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Holiday Romances
Claus and Effect
Two strangers who couldn’t be more opposite find themselves on an unexpected cross-country road trip days before Christmas where whatever can go wrong, does.
He’s an Army Ranger.
She’s a baker.
He’s organized and ridged.
She’s messy and carefree.
He doesn’t do relationships.
She’s following her heart.
His family chat blows up his phone.
She just buried her last living relative.
The holiday season doesn’t seem so jolly as they venture from one mode of transportation to the next. But, they have to become friends and rely on each other if they’re going to survive all the obstacles thrown their way.
As the miles grow shorter, vulnerabilities are shared, and by the time they reach their destination, neither one of them is sure what they really want for Christmas anymore.
He’s an Army Ranger.
She’s a baker.
He’s organized and ridged.
She’s messy and carefree.
He doesn’t do relationships.
She’s following her heart.
His family chat blows up his phone.
She just buried her last living relative.
The holiday season doesn’t seem so jolly as they venture from one mode of transportation to the next. But, they have to become friends and rely on each other if they’re going to survive all the obstacles thrown their way.
As the miles grow shorter, vulnerabilities are shared, and by the time they reach their destination, neither one of them is sure what they really want for Christmas anymore.
Audiobook
First published November 14, 2023
427 people are currently reading
6460 people want to read
About the author
Piper Rayne
212 books7,255 followersPiper Rayne is a USA Today Bestselling author duo. Our goal is to bring you romance stories that have "Heartwarming Humor With a Side of Sizzle" (okay...you caught us, that's our tagline). A little about us... We both have kindle’s full of one-clickable books. We're both married to husbands who drive us to drink. We're both chauffeurs to our kids. Most of all, we love hot heroes and quirky heroines that make us laugh, and we hope you do, too.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,614 reviews
December 17, 2025
╰┈➤ 3 stars!
this book definitely turned around because i wasn’t expecting to actually find it more on the enjoyable side, given that some parts infuriated me.
୨ৎ tessa. a baker from new york who decided to take the leap and go to portland because a psychic told her something about founding love. i literally thought that this woman was so unlucky because of all the things happened to her in the airport, but it really did turn around for her which i’m so glad of.
୨ৎ tre. he went through a lot as a teenager, that’s why he decided to be an army ranger. to be far from the people he thought he was friends with but actually wasn’t. it took such a toll on him and it was so sad because of that happening, his life took a turn that was truly unexpected.
overall, this story wasn’t bad but i don’t think it’s something that i’d remember for a long time! it was still good because a simple story is what we all need at times.
・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・
pre-read:
idk about you but i’m loving all these piper rayne’s christmas books! 💗🎄 it’s making me more festive than i already am!
this book definitely turned around because i wasn’t expecting to actually find it more on the enjoyable side, given that some parts infuriated me.
୨ৎ tessa. a baker from new york who decided to take the leap and go to portland because a psychic told her something about founding love. i literally thought that this woman was so unlucky because of all the things happened to her in the airport, but it really did turn around for her which i’m so glad of.
୨ৎ tre. he went through a lot as a teenager, that’s why he decided to be an army ranger. to be far from the people he thought he was friends with but actually wasn’t. it took such a toll on him and it was so sad because of that happening, his life took a turn that was truly unexpected.
overall, this story wasn’t bad but i don’t think it’s something that i’d remember for a long time! it was still good because a simple story is what we all need at times.
・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・。・
pre-read:
idk about you but i’m loving all these piper rayne’s christmas books! 💗🎄 it’s making me more festive than i already am!
December 1, 2024
This was exactly what I needed! It’s not going to change your life or win any literary awards, but if you’re looking for something light, funny, and full of holiday cheer, you need to read this asap.
I wanted a book that would make me laugh and get me in the Christmas spirit without making me think too hard, and Claus and Effect DELIVERED. The characters are hilarious (and not in that cringe way), the Christmas vibes are chef’s kiss, and I actually giggled a few times. If you’re like me and just want something fun to read with a cup of hot cocoa, this is it.
I wanted a book that would make me laugh and get me in the Christmas spirit without making me think too hard, and Claus and Effect DELIVERED. The characters are hilarious (and not in that cringe way), the Christmas vibes are chef’s kiss, and I actually giggled a few times. If you’re like me and just want something fun to read with a cup of hot cocoa, this is it.
December 18, 2025
This was a cute, quick Christmas read. The character development was so-so and the ending seemed really rushed, but it ticked the box for an entertaining holiday read 🎄
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November 15, 2023Now Available!
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Add to Goodreads: https://bit.ly/3mRbZnV
January 11, 2026
Was a fun one. And duet narration!! Review up soon
Prereading notes:
Am I late or just getting a head start on my holiday reading? 😂🎅
Prereading notes:
Am I late or just getting a head start on my holiday reading? 😂🎅
December 11, 2023
This book did nothing for me...
The pacing was off, the characters weren't well developped, it lacked depth. Even though it tried to give us background, I didn't connect with the characters and didn't care much for the story, it actually took me a while to finish it because I wasn't into it.
Plus, they were instantly into each other. The "hating" each other was only them being idiots and annoying one another. It took a while for them to get together, that part wasn't instant but I didn't feel the build-up, or the tension.
It was a meh read for me.
The pacing was off, the characters weren't well developped, it lacked depth. Even though it tried to give us background, I didn't connect with the characters and didn't care much for the story, it actually took me a while to finish it because I wasn't into it.
Plus, they were instantly into each other. The "hating" each other was only them being idiots and annoying one another. It took a while for them to get together, that part wasn't instant but I didn't feel the build-up, or the tension.
It was a meh read for me.
October 15, 2025
My first by Piper Rayne.
Full of Christmas vibes, there's even a town named Christmas and people visit all year round.
Two POVs.
Hilarious situations.
Amazing and deliriously funny banter between the MCs.
Enemies to friends to lovers.
Sunshine / Grumpy.
Just one bed.
She falls first.
Found family not by blood.
Tessa, a baker, lost her bakery in New York, her parents died when she was 9 years-old, and her great-uncle, who raised her, just passed away. And she's broke.
In a party a psychic tells her she must go west to find a man with dark hair, tell him what she feels, because he's her soulmate.
And she thinks it's Carter she dated a few times and had invited her to spend Christmas with his family.
Andrew, her best friend Kenzie's husband, offers her a first-class ticket to Portland and she's on her way.
But from the moment she arrives at the airport she keeps bumping into this hot, smug GI Joe, ending in both having the same place and her moving to coach.
She hates him!
There she becomes instantly friends with her seatmates Gladys, a grandmother, and Polly, a very young and very pregnant woman.
Tre, the GI Joe, an Army Ranger, 32, first name Abner, feels a bit unease because the check-in attendant offered him a first-class ticket when it was already sold.
He had noticed her before. Messy, carefree, lost, but questioning if he really was a military man? That was too much!
But then Polly starts to have contractions, she lied on how long she was pregnant, and Tre, who was a medic, delivers a baby girl!
The plane stops at Minneapolis and as there's a snow and windstorm coming in 10 minutes time, they have to wait until morning.
Some of the passengers go to an hotel but Tessa and Tre sleep in the terminal.
Tre likes her: she gives as good as she gets. He's enjoying the banter!
When Tessa wakes up the terminal is shut down, all flights canceled and she is alone.
She goes to the car rental where Tre is having the last one leaving her behind.
But it so happens that his license it's expired and her credit card is declined, having no choice but to travel together in a small car, 27 hours to Portland.
She doesn't know how she's going to handle confined with a man who drives her insane as much as she lusts for him.
He's so stubborn, but when he smiles he's absolutely gorgeous, and he could be in a fitness magazine!
She must not forget she's travelling across country for another man.
They alternate the driving and she always wants to make a detour, convincing him to stop at the Eggnog Festival for one hour.
He wins the contest, they share a bed at the Jingle Bell B&B, have a row with the police officers who towed their car, Tessa is arrested, and Tre makes a deal with the judge if he works on his day off they'll be Santa and Mrs Claus at another contest, were they dress wet suits and keep plunging on a pit of cold water.
And they're on their way again!
She tells him her story, he tells her when he left home at 18 years-old but not why.
They're not hating each other anymore, he stopped being grumpy and not so distant, she likes that, and he likes her giggling happy, but feels her sadness and hopelesness.
They become friends!
He's a protector, never been in love with someone else, Tessa being the first woman he desires to grow closer to and she doesn't want her time with him to end too!
The car broke in Helena, Montana, and they take the train to Portland.
In the 4 days since they first met in the plane, Tessa fell hard for him and it seems Tre feels the same way though he doesn't do relationships.
He has trust issues with women from his past and knowing who Carter is puts him even more off balance.
But this is an HEA and with the help of his family and Tessa he'll get there!
Full of Christmas vibes, there's even a town named Christmas and people visit all year round.
Two POVs.
Hilarious situations.
Amazing and deliriously funny banter between the MCs.
Enemies to friends to lovers.
Sunshine / Grumpy.
Just one bed.
She falls first.
Found family not by blood.
Tessa, a baker, lost her bakery in New York, her parents died when she was 9 years-old, and her great-uncle, who raised her, just passed away. And she's broke.
In a party a psychic tells her she must go west to find a man with dark hair, tell him what she feels, because he's her soulmate.
And she thinks it's Carter she dated a few times and had invited her to spend Christmas with his family.
Andrew, her best friend Kenzie's husband, offers her a first-class ticket to Portland and she's on her way.
But from the moment she arrives at the airport she keeps bumping into this hot, smug GI Joe, ending in both having the same place and her moving to coach.
She hates him!
There she becomes instantly friends with her seatmates Gladys, a grandmother, and Polly, a very young and very pregnant woman.
Tre, the GI Joe, an Army Ranger, 32, first name Abner, feels a bit unease because the check-in attendant offered him a first-class ticket when it was already sold.
He had noticed her before. Messy, carefree, lost, but questioning if he really was a military man? That was too much!
But then Polly starts to have contractions, she lied on how long she was pregnant, and Tre, who was a medic, delivers a baby girl!
The plane stops at Minneapolis and as there's a snow and windstorm coming in 10 minutes time, they have to wait until morning.
Some of the passengers go to an hotel but Tessa and Tre sleep in the terminal.
Tre likes her: she gives as good as she gets. He's enjoying the banter!
When Tessa wakes up the terminal is shut down, all flights canceled and she is alone.
She goes to the car rental where Tre is having the last one leaving her behind.
But it so happens that his license it's expired and her credit card is declined, having no choice but to travel together in a small car, 27 hours to Portland.
She doesn't know how she's going to handle confined with a man who drives her insane as much as she lusts for him.
He's so stubborn, but when he smiles he's absolutely gorgeous, and he could be in a fitness magazine!
She must not forget she's travelling across country for another man.
They alternate the driving and she always wants to make a detour, convincing him to stop at the Eggnog Festival for one hour.
He wins the contest, they share a bed at the Jingle Bell B&B, have a row with the police officers who towed their car, Tessa is arrested, and Tre makes a deal with the judge if he works on his day off they'll be Santa and Mrs Claus at another contest, were they dress wet suits and keep plunging on a pit of cold water.
And they're on their way again!
She tells him her story, he tells her when he left home at 18 years-old but not why.
They're not hating each other anymore, he stopped being grumpy and not so distant, she likes that, and he likes her giggling happy, but feels her sadness and hopelesness.
They become friends!
He's a protector, never been in love with someone else, Tessa being the first woman he desires to grow closer to and she doesn't want her time with him to end too!
The car broke in Helena, Montana, and they take the train to Portland.
In the 4 days since they first met in the plane, Tessa fell hard for him and it seems Tre feels the same way though he doesn't do relationships.
He has trust issues with women from his past and knowing who Carter is puts him even more off balance.
But this is an HEA and with the help of his family and Tessa he'll get there!
December 15, 2023
3.5⭐️
This was a cute holiday romance. I loved Piper Rayne’s previous holiday romance so I was super excited to read this one.
The forced proximity on the road trip made for such good tension between Tessa and Tre. The grumpy/sunshine trope created a great dynamic and made it even more satisfying when the characters started to open up to one another.
The writing was easy to get into but it lacked depth for me in some areas. It felt a little bland and like it could have used a bit more polishing. The romance was fun and spicy and the characters were engaging.
This was a quick and festive romance that will get you right into the holiday spirit!
Thank you to Valentine PR for the eARC!
This was a cute holiday romance. I loved Piper Rayne’s previous holiday romance so I was super excited to read this one.
The forced proximity on the road trip made for such good tension between Tessa and Tre. The grumpy/sunshine trope created a great dynamic and made it even more satisfying when the characters started to open up to one another.
The writing was easy to get into but it lacked depth for me in some areas. It felt a little bland and like it could have used a bit more polishing. The romance was fun and spicy and the characters were engaging.
This was a quick and festive romance that will get you right into the holiday spirit!
Thank you to Valentine PR for the eARC!
December 3, 2023
Loved this book! The heroine was so adorable, one of the sweetest heroines I read about in a long time. When meeting the hero he seemed like an ass. But with all the banter and getting to know each other, he became one of my book boyfriends. I loved the fact that this book was over the top Christmassy, but had enough character development. It wasn’t superficial and just a read to get you in the Christmas spirit. I loved reading their journey, literally their way back home with all the obstacles along the way, but also their own road to where they want to be in life and in relationships. It was such a fantastic romcom, so many funny moments, great characters and so much coziness.
Safety:
Safe with exception, because heroine goes to visit her ex to rekindle their romance. She went on 3 dates with this guy, but didn’t sleep with him. So to me it didn’t seem that serious to fly over the country for. The OM should’ve bothered me, but he didn’t because of the above. But it does cause jealousy and uncertainty with the hero. No cheating or sex with OP. No OW/OM scenes. Hero not a manwhore. Heroine not a virgin. No mention of how long both are celibate. Since hero came from a mission, I believe it would be quite a while for him. He’s not the relationship guy, only had ONS or two nighters. Heroine went on dates, but is not the ONS kinda gal so unlikely she slept with (all of) them.
Safety:
Safe with exception, because heroine goes to visit her ex to rekindle their romance. She went on 3 dates with this guy, but didn’t sleep with him. So to me it didn’t seem that serious to fly over the country for. The OM should’ve bothered me, but he didn’t because of the above. But it does cause jealousy and uncertainty with the hero. No cheating or sex with OP. No OW/OM scenes. Hero not a manwhore. Heroine not a virgin. No mention of how long both are celibate. Since hero came from a mission, I believe it would be quite a while for him. He’s not the relationship guy, only had ONS or two nighters. Heroine went on dates, but is not the ONS kinda gal so unlikely she slept with (all of) them.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2023
Claus and Effect, a Christmas standalone, by Piper Rayne-
My review is 5 stars!!!
I don’t usually read Christmas novels BUT, I love Piper’s novels so I had to see if she could change my mind and, this novel is everything a Christmas RomCom should be! There were many times this story had me laughing out loud, it is such a good read!
The enemies-to-lovers and found-family tropes hit strong in this story. Tre and Tessa have the most absurd meetcute, ever. They initially meet on an airplane while traveling during the holidays and end up on the most bizzare, cross-country trip, together. Tessa is such an impulsive, yet lovable FMC. Tre is the all-business Army Ranger, who might die if he cracked a smile. Parts of their journey had me literally laughing out loud. The side of the highway scene, the chugging contest and the dunk tank were some of my favorite hilarious moments.
AND THAT PLOT TWIST!! Never saw it coming!!
Aside from the comedic relief, this is also an adorable love story. There are some very tender moments that really touch the heart. There is quite a bit of Christmas magic within these pages. The support characters were so well written. They all played an important role and made this story come alive.
The only complaint that I have is that I wish there were more!! I did appreciate the bonus chapter after their happily-ever-after. I now have to go and read Piper’s other Christmas standalone because there is some character crossover and I need to know!! Piper definitely changed my view on Christmas novels with this book.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
My review is 5 stars!!!
I don’t usually read Christmas novels BUT, I love Piper’s novels so I had to see if she could change my mind and, this novel is everything a Christmas RomCom should be! There were many times this story had me laughing out loud, it is such a good read!
The enemies-to-lovers and found-family tropes hit strong in this story. Tre and Tessa have the most absurd meetcute, ever. They initially meet on an airplane while traveling during the holidays and end up on the most bizzare, cross-country trip, together. Tessa is such an impulsive, yet lovable FMC. Tre is the all-business Army Ranger, who might die if he cracked a smile. Parts of their journey had me literally laughing out loud. The side of the highway scene, the chugging contest and the dunk tank were some of my favorite hilarious moments.
AND THAT PLOT TWIST!! Never saw it coming!!
Aside from the comedic relief, this is also an adorable love story. There are some very tender moments that really touch the heart. There is quite a bit of Christmas magic within these pages. The support characters were so well written. They all played an important role and made this story come alive.
The only complaint that I have is that I wish there were more!! I did appreciate the bonus chapter after their happily-ever-after. I now have to go and read Piper’s other Christmas standalone because there is some character crossover and I need to know!! Piper definitely changed my view on Christmas novels with this book.
I received an advance reader copy and am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 8, 2023
“I smile back because at least now, I know how love is supposed to feel.” 🎄💌🍪🎀
CLAUS & EFFECT (arc) REVIEW
4.5/5 ★’s
•
•
•
THIS BOOK! was the absolute most adorable start off to my christmas book marathon for this year! Tessa & Tre, the absolute most perfect chromas couple and grumpy x sunshine love story! Piper Rayne’s writing is absolutely ADDICTING! i read this book in less than 2 days because her writing is so fast paced, so fresh & so comfort cozy for this holiday season! Between the relatable holiday airport struggles & the infectious tension between our two main characters it’s hard to not be absolutely obsessed with army boy tee & soft girl tessa 🫶🏼
our fmc, Tessa is the absolute most heart warming girl ever! a struggling baker with a tough past just trying to follow what her heart (and physic?) tells her to do. Having nothing to lose means nothing to hurt for right? But in the midst of going across the country in search of hopeful love, she runs into her complete opposite, dark cloud, army boy Tre 🏹 with her soft cookie dough heart, her endless love for christmas and all the love she has to give to the world despite the world giving her zero, Tessa left me absolutely in love & made me feel so at home with her sunshine demeanor during christmas time where hope, faith and most of all endless love is what carries you with the most holiday spirit! 🎄
our mmc, the grinchy Tre is just probably your dream man on the top of your christmas wish list! brooding exterior, absolute cinnamon bun interior? check. skilled at everything, even delivering babies on planes? check. finding a way to brood over Tessa’s love for christmas but find it super her cute on her? also, CHECK. Tre absolutely stole my heart, his determination to reach his family & return them all the love they’ve missed out on for so many years is something so pure & wholesome. coming from a dark past where he has forced love out of his vocabulary, is something so contrasting to Tessa’s demeanor, being someone who despite the lack of love the universe has given her she still has so much to offer. Tre’s protective & all loving demeanor over his family, his girl, and the people he loves most had be absolutely in love. Piper rayne couldn’t have possibly written a better winner for the annual egg nog contest (if you know, you KNOW)
This book absolutely was the perfect mix of romance and christmas! every page had me squealing & giggling my feet in my christmas sockies. absolutely perfect to read with a cup of hot chocolate, a nice fire going, and OF COURSE some christmas sugar cookies (if you know, you know!) Claus & effect will be released just in perfect time for the holiday season on November 14th, and I absolutely can’t wait for you all to dive into the perfectly wrapped present! 🎀🎄
CLAUS & EFFECT (arc) REVIEW
4.5/5 ★’s
•
•
•
THIS BOOK! was the absolute most adorable start off to my christmas book marathon for this year! Tessa & Tre, the absolute most perfect chromas couple and grumpy x sunshine love story! Piper Rayne’s writing is absolutely ADDICTING! i read this book in less than 2 days because her writing is so fast paced, so fresh & so comfort cozy for this holiday season! Between the relatable holiday airport struggles & the infectious tension between our two main characters it’s hard to not be absolutely obsessed with army boy tee & soft girl tessa 🫶🏼
our fmc, Tessa is the absolute most heart warming girl ever! a struggling baker with a tough past just trying to follow what her heart (and physic?) tells her to do. Having nothing to lose means nothing to hurt for right? But in the midst of going across the country in search of hopeful love, she runs into her complete opposite, dark cloud, army boy Tre 🏹 with her soft cookie dough heart, her endless love for christmas and all the love she has to give to the world despite the world giving her zero, Tessa left me absolutely in love & made me feel so at home with her sunshine demeanor during christmas time where hope, faith and most of all endless love is what carries you with the most holiday spirit! 🎄
our mmc, the grinchy Tre is just probably your dream man on the top of your christmas wish list! brooding exterior, absolute cinnamon bun interior? check. skilled at everything, even delivering babies on planes? check. finding a way to brood over Tessa’s love for christmas but find it super her cute on her? also, CHECK. Tre absolutely stole my heart, his determination to reach his family & return them all the love they’ve missed out on for so many years is something so pure & wholesome. coming from a dark past where he has forced love out of his vocabulary, is something so contrasting to Tessa’s demeanor, being someone who despite the lack of love the universe has given her she still has so much to offer. Tre’s protective & all loving demeanor over his family, his girl, and the people he loves most had be absolutely in love. Piper rayne couldn’t have possibly written a better winner for the annual egg nog contest (if you know, you KNOW)
This book absolutely was the perfect mix of romance and christmas! every page had me squealing & giggling my feet in my christmas sockies. absolutely perfect to read with a cup of hot chocolate, a nice fire going, and OF COURSE some christmas sugar cookies (if you know, you know!) Claus & effect will be released just in perfect time for the holiday season on November 14th, and I absolutely can’t wait for you all to dive into the perfectly wrapped present! 🎀🎄
December 3, 2025
I am loving this short, sweet and spicy holiday reads. This one was super hot. Adored the chemistry and set up. What a fun meet cute 🥰 when they finally admitted their feelings for each other i just wanted to scream “YES “. Love these two together.
December 8, 2023
The audio was a quick listen while I worked. That’s the only plus. The story was so disjointed and you had to suspend belief… a lot. The chemistry was lacking and it felt like a very hallmark-esque type romcom. Very vanilla couple with silly hijinks. Then once the MCs get together the dirty talk took over… so much so that it was distracting. Don’t get me wrong, I absolutely love spicy books but it felt so weird and over the top. Also… stupid third act break up.
dnf
December 22, 2023Trying recs, this one from dear @Helen✨
Didn't click for me :(
DNF 20%
Didn't click for me :(
DNF 20%
January 3, 2025
Basic. This book did not hold my interest. I allowed several days go by in between reading it. This was the first book I have read by this author. Will try again with another book.
December 8, 2023
Great Holiday Read
I love reading Holiday Romances this time of year; it really helps get me in the mood for all the craziness that is about to come, and CLAUS AND EFFECT was the perfect book to do the trick. Not only did it have many laugh-out-loud moments, but it also took us on a road trip, which I adore.
What happens when Tessa takes off for a cross-country trip to find the guy she thinks got away? Well, a journey of heartfelt moments, holiday shenanigans, and a comedy of errors. But more importantly, it's a trip that brings two strangers, total opposites, together, and they find that there is more than getting to their destination on time; there is also the journey that brings two people together for a reason. A reason that cannot be denied.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCaE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
I love reading Holiday Romances this time of year; it really helps get me in the mood for all the craziness that is about to come, and CLAUS AND EFFECT was the perfect book to do the trick. Not only did it have many laugh-out-loud moments, but it also took us on a road trip, which I adore.
What happens when Tessa takes off for a cross-country trip to find the guy she thinks got away? Well, a journey of heartfelt moments, holiday shenanigans, and a comedy of errors. But more importantly, it's a trip that brings two strangers, total opposites, together, and they find that there is more than getting to their destination on time; there is also the journey that brings two people together for a reason. A reason that cannot be denied.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCaE
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
August 11, 2025
Well that was freaking adorable. I loved these two. The banter and just overall chemistry bounced right off the page. I’m a sucker for a hero who falls first and hard and gets growly, we have all this here. I had a feeling I knew where this was going, but the twist was even better than I was expecting even. I loved it.
November 12, 2023
Definitely not my favorite by Piper Rayne, I wasn't a huge fan of this strangers to lovers holiday romance. The chemistry between the MCs felt a little flat for me and I just wasn't all that interested in the story as a whole. Good on audio but not one I would recommend as a must-read this season.
November 16, 2023
4.5 stars
Super freaking cute holiday romance. I was giggling and smiling so hard listening to this audio. I would have liked a tad more steam, but I ate this one up!
Great narrators! Can be read as a standalone!
Super freaking cute holiday romance. I was giggling and smiling so hard listening to this audio. I would have liked a tad more steam, but I ate this one up!
Great narrators! Can be read as a standalone!
December 16, 2023
🎧🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧🎧
Clause and Effect is a cute string of mishaps that take our couple from one setback to another which they turn into fun shenanigans that will make you laugh and warm your heart! The story had a lot of spark until it didn’t and honestly, it was all due to the ridiculous brother conflict that was thrown into the story at the last minute. I’m not going to detail my take on ridiculous miscommunication nonsense or grown adults carrying conflict on their backs from decades past because, well, #twitchy LOL GAH, these two spent close to 6 hours building something just to blow it all up AND fix the blow-up in the last 45 minutes. *blink* Adults not adulting is not my thing. #sorrynotsorry (also, parents revealing anything about their children that they know is a sensitive subject to an almost complete stranger is … *blink*)
As you can read, the story turned on a dime for me and the spark I was feeling very quickly dwindled down and I hated almost every single minute of the *end* of this story :(
Sidebar Thought: Soooooo, I’ve only ever rec’d this once before, but, if you have yet to enjoy this story and its predecessor, Single and Read to Jingle, I highly recommend that you read this story first. I know they were published the other way around, but this story’s spark and general captivation is not nearly as explosive as its predecessor and because of that, you might not enjoy this story as much as you would if you didn’t have Single and Read to Jingle as the metric to compare to. This is an absolute me experience and has very little effect on my overall enjoyment of my experience listening to this story, and it wasn’t until I finished listening to Single and Ready to Jingle last night that I had my revelation! Okay, those are my 5₵, do with them what you will! :)
Clause and Effect is a cute string of mishaps that take our couple from one setback to another which they turn into fun shenanigans that will make you laugh and warm your heart! The story had a lot of spark until it didn’t and honestly, it was all due to the ridiculous brother conflict that was thrown into the story at the last minute. I’m not going to detail my take on ridiculous miscommunication nonsense or grown adults carrying conflict on their backs from decades past because, well, #twitchy LOL GAH, these two spent close to 6 hours building something just to blow it all up AND fix the blow-up in the last 45 minutes. *blink* Adults not adulting is not my thing. #sorrynotsorry (also, parents revealing anything about their children that they know is a sensitive subject to an almost complete stranger is … *blink*)
As you can read, the story turned on a dime for me and the spark I was feeling very quickly dwindled down and I hated almost every single minute of the *end* of this story :(
Sidebar Thought: Soooooo, I’ve only ever rec’d this once before, but, if you have yet to enjoy this story and its predecessor, Single and Read to Jingle, I highly recommend that you read this story first. I know they were published the other way around, but this story’s spark and general captivation is not nearly as explosive as its predecessor and because of that, you might not enjoy this story as much as you would if you didn’t have Single and Read to Jingle as the metric to compare to. This is an absolute me experience and has very little effect on my overall enjoyment of my experience listening to this story, and it wasn’t until I finished listening to Single and Ready to Jingle last night that I had my revelation! Okay, those are my 5₵, do with them what you will! :)
December 20, 2024
I actually really enjoyed this! Nice little Christmas romance to get you in the holiday mood
December 5, 2025
Claus and Effect
3✨
3✨
November 5, 2023
Enemies to lovers, small town, forced proximity, one bed, found family... give me it all wrapped up in a bow and delivered inside of a Christmas book! This was the epitome of Hallmark-esk vibes with just a splash of spice, some slow burn, angst and cute and funny banter! Following these two characters around during their travels was hoot! Anything and everything that could go wrong, did! Everything keeping them together also did! So much of this was fun, just the little quirks of the small towns and the people they met. The banter between them alone was great! Falling in love is the process was the icing on the cake. Not to mention his family, they were amazing and funny as well! Throw in the Christmas season and it was a good time! Highly recommending to pick this up this holiday season!!
December 10, 2024
This was a fun story about opposites attract holiday story! Lots of laughs and pretty good spice. Even if it felt just a little bit of rushed love. Also, the audio books are duet style. For being the first read from this author, I enjoyed it and look forward to reading more!
December 20, 2023
This book opens with her getting a tarot reading from a psychic so obviously you should read it 😁
It’s a super fluffy, quick, spicy, Christmas romance.
The FMC is told by the psychic that she needs to make this cross country trip to connect with the love of her life. According to the psychic, if she doesn’t, she’ll end up alone and won’t find love.
She takes a flight across the country and basically everything goes wrong in traveling to prevent her from reaching her destination.
Along the way she meets a very grumpy stranger and the two of them need to work together to reach their destination.
It’s goofy, fun and very light hearted.
The part on the plane and a little competition they find themselves stuck in are my favorite parts.
Side note, the MMC is also in the military, but that wasn’t a huge part of the story in my opinion. It’s mentioned several times, but I don’t think I would necessarily call this a military romance. I hope that makes sense.
It’s a super fluffy, quick, spicy, Christmas romance.
The FMC is told by the psychic that she needs to make this cross country trip to connect with the love of her life. According to the psychic, if she doesn’t, she’ll end up alone and won’t find love.
She takes a flight across the country and basically everything goes wrong in traveling to prevent her from reaching her destination.
Along the way she meets a very grumpy stranger and the two of them need to work together to reach their destination.
It’s goofy, fun and very light hearted.
The part on the plane and a little competition they find themselves stuck in are my favorite parts.
Side note, the MMC is also in the military, but that wasn’t a huge part of the story in my opinion. It’s mentioned several times, but I don’t think I would necessarily call this a military romance. I hope that makes sense.
November 17, 2023
What an entertaining book! The Meet-Cute was memorable and kept me turning pages. Claus and Effect is a book that will make you feel like you are watching a Hallmark movie. Tre and Tessa went from wanting to throw each other off a plane to growing a genuine love connection in a small amount of time. The tension between the two was electrifying and the slow burn was sensational.
The journey that the two characters went on wasn’t only physical, but also emotional and mental. This story reads well and will make you feel good. If you only read one-holiday book this season, then make it this one.
The journey that the two characters went on wasn’t only physical, but also emotional and mental. This story reads well and will make you feel good. If you only read one-holiday book this season, then make it this one.
December 7, 2023
Immediately no. Cringy dialogue. Flat characters. And the spicy scenes - the word choices were catastrophic.
December 21, 2023
The characters are fun and I fell in love with them. Super cute Christmas novel. A little bit of spice in sprinkled in and lots of sugar ❤️
January 10, 2024
Audiobook Rating: 3/5 ⭐
I had never read Piper Rayne before reading Claus and Effect, and I had no idea this was an author duo! They truly made the entire book feel so seamless that I thought it was just one author so bravo to them! This was a sweet holiday romance with a bit of spice, so it was basically a Hallmark movie on steroids. The forced proximity was a nice addition, and I really enjoyed the banter and tension between Tessa and Tre. There was also a grumpy/sunshine trope in here, and I don't think I have to tell you who was which one. 😉
The audiobook is where things got a little dicey for me, and while I loved Brooke Bloomingdale (WHY does she sound exactly like Julia Whelan?!) Lee Samuel's narration was pretty lacking for me. This is a duet narration, so both narrators are talking to each other as opposed to going chapter by chapter, and I think Samuel really dropped the ball as far as cues go. His narration was pretty stilted and in areas where the book literally says he whispers, he sounds like he's shouting. For this reason, I think reading may be the way to go, but Bloomingdale really shined, and I was glad I got to hear it for her narration. Claus and Effect is a fun holiday romance with a touch of steam and it was a really quick read making it perfect to fit into the holiday season.
I had never read Piper Rayne before reading Claus and Effect, and I had no idea this was an author duo! They truly made the entire book feel so seamless that I thought it was just one author so bravo to them! This was a sweet holiday romance with a bit of spice, so it was basically a Hallmark movie on steroids. The forced proximity was a nice addition, and I really enjoyed the banter and tension between Tessa and Tre. There was also a grumpy/sunshine trope in here, and I don't think I have to tell you who was which one. 😉
The audiobook is where things got a little dicey for me, and while I loved Brooke Bloomingdale (WHY does she sound exactly like Julia Whelan?!) Lee Samuel's narration was pretty lacking for me. This is a duet narration, so both narrators are talking to each other as opposed to going chapter by chapter, and I think Samuel really dropped the ball as far as cues go. His narration was pretty stilted and in areas where the book literally says he whispers, he sounds like he's shouting. For this reason, I think reading may be the way to go, but Bloomingdale really shined, and I was glad I got to hear it for her narration. Claus and Effect is a fun holiday romance with a touch of steam and it was a really quick read making it perfect to fit into the holiday season.
December 19, 2024
Talk about a road trip from hell. Planes, trains AND automobiles for sure. A cute story that wasn’t about Christmas but took place during it. Loved it.
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