Something to Savor: A New Year’s Eve to Remember

by Nina Stewart

Something to A New Year’s to Remember

Some connections start quietly.
Some begin as favors.
And some are only supposed to last until the holidays are over.

Yasmine Cole wasn’t looking for anything serious. Not with a full life she loves, a career she’s proud of, and a new year right around the corner. Zavier Carter definitely wasn’t either. What starts between them is easy, temporary, and meant to stay exactly where it is.

But easy has a way of getting complicated.

A single New Year’s Eve changes the rhythm of everything. Lines blur. Conversations linger. And just when it feels like the moment has passed, life pulls them together again—this time somewhere slower, warmer, and far more intimate than either of them expected.

Set between the glow of New York City and the charm of a small Southern town, Something to A New Year’s to Remember is a sweet, feel-good holiday romance about timing, connection, and the quiet magic that shows up when you stop pretending you don’t want more.

It’s cozy.
It’s emotional.
It’s full of soft moments, family chaos, laughter, and a love that sneaks up on you when you least expect it.
Curl up, settle in, and savor every page.

Genres: Romance

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 21, 2026

Reviews

[Alexis Richard · Rating 5 out of 5]

The city girl meets the southern-small town guy. Yasmine Cole, a creative director crosses paths with DJ Zay, Zavier Carter.

ARC Reader here! Let me start by saying this book felt like HOME. This is my 3rd book by Nina and each story gets better and better. This novella didn’t feel rushed at ALL. The emotional depth and connection that was shared between various characters was incredible. These books could be turned into screen adaptations, somebody get Hallmark or Lifetime on the phone. Something to Savor brought something different I wasn’t fully expecting. I savored every moment and page curled up! This is a closed door romance with a fake dating trope. Even though the dating was fake, the connection and development was real between the two main characters. The attraction was instant but in a sense there was a slow progression to arriving at we like each other.

To me we had two tropes in a sense, Fake Dating was the main trope and we had a sense of Friends to Lovers as well! I enjoyed the build up of Zavier and Yasmine’s friendship and bond. The daily check ins and hangouts they would have with each other. The way Zavier and Yasmine met was also cute! I love how this series incorporates some of precious characters. As a reader, it’s a cool way to keep the connection going with you and the various characters. Love it!

The family dynamic that came into play was so sweet and strong. It reminded me of my family get togethers. Zavier’s mom and dad allowing space for Yasmine into their home and hearts was pure! Now Destiny (Zavier’s sister) was nothing to play with… I found myself in awe and also annoyed like chill sis! On a serious note, I understood her sisterly love and protection because I can be the same way with my little sister.

This book gave me all the feels. If you’re looking for a sweet palate cleanser, this book is for you! Great way to spend a day or weekend of reading and relaxation.

[Gabby Cepeda · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was a beta reader, and let me just say… You had me at fake dating! Seriously this was such a cute fun read. Loved the chemistry and Yasmine really is that woman, she is so confident and strong and the person you want to take home to your family. Zavier is protective, gives you exactly what you need, and has a great sense of humor. Together they are just too cute. Meeting his family brought a little drama, and lots of sweet moments. Overall it was a cute fun read!

[Lonnesha Walker · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for another cozy romance to warm you up this January, look no further than Nina Stewart’s Something to Savor. In the third standalone of the Sweet Seasons Holiday Romance Collection, this novella carries the same theme of a sweet romance that’s cozy without being spicy.

This installment follows Yasmine and Zavier on a fake date for a New Year’s party. This date is supposed to be drama free and over once the party ends. What could go wrong?

Yasmine is “that girl.” You know, the girl that has the career and a lifestyle that’s full. Zavier takes notice of her as soon as she enters the room and JUMPS at the offer of being her fake date to his friend’s party. One thing leads to another and suddenly they are strangers turned friends developing into something more.

If I could fight one character though, it would be his sister Destiny! You’ll have to read it to find out why! 🤭

I thoroughly enjoyed myself with this one (side note: I love all the books in this series). Nina is great at writing sweet romances that showcase black women (and men) being loved properly without being spicy. Her talent definitely shines in this series and I look forward to reading more from her.

This book will be available on Amazon (Kindle) on 1/21/2026 (TOMORROW!!!) Thanks again, Nina, for giving me a chance to beta & ARC read this one! Love it!

[Danielle · Rating 4 out of 5]

A nice and short cozy holiday romance.

[Jasmine Blanding · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something to Savor: A New Year’s Eve to Remember 💛 I was grateful to be an ARC reader again and Nina did not disappoint! This is the third book of her Sweet Seasons Holiday Romance Collection.
Something to Savor is a sweet, feel-good New Year’s romance, no spice, that I thoroughly enjoyed from start to finish. Yasmine and Zavier’s connection felt natural and easy, and fun, making their fake-dating setup believable and warm. I loved the balance of humor and soft romance with a beautiful connection and growth.
Yasmine gives “boss girl” energy while Zavier gives laid-back and charm. This book was refreshing to read, cozy and the perfect conclusion to her holiday romance trilogy. Highly recommend!!

[Pamela Osbey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Something to Savor is a closed-door romance that revolves around the blossoming relationship between Xavier and Yasmine. At the beginning of the story, we discover that Xavier has been on set for one of Yasmine’s coordination jobs. This tender romance is told through two perspectives. Yasmine and Xavier decide to enter into a fake relationship; she needs a plus one for a New Year's Eve event where her estranged boyfriend is expected to appear. Xavier is more than willing to join her, as he also prefers not to attend the event alone. However, their arrangement comes with rules, many of which get eventually broken! As the story progresses, the roles reverse, and Xavier needs Yasmine to accompany him home to his family.

I appreciated the beautifully messy and complex storytelling, reflecting the reality that relationships are rarely perfect. Although Xavier makes several mistakes, they are never intentional.

I admired his sister Destiny, who fiercely sought to protect her brother, though her assumptions about Yasmine's intentions regarding Xavier sometimes frustrated me. The author skillfully explores the layers of budding love, family ties, and the complexities of fake relationships. Love is truly something to savor, and when it’s real, it’s worth fighting for.

I must say this is my favorite out of the three stories I have read by Nina Stewart. The pacing of the story was just right for me. It was a fast paced novel; I finished it in just a few short hours. Each chapter's ending left me eager for more, and I was invested from Chapter One. I loved the portrayal of strong Black love and relationships, as well as the author’s ability to gradually reveal character backgrounds and flaws. These characters felt like people I could be friends with and cheer for. The secondary characters were also well-developed and supportive.

I received this book as a beta reader, and I am looking forward to the final version.

I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoys a sweet romance featuring realistic characters who will make you laugh and reflect on your own experiences in love.

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a cute read! It started off a little slow, which makes sense since it’s a slow-burn romance, but I loved the setup of Yasmine and Zavier’s fake-dating romance for the New Year’s party.

Yasmine is a creative director who recently broke up with her boyfriend and didn’t want to spend New Year’s alone, so she and Zavier (a DJ) agree to fake date. Unfortunately, someone takes a picture of the two of them and posts it on a gossip blog. Zavier’s siblings find out about the “relationship,” and instead of telling the truth, Zavier tells them they’re actually dating for real. As the baby of the family, he feels pressure to finally have something serious going on.

Things get more complicated when his mother finds out and invites both Zavier and Yasmine to Georgia to celebrate her and her husband’s 30th wedding anniversary. Zavier tells Yasmine about the trip but doesn’t tell her that he lied about them actually dating.

Yasmine and Zavier are very different people. Yasmine is an adoptee and an only child from Harlem, while Zavier is a Southern man with a large family. I really liked them as a couple — their connection didn’t feel forced. It grew naturally from a fun friendship.

Now Destiny… whew. She was mean-spirited and jealous. She’s Zavier’s older sister and was suspicious that Yasmine and Zavier weren’t really together. At their parents’ anniversary party, she confronted Yasmine about the fake dating and the fact that she was on a break from her ex. My jaw dropped. I couldn’t believe she did that. She completely embarrassed and humiliated Yasmine in front of everyone. I felt so hurt for her. Even though it was true, Zavier should’ve stood up for Yasmine, but he was too shocked. The whole situation was totally unexpected, and Destiny was very wrong.

I’m glad that Yasmine and Zavier were able to work things out, but I really would’ve liked to see Destiny apologize to Yasmine. Also, even though it was a short read, I wish there had been more exploration of Yasmine’s adoption story.

Overall, I’d give this book an 8.5/10.

[Patience · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title: Sweet, Effortless Fake Dating Romance with Cozy New Year’s Vibes

Something to Savor: A New Year’s Eve to Remember by Nina Stewart is a sweet fake-dating romance that delivered exactly the kind of feel-good love story I wanted.

Yasmine and Zavier felt like quintessential romantic leads in a Black romance—effortlessly charming, warm, and completely in sync without trying too hard. Their connection felt natural from the start, and the chemistry between them built in a way that was soft, believable, and genuinely enjoyable to read. They were a whole vibe together without forcing it, which made their dynamic feel refreshing and easy to root for.

The fake dating setup paired with the New Year’s Eve backdrop created the perfect atmosphere for a cozy, romantic story. This book leans more into sweetness than heavy drama, which worked well for me. It’s the kind of read you pick up when you want something heartwarming, romantic, and satisfying without a lot of angst. The pacing kept things engaging, and the emotional payoff felt just right for the tone of the story.

If you’re looking for a Black romance with lovable characters, smooth chemistry, and a feel-good fake dating storyline, this is definitely one to add to your list. It’s a charming, cozy read that’s perfect when you want romance that feels easy, warm, and genuinely enjoyable.

[Cadijah · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a beta reader, I was beyond excited to dive into Nina Stewart’s third book in this standalone series—and it did not disappoint. While familiar characters from previous books make appearances, this story can absolutely be enjoyed on its own, making it welcoming to both longtime fans and new readers alike.

“Something to Savor: A New Year’s Eve to Remember” is a charming and engaging romance filled with brewing love, fake dating, a delightful small-town-meets-big-city dynamic, and a festive New Year’s Eve party that brings everything together beautifully. Nina Stewart has a true gift for developing realistic, relatable characters and telling stories that feel genuine and heartfelt.

This book took me on an emotional ride—it made me happy, sad, and giggly, all while keeping me completely hooked. I genuinely couldn’t put it down. It’s perfect for when you’re craving a quick read or want a book you can enjoy in one sitting.

Nina Stewart continues to deliver stories that resonate, and this one is definitely something to savor. 💕📖✨

[Tiara Lashae · Rating 4 out of 5]

As a beta reader, I had the chance to read Something to Savor early and I genuinely enjoyed it! This was such a cozy, sweet holiday romance with the perfect mix of NYC energy, small-town charm, soft moments, and family chaos.

Yasmine and Zavier’s connection starts off easy and temporary, but of course feelings don’t always follow the plan. Zavier gave strong, confident energy in the beginning, but once he got around his family it was like watching him shrink in real time—and that honestly made me sad for him and for Yasmine. It hurt seeing him feel like he couldn’t fully be himself or speak up without worrying about what they thought.

And Destiny… whew. She had me irritated BAD. Every time she opened her mouth I was ready for her to mind her business 😭.

Overall, this book was emotional, heartwarming, and full of moments that made me smile. I loved the growth and I was so satisfied with how everything came together by the end. Definitely a sweet holiday read to add to your TBR! 💛✨

[Ciara J · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was able to read an early copy of - Something to Savor: A New Year’s to Remember. And let me tell you, this was so cute… a very cozy new year novella! I loved how the characters relationship developed, and wasn’t rushed. Yasmine is a creative director for a celebrity. Zavier is a NY DJ. They “fake date” to a New Year’s Eve party, and their friendship continues after that day. They start to have mini coffee shop meet ups, and the daily texts / check- ins become comforting for both. But, you see the friendship turn complicated when Zavier tells his siblings that Yasmine is his girlfriend. Zavier is tired of his family thinking he’s still a baby and hates not being taken seriously. Let’s just say things get a little messy, especially now that family is involved! But, overall, it was a great read!

[Shenia Mackey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Romance

I knew l was going to like Zavier when I read Pecan Pie for Two. I love a fake dating romance so much. Zavier and Yasmine had so much chemistry and I knew that they would fall for each other. The way the story continued after New Year's Eve was an unexpected surprise. The family dynamic added an additional layer to the story. I love Zay's parents and I gave Destiny serious side-eye. My favorite part of this book is how Nina Stewart describes the scenery in such detail that you feel you are right in the room or imagining the scene as a movie in your head. I need another book where everyone shows up for a wedding or something so I can see how everyone is doing. Oh and the peach cobbler recipe 😊

[Victoria Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

No surprise I really enjoyed this book just like I did the other books in the series. I really enjoyed the twist on a fake dating trope and what it looks like on a more realistic level. I loved that the main characters were successful in their respective careers and that there wasn’t some crazy trauma they were using their situation to hide from. They made the space to truly build up a strong bond and connection. That is a testament to the author to be able to do so in such a short span of pages.i will say there were a couple of characters that i wanted to slap across the face but I was able to get past my frustration since our couple ended up happy. I would love is the series kept going because I truly love the author’s writing!

[Terris Burney · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was given the opportunity to read this book early as a beta reader. I have read all 3 holiday books by Nina Stewart and this is definitely my favorite. A relationship that started out fake turns into something so real. Zavier and Yasmine had great chemistry that wasn't forced or awkward. Destiny got on my nerves and made me wish I could jump in the book to tell her off. This book teaches you that yes, sometimes we do shrink ourselves for others, but we just need that special someone to come along and help us unshrink ourselves. I can't wait to see what's next from Nina Stewart, hopefully a valentines story.

[MikeQuita · Rating 4 out of 5]

Although this wasn’t my favorite book of the series, I still really enjoyed it. I was so caught up in the story that I almost missed the pie for this book—and if you know me, that’s saying a lot.

The story gave me Welcome Home Roscoe Jenkins vibes: returning home, family dynamics, history, and all the feelings that come with it. It had that familiar, comforting Southern energy that pulls you right in.

Honestly, if you want to sell me on a book, just set it in Georgia and add a Southern belle—I’m already sold. While it didn’t top my list in the series, it was still a satisfying, engaging read that kept my attention from start to finish.

[Bianca C · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank to NinaStewart for the ARC review. This was why I call a palate cleanser, great romance, short story, no spice yet a little drama. This is the third novelette in the series and I've enjoyed everyone. Zavier and Yasmine began as a fake couple to show her ex boyfriend she's moved on. The date goes without a hitch but they continue platonically seeing each other and nervous to cross the line. Zavier allows the lie to continue with his family as they are seen in the blogs together. They journey to Georgia as a "couple" to his parent's anniversary dinner. The men are always troubled with their decisions but never waver on going to get their girl.

[Sherilyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Something to Savor: A New Year’s Eve to Remember was a very cute and cozy read. I loved how Yasmine and Zavier’s story developed throughout the book from a fake date, to a developing friendship, leading to a little family drama with an overprotective sibling ending with finding the one. I was happy to see Zavier speak up for himself for what he wants.
Nina took us from a Sweet Potato Pie, to a Pecan Pie and ending with a Peach Cobbler, maybe food is the way to a man’s heart after-all. (ARC Reader)

[Meleia Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

BETA Reader

I absolutely love Zavier and Yasmine. They had such a natural flow to their friendship/relationship. They understood each other without even trying. I loved watching how their relationship just continued to keep growing and becoming more and neither of them realized it until they did. Destiny was doing the most and I was waiting for her to be checked! But I am glad Zavier showed up and Yasmine allowed him to show up.

Definitely recommended reading this book and the entire series.

[Hollie K · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nina!!! Congratulations on this amazing book! Thank you for selecting me to receive an ARC.
I’ve had the privilege of reading all three books you’ve released and the growth that shows in this book is amazing! They were all good, but you were in your bag with this one!
Yasmine and Zay’s love story was so beautifully told, not rushed and the way their personal lives and the supporting characters were infused was perfect!

I’m grateful to be here in the beginning of your author journey. It’s only up from here!

[Danielle Holmes · Rating 3 out of 5]

Faking It Until It’s Real

A New Year’s Eve fake date leads to a fake relationship between Zavier & Yasmine. Yasmine needed to signify to her ex she’s moved on by attending a party with an attractive DJ (Zavier) she just meet.

Zavier’s fake date with Yasmine leads to a friendship. Eventually Zavier needs to prove he’s successful and what better way to do so by saying he’s in a fake relationship.

Fake dating leads to a tangled web of lies and messiness, but real feelings forces truths that can no longer be unreal.

Tropes:
Fake Dating
Small town drama

[Char’s Perfumed Pages · Rating 5 out of 5]

This black romance story was cost, heartfelt, slow burn, banter. This novella tells you how the love story of Yasmine Cole and Zavier Carter began. In New Year’s Eve they agree to be each other’s fake date so that Yasmine can show her ex she had moved on. Little does she know that Zavier really likes her and he might be saying he is down for the one night only but he is not fooling anybody when he cracks under pressure telling a lie that will end in heartbreak and revelation at the same time!!!! A must read from her catalogue and I will for sure be going to read the rest of novels.

[Natasha Renee · Rating 5 out of 5]

From a fake date on N.Y.E to real fireworks! 🥰 Yasmine & Zavier had me in my feelings real bad! The ease of how their friendship developed, the light flirtation & how they continued to show up for each other was great to read. I resonated with Zavier's desire to impress his family & also how that can hurt you in the long run. The scene at the coffee shop....whew 🥹 I wanted to scream.....he's sorry girl, forgive him already 😂

[Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to be an Arc reader and this book was everything that i expected it to be based off of the previous two holiday novellas Nina has written. This was a short and to the pount about two people who discovered something real even though it started out as a fake relationship. I am glad that Zay finally found his voice and didnt lose his chance with Yasmine! This was once again a five atar read

[LaTia · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good read. If you love a “Friends to Lovers “ story this is the book for you. I love how a fake date turns into a friendship; that then turns into choosing each other based on the real them. The book had me so captivated that I didn’t even miss that there was no love scenes. It doesn’t need it you get the intimacy from how they are with each other. How they just feel so comfortable just being around each other. I would definitely recommend this book to my friends and family.

[Yana N. · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a day one beta reader from Sweet Potato Kisses, this is my FAVORITE book so far!! This story gave me all the beginning of the year feels I needed while still keeping some holiday magic sprinkled in. I adored the relationship between Zavier and Yasmine. The “just friends” tension, I ATE UP! I cannot wait to read this book in its final copy

[Nerissa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was in a reading slump and was looking for something with low drama but still entertaining. This book was it! I love that you could see the chemistry with the characters almost immediately even though it was a slow burn. I definitely enjoyed this book.I love how bold and confident Yasmine was. I always love a good fake dating romance and this was it. This got me out of my reading slump.

[Latronda McCoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

First off let’s talk about the beautiful cover!!! That alone had me itching to read it. This is my third read by the author and I think this may be my favorite of the three. It’s just something about a fake relationship that shifts into something more that gets me every time. If you are looking for a cozy, short, holiday read you should check out this book.

[Karen Townsend · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars.
I so wanted to love this book like I did the others in the series. This one felt a bit clunky. And there were typos throughout. It just felt a little off.
Having said that, I loved the slow burn with Zay and Yasmine. While they both had personal struggles and insecurities, their approach to one another was lovely.

[LATO · Rating 4 out of 5]

Please proofread carefully

Enjoyed the story but there were issues with timelines of events.
I guessed that Red Velvet cake would be the next tasty tray and if a Valentine’s Day story is on the works , please reread carefully.

[Jasmine Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

By far my favorite of these 3 novellas! 2 very confident characters who must learn how to be vulnerable. I didn’t expect the hometown twist nor how the relationship would unfold but I enjoyed the ride and the guest appearance of the characters from book 2! Happy New Year!