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A Sweet Meridel Romance #2
The Mistletoe Bluff
Fake dating my arch-nemesis during Christmas...what's the worst that could happen? One year ago, Oliver Lewis ruined my life by winning the community college photography contest-now he's ruined it again by scratching my car. Did I mention it's Christmastime? Now, while my car is being repaired, I'm forced to let Oliver chauffeur me around Meridel. But I've found a silver lining! If I win England's most prestigious photo competition, I can finally pay off my debt and move forward with my life. The only problem is, one of the judges is Oliver's father, and to better my chances, I have to get cozy with my arch-nemesis. pretend to be his girlfriend for Christmas. I thought it would be simple, but I did not expect that underneath that smug, arrogant exterior there'd be a sweet, thoughtful man who would find every excuse to be near me. But it doesn't matter. I, Maya Beck, will not fall for Oliver Lewis. My future rests on winning this contest and nothing-and no one-will get in the way of that. Especially not an annoyingly handsome British man. The Mistletoe Bluff is a sweet, closed-door romantic comedy with laugh-out-loud moments, sizzling chemistry, and swoony kisses.
328 pages, Paperback
First published December 5, 2023
8 people are currently reading
616 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 97 reviews
December 6, 2023
A Christmassy heartfelt DREAM! 🥰
With rivals/enemies to lovers, he falls first, only one car (hehe 🤭), anxiety representation, a fake relationship, a cinnamon roll hero, and ALL THE CHRISTMAS CHEER, what more could a girl ask for?!
I love rom-coms for the lightheartedness they bring & the smile they put on my face. But even more, I love the DEPTHS my favourite romance authors infuse in their stories. Emily Schneider is one of them.
Maya is a loner, terrified of people leaving her. Oliver is determined to show her he isn’t going anywhere. Maya & Oliver aren’t perfect. They’re flawed. They struggle. But over the story they see the beauty amidst the pain. They rewrite painful memories together. And they are so ridiculously adorable my brain can’t even!! 😭😍
Also, LOVE the cameos from Jameson & Elsie! Can’t wait for Emma story next!
Content: falling asleep on the floor together Christmas Eve, nothing happens
With rivals/enemies to lovers, he falls first, only one car (hehe 🤭), anxiety representation, a fake relationship, a cinnamon roll hero, and ALL THE CHRISTMAS CHEER, what more could a girl ask for?!
I love rom-coms for the lightheartedness they bring & the smile they put on my face. But even more, I love the DEPTHS my favourite romance authors infuse in their stories. Emily Schneider is one of them.
Maya is a loner, terrified of people leaving her. Oliver is determined to show her he isn’t going anywhere. Maya & Oliver aren’t perfect. They’re flawed. They struggle. But over the story they see the beauty amidst the pain. They rewrite painful memories together. And they are so ridiculously adorable my brain can’t even!! 😭😍
Also, LOVE the cameos from Jameson & Elsie! Can’t wait for Emma story next!
Content: falling asleep on the floor together Christmas Eve, nothing happens
December 7, 2023
Just stayed up til 2am reading by accident because I couldn’t put it down! Love Oliver and Maya so much, gosh they’re adorable and the chemistry is fire! 🔥
December 6, 2023
So much cuteness and all the Christmas feels!!! This book is like a warm cup of hot chocolate. It's full of perfect moments to make you swoon, laugh, and fall in love with the main characters! Plus, who doesn't want a British male love interest? I loved the rivalry/"enemy" dynamic between our characters. The way Oliver was secretly infatuated with Maya from the beginning kind of gives off a modern Pride and Prejudice vibe. If you're craving Christmas + romcom, this is the perfect read!
December 24, 2024
Such a cute and sweet little book to get in the Christmas spirit. I loved that there was depth and conflict without being insane or inaccurate! The fake dating, rivals to lovers, and kind of forced proximity was really well done! We also love a man that is respectful and a true gentleman. ✨
October 20, 2023
I had the privilege of receiving an Advanced Reader Copy of this book and was so excited after reading the Heart Shot! I am anxiously awaiting Emma's story!
I devoured this book shortly after receiving it and reget nothing. Emily does a great job of writing dual perspective where it gives you a deeper insight into both Oliver's and Maya's stories and feelings as you go. I found myself rooting for Oliver from the beginning and being giddy as he was able to take to draw closer to Maya. I also related a lot to Maya and her story, it gave me hope for my own magic one day. I loved watching the characters create new Christmas memories to remember rather than dwelling on what they may not have previously experienced.
This book may be closed door but that doesn't it mean it lacks tension! I honestly was drawn more to the tension filled moments between Oliver and Maya than what other open door romance books have offered. Their relationship developed physically and emotionally in a way that didn't feel rushed or sudden.
If you're looking for any of the following, this book is for you: smalltown, closed door romance, he fell first, fake dating, and creating your own family.
I devoured this book shortly after receiving it and reget nothing. Emily does a great job of writing dual perspective where it gives you a deeper insight into both Oliver's and Maya's stories and feelings as you go. I found myself rooting for Oliver from the beginning and being giddy as he was able to take to draw closer to Maya. I also related a lot to Maya and her story, it gave me hope for my own magic one day. I loved watching the characters create new Christmas memories to remember rather than dwelling on what they may not have previously experienced.
This book may be closed door but that doesn't it mean it lacks tension! I honestly was drawn more to the tension filled moments between Oliver and Maya than what other open door romance books have offered. Their relationship developed physically and emotionally in a way that didn't feel rushed or sudden.
If you're looking for any of the following, this book is for you: smalltown, closed door romance, he fell first, fake dating, and creating your own family.
November 27, 2023
The Mistletoe Bluff
I was happy to read this follow up to The Heart Shot. I love photography, so getting photographer Maya's story next was exciting. Then add to that that Oliver is a photographer as well. And he wears glasses! That's my kryptonite.
This has a he-falls-first, enemies to more, fake dating set during the Christmas holidays vibe. It has your Hallmark holiday feels.
I enjoyed reading the book and am really looking forward to the next in this series. I am a huge weather geek! Emma is my girl!
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy of the book. I am happily and voluntarily leaving my honest review.
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. (Just because I felt that the point of conflict wasn't developed quite enough for me to understand.)
I was happy to read this follow up to The Heart Shot. I love photography, so getting photographer Maya's story next was exciting. Then add to that that Oliver is a photographer as well. And he wears glasses! That's my kryptonite.
This has a he-falls-first, enemies to more, fake dating set during the Christmas holidays vibe. It has your Hallmark holiday feels.
I enjoyed reading the book and am really looking forward to the next in this series. I am a huge weather geek! Emma is my girl!
Thanks to the author for the complimentary copy of the book. I am happily and voluntarily leaving my honest review.
4.5 rounded up to 5 stars. (Just because I felt that the point of conflict wasn't developed quite enough for me to understand.)
November 24, 2023
I'm not kidding when I say I couldn't put this book down--I read it in just a few hours on Thanksgiving. I'm am so honored to have received an eARC of this because it is insanely good. It's such a sweet story and the perfect romantic Christmas book. It's so full of hope and healing, and I love it!😄
October 27, 2023
After reading "The Heart Shot" I was desperately awaiting the release of this book! And I was fortunate enough to receive an advanced reading copy and quite literally jumped up and down with excitement! If it wasn't for work and school I absolutely would have finished it in one night!
This book did not disappoint and left me contemplating whether I loved it more or the same as "The Heart Shot." This book has all the swoon and steam despite being closed door and I loved it! And I absolutely love the seasonal themes and timing of their release that lets you Cody us and feel like you are right there.
The way that Emily rights is so unbelievably relatable and down to earth. She uses words and language that people actually use like calling someone a "turd" that makes it feel like you a truly reading about a real life love story that's taking place right now in real time. That alone makes it not only easier to read her books, but easier to lose yourself in them and believe that the characters are real people and their relationships are real and attainable.
As soon as I graduate this December I fully intend to start her fantasy series I've had on my kindle since finishing "The Heart Shot" And I am impatiently but also patiently waiting (and desperate) to see what Emily has in store for Emma!!
This book did not disappoint and left me contemplating whether I loved it more or the same as "The Heart Shot." This book has all the swoon and steam despite being closed door and I loved it! And I absolutely love the seasonal themes and timing of their release that lets you Cody us and feel like you are right there.
The way that Emily rights is so unbelievably relatable and down to earth. She uses words and language that people actually use like calling someone a "turd" that makes it feel like you a truly reading about a real life love story that's taking place right now in real time. That alone makes it not only easier to read her books, but easier to lose yourself in them and believe that the characters are real people and their relationships are real and attainable.
As soon as I graduate this December I fully intend to start her fantasy series I've had on my kindle since finishing "The Heart Shot" And I am impatiently but also patiently waiting (and desperate) to see what Emily has in store for Emma!!
December 27, 2023
“Don’t be ridiculous,” I said, voice quiet. “We hated each other from the moment we met.”
He arched a brow. “Speak for yourself.”
I had the great privilege to read an ARC of The Mistletoe Bluff, book two in Emily Schneider's romcom trilogy and I internally screamed so many times while reading, it was absolutely amazing!
I can’t even say if I liked The Heart Shot or this one more.
Oliver and Maya were both such great characters and I loved reading both of their POV’s. A feisty Midwestern woman who desperately tries to continue hating a sassy, teddy bear Brit while he is absolutely crazy for her in a fake-dating scheme was so fun to read about.
There were so many moments where I nearly melted because of how adorable the book was.
10/10 recommend reading it!
He arched a brow. “Speak for yourself.”
I had the great privilege to read an ARC of The Mistletoe Bluff, book two in Emily Schneider's romcom trilogy and I internally screamed so many times while reading, it was absolutely amazing!
I can’t even say if I liked The Heart Shot or this one more.
Oliver and Maya were both such great characters and I loved reading both of their POV’s. A feisty Midwestern woman who desperately tries to continue hating a sassy, teddy bear Brit while he is absolutely crazy for her in a fake-dating scheme was so fun to read about.
There were so many moments where I nearly melted because of how adorable the book was.
10/10 recommend reading it!
December 3, 2024
All the great tropes wonderfully executed
4.75 stars
There were so many things to love about this.
There were just so many wonderful tropes like enemies to lovers, forced proximity, small town, and unrequited feelings. Each trope was executed in a brilliant way to illicit the maximum amount of feels and create a pretty special romance.
The chemistry zigged between them was immediately felt between them as they appeared on the page for the first time. Due to their history, the tension was already there, but it was also how they bounced off of each other was what made this all the more entertaining. Their chemistry was this thing that pulled them together and created that connection. I loved that.
The lengths that Oliver went to show that he had feelings for and had for sometime was just a masterclass. The caretaking was beautiful. The gestures he made were very thoughtful and meaningful. He showed her romance by making things special including Christmas even though she didn’t care for the holiday. The vulnerability he displayed was amazing too because he allowed her to show her own.
The level of Christmas really added to the romance without overpowering it. Some of their romantic “dates” really featured the theme of Christmas and showed what the romance of Christmas truly could be. Doing these activities added some great moments of connection while showing off their chemistry to a tee. The Christmas tree scene was just one example of how to do it. It felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but so much more on a deeper level. It was just great.
4.75 stars
There were so many things to love about this.
There were just so many wonderful tropes like enemies to lovers, forced proximity, small town, and unrequited feelings. Each trope was executed in a brilliant way to illicit the maximum amount of feels and create a pretty special romance.
The chemistry zigged between them was immediately felt between them as they appeared on the page for the first time. Due to their history, the tension was already there, but it was also how they bounced off of each other was what made this all the more entertaining. Their chemistry was this thing that pulled them together and created that connection. I loved that.
The lengths that Oliver went to show that he had feelings for and had for sometime was just a masterclass. The caretaking was beautiful. The gestures he made were very thoughtful and meaningful. He showed her romance by making things special including Christmas even though she didn’t care for the holiday. The vulnerability he displayed was amazing too because he allowed her to show her own.
The level of Christmas really added to the romance without overpowering it. Some of their romantic “dates” really featured the theme of Christmas and showed what the romance of Christmas truly could be. Doing these activities added some great moments of connection while showing off their chemistry to a tee. The Christmas tree scene was just one example of how to do it. It felt like a Hallmark Christmas movie, but so much more on a deeper level. It was just great.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 27, 2023
This was the perfect follow up to The Heart Shot! I loved being back in Meridel with the sweet cast of characters Emily has created!! And this is the perfect holiday romance! Theres fake dating?? And he has it BAD for her?? And she totally hates his guts??
I have such a soft spot for grumpy, ‘people always leave’ girls because they are actually SO SO SOFT but work so hard to be SO tough. And Maya is no different. She hasn’t had it easy, and things are seemingly never going to start looking up, but somehow her arch nemesis is the thing that changes the game for her?? I love her and her sweet, vulnerable heart so much.
I was rooting for Oliver from the get go! And it was the right choice. That boy loved Maya FOREVER, but she was convinced they were enemies. Which made for perfect banter! And he wasn’t going to give up. He was willing to move at whatever pace Maya needed, which is exactl what she needed. It was so freaking sweet. He was also so soft and struggled with his family and his father’s expectations. And I loved watching him break free of that.
I cannot wait for Emma’s book! I am loving the seasonal vibes that Emily has going for each book?!
Thank you so much to Emily Schneider for this ARC in exchange an honest review!!
I have such a soft spot for grumpy, ‘people always leave’ girls because they are actually SO SO SOFT but work so hard to be SO tough. And Maya is no different. She hasn’t had it easy, and things are seemingly never going to start looking up, but somehow her arch nemesis is the thing that changes the game for her?? I love her and her sweet, vulnerable heart so much.
I was rooting for Oliver from the get go! And it was the right choice. That boy loved Maya FOREVER, but she was convinced they were enemies. Which made for perfect banter! And he wasn’t going to give up. He was willing to move at whatever pace Maya needed, which is exactl what she needed. It was so freaking sweet. He was also so soft and struggled with his family and his father’s expectations. And I loved watching him break free of that.
I cannot wait for Emma’s book! I am loving the seasonal vibes that Emily has going for each book?!
Thank you so much to Emily Schneider for this ARC in exchange an honest review!!
December 28, 2023
If you're obsessed with Hallmark movies like I am, you're going to want to pick this one up! Oliver + Maya will make you swoon!
🌲 Enemies to Lovers
🌲 He Has a Secret Crush
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 Christmas RomCom
🌲 Smalltown
🌲 Anxiety Rep
🌲 Closed Door
🌲 No 3rd Act Break-Up
𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑎 𝑚𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 𝑦𝑒𝑡, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝐼 𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎 𝑑𝑜𝑢𝑏𝑡… 𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟.
🌲 Enemies to Lovers
🌲 He Has a Secret Crush
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 Christmas RomCom
🌲 Smalltown
🌲 Anxiety Rep
🌲 Closed Door
🌲 No 3rd Act Break-Up
𝑀𝑎𝑦𝑎 𝑚𝑖𝑔ℎ𝑡 𝑛𝑜𝑡 𝑟𝑒𝑡𝑢𝑟𝑛 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑒𝑒𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑔𝑠 𝑦𝑒𝑡, 𝑏𝑢𝑡 𝐼 𝑘𝑛𝑒𝑤 𝑤𝑖𝑡ℎ𝑜𝑢𝑡 𝑎 𝑑𝑜𝑢𝑏𝑡… 𝑇ℎ𝑖𝑠 𝑤𝑜𝑚𝑎𝑛 𝑤𝑎𝑠 𝑚𝑦 𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑒𝑣𝑒𝑟.
February 2, 2024
3.5 stars
This was sooo extremely adorable!!
I'll definitely be reading this for Christmas because it has the perfect vibes.
This was sooo extremely adorable!!
I'll definitely be reading this for Christmas because it has the perfect vibes.
December 9, 2023
So cute, I loved it!!!!
November 3, 2023
Mistletoe Bluff
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adored this book from the very first chapter!
This is a small town Christmas (closed door) Romcom.
Maya and Oliver go from enemies to fake dating to lovers! Mistletoe Bluff is full of witty humor, swoon worthy lines and steamy closed door moments.
Maya is such a relatable character. She is feisty, she puts on a good face while she keeping her struggles to herself. I think we can all see part of ourselves in Maya.
Oliver a hot British that goes from teasing and childlike flirting to falling first and falling hard. I have to say as a Jeep wrangler girl I SWOONED SO HARD for Oliver and his Jeep!!!
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Villain or hero… Ill be whatever you want if it keeps me close to you”
“I backed her towards the wall and planted my hands on either side of her.”
“I would fight those demons of doubt and slay that dragon of fear that kept her afraid that everyone would leave her.”
Enemies to lovers
Fake dating
Anxiety Rep
Shares body heat to keep warm
Found family
I’m not leaving
Swoon worthy MMC
Feisty FMC
Small town Christmas Romcom
MMC drives a Jeep!!!
I was gifted an ARC copy of this book from the author, this is my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I adored this book from the very first chapter!
This is a small town Christmas (closed door) Romcom.
Maya and Oliver go from enemies to fake dating to lovers! Mistletoe Bluff is full of witty humor, swoon worthy lines and steamy closed door moments.
Maya is such a relatable character. She is feisty, she puts on a good face while she keeping her struggles to herself. I think we can all see part of ourselves in Maya.
Oliver a hot British that goes from teasing and childlike flirting to falling first and falling hard. I have to say as a Jeep wrangler girl I SWOONED SO HARD for Oliver and his Jeep!!!
Some of my favorite quotes:
“Villain or hero… Ill be whatever you want if it keeps me close to you”
“I backed her towards the wall and planted my hands on either side of her.”
“I would fight those demons of doubt and slay that dragon of fear that kept her afraid that everyone would leave her.”
Enemies to lovers
Fake dating
Anxiety Rep
Shares body heat to keep warm
Found family
I’m not leaving
Swoon worthy MMC
Feisty FMC
Small town Christmas Romcom
MMC drives a Jeep!!!
I was gifted an ARC copy of this book from the author, this is my honest review.
December 5, 2023
What a cute read!! I loved the Heart Shot and was so excited to receive an ARC copy of the Mistletoe Bluff!
Can we just talked about Oliver? I SWOON 😍😍 this is the man every girl dreams of. Who choose to stay and fight when us girls feel like our flaws and struggles should make any guy run away. He is the absolute sweetest!
And Maya! What a testament to healing and growing and letting go! I love to see a growth arc!
This story is such a sweet read and the dedication made my heart so happy!!
So excited for this to be in everyone’s hands soon!
Can we just talked about Oliver? I SWOON 😍😍 this is the man every girl dreams of. Who choose to stay and fight when us girls feel like our flaws and struggles should make any guy run away. He is the absolute sweetest!
And Maya! What a testament to healing and growing and letting go! I love to see a growth arc!
This story is such a sweet read and the dedication made my heart so happy!!
So excited for this to be in everyone’s hands soon!
December 5, 2023
✨ARC Review✨
The Mistletoe Bluff
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a swoony and cute Christmas Romcom. This story follows Maya who is attending community college for photography. Oliver is in her photography class and he has become her arch nemesis. They compete with each other for assignments, and he has beat her more than once. This has only increased her hate for him. Once the semester ends, Maya is glad she won’t have to see him again. However, a situation leads them to not only having to be around each other again but to be fake dating each other. If Maya can look past the hate she has for Oliver, she might be able to see there’s more to him.
The Mistletoe Bluff has:
🎄Enemies to lovers
🎄Laugh out loud moments
🎄Grumpy/sunshine
🎄Fake dating
🎄Christmas vibes
I absolutely adored Maya and Oliver. Maya is the perfect character to show that Christmas is not always a joyful time for everyone. Oliver is the perfect character to show that Christmas magic is around in even the littlest ways if you look for it.
The Mistletoe Bluff is the second standalone in the Sweet Meridel Romance series. It will be releasing on December 5th, and is available to preorder now!
The Mistletoe Bluff
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a swoony and cute Christmas Romcom. This story follows Maya who is attending community college for photography. Oliver is in her photography class and he has become her arch nemesis. They compete with each other for assignments, and he has beat her more than once. This has only increased her hate for him. Once the semester ends, Maya is glad she won’t have to see him again. However, a situation leads them to not only having to be around each other again but to be fake dating each other. If Maya can look past the hate she has for Oliver, she might be able to see there’s more to him.
The Mistletoe Bluff has:
🎄Enemies to lovers
🎄Laugh out loud moments
🎄Grumpy/sunshine
🎄Fake dating
🎄Christmas vibes
I absolutely adored Maya and Oliver. Maya is the perfect character to show that Christmas is not always a joyful time for everyone. Oliver is the perfect character to show that Christmas magic is around in even the littlest ways if you look for it.
The Mistletoe Bluff is the second standalone in the Sweet Meridel Romance series. It will be releasing on December 5th, and is available to preorder now!
December 17, 2023
the perfect Christmas book!!
Enemies to Lovers, fake dating, no third act breakup, small town, Christmas festivities….. what more can you ask for?! Oliver is the sweetest and the way he brings the Christmas magic back for Maya had me swooning! Definitely add this to your holiday tbr! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Merged review:
The perfect Christmas book! Enemies to Lovers, fake dating, no third act breakup, small town, Christmas festivities….. what more can you ask for?! Oliver is the sweetest and the way he brings the Christmas magic back for Maya had me swooning! Definitely add this to your holiday tbr! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Enemies to Lovers, fake dating, no third act breakup, small town, Christmas festivities….. what more can you ask for?! Oliver is the sweetest and the way he brings the Christmas magic back for Maya had me swooning! Definitely add this to your holiday tbr! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
Merged review:
The perfect Christmas book! Enemies to Lovers, fake dating, no third act breakup, small town, Christmas festivities….. what more can you ask for?! Oliver is the sweetest and the way he brings the Christmas magic back for Maya had me swooning! Definitely add this to your holiday tbr! I can’t wait for the next book in the series!
December 26, 2023
I love these books! They are so sweet and cozy! If you love a good wholesome rom-com this book series is for you.
November 16, 2023
After reading “The Heart Shot” I could not wait for this one to come out and I was fortunate enough to receive an advance copy of this one. I was squealing like a little kid when I received it. I absolutely loved “The Heart Shot” and “The Mistletoe Bluff” did not disappoint.
If you have read “The Heart Shot” then you will LOVE this book too! It has all the heart and soul of “The Heart Shot” with a fun Christmasy twist. This story follows a character we were introduced to in “The Heart Shot” : Elsie’s best friend Maya and a new male protagonist: Oliver Lewis. The two start out as enemies but a chance of circumstances forces the two spend the holiday season together. Even though Maya is adamant that her feelings stay out of the way the chemistry that builds between her and Oliver cannot be denied. If you love enemies to lovers this is the story for you.
Not only is the story sweet and absolutely remind me of a Hallmark Christmas romcom, it is also a close door romance. Which is something I absolutely love and appreciate. With so many romance books today being full of “spice” and “smut” I’m so grateful to have a series that is not full of “spice”. While it is closed door there is definitely plenty of tension and SWOON worthy moments. Definitely caught myself cheering during those moments.
In addition, Emily does an amazing job in all her books with dual perspectives. Which is one of the many reasons I LOVE her books. I so thoroughly enjoy being able to read from both of the main characters perspectives and Emily pulls it off so seamlessly. This dual perspective and the down-to-earth way she writes makes these characters almost seem like they could be real people. I found myself getting absolutely lost in their story. I was cheering for Oliver from the get go and laughing out loud at his bantering with Maya. Not only did I laugh but I was close to tears. Emily writes in such a way that makes you feel real emotions and that to me is real talent.
So if you enjoy enemies to lovers, the guy falls first, closed door romance, fake dating, and no cringy third act break up then this book is for you. So grab a tissue, light a candle, and grab a warm cup of cocoa as you curl up to read one of the sweetest holiday romcoms.
If you have read “The Heart Shot” then you will LOVE this book too! It has all the heart and soul of “The Heart Shot” with a fun Christmasy twist. This story follows a character we were introduced to in “The Heart Shot” : Elsie’s best friend Maya and a new male protagonist: Oliver Lewis. The two start out as enemies but a chance of circumstances forces the two spend the holiday season together. Even though Maya is adamant that her feelings stay out of the way the chemistry that builds between her and Oliver cannot be denied. If you love enemies to lovers this is the story for you.
Not only is the story sweet and absolutely remind me of a Hallmark Christmas romcom, it is also a close door romance. Which is something I absolutely love and appreciate. With so many romance books today being full of “spice” and “smut” I’m so grateful to have a series that is not full of “spice”. While it is closed door there is definitely plenty of tension and SWOON worthy moments. Definitely caught myself cheering during those moments.
In addition, Emily does an amazing job in all her books with dual perspectives. Which is one of the many reasons I LOVE her books. I so thoroughly enjoy being able to read from both of the main characters perspectives and Emily pulls it off so seamlessly. This dual perspective and the down-to-earth way she writes makes these characters almost seem like they could be real people. I found myself getting absolutely lost in their story. I was cheering for Oliver from the get go and laughing out loud at his bantering with Maya. Not only did I laugh but I was close to tears. Emily writes in such a way that makes you feel real emotions and that to me is real talent.
So if you enjoy enemies to lovers, the guy falls first, closed door romance, fake dating, and no cringy third act break up then this book is for you. So grab a tissue, light a candle, and grab a warm cup of cocoa as you curl up to read one of the sweetest holiday romcoms.
December 15, 2023
First thought: The perfect enemies to lovers closed door romance for the holiday season. If you like cinnamon roll MMCs and feisty FMCs this one’s for you. Throw in some photography, cute banter and the holidays and it’s a total must read.
Maya had one chance to make her photography dreams come true and all she had to do was beat her arc-nemesis in the class competion and get the spread in the coveted magazine that would launch her career. But spoiler alert she didn’t win and she couldn’t hate Oliver the obnoxious Brit anymore atleast class was over and she never has to see him again.
Oliver has had a crush on Maya since the day he’s first met her, but she hates his guts. After winning the classroom competition he went back to England to work for his dad but that not what he wants to do with his life. So he’s back in Meridel hoping he runs into Maya again because he knows they could have something special. But his plans don’t quite work out and his first opportunity to make a good impression he ends up damaging her car and now Maya is out a car for a few weeks while it’s being fixed.
Maybe it’s fate or maybe it’s the worst possible situation but Maya and Oliver are thrown together as she has to rely on him to drive her to and from work for the next few weeks. They are forced to spend time together and for Oliver this is his Christmas wish and he hopes he can get Maya to let down the walls she’s built around herself and let him in and see how much he likes her.
This is a great one you don’t want to miss and if the above wasn’t enough to convince you look at these tropes!
Tropes you’ll find:
* Enemies to Lovers
* Forced Proximity
* Fake Dating
* Small Town
* Cinnamon Roll MMC
* He Falls First
* Closed Door
* Dual POV
* Holiday Setting
Maya had one chance to make her photography dreams come true and all she had to do was beat her arc-nemesis in the class competion and get the spread in the coveted magazine that would launch her career. But spoiler alert she didn’t win and she couldn’t hate Oliver the obnoxious Brit anymore atleast class was over and she never has to see him again.
Oliver has had a crush on Maya since the day he’s first met her, but she hates his guts. After winning the classroom competition he went back to England to work for his dad but that not what he wants to do with his life. So he’s back in Meridel hoping he runs into Maya again because he knows they could have something special. But his plans don’t quite work out and his first opportunity to make a good impression he ends up damaging her car and now Maya is out a car for a few weeks while it’s being fixed.
Maybe it’s fate or maybe it’s the worst possible situation but Maya and Oliver are thrown together as she has to rely on him to drive her to and from work for the next few weeks. They are forced to spend time together and for Oliver this is his Christmas wish and he hopes he can get Maya to let down the walls she’s built around herself and let him in and see how much he likes her.
This is a great one you don’t want to miss and if the above wasn’t enough to convince you look at these tropes!
Tropes you’ll find:
* Enemies to Lovers
* Forced Proximity
* Fake Dating
* Small Town
* Cinnamon Roll MMC
* He Falls First
* Closed Door
* Dual POV
* Holiday Setting
November 1, 2023
4.5+
A sweet, Christmassy RomCom that will leave your cheeks sore from the cheesy smile you'll have plastered across your face.
Maya and Oliver are rivals in their college photography course. Maya absolutely cannot stand the smug, arrogant, blasted Brit who keeps beating her in their class assignments. Fast forward. One thing leads to another and Maya needs Oliver to drive her around for a few weeks while Oliver needs Maya to be his fake girlfriend for a night. In the midst of all the car rides and fake dating practice (😉), Maya soon realizes Oliver *might* not be the total jerk she once thought he was.
This story highlights that not everyone has happy memories of Christmas, but that Christmas magic can be found in other little ways by creating new joyful memories. Maya and Oliver's relationship develops in a way that seems natural and believable. I love that this story has all the sizzle and steam without the spice (that hallway scene, though!). I'm not personally a huge nickname fan, but those who are will appreciate the various levels of terms of endearment throughout the story. Totally enjoyed this story - it's perfectly bingeable if you're looking for a sweet read for the holidays!
Read it for:
🌲 Enemies/Rivals to Lovers
🌲 Only One Car
🌲 Body Heat for Warmth
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 He Falls First (And He Falls Hard)
🌲 MMC Has an Accent
🌲 Dual POV
🌲 Christmas Magic
Huge thank you to the author for an advance copy of your book! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
A sweet, Christmassy RomCom that will leave your cheeks sore from the cheesy smile you'll have plastered across your face.
Maya and Oliver are rivals in their college photography course. Maya absolutely cannot stand the smug, arrogant, blasted Brit who keeps beating her in their class assignments. Fast forward. One thing leads to another and Maya needs Oliver to drive her around for a few weeks while Oliver needs Maya to be his fake girlfriend for a night. In the midst of all the car rides and fake dating practice (😉), Maya soon realizes Oliver *might* not be the total jerk she once thought he was.
This story highlights that not everyone has happy memories of Christmas, but that Christmas magic can be found in other little ways by creating new joyful memories. Maya and Oliver's relationship develops in a way that seems natural and believable. I love that this story has all the sizzle and steam without the spice (that hallway scene, though!). I'm not personally a huge nickname fan, but those who are will appreciate the various levels of terms of endearment throughout the story. Totally enjoyed this story - it's perfectly bingeable if you're looking for a sweet read for the holidays!
Read it for:
🌲 Enemies/Rivals to Lovers
🌲 Only One Car
🌲 Body Heat for Warmth
🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 He Falls First (And He Falls Hard)
🌲 MMC Has an Accent
🌲 Dual POV
🌲 Christmas Magic
Huge thank you to the author for an advance copy of your book! I am leaving this honest review voluntarily.
October 25, 2023
I am back in Meridel, where I belong!
I fell in love with this small town and its people in “The Heart Shot” and I was happy to be back in the world of Maya and her friends. Not only did we get to see Jameson and Elsie again, but we got to dive deeper into Maya’s world.
Somehow, while reading TMB I got so engrossed with Maya’s character that I actually felt how she was feeling, I do not often get that attached to characters. Never mind relating to Oliver and his mentally taxing father (but I’ll save all that for my therapist to unpack).
This was the cutest enemies to lovers I have ever read!
I enjoyed that the “fake dating” wasn’t overbearing and the characters really did understand their true feelings, whether or not they wanted to accept it is a different story altogether!
As always, the imagery was perfect, the car scene, the scene at the tree farm, and the awkward girls’ night turned into a “double date”. How can you make me hot and bothered by a closed-door romance? IDK but this succeeds!
I do not want to get into spoiler territory but just know, there is something everyone can relate to here! I have a lot to gripe about of the car repair cost, but that is only because I am a former mechanic’s daughter!
Ratings
Characters 5/5
Flow 5/5
Plot 4.5/5
Romance 4.5/5
Ease of reading 5/5
Setting 4.5/5
I can’t wait to read about Emma in The Love Chase!
I fell in love with this small town and its people in “The Heart Shot” and I was happy to be back in the world of Maya and her friends. Not only did we get to see Jameson and Elsie again, but we got to dive deeper into Maya’s world.
Somehow, while reading TMB I got so engrossed with Maya’s character that I actually felt how she was feeling, I do not often get that attached to characters. Never mind relating to Oliver and his mentally taxing father (but I’ll save all that for my therapist to unpack).
This was the cutest enemies to lovers I have ever read!
I enjoyed that the “fake dating” wasn’t overbearing and the characters really did understand their true feelings, whether or not they wanted to accept it is a different story altogether!
As always, the imagery was perfect, the car scene, the scene at the tree farm, and the awkward girls’ night turned into a “double date”. How can you make me hot and bothered by a closed-door romance? IDK but this succeeds!
I do not want to get into spoiler territory but just know, there is something everyone can relate to here! I have a lot to gripe about of the car repair cost, but that is only because I am a former mechanic’s daughter!
Ratings
Characters 5/5
Flow 5/5
Plot 4.5/5
Romance 4.5/5
Ease of reading 5/5
Setting 4.5/5
I can’t wait to read about Emma in The Love Chase!
October 28, 2023
You know that first warm sip of hot cocoa you take when the whip cream sticks to your lips and the warmth heats your soul from the inside out? That’s the feeling this story will give you. It’s a sweet story that will thaw any frozen heart. If you’re looking for Hallmark holiday movie vibes in a book form - this is it!
The author does a wonderful job highlighting the main female character, Maya’s, reservations about finding love and the right person for her. It is easy to relate to her keeping her walls up. Oliver is the definition of a “cinnamon roll man”. If this book were a cup of hot cocoa, he’d be the marshmallows! He doesn’t waiver from his feelings in the slightest for Maya. With the trope of enemies to lovers, know that it is primarily one sided before reading too far. At times it seemed like Oliver was almost too perfect and forgiving; but, I realized that is part of the magic of the story and escapism from the reality for readers.
The author also has wonderful talent with details in her writing. She helps paint the scenery and scenes to the point where you can almost use your senses to imagine what is occurring. Curl up with a blanket and warm beverage one chilly, snowy evening this winter and dive into this book, it will warm you up and give you all the ooey, gooey sweet feelings that those Hallmark holiday movies do!
The author does a wonderful job highlighting the main female character, Maya’s, reservations about finding love and the right person for her. It is easy to relate to her keeping her walls up. Oliver is the definition of a “cinnamon roll man”. If this book were a cup of hot cocoa, he’d be the marshmallows! He doesn’t waiver from his feelings in the slightest for Maya. With the trope of enemies to lovers, know that it is primarily one sided before reading too far. At times it seemed like Oliver was almost too perfect and forgiving; but, I realized that is part of the magic of the story and escapism from the reality for readers.
The author also has wonderful talent with details in her writing. She helps paint the scenery and scenes to the point where you can almost use your senses to imagine what is occurring. Curl up with a blanket and warm beverage one chilly, snowy evening this winter and dive into this book, it will warm you up and give you all the ooey, gooey sweet feelings that those Hallmark holiday movies do!
November 27, 2023
This novel is a romcom that portrays two archenemies photographers that get in involve in fake-dating during Christmas time.
Maya and Oliver are the protagonist of this love story. Maya is an amazing photographer who is struggling to pay her bills and absolutely hates Oliver Lewis, her archenemesis in photography class and who has beat her in many class assignments and photograph contests. On the other hand, Oliver is an established British photographer (swooning for that accent) and a very competitive one, who has a major crush for Maya since he first meet her.
Oliver accidentally scratches Maya’s car and so Oliver has to chauffeur Maya around while her car gets fixed. One thing leads to another and they become involved in fake-dating. Two archenemies fake-dating, what could go wrong?
Schneider sets the story in such a witty, Christmassy, funny way that it keeps you engage with each chapter and pinning for Maya and Oliver to get over their “hatred” and get together.
Throught the story, Maya have to face her fears, past, insecurities and walls that prevent her from letting anyone in. Oliver has to make his best attempt to woe Maya. Schneider weaves into the story relatable life situations and insecurities that both Maya and Oliver face.
Enemies to lovers, amazing humor and witty remarks, Christmas 🎄vibes and traditions. A perfect read for this Christmas season!
Thank you to Emily Schneider for this lovely story and for the ARC 🫶🏼.
Maya and Oliver are the protagonist of this love story. Maya is an amazing photographer who is struggling to pay her bills and absolutely hates Oliver Lewis, her archenemesis in photography class and who has beat her in many class assignments and photograph contests. On the other hand, Oliver is an established British photographer (swooning for that accent) and a very competitive one, who has a major crush for Maya since he first meet her.
Oliver accidentally scratches Maya’s car and so Oliver has to chauffeur Maya around while her car gets fixed. One thing leads to another and they become involved in fake-dating. Two archenemies fake-dating, what could go wrong?
Schneider sets the story in such a witty, Christmassy, funny way that it keeps you engage with each chapter and pinning for Maya and Oliver to get over their “hatred” and get together.
Throught the story, Maya have to face her fears, past, insecurities and walls that prevent her from letting anyone in. Oliver has to make his best attempt to woe Maya. Schneider weaves into the story relatable life situations and insecurities that both Maya and Oliver face.
Enemies to lovers, amazing humor and witty remarks, Christmas 🎄vibes and traditions. A perfect read for this Christmas season!
Thank you to Emily Schneider for this lovely story and for the ARC 🫶🏼.
December 24, 2023
Book Review
“The Mistletoe Bluff” by Emily Schneider
Rating: 5/5
QOTD: What is your favorite Christmas book?
Synopsis: Maya is hoping to win a photography contest and pay off some college debt. However, her plans are foiled by the Brit in her photography class. Once the class ends, Maya wants nothing to do with him. Until he comes back into town and turns her plans upside down.
Thoughts: Happy publication day! I was given an ARC of “The Mistletoe Bluff,” via ebook for an honest review. I also plan to purchase a physical copy of the book as well.
Oh my goodness, this book is full of holiday magic! The characters are relatable. Oliver is the perfect Rom-Com boyfriend. So swoon worthy! Also, the car scene…. eek! All the cute feelings with none of the awkward spice! I definitely will be adding this book to my Christmas book rotation! I also loved the ending, it was perfectly executed.
I know I say this a lot, but I think this is Emily’s best book yet! Hands down a book I will be recommending to friends!!!
I know there is one more book left in this series, but I really hope Emily keeps doing rom-coms! They are just so amazing!!!
“The Mistletoe Bluff” by Emily Schneider
Rating: 5/5
QOTD: What is your favorite Christmas book?
Synopsis: Maya is hoping to win a photography contest and pay off some college debt. However, her plans are foiled by the Brit in her photography class. Once the class ends, Maya wants nothing to do with him. Until he comes back into town and turns her plans upside down.
Thoughts: Happy publication day! I was given an ARC of “The Mistletoe Bluff,” via ebook for an honest review. I also plan to purchase a physical copy of the book as well.
Oh my goodness, this book is full of holiday magic! The characters are relatable. Oliver is the perfect Rom-Com boyfriend. So swoon worthy! Also, the car scene…. eek! All the cute feelings with none of the awkward spice! I definitely will be adding this book to my Christmas book rotation! I also loved the ending, it was perfectly executed.
I know I say this a lot, but I think this is Emily’s best book yet! Hands down a book I will be recommending to friends!!!
I know there is one more book left in this series, but I really hope Emily keeps doing rom-coms! They are just so amazing!!!
October 26, 2023
✨ARC READ✨ Booksta: abundance.of.my.heart
I have the privilege of receiving an ARC of this adorable, sweet, heart warming book & it didn’t disappoint ONE BIT😍
Maya was such a wonderful FMC to read about & so so SOOOOOO relatable to me. She loves cheering those she loves on & supports them through everything yet when it comes to her own happiness & love she doesn’t feel like she deserves it🥲 I love her so so much🥺❤️
Oliver. Ugh where do I start with him??? He’s amazing, sweet, caring, protective, respectful… and he still has his own struggles. He isn’t perfect but the way he treasures Maya? It’s EVERYTHING😭
Their story together & all of the plot points & tropes were executed so well, Emily created a stellar sequel in this interconnected series while also teasing another book. This book is full of Christmas cheer & is such a perfect read to curl up on the couch with coffee, a blanket for a cozy night in.
Don’t miss it when this book comes out!! This is of course my full and honest review🥰
I have the privilege of receiving an ARC of this adorable, sweet, heart warming book & it didn’t disappoint ONE BIT😍
Maya was such a wonderful FMC to read about & so so SOOOOOO relatable to me. She loves cheering those she loves on & supports them through everything yet when it comes to her own happiness & love she doesn’t feel like she deserves it🥲 I love her so so much🥺❤️
Oliver. Ugh where do I start with him??? He’s amazing, sweet, caring, protective, respectful… and he still has his own struggles. He isn’t perfect but the way he treasures Maya? It’s EVERYTHING😭
Their story together & all of the plot points & tropes were executed so well, Emily created a stellar sequel in this interconnected series while also teasing another book. This book is full of Christmas cheer & is such a perfect read to curl up on the couch with coffee, a blanket for a cozy night in.
Don’t miss it when this book comes out!! This is of course my full and honest review🥰
December 5, 2023
This was such a cute holiday read! I truly enjoyed returning to Meridel after reading The Heart Shot, and getting to see Jamieson and Elsie again also. Oliver and Maya appear to be opposites at the beginning, but quickly we discover that they are more similar than even they realized.
The author does an incredible job with dual perspective. I was rooting for Oliver from the very first page while understanding Maya’s reasonings for keeping her distance. I adored that they created new Christmas memories together as they created their own kind of family.
The only “problem” I found in their relationship was the complete setup by the author who forced Maya to have Oliver (and only Oliver) as her only ride. This felt a bit too unbelievable, but I certainly enjoyed how awkward it made both the characters feel, forcing them into proximity of one another.
This was reminiscent of a Hallmark movie with all the holiday feels you can imagine and I am so grateful to have gotten an Advanced Reader Copy!
The author does an incredible job with dual perspective. I was rooting for Oliver from the very first page while understanding Maya’s reasonings for keeping her distance. I adored that they created new Christmas memories together as they created their own kind of family.
The only “problem” I found in their relationship was the complete setup by the author who forced Maya to have Oliver (and only Oliver) as her only ride. This felt a bit too unbelievable, but I certainly enjoyed how awkward it made both the characters feel, forcing them into proximity of one another.
This was reminiscent of a Hallmark movie with all the holiday feels you can imagine and I am so grateful to have gotten an Advanced Reader Copy!
November 29, 2023
This was a sweet, contemporary romance that has just the right amount of Christmas magic.
In The Mistletoe Bluff, we follow Maya as she re-encounters her “enemy” from college, Oliver. She wants nothing to do with him, but circumstances have him involved in her daily life now. On top of that, she agrees to be his fake girlfriend at his family’s Christmas dinner in order to relieve the pressure Oliver’s dad puts on him. Maya wants to keep her walls up and her heart safe, but can she as Oliver gets closer to her?
It was so fun to go back to Meridel and see our favorite characters from The Heart Shot. I really enjoyed Maya and Oliver’s story. It was sweet and had some of my favorite romance tropes (fake dating, ‘it’s always been you’).
I’m super excited for Emma and Liam’s story next!
Star Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:
0 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thanks to the author for this eARC in exhange for my honest review.
In The Mistletoe Bluff, we follow Maya as she re-encounters her “enemy” from college, Oliver. She wants nothing to do with him, but circumstances have him involved in her daily life now. On top of that, she agrees to be his fake girlfriend at his family’s Christmas dinner in order to relieve the pressure Oliver’s dad puts on him. Maya wants to keep her walls up and her heart safe, but can she as Oliver gets closer to her?
It was so fun to go back to Meridel and see our favorite characters from The Heart Shot. I really enjoyed Maya and Oliver’s story. It was sweet and had some of my favorite romance tropes (fake dating, ‘it’s always been you’).
I’m super excited for Emma and Liam’s story next!
Star Rating:
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 / ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice Rating:
0 / 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thanks to the author for this eARC in exhange for my honest review.
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