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Merry Ex-Mas
I haven’t been home for Christmas in eight years.
But that’s about to change. This year, I’m traveling to my small hometown to convince my producer to make me the permanent host of Good Day Denver.
The plan: Charm viewers by sharing my favorite family Christmas traditions, and in turn, get the likes, clicks and shares to land the job.
Not the plan: Running into my ex-boyfriend.
In my house.
For Christmas.
But here he is, a guest of my mother, who apparently had more trouble letting go of Max Weber than I did.
Unfortunately, he is as handsome and charming and talented and annoying and frustrating and flirty as ever.
Even more unfortunately, he seems to have a plan of his own—to convince me to give him a second chance.
Which is not happening.
There’s just one problem—my viewers love him. More than that, they love us. Me and Max. My ex.
The boy who broke my heart.
The boy I now have to fake flirt with to win over the hearts of my viewers.
But it’s not their hearts I’m worried about. . . it’s mine.
Merry Ex-Mas is a sweet, small town, second chance romance with a dash of not-so-fake flirting, a tiny bit of enemies to lovers and just enough forced proximity to make things sizzle.
But that’s about to change. This year, I’m traveling to my small hometown to convince my producer to make me the permanent host of Good Day Denver.
The plan: Charm viewers by sharing my favorite family Christmas traditions, and in turn, get the likes, clicks and shares to land the job.
Not the plan: Running into my ex-boyfriend.
In my house.
For Christmas.
But here he is, a guest of my mother, who apparently had more trouble letting go of Max Weber than I did.
Unfortunately, he is as handsome and charming and talented and annoying and frustrating and flirty as ever.
Even more unfortunately, he seems to have a plan of his own—to convince me to give him a second chance.
Which is not happening.
There’s just one problem—my viewers love him. More than that, they love us. Me and Max. My ex.
The boy who broke my heart.
The boy I now have to fake flirt with to win over the hearts of my viewers.
But it’s not their hearts I’m worried about. . . it’s mine.
Merry Ex-Mas is a sweet, small town, second chance romance with a dash of not-so-fake flirting, a tiny bit of enemies to lovers and just enough forced proximity to make things sizzle.
308 pages, Paperback
First published October 1, 2022
608 people are currently reading
9478 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Walsh
37 books5,608 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 918 reviews
January 9, 2023
4.5⭐️. I am a sucker for second chance love. Add in a Christmas setting full of all the holiday charm and traditions I wish I had in my life and I’m sold. This was such a fun Christmas read that definitely ended up being one of my favorites this month.
This book found the perfect balance between being too sappy and too sad. I liked the heavier topics addressed like overcoming grief. I felt so much for Max and connected with him instantly.
And Marin’s family - I just adored them and all their quirks, especially her Mom who tried so hard to deal with her own grief while trying to do all the holiday things Mom’s are supposed to do. The scene when they were trying to make the cookies on air had me in stitches. Add this one to your holiday TBR.
This book found the perfect balance between being too sappy and too sad. I liked the heavier topics addressed like overcoming grief. I felt so much for Max and connected with him instantly.
And Marin’s family - I just adored them and all their quirks, especially her Mom who tried so hard to deal with her own grief while trying to do all the holiday things Mom’s are supposed to do. The scene when they were trying to make the cookies on air had me in stitches. Add this one to your holiday TBR.
July 6, 2024
I look forward to each new book by Courtney Walsh, and Merry Ex-Mas was just the feel-good book I needed to sink into this holiday season.
About the book: “Merry Ex-Mas is a sweet, small town, second chance romance with a dash of not-so-fake flirting, a tiny bit of enemies to lovers and just enough forced proximity to make things sizzle.”
Merry Ex-Mas is the story of Marin and Max and their second chance at love. Max broke Marin’s heart when they were in college. Years later, they are forced back together, but will it work this time? Marin certainly does not think so! 😂
I loved the characters, especially Marin’s mom. I thought Marin grew as a character, and Max won me over by the end as well. There were so many sweet parts and a few that had me laughing. The story also involves grief and a sudden loss, which I felt was handled with care.
Overall, this was exactly what I needed and wanted to read right now, and I’m so grateful for the fun holiday escape.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
About the book: “Merry Ex-Mas is a sweet, small town, second chance romance with a dash of not-so-fake flirting, a tiny bit of enemies to lovers and just enough forced proximity to make things sizzle.”
Merry Ex-Mas is the story of Marin and Max and their second chance at love. Max broke Marin’s heart when they were in college. Years later, they are forced back together, but will it work this time? Marin certainly does not think so! 😂
I loved the characters, especially Marin’s mom. I thought Marin grew as a character, and Max won me over by the end as well. There were so many sweet parts and a few that had me laughing. The story also involves grief and a sudden loss, which I felt was handled with care.
Overall, this was exactly what I needed and wanted to read right now, and I’m so grateful for the fun holiday escape.
I received a gifted copy.
Many of my reviews can also be found on my blog: www.jennifertarheelreader.com and instagram: www.instagram.com/tarheelreader
December 7, 2022
such a cute, cheesy, fun and joyful holiday book!!!!
i caught myself smiling so big throughout the entire thing. i loved marin and how upfront she was. i adored the family dynamic. and it felt like this had every single trope ever??? childhood friends to lovers, second chance romance, small town and fake dating? yes. sign me up. obviously.
now here are some things i didn’t exactly love.. max’s whole miscommunication era. no thank u. also marin’s mom being obsessed w him kind of angered me a little. like i get it. but also can u take ur daughters side pls?🧍🏻♀️
anyway, i had a blast. and this was a really quick and cheerful read.
i caught myself smiling so big throughout the entire thing. i loved marin and how upfront she was. i adored the family dynamic. and it felt like this had every single trope ever??? childhood friends to lovers, second chance romance, small town and fake dating? yes. sign me up. obviously.
now here are some things i didn’t exactly love.. max’s whole miscommunication era. no thank u. also marin’s mom being obsessed w him kind of angered me a little. like i get it. but also can u take ur daughters side pls?🧍🏻♀️
anyway, i had a blast. and this was a really quick and cheerful read.
December 22, 2025
I’ll be honest, it took me a while to warm up to Marin McGrath.
But, when I understood where she was coming from….I was one of her biggest cheerleaders.
The dual pov made this one so enjoyable. Seeing how Marin’s actions affected Max Webber endeared him to me all the more. The angst and tension were spot on. I cried when Marin finally accepted what was making her act so awful towards Max.
Messages I loved:
💜To remember to give grace in abundance, even to myself
💜That I can’t force someone to deal with their grief the way I want them to
💜”Time doesn’t heal all wounds. Time gives you distance and perspective.”
“It’s hard when the one place on the planet with the most pain is the same place that feels the most like home.”
This quote reminded me to be kind to everyone this season, as I don’t know what’s going on behind the smile they present to the world.
But, when I understood where she was coming from….I was one of her biggest cheerleaders.
The dual pov made this one so enjoyable. Seeing how Marin’s actions affected Max Webber endeared him to me all the more. The angst and tension were spot on. I cried when Marin finally accepted what was making her act so awful towards Max.
Messages I loved:
💜To remember to give grace in abundance, even to myself
💜That I can’t force someone to deal with their grief the way I want them to
💜”Time doesn’t heal all wounds. Time gives you distance and perspective.”
“It’s hard when the one place on the planet with the most pain is the same place that feels the most like home.”
This quote reminded me to be kind to everyone this season, as I don’t know what’s going on behind the smile they present to the world.
November 22, 2022
Courtney can do no wrong when it comes to her Christmas books!!!
Read
December 14, 2024I got to page 153 and I am choosing to DNF.
I find the romance awkward and forced. The girl is either not into him or holding a grudge way too long. I did not enjoy reading their interactions the more they kept bickering.
The beginning started so strong, but it's too drawn out now for me to want to continue.
No language and was clean up to what I read.
I find the romance awkward and forced. The girl is either not into him or holding a grudge way too long. I did not enjoy reading their interactions the more they kept bickering.
The beginning started so strong, but it's too drawn out now for me to want to continue.
No language and was clean up to what I read.
October 27, 2022
I had really high hopes for this book, but unfortunately it didn’t live up to my expectations. For the first part of the book I didn’t like Max and was really frustrated with her parents as well for discounting her grief over her heartbreak. So many comments about moving on and letting things go, which I felt was unfair to Marin. I mean I would have been absolutely pissed if I came home to find my ex-boyfriend, who shattered my heart, staying in my childhood bedroom and spending Christmas with my family.
But then the 2nd half of the book, I felt like Marin was being immature. It took so long for the confession/ conflict to be resolved and for a Christmas book it was emotional, sad and angsty.
I loved Cross Country Christmas by Courtney Walsh and love her relatable, easy and engaging writing style. I’ve seen a ton of 5 star reviews for this one, so maybe it was just me 🤷🏼♀️
Trigger warning ⚠️ grief, sudden loss of parents as an adult
But then the 2nd half of the book, I felt like Marin was being immature. It took so long for the confession/ conflict to be resolved and for a Christmas book it was emotional, sad and angsty.
I loved Cross Country Christmas by Courtney Walsh and love her relatable, easy and engaging writing style. I’ve seen a ton of 5 star reviews for this one, so maybe it was just me 🤷🏼♀️
Trigger warning ⚠️ grief, sudden loss of parents as an adult
December 8, 2022
Hell hath no fury on a small town woman with a grudge!
This small town, second chance romance was just what I needed here in this year's holiday season! Such warm and witty banter between two people who still care for each other but struggle to keep the other one from feeling it again.
Swipe for the book description! A high recommendation from me. I couldn't put this one down. You will chuckle to the banter! So cute!
This small town, second chance romance was just what I needed here in this year's holiday season! Such warm and witty banter between two people who still care for each other but struggle to keep the other one from feeling it again.
Swipe for the book description! A high recommendation from me. I couldn't put this one down. You will chuckle to the banter! So cute!
November 22, 2022
I started off really liking this one, and thought the premise was an interesting one.
I’ve seen reviews talking about how Marin, the fmc, was too mean to Max for most of the book but I disagree. Yes, she was mean, but honestly he deserved it 🤷🏻♀️
He breaks up with her after his parents die, “for her own good,” because of his own fears of losing her, and then doesn’t speak to her for EIGHT YEARS. They’ve known each other since birth, but he doesn’t ever reach out to apologize??? It takes her coming back to her parents house in the town they grew up in, for him to apologize. After spending six years worth of Christmas with HER family where she’s never there, you’d think maybe he would try to reach out beforehand??? But no, he never did and it took her being in front of him for him to make the apology. I understand his trauma, I get it I do, but she was severely hurt by him not only as a lover but as a best friend since childhood, and it felt like he never fully got that.
Her parents, ooof. I was so frustrated with them. They discount her heartbreak at every turn. Her mom pushes and pushes her to forgive him, but he literally broke her heart and still hasn’t apologized while her mom is pushing them together. He’s acting like nothing happened between them, trying to be friendly, but I may be just as “immature” as her then, bc i wouldn’t want to be friendly with him either. And I’d be pissed at my family for not telling me he was there either, especially after so many years.
Honestly, i wanted him to grovel a little more. In the end, she’s the one that helps him deal with his trauma, which ok great, but she has to kind of suck up her heartbreak and it’s her growth that allows them to be together.
I also hate the plot point of “woman gets heart broken, turns to work to fill the void, and can’t have any serious relationships bc of the one that got away.” I wish she could’ve had at least one other meaningful relationship in these eight years.
This is not steamy.
No OW/OM drama
I’ve seen reviews talking about how Marin, the fmc, was too mean to Max for most of the book but I disagree. Yes, she was mean, but honestly he deserved it 🤷🏻♀️
He breaks up with her after his parents die, “for her own good,” because of his own fears of losing her, and then doesn’t speak to her for EIGHT YEARS. They’ve known each other since birth, but he doesn’t ever reach out to apologize??? It takes her coming back to her parents house in the town they grew up in, for him to apologize. After spending six years worth of Christmas with HER family where she’s never there, you’d think maybe he would try to reach out beforehand??? But no, he never did and it took her being in front of him for him to make the apology. I understand his trauma, I get it I do, but she was severely hurt by him not only as a lover but as a best friend since childhood, and it felt like he never fully got that.
Her parents, ooof. I was so frustrated with them. They discount her heartbreak at every turn. Her mom pushes and pushes her to forgive him, but he literally broke her heart and still hasn’t apologized while her mom is pushing them together. He’s acting like nothing happened between them, trying to be friendly, but I may be just as “immature” as her then, bc i wouldn’t want to be friendly with him either. And I’d be pissed at my family for not telling me he was there either, especially after so many years.
Honestly, i wanted him to grovel a little more. In the end, she’s the one that helps him deal with his trauma, which ok great, but she has to kind of suck up her heartbreak and it’s her growth that allows them to be together.
I also hate the plot point of “woman gets heart broken, turns to work to fill the void, and can’t have any serious relationships bc of the one that got away.” I wish she could’ve had at least one other meaningful relationship in these eight years.
This is not steamy.
No OW/OM drama
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2022
When I saw a second Christmas Rom-Com from Courtney Walsh, I knew I had to read this! And could it be better than the one last year? Yes! It's actually got me a little bit ready for Christmas, even though some of it was cheesy, and I am not a fan of anything that screams cheesy, this book was and is the exception. Marin and Max were great characters and all the wonderful emotional angst they bring to the story. Just what the doctor ordered!
December 29, 2023
What a cute, sweet second chance romance! I have a soft spot for this trope, but they almost always hurt my feelings. Someone breaks up with the other, there are always painfully hurt feelings, and this one was no exception. Marin has been gone from Pleasant Valley for eight years. She left and never returned after her childhood best-friend-turned-boyfriend broke her heart into a million pieces. But now, thanks to her job as a newscaster, she’s back to document her perfect family Christmas. Gotta give the viewers what they want! Only she didn’t count on Max The Heartbreaker being front and center at her parent’s house, looking an awful lot like he’s comfy and at home. Turns out, he’s been spending Christmas with her parents for five years! Et tu, Brutus??!
Anywho, Max is eager to have Marin forgive him, for more reasons than one. Marin, on the other hand, would rather wipe the dirty floor with Max’s face. But jokes on her, the viewers LOVE Max. They also think she could stand to be nicer to him, so what do they know? Before they know it, Max and Marin are parading around on camera appearing to be quite the lovey dovey couple…which is quite confusing to the both of them. Mutual pining, anyone? Anyways, this was cute and sweet and funny, and I loved Marin and Max!!
Anywho, Max is eager to have Marin forgive him, for more reasons than one. Marin, on the other hand, would rather wipe the dirty floor with Max’s face. But jokes on her, the viewers LOVE Max. They also think she could stand to be nicer to him, so what do they know? Before they know it, Max and Marin are parading around on camera appearing to be quite the lovey dovey couple…which is quite confusing to the both of them. Mutual pining, anyone? Anyways, this was cute and sweet and funny, and I loved Marin and Max!!
Read
November 3, 2022Charming! A little Christmas treat!
December 17, 2022
1. This book was way too long.
2. This book tried to do too much. It's a Christmas romance...just follow the formula!
3. The lack of boundaries between the parents and the main character was so frustrating.
4. Forgiveness doesn't mean going back to a crappy relationship.
5. Not one character in this book was likeable.
.
I still finished it for some reason, but I wish I'd just returned it unread and not wasted so much of my reading time on something I didn't enjoy.
2. This book tried to do too much. It's a Christmas romance...just follow the formula!
3. The lack of boundaries between the parents and the main character was so frustrating.
4. Forgiveness doesn't mean going back to a crappy relationship.
5. Not one character in this book was likeable.
.
I still finished it for some reason, but I wish I'd just returned it unread and not wasted so much of my reading time on something I didn't enjoy.
November 14, 2022
“But Marin?” He says I walk past. I stop. “Yeah?” He gives me a slight wince. “It’s probably not going to be fake for me.“
Marin & Max. M & M. You know what’s a good word? Jovial. You know who is jovial. Courtney Walsh. So celebrate the greatest season of the whole year with Merry Ex-Mas! The jolliest Christmas story with the best things and stuff.
🌲 THINGS & STUFF 🌲
-second chance romance
-childhood friends
-small town
-matchmaking moms
-forced proximity
-dual pov
-peppermint creamer
-Christmas traditions
-fake…flirting
-ice skating
-s’mores
-oh no, you’re sick
-#IsThisAKissingBook: closed door. “He shakes his head, almost to himself, and then reaches for my hand. “I know. And I regret it more than anything.” He looks at my hand before pressing and kiss to my palm.“
Thank you Courtney Walsh for a review copy!
TW: parental death, grief.
🎶Song: Christmas All Over Again by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers 🎶
Marin & Max. M & M. You know what’s a good word? Jovial. You know who is jovial. Courtney Walsh. So celebrate the greatest season of the whole year with Merry Ex-Mas! The jolliest Christmas story with the best things and stuff.
🌲 THINGS & STUFF 🌲
-second chance romance
-childhood friends
-small town
-matchmaking moms
-forced proximity
-dual pov
-peppermint creamer
-Christmas traditions
-fake…flirting
-ice skating
-s’mores
-oh no, you’re sick
-#IsThisAKissingBook: closed door. “He shakes his head, almost to himself, and then reaches for my hand. “I know. And I regret it more than anything.” He looks at my hand before pressing and kiss to my palm.“
Thank you Courtney Walsh for a review copy!
TW: parental death, grief.
🎶Song: Christmas All Over Again by Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers 🎶
December 15, 2023
4.5⭐️
Grab some cocoa, fuzzy socks, and a blanket and settle in for ALL THE COSY CHRISTMAS VIBES!!
This story was so adorable, so hilarious, and so tremendously full of heart!
I adored Marin. She’s strong, feisty, and doesn’t back down. Yeah, she has her issues, but I found her to be an incredibly relatable heroine.
As for Max… he’s sweet and has his leading man moments, but he was definitely in the wrong. Plus, I wished he had been a touch more serious and less nonchalant at times about how he hurt Marin. I did feel sorry for him though and all he went through with his parents. However, he has a big heart that I loved seeing!
Lydia, Marin’s mum, made me laugh… and yet she annoyed me too. However good her intentions were her execution wasn’t quite flawless.
Also, if it is possible to die of second hand embarrassment, consider it done. So many moments! I mean, the reindeer and Mr. & Mrs. Claus?!
Despite there being one big miscommunication after another, there were plenty of sweet and tender moments alongside the raw, real, and authentic ones. What I loved best was the theme of forgiveness. Let’s just say it struck very close to home and right in the feels.
It’s a story that will leave you laughing, swooning, and grateful for second chances!
**My second read through was via audiobook & it was perfection! Plenty of laughs were had, and the narrators nailed the delivery!
Content: mild innuendo; kissing; Marin accidentally gets drunk and it’s played up for laughs; Max and Marin fall asleep together on the couch but nothing happens
Grab some cocoa, fuzzy socks, and a blanket and settle in for ALL THE COSY CHRISTMAS VIBES!!
This story was so adorable, so hilarious, and so tremendously full of heart!
I adored Marin. She’s strong, feisty, and doesn’t back down. Yeah, she has her issues, but I found her to be an incredibly relatable heroine.
As for Max… he’s sweet and has his leading man moments, but he was definitely in the wrong. Plus, I wished he had been a touch more serious and less nonchalant at times about how he hurt Marin. I did feel sorry for him though and all he went through with his parents. However, he has a big heart that I loved seeing!
Lydia, Marin’s mum, made me laugh… and yet she annoyed me too. However good her intentions were her execution wasn’t quite flawless.
Also, if it is possible to die of second hand embarrassment, consider it done. So many moments! I mean, the reindeer and Mr. & Mrs. Claus?!
Despite there being one big miscommunication after another, there were plenty of sweet and tender moments alongside the raw, real, and authentic ones. What I loved best was the theme of forgiveness. Let’s just say it struck very close to home and right in the feels.
It’s a story that will leave you laughing, swooning, and grateful for second chances!
**My second read through was via audiobook & it was perfection! Plenty of laughs were had, and the narrators nailed the delivery!
Content: mild innuendo; kissing; Marin accidentally gets drunk and it’s played up for laughs; Max and Marin fall asleep together on the couch but nothing happens
November 18, 2022
This was such a cute book!! I love reading about other people's family traditions. Iove the small town vibes. I loved Marin and Max. This book was so funny. If your looking for a Christmas romance book you should definitely pick this one up. This is definitely the best Christmas romance. This book has put me in a festive mood. 🎄 Thank you Cara for another great buddy read. I can't wait for our next buddy read. 💖
December 13, 2022
Once again, Courtney Walsh has expertly delivered a story that left me with a satisfied sigh upon finishing.
This book was so fun! It put me through all the emotions, and gave me all the wonderful Christmassy feels. Oh, and I love the setting. Naturally, I'm a softy when there's a novel set in my home state.
Marin and Max were great characters, well developed, and ones I was equal parts cheering on, groaning at, and laughing at. At first I wondered about how it was going to go, because I couldn't stand how mean Marin was to Max, and I couldn't understand why because we had so much of her anger before knowing the history. But once I learned what happened, I was able to understand better where the tension was coming from and was able to like Marin more, and feel compassion for Max. The story then started flowing and I got invested.
I really enjoyed the live social media aspect of it, which was kind of fascinating to me with all the unfamiliar lingo, etc. And all the small town Christmas festivities definitely put me in the Christmas spirit.
As is the case with all the Walsh books I've read, she did an amazing job of balancing humor, weightier topics, romance, and small-town vibes, and she finished it all off with a heartwarming bow.
I didn't care so much for the scene where Marin got drunk, but it was handled discreetly and served a purpose. I did appreciate the way Walsh talked down drink and did not paint it in a good light but showed how it affects a person in so many bad ways.
In summary, a wonderful Christmas read to warm the heart, lighten the mood, and put you in the Christmas spirit.♡
This book was so fun! It put me through all the emotions, and gave me all the wonderful Christmassy feels. Oh, and I love the setting. Naturally, I'm a softy when there's a novel set in my home state.
Marin and Max were great characters, well developed, and ones I was equal parts cheering on, groaning at, and laughing at. At first I wondered about how it was going to go, because I couldn't stand how mean Marin was to Max, and I couldn't understand why because we had so much of her anger before knowing the history. But once I learned what happened, I was able to understand better where the tension was coming from and was able to like Marin more, and feel compassion for Max. The story then started flowing and I got invested.
I really enjoyed the live social media aspect of it, which was kind of fascinating to me with all the unfamiliar lingo, etc. And all the small town Christmas festivities definitely put me in the Christmas spirit.
As is the case with all the Walsh books I've read, she did an amazing job of balancing humor, weightier topics, romance, and small-town vibes, and she finished it all off with a heartwarming bow.
I didn't care so much for the scene where Marin got drunk, but it was handled discreetly and served a purpose. I did appreciate the way Walsh talked down drink and did not paint it in a good light but showed how it affects a person in so many bad ways.
In summary, a wonderful Christmas read to warm the heart, lighten the mood, and put you in the Christmas spirit.♡
November 28, 2022
4.5⭐️This was such a cozy, sweet and beautiful holiday read!!!! I love a town that goes all out for Christmas and all the traditions/ events mentioned throughout the story made the setting come to love. Marin and Max were two characters full of depth and growth and while there was a ton of emotional angst, which I normally don’t love, it made sense with the second chance storyline. Also, as Marin works as a reporter, much of the story centered around her recording her own family traditions, both live and recorded. The scenes where Max joined in and added a bit of unpredictability and a whole life of banter to her segments where my favorite!!
What to expect:
-second chance romance
-fake flirting and fake dating to mask real feelings
-social media posts
-clean romance
-themes of grief, loss and forgiveness
-a lovable, supporting family
-all the holiday antics and traditions
-hallmark movie vibes
What to expect:
-second chance romance
-fake flirting and fake dating to mask real feelings
-social media posts
-clean romance
-themes of grief, loss and forgiveness
-a lovable, supporting family
-all the holiday antics and traditions
-hallmark movie vibes
July 13, 2023
If you're looking for a heartwarming "Hallmark" Christmas story, look no further than Courtney Walsh! Somehow this woman manages to mix light-hearted humor and heavy topics so well. I really enjoyed getting to know Max & Marin's story. Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes, so I basically knew this would be a hit for me. Bonus points for it taking place in a small town and throwing in sweet family Christmas traditions! My only qualm is how long it took for Marin to soften again to Max after having her heartbroken. I get it, I do. I just wished she would have come around sooner in the story. Because she didn't, her character annoyed me at time. But, I loved the theme of forgiveness and second chances in this one. Just another thing I love about Courtney's stories! Highly recommend picking this one up around the holidays!
November 15, 2022
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐💫 (3.5)
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mention of death of parents
Marin McGrath has the chance to land a spot as the new host of Good Morning Denver. But first she has to prove herself by filming a Christmas special in her hometown of Pleasant Valley, IL. It's been 8 years since she's been home, and she's shocked to discover her ex-boyfriend Max Weber has been celebrating the holidays with her parents for the past few years. Now Marin has to spend time with Max while filming, and it's not so easy for her to hide the hurt from their break-up. But slowly she realizes her feelings for him haven't gone away. Is it time for Marin to let go of the past and give Max another chance?
Okay, this book started out as a solid 4 star read for me. Yes, Marin was holding on to a lot of anger towards Max, but I was able to overlook some of it as they engaged in some festive and entertaining scenarios. I love a town that goes all out for Christmas, and Pleasant Valley supplied many holiday activities and customs. When I hit the 60% mark, I thought the tension between Marin and Max would be resolved and the romance would kick into high gear. Unfortunately, there was still some drama and a lot of holding back on Marin's part. I also didn't like how her producer was obsessed with filming Marin and Max and pushing the PDA for ratings. I really did love Max's character and all the kind things he did, but by the end I wasn't convinced that he should go all in with Marin. It felt like he jumped into things too quickly and easily after the way she acted initially. In the end I had very mixed feelings, and that's why I had to bring my rating down a bit.
Steam Level: 🔥 (kissing only)
Trigger Warning: brief mention of death of parents
Marin McGrath has the chance to land a spot as the new host of Good Morning Denver. But first she has to prove herself by filming a Christmas special in her hometown of Pleasant Valley, IL. It's been 8 years since she's been home, and she's shocked to discover her ex-boyfriend Max Weber has been celebrating the holidays with her parents for the past few years. Now Marin has to spend time with Max while filming, and it's not so easy for her to hide the hurt from their break-up. But slowly she realizes her feelings for him haven't gone away. Is it time for Marin to let go of the past and give Max another chance?
Okay, this book started out as a solid 4 star read for me. Yes, Marin was holding on to a lot of anger towards Max, but I was able to overlook some of it as they engaged in some festive and entertaining scenarios. I love a town that goes all out for Christmas, and Pleasant Valley supplied many holiday activities and customs. When I hit the 60% mark, I thought the tension between Marin and Max would be resolved and the romance would kick into high gear. Unfortunately, there was still some drama and a lot of holding back on Marin's part. I also didn't like how her producer was obsessed with filming Marin and Max and pushing the PDA for ratings. I really did love Max's character and all the kind things he did, but by the end I wasn't convinced that he should go all in with Marin. It felt like he jumped into things too quickly and easily after the way she acted initially. In the end I had very mixed feelings, and that's why I had to bring my rating down a bit.
October 18, 2022
A sweet second chance romance with all the Christmas cheer and love❄️🥰
This book was truly so sweet!! It felt like drinking a warm hot coco on a cold day. Marin and Max delivered a second chance romance that was both heartwarming and heart tugging (it tugged on those heart strings).
I REALLY loved how strong and confident Marin was. She didn’t back down and demanded respect and apologies from Max. Tbh Max was the one that truly messed up and Marin didn’t hold back her hurt or feelings which I appreciated. It’s rare we see a FMC hold her own and not give in. Marin made max grovel a bit and explain his side before she decided to give them another chance and I appreciated it. Max was also really sweet and I enjoyed all the side characters a LOT!
Overall, I HIGHLY ENJOYED this Christmas book!!
Now on to the things I didn’t love: Authors look away**
Ok I struggled with a few things with this book. Firstly, it felt at times this book was one big miscommunication after another. A lot could of been solved if the couple just sat down and explained their side of things. But no Max didn’t want to explain his side lmao. I got really frustrated with him for most of the book. And lastly, I didn’t love how they wrapped everything up so quickly, Marin and max needed to sit down and work through everything because if someone told me they didn’t love me even if it was a lie, I’d be so hurt I’d need A LOT of clarification. The two of them had a lot of baggage and even one whole chapter of max truly telling Marin how he lied and actually loves her so much would’ve helped a lot.
This book was truly so sweet!! It felt like drinking a warm hot coco on a cold day. Marin and Max delivered a second chance romance that was both heartwarming and heart tugging (it tugged on those heart strings).
I REALLY loved how strong and confident Marin was. She didn’t back down and demanded respect and apologies from Max. Tbh Max was the one that truly messed up and Marin didn’t hold back her hurt or feelings which I appreciated. It’s rare we see a FMC hold her own and not give in. Marin made max grovel a bit and explain his side before she decided to give them another chance and I appreciated it. Max was also really sweet and I enjoyed all the side characters a LOT!
Overall, I HIGHLY ENJOYED this Christmas book!!
Now on to the things I didn’t love: Authors look away**
Ok I struggled with a few things with this book. Firstly, it felt at times this book was one big miscommunication after another. A lot could of been solved if the couple just sat down and explained their side of things. But no Max didn’t want to explain his side lmao. I got really frustrated with him for most of the book. And lastly, I didn’t love how they wrapped everything up so quickly, Marin and max needed to sit down and work through everything because if someone told me they didn’t love me even if it was a lie, I’d be so hurt I’d need A LOT of clarification. The two of them had a lot of baggage and even one whole chapter of max truly telling Marin how he lied and actually loves her so much would’ve helped a lot.
December 10, 2022
Courtney Walsh can do no wrong! I love her stories, and even though the plot of Merry Ex-Mas did not strike me in any particular way at first, I ended up enjoying it very much. Yes, it’s the fake boyfriend trope, yes, there’s a lot of history and baggage there, but, wow, can Walsh bring out the emotions in her characters. It’s so easy to feel for them and to empathize with them even if I’ve never been in their shoes. I do love a good second-chance romance, and this story definitely delivers that.
I enjoyed the secondary characters quite a bit, too, especially Marin’s mom. At first Max sort of rubbed me the wrong way because he wasn’t entirely honest with Marin, but comes to find out, he’s not really honest with himself either, so it all makes sense with his character and past. The emotions and heart behind this story elevate it from Hallmark cheesy to realistic contemporary romance - that does happen to have a healthy dose of Christmas-y happenings – many of them great traditions, but also a handful that are hilarious and add so much humor to the story.
Funny, charming, and heartfelt, Merry Ex-Mas was an awesome choice to kick off my Christmas reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
I enjoyed the secondary characters quite a bit, too, especially Marin’s mom. At first Max sort of rubbed me the wrong way because he wasn’t entirely honest with Marin, but comes to find out, he’s not really honest with himself either, so it all makes sense with his character and past. The emotions and heart behind this story elevate it from Hallmark cheesy to realistic contemporary romance - that does happen to have a healthy dose of Christmas-y happenings – many of them great traditions, but also a handful that are hilarious and add so much humor to the story.
Funny, charming, and heartfelt, Merry Ex-Mas was an awesome choice to kick off my Christmas reading.
I received a complimentary copy of this novel; a positive review was not required, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
November 10, 2022
Charming!
This was such a cute Christmas second chance romance.
Marin and Max grew up together and eventually started dating. When Max suffers a tragedy, he pushes Marin away. Eight years later, they're thrown back together when Marin returns home to film a Christmas special in her charming small town. I really enjoyed all the fun Christmas aspects of the story, and her parents are a hoot! Especially her mom. I understood Marin's hesitancy with Max, and felt the story had a natural progression for their relationship. They have great chemistry, and you can't help but root for them to figure things out. I really enjoyed this one. This is my first book by Ms. Walsh, and I am excited to go check out her other books now.
Content Rated G - Secular Romance
Clean romance - kissing, no language, no violence
This was such a cute Christmas second chance romance.
Marin and Max grew up together and eventually started dating. When Max suffers a tragedy, he pushes Marin away. Eight years later, they're thrown back together when Marin returns home to film a Christmas special in her charming small town. I really enjoyed all the fun Christmas aspects of the story, and her parents are a hoot! Especially her mom. I understood Marin's hesitancy with Max, and felt the story had a natural progression for their relationship. They have great chemistry, and you can't help but root for them to figure things out. I really enjoyed this one. This is my first book by Ms. Walsh, and I am excited to go check out her other books now.
Content Rated G - Secular Romance
Clean romance - kissing, no language, no violence
did-not-finish
December 26, 2022This book is fine but not for me. I thought I would be able to push through but I just wasn't feeling it and DNFed after chap. 19. I enjoyed A Cross-Country Christmas far more.
I have no issues with the writing style; I do typically enjoy the way Walsh spins her stories. What I really didn’t like was how long the conflict was drawn out, and how Marin’s parents (and almost everyone else in the book??) didn’t really seem to care about her heartbreak over Max. I understand why Marin has stayed away from home for so long, especially considering her parents seem to prefer her ex over their own daughter. I get that she’s a grump but I honestly don’t blame her for it. There’s a lot of unnecessary drama, I didn’t like Steph, and Max is just lame for waiting over eight years to apologize to the woman who is not just his ex but also his childhood best friend.
I have no issues with the writing style; I do typically enjoy the way Walsh spins her stories. What I really didn’t like was how long the conflict was drawn out, and how Marin’s parents (and almost everyone else in the book??) didn’t really seem to care about her heartbreak over Max. I understand why Marin has stayed away from home for so long, especially considering her parents seem to prefer her ex over their own daughter. I get that she’s a grump but I honestly don’t blame her for it. There’s a lot of unnecessary drama, I didn’t like Steph, and Max is just lame for waiting over eight years to apologize to the woman who is not just his ex but also his childhood best friend.
December 22, 2023
Another winner from Courtney Walsh! She seriously writes the most perfect holiday rom-coms.
WHAT I LOVED:
- Tons of holiday spirit
- Realistic characters
- Hallmark movie vibes
- Great balance of humor and serious issues
- Small-town charm
- Family drama
- Dual perspectives
- Strong character growth
5/5 stars! Highly recommend!
WHAT I LOVED:
- Tons of holiday spirit
- Realistic characters
- Hallmark movie vibes
- Great balance of humor and serious issues
- Small-town charm
- Family drama
- Dual perspectives
- Strong character growth
5/5 stars! Highly recommend!
November 21, 2022
Cheese level: 🧀🧀🧀🧀/5
December 3, 2022
I went into this thinking it would be your average hallmarky Christmas novel but I think it had a lot more heart and soul than your average book. I love the depth of the characters and some of the real grief and sadness they face. I definitely want to read more by this author! 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
November 14, 2022
As expected, this author delivered all the banter, angst, emotion and romance that she is known for! Marin has every right to feel so hurt and angry at Max, but as the layers unfold we learn more about the breakup and why things went down the way they did. Max is such a great character, and he really gives Marin a run for her money, especially with a live audience watching! I love how he takes the opportunity to win her back, and his sincerity in not "faking it." Marin's Christmas special in her hometown forces her to realize how much she misses her family and what she is giving up by chasing her career. Marin and Max's reconciliation is rocky but full of fun moments as they finally give each other another chance and save the special connection they have.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided from a tour group, publisher, publicist, or author, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, OR borrowed from Kindle Unlimited, OR purchased. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.
November 23, 2022
Don't you just love when you find an author who is perfect for you? An author who writes the books you want to read? An author who seems to write for you? Courtney Walsh is one of those authors for me. She is a must read author, and her Christmas books are something to be cherished.
I saved this book for my Thanksgiving break because I wanted to be in the best mood to fully enjoy it.
In Merry Ex-Mas, Marin goes home for Christmas for the first time in 8 years. Her plan to film all of her family's favorite traditions with the end goal of securing the permanent job as host of Good Morning Denver. She arrived and gets way more than she bargained for. Her ex boyfriend Max is spending Christmas with her parents, and apparently this has been an annual event.
This is a lovely second chance romance, but because Max broke Marin's heart, it definitely has some enemies to lovers vibes, my favorite trope. It is full of so much Christmas cheer my heart was smiling every second.
Courtney Walsh does an amazing job with character development, I felt connected to Marin, Max and Martin's mom within the first thirty pages. The character development continued and we got to know the extended cast of characters, all of them fantastic.
This book is full of joy, love and Christmas Spirit. A warm hug for my soul.
I saved this book for my Thanksgiving break because I wanted to be in the best mood to fully enjoy it.
In Merry Ex-Mas, Marin goes home for Christmas for the first time in 8 years. Her plan to film all of her family's favorite traditions with the end goal of securing the permanent job as host of Good Morning Denver. She arrived and gets way more than she bargained for. Her ex boyfriend Max is spending Christmas with her parents, and apparently this has been an annual event.
This is a lovely second chance romance, but because Max broke Marin's heart, it definitely has some enemies to lovers vibes, my favorite trope. It is full of so much Christmas cheer my heart was smiling every second.
Courtney Walsh does an amazing job with character development, I felt connected to Marin, Max and Martin's mom within the first thirty pages. The character development continued and we got to know the extended cast of characters, all of them fantastic.
This book is full of joy, love and Christmas Spirit. A warm hug for my soul.
December 8, 2022
Merry Ex-Mas
Genre: Holiday Romance
Trope: Second Chance (and a few others)
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 10.1.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
"The pain you don't deal with always finds a way to come back. It will demand attention."
Another fun book from Courtney Walsh! When Courtney says that she loves writing holiday books, she means it; and it shows throughout her books. Last year, I read and loved A Cross Country Christmas, and this year it's Merry Ex-Mas which is the perfect romance trope mash-up (second chance, fake dating, forced proximity).
Merry Ex-Mas focuses a lot on what it means to forgive someone, even if you aren't sure you're ready to let your feelings go. My only complaint from this book is that Marin is a teeny tiny bit too moody. I understand why she's upset with Max, but there were times that I genuinely felt bad for the guy. But that also might've been as I was privy to his side of the story through his chapters.
So many times, this book had me rolling with laughter from either the character's witty banter or the seemingly endless, awkward situations Marin and Max found themselves in on countless occasions. One that was incredibly hilarious involved a deflating parade float 🦌
📍Small town setting
🗓️ Days leading up to Christmas
✌🏼 Dual POV
🤶🏼 Fun holiday traditions
💖 Romance trope mash-up
🚪 Closed-door romance
I recommend reading Merry Ex-Mas if you enjoyed reading A Cross Country Christmas by Courtney Walsh!
______
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Genre: Holiday Romance
Trope: Second Chance (and a few others)
Format: 📖
Pub Date: 10.1.2022
Star Rating: ☆☆☆☆.5
"The pain you don't deal with always finds a way to come back. It will demand attention."
Another fun book from Courtney Walsh! When Courtney says that she loves writing holiday books, she means it; and it shows throughout her books. Last year, I read and loved A Cross Country Christmas, and this year it's Merry Ex-Mas which is the perfect romance trope mash-up (second chance, fake dating, forced proximity).
Merry Ex-Mas focuses a lot on what it means to forgive someone, even if you aren't sure you're ready to let your feelings go. My only complaint from this book is that Marin is a teeny tiny bit too moody. I understand why she's upset with Max, but there were times that I genuinely felt bad for the guy. But that also might've been as I was privy to his side of the story through his chapters.
So many times, this book had me rolling with laughter from either the character's witty banter or the seemingly endless, awkward situations Marin and Max found themselves in on countless occasions. One that was incredibly hilarious involved a deflating parade float 🦌
📍Small town setting
🗓️ Days leading up to Christmas
✌🏼 Dual POV
🤶🏼 Fun holiday traditions
💖 Romance trope mash-up
🚪 Closed-door romance
I recommend reading Merry Ex-Mas if you enjoyed reading A Cross Country Christmas by Courtney Walsh!
______
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebookend....
Follow my blog: https://thebookenddiner.com/
Follow me on Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/thebookendd...
Follow me on StoryGraph: https://app.thestorygraph.com/profile...
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