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How to Ruin the Holidays
Alternate cover edition of ASIN B09LTN5NNL
After a disastrous family Thanksgiving, all I wanted was to avoid anything holly and jolly this year, so an unexpected business trip seemed like the perfect escape plan . . . until I landed smack dab in the middle of a freaking winter wonderland, otherwise known as Carole Cove, Montana. It’s merrier and brighter than the North Pole. The town even comes with its own Mr. Holiday—Noel Holiday, that is. Not only is he holly and jolly but he’s hotter than the lattes he sells at his café. And for some reason he would love nothing more than to share the magic of the season with me.
Unfortunately, this little trip of mine isn’t exactly filled with good cheer. But Noel’s kisses have a way of making me believe in Christmas miracles. And a miracle might be exactly what it takes to keep the holidays from being ruined forever.
After a disastrous family Thanksgiving, all I wanted was to avoid anything holly and jolly this year, so an unexpected business trip seemed like the perfect escape plan . . . until I landed smack dab in the middle of a freaking winter wonderland, otherwise known as Carole Cove, Montana. It’s merrier and brighter than the North Pole. The town even comes with its own Mr. Holiday—Noel Holiday, that is. Not only is he holly and jolly but he’s hotter than the lattes he sells at his café. And for some reason he would love nothing more than to share the magic of the season with me.
Unfortunately, this little trip of mine isn’t exactly filled with good cheer. But Noel’s kisses have a way of making me believe in Christmas miracles. And a miracle might be exactly what it takes to keep the holidays from being ruined forever.
226 pages, ebook
First published November 14, 2021
574 people are currently reading
2224 people want to read
About the author
Becky Monson
22 books1,288 followersBy day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 371 reviews
December 13, 2021
Now this is what a cute holiday romance is supposed to be! Lots of humor and real life characters and experiences. Well written. Highly recommended! 4.5 stars
December 16, 2022
This story has all the Christmas rom-com elements I enjoy during this season 🎄☃️🥰.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
Full review at LucyKnowsThings.com.
December 25, 2021
This turned out better than I thought it would, though not without some rocky bits. I liked Mara right away. I liked her quirks and that she was doing her best with a crappy family. Which is particularly hard when you work for your dad.
But Noel was really the one who drew me in. I mean, he's exactly my type—the strong, capable guy who takes care of the people he cares about (and he cares about a lot of people). And I liked seeing him become engaged with Mara and roll with her edges and push back on her in fun ways. They make a great couple and I liked seeing them develop a friendship that started with attraction and a similar sense of humor. I particularly enjoyed the things he does to get to know her better because they were subtle and often nothing more complicated than inviting her along while he takes care of a thing. This was both engaging and illuminating and I liked seeing it.
I was a bit worried when I realized what a big landmine was standing in their way. I anticipated a dumb dark moment because a couple of people had gone stupid, starting with Mara. Fortunately, Monson handled that a lot better than expected and made it interesting by not waiting for the last possible moment for things to come out. It was deftly done and I was pleased not to go through the exasperation I was braced for.
Not that it wasn't still a bit stupid on Mara's part. But it wasn't amped up to where I'd have a hard time believing it. I'm not sure I buy the entire fallout and pullback. And I hated that
So this is four stars, but mostly because I can rewrite a chunk of the ending in my head and thus ignore the deus ex patrina there at the finish.
A note about Chaste: This is a compressed timeline (a couple of weeks) and the relationship doesn't have any obvious way forward for much of the story. And both Noel and Mara aren't the type for casual relationships. So it makes sense that there's only a couple of great kissing scenes. There's one place where sex could have happened, theoretically, if you want to imagine it there.
But Noel was really the one who drew me in. I mean, he's exactly my type—the strong, capable guy who takes care of the people he cares about (and he cares about a lot of people). And I liked seeing him become engaged with Mara and roll with her edges and push back on her in fun ways. They make a great couple and I liked seeing them develop a friendship that started with attraction and a similar sense of humor. I particularly enjoyed the things he does to get to know her better because they were subtle and often nothing more complicated than inviting her along while he takes care of a thing. This was both engaging and illuminating and I liked seeing it.
I was a bit worried when I realized what a big landmine was standing in their way. I anticipated a dumb dark moment because a couple of people had gone stupid, starting with Mara. Fortunately, Monson handled that a lot better than expected and made it interesting by not waiting for the last possible moment for things to come out. It was deftly done and I was pleased not to go through the exasperation I was braced for.
Not that it wasn't still a bit stupid on Mara's part. But it wasn't amped up to where I'd have a hard time believing it. I'm not sure I buy the entire fallout and pullback. And I hated that
So this is four stars, but mostly because I can rewrite a chunk of the ending in my head and thus ignore the deus ex patrina there at the finish.
A note about Chaste: This is a compressed timeline (a couple of weeks) and the relationship doesn't have any obvious way forward for much of the story. And both Noel and Mara aren't the type for casual relationships. So it makes sense that there's only a couple of great kissing scenes. There's one place where sex could have happened, theoretically, if you want to imagine it there.
November 16, 2021
From the very first line--"I like to rage crochet." to the perfectly satisfying ending, this book slipped right into my heart, smacked a smile on my face, and left me feeling ready for Christmas!
I fell in love with Mara from The Holiday Ex Files and was dying for her story, and let me just say--it did NOT disappoint. Stepping foot in small-town Montana for a real estate deal for her dad led to some very funny, very swoony, and very heartwarming moments, as this place is all Christmas, all the time. I loved how different scenarios were typical Hallmark movie scenes and were noticed by the characters as almost a list to check off.
Noel Holiday is the resident town Santa Claus and the mistletoe mishaps, do-gooder service, and appearances everywhere melted my heart into a puddle of chocolate. I loved every single minute of this adorable story.
Content: mild+ romance; mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I fell in love with Mara from The Holiday Ex Files and was dying for her story, and let me just say--it did NOT disappoint. Stepping foot in small-town Montana for a real estate deal for her dad led to some very funny, very swoony, and very heartwarming moments, as this place is all Christmas, all the time. I loved how different scenarios were typical Hallmark movie scenes and were noticed by the characters as almost a list to check off.
Noel Holiday is the resident town Santa Claus and the mistletoe mishaps, do-gooder service, and appearances everywhere melted my heart into a puddle of chocolate. I loved every single minute of this adorable story.
Content: mild+ romance; mild language
*I received a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 16, 2021
4.5*
I have been excited to read Mara's story after reading the companion book by Jennifer Peel, The Holiday Ex-Files. Mara makes several appearances in that book as the main female character is her best friend. Likewise, Cami makes several appearances in this book. You don't have to read one book to understand the other, but I will say that they are both delightful and fit very well together.
Mara cracked me up in Peel's book how she handled people she wasn't happy with. And this book only developed more of her personality and her handling of her anger. Rage Crocheting anyone? Hahaha!!! Oh I loved anytime the yarn came out. Or every time she mentioned the Heathen Steven scarf she always wore when going outside. Her humor and wit is so much fun. I was highlighting many of her comments and antics that I found humorous and delightful.
I just adored her character. Sure she has some pent up anger and frustrations but she has such a kind, loving and giving heart. Her family life is kind of a mess...well not kind of, it is. If you've read The Holiday Ex-Files then you know. If you haven't, don't worry, the author gives you the info you need to know.
Mara ending up in Carole Cove and the Hallmark-y-ness of it all is just down right hysterical! The whole Hallmark movie jokes just cracked me up. I loved it! All the cliches and Mara and Cami's conversations about it were just perfect. There's some history there with these two and Christmas and Hallmark movies. Lol. It's dived into more in Cami's story but, again, the author does a great job explaining and not making you feel like you missed something.
Noel was wonderful!!! His character is so well written. And I loved all of the jokes that Mara makes in reference to him and the Hallmark movies. It was so cute! I loved how it became their inside joke. They come from different states and backgrounds and so much else that there's no way their meeting and friendship is going to be anything more than that. Especially when the truth comes out.
If you're looking for a fun rom-com Christmas story, this one and its companion book are definitely two I would recommend. They're fun and have plenty of sweet and clean romance in them.
Content: There is nothing more than kissing in the book. The kissing is the characters making out but it doesn't get too detailed, and nothing more than kisses, no touching other than the face and the back as they're holding each other. The male character does go into her room at the inn and they kiss and watch a movie on her bed but again, nothing further than the characters making out. There were a couple mild swear words used once each.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I have been excited to read Mara's story after reading the companion book by Jennifer Peel, The Holiday Ex-Files. Mara makes several appearances in that book as the main female character is her best friend. Likewise, Cami makes several appearances in this book. You don't have to read one book to understand the other, but I will say that they are both delightful and fit very well together.
Mara cracked me up in Peel's book how she handled people she wasn't happy with. And this book only developed more of her personality and her handling of her anger. Rage Crocheting anyone? Hahaha!!! Oh I loved anytime the yarn came out. Or every time she mentioned the Heathen Steven scarf she always wore when going outside. Her humor and wit is so much fun. I was highlighting many of her comments and antics that I found humorous and delightful.
I just adored her character. Sure she has some pent up anger and frustrations but she has such a kind, loving and giving heart. Her family life is kind of a mess...well not kind of, it is. If you've read The Holiday Ex-Files then you know. If you haven't, don't worry, the author gives you the info you need to know.
Mara ending up in Carole Cove and the Hallmark-y-ness of it all is just down right hysterical! The whole Hallmark movie jokes just cracked me up. I loved it! All the cliches and Mara and Cami's conversations about it were just perfect. There's some history there with these two and Christmas and Hallmark movies. Lol. It's dived into more in Cami's story but, again, the author does a great job explaining and not making you feel like you missed something.
Noel was wonderful!!! His character is so well written. And I loved all of the jokes that Mara makes in reference to him and the Hallmark movies. It was so cute! I loved how it became their inside joke. They come from different states and backgrounds and so much else that there's no way their meeting and friendship is going to be anything more than that. Especially when the truth comes out.
If you're looking for a fun rom-com Christmas story, this one and its companion book are definitely two I would recommend. They're fun and have plenty of sweet and clean romance in them.
Content: There is nothing more than kissing in the book. The kissing is the characters making out but it doesn't get too detailed, and nothing more than kisses, no touching other than the face and the back as they're holding each other. The male character does go into her room at the inn and they kiss and watch a movie on her bed but again, nothing further than the characters making out. There were a couple mild swear words used once each.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 31, 2022
HOW TO RUIN THE HOLIDAYS is a completely adorable romcom and just the sort of magic I was hoping for when I downloaded a bunch of them from KU earlier this week. I just wanted to savor the very last of the Christmas season! And this book helped me do that. (Complete with a sweet, romantic sleigh ride, I might add!)
I loved the female and male main characters, Mara and Noel. They're both deceptive, so a little morally gray mixed in with their pristine snow, which is always fun. The chemistry between them is delicious, and the conflict between them flames. Their dynamic ever shifts and humors.
I don't really have any complaints about this book, except I wasn't a hug fan of the resolution to the story's main conflict. But I did like the way Monson resolved the romantic story!
Rating: 🐎🐎🐎🐎/5 horse-drawn sleighs
Spice: 🌶🌶/5 chilies
Recommend: Yes
Finished December 2022
Read this if you like:
🚪 Closed door romance
🎄 Christmas stories
👥️ Forced proximity
👨👧Family drama
I loved the female and male main characters, Mara and Noel. They're both deceptive, so a little morally gray mixed in with their pristine snow, which is always fun. The chemistry between them is delicious, and the conflict between them flames. Their dynamic ever shifts and humors.
I don't really have any complaints about this book, except I wasn't a hug fan of the resolution to the story's main conflict. But I did like the way Monson resolved the romantic story!
Rating: 🐎🐎🐎🐎/5 horse-drawn sleighs
Spice: 🌶🌶/5 chilies
Recommend: Yes
Finished December 2022
Read this if you like:
🚪 Closed door romance
🎄 Christmas stories
👥️ Forced proximity
👨👧Family drama
November 17, 2022
What a fun holiday romance. I loved the Christmas vibe, fiesty humor, and swoony love story.
November 16, 2021
Hello, Mara!! and YAY! I've been waiting to read Mara's story after getting a glimpse of her in Jennifer Peel's story, The Holiday Ex Files. I mean, what's not to like? She adds her horrible sister in laws email to spam lists, she rage crochets and wears the Heathen Steven scarf. 😂 Mara also has a kind heart. She is aware of other people and does her best to help and show kindness to them. I really loved that about her. Plus, did I mention she crochets ugly scarves for people she is mad at? hahaha Can you visualize that? That just makes me laugh.
I think Noel is the bomb. The kissing was yummy and I honestly loved Noel's even temperament. He never got too riled or flew off the handle. He always treated Mara with respect and courtesy when he wasn't kissing her senseless. The love he had for his town and all the ways he took care of people was awesome too. Yeah, Noah is a Hallmark kind of hero. But better. Because more kissing, people.
This was such a feel good Christmas story. It has humor and if you know me, I love to be entertained while reading. I literally smiled my way through this one from beginning to end. I lovey loved it.
This book is on KU if you have that! Happy reading!
Content: kissing, mild swearing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
I think Noel is the bomb. The kissing was yummy and I honestly loved Noel's even temperament. He never got too riled or flew off the handle. He always treated Mara with respect and courtesy when he wasn't kissing her senseless. The love he had for his town and all the ways he took care of people was awesome too. Yeah, Noah is a Hallmark kind of hero. But better. Because more kissing, people.
This was such a feel good Christmas story. It has humor and if you know me, I love to be entertained while reading. I literally smiled my way through this one from beginning to end. I lovey loved it.
This book is on KU if you have that! Happy reading!
Content: kissing, mild swearing
- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 29, 2021
Super cute! My only real complaint is the leading man’s name is Noel… not a hot name for a guy.
December 8, 2021
I loved the personality of Mara! Seriously, rage crochet?! That's awesome. And she unfortunately has plenty of opportunity to do it with the family she has. I was so happy to see her realize that falling for the good guy is preferable.
January 24, 2022
Mara Scott tries to escape her crazy, dysfunctional family by taking a business trip to Montana but gets snowed in. Not only can't she fly out, but she's trapped in a real live Hallmark Christmas movie and finds herself falling for Noel Holiday. Yes, that's his real name and besides being holly and jolly, his hotness could melt away all that snow.
This is such a fun book, and I'm not just saying that because I share a name with the main character. I laughed so much, and I don't mean I giggled. I laughed out loud. Oh how I wish I were more like Mara Scott. She channels her anger into her "rage crochet" projects! "I've made some beautiful pieces in my anger. Like the scarf I'm currently wearing. It's got perfectly chained rows of delicious hunter-green yarn. And it's full of my hate." Not only did I love her rage crocheting, but I found her inner dialogue and the titles she gives her "holiday movies" like A Real Crap Christmas for Mara hilarious. Mara hates those cheesy Hallmark holiday movies, so when she finds herself in one she can't quite believe it.
I felt for Mara because she's best friends with Cami, who has the most awesome family, and hers is quite the opposite of that. I can definitely see why she's Cami's best friend--I think Mara could be pretty scary if you cross her. She's got a good heart and wanted to do the right thing for the small town of Carole Cove while not letting down her father. I was so proud of her when she left her father's real estate company and hoped it would be the wake-up call her father needed.
I loved Noel, he is definitely book boyfriend material. He and Mara have the best meet-cute which involves mistletoe! Noel is a great brother and always there for everyone. I worried if he ever took time for himself.
This book takes place around Christmas but can be enjoyed anytime you want to read a fun clean rom-com. I received a complimentary audiobook for review, and I think the narrator is awesome. She really got Mara's personality across. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
This is such a fun book, and I'm not just saying that because I share a name with the main character. I laughed so much, and I don't mean I giggled. I laughed out loud. Oh how I wish I were more like Mara Scott. She channels her anger into her "rage crochet" projects! "I've made some beautiful pieces in my anger. Like the scarf I'm currently wearing. It's got perfectly chained rows of delicious hunter-green yarn. And it's full of my hate." Not only did I love her rage crocheting, but I found her inner dialogue and the titles she gives her "holiday movies" like A Real Crap Christmas for Mara hilarious. Mara hates those cheesy Hallmark holiday movies, so when she finds herself in one she can't quite believe it.
I felt for Mara because she's best friends with Cami, who has the most awesome family, and hers is quite the opposite of that. I can definitely see why she's Cami's best friend--I think Mara could be pretty scary if you cross her. She's got a good heart and wanted to do the right thing for the small town of Carole Cove while not letting down her father. I was so proud of her when she left her father's real estate company and hoped it would be the wake-up call her father needed.
I loved Noel, he is definitely book boyfriend material. He and Mara have the best meet-cute which involves mistletoe! Noel is a great brother and always there for everyone. I worried if he ever took time for himself.
This book takes place around Christmas but can be enjoyed anytime you want to read a fun clean rom-com. I received a complimentary audiobook for review, and I think the narrator is awesome. She really got Mara's personality across. All thoughts expressed in this review are my own.
December 23, 2021
4.5 Rage-Crocheting Stars
Sooo sweet and light book to read! Mara ❤ Noel! It's one of my favorite holiday stories this year. I'm so happy that I stumble across it!
Sooo sweet and light book to read! Mara ❤ Noel! It's one of my favorite holiday stories this year. I'm so happy that I stumble across it!
November 17, 2021
Confession. I hadn't even finished reading The Holiday Ex-Files before I was reaching out to Ms. Peel begging her to tell me that Mara was getting her own book. I'm not going to lie, when she told me yes and Ms. Monson would be writing it, I squealed so loud that I'm sure my neighbors heard me and were probably rolling their eyes at me. No one around here seems to understand my reading obsession.. 😂
Y'all. I wish Mara was my best friend! She's loyal, loving, protective, puts others needs before her own, and is always willing to help the people she cares about. If I had to describe her in two words it would be absolutely amazing!
And now that I've said all that, I'm going to have to say ditto to Noel! Y'all that man had me swooning like there was no tomorrow! I fell in love with him right alongside Mara. He had me letting out all kinds of dreamy sighs... especially when it came to all those sizzling kisses. YOWZERS! I was a big ol' pile of goo!
Guys... the setting for this book was perfect! I've always wanted to live in a small town. There's just something about it that calls to this introvert. Maybe it's the slower pace of life. Maybe it's the cute and quaint shops. Maybe it's the closeness of the town folks. Maybe it's the out of the way location. Maybe it's a bit of all of the above and more. All I know is I want to be there!
If you guys are in the mood for a small town, Hallmarkish Christmas romance, then I highly recommend grabbing this book! But beware! Once you start, you are not going to want to put it down! Trust me! I literally had to talk myself out of calling in sick to work just so I could finish this book! But shhhh... don't tell my boss... 😉
I adore Ms. Monson and her books! I've loved everything of hers I've ever read! I seriously need to bump the others up on my TBR list. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... eeeeeek! Guys! I love them! What do you think?
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Y'all. I wish Mara was my best friend! She's loyal, loving, protective, puts others needs before her own, and is always willing to help the people she cares about. If I had to describe her in two words it would be absolutely amazing!
And now that I've said all that, I'm going to have to say ditto to Noel! Y'all that man had me swooning like there was no tomorrow! I fell in love with him right alongside Mara. He had me letting out all kinds of dreamy sighs... especially when it came to all those sizzling kisses. YOWZERS! I was a big ol' pile of goo!
Guys... the setting for this book was perfect! I've always wanted to live in a small town. There's just something about it that calls to this introvert. Maybe it's the slower pace of life. Maybe it's the cute and quaint shops. Maybe it's the closeness of the town folks. Maybe it's the out of the way location. Maybe it's a bit of all of the above and more. All I know is I want to be there!
If you guys are in the mood for a small town, Hallmarkish Christmas romance, then I highly recommend grabbing this book! But beware! Once you start, you are not going to want to put it down! Trust me! I literally had to talk myself out of calling in sick to work just so I could finish this book! But shhhh... don't tell my boss... 😉
I adore Ms. Monson and her books! I've loved everything of hers I've ever read! I seriously need to bump the others up on my TBR list. I can't wait to see what she has in store for us next!
As for my casting... eeeeeek! Guys! I love them! What do you think?
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December 11, 2021
This is a sort of continuation of The Holiday Ex-Files, featuring the best friend (Mara). It's written by a different author, which maybe shouldn't work but totally does. This story is a textbook Hallmark movie and I loved it enough to stay up late to keep reading. I do wish there had been a bit more resolution in the end, but that's a minor complaint.
November 18, 2021
Fantastic Holiday Romance!
If you’ve ever enjoyed cozying up to a Hallmark Christmas movie, you have GOT to read this book!! It will leave you grinning from ear to ear as you swoon over the handsome Mr Holiday (Noel is wonderful!) and root for other members of this sweet little Christmas town.
Mara is such a fun protagonist. She’s quirky, smart and kind, with some snark that definitely comes out when she chats with her best friend. She does NOT want to be stuck in this small Christmas town, but the longer she’s there the more she realizes it may be exactly what she needs.
I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet but this book had me itching to make hot cocoa and blast the Christmas music. I loved it and the ending was so sweet and satisfying!
If you’ve ever enjoyed cozying up to a Hallmark Christmas movie, you have GOT to read this book!! It will leave you grinning from ear to ear as you swoon over the handsome Mr Holiday (Noel is wonderful!) and root for other members of this sweet little Christmas town.
Mara is such a fun protagonist. She’s quirky, smart and kind, with some snark that definitely comes out when she chats with her best friend. She does NOT want to be stuck in this small Christmas town, but the longer she’s there the more she realizes it may be exactly what she needs.
I know it’s not even Thanksgiving yet but this book had me itching to make hot cocoa and blast the Christmas music. I loved it and the ending was so sweet and satisfying!
December 29, 2021
This is my last Christmas book for this year. And my last post for the year as well. I hope you all have a Happy New Year this weekend.
I loved reading this one by Becky Monson! Her characters made me laugh. And I loved the people of Carole Cove. It was just like a town in the Hallmark movies I love to watch and that was a great thing. This book goes hand in hand with The Holiday Ex-Files by Jennifer Peel. I loved the way the two books connected. Make sure to read them both.
This one features Mara. She is sent to Carole Cove by her dad to bid on some land. She’s a fun character. She likes to crotchet when she’s mad, I loved that about her. I had to laugh when she kept ending up under the mistletoe with Noel. It just kept happening and it was more and more funny with every time. Mara realizes very quickly after getting to Carole Cove that she needs to not tell people why she is there. The townspeople don’t want the outsiders there to bid on the land. And they aren’t very accommodating of them.
I loved Mara and Noel’s love story. They keep getting thrown together and things between them just get better and better. Just like a Hallmark story!
The characters in this book were so great! I loved the way the whole town are part of Noel and Mara’s story. If you’re looking for a great rom-com to read, look no farther than this one!
I loved reading this one by Becky Monson! Her characters made me laugh. And I loved the people of Carole Cove. It was just like a town in the Hallmark movies I love to watch and that was a great thing. This book goes hand in hand with The Holiday Ex-Files by Jennifer Peel. I loved the way the two books connected. Make sure to read them both.
This one features Mara. She is sent to Carole Cove by her dad to bid on some land. She’s a fun character. She likes to crotchet when she’s mad, I loved that about her. I had to laugh when she kept ending up under the mistletoe with Noel. It just kept happening and it was more and more funny with every time. Mara realizes very quickly after getting to Carole Cove that she needs to not tell people why she is there. The townspeople don’t want the outsiders there to bid on the land. And they aren’t very accommodating of them.
I loved Mara and Noel’s love story. They keep getting thrown together and things between them just get better and better. Just like a Hallmark story!
The characters in this book were so great! I loved the way the whole town are part of Noel and Mara’s story. If you’re looking for a great rom-com to read, look no farther than this one!
November 15, 2021
-‘ I like to rage crochet.’-
That’s the opening line for this story. From the moment I read that sentence, I thought, “Buckle up and enjoy the ride. This is going to be good!”
From the moment I read about ‘Heathen Steven’ to the very last sentence, I loved every moment. I laughed so loud I nearly scared my cat away. Seriously. And the kissing scenes! Wow! Nearly melted my socks off. I got all tingly.
Mara is away on business in Carole Cove, but under the pretence she is there on vacation. The small town doesn’t take kindly to real estate agents trying to buy up all the land and build it up. Just like a Hallmark movie, Mara gets stuck in town after the storm of the century dumps enough snow to lock down all the towns and cities in the surrounding area, not to mention the airport. All the characters you would expect in a Hallmark Christmas movie, but with a whole lot more humour and way less cheese… I absolutely, enthusiastically, recommend this book. Not just for a great Christmas read, but an anytime read. You simply can’t go wrong with this author’s books!
That’s the opening line for this story. From the moment I read that sentence, I thought, “Buckle up and enjoy the ride. This is going to be good!”
From the moment I read about ‘Heathen Steven’ to the very last sentence, I loved every moment. I laughed so loud I nearly scared my cat away. Seriously. And the kissing scenes! Wow! Nearly melted my socks off. I got all tingly.
Mara is away on business in Carole Cove, but under the pretence she is there on vacation. The small town doesn’t take kindly to real estate agents trying to buy up all the land and build it up. Just like a Hallmark movie, Mara gets stuck in town after the storm of the century dumps enough snow to lock down all the towns and cities in the surrounding area, not to mention the airport. All the characters you would expect in a Hallmark Christmas movie, but with a whole lot more humour and way less cheese… I absolutely, enthusiastically, recommend this book. Not just for a great Christmas read, but an anytime read. You simply can’t go wrong with this author’s books!
November 24, 2021
Like the Plot of a Holiday Movie
I loved that this book felt like a holiday movie, while at the same time poking fun at them and the resemblance.
Mara goes to Carole Cove to buy a property for her father’s real estate agency. The town folks are against the sale, so naturally she doesn’t disclose why she’s there. Big city girl meets small town boy and sparks fly. Will her secret come out? Of course!
I loved the holiday cheer, the cast of characters like the cheerful baker, and the humor! Mara and Noel were adorable! Plenty of getting to know each other time, adorable dates, and sizzlingly sweet chemistry!
I couldn’t get enough of this book. If you haven’t read it yet, also read The Holiday Ex-Files, a companion novel by Jennifer Peel.
I loved that this book felt like a holiday movie, while at the same time poking fun at them and the resemblance.
Mara goes to Carole Cove to buy a property for her father’s real estate agency. The town folks are against the sale, so naturally she doesn’t disclose why she’s there. Big city girl meets small town boy and sparks fly. Will her secret come out? Of course!
I loved the holiday cheer, the cast of characters like the cheerful baker, and the humor! Mara and Noel were adorable! Plenty of getting to know each other time, adorable dates, and sizzlingly sweet chemistry!
I couldn’t get enough of this book. If you haven’t read it yet, also read The Holiday Ex-Files, a companion novel by Jennifer Peel.
November 11, 2025
wonderful Christmas read
This sweet and magical Christmas read absolutely warmed my heart and touched my soul. Full of Christmas cheer, sweet romance and a Hallmark setting it is the perfect read for the holidays. I would love to see this made into a hallmark movie. Another winner from Becky Monson! Highly recommend!
This sweet and magical Christmas read absolutely warmed my heart and touched my soul. Full of Christmas cheer, sweet romance and a Hallmark setting it is the perfect read for the holidays. I would love to see this made into a hallmark movie. Another winner from Becky Monson! Highly recommend!
December 23, 2025
Super fun story cross over! Anti Christmas, romance avoidant FMC in a holiday town. Hallmark hell vibes. She doesn’t want to love it but she does. Beloved local hero MMC. Strangers to lovers. All the heart warming vibes. Like good junk tv.
January 2, 2022
Book #6 in the holiday stack!
This was an easy read on my kindle & a Hallmark movie in written form. We meet our main character when she’s sent by her dad to a small Christmas-y town in Montana to complete a real estate transaction that is supposed to catapult her professional life (in the family business) into high gear. Cue the holiday hijinks.
This was a holiday feel good read that hit all the right buttons. Entertaining locals, a business to rescue, a romantic interest- all wrapped in a December setting.
This was an easy read on my kindle & a Hallmark movie in written form. We meet our main character when she’s sent by her dad to a small Christmas-y town in Montana to complete a real estate transaction that is supposed to catapult her professional life (in the family business) into high gear. Cue the holiday hijinks.
This was a holiday feel good read that hit all the right buttons. Entertaining locals, a business to rescue, a romantic interest- all wrapped in a December setting.
December 6, 2022
3.5
This was a fun, if not totally remarkable Hallmark movie style Christmas romance where big city girl Mara is sent to the small town of Carol Cove, Montana to scope out some land for her father to buy. Unbeknownst to the town hottie, Noel, who falls hard for grinchy Mara and tries to get her to see the best of the season and all his town has to offer. I did enjoy the way the author makes her own Hallmark Movie jokes throughout the story. If you're looking for something light hearted and fun that was good on audio and a quick listen, look no further. Perfect for fans of Jennifer Peel.
This was a fun, if not totally remarkable Hallmark movie style Christmas romance where big city girl Mara is sent to the small town of Carol Cove, Montana to scope out some land for her father to buy. Unbeknownst to the town hottie, Noel, who falls hard for grinchy Mara and tries to get her to see the best of the season and all his town has to offer. I did enjoy the way the author makes her own Hallmark Movie jokes throughout the story. If you're looking for something light hearted and fun that was good on audio and a quick listen, look no further. Perfect for fans of Jennifer Peel.
January 14, 2022
Honestly, I was not expecting to love this book so much! Mara was actually a great character. I didn't think I would like her at first, but as the book went on, I grew to love her. And Noel...well he was also an amazing character. I loved the town and how it was all Christmasy. It was super fun to read about how it was like their own movie. I am going to definitely want to read about Cass's story.
January 26, 2023
Well, Mara’s family sucks but at least now she gets to make her own with Noel (favorite character in this book hands down). My only complaint is how quick the relationship developed but then again this is a short book and this is pretty typical with Christmas romances, is it not?
December 30, 2023
Gah! I loved this book so much!! Cute Mara heads to a small town to help her dad purchase some land for sale. Little does she know, she immediately feels like she’s stuck in a Hallmark movie and her friend Cami back at home is only solidifying the Hallmark movie vibes Mara is feeling. Enter the sweet and swoony Noel Holiday, Jack of all trades and as handsome as they come! These two end up under the mistletoe together more than once and it doesn’t take long before they’re both falling for each other!!
Seriously the cutest!
Seriously the cutest!
November 25, 2025
I really enjoyed this book! I listened to it on Audible and it was my first holiday read of the season. Just little small town, unexpected romance with some drama. The drama was very quick though and towards the end. Some parts seemed rushed through but overall I liked it!
December 17, 2021
Different from what I normally read cute and funny 😀👌🏻
January 24, 2022
I loved this book! I love how it went along with Jennifer Peels book The Holiday Exfiles!
December 17, 2025
A generally enjoyable holiday romance. If you're looking for something with strong Christmas vibes and a couple you can root for this one will scratch the itch.
December 22, 2021
3.5 - so much better than the companion book (The Holiday Ex-Files)...a cute, Christmas novella!
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