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Holiday Romance #1
Holiday Star
Please note--this book is offered in TWO different versions:
1) A spicy/open-door version with mild explicit language and sex scenes
2) A sweet/clean/closed-door version with no language and only kissing.
I want ALL of my readers to feel comfortable, so please choose the best version for you.
One doctor. One movie star. One house.
One month until Christmas.
What could go wrong?
Dr. Gwen Wright is having a not-so-merry Christmas. For the month of December, she’s alone, house sitting for her mother and new stepfather.
Her surgically precise world gets a plot twist when Caleb Lawson—world-famous movie star on the run from the paparazzi and his secrets—crash lands in her kitchen.
Besides being a Hollywood heartthrob, Caleb is also her stepdad’s nephew. He thinks he has as much right to stay in the house as she does, but as far as Gwen’s concerned, she’s the landlord and he’s the squatter.
The more they are forced to share the small space, the more Gwen is drawn to the moody celebrity. Sure, sometimes he can be a Grinch, but when Caleb finally touches Gwen, it makes her jingle bells ring.
But the future looms like a foggy Christmas Eve. With no red-nosed reindeer to guide them, can Gwen and Caleb overcome their differences? After all, she’s ordinary, and he’s… a star.
For them to fall in love is going to take a Christmas miracle.
1) A spicy/open-door version with mild explicit language and sex scenes
2) A sweet/clean/closed-door version with no language and only kissing.
I want ALL of my readers to feel comfortable, so please choose the best version for you.
One doctor. One movie star. One house.
One month until Christmas.
What could go wrong?
Dr. Gwen Wright is having a not-so-merry Christmas. For the month of December, she’s alone, house sitting for her mother and new stepfather.
Her surgically precise world gets a plot twist when Caleb Lawson—world-famous movie star on the run from the paparazzi and his secrets—crash lands in her kitchen.
Besides being a Hollywood heartthrob, Caleb is also her stepdad’s nephew. He thinks he has as much right to stay in the house as she does, but as far as Gwen’s concerned, she’s the landlord and he’s the squatter.
The more they are forced to share the small space, the more Gwen is drawn to the moody celebrity. Sure, sometimes he can be a Grinch, but when Caleb finally touches Gwen, it makes her jingle bells ring.
But the future looms like a foggy Christmas Eve. With no red-nosed reindeer to guide them, can Gwen and Caleb overcome their differences? After all, she’s ordinary, and he’s… a star.
For them to fall in love is going to take a Christmas miracle.
396 pages, Paperback
First published October 23, 2023
1499 people are currently reading
39988 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Dymond
6 books738 followersMelissa Dymond is a mom, doctor, and bestselling author. When she’s not working, you can find her drinking an iced white chocolate mocha while voraciously reading, scrolling social media, or planning her family’s next Disney vacation.
Always surrounded by boys, Melissa lives with her doctor husband, three amazing sons, and her adorable Siberian husky Buddy.
Always surrounded by boys, Melissa lives with her doctor husband, three amazing sons, and her adorable Siberian husky Buddy.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 975 reviews
November 29, 2023
2.5⭐️
First 50% of the book was cute & fun holiday book vibes, but it unfortunately fell flat for me in the second half and I found myself needing to skim the last 30%. The story could have been much shorter and would have benefited from less unnecessary drama in my opinion. Many parts of it became overly far fetched/cheesy hallmark vibes one minute, but then touched on deeper mental health related topics the next.
Wanted to love this one but overall just wasn’t my cup of tea. I do love that the author wrote both an open and closed door edition of this in order to accommodate all readers, very cool idea!
First 50% of the book was cute & fun holiday book vibes, but it unfortunately fell flat for me in the second half and I found myself needing to skim the last 30%. The story could have been much shorter and would have benefited from less unnecessary drama in my opinion. Many parts of it became overly far fetched/cheesy hallmark vibes one minute, but then touched on deeper mental health related topics the next.
Wanted to love this one but overall just wasn’t my cup of tea. I do love that the author wrote both an open and closed door edition of this in order to accommodate all readers, very cool idea!
October 24, 2023
Calling all reluctant romance readers! You won’t believe what this author is offering…
Read on to discover these amazing options!
Dr. Gwen Wright is finally taking time off from work at the hospital in Manhattan. Exhausted, not dealing with grief in a positive manner, and feeling like a failure at relationships, Gwen’s looking forward to heading back to L.A. to spend Christmas with her parents, Seth and Melinda Peterson. Gwen has organized a one-month academic sabbatical so that she can work on a research paper she hopes to publish and still manage to celebrate Christmas with family.
When she discovers that her parents aren’t even going to be home this Christmas, Gwen struggles with the idea. She can’t believe that the very Christmas she doesn’t have to work, she’ll still have to spend it alone.
Fate has other plans for her….fate involving Caleb Freaking Lawon…the son of her stepfather’s sister.
It’ll take a Christmas miracle for things to fix her not-so-merry Christmas.
Beautifully written and emotionally raw, the author examines the masks we choose to wear, why we feel the need to prove our worth, the debilitating fear of failure, compromise, vulnerability, true happiness, the benefit of focusing on the present, and the value of being authentically YOU. Her characters are as amazing as her message and the story left me emotionally affected.
TWO THINGS:
📢This author offers her story in TWO VERSIONS!!! I am so excited to see that authors are taking this small step that ensures they reach a wider audience. Why has it taken so long?!
Readers can order:
🌶️🔥 Spicy - sex scenes and mild explicit language
OR
💕🌸 Sweet - no explicit language, no graphic sex scenes. Fade-to-black and kissing only. Closed door promise.
📢 features a cancer subplot and the author pledges to donate 10% of her profits to cancer research
If you like enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, tons of chemistry, a touch of groveling, and a HEA, this is a holiday read you’ll want on your night table come November 1, 2023.
A second book, Paging Dr. Hart, is to be published on September 1, 2024 and will be offered in both formats.
Thank you to fellow GR, Carol Vickers, who first posted about this wonderful book! You were right. Great read. Thank you, Carol.
I was gifted this copy by Melissa Dymond DO and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
Read on to discover these amazing options!
Dr. Gwen Wright is finally taking time off from work at the hospital in Manhattan. Exhausted, not dealing with grief in a positive manner, and feeling like a failure at relationships, Gwen’s looking forward to heading back to L.A. to spend Christmas with her parents, Seth and Melinda Peterson. Gwen has organized a one-month academic sabbatical so that she can work on a research paper she hopes to publish and still manage to celebrate Christmas with family.
When she discovers that her parents aren’t even going to be home this Christmas, Gwen struggles with the idea. She can’t believe that the very Christmas she doesn’t have to work, she’ll still have to spend it alone.
Fate has other plans for her….fate involving Caleb Freaking Lawon…the son of her stepfather’s sister.
It’ll take a Christmas miracle for things to fix her not-so-merry Christmas.
Beautifully written and emotionally raw, the author examines the masks we choose to wear, why we feel the need to prove our worth, the debilitating fear of failure, compromise, vulnerability, true happiness, the benefit of focusing on the present, and the value of being authentically YOU. Her characters are as amazing as her message and the story left me emotionally affected.
TWO THINGS:
📢This author offers her story in TWO VERSIONS!!! I am so excited to see that authors are taking this small step that ensures they reach a wider audience. Why has it taken so long?!
Readers can order:
🌶️🔥 Spicy - sex scenes and mild explicit language
OR
💕🌸 Sweet - no explicit language, no graphic sex scenes. Fade-to-black and kissing only. Closed door promise.
📢 features a cancer subplot and the author pledges to donate 10% of her profits to cancer research
If you like enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, tons of chemistry, a touch of groveling, and a HEA, this is a holiday read you’ll want on your night table come November 1, 2023.
A second book, Paging Dr. Hart, is to be published on September 1, 2024 and will be offered in both formats.
Thank you to fellow GR, Carol Vickers, who first posted about this wonderful book! You were right. Great read. Thank you, Carol.
I was gifted this copy by Melissa Dymond DO and NetGalley and was under no obligation to provide a review.
December 11, 2023
If you like a spicy and sweet holiday book, you must check this out! This is an enemies to lovers romance. Dr. Gwen Wright is house sitting for her mom and stepdad for the month of December while she's writing a paper. But when her stepdad's blockbuster , celebrity nephew is trying to avoid the spotlight and shows up at the house, they end up having to spend the holiday together. Even though this would seem to not be a likely story, I felt the author made it believable, and fun. I really enjoyed this.
The author also wrote 2 versions of this story, a sweet closed door romance, and a spicy and steamy version. So everyone can enjoy this one. Whatever your preference. An entertaining forced proximity, opposites attract romance with a cheerful holidays theme!!
Thank you to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
The author also wrote 2 versions of this story, a sweet closed door romance, and a spicy and steamy version. So everyone can enjoy this one. Whatever your preference. An entertaining forced proximity, opposites attract romance with a cheerful holidays theme!!
Thank you to the publisher, author, and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
October 30, 2023
As a doctor, work is stressful and I love to unwind with a light book. Bonus 1- the main character is also a doctor! Bonus 2 - my other favorite hobby, puzzles, is featured! While I see puzzle metaphors in most books, I love seeing the family assembles a puzzle together each year at the holidays.
I enjoyed this book. The main characters and their relationship with each other are well developed and likable. The relationship develops around the holidays but the story spans much longer, so read any time of year!
Thank you to the author for the ARC !
I enjoyed this book. The main characters and their relationship with each other are well developed and likable. The relationship develops around the holidays but the story spans much longer, so read any time of year!
Thank you to the author for the ARC !
November 19, 2023
OMG this book was AMAZING!
Let me tell you, it was soooo well written, it felt like a cozy hug during a winter storm. That’s why I am rating it 5 ⭐️ stars.
First off all, her writing, wow it was great, I loved how she pictured everything but especially the characters, their emotions and their actions. I could practically feel their joy and pain, and that's when you know you're onto something good. It's like making friends with the folks in the book, you laugh with them, cry with them, it’s a whole emotional rollercoaster.
I was hooked from the first page, and the way the story unfolded kept me happily reading.
I also really appreciated how the author addressed the topic of cancer in her book. She integrated it perfectly into the book and let the characters speak.
All in all I found reading her book so great, I wished that the wintertime where already there, that I could read it in front of the fireplace, because it was so cozy and sweet, I’ve had many emotions during this book, but in the end it was only happiness. Also really appreciated her surprise at the end. So if you searching for a winter romance book, read this one because it's so good!
Let me tell you, it was soooo well written, it felt like a cozy hug during a winter storm. That’s why I am rating it 5 ⭐️ stars.
First off all, her writing, wow it was great, I loved how she pictured everything but especially the characters, their emotions and their actions. I could practically feel their joy and pain, and that's when you know you're onto something good. It's like making friends with the folks in the book, you laugh with them, cry with them, it’s a whole emotional rollercoaster.
I was hooked from the first page, and the way the story unfolded kept me happily reading.
I also really appreciated how the author addressed the topic of cancer in her book. She integrated it perfectly into the book and let the characters speak.
All in all I found reading her book so great, I wished that the wintertime where already there, that I could read it in front of the fireplace, because it was so cozy and sweet, I’ve had many emotions during this book, but in the end it was only happiness. Also really appreciated her surprise at the end. So if you searching for a winter romance book, read this one because it's so good!
December 27, 2023
Not a fan of the “not technically incest” trope. Yes, they don’t consider eachother family and they’re cousins by marriage who have only known eachother for 6 month but…. Their family considers the others as family. Just a some weird boundaries. Wasn’t exactly a “meet cute;” meeting at the wedding of her mom and his uncle.
AND THEN the holiday theme was barely there throughout the book. Yes stuff occurred during/over Christmas, but when I’m reading a holiday book, I expect it to scream “holidays,” like I’m reading a Christmas hallmark movie. Any other title and cover that wasn’t holiday themed could’ve been stamped on this book, and I wouldn’t have questioned it. Calling this book a Christmas Book would be the same as calling “Icebreaker” a Christmas book. The amount of Christmas in that book was way more christmassy.
Lastly, most of the couples interactions were just soooooo cringey to read that I kept thinking Gwen was going to suddenly wake up from a dream. It was also very predictable (although Christmas hallmark movies usually are…)
AND THEN the holiday theme was barely there throughout the book. Yes stuff occurred during/over Christmas, but when I’m reading a holiday book, I expect it to scream “holidays,” like I’m reading a Christmas hallmark movie. Any other title and cover that wasn’t holiday themed could’ve been stamped on this book, and I wouldn’t have questioned it. Calling this book a Christmas Book would be the same as calling “Icebreaker” a Christmas book. The amount of Christmas in that book was way more christmassy.
Lastly, most of the couples interactions were just soooooo cringey to read that I kept thinking Gwen was going to suddenly wake up from a dream. It was also very predictable (although Christmas hallmark movies usually are…)
November 3, 2023
I’m in the minority for my rating of this book. I feel this story could’ve been cut by half the length. The first half of the book was fun and kept my interest. Then it just started to drag on and on.
I’m not a fan of insta love which happens in less than a month. The “whole world is ending” for months over a quickie fling is also not for me. Plus those mothers are both extremely rude.
Loved the holiday theme in the beginning but it wasn’t all wrapped up in one holiday season which would’ve been cute. This does wrap up a full year though.
This author does offer two versions of this same story, steamy or cutesy which is a great concept and wished others offered books this way.
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this arc.
Book is now available.
I’m not a fan of insta love which happens in less than a month. The “whole world is ending” for months over a quickie fling is also not for me. Plus those mothers are both extremely rude.
Loved the holiday theme in the beginning but it wasn’t all wrapped up in one holiday season which would’ve been cute. This does wrap up a full year though.
This author does offer two versions of this same story, steamy or cutesy which is a great concept and wished others offered books this way.
Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for this arc.
Book is now available.
December 4, 2023
This was my Fable's book club pick. But honestly, if I wasn't the book club leader, I probably would have dnf'd this book around the 52% mark. It started off so good, but then it felt like the last half was too long. Our book club was really hoping for a spicy book, but the spicey book version didn't seem so spicey to me. It felt like an eternity passed between the spice scenes.
January 3, 2025
Basically a DNF. This book was so long and so annoying for absolutely no reason at all. I liked it at first but once I was about 50% I just skimmed the rest of the pages. I don’t have much else to say, the fact that it was so long for no reason has completely ruined it I don’t even care to make a real review
October 21, 2023
This was such a fun read and I loved every minute I spent reading it! I had a hard time putting this one down because I was completely sucked into the story and I really wanted to know how it would end.
I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline in this one. I found the characters were relatable and I was rooting for them and a happily ever after ending. Even though the relationship between Gwen and Caleb was quick to develop, it was still believable and I liked that they had realistic obstacles to overcome.
Read this if you enjoy:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Celebrity Romance
🎄 Medical Romance
🎄 Enemies to Lovers
🎄 Forced Proximity
🎄 Grumpy/Sunshine
This is the perfect holiday romance and should be put on everyone’s Christmas reading list immediately!
I really enjoyed the characters and the storyline in this one. I found the characters were relatable and I was rooting for them and a happily ever after ending. Even though the relationship between Gwen and Caleb was quick to develop, it was still believable and I liked that they had realistic obstacles to overcome.
Read this if you enjoy:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Celebrity Romance
🎄 Medical Romance
🎄 Enemies to Lovers
🎄 Forced Proximity
🎄 Grumpy/Sunshine
This is the perfect holiday romance and should be put on everyone’s Christmas reading list immediately!
December 25, 2023
I did it, I finished this damn book. At first I was loving it but the middle was so freaking boring that I never recovered. There were some really sweet moments but they were mixed up with some really cringey and boring ones that I was getting whiplash and was almost unable to form an opinion on the story. It was fine, but it wasn't great.
- Previous update -
DNF @ 60% | it was supposed to be fun but it's a mess and I don't have the energy for this right now
- Previous update -
DNF @ 60% | it was supposed to be fun but it's a mess and I don't have the energy for this right now
November 9, 2023
I could not put this one down!! Holiday Star will capture you right away and is an absolute gem of an enemies-to-lovers story in a holiday setting! It beautifully portrays the captivating journey of Gwen and Caleb, who unexpectedly find themselves trapped together during the holiday season. Gwen, an ER doctor managing her writing and house-sitting duties, showcases a strong-willed persona that perfectly contrasts with Caleb, the elusive Oscar-winning celebrity seeking solace away from the public eye. Beyond its delightful romance, the novel gracefully navigates complex emotional themes such as grief, addiction, and terminal illness, weaving a layer of depth that resonates long after the final page.
This stunning debut is a testament to the author's exceptional storytelling abilities, offering a seamless blend of heartwarming moments and captivating twists that leave a lasting impression. This is the perfect read for the upcoming holiday season but could be read any time of year as the storyline spans throughout all seasons. I loved it and the ending is a chef kiss! Overall, Holiday Star emerges as a heartfelt and captivating Christmas romance, celebrating the triumph of love amidst life's trials and tribulations. I can’t wait to see what Melissa Dymond comes up with next!!
Thank you, NetGalley and Melissa Daymond for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. Holiday Star was released on November 1, 2023!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This stunning debut is a testament to the author's exceptional storytelling abilities, offering a seamless blend of heartwarming moments and captivating twists that leave a lasting impression. This is the perfect read for the upcoming holiday season but could be read any time of year as the storyline spans throughout all seasons. I loved it and the ending is a chef kiss! Overall, Holiday Star emerges as a heartfelt and captivating Christmas romance, celebrating the triumph of love amidst life's trials and tribulations. I can’t wait to see what Melissa Dymond comes up with next!!
Thank you, NetGalley and Melissa Daymond for this eARC in exchange for an honest review. Holiday Star was released on November 1, 2023!
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 15, 2024
I appreciated the steamy and non-steamy options and wish more books would do that. I prefer non-steamy as provocative scenes tend to not add any information to the plot. The writing style was simple and the story moved at a consistent pace. A solid 3 stars.
This book was chosen by members of LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club as a December discussion book.
This book was chosen by members of LiterALLy BOOKiSh Book Club as a December discussion book.
November 6, 2023
perfect holiday read- very compelling premise (celebrity actor x doctor) accidentally stuck in the same house over the holidays. All the roomie tension, enemies to lovers, he falls first.
Not only was it cozy and everything I'd want in a holiday romance, it also covered some emotional themes dealing with grief, addiction and terminal illness (not the mcs).
What a STUNNING debut. The writing was very good, it was a page turner.
If I could change one thing about the book, I'd wish it to be little shorter. Some of the plot points and relational development towards the end was more drawn out than I liked. But- there is some EXCELLENT groveling.
Overall, 4.5 stars. Highly recommend. I think everyone will love it!
Not only was it cozy and everything I'd want in a holiday romance, it also covered some emotional themes dealing with grief, addiction and terminal illness (not the mcs).
What a STUNNING debut. The writing was very good, it was a page turner.
If I could change one thing about the book, I'd wish it to be little shorter. Some of the plot points and relational development towards the end was more drawn out than I liked. But- there is some EXCELLENT groveling.
Overall, 4.5 stars. Highly recommend. I think everyone will love it!
December 19, 2024
3.5 Stars - Super cute holiday romance with some references to Twilight, Taylor Swift and Stephen King. Sounds like it shouldn't work together but it's amazing.
October 17, 2024
This book was number one on my holiday themed must-read list. A delightfully fun read, it also shines with knowledge and authenticity, no doubt drawn from the author's real-life experience as a doctor, just like her main character.
Dr. Gwen Wright is not thrilled when she finds out that her family has abandoned her for Christmas while she’s house-sitting for her mom and new stepfather. To make matters worse, her stepdad’s nephew—none other than the infuriatingly handsome and famous actor Caleb Lawson—shows up, thinking he’s staying there too. As they navigate their forced proximity, sparks fly despite their differences. Gwen and Caleb are opposites in every way, but as they begin to listen to and understand one another, their walls come down, giving way to a deepening affection. The question is: can two people from different worlds and coasts find a way forward together?
I love how Melissa Dymond’s female characters are always smart, independent, and driven, yet still caring and vulnerable. The dynamic between Gwen and Caleb was especially fun to watch unfold, as they each admired and supported one another’s talents. The complexities of Caleb’s fame, and the toll it takes not only on him but those around him, made his character so sympathetic. Gwen’s strength in confronting her own issues—and thoughtfully considering the realities of a relationship with someone so famous—added depth to the story.
I also appreciated the smaller but meaningful medical storylines, such as the use of art therapy and the importance of colon cancer screening, which added an extra layer of heart and authenticity. Overall, Holiday Star is a story filled with both heart and intelligence, and I can’t wait to dive into the follow-up book to see where Gwen and Caleb’s journey takes them next!
Lidia Dornet narrates the audiobook that clocks in at about 12.5hours and is very nicely done. It is currently an @audible exclusive audiobook (as of October 2024)
Dr. Gwen Wright is not thrilled when she finds out that her family has abandoned her for Christmas while she’s house-sitting for her mom and new stepfather. To make matters worse, her stepdad’s nephew—none other than the infuriatingly handsome and famous actor Caleb Lawson—shows up, thinking he’s staying there too. As they navigate their forced proximity, sparks fly despite their differences. Gwen and Caleb are opposites in every way, but as they begin to listen to and understand one another, their walls come down, giving way to a deepening affection. The question is: can two people from different worlds and coasts find a way forward together?
I love how Melissa Dymond’s female characters are always smart, independent, and driven, yet still caring and vulnerable. The dynamic between Gwen and Caleb was especially fun to watch unfold, as they each admired and supported one another’s talents. The complexities of Caleb’s fame, and the toll it takes not only on him but those around him, made his character so sympathetic. Gwen’s strength in confronting her own issues—and thoughtfully considering the realities of a relationship with someone so famous—added depth to the story.
I also appreciated the smaller but meaningful medical storylines, such as the use of art therapy and the importance of colon cancer screening, which added an extra layer of heart and authenticity. Overall, Holiday Star is a story filled with both heart and intelligence, and I can’t wait to dive into the follow-up book to see where Gwen and Caleb’s journey takes them next!
Lidia Dornet narrates the audiobook that clocks in at about 12.5hours and is very nicely done. It is currently an @audible exclusive audiobook (as of October 2024)
November 13, 2024
Omg this was my first Christmas book and boy was it amazing! I ate this up. This man is definitely becoming my second blond book boyfriend for sure!
We got forced proximity, a man with a filthy mouth and is possessive. It is slightly enemies to lovers but mostly on the fmc’s end. This book also has deep aspects to it which I love and I enjoyed seeing them help each other grow individually and together as well.
Caleb is a famous actor and Gwen is a doctor. At first he is very broody and closed off but once he starts opening up to her 🤭. Literally love this book so much the perfect Christmas read 🎄
There is a spicy version and a closed door version of this book for people who don’t like spice!
We got forced proximity, a man with a filthy mouth and is possessive. It is slightly enemies to lovers but mostly on the fmc’s end. This book also has deep aspects to it which I love and I enjoyed seeing them help each other grow individually and together as well.
Caleb is a famous actor and Gwen is a doctor. At first he is very broody and closed off but once he starts opening up to her 🤭. Literally love this book so much the perfect Christmas read 🎄
There is a spicy version and a closed door version of this book for people who don’t like spice!
November 6, 2023
5/5 Stars ⭐️
ARC Copy
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a good read that was heartfelt, cute, and perfect for the Christmas holidays. I loved how we got to see Gwen overcome some of her struggles throughout the book and become an even more amazing character. I also loved how we got to see Caleb in a bit of a different light than what he was originally portrayed as. This is one of my new favorite Christmas reads and I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
ARC Copy
I absolutely loved this book! It was such a good read that was heartfelt, cute, and perfect for the Christmas holidays. I loved how we got to see Gwen overcome some of her struggles throughout the book and become an even more amazing character. I also loved how we got to see Caleb in a bit of a different light than what he was originally portrayed as. This is one of my new favorite Christmas reads and I cannot wait to get my hands on a physical copy!
May 7, 2024
✨𝐑𝐞𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰✨
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙂𝙬𝙚𝙣. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙣 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬.”
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: 25, 34 & 69
𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧: 33%
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: Celebrity romance, forced proximity, medical romance, grumpy x sunshine, holiday romance
𝐏𝐎𝐕: 1st person, Single POV (bonus chapters from MMC’s POV)
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: TBD
𝐊𝐔: Yes
I love celebrity romances and medical romances, and this book has both! This is a cute romance story that also handles heavier topics like grief and alcoholism, and the author does this with grace. Even though this is a holiday romance, it can still be enjoyed outside of the holiday season.
I love how the author has two versions of the book available to meet the preferences of all readers, a sweet and a spicy version! I hope this is a new trend that other authors are going to jump on because it’s such a great idea! Overall, such a fun read and I am excited about reading book 2 in the series, Holiday Wedding!
⚠️𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⚠️
Multiple open door scenes with explicit descriptions
Moderate language
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙢𝙞𝙣𝙚, 𝙂𝙬𝙚𝙣. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙞𝙩𝙖𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙖𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙪𝙣 𝙜𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙙𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙤𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙤𝙬.”
𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐲 𝐜𝐡𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬: 25, 34 & 69
𝐒𝐥𝐨𝐰 𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧: 33%
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬: Celebrity romance, forced proximity, medical romance, grumpy x sunshine, holiday romance
𝐏𝐎𝐕: 1st person, Single POV (bonus chapters from MMC’s POV)
𝐍𝐚𝐫𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧: TBD
𝐊𝐔: Yes
I love celebrity romances and medical romances, and this book has both! This is a cute romance story that also handles heavier topics like grief and alcoholism, and the author does this with grace. Even though this is a holiday romance, it can still be enjoyed outside of the holiday season.
I love how the author has two versions of the book available to meet the preferences of all readers, a sweet and a spicy version! I hope this is a new trend that other authors are going to jump on because it’s such a great idea! Overall, such a fun read and I am excited about reading book 2 in the series, Holiday Wedding!
⚠️𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:⚠️
Multiple open door scenes with explicit descriptions
Moderate language
𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐠𝐞𝐫 𝐖𝐚𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬:
October 7, 2024
This spicy holiday romance is a follow up to Holiday Star but I read it as a stand alone. (No problem) The story follows 2 couples; Gwen and Caleb and Jenny and Dean. It’s the lead up to a holiday wedding with a blizzard, a stalker and lots of spicy romance. It was a fun fast read.
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Pub Date: November 1, 2024
Thank you to Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Pub Date: November 1, 2024
December 7, 2023
A good book but... it should not be marketed as a "Holiday" book at all. Because all of that was in the background (and only when the story starts).
1🎄 "Christmas in L.A." star
1🎄 "Christmas in L.A." star
November 13, 2023
Holiday Star is the perfect holiday read!! This was such a fun read and I had a hard time putting it down! I truly enjoyed every minute of this story. It has forced proximity, forbidden love, and spice!! I loved the main characters and enjoyed the storyline.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review!
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book for an honest review!
November 28, 2023
As soon as Nov 1st hits I love nothing more than a holiday romance and this one delivered.
Thank you NetGalley for the read.
The Twilight structure really does make such a good romance read! Enemies, together, apart and then a new beginning. I loved Gwen's strength, smarts and creativity even though she's a doctor. And I equally loved Caleb's insecurity despite being mega famous.
I loved them getting to know eachother over Christmas! 🎄 And of course I read the spicy version 🔥
The only thing I didn't love was Caleb exclaiming that eventually he would take what was his... It wasn't my feminist dream.
Such a good Christmas read which I'll definitely pick up again next year 🎁 ❄️
(Also reviewed on Amazon)
Thank you NetGalley for the read.
The Twilight structure really does make such a good romance read! Enemies, together, apart and then a new beginning. I loved Gwen's strength, smarts and creativity even though she's a doctor. And I equally loved Caleb's insecurity despite being mega famous.
I loved them getting to know eachother over Christmas! 🎄 And of course I read the spicy version 🔥
The only thing I didn't love was Caleb exclaiming that eventually he would take what was his... It wasn't my feminist dream.
Such a good Christmas read which I'll definitely pick up again next year 🎁 ❄️
(Also reviewed on Amazon)
November 16, 2023
3.5⭐️
The first 50% of the book had me high. It was so good the plot and the characters even though its fast paced.
Gwen & Caleb💕
It didn’t scream typical celebrity romance. The author did good with all the mental health topics .
What I liked the most is Gwen did in the second half to Caleb she didn’t give in easily, she made him see his worth and made him work for her .
Didn’t like the dragging which felt quite unnecessary and I skimmed later half of the book pretty much. It could be short for a holiday romance.
Tropes:
Celebrity x Doctor
Grumpy sunshine
Friends to lovers
Close proximity
He falls first
Spice:🌶️🌶️
The first 50% of the book had me high. It was so good the plot and the characters even though its fast paced.
Gwen & Caleb💕
It didn’t scream typical celebrity romance. The author did good with all the mental health topics .
What I liked the most is Gwen did in the second half to Caleb she didn’t give in easily, she made him see his worth and made him work for her .
Didn’t like the dragging which felt quite unnecessary and I skimmed later half of the book pretty much. It could be short for a holiday romance.
Tropes:
Celebrity x Doctor
Grumpy sunshine
Friends to lovers
Close proximity
He falls first
Spice:🌶️🌶️
December 23, 2023
1.5/5, rounded down | I knew I was getting into a fluffy holiday read, but those can still be good!!! This was not. It read like really bad fan fiction. Even the first half which had me interested enough to read was below average. The second half completely lost me. I was skimming and soooo tempted to DNF. The dialogue was terribly cringey, unrealistic, and immature for two supposed adults. I mean, at one point FMC unbuckled her seatbelt in a helicopter so she could make out with MMC… this is such a minor thing, but imagine all situations in the book being that annoying and unrealistic, lol.
October 31, 2023
Thanks to NetGalley, Victory Editing, and the author, Dr. Melissa Dymond, for allowing me to review an advanced reader copy of Holiday Star!
It couldn't have been more perfect, a smart doctor (Gwen) and a movie star (Logan) meet at the wedding of her mom and his uncle. The end? Not quite. After not seeing each other for some time, they are pushed together under unexpected circumstances when Dr. Gwen's mom and new husband leave for Japan on a new adventure leaving her to housesit. Soon, Dr. Gwen and Logan learn more about each other. She, still suffering from losing her dad to colon cancer, and him feeling the high expectations from his family and fans.
This book was quite a page turner, where I didn't at any time feel like the story stalled out. It flowed perfectly in how the two main characters discover things about each other and themselves, leading to them both relying on each other for unconditional support. The author wrote two versions of this book, a spicy/open book version, and a sweet/closed door version. I read the spicy version, and it is spicy but not to the point of being unrealistic or bothersome in the storyline. I enjoyed that the Dr. Gwen (female main character) had her own life as a smart, independent doctor before she met Logan. She wanted to save the world by helping her patients and inevitably saved others close to her in the process.
An inspirational love story to always keep going and be there for the people you love. I enjoyed this book and loved that the author is donating 10% of proceeds to fund colon cancer research.
It couldn't have been more perfect, a smart doctor (Gwen) and a movie star (Logan) meet at the wedding of her mom and his uncle. The end? Not quite. After not seeing each other for some time, they are pushed together under unexpected circumstances when Dr. Gwen's mom and new husband leave for Japan on a new adventure leaving her to housesit. Soon, Dr. Gwen and Logan learn more about each other. She, still suffering from losing her dad to colon cancer, and him feeling the high expectations from his family and fans.
This book was quite a page turner, where I didn't at any time feel like the story stalled out. It flowed perfectly in how the two main characters discover things about each other and themselves, leading to them both relying on each other for unconditional support. The author wrote two versions of this book, a spicy/open book version, and a sweet/closed door version. I read the spicy version, and it is spicy but not to the point of being unrealistic or bothersome in the storyline. I enjoyed that the Dr. Gwen (female main character) had her own life as a smart, independent doctor before she met Logan. She wanted to save the world by helping her patients and inevitably saved others close to her in the process.
An inspirational love story to always keep going and be there for the people you love. I enjoyed this book and loved that the author is donating 10% of proceeds to fund colon cancer research.
October 30, 2023
I’m so thankful to Net Galley & the author for allowing me to read this early in exchange for my honest review!!
I adored this book! Going into it I was totally getting ROMCOM vibes but it was much deeper. Gwen is an ER doctor who is house sitting for her mom & stepdad in LA over Christmas. Here she is thinking she’ll be alone over the holidays, when Caleb, her stepdads nephew - super famous movie star, shows up at the house to hideout.
They each are dealing with their own struggles & grief but begin to open up the more time they spend together.
This book was about dealing with heartache & loss, coming together, falling apart, only to find eachother again, but also finding yourself & being with someone who encourages you to follow your dreams & makes you want to be a better version of yourself.
With the Christmas vibes mixed in I highly recommend adding this to your holiday TBR! GREAT read!
I adored this book! Going into it I was totally getting ROMCOM vibes but it was much deeper. Gwen is an ER doctor who is house sitting for her mom & stepdad in LA over Christmas. Here she is thinking she’ll be alone over the holidays, when Caleb, her stepdads nephew - super famous movie star, shows up at the house to hideout.
They each are dealing with their own struggles & grief but begin to open up the more time they spend together.
This book was about dealing with heartache & loss, coming together, falling apart, only to find eachother again, but also finding yourself & being with someone who encourages you to follow your dreams & makes you want to be a better version of yourself.
With the Christmas vibes mixed in I highly recommend adding this to your holiday TBR! GREAT read!
October 30, 2023
Totally entertaining enemies to lovers story of two step-cousins in law stuck together while Gwen, ER doctor writing paper and house-sitting, and Caleb, Oscar winning celeb hides out from everyone. Characters are well drawn and the story has an underlying theme of struggling with grief that is touched with real poignancy. The author offers two versions of the story: one, closed door and the other with a bit of spice. Actually would be a 4.25 stars if Goodreads allowed more nuance in the rating system. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
December 4, 2023
4.25 rounded ⭐️ okay maybe i found a romance trope i like?? lol this book was super cute! i actually really liked the couple and their story. but i wouldn’t say this book is super holiday-christmas ends half way through. i almost felt like the second part was a different book. but i didn’t mind that! of course things were unrealistic and a bit cringe but this one worked for me. and i’m excited about the sequel!
and she published two versions of this! clean, closed door and spicy, open door
and she published two versions of this! clean, closed door and spicy, open door
November 15, 2023
This book is perfect if you love romance with a holiday .. but I loved it most because it’s also about the loved ones you miss on such holidays it’s about learning to love you’re self and asking for help 💛 it’s about being scared and depression but most of all of finding you’re best friend flaws and all 💛 it’s a must read
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