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Love & Games #3
Clued in Christmas
Nadia Sikes usually loves the holidays—cozy game nights, snowy mountain girls’ trips, hours decking the halls at Love & Games. But when her two best friends and co-owners find love, all she wants is to tuck away her heart and make it through the season. Quietly handsome bookstore owner and single dad Micah Hamilton is determined to a) build lasting Christmas memories with his little girl and b) avoid Nadia. When his daughter asks to attend the holiday festivities at Love & Games, though, Micah is forced to introduce the woman who broke his heart, to his child she never knew existed. The scene would drive anyone to plot their romantic reunion…and someone does. Between turkey dinners, tree decorating, and mistletoe kisses, mysterious notes begin showing up at the game store. As Nadia strings together clues, motives, and suspects for this twisty whodunit, she and Micah are blindsided by the return of their desire. Is it a mistake to lose themselves in each other again? Or will a Christmas miracle bring them back to where they belong?
318 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2023
About the author
Mia Heintzelman
29 books381 followersThe Wedding Crush releases on June 11th everywhere books are sold!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
Did Not Finish
November 1, 2023DNF at Chapter 10. I got the ARC copy from the author but had no idea this was book #3 in the Love & Games series. I have not read any other books from the author so this was my first. It is unfair to judge or write any review.
I will need to read the first two books. The characters or the story did not really grow in me because I felt something was missing. I will probably read the other two first and come back to it again.
I will need to read the first two books. The characters or the story did not really grow in me because I felt something was missing. I will probably read the other two first and come back to it again.
Read
March 9, 2024I discussed this book with Kelly Reynolds for The Boobies and Noobies Podcast's 12 Days of Boobsmas celebration.
https://boobiesandnoobies.com/the-pod...
Lots of cozy fun in San Diego with a pinch of second chance romance and a dash of boardgames.
https://boobiesandnoobies.com/the-pod...
Lots of cozy fun in San Diego with a pinch of second chance romance and a dash of boardgames.
November 25, 2025
I got this as a free BookBub deal and I wanted to love it so much. She owns a game store; he owns a bookstore. They had a summer fling, but she's afraid of secrets (her ex turned out to be married with a baby on the way!) and he suddenly reveals he has an 11-year-old daughter. The premise is great and there was so much potential, but in many places, I felt like that potential wasn't fully tapped. As a result, there was a bit of muddle in the middle that slowed me way down and unfortunately had me reaching for a second book. The author could have developed the characters better, added some cause-and-effect in the plot to speed up the pace in the middle, and slowed down in other parts that felt too rushed and not earned.
October 6, 2023
While Clued in Christmas is the third book in the Love & Games series, it can be read as a standalone, but now I definitely want to go back and read the others!
I adored Nadia and Micah. From the beginning, their chemistry is palpable, which is no surprise since lingering feeling still remained after the summer fling abruptly largely due to Nadia’s past relationship trauma.
I also really loved Micah’s relationship with his 11 year old daughter, Gillian. It’s evident that she’s his pride and joy, and he’s such a fantastic dad.
The Clue theme and themed festivities throughout the book made me reminisce about so many times spent playing Clue with loved ones during the holidays, which was just *chef’s kiss*
Overall, if you’re looking to get wrapped in a holiday romance that’s perfect for book nerds then definitely pick this one up!
Thank you Tule Publishing for my gifted copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
I adored Nadia and Micah. From the beginning, their chemistry is palpable, which is no surprise since lingering feeling still remained after the summer fling abruptly largely due to Nadia’s past relationship trauma.
I also really loved Micah’s relationship with his 11 year old daughter, Gillian. It’s evident that she’s his pride and joy, and he’s such a fantastic dad.
The Clue theme and themed festivities throughout the book made me reminisce about so many times spent playing Clue with loved ones during the holidays, which was just *chef’s kiss*
Overall, if you’re looking to get wrapped in a holiday romance that’s perfect for book nerds then definitely pick this one up!
Thank you Tule Publishing for my gifted copy. This did not influence my review. All opinions are my own.
October 7, 2023
This is Book 3 in the Love & Games series. I love me a good single dad romance story with second chance romance on top of that. I was completely sold on this before even reading.
This Holiday romance between a game store owner and a bookstore owner was just the palette cleanse I needed. Nadia and Micah’s friends with benefits fling ended abruptly but with lingering feelings still there the tension between the two is palpable. Past traumas, relationship or life, shape the way we move forward with everything. Nadia had to let that hurt go to really allow herself to be loved correctly. I Loved the relationship between Micah and Gillian. This was just such a cute and at times spicy read. Definitely worth checking this one out.
This Holiday romance between a game store owner and a bookstore owner was just the palette cleanse I needed. Nadia and Micah’s friends with benefits fling ended abruptly but with lingering feelings still there the tension between the two is palpable. Past traumas, relationship or life, shape the way we move forward with everything. Nadia had to let that hurt go to really allow herself to be loved correctly. I Loved the relationship between Micah and Gillian. This was just such a cute and at times spicy read. Definitely worth checking this one out.
October 16, 2023
Clued in Christmas is the third installment in the Love and Games series. This author did a great job writing three books about boardgames and incorporate love and happy endings. I think this was my favorite out of the series , it might be because I really love Christmas and I am a very mushy person and this was full of both. I have really enjoyed this series and will miss The Love and games family.
January 1, 2024
This book was adorable and everything I had hoped for. One of my favorite board games is Clue and the last chapter had me loving every single page. If you love the cozy elements of books and games, this book is for you! I also enjoyed how a portion of the book was centered in the town I grew up in, Big Bear!
December 21, 2023
I didn't read the previous books in this series. Maybe if I had, the relationship between Nadia and Micah would have felt more flushed out. Micah was fine if a bit bland. Nadia kinda sucks. She was hot and cold with him throughout the entire book and why? She had one serious relationship where she fell in love. Turns out that guy was married so now because of that Nadia thinks she's destined to be single. Micah was nothing but patient and honest with her the entire time so it didn't make sense she kept comparing him to her ex. Even her friends kept telling her to get her head out of her ass. Of course there's stupid insecurities that come up along the way and Nadia gets in her head. And how does she grovel? With a 3 hour live action Clue game. Made no sense to me.. Also, I don't think I fully understand why everyone in San Diego is so invested in the love lives of these game store owners.
December 14, 2023
Clued in Christmas, the third entry in the Love & Games series, is a board game themed holiday romance that can be read as a standalone. It features the murder mystery game Clue but luckily no one gets bumped off, it’s all just fun and games. What’s real is the chemistry between Nadia, a co-owner of the Love & Games game store, and Micah, the hot single dad who runs a bookstore in the same plaza. Their story is perfect for anyone who enjoys a good second chance romance. My thanks to Goodreads Giveaways and the publisher for an ebook copy to review. 3 ½ stars
October 14, 2023
I was fortunate to receive a copy of Clued in Christmas by Mia Heintzelman from Tule Publishing in exchange for my honest review. This is the final book in the Love & Games series. Each book has featured one of the three partners in the store and their favorite game. This book is Nadia Sikes’ story. We’ve met her partners and their now significant others in the first two books. It is comforting to see them again. Nadia had a bad experience in her past many years ago when she learned her boyfriend was married and she was seen as the home wrecker. It has made her not interested in a committed relationship. She and her partners met Micah Hamilton in the summer and she had a brief fling with him and he became part of her circle. Micah is the owner of a nearby bookstore that they’ve partnered with on some sales initiatives. Since Nadia broke up with him, the others have not hung out with him either.
As the book opens, it is approaching the holiday season and the store will be doing a big event using the board game of Clue. As it is Nadia’s favorite, she is taking the lead. Much to her surprise, she discovers that Micah has an 11 year old daughter Gillian that he never mentioned to her. She sees herself again in a situation where she believes she is the home wrecker. Micah explains to her that he and his ex were divorced and only co-parents. Gillian asks to work at the game store and the partners and Micah agree to it. Suddenly Micah and Gillian are being included in the friend group and their activities. Her friends are playing matchmaker but she is fighting it. Secret admirer notes to Nadia start appearing in the store and she tries to figure out who has left them for her. Throughout the book, the Clue game theme plays a part in the different activities and the way Nadia approaches her interactions with Micah, Gillian and the others. The holiday themed activities that the group participate in seem like lots of fun and add a note of festivity.
Mia Heintzelman has created a fun series that reminds us of the joy we had as children playing the board games as well as adults playing with our children. I enjoyed the clue theme a lot. It was always my favorite game. Micah and Nadia made a cute couple with a lot of chemistry. Their romance provided a lot of enjoyable angst. I always love a second chance romance. Gillian added a lighthearted touch to the story too. I was glad to see all 6 of the main characters from this series in each book. I highly recommend this book and give it 5 stars.
As the book opens, it is approaching the holiday season and the store will be doing a big event using the board game of Clue. As it is Nadia’s favorite, she is taking the lead. Much to her surprise, she discovers that Micah has an 11 year old daughter Gillian that he never mentioned to her. She sees herself again in a situation where she believes she is the home wrecker. Micah explains to her that he and his ex were divorced and only co-parents. Gillian asks to work at the game store and the partners and Micah agree to it. Suddenly Micah and Gillian are being included in the friend group and their activities. Her friends are playing matchmaker but she is fighting it. Secret admirer notes to Nadia start appearing in the store and she tries to figure out who has left them for her. Throughout the book, the Clue game theme plays a part in the different activities and the way Nadia approaches her interactions with Micah, Gillian and the others. The holiday themed activities that the group participate in seem like lots of fun and add a note of festivity.
Mia Heintzelman has created a fun series that reminds us of the joy we had as children playing the board games as well as adults playing with our children. I enjoyed the clue theme a lot. It was always my favorite game. Micah and Nadia made a cute couple with a lot of chemistry. Their romance provided a lot of enjoyable angst. I always love a second chance romance. Gillian added a lighthearted touch to the story too. I was glad to see all 6 of the main characters from this series in each book. I highly recommend this book and give it 5 stars.
October 10, 2023
Clued in Christmas by Mia Heintzelman is the feel good read I've been craving. Who doesn't love a story where the two protagonists are sexy nerds? Nadia loves all things board games and Micah is a booklover. Both love mysteries and thrillers and both own small businesses where they get to pursue their biggest passions.
This was such a joy to read because the characters were interesting and fun, complex, layered, and all about friendship and family. The longing and tension between Micah and Nadia held my complete attention until the very end. I could not wait until they finally got their second chance at love. Micah's love for his daughter, Gilly had me all swoony and he's definitely book boyfriend material. The friendships were loving, honest, supportive and really added a sweetness to the story. Heintzelman's writing was so good you could feel the love between Micah and Nadia simmering through the pages. This one had the perfect balance of storytelling and sizzle that I like in romcoms. The author made me believe in their love. I can't wait to read the other books in this series because I'm hooked on these characters. If you love board game, bookstores, thrillers, whodunits, and mystery mixed into your romance ,hen you are going to love this one.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
🔎 "Rejection doesn't always mean 'messy'. Not everyone uses love as a tool to get what they want."
🔎"Nah, it's a comfort thing. Nothing like the feel of a good book in my hand. The smell of fresh ink and paper with the new ones. Or the sweet musky scent of classics..."
🔎 "I know love exists. The kind of 'choose each other love' just hasn't been in the cards for me."
🔎 "Never believe a word that comes out of man's mouth in the beginning. At least, not before he tells you he loves you. We are 'show' creatures. We show with our actions. Change a tire, take care of you when you're sick, show up to your events when you are important..."
Thanks to @tulepublishing @miaheintzelmanauthor, @hearourvoicestours for the gifted signed & opportunity to be on this book tour. This book was an absolute delight and made my nerdy heart smile so much. Board games and books forever!
This was such a joy to read because the characters were interesting and fun, complex, layered, and all about friendship and family. The longing and tension between Micah and Nadia held my complete attention until the very end. I could not wait until they finally got their second chance at love. Micah's love for his daughter, Gilly had me all swoony and he's definitely book boyfriend material. The friendships were loving, honest, supportive and really added a sweetness to the story. Heintzelman's writing was so good you could feel the love between Micah and Nadia simmering through the pages. This one had the perfect balance of storytelling and sizzle that I like in romcoms. The author made me believe in their love. I can't wait to read the other books in this series because I'm hooked on these characters. If you love board game, bookstores, thrillers, whodunits, and mystery mixed into your romance ,hen you are going to love this one.
Here are a few of my favorite quotes:
🔎 "Rejection doesn't always mean 'messy'. Not everyone uses love as a tool to get what they want."
🔎"Nah, it's a comfort thing. Nothing like the feel of a good book in my hand. The smell of fresh ink and paper with the new ones. Or the sweet musky scent of classics..."
🔎 "I know love exists. The kind of 'choose each other love' just hasn't been in the cards for me."
🔎 "Never believe a word that comes out of man's mouth in the beginning. At least, not before he tells you he loves you. We are 'show' creatures. We show with our actions. Change a tire, take care of you when you're sick, show up to your events when you are important..."
Thanks to @tulepublishing @miaheintzelmanauthor, @hearourvoicestours for the gifted signed & opportunity to be on this book tour. This book was an absolute delight and made my nerdy heart smile so much. Board games and books forever!
October 12, 2023
I received an ARC from the author and am voluntarily posting a review. All opinions are my own.
Clued In Christmas is the third and final book in the Love & Games series by Mia Heintzelman. It can be read as a standalone, although I recommend all three and the character relationships among the central group of family and friends are a consistent highlight of the series.
I’ve loved how each book in the series includes aspects of the board games it’s themed after, and this one is no exception. From actual on-page gameplay, due to the main setting being a game store, to the scattered puns, it remains a lot of fun. And the way it intersects with the holidays was another nice touch, given the presence of board games in many family holiday traditions.
Nadia and Micah have such an interesting dynamic. Their past fling ended on a bitter note, with him admitting to having feelings she couldn’t admit to at that time. Nadia is also still navigating baggage from a past relationship leading her to have closed the door on love, motivating her actions months ago with Micah. Their reunion was sweet, and I enjoyed seeing them come to trust and open up to each other, in spite of past hurts.
I also loved Gilly, Micah’s eleven year old daughter. She and Micah have a great relationship, and I loved the little ways he showed his pride in her and how brilliant she was, even at a young age.
I really enjoyed this book, and this series overall. If you’re looking for a fun, cozy read for the holidays, I’d recommend checking out this one!
Clued In Christmas is the third and final book in the Love & Games series by Mia Heintzelman. It can be read as a standalone, although I recommend all three and the character relationships among the central group of family and friends are a consistent highlight of the series.
I’ve loved how each book in the series includes aspects of the board games it’s themed after, and this one is no exception. From actual on-page gameplay, due to the main setting being a game store, to the scattered puns, it remains a lot of fun. And the way it intersects with the holidays was another nice touch, given the presence of board games in many family holiday traditions.
Nadia and Micah have such an interesting dynamic. Their past fling ended on a bitter note, with him admitting to having feelings she couldn’t admit to at that time. Nadia is also still navigating baggage from a past relationship leading her to have closed the door on love, motivating her actions months ago with Micah. Their reunion was sweet, and I enjoyed seeing them come to trust and open up to each other, in spite of past hurts.
I also loved Gilly, Micah’s eleven year old daughter. She and Micah have a great relationship, and I loved the little ways he showed his pride in her and how brilliant she was, even at a young age.
I really enjoyed this book, and this series overall. If you’re looking for a fun, cozy read for the holidays, I’d recommend checking out this one!
September 28, 2023
“Well, guess what?”…”Everyone else is tired of waiting for you two to realize that you’re supposed to be together…..”
Nadia, Nadia, Nadia…. Early hurts and trauma can impact the way we let people in, how we interact with them and even what direction life will take us. Coming off a whirlwind summer romance with her long time crush, Nadia’s heart is broken. Not because there wasn’t love but because the fear was greater for Nadia. Insert a cute preteen, celebrating the holidays with her dad. Gillian has one thing on her agenda, and that is to prepare her dad’s love life. I’m normally not a fan of holiday books, blame Hallmark, lol But I have loved getting to know these characters in previous books. Nadia has ten years worth of hurt that she is holding onto and I wanted to hug her a times and strangle her at other times. She has friends in her corner to encourage her and call her out on her ish when needed. Micah has a heart he is ready to give to Nadia but he has to protect his daughter. This book was funny and lighthearted. The author does a great job of adding in each female main character’s love for their favorite board game into the story in a way that makes you want to go out a bit games for a family game night.
Nadia, Nadia, Nadia…. Early hurts and trauma can impact the way we let people in, how we interact with them and even what direction life will take us. Coming off a whirlwind summer romance with her long time crush, Nadia’s heart is broken. Not because there wasn’t love but because the fear was greater for Nadia. Insert a cute preteen, celebrating the holidays with her dad. Gillian has one thing on her agenda, and that is to prepare her dad’s love life. I’m normally not a fan of holiday books, blame Hallmark, lol But I have loved getting to know these characters in previous books. Nadia has ten years worth of hurt that she is holding onto and I wanted to hug her a times and strangle her at other times. She has friends in her corner to encourage her and call her out on her ish when needed. Micah has a heart he is ready to give to Nadia but he has to protect his daughter. This book was funny and lighthearted. The author does a great job of adding in each female main character’s love for their favorite board game into the story in a way that makes you want to go out a bit games for a family game night.
Read
October 6, 2023DNF at 42% (Chapter 11) but would love to pick it up again...
When I accepted an ARC of this book I had no indication it was book #3 in a series. I've never read this author so I feel it is unfair to judge her or even this book. My favorite game since I can remember is Clue. That, along with being an avid romance reader, made this book seem like it was made for me. The problem is, as soon as I started reading this story I realized I was missing something. This isn't a love from years ago, it was from earlier in the year. Not only do all of Nadia's friends know Micah, but they also hung out with him all summer while Nadia and Micah were together. Since I was only getting snippets of the two on the page together so far, and a lot of them thinking back to their summer together without much detail, I felt I was being told they belong together without being shown they belong together.
I imagine if I read the previous books I may see Micah and Nadia together more and may be able to see their chemistry more for myself instead of just being told they are meant to be. So far, this book isn't bad. Yet it's not holding my attention because I'm not invested in the characters other than Micah's daughter, who is a delight.
When I accepted an ARC of this book I had no indication it was book #3 in a series. I've never read this author so I feel it is unfair to judge her or even this book. My favorite game since I can remember is Clue. That, along with being an avid romance reader, made this book seem like it was made for me. The problem is, as soon as I started reading this story I realized I was missing something. This isn't a love from years ago, it was from earlier in the year. Not only do all of Nadia's friends know Micah, but they also hung out with him all summer while Nadia and Micah were together. Since I was only getting snippets of the two on the page together so far, and a lot of them thinking back to their summer together without much detail, I felt I was being told they belong together without being shown they belong together.
I imagine if I read the previous books I may see Micah and Nadia together more and may be able to see their chemistry more for myself instead of just being told they are meant to be. So far, this book isn't bad. Yet it's not holding my attention because I'm not invested in the characters other than Micah's daughter, who is a delight.
October 12, 2023
Clued In Christmas was such a unique and entertaining read and is perfect for the upcoming holiday season! This was my first read by Mia Heintzelman and I thoroughly enjoyed it! So much though that since reading this book, which I found out was 3rd in the series, I already purchased the other 2 books, though it isn’t necessary to have read them first.
Nadia and Micah’s story was such a fun one! A book nerd single dad and a board game geek scared to take a second chance? Sign me up! From the moment they are in the same room you can feel the chemistry between them, and it continues to grow throughout. You can see that they are meant to be so early on just by their interactions and I could not wait for it to all work out.
Add in the hilariously supportive friend group (I can’t wait to read Harper and Rox’s stories) and Micah’s sweet daughter, Gillian (aka: Gilly Bean) who gets a few moments in the spotlight herself and this book just sucks you in.
The sprinkles of the Clue game throughout on top of the Christmas theme was such a fun-loving take on a romance book! Will there be more? I think a story for Sadie would be great!
☆☆☆☆
(ARC Provided By Author in exchange for a voluntary honest review.)
Nadia and Micah’s story was such a fun one! A book nerd single dad and a board game geek scared to take a second chance? Sign me up! From the moment they are in the same room you can feel the chemistry between them, and it continues to grow throughout. You can see that they are meant to be so early on just by their interactions and I could not wait for it to all work out.
Add in the hilariously supportive friend group (I can’t wait to read Harper and Rox’s stories) and Micah’s sweet daughter, Gillian (aka: Gilly Bean) who gets a few moments in the spotlight herself and this book just sucks you in.
The sprinkles of the Clue game throughout on top of the Christmas theme was such a fun-loving take on a romance book! Will there be more? I think a story for Sadie would be great!
☆☆☆☆
(ARC Provided By Author in exchange for a voluntary honest review.)
October 12, 2023
Clued In Christmas is the cutest read!! Nadia is a game store owner and Micah is a book store owner and they get a second chance to make things right with each other during the holidays 🥹 I could feel their chemistry instantly!
There was lots of hot chocolate, a snowball fight, cabin getaway, and more that really brought the holiday feels and it was exactly what I wanted! The added touches of the game Clue were so fun as well!
My absolute favorite parts of the story though were every scene between Micah and his 11 year old daughter Gillian. The way he worked so hard to give her as many fun memories as possible just really tugged at my heart strings. One scene between them that I don’t want to spoil has me still cringe laughing because I can’t imagine a kid talking to me about what she was talking to her dad about 😂
The book does feature the topic of alcoholism which was very hard to read - sweet little Gillian broke my heart in one scene. While it was depressing for me because I could relate, I really appreciated how it was handled with care.
Clued In Christmas is the 3rd book in the Love & Games series and they can be read as standalones. I fell in love with all of the characters and will definitely be going back and reading the first two!!
There was lots of hot chocolate, a snowball fight, cabin getaway, and more that really brought the holiday feels and it was exactly what I wanted! The added touches of the game Clue were so fun as well!
My absolute favorite parts of the story though were every scene between Micah and his 11 year old daughter Gillian. The way he worked so hard to give her as many fun memories as possible just really tugged at my heart strings. One scene between them that I don’t want to spoil has me still cringe laughing because I can’t imagine a kid talking to me about what she was talking to her dad about 😂
The book does feature the topic of alcoholism which was very hard to read - sweet little Gillian broke my heart in one scene. While it was depressing for me because I could relate, I really appreciated how it was handled with care.
Clued In Christmas is the 3rd book in the Love & Games series and they can be read as standalones. I fell in love with all of the characters and will definitely be going back and reading the first two!!
October 12, 2023
This is a happy/sad review because Clued in Christmas gave me happy book feelings (thanks to the author for the ARC!), but I'm bummed this adorable series is over!
Clued in Christmas wraps up with Nadia and Micah, but I also enjoyed getting healthy servings of the previous couples, too. As usual Mia Heintzelman's voice is light, airy, and infectious, and also laugh-out-loud funny. I particularly loved the clever chapter headings, which were just one of many ways that the Clue theme wound through the plot.
Speaking of the plot, once again the author manages to balance playfulness and sincerity, tackling the main characters' pretty heavy obstacles to their relationship (especially Nadia's, funnily enough, even though on the surface it looks like Micah should be the hesitant one) with care and compassion. This is also a beautiful portrait of found family, both in terms of Micah and his co-parenting and the sisterhood/brotherhood (siblinghood?) linking the three couples in the series.
Clued in Christmas covers Thanksgiving (and Friendsgiving!) as well as Christmas so it's a great autumn read all around. I can't wait to see where Mia Heintzelman takes us next!
Clued in Christmas wraps up with Nadia and Micah, but I also enjoyed getting healthy servings of the previous couples, too. As usual Mia Heintzelman's voice is light, airy, and infectious, and also laugh-out-loud funny. I particularly loved the clever chapter headings, which were just one of many ways that the Clue theme wound through the plot.
Speaking of the plot, once again the author manages to balance playfulness and sincerity, tackling the main characters' pretty heavy obstacles to their relationship (especially Nadia's, funnily enough, even though on the surface it looks like Micah should be the hesitant one) with care and compassion. This is also a beautiful portrait of found family, both in terms of Micah and his co-parenting and the sisterhood/brotherhood (siblinghood?) linking the three couples in the series.
Clued in Christmas covers Thanksgiving (and Friendsgiving!) as well as Christmas so it's a great autumn read all around. I can't wait to see where Mia Heintzelman takes us next!
October 12, 2023
Clued in Christmas
This is the 3rd book in the Love and Games Series
If you love the game of Clue you will definitely love the story of Nadia and Micah. Nadia doesn’t do long-term relationships she likes to have fun and then she is ready to move on until Micah. Micah and Nadia have a summer fling and he lets her know he wants to try a relationship but she does not. Nadia soon realizes that she has made a mistake but she is too afraid to risk her heart because the last time she did it was broken.
Micah 11 year old daughter has come to stay with him for the holidays. She ends up helping out at the store giving Micah and Nadia a lot of opportunities to see each other. Letters start arriving at the store for Nadia and the mystery of finding her secret admirer begins. Does Nadia want the letters to be from Micah? Is she ready to move on from her past heartbreak and truly give love a chance? How far will the gang go to help Nadia and Micah get out of their own way?
Mia once again has created such a fun read and it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Who doesn’t love Christmas trees, hot chocolate and all things HEA?
This is the 3rd book in the Love and Games Series
If you love the game of Clue you will definitely love the story of Nadia and Micah. Nadia doesn’t do long-term relationships she likes to have fun and then she is ready to move on until Micah. Micah and Nadia have a summer fling and he lets her know he wants to try a relationship but she does not. Nadia soon realizes that she has made a mistake but she is too afraid to risk her heart because the last time she did it was broken.
Micah 11 year old daughter has come to stay with him for the holidays. She ends up helping out at the store giving Micah and Nadia a lot of opportunities to see each other. Letters start arriving at the store for Nadia and the mystery of finding her secret admirer begins. Does Nadia want the letters to be from Micah? Is she ready to move on from her past heartbreak and truly give love a chance? How far will the gang go to help Nadia and Micah get out of their own way?
Mia once again has created such a fun read and it’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit. Who doesn’t love Christmas trees, hot chocolate and all things HEA?
September 3, 2023
"Love even when the plan changes without warning."
A Christmas themed book, with board games and books, and the FMC has my name? It screamed "must read" and I am thrilled that I was given the opportunity to read this book. Thank you, Mia Heintzelman.
This is one of the cutest love stories I have ever read. As the quote (and theme of the book) indicates, love (and life) does not always go to plan. Thankfully, some are given second chances - like Nadia and Micah.
The protagonists are both such beautiful nerds. I didn't put the book down until I knew how their story ends. The supporting characters are equally amazing and added to the vast range of emotions this book made me feel. From teary-eyed to gushing with joy.
This is not your average Christmas love story. This book is fun, funny, sweet, with twists, and some mystery. I won't discuss the plot at all to avoid any spoilers. Read the blurb then read the book. :)
If you love books, board games, and sweet love stories, this is the book for you.
A Christmas themed book, with board games and books, and the FMC has my name? It screamed "must read" and I am thrilled that I was given the opportunity to read this book. Thank you, Mia Heintzelman.
This is one of the cutest love stories I have ever read. As the quote (and theme of the book) indicates, love (and life) does not always go to plan. Thankfully, some are given second chances - like Nadia and Micah.
The protagonists are both such beautiful nerds. I didn't put the book down until I knew how their story ends. The supporting characters are equally amazing and added to the vast range of emotions this book made me feel. From teary-eyed to gushing with joy.
This is not your average Christmas love story. This book is fun, funny, sweet, with twists, and some mystery. I won't discuss the plot at all to avoid any spoilers. Read the blurb then read the book. :)
If you love books, board games, and sweet love stories, this is the book for you.
September 23, 2023
I have given this lovely book 4 stars.
The cover: It's beautiful is what made so interested in the book. To find out there is a series of game related love stories by this author.
The story: If you are a lover of board games this is the book for you. The story is based on exactly what the title says 'Clue'. It follows two main characters who have a second chance of love but have to deal with their own insecurities first.
There was also a side story with in book that deals blended families which was explained well and was lovely to see the result.
I loved that the story followed a father being a great parent to his daughter but also showed even though no longer with the ex partner a blended family can exist.
I liked the authors writing and loved the cheeky rom-com and second chance romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The cover: It's beautiful is what made so interested in the book. To find out there is a series of game related love stories by this author.
The story: If you are a lover of board games this is the book for you. The story is based on exactly what the title says 'Clue'. It follows two main characters who have a second chance of love but have to deal with their own insecurities first.
There was also a side story with in book that deals blended families which was explained well and was lovely to see the result.
I loved that the story followed a father being a great parent to his daughter but also showed even though no longer with the ex partner a blended family can exist.
I liked the authors writing and loved the cheeky rom-com and second chance romance.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 12, 2023
I would firstly just like to say a big thank you to the author who very kindly forwarded me an arc copy of her book, for my kindle, in return for my honest review.
Clued In Christmas is book number three from the ‘Love And Games’ series and this book is a wonderful addition too!! Even though this book is part of a series it can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
I really loved the two main characters, Nadia and Micah and right from the very start they have wonderful chemistry together. I really enjoyed getting to know them both and becoming entwined in their wonderful story too!
I do love a single dad trope and also a second chance romance and i felt that the author wrote them both really well and pulled me in right from the very first chapter.
This was such an easy book to read and had me turning the pages quicker and quicker so that i could find out how it was all going to happen.
It was such a wonderful, nerdy, festive romance of a book and i absolutely thoroughly enjoyed it…….
Clued In Christmas is book number three from the ‘Love And Games’ series and this book is a wonderful addition too!! Even though this book is part of a series it can very easily be read as a stand alone with no problems at all.
I really loved the two main characters, Nadia and Micah and right from the very start they have wonderful chemistry together. I really enjoyed getting to know them both and becoming entwined in their wonderful story too!
I do love a single dad trope and also a second chance romance and i felt that the author wrote them both really well and pulled me in right from the very first chapter.
This was such an easy book to read and had me turning the pages quicker and quicker so that i could find out how it was all going to happen.
It was such a wonderful, nerdy, festive romance of a book and i absolutely thoroughly enjoyed it…….
December 13, 2025
The first half of this holiday second-chance romance hooked me. I really liked Micah and his daughter, and Nadia seemed ready to grow and commit.
The clue-themed chapter titles were cute, but this wasn’t the cozy mystery I was expecting from the title/blurb. It was mainly a holiday romance and unfortunately, Nadia lost steam and went hot/cold multiple times while Micah was steady and patient. It was hard to root for Nadia
when all of her friends were also rolling their eyes and telling her to get over the jerk who hurt her with lies a decade ago and just go for it with Micah.
This is book three in series and can be read as a standalone, but I’m guessing the events of the first two books make it believable that there was a social media frenzy about the love lives of the three women owners of the game store. This piece of the story was really strange for me not having read the first two books.
The clue-themed chapter titles were cute, but this wasn’t the cozy mystery I was expecting from the title/blurb. It was mainly a holiday romance and unfortunately, Nadia lost steam and went hot/cold multiple times while Micah was steady and patient. It was hard to root for Nadia
when all of her friends were also rolling their eyes and telling her to get over the jerk who hurt her with lies a decade ago and just go for it with Micah.
This is book three in series and can be read as a standalone, but I’m guessing the events of the first two books make it believable that there was a social media frenzy about the love lives of the three women owners of the game store. This piece of the story was really strange for me not having read the first two books.
September 11, 2023
I received an ARC of the book...
Overall, I give this book a 4.5. I'm a bit nit-picky over things. But shy of those things, this book will easily be a comfort read. #Nikah
I've been lucky enough to receive an ARC of all three books in the series. Though each one centers around a board game store and three friends (two of which are sisters) and their love lives, they're all different.
You've got Monopolove- rivals to lovers, Trivialized Pursuit- the best friend's brother/friends to lovers, and finally Clued in Christmas- a swoon worthy second chance romance with a single dad with a quirky kid vibes. The amount of times I sighed wistfully in this book is just unmatched to the other two. I really wish the series could somehow continue. Mia, want to write a Happily Ever After Epilogue surprise novella? :)
Overall, I give this book a 4.5. I'm a bit nit-picky over things. But shy of those things, this book will easily be a comfort read. #Nikah
I've been lucky enough to receive an ARC of all three books in the series. Though each one centers around a board game store and three friends (two of which are sisters) and their love lives, they're all different.
You've got Monopolove- rivals to lovers, Trivialized Pursuit- the best friend's brother/friends to lovers, and finally Clued in Christmas- a swoon worthy second chance romance with a single dad with a quirky kid vibes. The amount of times I sighed wistfully in this book is just unmatched to the other two. I really wish the series could somehow continue. Mia, want to write a Happily Ever After Epilogue surprise novella? :)
October 13, 2023
Clued In Christmas by Mia Heintzelman is the third book in her original Love & Games Series. While contemporary romance is not new, falling in love while playing a board game certainly is. It is enough to make us pull out the games we remember playing when younger. This time it is a second chance at romance and a sweet little girl at the heart of it.
Micah Hamilton and Nadia are both wary of any kind of relationship except everyone else know that they are prefect together. It is a fun story watching them celebrate Christmas, family and time together as they sort their relationship out. Clued In Christmas is sure to bring a smile to your face while also have you planning family board game night this holiday season.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Micah Hamilton and Nadia are both wary of any kind of relationship except everyone else know that they are prefect together. It is a fun story watching them celebrate Christmas, family and time together as they sort their relationship out. Clued In Christmas is sure to bring a smile to your face while also have you planning family board game night this holiday season.
An ARC of the book was given to me by Tule Publishing which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
January 21, 2024
I was drawn to the premise of a romance between the owners if a game store and book store.
I found the book generally amusing, and a fun concept, but the chapter headings stretched the Clue theme far beyond the limits of credulity. The author just seemed to be trying too hard.
The characters are interesting, and the relationships among the 3 women owners of the game store, and the bookstore owner and his daughter, believable enough. I especially liked the preteen, Gillian, and her relationship with the single dad.
I did get extremely tired of all the characters biting their lower lips. It really got tiresome! Apparently it's supposed to be sexy, though I admit I've never actually noticed anyone doing it.
There were also some grammatical errors, but I've forgotten the details by now. Probably few would notice or care, but it affects my enjoyment of a book.
I found the book generally amusing, and a fun concept, but the chapter headings stretched the Clue theme far beyond the limits of credulity. The author just seemed to be trying too hard.
The characters are interesting, and the relationships among the 3 women owners of the game store, and the bookstore owner and his daughter, believable enough. I especially liked the preteen, Gillian, and her relationship with the single dad.
I did get extremely tired of all the characters biting their lower lips. It really got tiresome! Apparently it's supposed to be sexy, though I admit I've never actually noticed anyone doing it.
There were also some grammatical errors, but I've forgotten the details by now. Probably few would notice or care, but it affects my enjoyment of a book.
October 4, 2023
Hey there, folks! Just finished reading "Clued In Christmas," and it's a heartwarming holiday treat! Picture this: a single dad getting a second shot at love during the most magical time of the year. Doesn't that just make your heart flutter?
This tale is not just about festive cheer; it's also brimming with genuine emotions that make you root for the characters even more. I've got a soft spot for stories where the guy falls first, and Micah here is as real as they come - open, honest, and wears his heart on his sleeve. Nadia, on the other hand, has her own battles to fight before she can fully embrace love.
And guess what? This is book three in a series, but I dove right in without reading the first two and had no trouble catching up.
Big shoutout to Hear Our Voices Tours and Mia Heintzelman for sending me an advance reader copy!
This tale is not just about festive cheer; it's also brimming with genuine emotions that make you root for the characters even more. I've got a soft spot for stories where the guy falls first, and Micah here is as real as they come - open, honest, and wears his heart on his sleeve. Nadia, on the other hand, has her own battles to fight before she can fully embrace love.
And guess what? This is book three in a series, but I dove right in without reading the first two and had no trouble catching up.
Big shoutout to Hear Our Voices Tours and Mia Heintzelman for sending me an advance reader copy!
December 27, 2023
Clued in Christmas by Mia Heintzelman
Really fun mysterious Christmas romantic story.
Nadia and her friends own and run the Love and Games business. It is close by to Booked UP which Micah runs and owns.
Fun holiday season read and with twists. Love the excitement the game of Clue plays in this story and how they make it work.
Nadia and Micah had dated during the summer, just fun times then break up and go their separate ways. She still has a thing for him and he to her.
Problem is there are things he had not told her and it hits her really hard when she finds out. He wasn't trying to hide anything. The group of friends perform an interention and things happen. So fun at the ski lodge, the activities, etc.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
Really fun mysterious Christmas romantic story.
Nadia and her friends own and run the Love and Games business. It is close by to Booked UP which Micah runs and owns.
Fun holiday season read and with twists. Love the excitement the game of Clue plays in this story and how they make it work.
Nadia and Micah had dated during the summer, just fun times then break up and go their separate ways. She still has a thing for him and he to her.
Problem is there are things he had not told her and it hits her really hard when she finds out. He wasn't trying to hide anything. The group of friends perform an interention and things happen. So fun at the ski lodge, the activities, etc.
Can't wait to read more from this author.
September 24, 2023
I think the book is entertaining, but it was not for me. If you like the miscommunication and second chance romance tropes, you might enjoy this book a lot, but those happen to be my least favorite tropes.
When I read the blurb, i thought this would be more like a cozy mystery mixed with a little romance story, but it really is just a christmas romance.
The charachers are well built and they feel pretty real to me, and I liked Nadia´s backstory, it explained very well why she did what she did and why we have multiple miscommunications throughout the book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When I read the blurb, i thought this would be more like a cozy mystery mixed with a little romance story, but it really is just a christmas romance.
The charachers are well built and they feel pretty real to me, and I liked Nadia´s backstory, it explained very well why she did what she did and why we have multiple miscommunications throughout the book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 25, 2023
This is the third book in the series and I must say, this is my favorite of them. This is definitely a cozy read for the holidays; two people who clearly love one another but Nadia has allowed her past to dictate how she manages romantic relationships which, I related to. It’s hard to not be scared after being played so Nadia hesitance with being in a real relationship with Micha made sense to me, and although I am not a fan of miscommunication, it worked in bring them closer to love and it was tackled fast so I wasn’t frustrated with it. I love me a single dad trope so that was the icing on the christmas cake for me and I ate every crumb. 4.5/5
October 8, 2023
If you love the game Clue, then this book is for you. The heroine in this book is part owner of a game store and their Christmas promotion is a game based off of Clue. She was involved with the nearby bookstore owner and is surprised when his daughter shows up looking for a part-time job and then she sees their names on the game registration. The former lovers start getting thrown together more and might be thinking about getting back together, but a secret note just might throw everything off. Secrets must be solved, and trust will have to be given in order for these two to find a happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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