What do you think?
Rate this book
Winterville #1
Welcome to Winterville
He's the kind of man who always gets what he wants. But this time she's going to make him work for it...
When a ruthless company buys Holly Winter’s small home town, she’s determined to stop them.
But then she comes face to face with the CEO. Josh Gerber is handsome, smooth, and disgustingly successful. He’s also the man that Holly spent a night with eight years ago. And now he’s back to steal the home she’s always loved.
If anybody can stand up to him, Holly can. She’s clever, single-minded, and most of all, she understands his weaknesses. She has the same ones, after all.
But the more she fights him, the stronger the attraction between them grows. And before long, their arguments are ending in deliciously hot, stolen kisses that make her forget that Josh is supposed to be her enemy.
Holly may be able to save Winterville, but will she have to sacrifice her heart in the process?
It’s A Wonderful Life meets The Hating Game in this fun and feisty festive romance.
When a ruthless company buys Holly Winter’s small home town, she’s determined to stop them.
But then she comes face to face with the CEO. Josh Gerber is handsome, smooth, and disgustingly successful. He’s also the man that Holly spent a night with eight years ago. And now he’s back to steal the home she’s always loved.
If anybody can stand up to him, Holly can. She’s clever, single-minded, and most of all, she understands his weaknesses. She has the same ones, after all.
But the more she fights him, the stronger the attraction between them grows. And before long, their arguments are ending in deliciously hot, stolen kisses that make her forget that Josh is supposed to be her enemy.
Holly may be able to save Winterville, but will she have to sacrifice her heart in the process?
It’s A Wonderful Life meets The Hating Game in this fun and feisty festive romance.
310 pages, Paperback
First published September 24, 2021
1608 people are currently reading
5081 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Elks
70 books2,223 followersCarrie Elks is an international bestselling author of traditionally-published and self-published novels. Her books are sweet yet sexy contemporary small town romance stories. You can find her in all these places:
Website:https://www.carrieelks.com
Amazon: http://author.to/CarrieElksAuthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieElksAu...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carri...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrie.elks/
Website:https://www.carrieelks.com
Amazon: http://author.to/CarrieElksAuthor
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CarrieElksAu...
Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/carri...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carrie.elks/
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews
September 29, 2021
Christmas came early this year in the form of this delightful story! I loved everything about this second-chance, small-town, enemies-to-lovers story.
The creation of the Winterville evokes images of a "Dollywood-esque" backdrop to host a fantastic cast of characters. Two generations of Winter family members are at odds with each other over the future of the town and what's to become of it; a ski-village or to maintain it's charm as a music entertainment and all things Christmas town. So, Holly Winter returns to Winterville to help save the family legacy, just as Josh Gerber rolls into it with intent to bulldoze buildings and build ski-runs. It turns out these two shared a moment years ago, and there's no lack in their previous affections. Although they are opposite sides, they decide to put aside their differences and explore what could have been and what it might be.
Every word sparked joy and every interaction between Holly and Josh showcased some serious chemistry. They are suited so perfectly for each other and I'm not sure if I've ever rooted so hard for two characters to "work-out" their differences. The dialogue is witty and I loved seeing the family, the younger generation, work magic to find a solution, a compromise of sorts. Holly and Josh , as a couple, kick off a great new series from a favorite author and I am so looking forward to Everleys and Dylans story. 5 Stars and recommendation!
Don't miss the prequel novella, Another must read A kiss for Christmas
The creation of the Winterville evokes images of a "Dollywood-esque" backdrop to host a fantastic cast of characters. Two generations of Winter family members are at odds with each other over the future of the town and what's to become of it; a ski-village or to maintain it's charm as a music entertainment and all things Christmas town. So, Holly Winter returns to Winterville to help save the family legacy, just as Josh Gerber rolls into it with intent to bulldoze buildings and build ski-runs. It turns out these two shared a moment years ago, and there's no lack in their previous affections. Although they are opposite sides, they decide to put aside their differences and explore what could have been and what it might be.
Every word sparked joy and every interaction between Holly and Josh showcased some serious chemistry. They are suited so perfectly for each other and I'm not sure if I've ever rooted so hard for two characters to "work-out" their differences. The dialogue is witty and I loved seeing the family, the younger generation, work magic to find a solution, a compromise of sorts. Holly and Josh , as a couple, kick off a great new series from a favorite author and I am so looking forward to Everleys and Dylans story. 5 Stars and recommendation!
Don't miss the prequel novella, Another must read A kiss for Christmas
November 3, 2021
My first holiday read of the season, and its lovely cover welcomed me with open arms. A new-to-me-author whose writing style is really appealing and made this one a beautiful package. I found myself lost in the magical delights surrounding Winterville, along with the Hallmark-esque setting and storyline.
Eight years have gone by since Holly shared one snowy winter's night with a stranded traveler in her little cabin in the woods. The next morning Joshua Gerber headed off towards the bright lights and big business deals. Their second go-round comes as a total surprise for them both. Now he’s 32 and she’s 28, both single and still very attracted to each other. But, of course, true love never seems to run smoothly – and even the holidays can’t seem to foil Scrooge’s business dealings.
But just like with Hallmark movies, you know there’s going to be that sparkling happily-ever-after ending delivered by Santa on Christmas Eve.
December 28, 2021
Favorite Quotes:
“I thought about buying him a personality transplant,” she said, deadpan. “But then I realized he’d have to have a personality to start with.”
She saw the good in everything, even when there was no good to be seen. He had an inkling that if she was Satan’s grandma, she’d go around telling people just how lovely it was that he kept everybody warm.
Oh my, the woman was a human dynamo. She managed to persuade Oscar Gentry to open his wallet, and everybody says the world will end when those demon moths escape.
My Review:
This was a fun and entertaining start to a new small-town series by one of my favorite authors. I adore Carrie Elks, the gal has mad storytelling skills. I tumbled right into this tale, was invested in the characters from beginning to end, and am eagerly looking forward to delving into the rest of the family’s tangled love lives. Rather than siblings, this series features a unique and engaging grouping of close-knit cousins with wastrels for parents. The storylines were original, amusingly humorous, easy to follow, and held my interest throughout.
“I thought about buying him a personality transplant,” she said, deadpan. “But then I realized he’d have to have a personality to start with.”
She saw the good in everything, even when there was no good to be seen. He had an inkling that if she was Satan’s grandma, she’d go around telling people just how lovely it was that he kept everybody warm.
Oh my, the woman was a human dynamo. She managed to persuade Oscar Gentry to open his wallet, and everybody says the world will end when those demon moths escape.
My Review:
This was a fun and entertaining start to a new small-town series by one of my favorite authors. I adore Carrie Elks, the gal has mad storytelling skills. I tumbled right into this tale, was invested in the characters from beginning to end, and am eagerly looking forward to delving into the rest of the family’s tangled love lives. Rather than siblings, this series features a unique and engaging grouping of close-knit cousins with wastrels for parents. The storylines were original, amusingly humorous, easy to follow, and held my interest throughout.
December 15, 2025
He broke her heart once. Now he’s back to destroy her hometown.
Holly Winter has one goal, and it’s not falling for the billionaire who ghosted her. Winterville – the Christmas town her grandmother dreamed into life – is the only piece of her family she has left, and she’ll do whatever it takes to save it from being bulldozed into a luxury ski resort.
Even if that means going head-to-head with the man who still haunts her dreams.
Josh Gerber doesn’t believe in small towns, fairy lights, or second chances. But when his company buys the failing Winterville estate, he’s forced to face the one woman who makes him question everything.
Loved it. A fun and witty book with low angst and all the cozy Christmas vibes.
I've seen so many posts for this one, and just had to get it.
I absolutely love the writing style and I do love a second chance with billionaire romance trope.
Elks keeps you invested with her characters and keeps your heart beating for these two.
And let's talk about the side characters.
They are brilliant and caring, all having Holly's back.
I'm super excited to read the entire series.
Kerry Kennedy Author
Holly Winter has one goal, and it’s not falling for the billionaire who ghosted her. Winterville – the Christmas town her grandmother dreamed into life – is the only piece of her family she has left, and she’ll do whatever it takes to save it from being bulldozed into a luxury ski resort.
Even if that means going head-to-head with the man who still haunts her dreams.
Josh Gerber doesn’t believe in small towns, fairy lights, or second chances. But when his company buys the failing Winterville estate, he’s forced to face the one woman who makes him question everything.
Loved it. A fun and witty book with low angst and all the cozy Christmas vibes.
I've seen so many posts for this one, and just had to get it.
I absolutely love the writing style and I do love a second chance with billionaire romance trope.
Elks keeps you invested with her characters and keeps your heart beating for these two.
And let's talk about the side characters.
They are brilliant and caring, all having Holly's back.
I'm super excited to read the entire series.
Kerry Kennedy Author
January 3, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
November 26, 2023
A little Hallmark movie turned into a book and I loved every second of it. Josh is just the sweetest, Holly is the coolest and I will definitely be reading about the rest of the Sinter children!
May 2, 2023
Dnf at 30%, I disliked every character.. lazy dialogue and whatnot
December 26, 2022
Wonderful Christmas love story! Full review to come…
December 8, 2025
got me in such a christmassy cozy mood🌟🥰
November 22, 2022
I love a good an cheesy Hallmark Movie but at times I want more spice to it. Welcome to Winterville is exactly what I want! It is just holiday feel good romance we love. This is a Christmas tale as old as 2000, when we got our first Hallmark Christmas Movie! Billionaire Hero, Land Developers buys the town owned by the family of the Heroine. However the Heroine and her Cousins do not want to sell the town. It also just so happens that many years ago, 7 to be exact, the hero spent a night in the small town after a car accident left him stranded. But he never forgot Holly and the magical town of Wintersville.
This book was Christmas and Cheer, Family shenanigans and discord. I loved Josh. He really was a good guy. He realized he had a chance and he did everything he could to take advantage of it to its fullest. The chemistry between these two characters was spot on and I was rooting for their HEA the whole time. The small town antics are just perfect. I love how the town pulls together, some fun and quirky characters. Josh’s Grumpy Grandpa was just the villain this story needed. I really enjoyed this story and I am so excited to read the next book in the series. This is a Holiday Must read that does pass the Buzzing about Romance Die Hard Test!
This book was Christmas and Cheer, Family shenanigans and discord. I loved Josh. He really was a good guy. He realized he had a chance and he did everything he could to take advantage of it to its fullest. The chemistry between these two characters was spot on and I was rooting for their HEA the whole time. The small town antics are just perfect. I love how the town pulls together, some fun and quirky characters. Josh’s Grumpy Grandpa was just the villain this story needed. I really enjoyed this story and I am so excited to read the next book in the series. This is a Holiday Must read that does pass the Buzzing about Romance Die Hard Test!
February 21, 2024
Not my kind of mcs
I like women with much more pride , especially in second chances books and a little more humble heroes… especially when the acted like idiots, but this one is more idiot now than before…
DNF
I’ll get angry if I continue
I like women with much more pride , especially in second chances books and a little more humble heroes… especially when the acted like idiots, but this one is more idiot now than before…
DNF
I’ll get angry if I continue
September 23, 2021
What a great series kick off! Holly and Josh are a terrific couple—witty banter, great chemistry, a shared history they couldn’t deny—all wrapped up with family troubles, a town for sale, and two hearts that need to put each other first in order to make the holidays complete. The author did an amazing job of introducing the rest of the cast and I am looking forward to the rest of the stories. A 5 star holiday read anytime of the year!
June 5, 2024
In Becky we trust.
Perfect, spicy Hallmark Christmas movie in book form.
Perfect, spicy Hallmark Christmas movie in book form.
December 11, 2023
It's a cute book for the winter season. A little slow to start off. It reminds me of a cheesy movie. It was a cute read the characters were not bad. I would check out the other books in the series.
September 27, 2021
I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntarily, honest review of it.
Let me start by saying that although it’s possible to read this book ‘Welcome to Winterville’ without reading the prequel ‘A kiss for Christmas’ first, I would still recommend that you read it before reading this story. Because first of all, it’s free (you just have to sign up to the writer’s newsletter : https://BookHip.com/QXWPRPK ) and secondly, because it’s a lovely, sweet story and it will give you more insight into Josh and Holly’s first meeting eight years ago.
‘Welcome to Winterville’ is a sweet, small mountain town, Christmas romance story. A story where workaholic businessman Josh Gerber and Holly Winter prove that anything can happen during Christmastime. Holly and Josh met eight years ago when Josh got stranded in Winterville for a few days during Christmas. They felt a connection but the timing wasn’t right then for them. Now they meet again and although the chemistry is still there between them, now they are on opposite side of a business deal. Or at least for Josh, it’s only business. For Holly and her cousins, it’s about saving the small mountain town Winterville from destruction. A town that belonged to their deceased grandmother, where they spend most of their childhood. A town that they love very much and where they know every inhabitant. Holly and her cousins know that the chance is small that they can save it but they will try their hardest and fight for it until the end.
Josh has never forgotten Holly and seeing her again brings back some sweet memories and feelings. And with each day that he spends in Winterville and in Holly’s company, Josh finds it harder to remember that it’s only business. Feelings are growing between Josh and Holly but is this the right time or was it never meant to be?
If you love watching Hallmark Christmas movies during the wintertime than this story is for you. Just a warning, this story is a bit steamier than a Hallmark movie. (Something that I loved very much!) ‘Welcome to Winterville is a super sweet story, filled with friendship, love, very light drama, funny banter and snow. The story is told from both POV’s.
I loved both main characters very much. Josh may be a workaholic business man but he wasn’t arrogant or ruthless. He was open to suggestions or advice from his staff. He was intelligent, friendly and caring for the people close to him. He may be rich but he wasn’t spoiled. Holly was a friendly, independent, intelligent woman. Both were capable to love someone deeply but because of hurt in the past, they were also afraid of it. So it was wonderful to see how they open up to each other. I really enjoyed the banter between them too.
It was very touching to see and feel the friendship and love between the cousins (North, Gabe, Everley, Alaska, Kris and Holly). They really cared deeply for each other. They were there for each other in good and bad times. They each had their own personality and I can’t wait to read their story in this new series.
Winterville may be a small town but the people who live there have big hearts, they love to tease each other in good times and support each other in bad times. Life there may not always be easy, but the friendship and the love you find there is sincere and honest.
Let me start by saying that although it’s possible to read this book ‘Welcome to Winterville’ without reading the prequel ‘A kiss for Christmas’ first, I would still recommend that you read it before reading this story. Because first of all, it’s free (you just have to sign up to the writer’s newsletter : https://BookHip.com/QXWPRPK ) and secondly, because it’s a lovely, sweet story and it will give you more insight into Josh and Holly’s first meeting eight years ago.
‘Welcome to Winterville’ is a sweet, small mountain town, Christmas romance story. A story where workaholic businessman Josh Gerber and Holly Winter prove that anything can happen during Christmastime. Holly and Josh met eight years ago when Josh got stranded in Winterville for a few days during Christmas. They felt a connection but the timing wasn’t right then for them. Now they meet again and although the chemistry is still there between them, now they are on opposite side of a business deal. Or at least for Josh, it’s only business. For Holly and her cousins, it’s about saving the small mountain town Winterville from destruction. A town that belonged to their deceased grandmother, where they spend most of their childhood. A town that they love very much and where they know every inhabitant. Holly and her cousins know that the chance is small that they can save it but they will try their hardest and fight for it until the end.
Josh has never forgotten Holly and seeing her again brings back some sweet memories and feelings. And with each day that he spends in Winterville and in Holly’s company, Josh finds it harder to remember that it’s only business. Feelings are growing between Josh and Holly but is this the right time or was it never meant to be?
If you love watching Hallmark Christmas movies during the wintertime than this story is for you. Just a warning, this story is a bit steamier than a Hallmark movie. (Something that I loved very much!) ‘Welcome to Winterville is a super sweet story, filled with friendship, love, very light drama, funny banter and snow. The story is told from both POV’s.
I loved both main characters very much. Josh may be a workaholic business man but he wasn’t arrogant or ruthless. He was open to suggestions or advice from his staff. He was intelligent, friendly and caring for the people close to him. He may be rich but he wasn’t spoiled. Holly was a friendly, independent, intelligent woman. Both were capable to love someone deeply but because of hurt in the past, they were also afraid of it. So it was wonderful to see how they open up to each other. I really enjoyed the banter between them too.
It was very touching to see and feel the friendship and love between the cousins (North, Gabe, Everley, Alaska, Kris and Holly). They really cared deeply for each other. They were there for each other in good and bad times. They each had their own personality and I can’t wait to read their story in this new series.
Winterville may be a small town but the people who live there have big hearts, they love to tease each other in good times and support each other in bad times. Life there may not always be easy, but the friendship and the love you find there is sincere and honest.
March 14, 2023
Well I guess I am celebrating Christmas in March, and this was the first time I read Carrie Elks books and honestly I am in love with the storyline and all the family love. The book featured second-chance romance, small-town love, enemies-to-lovers story. Holly and Josh were perfect for each other and the way they made everything else perfect in the book was wonderful.
The love the town building, small town has their own perks and disadvantages and it was lovely to see everyone come together to help each other. Even though Holly and Josh were uncertain about their relationship everyone else just knew they were meant to be together. They had some serious chemistry between them and the Epilogue just made everything better!
We got introduction of other Winter cousins and I am desperately wanting to read all of them. This was a feel good and wonderful book in the series and I am rooting for more Winter cousins to find their HEA.
The love the town building, small town has their own perks and disadvantages and it was lovely to see everyone come together to help each other. Even though Holly and Josh were uncertain about their relationship everyone else just knew they were meant to be together. They had some serious chemistry between them and the Epilogue just made everything better!
We got introduction of other Winter cousins and I am desperately wanting to read all of them. This was a feel good and wonderful book in the series and I am rooting for more Winter cousins to find their HEA.
September 29, 2021
Wow. I loved that story so much. After reading how Holly and Josh first met, I knew that I had to find out how the rest of their story played out. And it is everything I wanted it to be. It’s a little bit second chance and all kinds of an emotional roller coaster. I loved watching this pair reconnect and actually get to know one another this time. Their individual family dramas made my heart hurt, but I really liked the growth that both Holly and Josh gain from facing those issues. The little bit of a teaser at the end of this book has left me dying to get my hands on the next in the series.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
I received a complimentary advanced copy of this book from the author.
September 30, 2021
Welcome to Winterville where Christmas spirit is in full swing.
This was a great introduction to the series; this one starts off with Holly and Josh, who had one amazing night together almost a decade ago and now Josh is back because he wants to turn this little town into a ski resort. But when he sees Holly again and she blows him off all bets are off. Soon they're spending time together and developing feelings that has them wishing he didn't leave all those years ago. But like any great xmas theme story this one also has a few road bumps on the way before the snow storm stops and all is left are tears and happiness and all the fricking feels.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
This was a great introduction to the series; this one starts off with Holly and Josh, who had one amazing night together almost a decade ago and now Josh is back because he wants to turn this little town into a ski resort. But when he sees Holly again and she blows him off all bets are off. Soon they're spending time together and developing feelings that has them wishing he didn't leave all those years ago. But like any great xmas theme story this one also has a few road bumps on the way before the snow storm stops and all is left are tears and happiness and all the fricking feels.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
October 7, 2021
Ive been looking forward to reading Holly and Josh's story, and it didn’t disappoint.
Holly and her cousins wont stand by whilst the town that their grandma started is torn down for a new redevelopment project.
Holly try’s to come up with a solution.
8 years ago Holly & Josh spent a hot night together but she can’t let that stop her determination to save the town.
Josh, he was raised knowing that one day he would run the family business, however his training has not prepared him for the attraction he still has to Holly, he’s never forgotten the time they had together. Holly and Josh are on opposite ends in the plans for the town and they need to navigate their differences as the attraction draws them closer together day by day.
Holly and her cousins wont stand by whilst the town that their grandma started is torn down for a new redevelopment project.
Holly try’s to come up with a solution.
8 years ago Holly & Josh spent a hot night together but she can’t let that stop her determination to save the town.
Josh, he was raised knowing that one day he would run the family business, however his training has not prepared him for the attraction he still has to Holly, he’s never forgotten the time they had together. Holly and Josh are on opposite ends in the plans for the town and they need to navigate their differences as the attraction draws them closer together day by day.
December 2, 2023
Giving this a 3.5 stars! Such a cute story! I felt like I was reading a Christmas Hallmark movie mixed with Gilmore Girls. I really enjoyed it. I’ve already ordered the 2nd book of this series and can’t wait! Perfect for winter/Christmas season.
January 26, 2025
Giccs és nyáltenger Hallmark módra.
Jobbra számítottam.
Jobbra számítottam.
December 5, 2023
truly just a hallmark movie in the form of a book. perfection.
April 12, 2022
This was sugar sweet! I read it with a smile on my face the whole time.
December 10, 2023
A cute read but if I had to take a shot for every time the characters “tilted their head” when speaking I would be in a coma. Could have been 4 stars but it’s in third person
September 9, 2021
Sweet and definitely sexy! I love this small town and how they all work together...even helping out "the enemy".
Very visual...so much holiday loveliness, just like a movie! I love Holly and Josh. I love how they came back together and made things work...even when it seemed that they wouldn't. Both are strong, compassionate characters. I loved their banter and they are smokin' when they're together.
Feel good, 100%!
Very visual...so much holiday loveliness, just like a movie! I love Holly and Josh. I love how they came back together and made things work...even when it seemed that they wouldn't. Both are strong, compassionate characters. I loved their banter and they are smokin' when they're together.
Feel good, 100%!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 277 reviews