quietly hoping for a second chance with the only woman who ever felt like more than a passing thrill.
The turning point arrives in the form of a bizarre, shimmering night of déjà vu that pulls Claire and Everett into a fantastical town that feels plucked straight from a Hallmark movie. Bright, colorful, and brimming with Christmas cheer, this setting transforms the story into a warm, sugar-spun escape. Reading it next to the fire with a hockey game in the background was immersive and magical.
Within this glittering bubble, Claire and Everett find a version of themselves that NYC never allowed: playful, serendipitous, and open to the romantic possibilities that have always hovered between them. Though their relationship began with all heat and little clarity, this enchanted detour slows them down just long enough to rebuild something meaningful. And when the spark returns, it does so with the delicious inevitability of a second-chance romance done right.
ADoS&PP is a reminder that sometimes the right person arrives at the wrong time - and sometimes, if the universe is feeling generous, you might just get whisked into a Christmas town long enough to fix that. A charming, cozy, and utterly original winter escape.
It’s a perfect cozy holiday read, one that blends two seemingly distant worlds, hockey romance and the mystical lore of Christmas, into a Nutcracker retelling that feels both fresh and delightfully whimsical. The result is an entirely new combination that captures the magic of winter without ever feeling derivative.
Claire, a 29-year-old ballet dancer, stands at the heart of this tale. She’s the kind of heroine who feels real in a way that’s almost startling: driven, solitary, and quietly vulnerable. Outside of her family, she doesn’t keep many people close - a painfully relatable reality for anyone navigating their late twenties while chasing a lifelong dream. For Claire, that dream is clear: dancing the role of the Sugar Plum Fairy. Everything else - dating, friendships, even her own social life - comes second to the stage.
Everett, on the other hand, is a 33-year-old professional hockey player in the twilight of his career. When he returns to his home city for a rivalry game, he’s forced to confront the unresolved tension of running into Claire - his former friends-with-benefits. He may initially appear to be just another cocky jock, but the story quickly digs deeper, revealing a man who’s quietly hoping for a second chance with the only woman who ever felt like more than a passing thrill.
The turning point arrives in the form of a bizarre, shimmering night of déjà vu that pulls Claire and Everett into a fantastical town that feels plucked straight from a Hallmark movie. Bright, colorful, and brimming with Christmas cheer, this setting transforms the story into a warm, sugar-spun escape. Reading it next to the fire with a hockey game in the background was immersive and magical.
Within this glittering bubble, Claire and Everett find a version of themselves that NYC never allowed: playful, serendipitous, and open to the romantic possibilities that have always hovered between them. Though their relationship began with all heat and little clarity, this enchanted detour slows them down just long enough to rebuild something meaningful. And when the spark returns, it does so with the delicious inevitability of a second-chance romance done right.
ADoS&PP is a reminder that sometimes the right person arrives at the wrong time - and sometimes, if the universe is feeling generous, you might just get whisked into a Christmas town long enough to fix that. A charming, cozy, and utterly original winter escape.
December 13, 2025
Ya’ll, this is my first festive read of the season and I ADORED IT so much! This is the first book in Jess Christine’s second series, featuring sports romance and magical realism. If you’ve been here for a minute, you know how much I adore her first series, A Romance Rehab. After reading ADOSAPP, I can already tell I will love this one just as much if not more.
ADOSAPP is a spicy retelling of The Nutcracker with a sports romance twist. Claire Silverman is a ballerina whose dream is to play the role of the Sugarplum Fairy in The Nutcracker on Christmas. Everett Nuttall is a Hockey player for the Crowns who is facing a major career decision. They have fantastic chemistry in and out of the bedroom. Their relationship has been surface level up until they find themselves in a situation where they must work together to get back home in close proximity.
Their feelings might not be able to stay on the surface for too long.
Let me just say that this book felt like a super cozy evening, cuddled on the couch with a hot chocolate while watching a Hallmark movie. It was filled with Christmas spirit & activities, sweets, and heartwarming relationships. I adored every single thing about this story and the characters! Claire and Everett were too cute! Their little sarcastic comments made me laugh out loud. While their relationship development made me melt on multiple occasions. I loved that he was the golden retriever and she was the black cat. It was a nice balance! Sugarplum Lane reminded me of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls. I wanted to jump right on in! Not only that but the friendships in this story were so sweet! I loved it! Dare I say, that Everett Nuttall might be my favorite MMC Jess has created so far...👀
If you're in the mood for a Christmas themed sports romance that will make you melt and crave some Christmas activities, this is the book for you!
ADOSAPP is a spicy retelling of The Nutcracker with a sports romance twist. Claire Silverman is a ballerina whose dream is to play the role of the Sugarplum Fairy in The Nutcracker on Christmas. Everett Nuttall is a Hockey player for the Crowns who is facing a major career decision. They have fantastic chemistry in and out of the bedroom. Their relationship has been surface level up until they find themselves in a situation where they must work together to get back home in close proximity.
Their feelings might not be able to stay on the surface for too long.
Let me just say that this book felt like a super cozy evening, cuddled on the couch with a hot chocolate while watching a Hallmark movie. It was filled with Christmas spirit & activities, sweets, and heartwarming relationships. I adored every single thing about this story and the characters! Claire and Everett were too cute! Their little sarcastic comments made me laugh out loud. While their relationship development made me melt on multiple occasions. I loved that he was the golden retriever and she was the black cat. It was a nice balance! Sugarplum Lane reminded me of Stars Hollow from Gilmore Girls. I wanted to jump right on in! Not only that but the friendships in this story were so sweet! I loved it! Dare I say, that Everett Nuttall might be my favorite MMC Jess has created so far...👀
If you're in the mood for a Christmas themed sports romance that will make you melt and crave some Christmas activities, this is the book for you!
December 5, 2025
𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸: A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays (Book 1)
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jess Christine
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Fairytale Seasons
𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Everett Nuttall & Claire Silverman
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
- Nutcracker Retelling
- Hockey Player x Ballerina
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
- Small Town Christmas
- Magical Realism
- Spice
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
I really enjoyed A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays by Jess Christine! This nutcracker retelling is a cozy, magical holiday romance that will leave you feeling all the feels. I was so excited to read this new style of writing from her, and it totally delivered!
Everett and Claire's story is everything - the spice starts from the very beginning, and their chemistry is palpable. When Everett and Claire reconnect after 4 years apart the sparks are flying!
What I loved most is when Everett and Claire wake up in Sugarplums Park, they’re transported to a world of Christmas cheer and possibilities. They're playful, open, and vulnerable, and it's beautiful to see them find a version of themselves they never would have before.
This story is a reminder that sometimes, the right person arrives at the wrong time, and sometimes you just need a little bit of Christmas magic to make it work. Jess Christine's writing is enchanting, and this book is the perfect holiday treat. It's cozy, it's romantic, and it's full of heart.
If you're looking for a cozy read that will leave you feeling merry and bright, look no further! A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays is a holiday romance perfection. Highly recommend!
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
𝗔𝘂𝘁𝗵𝗼𝗿: Jess Christine
𝗦𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝘀: Fairytale Seasons
𝗠𝗮𝗶𝗻 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: Everett Nuttall & Claire Silverman
𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀:
- Nutcracker Retelling
- Hockey Player x Ballerina
- Second Chance
- Forced Proximity
- Small Town Christmas
- Magical Realism
- Spice
𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄:
I really enjoyed A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays by Jess Christine! This nutcracker retelling is a cozy, magical holiday romance that will leave you feeling all the feels. I was so excited to read this new style of writing from her, and it totally delivered!
Everett and Claire's story is everything - the spice starts from the very beginning, and their chemistry is palpable. When Everett and Claire reconnect after 4 years apart the sparks are flying!
What I loved most is when Everett and Claire wake up in Sugarplums Park, they’re transported to a world of Christmas cheer and possibilities. They're playful, open, and vulnerable, and it's beautiful to see them find a version of themselves they never would have before.
This story is a reminder that sometimes, the right person arrives at the wrong time, and sometimes you just need a little bit of Christmas magic to make it work. Jess Christine's writing is enchanting, and this book is the perfect holiday treat. It's cozy, it's romantic, and it's full of heart.
If you're looking for a cozy read that will leave you feeling merry and bright, look no further! A Dance of Sugarplums and Power Plays is a holiday romance perfection. Highly recommend!
𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘬 𝘺𝘰𝘶 𝘵𝘰 𝘑𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘦𝘈𝘙𝘊 𝘪𝘯 𝘦𝘹𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘮𝘺 𝘩𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘵 𝘳𝘦𝘷𝘪𝘦𝘸.
November 25, 2025
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
ARC Review
— although I read every version of this book, my review is of the final draft —
I am absolutely honoured to have been chosen to Alpha read this Christmas novel by the amazing Jess Christine. Seeing how a story is created and evolves is truly remarkable.
This book perfectly fits in her genre of “Cotton Candy Smut”. It starts very spicy, with even more spice sprinkled throughout that could make anyone blush - BUT - it’s such a fluffy and cute rom-com.
I absolutely adore the banter between the MC’s. You get some of that sarcastic “enemies-to-lovers” sass without any true hatred.
The details of this story were beautiful. I truly enjoyed the relationship between the FMC and her sister (reminds me a lot of me and my sister). I also loved the tiny Christmas details like the decorations on the tree and the festive mugs their holiday drinks were served in. She clearly took the time to really build the perfect Christmas setting for this story!
This is Jess’s first book with the aspect of “magical realism” and it was just so perfect! I feel that Christmas is the perfect time to try adding in some magic into a story, between the love, the joy, the sparkling snow, and the number of Christmas stories to draw inspiration from (for example - The Nutcracker), it just doesn’t seem as unrealistic to experience something a little extra *special*.
This story is like a cozy Christmas movie with the perfect amount of spice, and a tatted up, pierced, hockey player MMC - what more could you want this holiday season??
Release Date: December 4, 2025
3 🌶️
ARC Review
— although I read every version of this book, my review is of the final draft —
I am absolutely honoured to have been chosen to Alpha read this Christmas novel by the amazing Jess Christine. Seeing how a story is created and evolves is truly remarkable.
This book perfectly fits in her genre of “Cotton Candy Smut”. It starts very spicy, with even more spice sprinkled throughout that could make anyone blush - BUT - it’s such a fluffy and cute rom-com.
I absolutely adore the banter between the MC’s. You get some of that sarcastic “enemies-to-lovers” sass without any true hatred.
The details of this story were beautiful. I truly enjoyed the relationship between the FMC and her sister (reminds me a lot of me and my sister). I also loved the tiny Christmas details like the decorations on the tree and the festive mugs their holiday drinks were served in. She clearly took the time to really build the perfect Christmas setting for this story!
This is Jess’s first book with the aspect of “magical realism” and it was just so perfect! I feel that Christmas is the perfect time to try adding in some magic into a story, between the love, the joy, the sparkling snow, and the number of Christmas stories to draw inspiration from (for example - The Nutcracker), it just doesn’t seem as unrealistic to experience something a little extra *special*.
This story is like a cozy Christmas movie with the perfect amount of spice, and a tatted up, pierced, hockey player MMC - what more could you want this holiday season??
Release Date: December 4, 2025
December 1, 2025
Truly enjoyed this retelling!
This story follows Everett and Claire as they reconnect and try to discover if giving their relationship a second chance is worth it. Everett is the hockey star whose only sweet spot is Claire. Claire is the ballerina who has only ever dreamed of one thing, dancing as the Sugarplum Fairy in her company's ballet.
After a night of strange occurrences, they wake up in a new place, with a new life. Is it a dream or can it actually become the reality they each have secretly hoped for?
First, let me start with, I don't actually know why hockey romances are a thing. They just aren't for me. I picked this book up because I am a huge fan of retellings. This one was no different. Sure there is some hockey stuff in there, but The Nutcracker bits are the heart and soul of this story and I LOVED the way it is portrayed.
When I picked up this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I was so pleasantly surprised! The characters each had their own amount of depth, the spice was THERE, and the fun Nutcracker add-ins showed a level of understanding to the ballet that I adored. I have enjoyed the ballet for years and was so enraptured in the story, I missed a lot of hints in there, just like Claire.
I am so glad I gave this book a chance. If you are a hockey-romance fan, a retelling fan, or a holiday romance fan, I highly recommend you give this book a chance!
Though this is a standalone book, it is the first book in a new retelling series from the author and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
This story follows Everett and Claire as they reconnect and try to discover if giving their relationship a second chance is worth it. Everett is the hockey star whose only sweet spot is Claire. Claire is the ballerina who has only ever dreamed of one thing, dancing as the Sugarplum Fairy in her company's ballet.
After a night of strange occurrences, they wake up in a new place, with a new life. Is it a dream or can it actually become the reality they each have secretly hoped for?
First, let me start with, I don't actually know why hockey romances are a thing. They just aren't for me. I picked this book up because I am a huge fan of retellings. This one was no different. Sure there is some hockey stuff in there, but The Nutcracker bits are the heart and soul of this story and I LOVED the way it is portrayed.
When I picked up this book, I honestly didn't know what to expect. I was so pleasantly surprised! The characters each had their own amount of depth, the spice was THERE, and the fun Nutcracker add-ins showed a level of understanding to the ballet that I adored. I have enjoyed the ballet for years and was so enraptured in the story, I missed a lot of hints in there, just like Claire.
I am so glad I gave this book a chance. If you are a hockey-romance fan, a retelling fan, or a holiday romance fan, I highly recommend you give this book a chance!
Though this is a standalone book, it is the first book in a new retelling series from the author and I cannot wait to see what she comes up with next!
December 2, 2025
The title of the newest release by Jess Christine certainly led me to believe this would be a sweet holiday romance. Imagine my surprise when Christine opened with perhaps the spiciest first chapter I've read in a long time--maybe ever!
No nicknames. No sleepovers. No strings attached.
The premise of Claire and Everett's "hookup only" encounters was such a clever way to introduce two characters who both need something more from their relationship but who are both too career driven to realize they could be more. I loved that Christine chose to write both main characters as so career driven neither can see their soulmate is standing right in front of them.
The framing of their romance within the a Nutcracker retelling a fresh approach to a holiday romance. Claire's life long dream to dance the lead role in the ballet was heartfelt and pure and propelled the story forward without being over the top. Everett's focus on his hockey career gave the author a realistic way to force a speration of the two characters as Everett is tradeded to another team. Everett's desire for something more with Claire was evident from the beginning, but a a reader, I appreciated that the author let him work for Claire's affections while also allowing her time to come to that realization on her own time.
Jess Christine has become a must read author for me and this delightfully spicy holiday romance is a fantastic addition to her catalogue. Cheers!
No nicknames. No sleepovers. No strings attached.
The premise of Claire and Everett's "hookup only" encounters was such a clever way to introduce two characters who both need something more from their relationship but who are both too career driven to realize they could be more. I loved that Christine chose to write both main characters as so career driven neither can see their soulmate is standing right in front of them.
The framing of their romance within the a Nutcracker retelling a fresh approach to a holiday romance. Claire's life long dream to dance the lead role in the ballet was heartfelt and pure and propelled the story forward without being over the top. Everett's focus on his hockey career gave the author a realistic way to force a speration of the two characters as Everett is tradeded to another team. Everett's desire for something more with Claire was evident from the beginning, but a a reader, I appreciated that the author let him work for Claire's affections while also allowing her time to come to that realization on her own time.
Jess Christine has become a must read author for me and this delightfully spicy holiday romance is a fantastic addition to her catalogue. Cheers!
November 26, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | 🔥🔥🔥
If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday escape, this book is your ticket to Sugarplum bliss! Grab your favorite cozy drink—hot cocoa, eggnog, or maybe a peppermint latte—and settle in, because this story is pure Christmas magic with a spicy twist.
Think Hallmark vibes… but with heat. Or imagine stepping into a glittering winter wonderland where romance, drama, and holiday magic/cheer collide. That’s exactly what Jess Christine delivers in this delightful read.
Claire, a ballerina, and Everett, a hockey player, once shared a “friendemies with benefits” spark before life pulled them apart. Fast forward four years: Everett’s back in NYC, Claire’s nursing a broken heart after a messy breakup, and fate throws them together in the most unexpected way. What follows? A whirlwind of rekindled passion, snowy adventures, and the enchanting Sugarplum Park—a place that feels like Christmas exploded in the best possible way.
Everett stole my heart. His patience, his devotion, and the way he puts Claire’s happiness above his own? Swoon-worthy. This isn’t just a romance; it’s a reminder of what really matters during the holidays and life—love, joy, and second chances.
If you want a book that feels like twinkling lights, cozy nights, and a dash of spice, pick this up NOW. It’s festive, fun, and absolutely perfect for the season!
If you’re looking for the ultimate holiday escape, this book is your ticket to Sugarplum bliss! Grab your favorite cozy drink—hot cocoa, eggnog, or maybe a peppermint latte—and settle in, because this story is pure Christmas magic with a spicy twist.
Think Hallmark vibes… but with heat. Or imagine stepping into a glittering winter wonderland where romance, drama, and holiday magic/cheer collide. That’s exactly what Jess Christine delivers in this delightful read.
Claire, a ballerina, and Everett, a hockey player, once shared a “friendemies with benefits” spark before life pulled them apart. Fast forward four years: Everett’s back in NYC, Claire’s nursing a broken heart after a messy breakup, and fate throws them together in the most unexpected way. What follows? A whirlwind of rekindled passion, snowy adventures, and the enchanting Sugarplum Park—a place that feels like Christmas exploded in the best possible way.
Everett stole my heart. His patience, his devotion, and the way he puts Claire’s happiness above his own? Swoon-worthy. This isn’t just a romance; it’s a reminder of what really matters during the holidays and life—love, joy, and second chances.
If you want a book that feels like twinkling lights, cozy nights, and a dash of spice, pick this up NOW. It’s festive, fun, and absolutely perfect for the season!
November 25, 2025
I got an ARC of this book and boy am I glad I did because this book is going on my Christmas list! This year may be my year of romantasy and this book really hit me with all the feels, and had me buying tickets to see the Nutcracker performed by a local ballet troupe.
The story centers around Claire and Everett who had a very spicy relationship in the past, but always kind of wondered what would happen if he hadn't left four years ago. When Claire attends a hockey game for her current boyfriend and sees Everett again, sparks fly and as they say, anything can happen when there's snow.
I don't want to give much away, but this book pulled me in right from the spicy beginning (and thank you to the author for the warning about that!) through the small town romance, and on the edge of my seat at the end wondering if it was all a dream or if things would work out. There may have been some nail biting going on as I could not put this book down.
This is the first book by this author I've read and I am already looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it comes out. I'm looking forward to going to see the Nutcracker and somehow I'm really inspired to make some peppermint bark. If you don't have this on your holiday reading list, add it now!
The story centers around Claire and Everett who had a very spicy relationship in the past, but always kind of wondered what would happen if he hadn't left four years ago. When Claire attends a hockey game for her current boyfriend and sees Everett again, sparks fly and as they say, anything can happen when there's snow.
I don't want to give much away, but this book pulled me in right from the spicy beginning (and thank you to the author for the warning about that!) through the small town romance, and on the edge of my seat at the end wondering if it was all a dream or if things would work out. There may have been some nail biting going on as I could not put this book down.
This is the first book by this author I've read and I am already looking forward to reading the next book in this series when it comes out. I'm looking forward to going to see the Nutcracker and somehow I'm really inspired to make some peppermint bark. If you don't have this on your holiday reading list, add it now!
November 29, 2025
A Nutcracker retelling... yes please!
This one has me hooked from the prologue!
You have Claire who is a ballerina and Everette who is a Hockey player. They have a spicy casual past then life tears them apart. Brought back together a few years later...With one night that changes their reality completely. Waking up in Sugarplum Park!!! Will they find their way home? What will come of this second chance?
This was sweet, tense, cozy, spicy, all the things wrapped into one. I loved the magical realism in this! Gave that extra Christmas magic spark that i love so much. It was better than Hallmark.. sprinkled with spice and a splash of magic!
I loved both Claire and Everette from the very beginning. They are both so adorable, sweet, and absolutely charming together 💕 There's some top notch banter and internal dialogue that genuinely made me giggle. So get ready to laugh, to swoon (a lot of swooning), possibly shed a tear or two! I think the author did a fantastic job with this! This is just perfection! 👏 This has made it to my favorites list of the year.
❄️Nutcracker Retelling
❄️Hockey Player x Ballerina
❄️Second Chance
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Small Town Christmas
❄️Magical Realism
❄️Spicy
Thank you for my ARC! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This one has me hooked from the prologue!
You have Claire who is a ballerina and Everette who is a Hockey player. They have a spicy casual past then life tears them apart. Brought back together a few years later...With one night that changes their reality completely. Waking up in Sugarplum Park!!! Will they find their way home? What will come of this second chance?
This was sweet, tense, cozy, spicy, all the things wrapped into one. I loved the magical realism in this! Gave that extra Christmas magic spark that i love so much. It was better than Hallmark.. sprinkled with spice and a splash of magic!
I loved both Claire and Everette from the very beginning. They are both so adorable, sweet, and absolutely charming together 💕 There's some top notch banter and internal dialogue that genuinely made me giggle. So get ready to laugh, to swoon (a lot of swooning), possibly shed a tear or two! I think the author did a fantastic job with this! This is just perfection! 👏 This has made it to my favorites list of the year.
❄️Nutcracker Retelling
❄️Hockey Player x Ballerina
❄️Second Chance
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Small Town Christmas
❄️Magical Realism
❄️Spicy
Thank you for my ARC! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 6, 2025
Thank you Jess for the ARC of your delightful book!
Ok I am loving this retelling of The Nutcracker! I have read so many versions of this story over the years and I honestly did not realize how much I needed a modern day one with, hello!!! A hockey player, until now. The book starts with a literal bang, which made me laugh, because I knew right away this story was not going to hold back on the spice. And it does not. At all.
I really loved the magical little world Claire and Everett get pulled into and how it kind of forces them to get to know each other again. There is something so sweet about that. It is a fun and charming second chance mixed with forced proximity and a magical small town romance! And we get a new trope I am loving which is hockey boy and ballerina girl! Plus we get no third act breakups with this one!
I loved this book by Jess so much. I am obsessed with how her writing has grown, you can feel the confidence and the joy in every chapter. And the whole thing was just fun. I read it in bed every night and kept falling asleep mid chapter with my Kindle on my chest, probably dreaming with sugarplum fairies floating above my head. I did not want it to end.
Ok I am loving this retelling of The Nutcracker! I have read so many versions of this story over the years and I honestly did not realize how much I needed a modern day one with, hello!!! A hockey player, until now. The book starts with a literal bang, which made me laugh, because I knew right away this story was not going to hold back on the spice. And it does not. At all.
I really loved the magical little world Claire and Everett get pulled into and how it kind of forces them to get to know each other again. There is something so sweet about that. It is a fun and charming second chance mixed with forced proximity and a magical small town romance! And we get a new trope I am loving which is hockey boy and ballerina girl! Plus we get no third act breakups with this one!
I loved this book by Jess so much. I am obsessed with how her writing has grown, you can feel the confidence and the joy in every chapter. And the whole thing was just fun. I read it in bed every night and kept falling asleep mid chapter with my Kindle on my chest, probably dreaming with sugarplum fairies floating above my head. I did not want it to end.
November 24, 2025
A Nutcracker retelling but make it spicy. I am such a big Jess Christine fan and when this hit my Kindle I stopped what I was reading to dive right in!
Claire is a ballerina in NYC who has a friend with benefits in Everett. Mostly just the benefits since they don’t really like each other all that much. Everett plays hockey and just got traded so he’s leaving New York for Texas as it is.
Flash forward a few years and Claire gets her dream roll of Sugarplum Fairy, she’s dating a star hockey player, and her family will be here for her Christmas Nutcracker performance. She’s heading to watch her boyfriend’s hockey game when she realizes not only is Everett back in town, his team is playing tonight.
A series of unfortunate events unravels and Claire ends up taking Everett home with her. Wanting to do things differently he spends the night but when they wake up, they aren’t in New York!
Jess writes “cotton candy smut” and this definitely delivers! It was cute, cozy, spicy, with a dash of holiday magic! I really enjoyed the story and it was super clever how the Nutcracker was woven into it. This was a perfect book to start my holiday reading!
Claire is a ballerina in NYC who has a friend with benefits in Everett. Mostly just the benefits since they don’t really like each other all that much. Everett plays hockey and just got traded so he’s leaving New York for Texas as it is.
Flash forward a few years and Claire gets her dream roll of Sugarplum Fairy, she’s dating a star hockey player, and her family will be here for her Christmas Nutcracker performance. She’s heading to watch her boyfriend’s hockey game when she realizes not only is Everett back in town, his team is playing tonight.
A series of unfortunate events unravels and Claire ends up taking Everett home with her. Wanting to do things differently he spends the night but when they wake up, they aren’t in New York!
Jess writes “cotton candy smut” and this definitely delivers! It was cute, cozy, spicy, with a dash of holiday magic! I really enjoyed the story and it was super clever how the Nutcracker was woven into it. This was a perfect book to start my holiday reading!
November 26, 2025
I received a copy of this for my honest review
Our FMC and MMc are a part of a situationship, but it's coming to an end. He is a hockey play that got traded to Texas and she is a ballerina staying in New York. Now 4 years later she just got the biggest news of her life, she is going to be dancing the Sugar Plum Fairy for the Christmas performance. She is now going to see her boyfriend play against her former flame, but weird things keep happening, bringing her back to him. When she finds out that she is in fact her boyfriends side piece, she ends up at a bar alone. She is surprise to find our MMC walk in to the same bar shortly after her. He is considering what he is going to do about his shoulder and therefore his career, and the weird question the random reporter asked him. When a night of reconnecting ends up with them waking up together, but they are no longer in New York. Now they are in Sugarplum Park, married, and realizing they have to work together to figure out how they can get home
Our FMC and MMc are a part of a situationship, but it's coming to an end. He is a hockey play that got traded to Texas and she is a ballerina staying in New York. Now 4 years later she just got the biggest news of her life, she is going to be dancing the Sugar Plum Fairy for the Christmas performance. She is now going to see her boyfriend play against her former flame, but weird things keep happening, bringing her back to him. When she finds out that she is in fact her boyfriends side piece, she ends up at a bar alone. She is surprise to find our MMC walk in to the same bar shortly after her. He is considering what he is going to do about his shoulder and therefore his career, and the weird question the random reporter asked him. When a night of reconnecting ends up with them waking up together, but they are no longer in New York. Now they are in Sugarplum Park, married, and realizing they have to work together to figure out how they can get home
December 5, 2025
🩰 Ballerina x Hockey Player
🎄 Second Chance Romance
✨ Small Town Magic
💫 Meant To Be Vibes!
🔥 Push & Pull
💬 Banter
💖 He Falls First
🎁 Holiday Romance
🪄 Matchmaker 🧚♀️
🌶️ Sweet & Spicy
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jess Christine delivers such a fun and magical story with 𝐀 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬! I absolutely adored Everett and Claire’s second chance - these two have history, heart, and chemistry that leaps off the page. Claire might put up a fierce fight, but our man Everett? He knows 𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 who he wants, and it’s always been her. Their playful banter, push-and-pull dynamic, and the way they gravitate right back to each other completely captured my heart.
Add in a charming touch of magic, sit back, and watch love bloom. Sugarplum Park is whimsical, warm, and full of delightful characters. And Stella? That crafty, brilliant woman knows 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 how to nudge people into opening their eyes to the love right in front of them.
Fun, sweet, spicy, and irresistibly enchanting, this is a perfect holiday read to curl up with.
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 💕
🎄 Second Chance Romance
✨ Small Town Magic
💫 Meant To Be Vibes!
🔥 Push & Pull
💬 Banter
💖 He Falls First
🎁 Holiday Romance
🪄 Matchmaker 🧚♀️
🌶️ Sweet & Spicy
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Jess Christine delivers such a fun and magical story with 𝐀 𝐃𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐒𝐮𝐠𝐚𝐫𝐩𝐥𝐮𝐦𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐏𝐨𝐰𝐞𝐫 𝐏𝐥𝐚𝐲𝐬! I absolutely adored Everett and Claire’s second chance - these two have history, heart, and chemistry that leaps off the page. Claire might put up a fierce fight, but our man Everett? He knows 𝘦𝘹𝘢𝘤𝘵𝘭𝘺 who he wants, and it’s always been her. Their playful banter, push-and-pull dynamic, and the way they gravitate right back to each other completely captured my heart.
Add in a charming touch of magic, sit back, and watch love bloom. Sugarplum Park is whimsical, warm, and full of delightful characters. And Stella? That crafty, brilliant woman knows 𝘫𝘶𝘴𝘵 how to nudge people into opening their eyes to the love right in front of them.
Fun, sweet, spicy, and irresistibly enchanting, this is a perfect holiday read to curl up with.
Special thanks to the author for the gifted copy 💕
December 6, 2025
Thank you Jess & Good Girl Author Services for the ARC copy
Just like Everett I had no knowledge of the Nutcracker but even with that I thoroughly enjoyed Jess' spin on it.
Everett & Claire were such a cute pairing for MCs & I loved the way that Stella interfered to open their eyes to what they both truly wanted. Sometimes you need outside intervention to help you see what is right in front of your face. The fact that their is spice right from the prologue was extremely fitting to set the scene for this second chance romance & show the evolution of Everett & Claire from where they started to where they were at the end of the story. I loved seeing both of them as such career driven people & not giving up on their dreams just for love. The magical aspect of the story was done so perfectly. It was the perfect amount of realistic but also just the amount of Christmas magic necessary.
I loved how perfectly everything tied together at the end of the story & look forward to where Jess takes the Fairytale Season series.
Just like Everett I had no knowledge of the Nutcracker but even with that I thoroughly enjoyed Jess' spin on it.
Everett & Claire were such a cute pairing for MCs & I loved the way that Stella interfered to open their eyes to what they both truly wanted. Sometimes you need outside intervention to help you see what is right in front of your face. The fact that their is spice right from the prologue was extremely fitting to set the scene for this second chance romance & show the evolution of Everett & Claire from where they started to where they were at the end of the story. I loved seeing both of them as such career driven people & not giving up on their dreams just for love. The magical aspect of the story was done so perfectly. It was the perfect amount of realistic but also just the amount of Christmas magic necessary.
I loved how perfectly everything tied together at the end of the story & look forward to where Jess takes the Fairytale Season series.
December 10, 2025
What to expect:
•Nutcracker Retelling
•Second chance
•Hockey player x ballerina
•forced proximity
•small town Christmas
•spice
•magical realism
This was my first nutcracker retelling and I didn’t know what to expect (besides reading the blurb) because honestly I don’t think I’ve ever watched it before!
I love Christmas time books and I liked that this was hockey x ballerina since I haven’t really read anything like this so far! I did enjoy the magical realism aspect of this as well! I thought the book was descriptive and I could see Sugarplum Park as it was being described.
I loved the main characters and thought that they complemented each other well. Everett was thoughtful and it seemed that throughout the years apart, he grew as a person. Claire and Everett both had dreams but despite not seeing each other for a while, they both took up space in each others minds and in the end everything worked out the way it was supposed to!
Thank you to Jess for the opportunity to arc read this story!! I can’t wait to see what is next!
•Nutcracker Retelling
•Second chance
•Hockey player x ballerina
•forced proximity
•small town Christmas
•spice
•magical realism
This was my first nutcracker retelling and I didn’t know what to expect (besides reading the blurb) because honestly I don’t think I’ve ever watched it before!
I love Christmas time books and I liked that this was hockey x ballerina since I haven’t really read anything like this so far! I did enjoy the magical realism aspect of this as well! I thought the book was descriptive and I could see Sugarplum Park as it was being described.
I loved the main characters and thought that they complemented each other well. Everett was thoughtful and it seemed that throughout the years apart, he grew as a person. Claire and Everett both had dreams but despite not seeing each other for a while, they both took up space in each others minds and in the end everything worked out the way it was supposed to!
Thank you to Jess for the opportunity to arc read this story!! I can’t wait to see what is next!
December 13, 2025
Well this was very different to what I expected. It started off a typical hockey romance, with Claire and Everett being exes, Claire dating another douchebag, who happened to be one of Everett's archenemies. When they find eachother again after over 4 years apart, it's magic that follows. Claire is a dancer, and gets promoted to lead dancer for the Nutcracker, Everett is struggling with a shoulder injury, when suddenly after reconnecting they find themselves in a magical wonderland where things are not what they seem. Everyone there loves them and knows them, but they don't really know what's going on. All they want is to find their way back to New York. I loved how this book evolved, and how it wasn't just your typical hockey romance, but a magical journey of discovery and love. I loved how they both really got to know the other and reinvented their love and desire for each other. I loved how they made such great friends in the town and how they helped the town along as well. This was an enjoyable and very different read!
December 5, 2025
Oh my gosh , I absolutely adored every single thing about this book . The Nutcracker- I have to say , not really a huge fan at all . But this story just might be the exception, because really guys who doesn’t love a great love story , a second chance one at that between a Hockey Player and a Ballerina. Claire and Everett omg these two truly had my heart from the beginning- their friends with benefits arrangement so freaking hot until everything comes to a halting stop . Because he gets traded . Both decide to focus on their careers , four years passes without any communication. But that’s not the end of their story . Fate once again steps in and brings Everett back home again , back into Claire’s Universe. A unplanned run in leads to an unforgettable steamy night together and all the feelings between them come rushing back. Such a great story especially with Christmas right around the corner
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