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Briarwood High #6
The Candy Cane Kiss
Fake kisses shouldn't taste so sweet.
When the new star quarterback at Briarwood High winds up in the hospital over Christmas break, he's sure that's as bad as it can get.
He's wrong. His day is about to get so much worse. First he's stuck with that irritating new girl from school who's currenly dressed as a holly jolly Christmas elf as she volunteers on his floor. Then his ex shows up and asks his permission to bring her new boyfriend to his family's Christmas party, and then...well, then he makes it all a million times worse by kissing the closest girl at hand, who just happens to be that weirdo candy striper with a penchant for Grandma cardigans and candy-cane striped tights. She also happens to be the only girl at Briarwood who doesn't like him. He couldn't have chosen a worse fake girlfriend if he'd tried. So the question is...if this relationship is all wrong, why does it feel so right?
Lola is a self-proclaimed freak and a military brat just waiting to graduate so she can take the first bus out of Briarwood. She's also more than a little obsessed with all things retro. Including swing dancing. The only problem? Swing dancing requires a partner. Where on earth is she supposed to find a willing dance partner in the sea of conformist mediocrity that is her new high school? Fortunately for her, the arrogant jerk in the hospital bed needs her more than she needs him if he stands any chance of winning back his ex. So yeah, she'll help him. For a price. But the closer they get, the more she hates the idea of handing him over to his perfect ex, and the more she has to wonder. Will she be the one paying the price...with a broken heart?
When the new star quarterback at Briarwood High winds up in the hospital over Christmas break, he's sure that's as bad as it can get.
He's wrong. His day is about to get so much worse. First he's stuck with that irritating new girl from school who's currenly dressed as a holly jolly Christmas elf as she volunteers on his floor. Then his ex shows up and asks his permission to bring her new boyfriend to his family's Christmas party, and then...well, then he makes it all a million times worse by kissing the closest girl at hand, who just happens to be that weirdo candy striper with a penchant for Grandma cardigans and candy-cane striped tights. She also happens to be the only girl at Briarwood who doesn't like him. He couldn't have chosen a worse fake girlfriend if he'd tried. So the question is...if this relationship is all wrong, why does it feel so right?
Lola is a self-proclaimed freak and a military brat just waiting to graduate so she can take the first bus out of Briarwood. She's also more than a little obsessed with all things retro. Including swing dancing. The only problem? Swing dancing requires a partner. Where on earth is she supposed to find a willing dance partner in the sea of conformist mediocrity that is her new high school? Fortunately for her, the arrogant jerk in the hospital bed needs her more than she needs him if he stands any chance of winning back his ex. So yeah, she'll help him. For a price. But the closer they get, the more she hates the idea of handing him over to his perfect ex, and the more she has to wonder. Will she be the one paying the price...with a broken heart?
169 pages, ebook
Published November 1, 2018
378 people are currently reading
403 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 73 reviews
December 22, 2019
Wow first time I’m reading a book from this author and I’m instantly in love with her writing, her characters and her plot!
Maggie Dallen has an amazing way to showing both a girl’s and guy’s weakness from the inside of their minds. It was amazing to see the thoughts and quirks of both the weird, retro girl and the cocky, jerk jock. Both are two very different people but who are also humans and have their own sensitive side of things. Not to also mention that they both have strong fighting spirit that I love!
So, we have Lola, who is a girl who loves anything from the 50s. Movies, dresses, even hair accessories. So she is basically Simeón very different and quirky. She volunteers at the hospital and when she arrives to the jock who is injured in her candy cane outfit, she will not expect to meet a very grumpy jock who will bring out a feisty, fighting spirited girl out.
Lucas is miserable, during Christmas break he is stuck in hospital and has to deal with the quirkiest of the weird Candy Cane girl who tries to make his life lively. But an encounter with Lola and his ex girlfriend, as them both, Lola and Lucas thrown into a fake-relationship that will help him win back his ex.
But what will happen when fake moves, begin to seem real for one of them? Will they be willing to accept that they both come from very different worlds and give it a chance?
Such an amazing piece of art. I loved the raw emotions and thoughts that flowed through the characters heads. I loved how real they were, including the side characters. It was a delightful novel.
I now must read the other books in this series!
Maggie Dallen has an amazing way to showing both a girl’s and guy’s weakness from the inside of their minds. It was amazing to see the thoughts and quirks of both the weird, retro girl and the cocky, jerk jock. Both are two very different people but who are also humans and have their own sensitive side of things. Not to also mention that they both have strong fighting spirit that I love!
So, we have Lola, who is a girl who loves anything from the 50s. Movies, dresses, even hair accessories. So she is basically Simeón very different and quirky. She volunteers at the hospital and when she arrives to the jock who is injured in her candy cane outfit, she will not expect to meet a very grumpy jock who will bring out a feisty, fighting spirited girl out.
Lucas is miserable, during Christmas break he is stuck in hospital and has to deal with the quirkiest of the weird Candy Cane girl who tries to make his life lively. But an encounter with Lola and his ex girlfriend, as them both, Lola and Lucas thrown into a fake-relationship that will help him win back his ex.
But what will happen when fake moves, begin to seem real for one of them? Will they be willing to accept that they both come from very different worlds and give it a chance?
Such an amazing piece of art. I loved the raw emotions and thoughts that flowed through the characters heads. I loved how real they were, including the side characters. It was a delightful novel.
I now must read the other books in this series!
December 28, 2019
My Review: 4 Stars
I'm all about characters who are unique and can be true to themselves and that's just how Lola is. She's quirky and has a style all her own (hello, retro?), but this girl has a heart of gold and doesn't seem to care about things that other teens do. What a breath of fresh air! A funny first meet with her complete and total opposite, a jerk, I mean jock, from her school opens the door for all sorts of hilarious trouble. Lucas needs Lola, and Lola needs Lucas...for different reasons, but a fake relationship with each other is exactly what results.
I'm way past my teen years, but my inner teen loved this story and the way it played out. There were so many instances when things weren't as they seemed and I loved watching these young characters overcome prejudices to accept what is real and different.
This Christmas story is randomly sprinkled with angsty complications, but the overall feeling is sweet and simple. This is just the type of feel-good story that will appeal to teen readers, or the young at heart.
Content: moderate language (one or two more crass words, but mostly a lot of one mild word), mild romance
I'm all about characters who are unique and can be true to themselves and that's just how Lola is. She's quirky and has a style all her own (hello, retro?), but this girl has a heart of gold and doesn't seem to care about things that other teens do. What a breath of fresh air! A funny first meet with her complete and total opposite, a jerk, I mean jock, from her school opens the door for all sorts of hilarious trouble. Lucas needs Lola, and Lola needs Lucas...for different reasons, but a fake relationship with each other is exactly what results.
I'm way past my teen years, but my inner teen loved this story and the way it played out. There were so many instances when things weren't as they seemed and I loved watching these young characters overcome prejudices to accept what is real and different.
This Christmas story is randomly sprinkled with angsty complications, but the overall feeling is sweet and simple. This is just the type of feel-good story that will appeal to teen readers, or the young at heart.
Content: moderate language (one or two more crass words, but mostly a lot of one mild word), mild romance
November 15, 2019
https://celebrityreaders.com/2019/11/...
4.5 stars — OK, so the oddest thing is that this book contained a jerk hero too, and yet I loved it so much more than the previous book I just finished reading. I mean, I was worried when I started it and Lucas was HARSH with a capital HAR. And not just in his meanspirited taunts and comments, but inner thoughts as well. But the thing this book got right is that there was depth to him…there was guilt when he said these things when he thought he hurt her, he was just kind of a selfish guy so his own emotional moments trumped others. I’m still not completely sold on the mean people suddenly being less mean thing (Blake anyone?)…something felt a bit too easy in there. I’m not sure if it was unreliable narrators in Lucas and Lola, but something just wasn’t quite believable. Hence why it’s not bumped up a half star (though part of me wants to anyways) (and apparently I will by the end of this review).
But I did buy some of Lucas’s transition. Was it fast? You bet…it was YA fast, you know? Just like their feelings were fast. But if you can set that aside, I feel like Lola challenging Lucas really was what he needed to get out of his own head and stuff. Somehow this author just made it work.
And the thing I loved was that it wasn’t Lola is the best and somehow “fixed” Lucas. She had her own hangups, and even though they were being a bit mean to each other, I loved when they each called the other on their shit. I loved how it made them both open their eyes to how they could be better. They truly were a couple that was better together, that brought out the best in one another.
And I really loved Lola. I totally agreed with Lucas’s observations of her holding herself back and above others, but I loved that she didn’t change who she was intrinsically. She still loved what she loved and wouldn’t let anyone get to her. Her backbone was surprisingly admirable. There were so many moments where someone was mocking her, and I would have been crying, but she just like burns them back in a different way. It was kind of great.
And the two of them together…while it took me a minute to get over them teasing each other because I’m a sensitive soul, I kind of loved that they had that snarky banter together. And I truly felt their chemistry. I truly believed Lucas came to care for her, and that she saw past his flaws to the more inside.
Some interesting secondary characters, from friends to ex-girlfriends to Lola’s epic Grandpa.
Ah screw it. I’m going to bump this up to 4.5. While there were moments that made me cringe, I was really impressed with how the author massaged all of that and made me believe in their redemption. That deserves an extra half a star.
4.5 stars — OK, so the oddest thing is that this book contained a jerk hero too, and yet I loved it so much more than the previous book I just finished reading. I mean, I was worried when I started it and Lucas was HARSH with a capital HAR. And not just in his meanspirited taunts and comments, but inner thoughts as well. But the thing this book got right is that there was depth to him…there was guilt when he said these things when he thought he hurt her, he was just kind of a selfish guy so his own emotional moments trumped others. I’m still not completely sold on the mean people suddenly being less mean thing (Blake anyone?)…something felt a bit too easy in there. I’m not sure if it was unreliable narrators in Lucas and Lola, but something just wasn’t quite believable. Hence why it’s not bumped up a half star (though part of me wants to anyways) (and apparently I will by the end of this review).
But I did buy some of Lucas’s transition. Was it fast? You bet…it was YA fast, you know? Just like their feelings were fast. But if you can set that aside, I feel like Lola challenging Lucas really was what he needed to get out of his own head and stuff. Somehow this author just made it work.
And the thing I loved was that it wasn’t Lola is the best and somehow “fixed” Lucas. She had her own hangups, and even though they were being a bit mean to each other, I loved when they each called the other on their shit. I loved how it made them both open their eyes to how they could be better. They truly were a couple that was better together, that brought out the best in one another.
And I really loved Lola. I totally agreed with Lucas’s observations of her holding herself back and above others, but I loved that she didn’t change who she was intrinsically. She still loved what she loved and wouldn’t let anyone get to her. Her backbone was surprisingly admirable. There were so many moments where someone was mocking her, and I would have been crying, but she just like burns them back in a different way. It was kind of great.
And the two of them together…while it took me a minute to get over them teasing each other because I’m a sensitive soul, I kind of loved that they had that snarky banter together. And I truly felt their chemistry. I truly believed Lucas came to care for her, and that she saw past his flaws to the more inside.
Some interesting secondary characters, from friends to ex-girlfriends to Lola’s epic Grandpa.
Ah screw it. I’m going to bump this up to 4.5. While there were moments that made me cringe, I was really impressed with how the author massaged all of that and made me believe in their redemption. That deserves an extra half a star.
February 18, 2019
***Candy Cane had something to do with her stocking “Christmas stocking” .... which was Lucas nickname for her... 🙌🏽
I’m not going to say too much, but this story was cute. I don’t get the Christmas stories. I guess it always has to be one every Christmas when it comes to series. Which sucks. But in the end, this book was still good and interesting enough!
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2019...
•••***** JUST GOING TO ADD SPOILERS HERE AND THERE******•••
So, Lucas and Lola are two complete opposites. But they both made one another happy. She even him out as well as he did for her. You always need that one person in your life who change you for the better. That was Lucas for Lola and Lola for Lucas. See Eleanor didn’t do that for Lucas, same as he didn’t do it for her. He didn’t care for Eleanor as he did for Lola... he showed feeling for Lola: Even Eleanor and her friend Blake seem to understand and see that his feeling for both girls was different. Lola, I am kind of like her minus the clothing that she wears. She’s a loner and doesn’t care what others think and what they think about her. She has her own mind and do what she wants and sees fit. She was dressing the way she wants and didn’t care that Blake or even Lucas like her style. Up until he learns to LOVE her, her weirdness, and her style. Even Eleanor and Blake began to like her and her style. More so that had something to do with Lucas. Especially when it came to swing dancing... I can’t see myself doing that dance, but it does seem like something fun to do. Especially if you someone that’s a loner., you can go out and meet those who are into the same thing as you. That is what Lola did; even though she had Lucas and his friends with her. I like in the end he finally admitted to her (Lola) that he liked (no LOVE) her and actually wanted to kiss her (not because Eleanor was just there)... and they ended up making the dance into her retro vintage style (as everyone call it “old lady clothing”) .... they ended up accepting her and her style. Which was cool!
I’m not going to say too much, but this story was cute. I don’t get the Christmas stories. I guess it always has to be one every Christmas when it comes to series. Which sucks. But in the end, this book was still good and interesting enough!
https://ladiikeiii.wordpress.com/2019...
•••***** JUST GOING TO ADD SPOILERS HERE AND THERE******•••
So, Lucas and Lola are two complete opposites. But they both made one another happy. She even him out as well as he did for her. You always need that one person in your life who change you for the better. That was Lucas for Lola and Lola for Lucas. See Eleanor didn’t do that for Lucas, same as he didn’t do it for her. He didn’t care for Eleanor as he did for Lola... he showed feeling for Lola: Even Eleanor and her friend Blake seem to understand and see that his feeling for both girls was different. Lola, I am kind of like her minus the clothing that she wears. She’s a loner and doesn’t care what others think and what they think about her. She has her own mind and do what she wants and sees fit. She was dressing the way she wants and didn’t care that Blake or even Lucas like her style. Up until he learns to LOVE her, her weirdness, and her style. Even Eleanor and Blake began to like her and her style. More so that had something to do with Lucas. Especially when it came to swing dancing... I can’t see myself doing that dance, but it does seem like something fun to do. Especially if you someone that’s a loner., you can go out and meet those who are into the same thing as you. That is what Lola did; even though she had Lucas and his friends with her. I like in the end he finally admitted to her (Lola) that he liked (no LOVE) her and actually wanted to kiss her (not because Eleanor was just there)... and they ended up making the dance into her retro vintage style (as everyone call it “old lady clothing”) .... they ended up accepting her and her style. Which was cool!
December 13, 2018
Lucas and Lola are a mismatched pair, thrown together by circumstance. Their attraction is definitely not instant, in fact, it doesn't even exist in the beginning.
Lucas is cocky, arrogant and even a little annoying, but he has a bit of a wake-up call, starts to see himself in a new light and realize his mistakes. And Lola manages to bring out the very best in him.
I loved the slow burn between these two. Their reluctance to admit their feelings and the fun teasing along the way. A light-hearted and real teen romance.
Lucas is cocky, arrogant and even a little annoying, but he has a bit of a wake-up call, starts to see himself in a new light and realize his mistakes. And Lola manages to bring out the very best in him.
I loved the slow burn between these two. Their reluctance to admit their feelings and the fun teasing along the way. A light-hearted and real teen romance.
December 15, 2020
i wish i didn’t love fake dating, christmas, and cliche jock x nerd stories so much because it’s embarrassing how much i loved this. this was so bad it was glorious. it was like to all the boys i’ve loved before without the personality and culture, half the story, and double the cringe. absolutely wonderful. please give me this life. i would love a hot man to fall in love with my nerdy self.
November 25, 2018
https://celebrityreaders.com/2018/11/...
This book ya’ll! OMG, it was super cute! Just….::shakes hands in the air:: ugh, so good.
Favorite Quotes:
I found myself staring at her lips, willing her to lose the battle. Willing her smile to come back. I wanted to see that smile again, and I wanted it bad. Even weirder, I wanted to hear her sigh my name again in the worst way.
When Lucas walked in, the world burst into Technicolor. This was the way it always was with Lucas. The colors in the room became more vivid, the air crackled with his restless energy, and his eyes met mine with a physical jolt.
First of all, this cover. Isn’t it soooo stinking cute? I love it.
Lola is a keeps to herself kinda girl. Doens’t want to be noticed by anyone so much that she intentionally rebuffs all attempts from potentional friends. I can understand her POV a little bit as she does have some quirkyness about her and she moves around a lot due to her military father. She sticks her nose up all the popular kids, intead of getting to know them, she assumes they are all lemmings and wouldn’t know originality if it was a stick they were hit with. I don’t know if she was spurned by someone and just gave up on everybody or if she genuinly believes that about people. Either way, it’s a bit close minded. But what she lacks in friendliness, she makes up for in talent, determination and caring. It may take a while to get her to let down her walls, but its worth it.
Enter Lucas. He is a bit stereotypical… confident, good looking quarterback and slightly self-centered. Okay may more than slightly, which just feeds in to Lola’s image of the popular kids. But when they make a deal for each other’s benefit, hot damn sparks soar! I love the way their feelings are written in this story. They seem so genuine. Their relationship flows effortlessly and we don’t get any unwanted intentional misunderstandings that usually come around in a YA romance. Their flirty banter is just heart melting. I smiled and laughed a lot throughout this novella. I wish it had been longer. Hmmm, maybe I’ll just read it again.
This book ya’ll! OMG, it was super cute! Just….::shakes hands in the air:: ugh, so good.
Favorite Quotes:
I found myself staring at her lips, willing her to lose the battle. Willing her smile to come back. I wanted to see that smile again, and I wanted it bad. Even weirder, I wanted to hear her sigh my name again in the worst way.
When Lucas walked in, the world burst into Technicolor. This was the way it always was with Lucas. The colors in the room became more vivid, the air crackled with his restless energy, and his eyes met mine with a physical jolt.
First of all, this cover. Isn’t it soooo stinking cute? I love it.
Lola is a keeps to herself kinda girl. Doens’t want to be noticed by anyone so much that she intentionally rebuffs all attempts from potentional friends. I can understand her POV a little bit as she does have some quirkyness about her and she moves around a lot due to her military father. She sticks her nose up all the popular kids, intead of getting to know them, she assumes they are all lemmings and wouldn’t know originality if it was a stick they were hit with. I don’t know if she was spurned by someone and just gave up on everybody or if she genuinly believes that about people. Either way, it’s a bit close minded. But what she lacks in friendliness, she makes up for in talent, determination and caring. It may take a while to get her to let down her walls, but its worth it.
Enter Lucas. He is a bit stereotypical… confident, good looking quarterback and slightly self-centered. Okay may more than slightly, which just feeds in to Lola’s image of the popular kids. But when they make a deal for each other’s benefit, hot damn sparks soar! I love the way their feelings are written in this story. They seem so genuine. Their relationship flows effortlessly and we don’t get any unwanted intentional misunderstandings that usually come around in a YA romance. Their flirty banter is just heart melting. I smiled and laughed a lot throughout this novella. I wish it had been longer. Hmmm, maybe I’ll just read it again.
December 22, 2018
I started reading this book and felt it was a typical YA book... I was rather annoyed with the characters at first, but as the story progressed I saw the changes in the characters and I started to really enjoy the book and the story. There was some profanity that I felt wasn’t needed, but it could’ve been a lot worse.
April 16, 2022
Why you gotta be so cuuteeeee?! Haha loved this!
November 3, 2018
You couldn’t get two more different personality types together... he’s one of the most popular guys in school, she’s a nerdy 🤓 retro-style girl with no friends. He’s grumpy. She’s cheerful. He’s all about image. She couldn’t care less about hers. He needs her... she doesn’t need him. He’s desperate for her help...
-‘I wanted to take away her happiness and make her as miserable as I was. But seeing her shock and her embarrassment didn’t make me feel better. Before she’d arrived I’d felt like a pitiful washed-up loser, and now I felt like a pitiful, washed-up loser who made nerdy girls cry.’-
-‘The girl might be a nutjob but she had killer curves.’-
Reminiscent of Cookie O’Gorman’s work, this story will definitely attract teenage audiences. The main characters are in high school and the lingo is definitely set for that audience. Some pretty strong language but nothing too inflammatory or offensive. Fast-paced and alternating points of view between the characters keep the audience’s attention. A recommended read for the target audience.
-‘I wanted to take away her happiness and make her as miserable as I was. But seeing her shock and her embarrassment didn’t make me feel better. Before she’d arrived I’d felt like a pitiful washed-up loser, and now I felt like a pitiful, washed-up loser who made nerdy girls cry.’-
-‘The girl might be a nutjob but she had killer curves.’-
Reminiscent of Cookie O’Gorman’s work, this story will definitely attract teenage audiences. The main characters are in high school and the lingo is definitely set for that audience. Some pretty strong language but nothing too inflammatory or offensive. Fast-paced and alternating points of view between the characters keep the audience’s attention. A recommended read for the target audience.
January 22, 2019
I don't like to give bad reviews, so I'm just going to say this book just wasn't for me. I needed romance and this just didn't cut it for me. I felt like he was a jerk and she was a little stuck up, and it was like I was reliving a high school moment which was a little totureous. Like what made him think that whatever he decides is "cool" will be what everyone in the school does!?! Ugh like I said high school flashbacks. I get that I was reading YA, but it could have been a cute holiday romance not a high school ego parade for a guy that thinks he's king of the school. The writing was fine and the grandpa in the story was enjoyable, but that's not enough for me.
December 12, 2023
This was a cute fake romance turned real kind of story. Is it clique that the boy is a popular jock and the girl is the outcase weirdo? Yeah. Is it a story that we've read/watched time and time again? Yes. However, if it ain't broke don't fix it. Plus, I really liked that Lola was an old soul that liked dressing in "retro" clothes, listening to the oldies (and NO, I am NOT talking about the 90's), and watches old style movies with her grandpa. She was such a wholesome character that it was hard not to find the interaction between her and Lucas adorable.
Like all good fake romances, the lines begin to blur over time as each person catches feelings for the other. Watching these two go about their business in complete denial was actually not as annoying as I sometimes find it to be. Usually I'm ready to scream and chuck the book, but these two were just so innocent in it all. Not to mention, that even when they hadn't fully come to terms with their feelings, they were still very considerate towards the other person and you could just see that they had a bond that they hadn't quite realized.
While this is the 6th book in a series, it didn't read as if it was part of a series. In fact, I don't know if any of the characters introduced in this book were from the previous books. Usually, you get the feeling that you are supposed to know someone, but that wasn't the case with this at all. So, if you are looking for an adorable holiday romance young adult book, you should give this a read.
Like all good fake romances, the lines begin to blur over time as each person catches feelings for the other. Watching these two go about their business in complete denial was actually not as annoying as I sometimes find it to be. Usually I'm ready to scream and chuck the book, but these two were just so innocent in it all. Not to mention, that even when they hadn't fully come to terms with their feelings, they were still very considerate towards the other person and you could just see that they had a bond that they hadn't quite realized.
While this is the 6th book in a series, it didn't read as if it was part of a series. In fact, I don't know if any of the characters introduced in this book were from the previous books. Usually, you get the feeling that you are supposed to know someone, but that wasn't the case with this at all. So, if you are looking for an adorable holiday romance young adult book, you should give this a read.
February 3, 2024
Why is no one talking about Lola? Lucas is a jerk ok, that’s his character but Lola is described as being ‘bubbly’ and like ‘sunshine’….and yet she’s neither of those things. From the very start, she’s glaring and talking back and being all ‘fierce’ and ‘feisty’ and it’s like huh? Is this the same character? She isn’t nice at all, she acts stuck up and complains about everyone else when she doesn’t really even TRY to fit in. The author used Lucas to make us believe she was nice without putting in the effort to SHOW us she was nice (‘I got the feeling this was the real Lola. This is what she’s like most of the time’) when she was literally being all snappy a moment ago. Just show me on page, hello? I wanna SEE her be nice. The cringiest part of this book though is when the author plays into the ‘not like other girls’/‘I’m different’ trope except she gets Lola to say it about herself. I diiiied when I read that, that was a literal ick. Like no.
I don’t know, I just didn’t like the characters so didn’t care about the romance. I had to stop reading and then come back a little later to get rid of the irritation literally bubbling up in me every time I had to read these two on page.
And also the author keeps describing the ML as this giant hulk of a man…when he’s sixteen. They’re literal kids which was jarring cos the way this was written seemed more college-esque especially with the amount of sexual innuendos and references made. The image the author was tryna paint would have been more appropriate AND believable if they were in college.
I don’t know, I just didn’t like the characters so didn’t care about the romance. I had to stop reading and then come back a little later to get rid of the irritation literally bubbling up in me every time I had to read these two on page.
And also the author keeps describing the ML as this giant hulk of a man…when he’s sixteen. They’re literal kids which was jarring cos the way this was written seemed more college-esque especially with the amount of sexual innuendos and references made. The image the author was tryna paint would have been more appropriate AND believable if they were in college.
November 8, 2018
My absolute favorite YA romance author, Maggie Dallen, is back with a new book and it’s time to celebrate. The Candy Cane Kiss is the sixth in her Briarwood High series of novels that are uncanny in being able to channel how I remember teenage romance (and angst) to be. It’s also a simply wonderfully fun story. I love it’s star Lola and wish that in my high school days I could have been both as free-spirited and as strong in character as she is. I also loved how Lucas grew over the course of the pages and that the other main supporting characters from Lola’s mom to her grandpa to Eleanor and Blake were so well drawn. This is especially true of the latter two. It’s so unusually refreshing to see an ex-girlfriend character still be a decent and kind person, or to have a “mean girl” who is emotionally complex and has a strong “good” side, but this author pulls off both in style. Frankly, but for the fact that I’m literally dictating this review to my husband from my hospital bed, I could go on and on with praises. This book definitely deserves it. Since I can’t do that I will simply note that the book is most definitely one to read, and that it is (super) easy to highly recommend. I’m definitely looking forward to the next book in the Briarwood High series.
February 20, 2019
>Book Review – The Candy Cane Kiss
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 6th book in the Briarwood High series and ends in an HEA. Lucas is the popular QB, in the hospital to rehab from arm surgery. Lola is the candy striper who visits him in the hospital to spread holiday cheer. Lucas kisses Lola in order to make his ex jealous. Then he decides to ask Lola to play his pretend girlfriend in order to win his ex back. Lola is an army brat, used to moving a lot and being the new girl at school. She has a distinct retro style that kind of keeps her flying under the radar.
>Of course the fake relationship will turn real, but it is the transformation of Lucas that is really the highlight of the book. I love the addition of the swing dancing, as this dancing is not a usual topic in a book. This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. Lucas was a bit too mean to Lola at times. Their HEA was great, but he was very hurtful.
>I am an independent reviewer. This book is the 6th book in the Briarwood High series and ends in an HEA. Lucas is the popular QB, in the hospital to rehab from arm surgery. Lola is the candy striper who visits him in the hospital to spread holiday cheer. Lucas kisses Lola in order to make his ex jealous. Then he decides to ask Lola to play his pretend girlfriend in order to win his ex back. Lola is an army brat, used to moving a lot and being the new girl at school. She has a distinct retro style that kind of keeps her flying under the radar.
>Of course the fake relationship will turn real, but it is the transformation of Lucas that is really the highlight of the book. I love the addition of the swing dancing, as this dancing is not a usual topic in a book. This book is appropriate for a young adult (16+) audience. I am giving this book 4 stars. Lucas was a bit too mean to Lola at times. Their HEA was great, but he was very hurtful.
November 6, 2018
Maggie Dallen has done it again I love this series and this book is too cute. Lucas the star quarterback is stuck in the hospital over Christmas brake lamenting over his ex girlfriend moving on looking for a way to get her back. Lola a lover of all things retro is volunteering at the hospital as a candy striper was too cute and gave a good as she got when Lucas was being a jerk to her which was a lot at the beginning and didn’t let him walk all over her which made her my favorite character. After finally agreeing to help Lucas for a favor in return things go from fake to feeling a lot more real but when their time come closer to the end will they share their feelings for each other in the end. Loved it and loved Lola’s character who didn’t let anyone maker her feel bad about her style and what she like and Lucas well that epilogue swoon he sure made up for his past as a jerk.
November 13, 2018
Lucas is the popular star quarter and Lola is the new nerdy girl who has a passion for older style clothes. They meet in the hospital over Christmas break when Lucas is admitted for a shoulder injury he got playing football and Lola is a candy-striper assigned to his floor. Lucas is devastated that he not only injured his shoulder, but his girlfriend broke up with him...needless to say Lucas is in no mood to deal with the overly chipper, candy cane looking girl that comes to his hospital room to try and cheer him up! Things start off on a sour note for them, but things quickly change when Lola agrees to be his pretend girlfriend to make his ex jealous, in exchange Lucas must got to a swing dancing event with Lola...then they will "break up" and no one will be the wise of their scam! Unfortunately, things do not go as planned! Great YA read! Good characters and story line!
January 6, 2020
This book is definitely something fluffy to read this holiday season. It also is a high school romance that has some moral lessons about being in relationship so if thats interesting to you I recommend this to you. • I appreciated the writing style that the author presented. Having multiple point of views was really helpful plus it felt that the characters were both unique. • It was interesting also that the meet cute setting was really unexpected. • The best part about this book is that it tells the readers that being different is ok and that defying the status quo makes some people come alive and that's amazing and I appreciated it truly.
Overall, this is a fantastic novel if you need some Christmas romance in your life because of these points I'm going to rate this a 4-4.5 out of 5 stars.
Overall, this is a fantastic novel if you need some Christmas romance in your life because of these points I'm going to rate this a 4-4.5 out of 5 stars.
December 13, 2021
Reread 12/12/21
I met her gaze and realized she was also not about to cry, thank God. That wasn’t humiliation that had made her cheeks burn.
She was pissed
How did I know? That vengeful light in her eyes was the first thing to tip me off. The second? She took my pudding.
I repeat, the girl took my pudding!
She snatched it right off of the end table and tossed it into the garbage even though it was nearly full.
“What did you do that for?”
She widened her eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry, were you still eating that? I figured since you were so busy leering at my butt and tossing our insults, you must have finished your meal.”
She blinked once and any hint of anger was gone, replaced by a too-sweet innocence that would have fooled anyone but me.
What was the big deal about having friends anyway? Why was the world so focused on fitting in? I’d never fit in. Anywhere.
“Thank you, sir, but I was actually hoping to speak privately with…Dolly.”
I glared at my grandfather as he tried and failed to stifle a laugh.
I spun around and saw that Lucas was also struggling to contain his amusement. I jabbed a finger in his direction. “Call me that again and I’ll string Christmas lights all over your room.”
That had my grandfather laughing for real now but Lucas widened his eyes with feigned innocence. “Sorry…Lola, was it?”
Then she stuck out a hand toward Ryan. “Hi, I’m Lola. I don’t think we’ve met.”
Ryan blinked and studied Lola a little too closely for my liking. What, lusting after one of my girlfriends wasn’t enough for this guy?
I didn’t realize I’d tightened my grip until Lola glanced up at me, a question in her eyes. Not just a question. She looked concerned.
“What can I say? My girl loves to swing dance and I can’t let her dance with anyone but me, now can I?”
She rolled her eyes. “Please, I’ve been dancing with other guys for years. I’ve won competitions without your help, thank you very much.”
I pretended to be hurt, but then I pulled her tightly against me. “I know, babe, but I don’t like the idea of any other guy holding you in his arms.”
What was it El had said? Lola made me want to be a better person. Freakin’ hell, she was right. I wanted to do right by Lola. I wanted to make her feel wanted, like she belonged somewhere.
Like she belonged with me.
And I was absolutely certain I’d never loved anyone or anything as much as I loved her.
The realization didn’t shock me like it should, probably because I’d been coming to the realization for a little while now.
I first read this last year and knew that I would be rereading it very soon. Two very different personalities come together. Lola, the lonely retro girl, and Lucas, the popular star quarterback who is a jerk until a certain someone comes into his life. I love that Lola brings a caring and kind side of Lucas and I love that Lucas brings the side of living life out of Lola. They maybe two completely different people, but they certainly fit well together. 5 candy canes.
********************************************************
Read 10/23/21
Swing dance. The Lindy Hop, the East Coast Swing, Modern Jive-I loved them all.
I’d always liked retro stuff. I wasn’t going to justify myself to this guy. Blame it on the fact that my grandfather was my best friend but I’d always had a thing for all things forties and fifties.
I held onto her like she was my lifeline to sanity, and that’s exactly how it felt. For one crazy, bizarre moment, I was tossed around in a sea of confusion. Up was down and left was right. Elanor was my friend and Lola was my girl, and for one crazy moment that seemed normal. Real. It felt right.
It was the look a real girlfriend would give. It was the look Lola would give if she were really my girlfriend. I freakin’ loved that look.
“I think you’ve done what you’ve had to do to get by. You’ve found what makes you happy, and that takes courage.”
The fact that she didn’t care what anyone thought made her the coolest girl I knew.
“I add a little crazy to your sane world.” Her voice was teasing, but she was right. When she’d arrived at the door she’d been a splash of color against a backdrop of black and greys.
Crap, crap, crappity crap.
When Lucas walked in, the world burst into Technicolor. This was the way it always was with Lucas. The colors in the room became more vivid, the air crackled with his restless energy, and his eyes met mine with a physical jolt.
As I stood and gaped, Lucas headed over to a small stereo I hadn’t noticed on a side table. He hit a button and Glenn Miller’s Moonlight Serenade came on, romantic and old-fashioned, and just pretty much me to a tee.
Oh sugar cane! I love this book. Yes, Lucas drove me crazy at times with his cocky, jerk attitude. After he got over that, he was incredibly cute and sweet. And Lola! I relate to Lola so much. I love the 1920-1950s music, dances and fashion style. My favorite song is Moonlight Serenade by Glenn Miller and I freaked out during that scene in the book. I love watching Lucas and Lola fall for each other. I adore the 1920-1950s references. Oh and the reference to Grease! Yes, I love Grease. It’s one of my favorite movies. I need more YA/YN books that reference that time era. The banter between Lucas and Lola. I freaking adore Lola’s relationship with her Grandfather. In fact, I’m jealous. I lost one of my grandfathers in November 2011 and it was and still incredibly hard to deal with. My other grandfather lives 45 minutes to an hour away from me so I don’t get to see him often. It’s hard enough already, but when it’s around this time of year, it’s very difficult to deal with. The side characters were great too. This book was fantastic and it was a cute and fun Christmas book. 5 stars.
I met her gaze and realized she was also not about to cry, thank God. That wasn’t humiliation that had made her cheeks burn.
She was pissed
How did I know? That vengeful light in her eyes was the first thing to tip me off. The second? She took my pudding.
I repeat, the girl took my pudding!
She snatched it right off of the end table and tossed it into the garbage even though it was nearly full.
“What did you do that for?”
She widened her eyes. “Oh, I’m sorry, were you still eating that? I figured since you were so busy leering at my butt and tossing our insults, you must have finished your meal.”
She blinked once and any hint of anger was gone, replaced by a too-sweet innocence that would have fooled anyone but me.
What was the big deal about having friends anyway? Why was the world so focused on fitting in? I’d never fit in. Anywhere.
“Thank you, sir, but I was actually hoping to speak privately with…Dolly.”
I glared at my grandfather as he tried and failed to stifle a laugh.
I spun around and saw that Lucas was also struggling to contain his amusement. I jabbed a finger in his direction. “Call me that again and I’ll string Christmas lights all over your room.”
That had my grandfather laughing for real now but Lucas widened his eyes with feigned innocence. “Sorry…Lola, was it?”
Then she stuck out a hand toward Ryan. “Hi, I’m Lola. I don’t think we’ve met.”
Ryan blinked and studied Lola a little too closely for my liking. What, lusting after one of my girlfriends wasn’t enough for this guy?
I didn’t realize I’d tightened my grip until Lola glanced up at me, a question in her eyes. Not just a question. She looked concerned.
“What can I say? My girl loves to swing dance and I can’t let her dance with anyone but me, now can I?”
She rolled her eyes. “Please, I’ve been dancing with other guys for years. I’ve won competitions without your help, thank you very much.”
I pretended to be hurt, but then I pulled her tightly against me. “I know, babe, but I don’t like the idea of any other guy holding you in his arms.”
What was it El had said? Lola made me want to be a better person. Freakin’ hell, she was right. I wanted to do right by Lola. I wanted to make her feel wanted, like she belonged somewhere.
Like she belonged with me.
And I was absolutely certain I’d never loved anyone or anything as much as I loved her.
The realization didn’t shock me like it should, probably because I’d been coming to the realization for a little while now.
I first read this last year and knew that I would be rereading it very soon. Two very different personalities come together. Lola, the lonely retro girl, and Lucas, the popular star quarterback who is a jerk until a certain someone comes into his life. I love that Lola brings a caring and kind side of Lucas and I love that Lucas brings the side of living life out of Lola. They maybe two completely different people, but they certainly fit well together. 5 candy canes.
********************************************************
Read 10/23/21
Swing dance. The Lindy Hop, the East Coast Swing, Modern Jive-I loved them all.
I’d always liked retro stuff. I wasn’t going to justify myself to this guy. Blame it on the fact that my grandfather was my best friend but I’d always had a thing for all things forties and fifties.
I held onto her like she was my lifeline to sanity, and that’s exactly how it felt. For one crazy, bizarre moment, I was tossed around in a sea of confusion. Up was down and left was right. Elanor was my friend and Lola was my girl, and for one crazy moment that seemed normal. Real. It felt right.
It was the look a real girlfriend would give. It was the look Lola would give if she were really my girlfriend. I freakin’ loved that look.
“I think you’ve done what you’ve had to do to get by. You’ve found what makes you happy, and that takes courage.”
The fact that she didn’t care what anyone thought made her the coolest girl I knew.
“I add a little crazy to your sane world.” Her voice was teasing, but she was right. When she’d arrived at the door she’d been a splash of color against a backdrop of black and greys.
Crap, crap, crappity crap.
When Lucas walked in, the world burst into Technicolor. This was the way it always was with Lucas. The colors in the room became more vivid, the air crackled with his restless energy, and his eyes met mine with a physical jolt.
As I stood and gaped, Lucas headed over to a small stereo I hadn’t noticed on a side table. He hit a button and Glenn Miller’s Moonlight Serenade came on, romantic and old-fashioned, and just pretty much me to a tee.
Oh sugar cane! I love this book. Yes, Lucas drove me crazy at times with his cocky, jerk attitude. After he got over that, he was incredibly cute and sweet. And Lola! I relate to Lola so much. I love the 1920-1950s music, dances and fashion style. My favorite song is Moonlight Serenade by Glenn Miller and I freaked out during that scene in the book. I love watching Lucas and Lola fall for each other. I adore the 1920-1950s references. Oh and the reference to Grease! Yes, I love Grease. It’s one of my favorite movies. I need more YA/YN books that reference that time era. The banter between Lucas and Lola. I freaking adore Lola’s relationship with her Grandfather. In fact, I’m jealous. I lost one of my grandfathers in November 2011 and it was and still incredibly hard to deal with. My other grandfather lives 45 minutes to an hour away from me so I don’t get to see him often. It’s hard enough already, but when it’s around this time of year, it’s very difficult to deal with. The side characters were great too. This book was fantastic and it was a cute and fun Christmas book. 5 stars.
September 6, 2019
I'd never been noticed at school. Despite my weird style of dress, or maybe because of it, people tended not to notice me. They gave me a quick once-over, deemed me unfit to join in their reindeer games, and that was that.
The characters were really funny and endearing. Plus who doesn't love a good "fake" romance?!
I leaned down and added, "Don't tell anyone."
I watched her stifle a laugh before she gave me a too-innocent smile and spoke so loudly the neighbors could probably hear her over the thud of the music. "Don't tell anyone what? That you love Grease, the musical?"
The characters were really funny and endearing. Plus who doesn't love a good "fake" romance?!
I leaned down and added, "Don't tell anyone."
I watched her stifle a laugh before she gave me a too-innocent smile and spoke so loudly the neighbors could probably hear her over the thud of the music. "Don't tell anyone what? That you love Grease, the musical?"
November 8, 2018
ONE INCREDIBLY SWEET ADVENTURE!!!
Oh man, talk about a too cute for words. I love this little gem. Maggie really has a talent for spinning tales. All the twists and turns in this little treasure really make for one enjoyable experience. The characters are written with such realism it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. The scenes are so vividly detailed it's easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Maggie did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Fantastic job Maggie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
Oh man, talk about a too cute for words. I love this little gem. Maggie really has a talent for spinning tales. All the twists and turns in this little treasure really make for one enjoyable experience. The characters are written with such realism it really pulls this bad boy together beautifully. The scenes are so vividly detailed it's easy to picture each scenario as they play off one another in perfect balance. Maggie did a remarkable job bringing this read to life flawlessly. Fantastic job Maggie, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.
December 3, 2018
My first holiday themed book of the year was so cute! I loved the heroine, Lola! She was cute, quirky, and not afraid to be herself. The hero, Lucas, was the typical popular, egotistical jerk who thinks he’s all that and a bag of chips. His inner dialogue was great and I loved how he became aware of the way he’d acted in the past. All around sweet story to kick off the Christmas season. Maggie Dallens has become one of my favorite authors and I know I’ll always finish one of her books with a smile.
November 11, 2020
Here's another 3 star read because while I enjoyed the story, and finished it in a few hours, I wouldn't read it again. Lucas and Lola had their moments, and I'd have to say I loved how fiercely unique Lola was. She had her own style and didn't give a damn about what anyone thought. But this went from a very loose I don't like you situation to insta love they don't want to acknowledge. I have no problem with insta love, but there were a lot of moments I wish I had been a part of rather than was told about.
November 25, 2018
One impulsive act brings about a whole load of consequences. However, change isn't a bad thing as both Lucas and Lola find out. This is a young adult romance with a message and lessons to be learned. Navigating the teen years is difficult enough without having your life disrupted by circumstances or accidents. This is a well written sweet romance, one that can be read by most age groups and leaves one with a feel-good warmth in one's heart.
November 11, 2020
Fake to Real Love
This was the cutest quick read. Imagine being the star quarterback stuck in the hospital over Christmas break, injured, no family, no friends, and your girlfriend just broke up with you! In walks this weird Christmas obsessed candy-striper that doesn’t have time for your crap. What do you do...make a plan to get her to be your fake girlfriend together your old girlfriend back. Things may not end the way you want it.
This was the cutest quick read. Imagine being the star quarterback stuck in the hospital over Christmas break, injured, no family, no friends, and your girlfriend just broke up with you! In walks this weird Christmas obsessed candy-striper that doesn’t have time for your crap. What do you do...make a plan to get her to be your fake girlfriend together your old girlfriend back. Things may not end the way you want it.
November 20, 2020
This is a fluffy read, but a good one, a feel-good story. The main character evokes empathy from the reader...growing up an Army brat, moving often, and never fitting in. So she embraces that and becomes unique, unlike anyone else in school, which costs her friends. Then enter the hero who is just the opposite...jock, spoiled, snarky, and vain. It's interesting where the author takes the story from there.
December 2, 2021
While not terribly Christmassy, the cute romance more than made up for the lack of holiday feels. I love fake dating schemes, and the chemistry between Lola and Lucas was great. I loved that she wasn’t afraid to give attitude right back to him. Also, for a novella, there was a surprising amount of character growth. I didn’t like Lucas at all at first, but he turned out to be such a sweetheart!
November 8, 2018
I love this series! And these characters! Lola and Lucas are about as opposite as you can get! I love the spunk and feistiness that Lola has. Loved how she's not afraid to show her true self with what she likes. And Lucas...…...at first I wanted to throat punch him! But he did redeem himself! A very fun, sweet read!
November 9, 2018
Get ready for sweetness
It's that time of year. Where you find yourself reading cheesy and gushy holiday romances. Not a care that they are predictable and not really realistic. This is one of those and the read is so worth it. It's a feel good happy romance perfect for Hallmark movie lovers!!
It's that time of year. Where you find yourself reading cheesy and gushy holiday romances. Not a care that they are predictable and not really realistic. This is one of those and the read is so worth it. It's a feel good happy romance perfect for Hallmark movie lovers!!
November 18, 2018
I adore this series and The Candy Cane Kiss is an well written story with cute characters. I enjoy how the author introduced new characters and couples with each book keeping the series fresh and new.
I was a smidge disappointed with the pace of this book, but won't let that stop in continuing more of this series and other works from Maggie Dallen.
I was a smidge disappointed with the pace of this book, but won't let that stop in continuing more of this series and other works from Maggie Dallen.
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