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My Ex-mas Emergency
Very few in Aspen Lake expected that I, Calista Monroe, their most notorious wild child, would ever amount to anything besides being a model prisoner. So imagine their surprise when I returned as the hospital’s newest ER doctor. Believe me, no one is more surprised than I am. I had vowed to never return, even if it was the last safe haven during the zombie apocalypse. But when my niece, Quinn, begged me to come home, I couldn’t say no. My plan is to stay out of trouble this time, and above all, avoid Quinn’s uncle Tristan—the man I love to hate and the reason I left Aspen Lake.
But trouble starts to brew when my niece gets it into her pretty head that her uncle and I need to reconcile. The devious little thing insists we deck the halls together all season long. And since I’ll do anything to make Quinn happy, I agree, believing I’m completely immune to Tristan’s charm. Except the joke’s on me. Who knew that Tristan’s biggest regret was letting me go? And the infuriating man seems willing to do everything possible to win me back. Well, it’s going to take a Christmas miracle for me to give him a second chance. Unfortunately for my plan, our chemistry could set a blizzard on fire. Now I have a major ex emergency on my hands.
Do I give my niece her Christmas wish, or do I let the love between Tristan and me flatline once and for all?
USA Today best-selling author Jennifer Peel presents a sweet and swoony holiday rom-com that will leave you feeling oh so merry and bright.
But trouble starts to brew when my niece gets it into her pretty head that her uncle and I need to reconcile. The devious little thing insists we deck the halls together all season long. And since I’ll do anything to make Quinn happy, I agree, believing I’m completely immune to Tristan’s charm. Except the joke’s on me. Who knew that Tristan’s biggest regret was letting me go? And the infuriating man seems willing to do everything possible to win me back. Well, it’s going to take a Christmas miracle for me to give him a second chance. Unfortunately for my plan, our chemistry could set a blizzard on fire. Now I have a major ex emergency on my hands.
Do I give my niece her Christmas wish, or do I let the love between Tristan and me flatline once and for all?
USA Today best-selling author Jennifer Peel presents a sweet and swoony holiday rom-com that will leave you feeling oh so merry and bright.
271 pages, Paperback
Published August 21, 2023
429 people are currently reading
1966 people want to read
About the author
Jennifer Peel
63 books1,382 followersJennifer Peel is the mother of three amazing kiddos. Wife to her one and only for the past twenty-two years. Lover of late night talks, beach vacations, the mountains, pink bubble gum ice cream, tours of model homes, and southern living. She can frequently be found with her laptop on, fingers typing away, indulging in chocolate milk, and writing out the stories that are constantly swirling through her head.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 415 reviews
December 16, 2023
4⭐
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Aspen Lake
Publication date ~ book ~ October 6, 2023, audio ~ December 5, 2023
Est page Count ~ 271 (36 chapters +e & bonus content)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 27 minutes
Narrator ~ Wayne Mitchell, Kim Churchill
POV ~ single 1st & 3rd
Featuring ~ enemies to lovers, second chance, slow burn, no steamage
Calista & Tristan are brought together again by the grief their 15 year old niece, Quinn, is feeling over the loss of her father, who is Calista's brother in law and Tristan's brother. He was a known cheater, so not many people were sad about his death.
Only a handful of people are thrilled that Calista is back in town. She's from the wrong side of the lake, but she proved them wrong by becoming a doctor. She was really sweet and strong and I liked her friendship with Jules.
Quinn was great with her sneaky ways of trying to get them together. Her mom needed to get her act together sooner though. Tristan's parents were awful.
If you like a one sided enemies to lovers second chance romance I bet you'd enjoy this one. Calista had every right to be mad at Tristan for why he broke up with her. What a waste of 13 years apart and I'm so glad she didn't forgive him right away, which means there was no 3rd act breakup. Overall, a cute Christmasy read.
Calista's POV was in the 1st and Tristan in the 3rd. I think I would've preferred 1st for both, but was it this way because it's one sided enemies? Also, I like both of their names.
Narration notes:
Kim did a great job. I wish Wayne would've stuck to his regular voice. His lady voices were absolutely AWFUL. Seriously the worst. I didn't even like him doing his father's voice either.
*Thanks to the author, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
Genre ~ contemporary romance
Setting ~ Aspen Lake
Publication date ~ book ~ October 6, 2023, audio ~ December 5, 2023
Est page Count ~ 271 (36 chapters +e & bonus content)
Audio length ~ 9 hours 27 minutes
Narrator ~ Wayne Mitchell, Kim Churchill
POV ~ single 1st & 3rd
Featuring ~ enemies to lovers, second chance, slow burn, no steamage
Calista & Tristan are brought together again by the grief their 15 year old niece, Quinn, is feeling over the loss of her father, who is Calista's brother in law and Tristan's brother. He was a known cheater, so not many people were sad about his death.
Only a handful of people are thrilled that Calista is back in town. She's from the wrong side of the lake, but she proved them wrong by becoming a doctor. She was really sweet and strong and I liked her friendship with Jules.
Quinn was great with her sneaky ways of trying to get them together. Her mom needed to get her act together sooner though. Tristan's parents were awful.
If you like a one sided enemies to lovers second chance romance I bet you'd enjoy this one. Calista had every right to be mad at Tristan for why he broke up with her. What a waste of 13 years apart and I'm so glad she didn't forgive him right away, which means there was no 3rd act breakup. Overall, a cute Christmasy read.
Calista's POV was in the 1st and Tristan in the 3rd. I think I would've preferred 1st for both, but was it this way because it's one sided enemies? Also, I like both of their names.
Narration notes:
Kim did a great job. I wish Wayne would've stuck to his regular voice. His lady voices were absolutely AWFUL. Seriously the worst. I didn't even like him doing his father's voice either.
*Thanks to the author, Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the ARC. I am voluntarily leaving my honest review*
Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ Twitter
January 15, 2024
Contemporary Romance
Publication date : October 6, 2023
Narrated by: Wayne Mitchell, Kim Churchill
Length: 9 hrs and 27 mins
I could not help but feel like I was thrown into the middle of the story with no knowing who the characters are and what is their story. Too much time was spent on inner thoughts of the characters. Something had gone wrong between Calista and Tristan but I was just told, not shown and experiencing it myself.
The story was told from Calista's and Tristan's POV, but for me it did nothing to read Tristan's POV. I found the narrator for Tristan very annoying, especially when he attempted to do female voices. It was terrible. Read normally, don't try to imitate female voices when you have no ability for it.
Calista was an ER doctor but she often sounded immature and childish. Also I didn't get why she would want to get back together with someone who was willing to give her up because his parents pressured him to do so. He married another woman! I don't know how you can trust someone so weak and pathetic, who never stood up for his love. Or was he even in love or just lusted after Calista?
Overall okay story but with those constantly swithing pov's the story often felt disjointed, lacked good flow, and I didn't much care for any of the characters.
Publication date : October 6, 2023
Narrated by: Wayne Mitchell, Kim Churchill
Length: 9 hrs and 27 mins
I could not help but feel like I was thrown into the middle of the story with no knowing who the characters are and what is their story. Too much time was spent on inner thoughts of the characters. Something had gone wrong between Calista and Tristan but I was just told, not shown and experiencing it myself.
The story was told from Calista's and Tristan's POV, but for me it did nothing to read Tristan's POV. I found the narrator for Tristan very annoying, especially when he attempted to do female voices. It was terrible. Read normally, don't try to imitate female voices when you have no ability for it.
Calista was an ER doctor but she often sounded immature and childish. Also I didn't get why she would want to get back together with someone who was willing to give her up because his parents pressured him to do so. He married another woman! I don't know how you can trust someone so weak and pathetic, who never stood up for his love. Or was he even in love or just lusted after Calista?
Overall okay story but with those constantly swithing pov's the story often felt disjointed, lacked good flow, and I didn't much care for any of the characters.
December 6, 2023
This was a fun sweet Christmas novel that I almost put down. The first 30% was driving me crazy and the MFC was driving me crazy. But just when I thought I couldn’t listen to another minute she captured me with her sincerity and determination and I ended up liking this very much. The narrators were Wayne Mitchell and Kim Churchill and they were perfect. I especially liked Wayne, he has a dreamy voice.
Things I loved:
❄️Singing O Tannenbaum.
❄️ “Christmas is just another word for love”.
❄️ The Kisses
❄️ The proposal
❄️ And the “Walking Away The Pounds” video
❄️ The HEA
Thanks Dreamscape Media via NetGalley.
Things I loved:
❄️Singing O Tannenbaum.
❄️ “Christmas is just another word for love”.
❄️ The Kisses
❄️ The proposal
❄️ And the “Walking Away The Pounds” video
❄️ The HEA
Thanks Dreamscape Media via NetGalley.
December 15, 2023
This was one of the best holiday reads I’ve read in quite awhile! If you love a good holiday romance, you do not want to miss this one!
When Tristan broke up with Calista it almost crushed her. She vowed then that she’d never have anything to do with him again.
Thirteen years ago, Tristan made the worst mistake of his life. Now that Calista is back in Aspen Lake, he’s out to prove how sorry he is, how much he’s changed, and that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get back the woman he never stopped loving.
I love the second chance trope, and Jennifer knocked it out of the park with this one. The way Tristan broke up with Calista was a total jerk move, but you can feel how deeply sorry he was.
I loved how Calista didn’t immediately forgive him, but made him really work for it. The amount of groveling was just right and satisfied my sense of justice on her behalf. And when she starts to soften towards him, their chemistry together becomes even more intense and fiery. I absolutely adored hard he pursued her!
Jennifer has written so many female heroines that I love, but Calista is my new favorite. She’s strong, doesn’t back down from anyone, speaks her mind. She also has a huge heart and is a ‘crusader’ for the underdog. She is a fabulous character!
What I loved:
🎄 Second chance romance
🎄 Dual POV
🎄 FMC is an ER doctor
🎄 Bantering perfection
🎄 Emergency Room visits
🎄 Christmas Carol references
🎄 Quinn - scheming niece
🎄 Old fashioned Christmas
🎄 Cameos from previous books
🎄 Scrooges can change
🎄 HEA
It’s definitely a story I’ll be reading over and over, and not just at Christmas time.
Many thanks to the author for a gifted copy!
When Tristan broke up with Calista it almost crushed her. She vowed then that she’d never have anything to do with him again.
Thirteen years ago, Tristan made the worst mistake of his life. Now that Calista is back in Aspen Lake, he’s out to prove how sorry he is, how much he’s changed, and that he’s willing to do whatever it takes to get back the woman he never stopped loving.
I love the second chance trope, and Jennifer knocked it out of the park with this one. The way Tristan broke up with Calista was a total jerk move, but you can feel how deeply sorry he was.
I loved how Calista didn’t immediately forgive him, but made him really work for it. The amount of groveling was just right and satisfied my sense of justice on her behalf. And when she starts to soften towards him, their chemistry together becomes even more intense and fiery. I absolutely adored hard he pursued her!
Jennifer has written so many female heroines that I love, but Calista is my new favorite. She’s strong, doesn’t back down from anyone, speaks her mind. She also has a huge heart and is a ‘crusader’ for the underdog. She is a fabulous character!
What I loved:
🎄 Second chance romance
🎄 Dual POV
🎄 FMC is an ER doctor
🎄 Bantering perfection
🎄 Emergency Room visits
🎄 Christmas Carol references
🎄 Quinn - scheming niece
🎄 Old fashioned Christmas
🎄 Cameos from previous books
🎄 Scrooges can change
🎄 HEA
It’s definitely a story I’ll be reading over and over, and not just at Christmas time.
Many thanks to the author for a gifted copy!
November 15, 2023
So many Christmas romance books are just too cheesy, but I thought this one was pretty great. Calista does her best to push off the romance but Tristan does a better job at winning her over. I liked that she was willing to stand her ground and that she was such a badass of a character. She fought for herself and made sure if he was coming back into her life he’d fight for her too.
🌀Synopsis
Calista is returning home to help her sister and niece after her brother in law died. Things are chaotic and this is the last place she imagined herself. Her niece needs her more than ever though and that makes her willing to do anything to help her- including moving home to face her ex.
Tristan knows he made a bad choice when he let Calista get away. He chose his family and their opinions over her and regrets that. He’s still in love with her though and thankfully they share a niece who is determined to see them back together. With a little scheming from them both, he’s able to spend time with her again. Now he just has to convince her that she can truly have it all, including the career she worked so hard for.
🌀Synopsis
Calista is returning home to help her sister and niece after her brother in law died. Things are chaotic and this is the last place she imagined herself. Her niece needs her more than ever though and that makes her willing to do anything to help her- including moving home to face her ex.
Tristan knows he made a bad choice when he let Calista get away. He chose his family and their opinions over her and regrets that. He’s still in love with her though and thankfully they share a niece who is determined to see them back together. With a little scheming from them both, he’s able to spend time with her again. Now he just has to convince her that she can truly have it all, including the career she worked so hard for.
October 9, 2023
This was a fun read to pass the time on a road trip today. Enjoyable story, likable characters, fun Christmas setting.
Content Rated PG
Clean romance, kissing. Mild language. No violence.
Content Rated PG
Clean romance, kissing. Mild language. No violence.
December 12, 2023
Very character driven story. Predictable. Average writing.
October 6, 2023
Oh my heart! Y'all! I can't even with all the swooniness! I. Can't. Even! Where should I begin? I do have to warn you, this is going to be one of those gushing reviews. But you guys, I can't help it! This book had absolutely everything I want in the books I read! 😍
All the feels? ✓ Swoony? ✓ Lots of kisses? ✓ Giggled/laughed out loud? ✓ Let out all the little dreamy sighs? ✓ Big gestures? ✓ Old and new favorite characters? ✓
You guys. This book right here will have you forgetting that you're an adult and that you have things you need to get done. But how can you get anything done after starting it? If you're anything like me, you can't. You. Just. Can't. And if you're also like me, you won't care even a little bit that said things did not get done. You have to keep your priorities straight you know... books first... boring chores later. Right? Right. 😉
It didn't take me long to fall in love with all things Calista and Tristan. If ever two souls belonged together it would be these two. They may have spent the last 13 years apart, and Calista may have sworn solemn vows to stay far, far away from Tristan, but their off the charts chemistry is just too hard to ignore. She does her best to stay away and keep at least one of her said vows but the tenacious man has other plans for her. You've got to love a man in love who's not afraid to go after what he knows will make is life complete and his soul happy. *dreamy sigh* Y'all. I just can't get enough of these two! I absolutely adore them! #CouplesGoals
And of course I can NOT forget about Quinn! She is the absolute best scheming little sidekick ever. I seriously loved this girl. Her close relationship with her aunt and uncle was so sweet and will melt your heart. They would do anything and everything to make her happy. And they quickly learned she would do the same for them in return. She is #TeamCalistan all the way! 😉
Ms. Peel has done it again! She never ceases to amaze me. I am in awe of her talent. She has a way of capturing the reader and not letting them go until the very end. There's a reason why she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to get my hands on Jules' book. Y'all. Now is the time where I will be reminding myself on a daily basis that writing takes time and that authors have lives outside of writing. I have no doubt that the book will be more than worth the wait!
As for my casting.. y'all. I. Am. In. LOVE! *dreamy sigh* They are absolutely perfect! What do you think?!
All the feels? ✓ Swoony? ✓ Lots of kisses? ✓ Giggled/laughed out loud? ✓ Let out all the little dreamy sighs? ✓ Big gestures? ✓ Old and new favorite characters? ✓
You guys. This book right here will have you forgetting that you're an adult and that you have things you need to get done. But how can you get anything done after starting it? If you're anything like me, you can't. You. Just. Can't. And if you're also like me, you won't care even a little bit that said things did not get done. You have to keep your priorities straight you know... books first... boring chores later. Right? Right. 😉
It didn't take me long to fall in love with all things Calista and Tristan. If ever two souls belonged together it would be these two. They may have spent the last 13 years apart, and Calista may have sworn solemn vows to stay far, far away from Tristan, but their off the charts chemistry is just too hard to ignore. She does her best to stay away and keep at least one of her said vows but the tenacious man has other plans for her. You've got to love a man in love who's not afraid to go after what he knows will make is life complete and his soul happy. *dreamy sigh* Y'all. I just can't get enough of these two! I absolutely adore them! #CouplesGoals
And of course I can NOT forget about Quinn! She is the absolute best scheming little sidekick ever. I seriously loved this girl. Her close relationship with her aunt and uncle was so sweet and will melt your heart. They would do anything and everything to make her happy. And they quickly learned she would do the same for them in return. She is #TeamCalistan all the way! 😉
Ms. Peel has done it again! She never ceases to amaze me. I am in awe of her talent. She has a way of capturing the reader and not letting them go until the very end. There's a reason why she's one of my favorite authors. I can't wait to get my hands on Jules' book. Y'all. Now is the time where I will be reminding myself on a daily basis that writing takes time and that authors have lives outside of writing. I have no doubt that the book will be more than worth the wait!
As for my casting.. y'all. I. Am. In. LOVE! *dreamy sigh* They are absolutely perfect! What do you think?!
October 6, 2023
"A word of advice: never date--or fall in love with--the older brother of the man your sister plans to marry, even if you doubt she'll actually marry him."
Calista would know all about this and now that she's back in town, she's determined to not even look at Tristan ever again.
This story started out with a bang, one involving a funeral, a pink elf costume, and lots of Christmassy snow. I love the fact that Calista is a doctor and works hard in the ER, and even though that would be an incredibly tough job, she's got the sweetest, softest streak when it comes to her niece, and it was so much fun to watch that shine through.
I enjoyed watching this romcom drama unfold and the swoony interactions with her old flame, Tristan, were worth savoring. He, too, is wrapped around their niece-in-common's little finger and between a little matchmaking and the embers flaming to life once again, this sweet romance was warm and cozy enough to melt a few snowbanks.
Things to love:
🎁peppermint hot chocolate
🎁reese's pieces game
🎁a couple of cameo's of Reese and Josie from A Pumpkin and a Patch
🎁swoony kisses
🎁cozy, snow-filled days and nights
Jennifer Peel always writes such heartfelt character longings and tender situations, and this one is no exception.
Content/TW: mild+ romance (kissing, light innuendo, swoon); off-page talk of cheating; ER situations (not graphic)
Calista would know all about this and now that she's back in town, she's determined to not even look at Tristan ever again.
This story started out with a bang, one involving a funeral, a pink elf costume, and lots of Christmassy snow. I love the fact that Calista is a doctor and works hard in the ER, and even though that would be an incredibly tough job, she's got the sweetest, softest streak when it comes to her niece, and it was so much fun to watch that shine through.
I enjoyed watching this romcom drama unfold and the swoony interactions with her old flame, Tristan, were worth savoring. He, too, is wrapped around their niece-in-common's little finger and between a little matchmaking and the embers flaming to life once again, this sweet romance was warm and cozy enough to melt a few snowbanks.
Things to love:
🎁peppermint hot chocolate
🎁reese's pieces game
🎁a couple of cameo's of Reese and Josie from A Pumpkin and a Patch
🎁swoony kisses
🎁cozy, snow-filled days and nights
Jennifer Peel always writes such heartfelt character longings and tender situations, and this one is no exception.
Content/TW: mild+ romance (kissing, light innuendo, swoon); off-page talk of cheating; ER situations (not graphic)
November 23, 2023
My ex-mas Emergency was a quick and cute holiday romance! I received it as an audio ARC and was able to get through it in one sitting. It is a nice, cozy, and clean romcom (no spice sorry) that was the perfect palate cleanser if you're in between books. Yes, it was entertaining... and so sweet it'll give you a toothache. It was full of tender moments that'll make you swoon. Unfortunately, I can't say Callista was a favorite character of mine, and honestly, I can't say I had a favorite. I wanted more... but overall, it was an enjoyable read but I can't say it's a memorable one (I am so sorry!). The narrators did a fine job bringing this story to life. Just remember we all read different books, and you may just love this one more than I did.
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC and the chance to listen and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
Thank you so much NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the audio ARC and the chance to listen and review it honestly.
Happy reading!
December 22, 2023
"Christmas is just another word for love.”
Oh my goodness! I love second chance romances and this is a great one plus it's a Christmas romance. I don't think I've ever read a romance that starts off at a funeral, and to have the heroine in a pink elf costume . . . well, I had to find out what that was all about.
Tristan broke Calista's heart 13 years ago and now that she's back in Aspen Lake working as an ER doctor it's going to be hard to keep her promise to never look at him again. Especially when their teenage niece asks for a traditional Christmas and keeps coming up with reasons they need to spend time together.
Tristan had his work cut out for him, as Calista had built up quite the wall surrounding her heart and she wasn't giving him the chance to hurt her again. I loved how Tristan was patient with Calista--he remembered what he'd said to her--and knew it was going to take some time to get her to simply not hate him anymore. I like how he was with his niece Quinn and loved when he followed through on the threat he made to his parents if they tampered with Calista's job at the hospital.
Calista is the best!! I'd love to have her as my doctor. She was so caring and listened when people talked to her. She'd worked hard to become a doctor and you could tell she loved her job. I loved her friendship with Jules and hope Jules gets her own story (hint, hint). I liked how much she cared about her sister (who needed to get her act together) and Quinn. I really liked that Calista didn't get back together with Tristan within the first half of the book--he needed to work for forgiveness.
Things I loved:
🩺 Super swoony
🩺 Forced Proximity
🩺 Second-chance romance
🩺 ER visits
🩺 Dual POV
🩺 Calista & Tristan's reconnaissance mission
🩺 Cameos of Reese and Josie
🩺 No 3rd act breakup!
I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrator for Calista. I found I liked the narrator for Tristan better if I sped it up a little, especially when he did the female characters.
I received a complimentary copy from Dreamscape Media via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
Oh my goodness! I love second chance romances and this is a great one plus it's a Christmas romance. I don't think I've ever read a romance that starts off at a funeral, and to have the heroine in a pink elf costume . . . well, I had to find out what that was all about.
Tristan broke Calista's heart 13 years ago and now that she's back in Aspen Lake working as an ER doctor it's going to be hard to keep her promise to never look at him again. Especially when their teenage niece asks for a traditional Christmas and keeps coming up with reasons they need to spend time together.
Tristan had his work cut out for him, as Calista had built up quite the wall surrounding her heart and she wasn't giving him the chance to hurt her again. I loved how Tristan was patient with Calista--he remembered what he'd said to her--and knew it was going to take some time to get her to simply not hate him anymore. I like how he was with his niece Quinn and loved when he followed through on the threat he made to his parents if they tampered with Calista's job at the hospital.
Calista is the best!! I'd love to have her as my doctor. She was so caring and listened when people talked to her. She'd worked hard to become a doctor and you could tell she loved her job. I loved her friendship with Jules and hope Jules gets her own story (hint, hint). I liked how much she cared about her sister (who needed to get her act together) and Quinn. I really liked that Calista didn't get back together with Tristan within the first half of the book--he needed to work for forgiveness.
Things I loved:
🩺 Super swoony
🩺 Forced Proximity
🩺 Second-chance romance
🩺 ER visits
🩺 Dual POV
🩺 Calista & Tristan's reconnaissance mission
🩺 Cameos of Reese and Josie
🩺 No 3rd act breakup!
I listened to the audiobook and loved the narrator for Calista. I found I liked the narrator for Tristan better if I sped it up a little, especially when he did the female characters.
I received a complimentary copy from Dreamscape Media via NetGalley. All opinions expressed in this review are my own.
December 23, 2023
A bit cliché, nothing spectacular, but it did pull me in and it was fun, so. All in all, I'm happy with what I got 😀
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the early copy!
December 2, 2023
I adore second chance at love stories and this one contained so much of what makes them a favorite trope of mine. First, there was a couple that was clearly and totally in love with each other years earlier, followed by a heartbreaking break up that left both characters hurting through the years. There were hurt feelings and anger on Calista’s side and so much regret on Tristan’s. And, finally, there was a hero who was determined to win his true love back once and for all.
I loved that the author wrote this story from both the female and male perspective, so that the reader knows how both of the characters feel. It made Calista’s hurt and Tristan’s desire to win her back even more heartfelt. There were plenty of humorous romcom worthy moments in the story, yet it delved into some deep topics, too, such as self worth, being concerned about the opinions of others, forgiveness, and much more.
I really enjoyed seeing the friendship develop between Calista and Jules. It looks like Jules will be getting her own story soon and that is very exciting! This is the first book that I have read by this author and I definitely plan to read or listen to more of her work.
This is a clean, closed door romcom. It was a very fun listen and I really liked the female narrator. I was not a fan of the way the male narrator voiced the female characters, but even that narration eventually grew on me a bit as the story moved on and I did enjoy the overall audio book and had a lot of fun listening to it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved that the author wrote this story from both the female and male perspective, so that the reader knows how both of the characters feel. It made Calista’s hurt and Tristan’s desire to win her back even more heartfelt. There were plenty of humorous romcom worthy moments in the story, yet it delved into some deep topics, too, such as self worth, being concerned about the opinions of others, forgiveness, and much more.
I really enjoyed seeing the friendship develop between Calista and Jules. It looks like Jules will be getting her own story soon and that is very exciting! This is the first book that I have read by this author and I definitely plan to read or listen to more of her work.
This is a clean, closed door romcom. It was a very fun listen and I really liked the female narrator. I was not a fan of the way the male narrator voiced the female characters, but even that narration eventually grew on me a bit as the story moved on and I did enjoy the overall audio book and had a lot of fun listening to it.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 11, 2023
This book was pretty cute for a sweet holiday romance, but it didn’t wow me.
Calista and Tristan broke up 13 years ago because he was rich and she was from the wrong side of the tracks. However, they are still unfortunately tied together because their siblings married and had a daughter.
A death in the family has brought Tristan and Calista back together and their shared niece, Quinn is determined to get them back together.
Storyline- the beginning started out really cute and promising. but then it dragged out for too long. I stopped caring about what was going to happen when I hit the 50% mark.
I also thought Quinn was approx. 9 years old until they said she had her learners permit. She acted and spoke like a whiny child.
Audiobook portion-
The narrator voicing Calista was great.
The narrator voicing Tristan was not. I didn’t like his voice for the male parts and I REALLY disliked when he would act like one of the females was talking. It was the worst.
The book was just eh for me.
Thank you NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. I really appreciate it!
November 11, 2023
A heartfelt, small town, dual POV, second chance romance that sees ER doctor, Calista Monroe returning home after her sister's cheating husband dies, leaving her niece Quinn in need of extra family love over the holidays.
The only catch to coming back is that Calista now has to get used to seeing her ex, Tristan (who is also Quinn's uncle) all the time. Regretting how he ended things with Calista, Tristan is determined to convince her to give him a second chance.
Full of all the vintage holiday feels and lots of cameos from past couples, this was great on audio and definitely a standout for me this season! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: kissing only
The only catch to coming back is that Calista now has to get used to seeing her ex, Tristan (who is also Quinn's uncle) all the time. Regretting how he ended things with Calista, Tristan is determined to convince her to give him a second chance.
Full of all the vintage holiday feels and lots of cameos from past couples, this was great on audio and definitely a standout for me this season! Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early audio copy in exchange for my honest review!
Steam level: kissing only
November 20, 2023
If you are looking for a cute/emotional second chance romance this one hit the spot! The struggles between the two main characters were perfect and was so relatable. I really enjoyed the narrators as well. The duo narration is one of my favorites and both did a fantastic job. I'll definitely be looking forward to more from this author.
September 4, 2023
Every so often, you come across a book that just gives you all the feels. You cry, you giggle, you gasp, and you immerse yourself in someone else’s world, and it feels like magic. This was one of those books.
I can’t begin to tell you how many lines I highlighted, how many quotes I copied and how often I found myself thinking of this story. Calista is a protagonist that you will love and root for from the moment you begin, and I loved her fighting spirit. She is selfless and always fighting for the underdog and others around her, hence the nickname “Calista the Crusader”. I mean, who else wears a pink elf costume to a funeral?! Then you throw in a new dear friend, a lovable meddling niece, some sneaky spying adventures, a grumpy charge nurse, the magic of Christmas, and a man she never quite got over loving, and you have yourself one fantastic story.
I adored the way Tristan loves Cal, and what he was willing to do to win her back. Reading from his point of view was just my favorite. And oh holy night- they had some kisses and romantic moments that had me alternately swooning and curling my toes in giddy delight! As the book says, “Christmas is just another word for love”.
This story hit the spot, and I honestly couldn’t wait to reread it again, so I didn’t. It was even better the second time through! This book will certainly put you in the holiday mood, with heartfelt references to A Christmas Carol as well as some other fun shows and books. S’mores by a cozy fire, cutting down and decorating the tree, classic holiday movies, Christmas music, forgiveness and reconciliation, and snowstorm kisses will bring the Christmas magic like no other. Grab your copy today- this is one holiday romance you won’t want to miss!
I can’t begin to tell you how many lines I highlighted, how many quotes I copied and how often I found myself thinking of this story. Calista is a protagonist that you will love and root for from the moment you begin, and I loved her fighting spirit. She is selfless and always fighting for the underdog and others around her, hence the nickname “Calista the Crusader”. I mean, who else wears a pink elf costume to a funeral?! Then you throw in a new dear friend, a lovable meddling niece, some sneaky spying adventures, a grumpy charge nurse, the magic of Christmas, and a man she never quite got over loving, and you have yourself one fantastic story.
I adored the way Tristan loves Cal, and what he was willing to do to win her back. Reading from his point of view was just my favorite. And oh holy night- they had some kisses and romantic moments that had me alternately swooning and curling my toes in giddy delight! As the book says, “Christmas is just another word for love”.
This story hit the spot, and I honestly couldn’t wait to reread it again, so I didn’t. It was even better the second time through! This book will certainly put you in the holiday mood, with heartfelt references to A Christmas Carol as well as some other fun shows and books. S’mores by a cozy fire, cutting down and decorating the tree, classic holiday movies, Christmas music, forgiveness and reconciliation, and snowstorm kisses will bring the Christmas magic like no other. Grab your copy today- this is one holiday romance you won’t want to miss!
February 1, 2024
Calista Monroe grew up known as the wild child from the other side of the lake. Now an adult, she’s returning as the hospitals new ER doctor. When her niece Quinn begged her to return home she couldn’t say no. Quinn has her own plan to get her Uncle Tristan back together with Calista but Calista holds a strong grudge for how their relationship previously ended.
He’s determined to figure out a way to win her back.
This was my first Jennifer Peel book and I would definitely try more of her books. The fact that Tristan speaks in third person was annoying and I didn’t think the narrator for Tristan was a good fit. When he tried to do a female voice it just made me cringe. I did enjoy the narrator for Calista but not the character herself. She was still very childish for someone who “grew up and became a doctor”.
Thank you Dreamscape Media for my audio copy.
He’s determined to figure out a way to win her back.
This was my first Jennifer Peel book and I would definitely try more of her books. The fact that Tristan speaks in third person was annoying and I didn’t think the narrator for Tristan was a good fit. When he tried to do a female voice it just made me cringe. I did enjoy the narrator for Calista but not the character herself. She was still very childish for someone who “grew up and became a doctor”.
Thank you Dreamscape Media for my audio copy.
dnf
December 18, 2025DNF @ 3% (basically the moment the male narrator spoke)
Normally I don’t DNF this early, but the male narrator of the audiobook was literally the WORST I have ever heard. He read everything in a dull monotone, to the point that my husband asked me if it was an AI voice. No, it was a guy reading with no emotion whatsoever. He was truly terrible and left me with no desire to continue the book. The story might be good (I don’t really have an opinion of it at 3 percent) but I’d have to read it physically because that was terrible. Never again. I heard literally one minute of his narration and was DONE. He was that bad.
Normally I don’t DNF this early, but the male narrator of the audiobook was literally the WORST I have ever heard. He read everything in a dull monotone, to the point that my husband asked me if it was an AI voice. No, it was a guy reading with no emotion whatsoever. He was truly terrible and left me with no desire to continue the book. The story might be good (I don’t really have an opinion of it at 3 percent) but I’d have to read it physically because that was terrible. Never again. I heard literally one minute of his narration and was DONE. He was that bad.
November 10, 2023
it was cute, it was clean, it was nothing special. i actually liked tristan but my GOD callista drove me absolutely insane with how childish and immature she was as an adult woman who was also a doctor.
January 1, 2024
Another fun Christmas romcom!
Cute small town, dual POV, enemies to lovers- second chance romance.
Calista swore she’d never move back to her hometown, but when her sister’s (cheating) husband dies, Calista feels the need to return and help with her niece, Quinn. Calista is remembered for being a trouble maker, but now is a respectable ER physician. Too bad she also swore to never again look at her ex boyfriend, Tristan. This is difficult as he is Quinn’s uncle, and their niece has her sights set on reuniting them with her desires for an old fashioned Christmas together.
Parts are frustrating, with some of the worst ‘wrong side of the tracks (lake)’ prejudice I’ve read about in a while, along with holding grudges over really old offenses. But there are enough cute, sweet and heartfelt moments to help get past the annoying aspects. There are several good Christmas scenes, and a good snowed in scenario. The side characters are fun, and Calista as an ER doctor and hero is a good, strong lead. There’s good chemistry (just kissing,) with good effort by Tristan to get Calista back. There are some odd and interesting side situations, but the focus remains on the main couple reuniting.
Nothing really outstanding, but it’s a good Christmas romance. I enjoyed it.
Cute small town, dual POV, enemies to lovers- second chance romance.
Calista swore she’d never move back to her hometown, but when her sister’s (cheating) husband dies, Calista feels the need to return and help with her niece, Quinn. Calista is remembered for being a trouble maker, but now is a respectable ER physician. Too bad she also swore to never again look at her ex boyfriend, Tristan. This is difficult as he is Quinn’s uncle, and their niece has her sights set on reuniting them with her desires for an old fashioned Christmas together.
Parts are frustrating, with some of the worst ‘wrong side of the tracks (lake)’ prejudice I’ve read about in a while, along with holding grudges over really old offenses. But there are enough cute, sweet and heartfelt moments to help get past the annoying aspects. There are several good Christmas scenes, and a good snowed in scenario. The side characters are fun, and Calista as an ER doctor and hero is a good, strong lead. There’s good chemistry (just kissing,) with good effort by Tristan to get Calista back. There are some odd and interesting side situations, but the focus remains on the main couple reuniting.
Nothing really outstanding, but it’s a good Christmas romance. I enjoyed it.
November 2, 2025
Merry Christmas 🎄
Such a sweet Christmas romance! Tristan and Calista had been high school sweethearts, but a bad break up by Tristan caused much heartache on both their parts. Their road to reconciliation, 13 years later, was a rough one…..but Tristan ended up showing himself a worthy hero. There is a teenage niece they share they conspires their HEA, and finds her own “happy” in the process. There is second chance romance, grief, and parental problems. I enjoyed seeing cameos from other Aspen Lake books. Jennifer Peel has become a favorite author for me. Highly recommend!
Such a sweet Christmas romance! Tristan and Calista had been high school sweethearts, but a bad break up by Tristan caused much heartache on both their parts. Their road to reconciliation, 13 years later, was a rough one…..but Tristan ended up showing himself a worthy hero. There is a teenage niece they share they conspires their HEA, and finds her own “happy” in the process. There is second chance romance, grief, and parental problems. I enjoyed seeing cameos from other Aspen Lake books. Jennifer Peel has become a favorite author for me. Highly recommend!
December 8, 2023
5⭐️, 0.5🌶️
Me giving an audiobook 5⭐️?! AND a clean romance at that?!
Honestly, not even liking th MMC’s narration didn’t ruin this book for me (okay maybe a little but I loved the story)
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the second chance romance! Calista & Tristan just entertained me, and the added drama of both of their families added humor without making me feel like it was too much.
Thank you NetGalley for an ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
Me giving an audiobook 5⭐️?! AND a clean romance at that?!
Honestly, not even liking th MMC’s narration didn’t ruin this book for me (okay maybe a little but I loved the story)
I really enjoyed this book! I loved the second chance romance! Calista & Tristan just entertained me, and the added drama of both of their families added humor without making me feel like it was too much.
Thank you NetGalley for an ALC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
December 24, 2023
[Really liked it]
This was a really fun holiday read. I loved it in audiobook form. The main characters were great and there was just enough depth to the story to keep me interested. Overall, really liked it! I recommend adding this one to your list.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really fun holiday read. I loved it in audiobook form. The main characters were great and there was just enough depth to the story to keep me interested. Overall, really liked it! I recommend adding this one to your list.
Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing a free advanced copy of this audiobook in exchange for an honest review.
December 10, 2023
I did enjoy it but in my opinion the FMC was a bit too immature. I really liked Quinn though.
November 29, 2023
In my Holiday Reads Era ♥️🎄
If you’re looking for:
♥️ small town vibes
🎄Dual POV
♥️2nd Chance Romance
🎄HEA
Then look no further … My Ex-Mas Emergency by Jessica Peel was the cutest holiday romance that got me all in my feels! It’s quick and made me want to binge read all the Holiday Reads and never stop!! This is easily a book I’d pick up every Holiday season! Calista & Tristan had me swooning! It checked off all the boxes & making me want more!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC in exchange for my honest review. I loved it! This is easily an audiobook you can enjoy and binge listen in one sitting!! 5 out 5 stars! Well done!
If you’re looking for:
♥️ small town vibes
🎄Dual POV
♥️2nd Chance Romance
🎄HEA
Then look no further … My Ex-Mas Emergency by Jessica Peel was the cutest holiday romance that got me all in my feels! It’s quick and made me want to binge read all the Holiday Reads and never stop!! This is easily a book I’d pick up every Holiday season! Calista & Tristan had me swooning! It checked off all the boxes & making me want more!
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Dreamscape Media for this ALC in exchange for my honest review. I loved it! This is easily an audiobook you can enjoy and binge listen in one sitting!! 5 out 5 stars! Well done!
January 11, 2025
I liked it.
October 13, 2023
Calista and Tristan kissing in the tree until she got pushed and Tristan was free.
I don’t know why that popped in my head, but it aptly describes why Calista is hesitant about returning home to Aspen Lake. Even though she’s gorgeous, a doctor and a pretty cool human being. So showing up in an elf costume is sure to keep the town talking, but why not?
Tristan has his work cut out for him if he wants another chance with Calista. And man he takes that to a whole new level. 🔥
Quinn, their niece, has big ideas about having a fantastic Christmas. And wants to play matchmaker. There begins the latest rom com that sometimes made me want to opera sing 🎶 fiiiiive golden ringssssss. Just me? I received a copy of this gorgeous book and I have to say that the dedication was adorable. And we don’t always get dual POV with this author and I so enjoyed that.
This book is filled with all the things:
❤️ 🤗💋🩺🎄😩 🍪 💵 👵🏼 👴🏻 😂 🏥 🦃 🔥 🛤️ 🐶 🥺 🥼💔
We also get to see peeks at past characters from other series. Loved that SO much! The author will make you laugh and cry on the same page and then hits you with the swoon.
And there is plenty of swoony moments. And people to strongly dislike. And a real desire to move to Aspen Lake and just park myself on a bench with some popcorn to people watch.
It’s always the right time to read a book of holiday cheer. Will Calista let Tristan back into her life and choose love over fear?
I don’t know why that popped in my head, but it aptly describes why Calista is hesitant about returning home to Aspen Lake. Even though she’s gorgeous, a doctor and a pretty cool human being. So showing up in an elf costume is sure to keep the town talking, but why not?
Tristan has his work cut out for him if he wants another chance with Calista. And man he takes that to a whole new level. 🔥
Quinn, their niece, has big ideas about having a fantastic Christmas. And wants to play matchmaker. There begins the latest rom com that sometimes made me want to opera sing 🎶 fiiiiive golden ringssssss. Just me? I received a copy of this gorgeous book and I have to say that the dedication was adorable. And we don’t always get dual POV with this author and I so enjoyed that.
This book is filled with all the things:
❤️ 🤗💋🩺🎄😩 🍪 💵 👵🏼 👴🏻 😂 🏥 🦃 🔥 🛤️ 🐶 🥺 🥼💔
We also get to see peeks at past characters from other series. Loved that SO much! The author will make you laugh and cry on the same page and then hits you with the swoon.
And there is plenty of swoony moments. And people to strongly dislike. And a real desire to move to Aspen Lake and just park myself on a bench with some popcorn to people watch.
It’s always the right time to read a book of holiday cheer. Will Calista let Tristan back into her life and choose love over fear?
November 29, 2023
I'm a little conflicted. As far as the Calista/Tristan love story, it had its moments. It was predictable and sweet. A little too much I hate him and will never look at him again scenes. Felt forced. Calista's character was good, Tristan's was just fine. I listened to the audiobook, and I found the narrator for Tristan just didn't fit. His voice, the way he read. I almost dnf'ed just due to that. I do like separate narrators when there are different points of views though, so that was good, just not that male narrator for Tristan. Also, the niece, Quinn. I thought she was a young kid until past 50% in and that was confusing. I don't know if I missed it in the beginning, or just how she was presented. Although I can't even tell you what worked better, when I thought she was 9 or when it turned out she was 15. Another on of this one for me is that suddenly there started to be a whole lot of storylines happening. What started as Calista and Tristan being brought back together suddenly turned into detective/mystery/drama in the last 25% of the novel and it suddenly felt like the story was something else. I didn't hate it, but all these little things just made it blah in the end.
Thank you Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the arc.
Thank you Dreamscape Media and NetGalley for the arc.
January 7, 2024
Swoon!!!
Oh my goodness! I loved this book SO, SO, SO much! I couldn’t put it down because I was obsessed with Tristan and Calista and their second-chance romance!
I tried so hard to hate Tristan for breaking Calista’s heart so many years ago! But, he was so handsome, so sweet, so flirtatious, and such a good uncle to Quinn that I just had to love him and hope that Calista would find it in her heart to forgive him and love him again, too!!
I also loved Calista and her fiery personality! I loved how despite her reputation from her youth, she had really made a name for herself becoming a doctor and moving back to serve the people of her community!! She was the cutest aunt, the best sister, an amazing doctor, and friend! And her chemistry with Tristan (even when she tried to hate him) was just off the charts!!
I also loved cute Quinn and her plotting to get Calista and Tristan back together!
The CUTEST book! Go read it NOW!!
Oh my goodness! I loved this book SO, SO, SO much! I couldn’t put it down because I was obsessed with Tristan and Calista and their second-chance romance!
I tried so hard to hate Tristan for breaking Calista’s heart so many years ago! But, he was so handsome, so sweet, so flirtatious, and such a good uncle to Quinn that I just had to love him and hope that Calista would find it in her heart to forgive him and love him again, too!!
I also loved Calista and her fiery personality! I loved how despite her reputation from her youth, she had really made a name for herself becoming a doctor and moving back to serve the people of her community!! She was the cutest aunt, the best sister, an amazing doctor, and friend! And her chemistry with Tristan (even when she tried to hate him) was just off the charts!!
I also loved cute Quinn and her plotting to get Calista and Tristan back together!
The CUTEST book! Go read it NOW!!
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