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Jingle
It’s Christmas time again and Shae can’t wait to slide into Jingle—his elf persona—for a few weeks at the Frostdale mall. The costumes, the scents, the bright laughter, his friends. It all fuels him for the rest of the year. What he doesn’t anticipate is his entire world changing when his best friend moves back home after being away for eight long years.
Trace has had one goal in mind since his family moved away from Frostdale and that’s to get back. He’s finally saved enough money after college, and he’s home just in time for the holidays. He doesn’t expect to see Shae as anything other than his best friend, but once they’re together again, sparks fly and he can’t help but realize he wants something more.
Jingle is a best friends to lovers, sweet and spicy MM romance featuring a talented pianist that moonlights as a mall elf every Christmas and a web developer that wants to help unwrap him. Jingle is part of the Merry Elf-Mas multi-author series. Each story can be read as a standalone, but why not come along for the ride as each of Santa’s elves finds love during the holidays?
Trace has had one goal in mind since his family moved away from Frostdale and that’s to get back. He’s finally saved enough money after college, and he’s home just in time for the holidays. He doesn’t expect to see Shae as anything other than his best friend, but once they’re together again, sparks fly and he can’t help but realize he wants something more.
Jingle is a best friends to lovers, sweet and spicy MM romance featuring a talented pianist that moonlights as a mall elf every Christmas and a web developer that wants to help unwrap him. Jingle is part of the Merry Elf-Mas multi-author series. Each story can be read as a standalone, but why not come along for the ride as each of Santa’s elves finds love during the holidays?
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2023
About the author
Morgan Lysand
23 books97 followersHey peeps! I’m Morgan.
I’ve always been a reader and a daydreamer. My writer origin story is embarrassing now that I think about it. But also kinda funny, maybe. One day I might share. If people ask nicely. It involves a psychic.
I share an apartment with my sister in Southern Indiana where we keep the AC on year round and try to keep each other entertained.
I’ve always been a reader and a daydreamer. My writer origin story is embarrassing now that I think about it. But also kinda funny, maybe. One day I might share. If people ask nicely. It involves a psychic.
I share an apartment with my sister in Southern Indiana where we keep the AC on year round and try to keep each other entertained.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 79 reviews
November 25, 2023
When Fluff and Fluffier have a child, this book is the result. Sooooo incredibly fluffy and beautiful. Inhaled in an afternoon, because there is simply no reason not to.
A wonderful book even if, as usual with these shorter books, I have to criticize that something was missing for me. A little extra depth in the relationship and a little more expansion on the characters would be really great and would make the book perfect.
Nonetheless, a really well-done little Christmas ornament 😉🤭 as you will understand when you read it.
My Trace kissed me and wants to keep kissing me. I never thought I’d see the day. But I don’t want to rush things. Kissing the same day we start being an us feels both too fast and magical at the same time. But is it really rushing if we’ve known each other our entire lives? 🥰🥰🥰
A wonderful book even if, as usual with these shorter books, I have to criticize that something was missing for me. A little extra depth in the relationship and a little more expansion on the characters would be really great and would make the book perfect.
Nonetheless, a really well-done little Christmas ornament 😉🤭 as you will understand when you read it.
My Trace kissed me and wants to keep kissing me. I never thought I’d see the day. But I don’t want to rush things. Kissing the same day we start being an us feels both too fast and magical at the same time. But is it really rushing if we’ve known each other our entire lives? 🥰🥰🥰
November 23, 2023
I wanted Christmas fluff, and this was absolutely perfect! 🎄☃️🎅🧑🎄❤️
I honestly could not love Shae and Trace more! Both such beautiful, loving people.
Shae (also Jingles when he's in his elf persona) was a pure ray of sunshine... and sparkles... and rainbows... and glitter... and jingly bells. So joyfull, happy and bright.
This wasn't a Daddy/Little story, but did have the aspect of Shae being so full of childish joy and wonder and literally bouncing around, and Trace just being absolutely in awe of that and wanting to take care of him.
I really loved this.
I honestly could not love Shae and Trace more! Both such beautiful, loving people.
Shae (also Jingles when he's in his elf persona) was a pure ray of sunshine... and sparkles... and rainbows... and glitter... and jingly bells. So joyfull, happy and bright.
This wasn't a Daddy/Little story, but did have the aspect of Shae being so full of childish joy and wonder and literally bouncing around, and Trace just being absolutely in awe of that and wanting to take care of him.
I really loved this.
December 31, 2023
Very cute, very Christmassy.
December 3, 2023
Eeeee.. no dobrze. Było oczywiście słodko i bez nawet tyci, tyci odrobiny dramatu.
I zęby mnie okrutnie bolały. I zawiasy szczęki od ziewania.
Ale od tej słodkości tylko trochę...
Dużo bardziej od absolutnej nijakości i takiej strasznie okrutnej prostości.
Chyba ta książka jest skierowana do dużo młodszego czytelnika niż mój niemalże już starczy wiek 😜😂
I zęby mnie okrutnie bolały. I zawiasy szczęki od ziewania.
Ale od tej słodkości tylko trochę...
Dużo bardziej od absolutnej nijakości i takiej strasznie okrutnej prostości.
Chyba ta książka jest skierowana do dużo młodszego czytelnika niż mój niemalże już starczy wiek 😜😂
October 30, 2023
This is such a fluffy & fast-paced MM Christmas romance with loads of holiday cheer, Mall elves, friends to lovers, & sweet family! I loved Shae & Trace, devoured my #ARC in 3hrs. Morgan's story's are the sweetest!
Shae is hardworking & flamboyant. A music person who loves Christmas! Trace is caring with daddy vibes 😉. A code developer! They've been besties since kids, now Trace is finally moving back to their town. The feelings that were on the down low comes to full force, after meeting eachother in person for the 1st time in years!
I liked to see the familiarity with Shae & Trace. They're sweet together, when together the spice is so hot 🤭. The story is quick & fast-paced, but made sense with all of S+T's history & worked as a short story. The (not)label talk was good. It was funny how T kept getting interrupted there 😂, & duck 🙈. I liked all the side characters! So excited for rest of the books 🥰 in this collab. RTC.
P.s. Loved that it's speller Chai in story & not Chai latte, that detail was great 😁.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥰😜😘😏😳😃😁😂😅🤩
4) Steamy scenes: 3/5 (pretty hot for a novella)
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 5/5
Angst: 1/5
Dark: 0/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Holiday cheer & cute relationship) 4/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.6/5
Shae is hardworking & flamboyant. A music person who loves Christmas! Trace is caring with daddy vibes 😉. A code developer! They've been besties since kids, now Trace is finally moving back to their town. The feelings that were on the down low comes to full force, after meeting eachother in person for the 1st time in years!
I liked to see the familiarity with Shae & Trace. They're sweet together, when together the spice is so hot 🤭. The story is quick & fast-paced, but made sense with all of S+T's history & worked as a short story. The (not)label talk was good. It was funny how T kept getting interrupted there 😂, & duck 🙈. I liked all the side characters! So excited for rest of the books 🥰 in this collab. RTC.
P.s. Loved that it's speller Chai in story & not Chai latte, that detail was great 😁.
Story Ratings:
POV: 1st person, Dual POV
1) Overall Enjoyment—> 5/5
2) The Characters: 5/5
3) Top feels: 🥰😜😘😏😳😃😁😂😅🤩
4) Steamy scenes: 3/5 (pretty hot for a novella)
5) Levels: Cute+Swoon: 5/5
Angst: 1/5
Dark: 0/5
6) Creativity + world: 4.6/5
7) Plot arc: (Holiday cheer & cute relationship) 4/5
8) Writing style + pace: 4.6/5
December 8, 2023
This story is just too cute. It's way over the top, and Shae came across as SO immature throughout the entire book, but I still enjoyed the heck out of it.
There's nothing about Trace I didn't love. He has a sweet Daddy vibe going.
I liked all the secondary characters - the other mall elves, both Trace and Shae's families. I'm looking forward to reading the others in the series.
Overall, this is a really fun story by an author I’d never read before. I should also note that if you’re looking for the series order on Goodreads, don’t bother. I couldn’t find the books anywhere together except on the ‘also enjoyed’ part of the book pages. They’re listed correctly on Amazon.
Full review can be found at -
There's nothing about Trace I didn't love. He has a sweet Daddy vibe going.
I liked all the secondary characters - the other mall elves, both Trace and Shae's families. I'm looking forward to reading the others in the series.
Overall, this is a really fun story by an author I’d never read before. I should also note that if you’re looking for the series order on Goodreads, don’t bother. I couldn’t find the books anywhere together except on the ‘also enjoyed’ part of the book pages. They’re listed correctly on Amazon.
Full review can be found at -
November 9, 2023
A sweet and spicy, best friends to lovers romance with Christmas cheer!
Shae loves Christmas. Think a young, blond, Buddy the Elf. He loves running the Elf Squad at the mall, and playing the piano in the local Christmas concert. The only thing missing is his best friend Trace, who moved away 8 years ago. But Shae is in for the best Christmas surprise when Trace announces he’s moving back home.
Trace never labeled himself, but he knows he’s not straight. Shae has always been his best friend, but he has a deep seated suspicion it could be something more. No one else ever quite fits, but when he sees Jingle the Elf upon moving back, his feelings are definitely more than friendly.
These two are sweet as sugar cookies and Shae’s enthusiasm will get you in the holiday spirit!
-Best friends to lovers
-A sweet caretaker
-A bubbly elf who works too hard!
-A meddling group of mall elves
-A beautiful ending!
Shae loves Christmas. Think a young, blond, Buddy the Elf. He loves running the Elf Squad at the mall, and playing the piano in the local Christmas concert. The only thing missing is his best friend Trace, who moved away 8 years ago. But Shae is in for the best Christmas surprise when Trace announces he’s moving back home.
Trace never labeled himself, but he knows he’s not straight. Shae has always been his best friend, but he has a deep seated suspicion it could be something more. No one else ever quite fits, but when he sees Jingle the Elf upon moving back, his feelings are definitely more than friendly.
These two are sweet as sugar cookies and Shae’s enthusiasm will get you in the holiday spirit!
-Best friends to lovers
-A sweet caretaker
-A bubbly elf who works too hard!
-A meddling group of mall elves
-A beautiful ending!
November 4, 2023
Fluffy and sweet no angst book❤️ Best friends to lovers ❤️ good communication and some good 🔥
🌶️🌶️🌶️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
November 11, 2023
God I love holiday romance novellas they make me ridiculously happy 🥰 this was the sweetest best friends to lovers holiday goodness, no agnst with steamy goodness !
December 16, 2025
audio update
New to me narrator Avery Wilde makes an good book so much better with his beautiful narrative skills. His Trace voice alone made a fan for life it just has a soothing quality that I cannot get enough of! I cannot wait to hear more from him in the future.
This is my kind of no angst, just a joy to read, holiday story. What a joy to start the Frostdale Mall elf squad with their ring leader Jingle!
We meet Jingle (Shae) and his childhood best friend Trace, who is finally able to retrun home after 8 years, where they never lost touch. One of those long-distance friendships that prove with work, you dont lose that connection even if it takes time to be back in one anothers lives. These two are just joy personified, which normally is not my favorite thing, but for a holiday story, it's perfect! The spicy scenes were just enough to tone down what could have easily been a too sweet novel.
Cannot wait to see the rest of the elf squad find their hea in this merry elfmas combined universe.
New to me narrator Avery Wilde makes an good book so much better with his beautiful narrative skills. His Trace voice alone made a fan for life it just has a soothing quality that I cannot get enough of! I cannot wait to hear more from him in the future.
This is my kind of no angst, just a joy to read, holiday story. What a joy to start the Frostdale Mall elf squad with their ring leader Jingle!
We meet Jingle (Shae) and his childhood best friend Trace, who is finally able to retrun home after 8 years, where they never lost touch. One of those long-distance friendships that prove with work, you dont lose that connection even if it takes time to be back in one anothers lives. These two are just joy personified, which normally is not my favorite thing, but for a holiday story, it's perfect! The spicy scenes were just enough to tone down what could have easily been a too sweet novel.
Cannot wait to see the rest of the elf squad find their hea in this merry elfmas combined universe.
Read
December 5, 2023DNF 55% - Cute, but everyone’s happy and nice and there’s no conflict, it’s kinda done already.
January 20, 2024
To sweet for my liking but a fun shot read.
April 7, 2026
I enjoyed the audiobook story of Shae and Trace, two best friends for life, inseparable until the age of 14 when Trace’s family moved away, but still connected over the next 8 years with hand-written letters, texts, and phone calls, although they hadn’t seen each other in that time. Shae is ecstatic to learn his best friend is moving back to town. He has really missed Trace all these years, and Trace feels the same. When they meet again, both are excited but something feels a little off. They don’t realize it, but everyone around them can tell they aren’t just best friends, they love each other. Shae has known for years he is gay, but Trace has been experimenting the years they’ve been apart, trying to figure out his own sexuality, and once he sees Shae again, he pretty well knows what he is. Now to share with Shay and see if he feels the same.
Their big reveal gets interrupted so many times, it’s a miracle it ever gets shared, but once they’ve accepted they love each other, the heat level rises. All of this is happening alongside Shae’s “job” at the local mall as an elf for Santa at Christmas, as he juggles elf-ing, his regular job and his music (he’s a concert pianist), and time for Trace, so they can be together. The reader gets drawn into the lives of these two as they realize, then accept, then pursue their love for each other, with a cute “culmination” in the epilogue. Trace’s family are adorable, and Shae’s mom is a second mother to Trace. Both families help facilitate the two getting together, sometimes not very subtly at all.
I liked the narrator, his voice was clear and pronunciation was distinct (I have trouble with certain tones and I could hear all the words perfectly.). I also enjoyed the different voices for the characters, especially the younger children, it wass obvious when characters changed. When I do an audiobook, I usually listen and read because I am much more a reader than listener, but on this one I was trying to do an easy task at the same time so just listened. I found I could follow easily while still multitasking and don’t feel I missed anything in the story. I enjoyed Shae’s elf-ing and his interactions with his coworkers, the dedication he put into creating his musical piece (at times with Trace’s help) and the way it come together once he realized the story he was actually trying to tell with his music, and I also appreciated the symbolism of the stars to both men and their lives. The story was epwell written and narrated in my view, and if your into sties about elves, Christmas, friends to lovers, and some humorous times, I think you would enjoy this book, whether just listening or reading and listening together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Their big reveal gets interrupted so many times, it’s a miracle it ever gets shared, but once they’ve accepted they love each other, the heat level rises. All of this is happening alongside Shae’s “job” at the local mall as an elf for Santa at Christmas, as he juggles elf-ing, his regular job and his music (he’s a concert pianist), and time for Trace, so they can be together. The reader gets drawn into the lives of these two as they realize, then accept, then pursue their love for each other, with a cute “culmination” in the epilogue. Trace’s family are adorable, and Shae’s mom is a second mother to Trace. Both families help facilitate the two getting together, sometimes not very subtly at all.
I liked the narrator, his voice was clear and pronunciation was distinct (I have trouble with certain tones and I could hear all the words perfectly.). I also enjoyed the different voices for the characters, especially the younger children, it wass obvious when characters changed. When I do an audiobook, I usually listen and read because I am much more a reader than listener, but on this one I was trying to do an easy task at the same time so just listened. I found I could follow easily while still multitasking and don’t feel I missed anything in the story. I enjoyed Shae’s elf-ing and his interactions with his coworkers, the dedication he put into creating his musical piece (at times with Trace’s help) and the way it come together once he realized the story he was actually trying to tell with his music, and I also appreciated the symbolism of the stars to both men and their lives. The story was epwell written and narrated in my view, and if your into sties about elves, Christmas, friends to lovers, and some humorous times, I think you would enjoy this book, whether just listening or reading and listening together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 5, 2023
Oh my gosh the cuteness that occurs in this book!! I'm still smiling from all of it!
Shae and Trace have been friends ever since they were kids, when Trace's family moved away they started writing letters back and forth to one another. Trent surprises Shae by moving back to where he feels his home with, yes the place is home, but more importantly, Shae is his home.
Shae constantly goes above and beyond to help others, never really knowing how to say no, or when to take a break. This holiday season is different though, he learned from last year to not over do it. According to his mom and Trace though, it's still happening... Until Trace and his mom interferes.
When Morgan said that this book is all sweet, and full of nothing but fluff I was skeptical.. but Morgan was telling the truth! This book is full of holiday cheer, friendships, and so much love!! Let me start of by giving kudos to where it's due, the writing is phenomenal. The characters are so jolly, loving, and full of humor and fun! The romance component was done terrifically as well! I really like the friends to lovers trope, and Morgan nailed it here!!
This book embodies everything one comes to expect from the holidays. Lights, Santa, Elves, music, sparkles, laughter, love... While I was reading this book I was smiling the whole time, I just enjoyed going on the journey with Trace and Shae. I adored how their friendship morphed into a romantic relationship, and how they just fit so well together! The banter that occured between Shae and his fellow North Pole elves was hilarious, and definitely added a wonderful humorous component to the overall story.
I honestly don't know what else to say, other than the fact that I think you must read this! If you like all of the things I listed above, if you want a story that'll automatically put you in a holly jolly mood, then please get yourself a copy as soon as possible!!!
Shae and Trace have been friends ever since they were kids, when Trace's family moved away they started writing letters back and forth to one another. Trent surprises Shae by moving back to where he feels his home with, yes the place is home, but more importantly, Shae is his home.
Shae constantly goes above and beyond to help others, never really knowing how to say no, or when to take a break. This holiday season is different though, he learned from last year to not over do it. According to his mom and Trace though, it's still happening... Until Trace and his mom interferes.
When Morgan said that this book is all sweet, and full of nothing but fluff I was skeptical.. but Morgan was telling the truth! This book is full of holiday cheer, friendships, and so much love!! Let me start of by giving kudos to where it's due, the writing is phenomenal. The characters are so jolly, loving, and full of humor and fun! The romance component was done terrifically as well! I really like the friends to lovers trope, and Morgan nailed it here!!
This book embodies everything one comes to expect from the holidays. Lights, Santa, Elves, music, sparkles, laughter, love... While I was reading this book I was smiling the whole time, I just enjoyed going on the journey with Trace and Shae. I adored how their friendship morphed into a romantic relationship, and how they just fit so well together! The banter that occured between Shae and his fellow North Pole elves was hilarious, and definitely added a wonderful humorous component to the overall story.
I honestly don't know what else to say, other than the fact that I think you must read this! If you like all of the things I listed above, if you want a story that'll automatically put you in a holly jolly mood, then please get yourself a copy as soon as possible!!!
November 14, 2023
Holiday Cheer Meter: 4/5
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
Book 1 of 5 of the 'Merry Elf-Mas' multi-author series (I read it first).
Shae Lloyd - 22 (Jingle) is the festive spirit of the Christmas personified, he relishes his time as Jingle every holiday season for the past six years. This year, like the ones previously he's spread himself a little thin as he finishes up his Bachelor of Arts in Music, he also auditions for and gets the role of lead pianist in the Christmas concert, which means he has to finish that original composition he's been working on for years. More than anything Shae needs someone to help him find some balance.
Trace Randy - 22 (not affiliated with Santa's Village) is Shae's best friend. His family moved away to Florida when they were 14, though they've remained close, sending weekly letters to each other, and now, after graduating and working long enough as a code developer to save enough money, he is moving home to Frostdale, ME, and Shae. He sees how hard Shae works and wants nothing more than to help him shoulder the burden and lighten the load.
This was the perfect book to kick off my holiday reading. I love best friends to lovers, especially in this type of reunion context where the feelings have been simmering for years. Watching the relationship transition and grow while the characters yearn for more yet don't want to ruin what they have is so satisfying. Shae and Trace are so great together, the caring and communication, everything. The glow-in-the-dark stars were so flippin' sweet!!! Seriously, these guys were so sweet and steamy they made for a perfect Christmas romance couple.
This is my first book with this author and if their other books are anything like this, it won't be my last.
Jingle was the perfect introduction to the 'Merry Elf-Mas' multi-author series. Each book truly does standalone and the time overlap does not in any way get repetitive as different events and characters are explored in each book, very few situations even get a second perspective, which is a great way to keep the stories connected but fresh - it is my preferred format in a multi-author offering, though I can see how it could make things immensely complicated for the author's writing the stories. Although they standalone they are all such a treat to read that I'll bet you devour them all.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
Book 1 of 5 of the 'Merry Elf-Mas' multi-author series (I read it first).
Shae Lloyd - 22 (Jingle) is the festive spirit of the Christmas personified, he relishes his time as Jingle every holiday season for the past six years. This year, like the ones previously he's spread himself a little thin as he finishes up his Bachelor of Arts in Music, he also auditions for and gets the role of lead pianist in the Christmas concert, which means he has to finish that original composition he's been working on for years. More than anything Shae needs someone to help him find some balance.
Trace Randy - 22 (not affiliated with Santa's Village) is Shae's best friend. His family moved away to Florida when they were 14, though they've remained close, sending weekly letters to each other, and now, after graduating and working long enough as a code developer to save enough money, he is moving home to Frostdale, ME, and Shae. He sees how hard Shae works and wants nothing more than to help him shoulder the burden and lighten the load.
This was the perfect book to kick off my holiday reading. I love best friends to lovers, especially in this type of reunion context where the feelings have been simmering for years. Watching the relationship transition and grow while the characters yearn for more yet don't want to ruin what they have is so satisfying. Shae and Trace are so great together, the caring and communication, everything. The glow-in-the-dark stars were so flippin' sweet!!! Seriously, these guys were so sweet and steamy they made for a perfect Christmas romance couple.
This is my first book with this author and if their other books are anything like this, it won't be my last.
Jingle was the perfect introduction to the 'Merry Elf-Mas' multi-author series. Each book truly does standalone and the time overlap does not in any way get repetitive as different events and characters are explored in each book, very few situations even get a second perspective, which is a great way to keep the stories connected but fresh - it is my preferred format in a multi-author offering, though I can see how it could make things immensely complicated for the author's writing the stories. Although they standalone they are all such a treat to read that I'll bet you devour them all.
I was given an ARC and voluntarily wrote an honest review.
April 7, 2026
Really freaking cute best friends to lovers holiday romance audiobook novella
Overall 4 stars; Performance 4 stars; Story 4 stars
'Jingle' is the elf character that one of the main characters, Shae, loves playing every Christmas at his local mall, and he's really good at it, beloved really. His best friend, Trace, moved away with his family from their small hometown in Maine to Florida 8 years ago when they were 14 years old, and has decided to move back to reunite with his best friend. They've written each other physical letters through the postal service weekly for the 8 years they have not seen each other in person. They also text and call a lot of course, and even sometimes video chat, but they haven't physically been in each other's presence for 8 long years. Shae's been in love with Trace since they were kids and it's not really a huge secret to anyone who knows them as even Trace's family tease him about it a little bit as they wonder if his motivation for moving back to nowhere Maine is if he might also be in love with his best friend as well. Shae seems to be very adept at over-extending himself, especially around the holidays, as he is composing a new piano piece for a Christmas show, while doing his yearly gig as Jingle at the mall, plus he's still attending college classes to finish his degree. Trace is a video game developer so is able to work remotely, which is what has enabled him to move back to Shae's town shortly before Thanksgiving, right in time for the holiday season and all of its magic, including Jingle. I loved the audio narration by Avery Wilde. This is the second audiobook narrated by Wilde and written Lysand that I've listened to, and I think they make a great pairing. He really brings the holiday charm to these characters, and if you are looking for a short Christmas listen, this is a perfect low-angst one to recommend.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Overall 4 stars; Performance 4 stars; Story 4 stars
'Jingle' is the elf character that one of the main characters, Shae, loves playing every Christmas at his local mall, and he's really good at it, beloved really. His best friend, Trace, moved away with his family from their small hometown in Maine to Florida 8 years ago when they were 14 years old, and has decided to move back to reunite with his best friend. They've written each other physical letters through the postal service weekly for the 8 years they have not seen each other in person. They also text and call a lot of course, and even sometimes video chat, but they haven't physically been in each other's presence for 8 long years. Shae's been in love with Trace since they were kids and it's not really a huge secret to anyone who knows them as even Trace's family tease him about it a little bit as they wonder if his motivation for moving back to nowhere Maine is if he might also be in love with his best friend as well. Shae seems to be very adept at over-extending himself, especially around the holidays, as he is composing a new piano piece for a Christmas show, while doing his yearly gig as Jingle at the mall, plus he's still attending college classes to finish his degree. Trace is a video game developer so is able to work remotely, which is what has enabled him to move back to Shae's town shortly before Thanksgiving, right in time for the holiday season and all of its magic, including Jingle. I loved the audio narration by Avery Wilde. This is the second audiobook narrated by Wilde and written Lysand that I've listened to, and I think they make a great pairing. He really brings the holiday charm to these characters, and if you are looking for a short Christmas listen, this is a perfect low-angst one to recommend.
I received a free copy of this audiobook via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
October 31, 2023
Jingle
Merry Elf-mas Book 1
By Morgan Lysand
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
It's Christmas time again and Shae can't wait to slide into Jingle-his elf persona-for a few weeks at the Frostdale mall. The costumes, the scents, the bright laughter, his friends. It all fuels him for the rest of the year. What he doesn't anticipate is his entire world changing when his best friend moves back home after being away for eight long years.
This has all of the Hallmark Christmas Movie vibes with some spice. Its perfect blending of Christmas romance and smutty goodness was exactly what I needed.
Shae and Trace we just the cutest coupling and I really enjoyed the lack of angst in their pairing. Going from childhood friend/crushes towards something more could have been heavy on the angst, which I enjoy as well, but the just pure sweetness of them is perfect to put you in the Christmas mood.
I absolutely loved the Elf Squad, they remind me so much of my friend group. You can feel their love for each other, even during their joking banter. I can’t wait to see more of them in the rest of the series.
Merry Elf-mas Book 1
By Morgan Lysand
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
It's Christmas time again and Shae can't wait to slide into Jingle-his elf persona-for a few weeks at the Frostdale mall. The costumes, the scents, the bright laughter, his friends. It all fuels him for the rest of the year. What he doesn't anticipate is his entire world changing when his best friend moves back home after being away for eight long years.
This has all of the Hallmark Christmas Movie vibes with some spice. Its perfect blending of Christmas romance and smutty goodness was exactly what I needed.
Shae and Trace we just the cutest coupling and I really enjoyed the lack of angst in their pairing. Going from childhood friend/crushes towards something more could have been heavy on the angst, which I enjoy as well, but the just pure sweetness of them is perfect to put you in the Christmas mood.
I absolutely loved the Elf Squad, they remind me so much of my friend group. You can feel their love for each other, even during their joking banter. I can’t wait to see more of them in the rest of the series.
November 6, 2023
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If you told me the Shae (aka Jingle) was a real-life elf, I would totally believe it. The chief elf of Frostdale Mall’s Santa village doesn’t know how to do anything half-arsed. This young and super-talented man brings a smile to everyone who knows him. But no one more than his best friend Trace.
Best friends since childhood, Trace and his family moved away but they never lost touch, writing letters (yes letters…be still my heart), but he’s finally moving back. Nothing could make them happier. Except realizing they are in love with each other. And maybe achieving their dream jobs.
This is a sweet, happy, loving story about a guy who is always too busy to take care of himself and one who loves making sure he’s taken care of.
I love a sweet, fluffy holiday best friend-to-lovers story. It makes my Christmas-loving heart sore. And now I’m super excited to meet all the rest of this holiday crew.
If you told me the Shae (aka Jingle) was a real-life elf, I would totally believe it. The chief elf of Frostdale Mall’s Santa village doesn’t know how to do anything half-arsed. This young and super-talented man brings a smile to everyone who knows him. But no one more than his best friend Trace.
Best friends since childhood, Trace and his family moved away but they never lost touch, writing letters (yes letters…be still my heart), but he’s finally moving back. Nothing could make them happier. Except realizing they are in love with each other. And maybe achieving their dream jobs.
This is a sweet, happy, loving story about a guy who is always too busy to take care of himself and one who loves making sure he’s taken care of.
I love a sweet, fluffy holiday best friend-to-lovers story. It makes my Christmas-loving heart sore. And now I’m super excited to meet all the rest of this holiday crew.
November 12, 2023
It's Christmas time and Shae can't wait to slide into his Jingle elf persona for a few weeks at the Frostdale Mall. The costumes, scents, bright laughter and his friends all keep him going for the rest of the year, What he didn't anticipate was his world-changing when his best friend moves home after being away for eight long years. Trace has just one goal in mind since his family moved away from Frostdale and that is to go back. Now he has saved up enough money after college he can go back just in time for Christmas. He doesn't expect to see Shae as anything other than his best friend but when they are back together sparks fly and he can't help but realise he wants something more.
This was such a sweet story with the two best friends who were destined to be together they just needed to grow up and mature into the men that we read about in this book. This was a beautiful example of the best friends-to-lovers trope as these two men loved each other deeply it just needed to move to another type of love. The supporting cast of characters was fun too. Easy to read, feel and understand I felt their excitement when they were reunited again. This is an MM story with mature content.
This was such a sweet story with the two best friends who were destined to be together they just needed to grow up and mature into the men that we read about in this book. This was a beautiful example of the best friends-to-lovers trope as these two men loved each other deeply it just needed to move to another type of love. The supporting cast of characters was fun too. Easy to read, feel and understand I felt their excitement when they were reunited again. This is an MM story with mature content.
October 30, 2023
This is such a cute and fluffy story. It is a low angst, best friends to lovers story. Shae/Jingle is an absolute cutie! He loves piano music, is a composer, and loves Christmas!! He is an elf after my own heart. ❤️
Trace is is Shae’s best friend. They have known each other since they were kids. When Trace moved away from Frostdale, they continued their friendship using weekly letters. 😍 Now he’s moving back and he’s discovering that maybe what he thought was friendship for Shae is actually more, deeper, maybe love.
These two are so adorable together! Trace takes a daddy’ish role in looking after Shae who overextends himself without a thought. Shae is Tracy’s comfort and his support. I can totally see myself rereading this book for two reasons: 1) it’s Christmas story and 2) light and fluffy romance will always call to me. When I’m stressed, I want to read stories that are relaxing, that don’t have a huge build up. Jingle fits that bill for me and I hope you’ll find enjoyment in it too.
Trace is is Shae’s best friend. They have known each other since they were kids. When Trace moved away from Frostdale, they continued their friendship using weekly letters. 😍 Now he’s moving back and he’s discovering that maybe what he thought was friendship for Shae is actually more, deeper, maybe love.
These two are so adorable together! Trace takes a daddy’ish role in looking after Shae who overextends himself without a thought. Shae is Tracy’s comfort and his support. I can totally see myself rereading this book for two reasons: 1) it’s Christmas story and 2) light and fluffy romance will always call to me. When I’m stressed, I want to read stories that are relaxing, that don’t have a huge build up. Jingle fits that bill for me and I hope you’ll find enjoyment in it too.
November 4, 2023
Awwwww!!!! Jingle is just the cutest, sweetest man ever!! 🥰🥰
Shae, aka Jingle, is a college student, pianist, costumer, and elf. Well, he dresses like an elf and he works at Santa’s Village in the mall. He has been friends with Trace since the day they were born. At 14, Trace’s family moved to Florida and that started a weekly snail mail letter writing.
Trace has decided he is ready to move home. Frost sale has always been home. And Shae. With some well placed words, Trace starts to see his relationship with Shae differently. Discovering he is very attracted to his best friend. But, does Shae reciprocate those feelings?
I’m such a sap when it comes to friends to lovers stories. Add in a Christmas magic and it’s a recipe made for me 🥰
Morgan does a fabulous job setting the scene of the Frostdale Mall and Santa’s village. The elves and Santa are obviously close and I’m excited to read about them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
Shae, aka Jingle, is a college student, pianist, costumer, and elf. Well, he dresses like an elf and he works at Santa’s Village in the mall. He has been friends with Trace since the day they were born. At 14, Trace’s family moved to Florida and that started a weekly snail mail letter writing.
Trace has decided he is ready to move home. Frost sale has always been home. And Shae. With some well placed words, Trace starts to see his relationship with Shae differently. Discovering he is very attracted to his best friend. But, does Shae reciprocate those feelings?
I’m such a sap when it comes to friends to lovers stories. Add in a Christmas magic and it’s a recipe made for me 🥰
Morgan does a fabulous job setting the scene of the Frostdale Mall and Santa’s village. The elves and Santa are obviously close and I’m excited to read about them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️
November 20, 2023
Best friends to lovers
Shae and Trace have been inseparable since birth with each other's families in the other's pockets.
Trace left for college and stayed to work.
They're still close, always calling, texting and sending letters.
They're in love with one another but it takes Trace's sister Wendy giving him a push to actually do something about it.
Trace is moving back home to be with Shae and finally get his guy.
They're both a little leery, scared that moving the relationship from more than friends could change things.
It does, in the best way possible.
Shae is just the sweetest cinnamon roll and he tends to overextend himself in order to make sure everything goes right and everyone is happy.
Now that Trace is back he makes it a priority to make sure that Shae gets to rest and relax.
This was a sweet, no angst holiday love story full of Christmas joy and I loved the epilogue.
Shae and Trace have been inseparable since birth with each other's families in the other's pockets.
Trace left for college and stayed to work.
They're still close, always calling, texting and sending letters.
They're in love with one another but it takes Trace's sister Wendy giving him a push to actually do something about it.
Trace is moving back home to be with Shae and finally get his guy.
They're both a little leery, scared that moving the relationship from more than friends could change things.
It does, in the best way possible.
Shae is just the sweetest cinnamon roll and he tends to overextend himself in order to make sure everything goes right and everyone is happy.
Now that Trace is back he makes it a priority to make sure that Shae gets to rest and relax.
This was a sweet, no angst holiday love story full of Christmas joy and I loved the epilogue.
November 8, 2023
This was. The cutest freaking book ever! It was a friends to lovers, and it was just cute. Like so stinking cute! If you are in the mood for a Christmas cutesy story, read this! I loved watching the two main characters grow and become a couple. It was cute. The two of them were so supportive of each other and just ugh! Such a cute book. I think I said cute like five million times! But it was!
shea: what a bean, full of smiles, glitter and sparkles! He had a smile on his face no matter what! And was the kindest person ever. Like so frekaing sweet! Sweet as candy canes!
Trace: shea may have fell first but trace, yeah he fell harder. And he was so supportive so sweet and so kind hearted. Like I can’t he made sure that Shea wasn’t pushing him self to hard. That he wans taken care of. Just a good guy. And the both deserve each other.
Like so stinking cute!!! Gah! I want Easter! Please!
shea: what a bean, full of smiles, glitter and sparkles! He had a smile on his face no matter what! And was the kindest person ever. Like so frekaing sweet! Sweet as candy canes!
Trace: shea may have fell first but trace, yeah he fell harder. And he was so supportive so sweet and so kind hearted. Like I can’t he made sure that Shea wasn’t pushing him self to hard. That he wans taken care of. Just a good guy. And the both deserve each other.
Like so stinking cute!!! Gah! I want Easter! Please!
November 23, 2023
Rating: 4 stars (8/10)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: BF2L, coming home, Christmas, sunshine x sunshine, all the Christmas joy, recitals
Review:
This was a really cute novella following Trace, who is returning to his home town and best friend after having moved away 8 years ago, and said best friend Shae, who is lead elf at the town Santa booth, as well as lead pianist for the Christmas concert they hold each year. These two pine for 2 seconds before they we get some delicious spice and then it's basically just one big HEA for them. I enjoyed that it was a little (or a lot) cheesy and it was a nice palate cleanser from other heavier books I've read recently. I also loved some of the other elf crew we met, and am looking forward to reading about them. BF2L is always a weakness of mine, and I loved how little angst there was between them, just history and love and trust.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: BF2L, coming home, Christmas, sunshine x sunshine, all the Christmas joy, recitals
Review:
This was a really cute novella following Trace, who is returning to his home town and best friend after having moved away 8 years ago, and said best friend Shae, who is lead elf at the town Santa booth, as well as lead pianist for the Christmas concert they hold each year. These two pine for 2 seconds before they we get some delicious spice and then it's basically just one big HEA for them. I enjoyed that it was a little (or a lot) cheesy and it was a nice palate cleanser from other heavier books I've read recently. I also loved some of the other elf crew we met, and am looking forward to reading about them. BF2L is always a weakness of mine, and I loved how little angst there was between them, just history and love and trust.
December 19, 2023
It wasn't a book of great emotions. I say I liked it, but sometimes I found myself distancing myself from the story, it was as if I couldn't create that connection that keeps you reading, which I believe is due to that lack of emotion. Like a pretty face, but without expressions.
For me, the book could have ended in chapter 15, easily. After that it was just nonsense, which doesn't make sense when a story has no subject, specific theme or notable event to work on and develop. This is the story of two young adults, who have known each other their entire lives, but lived apart for 8 years, without ever stopping talking and keeping in touch. At some point, one of them returns to the city of the other, who is passionate about Christmas, and they stay together. Characters from the other books appear and that's it.
For me, the book could have ended in chapter 15, easily. After that it was just nonsense, which doesn't make sense when a story has no subject, specific theme or notable event to work on and develop. This is the story of two young adults, who have known each other their entire lives, but lived apart for 8 years, without ever stopping talking and keeping in touch. At some point, one of them returns to the city of the other, who is passionate about Christmas, and they stay together. Characters from the other books appear and that's it.
November 9, 2023
Jingle by Morgan Lysand is a sweet story about two people who are BFFs and who reconnect in person after an eight-year absence. While I’m not sure two people could meet as if no time had elapsed, but since it’s a cute holiday story so some latitude is allowed. The eponymous Jingle is Shae and a talented pianist in real life. His returned BFF is Tracy (or Trace), a talented web developer. They are surrounded by family, both the blood and found varieties, so there are a lot of people to comment on their lives. Since all the advice is positive, Shae and Trace live in a great environment. There is never any doubt they would get the HEA and they do. I received a free ARC of Jingle from the author Morgan Lysand and I am leaving a review voluntarily.
November 11, 2023
Jingle by Morgan Lysand was the fun and playful read I needed after reading an angsty historical romance that dealt with some pretty heavy themes.
Shae and Trace were fated mates. Period. The story of how they came to realize it is full of heart, and it made me happy. Sometimes I just need a lighthearted love story, and Jingle fit the bill. Lysand started this series off strong. I didn’t intend to read all of the books in the series, but I’ve changed my mind after meeting the others in cameos in Jingle.
Jingle is for you if you’re in search of a lighthearted read that will give you all the happy feels along with a bit of steam. I hope to see Shae and Trace make appearances in the remainder of the series!
I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed above are mine.
Shae and Trace were fated mates. Period. The story of how they came to realize it is full of heart, and it made me happy. Sometimes I just need a lighthearted love story, and Jingle fit the bill. Lysand started this series off strong. I didn’t intend to read all of the books in the series, but I’ve changed my mind after meeting the others in cameos in Jingle.
Jingle is for you if you’re in search of a lighthearted read that will give you all the happy feels along with a bit of steam. I hope to see Shae and Trace make appearances in the remainder of the series!
I received an ARC from the author. The opinions expressed above are mine.
November 25, 2023
I absolutely loved this book. I liked the interactions with the MC’s and the other characters. Shae was such a funny, endearing, talented sweetheart and Trace was such a daddy, always wanting to take such good care of Shae. I liked that there were real emotions and an awakening, as well as fun, flirty banter between the MC’s. The book was well written and I loved how this first book of the multi-author series introduced the other MC’s for the other four books; however, I was surprised that the author gave away a bit too many tidbits from the other books. Other than that, it was a terrific sweet, fun-hearted holiday romance.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 7, 2023
Sometimes there's books I wish I could give more than 5 stars to. This is definitely one of them. Friends to lovers is my catnip and this one did not disappoint.
Morgan is an amazing author that seemingly can write anything. This book had me laughing! Quack!!! And bawling (happy tears, there's no angst here). I love when an author pulls this emotion from me. It makes a great book even better.
Shae is all glitter and Sunshine and go go go. Trace is just the rock, care taker that Shae needs. They're truly perfect for each other. I'm just glad the pining didn't last forever.
This series is so good. I can't wait to read the rest of the books!
Morgan is an amazing author that seemingly can write anything. This book had me laughing! Quack!!! And bawling (happy tears, there's no angst here). I love when an author pulls this emotion from me. It makes a great book even better.
Shae is all glitter and Sunshine and go go go. Trace is just the rock, care taker that Shae needs. They're truly perfect for each other. I'm just glad the pining didn't last forever.
This series is so good. I can't wait to read the rest of the books!
November 7, 2023
Shae and Trace have been BF's for years and when Trace moved away, they continued to write each other weekly. One day, Trace writes he's moving back. Shae is busy with being a concert pianist and studying and his heart lies with playing an elf Jingle at the Frostdale Mall Santa Village. As the boys reacquaint themselves, they realize their deep love. With lots of elements of Christmas magic, family and elf village friends, their love spreads Christmas cheer everywhere. It's a cute holiday novella with a group of friends finding joy and the Christmas spirit in love. I received a copy of this book and this is my voluntary opinion.
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