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Calico Cove #3.5
Her Fake Date for Christmas
What do you do when the dates are fake but the feelings are real? Hope for a Christmas Miracle…
Almost everyone in Calico Cove knows how I feel about Mari…well, except for Mari. Truth is, I’ve had a serious crush on her since high school but I’ve been friend-zoned.
Only now, her jerk face ex-boyfriend is back in town filming a Christmas movie and she needs me to be her fake fiancé to prove she’s moved on with her life.
What do I want in exchange? Real Christmas dates. Hot chocolate, sledding, cookie baking, all of it. Oh and did I mention the kisses? Yeah, there will be nothing fake about those.
Authors Note: This friends to lovers, holiday rom com has a dirty-talking good guy, a bat hiding in a Christmas tree, a runaway cat and two meddling dads making sure this Christmas has a happily ever after for everyone.
Almost everyone in Calico Cove knows how I feel about Mari…well, except for Mari. Truth is, I’ve had a serious crush on her since high school but I’ve been friend-zoned.
Only now, her jerk face ex-boyfriend is back in town filming a Christmas movie and she needs me to be her fake fiancé to prove she’s moved on with her life.
What do I want in exchange? Real Christmas dates. Hot chocolate, sledding, cookie baking, all of it. Oh and did I mention the kisses? Yeah, there will be nothing fake about those.
Authors Note: This friends to lovers, holiday rom com has a dirty-talking good guy, a bat hiding in a Christmas tree, a runaway cat and two meddling dads making sure this Christmas has a happily ever after for everyone.
166 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2022
336 people are currently reading
391 people want to read
About the author
Hailey Shore
16 books203 followersI love cold wine, hot coffee and writing swoony rom coms.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
November 19, 2023
4.5 Secret Caveman Stars ⭐
"I don’t believe in the fairy tale either, Mari. When I fall in love, I’ll believe in the person I love."
Bobby and Mari have known each other since kids. Having grown up together in the small town of Calico Cove, it seems that everyone knows about Bobby's forever crush except for Mari.
Having returned from New York, Mari is back working at the family bakery. Although she's not the same person she once was, Bobby would take her any which way. And I guess that's how he finds himself as the fake fiance with lots of practicing required...
Her breath shuddered. My dick ached.
Yes, this was the magic I’d been looking for. Did she feel it? I couldn’t be alone in this.
Sheriff Bobby Tanner was like an enthusiastic Labrador. I loved his tenacity, the way he worshipped Mari and his take charge attitude in the bedroom. But most importantly the way he enabled and encouraged Mari to trust and love again.
The whole Christmas theme was perfectly encompassed in this story. It was romantic, humorous and racy. That moment when Mari finally realises what was under her nose the entire time, Bobby was overwhelmed. So delightful!
"I don’t believe in the fairy tale either, Mari. When I fall in love, I’ll believe in the person I love."
Bobby and Mari have known each other since kids. Having grown up together in the small town of Calico Cove, it seems that everyone knows about Bobby's forever crush except for Mari.
Having returned from New York, Mari is back working at the family bakery. Although she's not the same person she once was, Bobby would take her any which way. And I guess that's how he finds himself as the fake fiance with lots of practicing required...
Her breath shuddered. My dick ached.
Yes, this was the magic I’d been looking for. Did she feel it? I couldn’t be alone in this.
Sheriff Bobby Tanner was like an enthusiastic Labrador. I loved his tenacity, the way he worshipped Mari and his take charge attitude in the bedroom. But most importantly the way he enabled and encouraged Mari to trust and love again.
The whole Christmas theme was perfectly encompassed in this story. It was romantic, humorous and racy. That moment when Mari finally realises what was under her nose the entire time, Bobby was overwhelmed. So delightful!
November 23, 2023
Isabella has been reading this series and tempting me with her reviews for months so when I saw her review for this one, I decided to make it my intro to the author's work cause Christmas, golden retriever energy, and "it's always been you"? Sign me up!
I adored Bobby (H) and his adoration of Mari (h) from the prologue in high school to the start of the book a few years later. These two have known each other since they were little kids and he's had a crush on her for years. He's the sheriff now and Mari's returned to her small hometown to work at her mom's bakery after being in NYC. Bobby is her good friend and a good guy and suffering from being constantly overlooked by Mari, when everyone in town knows he's crazy about her, except for her. But his chance is coming, because Mari's ex, that destroyed her artistic dreams, has come to town thanks to a Christmas movie filming and she claims Bobby as her fiancé. Mari thinks it's all fake and Bobby is going to turn fake into real. Their romance was fun, funny, sweet, and had emotional undercurrents, all with a heaping dose of the holidays and small town. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, some om drama from h's ex being an ass, and neither were virgins (very little given on their histories - we know H had hookups sometimes and h was with her ex but unknown about anyone else, neither seemed to flaunt anyone in front of the other).
From the hints of their youth to the Christmas dates Bobby takes Mari on to the realness that develops, I enjoyed their romance. Mari's prickly but also feels deeply, while trying to protect herself. Bobby was caring and supportive. It was nice to lean into their history, but also have them be surprised at discovering new information about each other. Also, Mari learning that Bobby had some caveman tendencies and a dirty mouth was awesome. I did spend a good amount of time laughing and swooning, but also worried that Bobby had heartbreak headed his way. Their connection though was built well and the steamy scenes were so spicy!
I didn't love the storyline about Mari's ex and his shadiness. It felt a little messagey about fighting toxic men taking advantage of women (which is important, don't get me wrong), but shoehorned in to what was otherwise a lighter and sweet holiday romance about a relationship finally getting its chance. I was glad that the ex appeared to be getting his comeuppance though. It takes a while for Mari's past with him to be fully revealed and then I was so enraged on her behalf.
Side characters got a chance to shine next to our main couple. I think a few already had their romances, this does read as a standalone with no issue, and there are hints for others in the future. Bobby's dads and Mari's mom were especially wonderful and loving of their kids. We need more supportive families in romance and it lights me up every time I see them.
The final conflict confused me a little, I had a sense that it would be coming, but the way it played out on page wasn't my favorite and didn't feel like it fit the characters imo. But it's resolved quickly and in a way that let Mari show how much she felt for Bobby, which he needed. I loved that for him after pining for her for so long. The ending is HFN with another cute Christmasy moment and adorable. I'm assuming that they'll show up throughout the series so no extended epilogue, but still it left me feeling satisfied and happy.
I adored Bobby (H) and his adoration of Mari (h) from the prologue in high school to the start of the book a few years later. These two have known each other since they were little kids and he's had a crush on her for years. He's the sheriff now and Mari's returned to her small hometown to work at her mom's bakery after being in NYC. Bobby is her good friend and a good guy and suffering from being constantly overlooked by Mari, when everyone in town knows he's crazy about her, except for her. But his chance is coming, because Mari's ex, that destroyed her artistic dreams, has come to town thanks to a Christmas movie filming and she claims Bobby as her fiancé. Mari thinks it's all fake and Bobby is going to turn fake into real. Their romance was fun, funny, sweet, and had emotional undercurrents, all with a heaping dose of the holidays and small town. Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, some om drama from h's ex being an ass, and neither were virgins (very little given on their histories - we know H had hookups sometimes and h was with her ex but unknown about anyone else, neither seemed to flaunt anyone in front of the other).
From the hints of their youth to the Christmas dates Bobby takes Mari on to the realness that develops, I enjoyed their romance. Mari's prickly but also feels deeply, while trying to protect herself. Bobby was caring and supportive. It was nice to lean into their history, but also have them be surprised at discovering new information about each other. Also, Mari learning that Bobby had some caveman tendencies and a dirty mouth was awesome. I did spend a good amount of time laughing and swooning, but also worried that Bobby had heartbreak headed his way. Their connection though was built well and the steamy scenes were so spicy!
I didn't love the storyline about Mari's ex and his shadiness. It felt a little messagey about fighting toxic men taking advantage of women (which is important, don't get me wrong), but shoehorned in to what was otherwise a lighter and sweet holiday romance about a relationship finally getting its chance. I was glad that the ex appeared to be getting his comeuppance though. It takes a while for Mari's past with him to be fully revealed and then I was so enraged on her behalf.
Side characters got a chance to shine next to our main couple. I think a few already had their romances, this does read as a standalone with no issue, and there are hints for others in the future. Bobby's dads and Mari's mom were especially wonderful and loving of their kids. We need more supportive families in romance and it lights me up every time I see them.
The final conflict confused me a little, I had a sense that it would be coming, but the way it played out on page wasn't my favorite and didn't feel like it fit the characters imo. But it's resolved quickly and in a way that let Mari show how much she felt for Bobby, which he needed. I loved that for him after pining for her for so long. The ending is HFN with another cute Christmasy moment and adorable. I'm assuming that they'll show up throughout the series so no extended epilogue, but still it left me feeling satisfied and happy.
March 31, 2023
3.75 stars
I thought this would be my least favorite Calico Cove, but I loved it! It’s a close second to the first one.
I normally hate stories where the MMC is a cop, but it turns out that if he has two hippy dads and is kind, fun, chill, and a feminist, I’m don’t mind it as much😂 Mari’s story has been hinted at in the previous books and I really loved knowing all that happened/diving into her character.
This felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but short (it’s a novella) and with sex and it was great. I think we got to appreciate and experience the town more-so in this one than in any others, which I loved.
I swear though, in each book, Hailey brings in so many new interesting, unique male characters - at the end of this book there are at least 3-4 men that she’s set up to have really interesting stories in Calico Cove. I don’t know where all these women are hiding in this town but I can’t wait to read about it 😂 (I’m especially excited for Antony the reclusive famous chef and Levi the Nat. Geo photographer).
I thought this would be my least favorite Calico Cove, but I loved it! It’s a close second to the first one.
I normally hate stories where the MMC is a cop, but it turns out that if he has two hippy dads and is kind, fun, chill, and a feminist, I’m don’t mind it as much😂 Mari’s story has been hinted at in the previous books and I really loved knowing all that happened/diving into her character.
This felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but short (it’s a novella) and with sex and it was great. I think we got to appreciate and experience the town more-so in this one than in any others, which I loved.
I swear though, in each book, Hailey brings in so many new interesting, unique male characters - at the end of this book there are at least 3-4 men that she’s set up to have really interesting stories in Calico Cove. I don’t know where all these women are hiding in this town but I can’t wait to read about it 😂 (I’m especially excited for Antony the reclusive famous chef and Levi the Nat. Geo photographer).
December 15, 2022
Fun, short sexy story where long time friends pretend to be engaged to ward off an old boyfriend. They soon find themselves not pretending. The inner monologue of the characters was the best part of the writing style.
December 7, 2022
Found it a little off putting when the H described another woman as “the sexiest woman in the room” like, quite close to the end of the book yikes
November 19, 2025
2 ⭐️
baby’s first small town sheriff mmc
baby’s first small town sheriff mmc
May 1, 2023
Her Fake Date for Christmas
Bobby and Mari
Childhood friends to lovers
This was a very short Christmas story set in Calico Cove.
Mari has always dreamed of being an artist. After graduation, she leaves her small hometown and sets out to make her dreams come true. In New York City. There she meets a guy who says all the right things, does what he can to help her career along. Until he throws her to the wolves and humiliates her in a very public way. She leaves school and returns home to help her mother in her bakery. Making art in a different way, beautiful cakes and pastries. But she’s never that happy, enthusiastic artist anymore.
Bobby has loved Mari since kindergarten. As they grew up and went through school, he’s never wavered in his feelings for her. Now he’s working his dream job as the sheriff of Calico Cove. He still loves Mari, but sees that she has serious walls up that he’s going to need to slowly break through.
When the whole town is called together for a huge announcement, no one is expecting that their little town has been chosen for the location of a new holiday movie. Starring one of their own local actresses and the most popular romantic actor, Jake Foxhall. The same Jake that ruined Mari’s dreams.
When Mari introduces Bobby as her fiancé, he sees an opportunity to spend time with her and start tearing down her walls.
As a short story it moves very quickly. But it didn’t feel like you were missing anything. It’s well written. The characters are great.
I loved Bobby. He was the perfect small town sheriff. Always the peacekeeper, the good guy. Until he went all alpha male in the bedroom. Very hot.
Mari was difficult. She wants what she sees her friends having, but she’s afraid to open herself up to heartbreak again. She trusts Bobby. But is still hesitant.
Dual points of view, no cheating. One tiny blip before they find that happy ending.
Bobby and Mari
Childhood friends to lovers
This was a very short Christmas story set in Calico Cove.
Mari has always dreamed of being an artist. After graduation, she leaves her small hometown and sets out to make her dreams come true. In New York City. There she meets a guy who says all the right things, does what he can to help her career along. Until he throws her to the wolves and humiliates her in a very public way. She leaves school and returns home to help her mother in her bakery. Making art in a different way, beautiful cakes and pastries. But she’s never that happy, enthusiastic artist anymore.
Bobby has loved Mari since kindergarten. As they grew up and went through school, he’s never wavered in his feelings for her. Now he’s working his dream job as the sheriff of Calico Cove. He still loves Mari, but sees that she has serious walls up that he’s going to need to slowly break through.
When the whole town is called together for a huge announcement, no one is expecting that their little town has been chosen for the location of a new holiday movie. Starring one of their own local actresses and the most popular romantic actor, Jake Foxhall. The same Jake that ruined Mari’s dreams.
When Mari introduces Bobby as her fiancé, he sees an opportunity to spend time with her and start tearing down her walls.
As a short story it moves very quickly. But it didn’t feel like you were missing anything. It’s well written. The characters are great.
I loved Bobby. He was the perfect small town sheriff. Always the peacekeeper, the good guy. Until he went all alpha male in the bedroom. Very hot.
Mari was difficult. She wants what she sees her friends having, but she’s afraid to open herself up to heartbreak again. She trusts Bobby. But is still hesitant.
Dual points of view, no cheating. One tiny blip before they find that happy ending.
June 24, 2023
Tropes/Key Points:
🎄Novella
🎄Fake Dating
🎄Small Town Romance
🎄Childhood Friends to Lovers
🎄Second Chance Romance
🎄Dual POV
Review:
I'm not one who reads a lot of Novellas and I didn't realize that's what this book was when I got it from Kindle Unlimited. I have been tearing through this series by an amazing author and when I saw this was next, I just hit download.
I normally avoid Novella's just because of their fast pace. I don't mind books that are quick on the draw but for the most part, they never really give you a chance to get into the story before it's over. In this case, I didn't feel like that.
I don't know if its because the previous (Interconnected Stand Alone) books in this series give you little hints of these characters, or if its just the the way the author manages to show us everything we need to know in those first few pages. Regardless of the rhyme or reason, I absolutely loved this book.
I liked that it was set around Christmas time and was giving our small town of Calico Cove some well deserved notoriety. The rest of the books are set around the summer months, so having this one be a holiday romance was a nice change of pace.
I really enjoyed getting to delve into Mari's character. We have been teased mildly throughout the last three books about her and Bobby, but getting to peak behind the curtain and have these side characters be fleshed out was great.
I really love how this author hints at who the next coupe will be in her book in a way that makes you want to rush and pick it up.
I think this author has a dedicated fan in me because I have seen how she has grown over these four books. Her confidence is outstanding and she has taken out those small irritants that I feel are present in every book at the beginning of a series. I am eager to see what she does next!
🎄Novella
🎄Fake Dating
🎄Small Town Romance
🎄Childhood Friends to Lovers
🎄Second Chance Romance
🎄Dual POV
Review:
I'm not one who reads a lot of Novellas and I didn't realize that's what this book was when I got it from Kindle Unlimited. I have been tearing through this series by an amazing author and when I saw this was next, I just hit download.
I normally avoid Novella's just because of their fast pace. I don't mind books that are quick on the draw but for the most part, they never really give you a chance to get into the story before it's over. In this case, I didn't feel like that.
I don't know if its because the previous (Interconnected Stand Alone) books in this series give you little hints of these characters, or if its just the the way the author manages to show us everything we need to know in those first few pages. Regardless of the rhyme or reason, I absolutely loved this book.
I liked that it was set around Christmas time and was giving our small town of Calico Cove some well deserved notoriety. The rest of the books are set around the summer months, so having this one be a holiday romance was a nice change of pace.
I really enjoyed getting to delve into Mari's character. We have been teased mildly throughout the last three books about her and Bobby, but getting to peak behind the curtain and have these side characters be fleshed out was great.
I really love how this author hints at who the next coupe will be in her book in a way that makes you want to rush and pick it up.
I think this author has a dedicated fan in me because I have seen how she has grown over these four books. Her confidence is outstanding and she has taken out those small irritants that I feel are present in every book at the beginning of a series. I am eager to see what she does next!
December 5, 2022
A perfectly crafted Christmas novella
Hailey Shore is a new author, discovered, by me, at least, late in 2022. She has rapidly become one of my favourite writers of romcom.
This novella sees our cinnamon roll hero Bobby, see his chance with his long time crush Mari.
When it comes to Christmas, I am Scrooge, just like Mari, and fully appreciate her mordant view of all things festive. Bobby is a Dudley Do Right character, his upright public persona delightfully contrasted with his equally upright inner-caveman in private.
Because it’s a novella, the pacing is rapid, but there's a lot going on in a short space. Nothing feels rushed, but there’s no unnecessary angst. As ever, Hailey Shore’s dialogue is a delight, sharp, witty and very funny.
To my taste, Christmas stories are often ruined by an overdose of sentimentality. Her Fake Date fir Christmas avoids the saccharine, without sacrificing sweetness.
Even Scrooge here enjoyed this small town white Christmas. There’s plenty of heat, and just enough darkness to add depth and heart. Like the perfect Christmas cookie: sweet, warm, lot of spice and entirely irresistible.
Fav quote. “Sure,” Bobby said without hesitation. “Before we go, do you want me to hold this asshole while you punch him? I’d do the punching for you, but I’m a feminist.”
PS Hailey Shore. I hope I detected some hints to the characters of future books!
Hailey Shore is a new author, discovered, by me, at least, late in 2022. She has rapidly become one of my favourite writers of romcom.
This novella sees our cinnamon roll hero Bobby, see his chance with his long time crush Mari.
When it comes to Christmas, I am Scrooge, just like Mari, and fully appreciate her mordant view of all things festive. Bobby is a Dudley Do Right character, his upright public persona delightfully contrasted with his equally upright inner-caveman in private.
Because it’s a novella, the pacing is rapid, but there's a lot going on in a short space. Nothing feels rushed, but there’s no unnecessary angst. As ever, Hailey Shore’s dialogue is a delight, sharp, witty and very funny.
To my taste, Christmas stories are often ruined by an overdose of sentimentality. Her Fake Date fir Christmas avoids the saccharine, without sacrificing sweetness.
Even Scrooge here enjoyed this small town white Christmas. There’s plenty of heat, and just enough darkness to add depth and heart. Like the perfect Christmas cookie: sweet, warm, lot of spice and entirely irresistible.
Fav quote. “Sure,” Bobby said without hesitation. “Before we go, do you want me to hold this asshole while you punch him? I’d do the punching for you, but I’m a feminist.”
PS Hailey Shore. I hope I detected some hints to the characters of future books!
June 1, 2023
— I don’t believe in the fairy tale either, Mari. When I fall in love, I’ll believe in the person I love.
This is a book to swoon all along. 🥹😍
I passed half of this book smiling like a fool.
Mari owns the city bakery, but in the past she was a painter. Something happened in NY that changed her forever.
Bobby is the city’s sherif and Mari’s friend since kindgarten - and totally madly deeply in love with her all along.
When Mari’s abusive ex arrives in Calico Cove, she fakes an engagement with Bobby. Now he’s totally invested in make this fake come true.
What a delicious friends-to-lovers-with-fake-dating story ❤️
Bobby is the golden retriever hero, loved by everybody. But he has an unexpected caveman side that surprised Mari (and me!) for the best! 🥵
Mari is the ultimate Christmas hater 😂. But she found a way to express her art in bakery style. I loved “she hates everybody but him” vibes!
Their friendship always wanted to be more and I enjoyed a lot reading their love grow.
I’m a goner for Calico Cove ❤️
I love all the people, how they support each other, how all the stories connects somehow.
I can’t wait for the next ones. ✨
P.S.: Oh I’d love to read asshole Jake’s fall! I’m vindictive this way.
June 2, 2024
Bobby has been in love with Mari pretty much for forever, but hasn't been able to come right out and tell her. When a college ex shows up in town, Mari asks Bobby to pretend to be her fiancée, and he sees it as his golden opportunity to finally get the relationship he's been dreaming of.
I'm a total sucker for a man who's been pining forever, and Bobby is an excellent piner. He's so sweet and considerate, with a bit of debauchery to keep things interesting. I thought he was a great character, and this whole thing was just adorably sweet.
One big thing really kept this from being a 5-star for me, though. We know from the beginning of the story that Bobby has had it bad for Mari forever, and when they finally hook up he tells her that he hasn't dated anyone because he thought it wouldn't be fair to another woman to date them while he really wanted to be with Mari
I'm a total sucker for a man who's been pining forever, and Bobby is an excellent piner. He's so sweet and considerate, with a bit of debauchery to keep things interesting. I thought he was a great character, and this whole thing was just adorably sweet.
One big thing really kept this from being a 5-star for me, though. We know from the beginning of the story that Bobby has had it bad for Mari forever, and when they finally hook up he tells her that he hasn't dated anyone because he thought it wouldn't be fair to another woman to date them while he really wanted to be with Mari
December 13, 2022
Her Fake Date for Christmas, while only 15 chapters with a prologue and an epilogue, was full of everything you'd find in a full-length novel. It had drama, humor, angst, bullies, heroes, heroines, friends, enemies, and lovers. It had pain and laughter, happiness and heartbreak. You'll find all of the push and pull a reader longs for in a novel in this short but sweet story.
The characters had the maturity, and yet they still had room to grow and improve...and they did it in such a way that was believable and realistic. The story started out slow, but the burn was a welcoming build-up to the scorch that one would desire to see in a well-written work of art.
The dialogue was done so that it could have been written at any time in history and still be enjoyed without a struggle to understand what was being said/done. The descriptions of the town and scenery drew the reader to the point it was like being on-site and witnessing it in person. The smells the author wrote about were almost leaping out of the story and into the air.
This was definitely a well-written, fully-developed story that deserved a five-star rating and to be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
The characters had the maturity, and yet they still had room to grow and improve...and they did it in such a way that was believable and realistic. The story started out slow, but the burn was a welcoming build-up to the scorch that one would desire to see in a well-written work of art.
The dialogue was done so that it could have been written at any time in history and still be enjoyed without a struggle to understand what was being said/done. The descriptions of the town and scenery drew the reader to the point it was like being on-site and witnessing it in person. The smells the author wrote about were almost leaping out of the story and into the air.
This was definitely a well-written, fully-developed story that deserved a five-star rating and to be added to the Keeper for the Shelves collection.
February 11, 2025
A great way to end
This was the last book for me in the Calico Cove series and it was a good one. Because all the stories of the other residents had already been resolved, this was just about Mari and Bobby, the bakery artist and the sheriff. Their love story was marred by an actor from Mari's past as Mari was just coming to realize what real love is and the depth real love encompasses. However, with work Mari overcomes the stumbling blocks, some self made, between her and Bobby and they move toward their happily ever after.
This is a well written interesting story with some satisfying plot surprises. I am going to miss visiting Calico Cove and wish there was another continuing book awaiting me. I guess that's the best compliment that you can give an author. Thank you Hailey Shore for these stories.
This was the last book for me in the Calico Cove series and it was a good one. Because all the stories of the other residents had already been resolved, this was just about Mari and Bobby, the bakery artist and the sheriff. Their love story was marred by an actor from Mari's past as Mari was just coming to realize what real love is and the depth real love encompasses. However, with work Mari overcomes the stumbling blocks, some self made, between her and Bobby and they move toward their happily ever after.
This is a well written interesting story with some satisfying plot surprises. I am going to miss visiting Calico Cove and wish there was another continuing book awaiting me. I guess that's the best compliment that you can give an author. Thank you Hailey Shore for these stories.
February 28, 2025
OMG! Awwww!!
This whole book was downright adorable and schmexy and fun!
As the blurb says her ex comes to town so she kisses Bobby and the agree to fake date. He’s had feelings for her for YEARS AND YEARS though and they have been friends for about as long so it doesn’t stay fake for very long. It takes her a little longer to catch up but they are soooo good together!
And he is the EPITOME of golden retriever energy who knows how to switch it up and become a “bull dog”/caveman at times lol
I absolutely ADORED how she stood up for herself to her AH ex also! Very poetic! And I also loved that Bobby just stood by and let her have her moment while not letting AH be alone with Mari!
Gah! These two are just gush worthy lol
This whole book was downright adorable and schmexy and fun!
As the blurb says her ex comes to town so she kisses Bobby and the agree to fake date. He’s had feelings for her for YEARS AND YEARS though and they have been friends for about as long so it doesn’t stay fake for very long. It takes her a little longer to catch up but they are soooo good together!
And he is the EPITOME of golden retriever energy who knows how to switch it up and become a “bull dog”/caveman at times lol
I absolutely ADORED how she stood up for herself to her AH ex also! Very poetic! And I also loved that Bobby just stood by and let her have her moment while not letting AH be alone with Mari!
Gah! These two are just gush worthy lol
January 10, 2024
Cute short story of Mari and Bobby. A lot of other calico cove stories mention them, so it was nice to see their story as well.
“Mari,” Bobby whispered against my lips. “Yeah,” I said back. “You’re kissing me.” “Just…please…” Begging was awful. Begging reminded me of Asshole Jake. But here I was, begging. Again. “Act like you like it.”
“I’m going to fill you with so much Christmas spirit, you’re going to wake up Christmas morning like Ebenezer Scrooge, run outside in your pajamas and start buying turkeys for everyone.” “But I sleep naked.” I couldn’t control the groan that came out of my throat.”
“Mari,” Bobby whispered against my lips. “Yeah,” I said back. “You’re kissing me.” “Just…please…” Begging was awful. Begging reminded me of Asshole Jake. But here I was, begging. Again. “Act like you like it.”
“I’m going to fill you with so much Christmas spirit, you’re going to wake up Christmas morning like Ebenezer Scrooge, run outside in your pajamas and start buying turkeys for everyone.” “But I sleep naked.” I couldn’t control the groan that came out of my throat.”
April 3, 2024
Absolutely loved this book. Bobby and Mari are childhood friends who went their separate ways. Mari to NY and Bobby stayed home to become Sheriff. Mari returned, but a bit broken. Bobby had always loved Mari and the book starts out with events from the past. As the story unravels, we find out exactly what happened to Mari and how she overcomes the fear of a fairytale ending with the man she has always loved. Great short read that packed a punch with love, humour and a whole lot of steaminess.
December 18, 2024
I absolutely adored this book! Hailey Shore is on my automatic buy list! Bobby is probably one of my favorite heroes. He loves Christmas and is a romantic. He’s been in love with Mari for most of his life. He finally gets a chance with her when she’s trying to avoid an old boyfriend. This book was well written with great conflict and lots of holiday fun! I listened to this book in audio. Samantha Brentmore is one of my favorite narrators. I thought the male narrator did a good job. I wasn’t as big of a fan of his female voice, but that’s my only complaint.
November 30, 2025
I loved this book. I struggled with the female character. But it All progresses a is explained. Works out for sure. The sheriff was amazing. Really liked him a lot.
I hopefully am not spoiling anything. I grew up and still live in a very small town. I used to tell my daughters they better not do something wrong because someone would call and tell me before they got home. Small town gossip is real.
Just the best (not perfect) people. LOVED THEM. Highly recommend this story to anyone that enjoys a Christmas themed tale, great story, charming people, and of course HEA.
I hopefully am not spoiling anything. I grew up and still live in a very small town. I used to tell my daughters they better not do something wrong because someone would call and tell me before they got home. Small town gossip is real.
Just the best (not perfect) people. LOVED THEM. Highly recommend this story to anyone that enjoys a Christmas themed tale, great story, charming people, and of course HEA.
December 8, 2022
4 stars
2.5 peppers
T R O P E S
- Best friends to lovers
- He fell first
- Fake dating/engagement
- Reverse Grump/Sunshine
- Swoony golden retriever MMC
T H O U G H T S
After reading The Grump, The Bride and The Baby, I was excited to read this novella, but it was a bit disappointing. I still loved it and would still recommend it, but it wasn't my favourite. Definitely gonna read her other books tho! I'm hooked on her writing!
2.5 peppers
T R O P E S
- Best friends to lovers
- He fell first
- Fake dating/engagement
- Reverse Grump/Sunshine
- Swoony golden retriever MMC
T H O U G H T S
After reading The Grump, The Bride and The Baby, I was excited to read this novella, but it was a bit disappointing. I still loved it and would still recommend it, but it wasn't my favourite. Definitely gonna read her other books tho! I'm hooked on her writing!
January 13, 2023
Great Novella
This little story was great except for the grammatical error. There were times I had to stop and reread then re-reread a sentiment to try to figure out what Ms. Shore meant to write. Editor take note. Proofread a little more carefully. But other then that I like how she brings humor and love through the pages. Not kidding, there were many laugh out loud moments in all the books of Hailey Shore's.
This little story was great except for the grammatical error. There were times I had to stop and reread then re-reread a sentiment to try to figure out what Ms. Shore meant to write. Editor take note. Proofread a little more carefully. But other then that I like how she brings humor and love through the pages. Not kidding, there were many laugh out loud moments in all the books of Hailey Shore's.
January 31, 2023
Too short! I wanted more
Wished it was a longer read like the others!!! I
Short but sweet.
Bobby and Mari fire as for years and Bobby has always loved her... Will Mari fire ally wake up and see who has been in front of her this whole time? Or will she let old pain get between them?
I really was looking forward to Mari story we met her and saw more of her in the last book and I liked her... Glad to see some of her past just a shame this wasn't longer !!
Wished it was a longer read like the others!!! I
Short but sweet.
Bobby and Mari fire as for years and Bobby has always loved her... Will Mari fire ally wake up and see who has been in front of her this whole time? Or will she let old pain get between them?
I really was looking forward to Mari story we met her and saw more of her in the last book and I liked her... Glad to see some of her past just a shame this wasn't longer !!
December 6, 2022
I loved it!
Ms Shore is a new author for me and really like the character development in this book. Usually the dynamics between the leads are forced and/or glossed over to make the story flow. Not in this one. Here, the dynamics between Mari and Bobby feel realistic and organic. I’ll be looking for more from Ms Shore.
Ms Shore is a new author for me and really like the character development in this book. Usually the dynamics between the leads are forced and/or glossed over to make the story flow. Not in this one. Here, the dynamics between Mari and Bobby feel realistic and organic. I’ll be looking for more from Ms Shore.
January 3, 2023
New author for me and I’ll definitely be reading her other books! So many good things- too many to list! I loved Every. Single. Character! I loved the two main characters, can’t wait to read more books about the secondary characters! The book had it all: hot moments, super sweet moments and was hilarious in several spots.
July 9, 2023
I am lovin' this series of books, in each book of the Calico Cove series, the characters get more interesting. I know that they will get together in the end, but.... the way they get there is always intriguing. I also like how the characters all interact throughout the books. Keep up the good work with writing these books.
August 3, 2023
loved it
Loving this series! I always love a series set in a cozy town, where you get to know the characters and they don’t just get left behind with their books, but have cameos in many more. Bobby and Mari have been popping up all over the series, loved their sweet little Christmas romance!
Loving this series! I always love a series set in a cozy town, where you get to know the characters and they don’t just get left behind with their books, but have cameos in many more. Bobby and Mari have been popping up all over the series, loved their sweet little Christmas romance!
July 11, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ cause once again while the story was fun and angsty a bit and sweet.. the ending was kind flat. HEA.. but idk I want more info from maybe a little later on. I know next story might have them but I much prefer a bit more of an epilogue being later on. Why is the next day an ‘epilogue’?? Makes not sense.
September 12, 2024
Easy 5 out of 5 stars
Hailey Shore knows how to write hilarity into such sexy romances. These are the kinds of stories I'd love to watch after reading the book. Sweet Bobby melted my heart at every turn and Cautious Mari made me ache for her. Then came the unique and a little unexpected HEA. Definitely a winner in my book.
Hailey Shore knows how to write hilarity into such sexy romances. These are the kinds of stories I'd love to watch after reading the book. Sweet Bobby melted my heart at every turn and Cautious Mari made me ache for her. Then came the unique and a little unexpected HEA. Definitely a winner in my book.
December 2, 2022
Excellent pacing, and I can be difficult to please when it comes to short format romance. Hero was great, definitely understand the reasons the heroine was gunshy, we stan a man who stands back and lets a woman slay her own dragon.
December 11, 2022
So much laughing
This book is sweet, funny, and smart. I'm not feeling so great, but I've spent the last few hours reading this. A percentage of that time was taken up by uproarious laughter. Mine. Read this steamy bit of Christmas cheer. You won't be sorry.
This book is sweet, funny, and smart. I'm not feeling so great, but I've spent the last few hours reading this. A percentage of that time was taken up by uproarious laughter. Mine. Read this steamy bit of Christmas cheer. You won't be sorry.
December 12, 2022
a great read
I loved this book, it was funny and sweet. Bobby and Mari had great banter and chemistry, so happy they got a HEA. I thought the book was a good length but would of loved to see where they are a few years down the track. Also love a dual POV.
I loved this book, it was funny and sweet. Bobby and Mari had great banter and chemistry, so happy they got a HEA. I thought the book was a good length but would of loved to see where they are a few years down the track. Also love a dual POV.
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