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When in West Virginia #1.5
Mishaps and Mistletoe
Josie Ward doesn’t want a lot for Christmas—just for the entire holiday season to be over and done with as quickly as humanly possible. That’s not too much to ask, right?
But who can blame her? The holidays have been extra light on the holly and without much jolly since her sister passed, and no amount of belief in anything will bring her back. Christmas wish lists are for children, anyway. Not single women in their mid-thirties.
She isn’t the Queen of Christmas, anymore. Definitely not the Princess of Positivity. This Jojo has lost her mojo, according to her friend Johnny. But, it’s not like she’s actively looking for it.
No, this queen hung up her crown years ago.
Christmas magic? No such thing. Holiday miracles? Only in movies. Happy ever afters? Don’t even get her started.
But a blast from Josie’s past has her wondering whether she might be capable of change. He’s certainly changed. Because, yeah. Kevin definitely didn’t look like that at fourteen.
With the help of a meddlesome friend, a sprig of seaweed, and a partridge in a pear tree, can a man who knew the girl she was help the woman she’s become see there’s hope, even in the darkest places? Perhaps the one thing she didn’t ask for this Christmas will end up being the greatest gift of all.
A sweet, feel-good holiday romantic comedy, Mishaps and Mistletoe has slow-burn chemistry, mild language, and plenty of sizzle and spice without on-page explicit content.
But who can blame her? The holidays have been extra light on the holly and without much jolly since her sister passed, and no amount of belief in anything will bring her back. Christmas wish lists are for children, anyway. Not single women in their mid-thirties.
She isn’t the Queen of Christmas, anymore. Definitely not the Princess of Positivity. This Jojo has lost her mojo, according to her friend Johnny. But, it’s not like she’s actively looking for it.
No, this queen hung up her crown years ago.
Christmas magic? No such thing. Holiday miracles? Only in movies. Happy ever afters? Don’t even get her started.
But a blast from Josie’s past has her wondering whether she might be capable of change. He’s certainly changed. Because, yeah. Kevin definitely didn’t look like that at fourteen.
With the help of a meddlesome friend, a sprig of seaweed, and a partridge in a pear tree, can a man who knew the girl she was help the woman she’s become see there’s hope, even in the darkest places? Perhaps the one thing she didn’t ask for this Christmas will end up being the greatest gift of all.
A sweet, feel-good holiday romantic comedy, Mishaps and Mistletoe has slow-burn chemistry, mild language, and plenty of sizzle and spice without on-page explicit content.
159 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 3, 2022
36 people are currently reading
468 people want to read
About the author
Lindsey Jesionowski
7 books75 followersLindsey Jesionowski is a wife and mom who does most of her writing in her car in the school pickup lot. She’s a native of West Virginia, a lover of coffee, and a fan of books with happy ever afters—so she decided to write one.
Lindsey’s books are full of heart and humor with plenty of sizzle and no explicit content. Just lots of smiles.
Lindsey’s books are full of heart and humor with plenty of sizzle and no explicit content. Just lots of smiles.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
December 7, 2022
2.5⭐️ It was a cute holiday rom-com but it just wasn’t my cup of tea.
November 13, 2022
Once deemed the Queen of Christmas, Josie has since lost her spirit after losing her sister to a drunk driver. But perhaps helping Kevin—the town newbie in Wheeling, West Virgina—create his own Christmas memories is exactly what she needs.
With sweet mishaps continually bringing Josie and Kevin together, this title is so fitting! The coincidental connection to their past was a beautiful touch, both being a source of healing for the other. The humour mixed throughout was great, too (the robe scene, oh my goodness)! And best friend Johnny was the perfect secondary character, adding so much funny wisdom and banter.
I think with it being so short (less than 200 pages), I didn't fully feel the chemistry in the romance like I wanted, but it was cute and enjoyable. I did love the writing and the epilogue was the sweetest full-circle moment!
(heat level: kissing only)
With sweet mishaps continually bringing Josie and Kevin together, this title is so fitting! The coincidental connection to their past was a beautiful touch, both being a source of healing for the other. The humour mixed throughout was great, too (the robe scene, oh my goodness)! And best friend Johnny was the perfect secondary character, adding so much funny wisdom and banter.
I think with it being so short (less than 200 pages), I didn't fully feel the chemistry in the romance like I wanted, but it was cute and enjoyable. I did love the writing and the epilogue was the sweetest full-circle moment!
(heat level: kissing only)
November 27, 2022
A sweet Christmas romcom, perfect for the season.
April 23, 2023
This book took me on twists and turns I hadn’t planned. But in the end, I think it brought me right where we all want to be when we read a book like this…home 💛
November 14, 2022
This was adorable. The perfect sweet and cozy start to the Christmas season.
December 1, 2022
I’m being a bit harsh it really wasn’t that bad. It just wasn’t like that good either sooo 2 and a bit
July 31, 2025
Cute little romance set in my favorite state. Plus I’ve been to Oglebay for their Christmas lights, so that was nice. A little cheesy, like a Hallmark movie, but enjoyable. I recommend for some holiday escapism!
November 5, 2022
I finished this sweet, sweet holiday romance just in time to publicly declare that I LOVED it and everyone should snatch it up for their Holiday TBR list.
This second chance at love story is about more than two people getting another chance to have a relationship. It’s about reviving lost hopes, mending broken, grieving hearts, and letting go of past regrets and losses. It’s also about falling in love with Christmas again!
It was sweet & heartwarming.
It contains discussions of survivors guilt & grief, addiction (gentle referrals, not very triggering), and learning disability rep.
Please, please, please add this to your list and support the wonderful @authorlindseyjesionowski by buying a copy today!
December 18, 2023
Loved this book! Such a feel good book for me talking about Oglebay Lights that I absolutely love and grew up going there for soo many different things. My favorite part was the mention of the wreath and candle lights.
October 30, 2022
This is a Christmas novella with a whole lot of heart, humor, and Christmas tradition!
Josie Ward used to embody the essence of Christmas but, after the loss of her sister (and fellow Christmas lover) Josie no longer felt the Christmas spirit and she hasn’t been able to find it since. This year, she finds out the promotion at Olgebay’s she was all but promised depends on bringing Christmas to life and Josie knows it’s going to take a Christmas miracle to pull it off. But, she doesn’t believe in Christmas magic anymore so this task feels nearly impossible…
Enter Kevin, a talented photographer who has relocated to West Virginia from Florida. It’s a small town and Kevin sticks out like a hot viking. Dressed, or over dressed, for “cold” West Virginia weather, he draws the attention of Josie at the local coffee place, Mountain Brew. But, prone to mishaps, Josie makes a great impression promptly running into him and scalding him with coffee. But, it wasn’t the first impression she’s made on Kevin…
Kevin recognizes Josie, or JoJo, as he once knew her…the vibrant teen on family vacation, lover of all things Christmas, and the girl who changed his life all those years ago…now it’s time for him to return the favor! Using his Christmas tradition naivety, Kevin convinces Josie she is the perfect Christmas tradition guide! Together they experience old and new Christmas traditions and bring back the magic that was missing in the holiday for each of them!
This novella was so cute! If you read Alone Together (which you absolutely should!) you know Lindsey is the Queen of Puns, fun 90s references, meddling friends, and cute, quirky, hilariously mortifying moments between characters! Mishaps and Mistletoe includes all of these and then some! I loved the theme of rediscovering Christmas and the way the character’s relationship evolved through each magical holiday experience! Put this heartfelt Christmas novella on your TBR!
Also…THE EPILOGUE! I gasp. I swoon. I melt…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lindsey Jesionowski , thank you for this ARC! This is my honest, voluntary review. Pub Date: Nov 3rd
Josie Ward used to embody the essence of Christmas but, after the loss of her sister (and fellow Christmas lover) Josie no longer felt the Christmas spirit and she hasn’t been able to find it since. This year, she finds out the promotion at Olgebay’s she was all but promised depends on bringing Christmas to life and Josie knows it’s going to take a Christmas miracle to pull it off. But, she doesn’t believe in Christmas magic anymore so this task feels nearly impossible…
Enter Kevin, a talented photographer who has relocated to West Virginia from Florida. It’s a small town and Kevin sticks out like a hot viking. Dressed, or over dressed, for “cold” West Virginia weather, he draws the attention of Josie at the local coffee place, Mountain Brew. But, prone to mishaps, Josie makes a great impression promptly running into him and scalding him with coffee. But, it wasn’t the first impression she’s made on Kevin…
Kevin recognizes Josie, or JoJo, as he once knew her…the vibrant teen on family vacation, lover of all things Christmas, and the girl who changed his life all those years ago…now it’s time for him to return the favor! Using his Christmas tradition naivety, Kevin convinces Josie she is the perfect Christmas tradition guide! Together they experience old and new Christmas traditions and bring back the magic that was missing in the holiday for each of them!
This novella was so cute! If you read Alone Together (which you absolutely should!) you know Lindsey is the Queen of Puns, fun 90s references, meddling friends, and cute, quirky, hilariously mortifying moments between characters! Mishaps and Mistletoe includes all of these and then some! I loved the theme of rediscovering Christmas and the way the character’s relationship evolved through each magical holiday experience! Put this heartfelt Christmas novella on your TBR!
Also…THE EPILOGUE! I gasp. I swoon. I melt…
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Lindsey Jesionowski , thank you for this ARC! This is my honest, voluntary review. Pub Date: Nov 3rd
November 8, 2022
This was heavier than I expected and a bit too fast paced. With only a brief explanation of their history, I never felt that connected to them. Some unnecessary drama at the end made me roll my eyes too.
I did think some scenes were sweet and there was a lot of Christmas cheer to go around.
I'm still curious enough to try the authors full length novels.
I did think some scenes were sweet and there was a lot of Christmas cheer to go around.
I'm still curious enough to try the authors full length novels.
November 13, 2022
I really enjoyed this small town, second chance, dual POV holiday romance between two childhood friends who reunite 25 years later and fall in love all over again during the holidays!! Great dyslexia rep and the Johnny moments made me laugh out loud! I can’t wait to read his book next year!
November 4, 2022
Title: Mishaps and Mistletoe
Author: Lindsey Jesionowski
Hero/Heroine: Kevin & Josie
Tropes: Second Chance, Small Town, Friends to Lovers
TW/CW: Death of a sibling, mentions of adoption and foster care, mentions of dyslexia, mention of grief,
THE GOOD 😀
The Christmas novella binge continues with Mishaps and Mistletoe. I adored Kevin, Josie and their gorgeous story of second chances and finding happiness with that one person you never really forgot. All with a Christmas setting, I mean come on, what’s not to love??
Having first met on a beach over twenty years ago, Kevin and Josie find themselves in the same town, determined to recapture the magic of Christmas. After losing her sister some years ago, Josie hasn’t celebrated Christmas the way she used to and helping Kevin make memories made her realise what she was missing out on.
As you all know, small town romance is one of my favourite tropes, so when you throw in a gorgeous couple and make it Christmas themed, I just about lost my mind. Kevin and Josie were just the sweetest. They both had their emotional scars due to events from their past, however when they were together you could see that all that stuff didn’t matter. It was about them and their emotional growth and learning to trust in what they had. I loved (and also appreciated) Johnny’s description of Kevin - the Vesty Viking, which made me laugh. And there were quite a few mentions of his forearms, which was also appreciated, not gonna lie.
Josie and Johnny’s friendship throughout this book was one of the many things I loved about this story. He was a constant support for her and was always reminding her to get out of her own way. Cannot wait for his story.
A wonderful Christmas themed small town romance with gorgeous characters, Mishaps and Mistletoe is one holiday novella you do not want to miss.
THE BAD ☹️
Scott. Thankfully he was only mentioned and we didn’t have to actually meet him. But he sounded like a jackass all the same.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: A small town Christmas themed novella that gave me the warm and fuzzies
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Author: Lindsey Jesionowski
Hero/Heroine: Kevin & Josie
Tropes: Second Chance, Small Town, Friends to Lovers
TW/CW: Death of a sibling, mentions of adoption and foster care, mentions of dyslexia, mention of grief,
THE GOOD 😀
The Christmas novella binge continues with Mishaps and Mistletoe. I adored Kevin, Josie and their gorgeous story of second chances and finding happiness with that one person you never really forgot. All with a Christmas setting, I mean come on, what’s not to love??
Having first met on a beach over twenty years ago, Kevin and Josie find themselves in the same town, determined to recapture the magic of Christmas. After losing her sister some years ago, Josie hasn’t celebrated Christmas the way she used to and helping Kevin make memories made her realise what she was missing out on.
As you all know, small town romance is one of my favourite tropes, so when you throw in a gorgeous couple and make it Christmas themed, I just about lost my mind. Kevin and Josie were just the sweetest. They both had their emotional scars due to events from their past, however when they were together you could see that all that stuff didn’t matter. It was about them and their emotional growth and learning to trust in what they had. I loved (and also appreciated) Johnny’s description of Kevin - the Vesty Viking, which made me laugh. And there were quite a few mentions of his forearms, which was also appreciated, not gonna lie.
Josie and Johnny’s friendship throughout this book was one of the many things I loved about this story. He was a constant support for her and was always reminding her to get out of her own way. Cannot wait for his story.
A wonderful Christmas themed small town romance with gorgeous characters, Mishaps and Mistletoe is one holiday novella you do not want to miss.
THE BAD ☹️
Scott. Thankfully he was only mentioned and we didn’t have to actually meet him. But he sounded like a jackass all the same.
OVERALL THOUGHTS: A small town Christmas themed novella that gave me the warm and fuzzies
STEAM LEVEL: 🔥
STAR RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 8, 2022
I loved Lindsey's first book Alone Together, and were so ecstatic to get an #arc of her second book, Mishaps & Mistletoe. Mishaps & Mistletoe is a novella and #1.5 in the When in West Virginia series.
I love Josie. I really connected with her and her reservations about starting a relationship (luckily, Derek broke down those walls - so we're all good now). I'm also all about Christmas, so I was super happy this novella was set during the Christmas holiday. And I love that I've actually been to the place this book was set in - Oglebay's! Although I didn't know all that they had to offer during Christmas!
Now, the story itself was super cute as well. The way Josie and Kevin reconnected is just such a cute story and also realistic - how many times have we realized what a small world it is?? And the way Josie and Kevin make each other come alive? Ugh. It's what everyone hopes for in a partner.
I also love Johnny and cannot wait for the next book in the series to get to see how his story plays out. In all, I wish this would have been a full novel so that we could have gotten more of Josie, Kevin, and Johnny. And y'all, that second epilogue. Ooooo, I can't wait for y'all to read it. It makes me so excited for what's to come.
Overall I gave Mishaps & Mistletoe ⭐⭐⭐⭐. It is such a cute novella and should definitely be added to your TBR list! It comes out November 3rd, so you don't have too much time to wait!
I love Josie. I really connected with her and her reservations about starting a relationship (luckily, Derek broke down those walls - so we're all good now). I'm also all about Christmas, so I was super happy this novella was set during the Christmas holiday. And I love that I've actually been to the place this book was set in - Oglebay's! Although I didn't know all that they had to offer during Christmas!
Now, the story itself was super cute as well. The way Josie and Kevin reconnected is just such a cute story and also realistic - how many times have we realized what a small world it is?? And the way Josie and Kevin make each other come alive? Ugh. It's what everyone hopes for in a partner.
I also love Johnny and cannot wait for the next book in the series to get to see how his story plays out. In all, I wish this would have been a full novel so that we could have gotten more of Josie, Kevin, and Johnny. And y'all, that second epilogue. Ooooo, I can't wait for y'all to read it. It makes me so excited for what's to come.
Overall I gave Mishaps & Mistletoe ⭐⭐⭐⭐. It is such a cute novella and should definitely be added to your TBR list! It comes out November 3rd, so you don't have too much time to wait!
December 11, 2023
This novella was my first formal introduction to Lindsey Jesionowski and now I have books to add to my TBR! You know when you read something that allows you to remember the childlike innocence of the holidays even though you have a family of your own, but you can’t help being wrapped in the magic, that’s this story! While Josie has been classified as the “Queen of Christmas” in the past, her present state is a bit more Grinch or Scrooge-like! When tragedy strikes around the holidays, it flips everything on its end and there is little hope of recovery until she bumps into Mr. LL Bean catalogue man! Kevin is new in town and clearly not sure how to dress for the weather, but what he does know is that the woman who collides with him at the coffeeshop will change his life forever!
While one protagonist has lost her Christmas spirit, the other never really had any to begin with! As the story unfolds, it seems that there is more than meets the eye and that there might be more than just a fortuitous encounter over a mocha! This story plays up a lot of traditional pastimes of the season and shows the strength that can be drawn on from your found family! This novella may have been short in length, it wasn’t short on how special memories of the past and present alike can be when with the right people! Now if you will excuse me, I’m gonna have to figure out if I want to backtrack to the first book in the series or fast forward to the latest release in it!
While one protagonist has lost her Christmas spirit, the other never really had any to begin with! As the story unfolds, it seems that there is more than meets the eye and that there might be more than just a fortuitous encounter over a mocha! This story plays up a lot of traditional pastimes of the season and shows the strength that can be drawn on from your found family! This novella may have been short in length, it wasn’t short on how special memories of the past and present alike can be when with the right people! Now if you will excuse me, I’m gonna have to figure out if I want to backtrack to the first book in the series or fast forward to the latest release in it!
November 6, 2022
Romance level: kissing.
This book was a super sweet, second chance, Christmas' story.
My heart felt sad for Josie's loss. I loved her friendship w/Johnny. He was an important part of her past & present. I loved how they teased each other.
You just can't help to love the first meet cute😍😂 as well as the second. It was hilarious. I love how their conversations flow. These two needed healing & support from each other. It was super cute 💕.
That first kiss! & the one's following that one! 🔥👌🏻Their rekindling was super sweet. I love the cookie baking. Kevin opening up was everything. I loved how he respects her wounds & supports her. I love his thoughtfulness
Their dance was precious. I knew his small mishap would come & bite him in his backside . Although I liked how it showed Josie's need to heal & trust Kevin. It got solved quickly, which was fine by me. Their small gestures were the best🎄I loved the new tradition setting. Can't wait for Johnny's 💛.
Scenes I loved:
☕Coffee shop
🏞️Mr. Great Outdoors 😂
🎅Mrs. Morris' love for Santa
🌿Seaweed
💃Shenanigans
🛁Spa
⛸️Ice rink
🖤:Dyslexia
⚠️TW: death of a sibling; parental abuse; addiction.
🍁
* I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
This book was a super sweet, second chance, Christmas' story.
My heart felt sad for Josie's loss. I loved her friendship w/Johnny. He was an important part of her past & present. I loved how they teased each other.
You just can't help to love the first meet cute😍😂 as well as the second. It was hilarious. I love how their conversations flow. These two needed healing & support from each other. It was super cute 💕.
That first kiss! & the one's following that one! 🔥👌🏻Their rekindling was super sweet. I love the cookie baking. Kevin opening up was everything. I loved how he respects her wounds & supports her. I love his thoughtfulness
Their dance was precious. I knew his small mishap would come & bite him in his backside . Although I liked how it showed Josie's need to heal & trust Kevin. It got solved quickly, which was fine by me. Their small gestures were the best🎄I loved the new tradition setting. Can't wait for Johnny's 💛.
Scenes I loved:
☕Coffee shop
🏞️Mr. Great Outdoors 😂
🎅Mrs. Morris' love for Santa
🌿Seaweed
💃Shenanigans
🛁Spa
⛸️Ice rink
🖤:Dyslexia
⚠️TW: death of a sibling; parental abuse; addiction.
🍁
* I was kindly gifted an ARC from the author. This doesn't influence in any form my review/opinion of the book*
November 18, 2023
After having lost her sister 6 years prior Josie has lost her Christmas spirit. Kevin is new to town and having had a rough childhood, never really had the Christmas he deserved 🎄 the two come together in order for Josie to find her Christmas spirit and for Kevin to get the Christmas experiences Josie had as a kid 💕💕
Ok so this book is cute 🥰 It has all the Christmas magic and spirit one could want from a Christmas novella .. but .. I just didn’t connect with the characters, I didn’t find myself swooning or becoming I really attached to them as I would a 4 or 5 star read 🤷🏼♀️ short review, this book was alright but not amazing for me ⭐️ TBH I was more invested in Josie’s friend Johnny 💕
This is a closed door romance, super easy read! It does touch on grief and addiction off page. Lots of Christmas decorations and snow and all the fun Christmas activities one does whilst falling in love 🤍
This book is a novella from the When in West Virginia series but can be read as a standalone .. I have flagged to come back to Johnny’s story 🩷
📚 Second Chance
📚 Christmas Spirit
📚 Forced proximity (sort of)
📚 Childhood sweethearts
Ok so this book is cute 🥰 It has all the Christmas magic and spirit one could want from a Christmas novella .. but .. I just didn’t connect with the characters, I didn’t find myself swooning or becoming I really attached to them as I would a 4 or 5 star read 🤷🏼♀️ short review, this book was alright but not amazing for me ⭐️ TBH I was more invested in Josie’s friend Johnny 💕
This is a closed door romance, super easy read! It does touch on grief and addiction off page. Lots of Christmas decorations and snow and all the fun Christmas activities one does whilst falling in love 🤍
This book is a novella from the When in West Virginia series but can be read as a standalone .. I have flagged to come back to Johnny’s story 🩷
📚 Second Chance
📚 Christmas Spirit
📚 Forced proximity (sort of)
📚 Childhood sweethearts
October 28, 2022
“You’re never too old for holiday traditions. That’s the magic of Christmas. No one ever outgrows believing in miracles.” 🎄✨🥹
the ✨highlights✨
+ Vested Viking
+ Linus and his sweater
+ Johnny and his coffee cup names
+ backyard ice rink
+ kisses for research purposes😏
+ seaweed and mistletoe
+ the. epilogue.
This the absolute sweetest holiday novella! What a way to kick off the start of the holiday season.
There are some heavier topics covered in this one, but it’s balanced out so well with the sweet and funny moments between Kevin and Josie. And Johnny’s antics!
Josie is trying to find joy in the holidays after losing her sister. And Kevin just moved to town when he bumps (literally) into Josie at a coffee shop. The two can’t seem to stop running into each other, and they strike up a friendship.
They each re-discover the magic of Christmas and watching them fall head-over-heals for each other was so dang sweet! And when they each discover that there’s a reason the other looked familiar… PRECIOUS.
And now, I know Johnny is not the main character of this one. But you will fall in love with him too! From his sweet moments with Josie to his hilarious coffee shop antics. I can’t wait for his book next!
And YA’LL. The EPILOGUE!! I will never ever ever forget the epilogue. The most creative and most genius and most sweet!
Read if you like:
+ Hallmark Christmas movies
+ closed door romance
+ second chance romance
+ forbidden-ish romance
+ novellas with a couple extra Christmas cookies (as Lindsey would say)
+ meddling friends
the ✨highlights✨
+ Vested Viking
+ Linus and his sweater
+ Johnny and his coffee cup names
+ backyard ice rink
+ kisses for research purposes😏
+ seaweed and mistletoe
+ the. epilogue.
This the absolute sweetest holiday novella! What a way to kick off the start of the holiday season.
There are some heavier topics covered in this one, but it’s balanced out so well with the sweet and funny moments between Kevin and Josie. And Johnny’s antics!
Josie is trying to find joy in the holidays after losing her sister. And Kevin just moved to town when he bumps (literally) into Josie at a coffee shop. The two can’t seem to stop running into each other, and they strike up a friendship.
They each re-discover the magic of Christmas and watching them fall head-over-heals for each other was so dang sweet! And when they each discover that there’s a reason the other looked familiar… PRECIOUS.
And now, I know Johnny is not the main character of this one. But you will fall in love with him too! From his sweet moments with Josie to his hilarious coffee shop antics. I can’t wait for his book next!
And YA’LL. The EPILOGUE!! I will never ever ever forget the epilogue. The most creative and most genius and most sweet!
Read if you like:
+ Hallmark Christmas movies
+ closed door romance
+ second chance romance
+ forbidden-ish romance
+ novellas with a couple extra Christmas cookies (as Lindsey would say)
+ meddling friends
November 3, 2022
This was such a sweet holiday romance, the perfect way to start my holiday reading. Josie and Kevin were meant to be together it just took them a while to find their way back into each others lives. This book gave me all the Hallmark movie feels and I am all for it. I love a good slow burn, angsty rom com and this book delivered! A sweet second chance romance where both parties are pining but it is almost too good to be true. The way Josie and Kevin went on "dates" and slowly got to know each other again was so sweet and felt very organic. I really appreciated the way Kevin was patient with Josie as she navigated her feelings of guilt and anxiety around participating in holiday traditions she used to share with her sister. They really are the perfect yin to the others yang. My favourite moment is when Kevin recreated Rockefeller Center complete with an ice rink and Christmas tree *swoon*.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
November 23, 2022
This is book #2 in Lindsey's When in West Virginia series and the reader would be best to read book #1 as there are some spoilers with the second book.
This book was the perfect Hallmark Christmas filled movie in book form! I adored all the special holiday festivities and the possibility of finding love after heart break. Josie is struggling with having lost her holiday spirit and needing to be re-invigorated to help her career and life in general. Enter Kevin, someone she met many years ago when she was a young teenager. But he isn't the same Kevin as he was and he has Josie questioning what happened so many years ago under a special piece of seaweed. If you love sweet small town Christmas festivities, meddling friends aka Fairy Godmothers, closed door romance, white hot chocolate, adorable mishaps with tripping into strong men, and struggle with baking this is the perfect book for you!
Some caution, there is mention of verbal abuse of a child - historical happening, not explicitly explained in the book but it is mentioned.
This book was the perfect Hallmark Christmas filled movie in book form! I adored all the special holiday festivities and the possibility of finding love after heart break. Josie is struggling with having lost her holiday spirit and needing to be re-invigorated to help her career and life in general. Enter Kevin, someone she met many years ago when she was a young teenager. But he isn't the same Kevin as he was and he has Josie questioning what happened so many years ago under a special piece of seaweed. If you love sweet small town Christmas festivities, meddling friends aka Fairy Godmothers, closed door romance, white hot chocolate, adorable mishaps with tripping into strong men, and struggle with baking this is the perfect book for you!
Some caution, there is mention of verbal abuse of a child - historical happening, not explicitly explained in the book but it is mentioned.
October 28, 2022
Josie really wants Christmas to be in her rearview mirror. Christmas cheer has been completely absent in Josie's life since her sister passed away. Kevin is the new man in town that Josie keeps running into quite literally. Can you say clumsy? She sounds a lot like me. I found myself laughing out loud as I could visualize her falling. The character of Josie is interesting. She has lost her spirit, but you can feel it just under the surface. You can also feel her intense pain coming off of the pages. The character of Kevin did not have a good early childhood, but he is a nice guy with a heart of gold. This was a sweet romance which was made even sweeter because it is set at Christmas. There is nothing better than a Christmas romance. This is a quick read which will leave you with a warm, fuzzy feeling. Christmas romance lovers will enjoy this book, as well as the humorous parts splashed in.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 11, 2022
When the magic of Christmas is forever changed by the loss of the sister you shared everything with-how do you continue to keep the magic alive in yourself? How do you get the promotion you deserve that’s been all but promised to you, but now seems to be going to your horrible ex’s new girl? How do you handle the cute stranger from the coffee shop and his sweater wearing pup?
All of this and more is exactly what you get when you pick up this adorable Christmas adventure by Lindsay Jesionowski. A follow up novella to the first book in her West Virgina series, Alone Together, this book continues to explore life after losing a loved one, and even though it feels like the world should stop spinning in the midst of such deep, abiding grief-we have to learn how to continue to live and learn to love.
Josie and Kevin are without a doubt one of the sweetest couples, and thought both have experienced trauma and heartache, the way they build each other up (and maybe have been for far longer than they both think 😉) is so beautiful and heartwarming. More than once I had to stop and feel the heartache or the warm and fuzzies. These heavy issues were handled with such love and care, while still feeling so real. Lindsey is a queen at writing these characters and I will devour every single one of the books in this series happily.
I also laughed out loud more times than I could could-the spa scene anyone?-and every adventure was so much fun.
I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your TBR as we move into the holidays. I found that while you don’t necessarily HAVE to read Alone Together first, but I definitely recommend it (but I also just highly recommend Alone Together!)
Thank you to Lindsey for an ARC of this book! All opinions and reviews are my own 🥰
All of this and more is exactly what you get when you pick up this adorable Christmas adventure by Lindsay Jesionowski. A follow up novella to the first book in her West Virgina series, Alone Together, this book continues to explore life after losing a loved one, and even though it feels like the world should stop spinning in the midst of such deep, abiding grief-we have to learn how to continue to live and learn to love.
Josie and Kevin are without a doubt one of the sweetest couples, and thought both have experienced trauma and heartache, the way they build each other up (and maybe have been for far longer than they both think 😉) is so beautiful and heartwarming. More than once I had to stop and feel the heartache or the warm and fuzzies. These heavy issues were handled with such love and care, while still feeling so real. Lindsey is a queen at writing these characters and I will devour every single one of the books in this series happily.
I also laughed out loud more times than I could could-the spa scene anyone?-and every adventure was so much fun.
I HIGHLY recommend adding this to your TBR as we move into the holidays. I found that while you don’t necessarily HAVE to read Alone Together first, but I definitely recommend it (but I also just highly recommend Alone Together!)
Thank you to Lindsey for an ARC of this book! All opinions and reviews are my own 🥰
November 4, 2022
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to the author, who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of this book, for my Kindle, in return for my honest review.
Mishaps and Mistletoe is a very sweet, feel-good holiday romantic comedy, with slow-burn chemistry and plenty of sizzle and spice and I absolutely loved everything about it!
The theme of the story is rediscovering Christmas and the way it was written was so perfect and magical and definitely reminded me of an Hallmark Christmas movie!
I thought that this book was so Christmassy and super sweet, full of funny moments and extremely heartwarming and I absolutely loved it!
This book is a shorter novella and book number 1.5 in the ‘When In West Virginia’ series of books but can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
Mishaps and Mistletoe is a very sweet, feel-good holiday romantic comedy, with slow-burn chemistry and plenty of sizzle and spice and I absolutely loved everything about it!
The theme of the story is rediscovering Christmas and the way it was written was so perfect and magical and definitely reminded me of an Hallmark Christmas movie!
I thought that this book was so Christmassy and super sweet, full of funny moments and extremely heartwarming and I absolutely loved it!
This book is a shorter novella and book number 1.5 in the ‘When In West Virginia’ series of books but can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
November 3, 2022
Well. I wasn't expecting this book to be a rundown of my family. It got personal! Man whose mom was an addict? My husband is a recovering addict. Man who was a foster kid? We adopted 4 foster children. Man who has dyslexia? At least one of our children has dyslexia, and I suspect another one does, as well. Wow!
And then you have the klutzy woman who has sworn off men (that one isn't so personal).
This book was good. Lots of heart, a few heartbreaking moments, some laughs, and tons of feel-good...uh, feelings. I adore the banter between Johnny and Josie, and as much as I thought they would be at the beginning, I'm really glad they weren't ever a couple. That would have been weird.
Two thumbs up!
*I was given this book by the author/publisher, and was not required to leave a review. Opinions are my own.*
And then you have the klutzy woman who has sworn off men (that one isn't so personal).
This book was good. Lots of heart, a few heartbreaking moments, some laughs, and tons of feel-good...uh, feelings. I adore the banter between Johnny and Josie, and as much as I thought they would be at the beginning, I'm really glad they weren't ever a couple. That would have been weird.
Two thumbs up!
*I was given this book by the author/publisher, and was not required to leave a review. Opinions are my own.*
November 11, 2022
This Christmas novella was adorable. I loved the second chance that Kevin and Josie had a romance. It was a bonus that it took place during the Christmas season. This book is full of amazing puns, tons of laughs and a best friend who with the help of a blast from Josie’s past, tries to bring back the Christmas spirit Josie lost years ago with the death of her sister. The settings in West Virginia and more specifically the Ogleby are amazing and so well described I felt I was right there sipping hot cocoa and listening to Christmas carols. I love a good epilogue, and this one did not disappoint.
Johnny was such a hilarious side character. I’m glad we saw more of him in this book. I’ve always wanted to do what he did when I order beverages at my local coffee shops but I’ve never had the guts to do it.
Thank you Lindsey for my review copy. This review is my own.
Johnny was such a hilarious side character. I’m glad we saw more of him in this book. I’ve always wanted to do what he did when I order beverages at my local coffee shops but I’ve never had the guts to do it.
Thank you Lindsey for my review copy. This review is my own.
December 17, 2023
🌲 ☃️. 🌲 ❄️ 🎄 🦌 🛷
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 5/5
Place:
Tropes: dyslexia, slow-burn chemistry, mild language, and plenty of sizzle and spice without on-page explicit content;
TW: Public Humiliation, Shaming by Soon To Be In Law, death of a family member,
Main Characters: Josie & Kevin
Josie- "Words are just words until we assign meaning to them. Most of the nasty things people spew are reflections of their own lives and have less to do with you than you think."
Johnny- "Life’s gonna pass you by whether or not you take part in it.”
I really enjoyed this sweet romance! I loved being able to see the journey and growth of these two characters. I felt some type of way when they finally were able to admit their feeling and then explore them.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Spice Level: 🌶️
Chemistry: 🧪🧪🧪🧪🧪
Plot: 5/5
Place:
Tropes: dyslexia, slow-burn chemistry, mild language, and plenty of sizzle and spice without on-page explicit content;
TW: Public Humiliation, Shaming by Soon To Be In Law, death of a family member,
Main Characters: Josie & Kevin
Josie- "Words are just words until we assign meaning to them. Most of the nasty things people spew are reflections of their own lives and have less to do with you than you think."
Johnny- "Life’s gonna pass you by whether or not you take part in it.”
I really enjoyed this sweet romance! I loved being able to see the journey and growth of these two characters. I felt some type of way when they finally were able to admit their feeling and then explore them.
November 3, 2022
The story
Josie’s last happy Christmastime was just before her beloved sister Courtney was killed by a drunk driver. Since then, life hasn’t been the same, a broken engagement and a man-ban, she has lost the Christmas spirit. When she bumps into burly Kevin in her favourite coffee shop, and then again in the park, they realise that they met when they were teens and were each other’s first kiss. Can Josie allow herself to find happiness? Can Kevin get over his feelings of inadequacy for give Josie a chance?
My thoughts
I really enjoyed Lindsey Jesionowski’s debut Alone Together and was so pleased to have the opportunity to read the eARC of this follow up holiday novella. It’s a feel good, serendipitous second time around meet cute, with fun holiday themed dates and activities to get you in the mood for celebrating. I loved how both Josie and Kevin had never forgotten their first kiss under the seaweed 😆 and still found their way to each other after all these years. It’s almost as if Courtney was doing her angel-magic, sending happiness to her sister. ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
Josie’s last happy Christmastime was just before her beloved sister Courtney was killed by a drunk driver. Since then, life hasn’t been the same, a broken engagement and a man-ban, she has lost the Christmas spirit. When she bumps into burly Kevin in her favourite coffee shop, and then again in the park, they realise that they met when they were teens and were each other’s first kiss. Can Josie allow herself to find happiness? Can Kevin get over his feelings of inadequacy for give Josie a chance?
My thoughts
I really enjoyed Lindsey Jesionowski’s debut Alone Together and was so pleased to have the opportunity to read the eARC of this follow up holiday novella. It’s a feel good, serendipitous second time around meet cute, with fun holiday themed dates and activities to get you in the mood for celebrating. I loved how both Josie and Kevin had never forgotten their first kiss under the seaweed 😆 and still found their way to each other after all these years. It’s almost as if Courtney was doing her angel-magic, sending happiness to her sister. ❤️
Read an eARC copy courtesy of the author
My rating 4/5 - ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
November 3, 2022
**Spoiler Free**
Tis the season... and what fun! M&M is the perfect novella to get you into the holiday spirit and keep you cozy once those temperatures drop.
There's something magical about second chances and the season. You're going to want to add this delightful romance to your holiday TBR. It's heartwarming, full of Lindsey's signature wit, and laugh-out-loud punchlines and puns.
True to Jesionowski's style in her debut, her characters will have you smiling page after page. The story made me think about all the ways I want to celebrate, what matters most, and who we share our heart with.
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy.
I want white hot chocolate (and a massage) now. ☕🎄💕
Tis the season... and what fun! M&M is the perfect novella to get you into the holiday spirit and keep you cozy once those temperatures drop.
There's something magical about second chances and the season. You're going to want to add this delightful romance to your holiday TBR. It's heartwarming, full of Lindsey's signature wit, and laugh-out-loud punchlines and puns.
True to Jesionowski's style in her debut, her characters will have you smiling page after page. The story made me think about all the ways I want to celebrate, what matters most, and who we share our heart with.
Thanks to the author for an advanced copy.
I want white hot chocolate (and a massage) now. ☕🎄💕
November 3, 2022
Josie was such a klutz 😂 she couldn't catch a break, let alone her balance 😂 I loved their meet-cute, and the many run-ins after that 😂 Oh the massage fiasco 🔥🥵😂 Kevin didn't seem to mind it at all 😂 Absolutely loved their second first kiss. It was magic 😍
I loved coming along with them on their dates that they didn't call dates but I considered as such and won't be taking any questions at this time 🙈😂
Johnny was the best friend a girl could ask for. I can't wait for his story. Definitely looking forward to it!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of this book.
I loved coming along with them on their dates that they didn't call dates but I considered as such and won't be taking any questions at this time 🙈😂
Johnny was the best friend a girl could ask for. I can't wait for his story. Definitely looking forward to it!
Thank you so much to the author for sending me an ARC of this book.
October 1, 2022
I love Kevin & Josie's sweet,messy, heartachingly beautiful, swoony story!!!
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