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The Game #4
Jingle Bell Games
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can’t wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve neither will ever forget.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve neither will ever forget.
134 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2023
About the author
Cat Wynn
10 books158 followersCat is a writer, a night owl, and a lover of dogs. She often stays up deep into the night crafting her stories for hopefully lots and lots of people to read. She also really enjoys being home and doing things that people do at home like lounging in sweatpants and staring at instagram.
www.catwynnauthor.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 109 reviews
December 4, 2023
Jingle Bell Games - Cat Wynn
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓, 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌?"
Well, this was a pleasantly surprising spicy holiday read! I don't remember signing up for this ARC but boy am I glad I did 🤣 For a short romance (which usually is insta something) I read this in a day. The spice, story and banter were all SO good! Honestly, my only issue was it ended a little abruptly and left me wanting more 😘
𝑯𝒆 𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉. "𝑵𝒐𝒘, 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒔."
⭐⭐⭐⭐
"𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝒂𝒔𝒔 𝒍𝒐𝒐𝒌𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆 𝒊𝒕 𝒄𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒖𝒔𝒆 𝒔𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒄𝒐𝒍𝒐𝒓, 𝒅𝒐𝒏'𝒕 𝒚𝒐𝒖 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒌?"
Well, this was a pleasantly surprising spicy holiday read! I don't remember signing up for this ARC but boy am I glad I did 🤣 For a short romance (which usually is insta something) I read this in a day. The spice, story and banter were all SO good! Honestly, my only issue was it ended a little abruptly and left me wanting more 😘
𝑯𝒆 𝒚𝒂𝒏𝒌𝒔 𝒐𝒏 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒓𝒐𝒑𝒆 𝒐𝒇 𝑪𝒉𝒓𝒊𝒔𝒕𝒎𝒂𝒔 𝒍𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒆𝒏𝒔𝒖𝒓𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒚 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒕𝒊𝒈𝒉𝒕 𝒆𝒏𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉. "𝑵𝒐𝒘, 𝒈𝒆𝒕 𝒅𝒐𝒘𝒏 𝒐𝒏 𝒚𝒐𝒖𝒓 𝒌𝒏𝒆𝒆𝒔."
December 2, 2023
Five fantastic & festive stars. Cat Wynn is my crack.
December 13, 2023
⭐️: 5/5
🌶️: 3/5
Tropes:
-forced proximity
-holiday novella
-he’s secretly in love with her
-age gap
Summary:
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve neither will ever forget.
My Thoughts:
This is a cute and funny holiday novella!! Leo was so sweet and such a hopeless romantic. Lara definitely is a grouch but it only takes Leo spreading his Christmas joy to melt her icy heart! I loved how welcoming Leo’s family was to Lara. It was so nice and sweet how they treated her. I loved how Lara allowed Leo into her heart and life and how Leo integrated her in everything in his life. This was a fun read and will not disappoint to get you in the Christmas spirit!!
🌶️: 3/5
Tropes:
-forced proximity
-holiday novella
-he’s secretly in love with her
-age gap
Summary:
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve neither will ever forget.
My Thoughts:
This is a cute and funny holiday novella!! Leo was so sweet and such a hopeless romantic. Lara definitely is a grouch but it only takes Leo spreading his Christmas joy to melt her icy heart! I loved how welcoming Leo’s family was to Lara. It was so nice and sweet how they treated her. I loved how Lara allowed Leo into her heart and life and how Leo integrated her in everything in his life. This was a fun read and will not disappoint to get you in the Christmas spirit!!
December 20, 2023
But I’ve already set my glass down, and I’ve flipped over the naughty card, a satisfied smile on my face. “Give your partner,” I read loudly, “your . . .” Then my confidence wavers, my voice lowering to a hush. “Give your partner your underwear.” The flush that threatened before now washes through me in full force, heat blazing from my cheeks to my chest.
This was a story of reverse grumpy/sunshine and it reminded me how much I absolutely love this author. How in the world can she make smut and heart both shine equally?! Such a treat of a novella!
Lara had to take a job at a Christmas store after being laid off from her accountant job and is channeling some Big Scrooge Energy. Leo is Lara’s manager and helps run his family business during the holidays. He is already head over heels for Lara and all her grouchy vibes.
When Lara is ready to part ways with the temporary job since the season is over, somehow Leo and Lara get stuck in the closet. Queue the hidden champs, plastic flutes, sexy holiday games and let's get to know each other in a real intimate way.
This book is incredibly sexy. Leo is a cinnamon roll until you font want him to be one, then he becomes an edgy and bossy sir. His heart is on the line and if he can't make her fall in love, he will be devastated.
Expect good girls free their mind when they take spankings, how dare you get my sweater wet with all your lust, take it down and make noise, ride me hard and don't make a sound goodness.
💕💕💕💕💕/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
😂😂😂😂/5
😳😳😳/5
This was a story of reverse grumpy/sunshine and it reminded me how much I absolutely love this author. How in the world can she make smut and heart both shine equally?! Such a treat of a novella!
Lara had to take a job at a Christmas store after being laid off from her accountant job and is channeling some Big Scrooge Energy. Leo is Lara’s manager and helps run his family business during the holidays. He is already head over heels for Lara and all her grouchy vibes.
When Lara is ready to part ways with the temporary job since the season is over, somehow Leo and Lara get stuck in the closet. Queue the hidden champs, plastic flutes, sexy holiday games and let's get to know each other in a real intimate way.
This book is incredibly sexy. Leo is a cinnamon roll until you font want him to be one, then he becomes an edgy and bossy sir. His heart is on the line and if he can't make her fall in love, he will be devastated.
Expect good girls free their mind when they take spankings, how dare you get my sweater wet with all your lust, take it down and make noise, ride me hard and don't make a sound goodness.
💕💕💕💕💕/5
🔥🔥🔥🔥/5
😂😂😂😂/5
😳😳😳/5
December 2, 2023
⭐️🎄ARC BOOK REVIEW🎄⭐️
This book has really set December off with all the festive, steamy vibes. Jingle Bell Games was sooo smutty, and damn was it hot.
The book is set across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The story follows Lara, who has been working at a Christmas shop in town called The Jingle Bell, and she is the biggest Christmas grouch around. All she was looking forward to was going home, but fate had other plans.
This led to Lana and her boss, who is the owners son Leo, being trapped in a storage closet together for hours with only themselves for entertainment and a little adult card game... These two had always had a thing for one another but never mentioned it and Lana especially felt like she had no shot since she is 6 years older than Leo, but it seems Leo does not mind one bit.
I laughed so many times in this book, I swear Leo is just like a little puppy always falling over himself around Lana, but when things heat up between them he is more than eager to take charge. Seeing that side of him was so hot and simply amazing to read.
Sparks fly between the both of them, and a passionate evening is shared. And they finally give into one another to give them being together a shot. The book was short and sweet, and all I wanted was just more of them by the end.
This book has really set December off with all the festive, steamy vibes. Jingle Bell Games was sooo smutty, and damn was it hot.
The book is set across Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. The story follows Lara, who has been working at a Christmas shop in town called The Jingle Bell, and she is the biggest Christmas grouch around. All she was looking forward to was going home, but fate had other plans.
This led to Lana and her boss, who is the owners son Leo, being trapped in a storage closet together for hours with only themselves for entertainment and a little adult card game... These two had always had a thing for one another but never mentioned it and Lana especially felt like she had no shot since she is 6 years older than Leo, but it seems Leo does not mind one bit.
I laughed so many times in this book, I swear Leo is just like a little puppy always falling over himself around Lana, but when things heat up between them he is more than eager to take charge. Seeing that side of him was so hot and simply amazing to read.
Sparks fly between the both of them, and a passionate evening is shared. And they finally give into one another to give them being together a shot. The book was short and sweet, and all I wanted was just more of them by the end.
December 14, 2023
As the fourth novella in The Games Series, it made me curious about the first three. The story revolves around Leo and Lara, a reverse grumpy/sunshine and reverse age gap holiday romance. Leo's been crushing on Lara since he hired her for his family's Christmas store, and Lara, recently laid off, reluctantly took the gig despite her lack of festive spirit.
Their Christmas Eve takes an unexpected turn when they get locked in a closet, sparking a game of Naughty and Nice. Lara discovers Leo's not as "nice" as she thought, and his naughty side is surprisingly intriguing.
I enjoyed Lara's grumpy attitude, especially as someone who's worked retail during the holidays. Her inner monologue brought humor and entertainment.
Leo, a timid golden retriever with a hidden Dom side, adds a nice twist to their Christmas lockup. It's a playful dynamic that keeps things interesting.
While I haven't read the first three novellas, "Jingle Bell Games" stands out as a spicy, not overly sweet, holiday read. Taking a chance on this author was a good call. It's a quick and satisfying Christmas tale, earning it a solid four stars for the fun and spice!
Their Christmas Eve takes an unexpected turn when they get locked in a closet, sparking a game of Naughty and Nice. Lara discovers Leo's not as "nice" as she thought, and his naughty side is surprisingly intriguing.
I enjoyed Lara's grumpy attitude, especially as someone who's worked retail during the holidays. Her inner monologue brought humor and entertainment.
Leo, a timid golden retriever with a hidden Dom side, adds a nice twist to their Christmas lockup. It's a playful dynamic that keeps things interesting.
While I haven't read the first three novellas, "Jingle Bell Games" stands out as a spicy, not overly sweet, holiday read. Taking a chance on this author was a good call. It's a quick and satisfying Christmas tale, earning it a solid four stars for the fun and spice!
December 6, 2023
All I can say is HELLO , LEO!
This was pleasantly spicy and so much fun to read!! The banter was unexpectedly funny and sexy, and the story was over before I knew it ( curse you, novella!). The ending felt a little abrupt, but I’m not sure if that’s because novellas almost always leave me wanting more, or because it was actually an awkward place to end. Regardless, this gets 5 stars from me because I enjoyed it so much!
This was pleasantly spicy and so much fun to read!! The banter was unexpectedly funny and sexy, and the story was over before I knew it ( curse you, novella!). The ending felt a little abrupt, but I’m not sure if that’s because novellas almost always leave me wanting more, or because it was actually an awkward place to end. Regardless, this gets 5 stars from me because I enjoyed it so much!
December 7, 2023
I will ALWAYS be a sucker for workplace romances and adding Christmas to the mix only makes me love it more!
This was a funny and cute little spicy novella that was so Christmas y! Lana and her boss, Leo, get stuck in a storage closet with a fun little game and just themselves. What could two consenting adults possibly get up to while trapped?!
You and I both know what they got up to in that closet and it was at least two fire emojis 💖
This was a funny and cute little spicy novella that was so Christmas y! Lana and her boss, Leo, get stuck in a storage closet with a fun little game and just themselves. What could two consenting adults possibly get up to while trapped?!
You and I both know what they got up to in that closet and it was at least two fire emojis 💖
December 2, 2023
This is such a fun and spicy Christmas novella! I’ve always been a fan of those movies or shows where people are locked in the stores and forced to spend time together and this book is that but during Christmas which is awesome. This is like a mini Hallmark movie, but add in some great spice. I loved it!
December 7, 2023
4.5 ⭐️
i often find novellas difficult because they're just too short for the characters to really have any growth. this one, however, was so well written and surprisingly spicy. this was a cozy holiday novella with lots of great spice, with a grumpy fmc and a golden retriever mmc that's determined to win her over. i was honestly left wishing this was a full length novel, it was THAT good.
i often find novellas difficult because they're just too short for the characters to really have any growth. this one, however, was so well written and surprisingly spicy. this was a cozy holiday novella with lots of great spice, with a grumpy fmc and a golden retriever mmc that's determined to win her over. i was honestly left wishing this was a full length novel, it was THAT good.
December 8, 2023
Ughhh I loved it so much 🥵
This was just perfect, such a lovely, cozy and hot 🔥 🔥 story.
It had everything i want in a holiday novella: a pining cinamon roll hero, a grumpy heroine and forced proximity 😈
Now i need to read the rest of the series, asap.
Thanks to the author for the eARC
This was just perfect, such a lovely, cozy and hot 🔥 🔥 story.
It had everything i want in a holiday novella: a pining cinamon roll hero, a grumpy heroine and forced proximity 😈
Now i need to read the rest of the series, asap.
Thanks to the author for the eARC
December 12, 2023
Christmas Spice anyone?! 🎄🔥🌶️ This little sizzling novella will secure your spot on Santa’s naughty list for sure! Leo and Laura’s forced proximity and workplace romance was such a fun read! Card game, anyone? 😏♥️♠️♣️♦️
December 24, 2023
This book was a first for me for a couple of tropes found in this book. Those tropes are reverse age gap and reverse grumpy/ sunshine. It was a nice smutty fun read. Leo was very surprising in the best possible way. Prefect for right before Christmas.
December 18, 2023
Ebook. Purchased. Like a Hallmark Christmas movie with 🌶️🌶️🌶️.
December 6, 2023
Very cute, quick read. 😍 Spice level 🌶🌶🌶
December 21, 2023
Jingle Bell Games is a sweet and steamy short novella that tells the story of Lara and Leo, who get stuck in a closet on Christmas Eve. A few hours pass before they are rescued, and in the meanwhile... some Christmas spice happens.
I found this novella sweet with the right amount of spice, I smiled often reading about the way they fell for each other. I really enjoyed reading this story.
I found this novella sweet with the right amount of spice, I smiled often reading about the way they fell for each other. I really enjoyed reading this story.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 13, 2023
Spicy and fun! Leo is a boss in the bedroom and Lara loves it. This was such a fun, quick, enjoyable read! Highly recommend this holiday novella!
December 2, 2023
Jingle Bell Games by Cat Wynn
Releases: December 13th
Blurb: Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she's a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can't wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum.
Her manager (and the owner's son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer and he's had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara's been immune to his charms, and now he's running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off.
Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he's been hoping for-Lara's affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it's guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve neither will ever forget.
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Up for a quickie Holiday Novella?
Let me just say this was so funny. I was giggling… literal giggles. If you’ve ever worked retail, you’ll have a huge appreciation for the opening scene!
We have a reverse age gap Lara 31 and Leo 25. Lara is laid off from her job and picks up temporary work at Leo’s family store. Leo is stunningly handsome, kind, and charming to everyone… and so vanilla.
The problem? Lara hates the golden boy. Another problem? Leo loves Lara.
On her LAST shift they are locked in the storage closet. Bring on the champagne, naughty nice card game, Christmas lights and Santa paddles.
Think Hallmark cute… with SPICE.
🤍 Will this hurt your feels? Nope! So cute. There is a touching scene about being a family disappointment that was so relatable!
🌶️ Spice: Slow lead up, but when we get there.. hellooooo. Starts vanilla, much to Lara’s dismay- moves to dominate-ish Spanking,
🍑 Play, can I keep you vibes; because Leo is nothing if not polite
⭐️ Category: MF, Boss/Employee, Grumpy (her) / Sunshine (him)
🚦 would I recommend: 100% yes! This was a cute spicy holiday read, perfect for the holiday hohos.
December 6, 2023
When the holiday season starts, I always like including some seasonal romance books to my reading list to bring some sweet and spiciness to this time of year. So, I was very excited to get a copy of Cat Wynn's latest novella, Jingle Bell Games. This was the first book of Wynn's that I have read but it definitely won't be my last.
In this story, we meet Lara, our grumpy heroine who has taken on a temporary job at a Christmas themed shop, where the holiday cheer is nearly more than she can bare. Never is this more on display than in the persona of her handsome, charming and suspiciously 'too sweet' manager, Leo. Unbeknownst to Lara, Leo is anything but put off by Lara's less than friendly demeanor. In reality, Leo has been harboring strong feelings for Lara and as her last day draws to a close, Leo doesn't know how he will convince her to give him a chance.
Luckily for Leo the Christmas spirit and an unreliable closet door, means that he gets to spend some quality time trapped with Lara until someone comes to let them out. Soon enough, Lara realizes that there is much more to Leo than meets the eye and a game of 'Naught or Nice' leads to some heated revelations that leaves them both reeling in the best of ways.
Leo is the spicy cinnamon roll MMC that makes you melt and want to hug him all at once. I really appreciated how once they started to open up to one another, Lara and Leo find in each other someone who accepts and celebrates all of who they are. What better gift is there than to feel fully seen and accepted for all of who you are? While their time in the story was short, I also enjoyed the interactions between Leo's family and Lara and the counterpoint that offers to her own family situation.
This book is just what you want from a holiday novella--it's festive, fun, flirty with the right amount of fire to warm you up on an chilly afternoon.
In this story, we meet Lara, our grumpy heroine who has taken on a temporary job at a Christmas themed shop, where the holiday cheer is nearly more than she can bare. Never is this more on display than in the persona of her handsome, charming and suspiciously 'too sweet' manager, Leo. Unbeknownst to Lara, Leo is anything but put off by Lara's less than friendly demeanor. In reality, Leo has been harboring strong feelings for Lara and as her last day draws to a close, Leo doesn't know how he will convince her to give him a chance.
Luckily for Leo the Christmas spirit and an unreliable closet door, means that he gets to spend some quality time trapped with Lara until someone comes to let them out. Soon enough, Lara realizes that there is much more to Leo than meets the eye and a game of 'Naught or Nice' leads to some heated revelations that leaves them both reeling in the best of ways.
Leo is the spicy cinnamon roll MMC that makes you melt and want to hug him all at once. I really appreciated how once they started to open up to one another, Lara and Leo find in each other someone who accepts and celebrates all of who they are. What better gift is there than to feel fully seen and accepted for all of who you are? While their time in the story was short, I also enjoyed the interactions between Leo's family and Lara and the counterpoint that offers to her own family situation.
This book is just what you want from a holiday novella--it's festive, fun, flirty with the right amount of fire to warm you up on an chilly afternoon.
December 14, 2023
🌟 4.5/5
‼️ While this could be read as a standalone, this is book 4 in the Game series.
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can’t wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve, neither will ever forget.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
When I first signed up for this ARC, I did not know that there were other books in the series. Y'all know me, and how I can't start a book in the middle of a series. My type A personality simply doesn't allow me to. Sooooo... I ran off to read the first 3 in the series and finally got back around to reading this wonderful novella. I can say with certainty that this one was my favorite!😏
It was a quick and steamy novella that had black cat and golden retriever vibes. I also loved the reverse age gap between the characters. Since this is a novella, there is little plot and tons of spice. A quick read to help with a reading slump or to just help check off books towards your end of the year reading goal.❤️
Thank you, Cat, for the ARC! I look forward to the next holiday installment!😍
‼️ While this could be read as a standalone, this is book 4 in the Game series.
ℙ𝕆𝕍: first person, dual perspectives
𝕊𝕦𝕞𝕞𝕒𝕣𝕪:
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can’t wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicoli, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for—Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas Eve, neither will ever forget.
𝕄𝕪 𝕋𝕙𝕠𝕦𝕘𝕙𝕥𝕤:
When I first signed up for this ARC, I did not know that there were other books in the series. Y'all know me, and how I can't start a book in the middle of a series. My type A personality simply doesn't allow me to. Sooooo... I ran off to read the first 3 in the series and finally got back around to reading this wonderful novella. I can say with certainty that this one was my favorite!😏
It was a quick and steamy novella that had black cat and golden retriever vibes. I also loved the reverse age gap between the characters. Since this is a novella, there is little plot and tons of spice. A quick read to help with a reading slump or to just help check off books towards your end of the year reading goal.❤️
Thank you, Cat, for the ARC! I look forward to the next holiday installment!😍
December 18, 2023
This forced proximity novella was just what I hoped for!
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because Goodreads.
I received a free copy for this novella for an honest review.
You can read this as a stand alone, but it’s better off you read Cat’s other holiday novellas because you get a nice little update on the whole friend group at the end.
I’ve read all of Cat’s other books, so I knew I was likely to enjoy this one. I wasn’t wrong! Because this is a novella I’m pretty limited on what I can say I can say without spoilers. But here’s what you need to know.
Lara is an absolute grump who happens to currently be working at a pop up Christmas store.
Leo is the son of the store owners and an absolute cinnamon roll. But with a a kinky side.
Just as she’s clocked out for her last shift at this seasonal job, Lara finds herself locked in the storeroom with Leo. No service on her phone and at least a few hours before anyone is likely to come looking for them.
With nothing else to do, they crack open a pack of naughty and nice cards to pass the time.
Let the Jingle Bell Games begin!
Forced proximity is my catnip and this is a delicious example of how the trope should be written. We also get an older FMC x younger MMC. Some fun spicy dom/sub play in and out of the closet. Sprinkled with a little praise kink. And the sexy times are well balanced with a little cozy holiday cheer and family time. I loved it!
4.5 stars rounded up to 5 because Goodreads.
I received a free copy for this novella for an honest review.
You can read this as a stand alone, but it’s better off you read Cat’s other holiday novellas because you get a nice little update on the whole friend group at the end.
I’ve read all of Cat’s other books, so I knew I was likely to enjoy this one. I wasn’t wrong! Because this is a novella I’m pretty limited on what I can say I can say without spoilers. But here’s what you need to know.
Lara is an absolute grump who happens to currently be working at a pop up Christmas store.
Leo is the son of the store owners and an absolute cinnamon roll. But with a a kinky side.
Just as she’s clocked out for her last shift at this seasonal job, Lara finds herself locked in the storeroom with Leo. No service on her phone and at least a few hours before anyone is likely to come looking for them.
With nothing else to do, they crack open a pack of naughty and nice cards to pass the time.
Let the Jingle Bell Games begin!
Forced proximity is my catnip and this is a delicious example of how the trope should be written. We also get an older FMC x younger MMC. Some fun spicy dom/sub play in and out of the closet. Sprinkled with a little praise kink. And the sexy times are well balanced with a little cozy holiday cheer and family time. I loved it!
December 20, 2023
I found myself on the edge of a reading slump and saw this come across as a great little holiday novella.. so of COURSE I grabbed it immediately.
First of all, this is the first book I've read by this author and on page 1 of Lara's POV, I knew without a doubt that I would love the characters written by Cat Wynn. Lara doesn't hold back anything - her proclivity for spicy language, her disdain for the holiday, and her overall disgust for the incredibly attractive, younger, charming man who is her boss.
Leo, on the other hand, cannot stop scheming to win Lara's affection - the whole 3 months leading up to Christmas have been him plotting just how he can break through her icy exterior. This absolute golden retriever man has a delightful secret though.. and a couple of hours locked in the closet, awaiting help that will show up eventually, presents the type of Christmas miracle that Leo has been hoping for.
A quick read, so much heat, perfect banter and incredibly realistic interactions between two people as they get to know each other better.. read this if you like:
- (minor) age-gap between your MCs, where FMC is older and the gap is less than 10
- sort-of work romance, although the 'boss' title no longer applies unless it's invoked (wink-wink lol)
- a heavy dose of holiday love (borderline obsession) countered with a real Grinch (who's heart may or may not grow 3 sizes before it's all said and done).
First of all, this is the first book I've read by this author and on page 1 of Lara's POV, I knew without a doubt that I would love the characters written by Cat Wynn. Lara doesn't hold back anything - her proclivity for spicy language, her disdain for the holiday, and her overall disgust for the incredibly attractive, younger, charming man who is her boss.
Leo, on the other hand, cannot stop scheming to win Lara's affection - the whole 3 months leading up to Christmas have been him plotting just how he can break through her icy exterior. This absolute golden retriever man has a delightful secret though.. and a couple of hours locked in the closet, awaiting help that will show up eventually, presents the type of Christmas miracle that Leo has been hoping for.
A quick read, so much heat, perfect banter and incredibly realistic interactions between two people as they get to know each other better.. read this if you like:
- (minor) age-gap between your MCs, where FMC is older and the gap is less than 10
- sort-of work romance, although the 'boss' title no longer applies unless it's invoked (wink-wink lol)
- a heavy dose of holiday love (borderline obsession) countered with a real Grinch (who's heart may or may not grow 3 sizes before it's all said and done).
December 23, 2023
“I’m always happy to share. You’re always welcome here.”
“Here as in the store?”
“Here as in my life.”
“Are you serious?”
He leans in and before I can react, plants a kiss on my lips. A sweet, soft kiss.
I kiss back, my eyes shuttering closed.
“Always…” he whispers again, his fingers threading through my hair. “I’ve never been more serious.”
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can’t wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicol, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for-Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas eve neither will ever forget.
Grumpy/sunshine trope
Age gap
Holiday romance
Forced proximity
I enjoyed this holiday romance novella. Lara has a grumpy attitude, who was entertaining. Leo is a golden retriever with a Dom sid and I was here for it. 3.5 stars.
“Here as in the store?”
“Here as in my life.”
“Are you serious?”
He leans in and before I can react, plants a kiss on my lips. A sweet, soft kiss.
I kiss back, my eyes shuttering closed.
“Always…” he whispers again, his fingers threading through my hair. “I’ve never been more serious.”
Lara Blunt is a grouch, but she’s a grouch who works at the merriest little Christmas shop in town, The Jingle Bell. Lara can’t wait for her Christmas Eve shift to end so she can sulk at home by herself with a bottle of rum. Her manager (and the owner’s son!) Leo Nicol, on the other hand, is full of holiday cheer, and he’s had his eyes on Lara since the day she stomped into his store. Unfortunately for Leo, Lara’s been immune to his charms, and now he’s running out of time to win her over.
But when Leo and Lara get locked into a broom closet together right before closing time, all holiday bets are off. Maybe Leo can finally get the Christmas gift he’s been hoping for-Lara’s affection. And maybe Lara can finally begin to feel a little Christmas spirit, courtesy of the most festive guy in town. Either way, it’s guaranteed to be a Christmas eve neither will ever forget.
Grumpy/sunshine trope
Age gap
Holiday romance
Forced proximity
I enjoyed this holiday romance novella. Lara has a grumpy attitude, who was entertaining. Leo is a golden retriever with a Dom sid and I was here for it. 3.5 stars.
December 29, 2023
Cat Wynn has done a brilliant job in capturing the Christmas spirit in her new novella “Jingle Bell Games”. But which Christmas spirit do you think I’m talking about? Certainly not the Christmas spirit Lara imagined herself feeling, especially since she was working at a temporary job at a pop-up Christmas store, and try as she might, she just couldn’t be as cheery as Leo, the son of the shop owner. Until the tables are turned, and Christmas Eve starts looking very different for Lara.
Wynn has given me new hope in the novella style. She worked the story so well that you forget that you aren’t reading a full novel. In fact, I would have to say that this is the first novella that provides such a well-rounded storyline, that it leaves you totally satisfied when you finish the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jingle Bell Games and recommend it. Especially if you like steamy, spicy, open-door stories! I still have a smile on my face!!
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Jingle Bell Games: A Steamy Holiday NovellaJingle Bell Games: A Steamy Holiday Novella
Wynn has given me new hope in the novella style. She worked the story so well that you forget that you aren’t reading a full novel. In fact, I would have to say that this is the first novella that provides such a well-rounded storyline, that it leaves you totally satisfied when you finish the book.
I thoroughly enjoyed Jingle Bell Games and recommend it. Especially if you like steamy, spicy, open-door stories! I still have a smile on my face!!
I received this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Jingle Bell Games: A Steamy Holiday NovellaJingle Bell Games: A Steamy Holiday Novella
December 11, 2023
𝐖𝐡𝐚𝐭 𝐭𝐨 𝐄𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐜𝐭:
🎄Holiday Novella
💼Boss x Employee
🎅🏻Reverse Age Gap
🚪Forced Proximity
♠️Sexy Card Game
About the Book:
Lara’s recently went under and she was forced to look for temp work. She ends up working at a seasonal Christmas store where Leo is her boss. She finds Leo cute, but nothing ever comes of it. Leo has been smitten with Lara since she started working together and even made sure they worked the same shifts. On the last night before the holidays, they end up stuck in a closet together. They find a naughty and nice card game and decide to play. As they play, things get steamy. They end up celebrating Christmas together, where they don’t want the connection they have to end.
What I Loved:
This book was so good! 🙌🏻
This was my first book by Cat + I loved these MMCs. I found Cat through SJ Tilly and I am so happy! 😍
Leo while maybe seemed “vanilla” to Lara at first, quickly showed her his more alpha side. He was hesitant at first, but once she questioned his skills, all bets were off. I mean he even gave her a color system to let him know where she was at. He also added in lots of ‘good girl’ too. 🥵
I loved the boss + employee dynamic of it all, all while adding in the Christmas time spirit! 🫶🏻
If you’re looking for a short + spicy holiday book, then you NEED to read this! 🔥
Rating:
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
🎄Holiday Novella
💼Boss x Employee
🎅🏻Reverse Age Gap
🚪Forced Proximity
♠️Sexy Card Game
About the Book:
Lara’s recently went under and she was forced to look for temp work. She ends up working at a seasonal Christmas store where Leo is her boss. She finds Leo cute, but nothing ever comes of it. Leo has been smitten with Lara since she started working together and even made sure they worked the same shifts. On the last night before the holidays, they end up stuck in a closet together. They find a naughty and nice card game and decide to play. As they play, things get steamy. They end up celebrating Christmas together, where they don’t want the connection they have to end.
What I Loved:
This book was so good! 🙌🏻
This was my first book by Cat + I loved these MMCs. I found Cat through SJ Tilly and I am so happy! 😍
Leo while maybe seemed “vanilla” to Lara at first, quickly showed her his more alpha side. He was hesitant at first, but once she questioned his skills, all bets were off. I mean he even gave her a color system to let him know where she was at. He also added in lots of ‘good girl’ too. 🥵
I loved the boss + employee dynamic of it all, all while adding in the Christmas time spirit! 🫶🏻
If you’re looking for a short + spicy holiday book, then you NEED to read this! 🔥
Rating:
4.5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
December 2, 2023
This was a fun holiday novella from Cat Wynn. If you don’t follow Cat on Instagram, you should. She cracks me up. Anyways, I could feel her energy in this book. Crazy because I don’t actually know her, but I felt her. This book was a solid 5 and addition to her games series.
Lara and Leo both work at a Christmas pop-up store. Leo’s family owns the business and building and do quite well from it. Lara gets hired for the seasonal position after being laid off from her accounting job. She’s pretty down about the whole situation, and arguably a grinch this Christmas. Leo meanwhile is 6 years younger than her and as cheery and flirty with customers as can be. He’s been pining over Lara though without any reciprocation. And then.. they get trapped in a supply closet. Then things start to get real interesting. A naughty or nice themed board game spiced up the closet and Lara started to see Leo in a different light.
This book has humor, it has some excellent spice, and all in all - Lara’s Christmas spirit is just a little bit better when it’s all said and done. A total hit from Cat Wynn - no shocker!
Lara and Leo both work at a Christmas pop-up store. Leo’s family owns the business and building and do quite well from it. Lara gets hired for the seasonal position after being laid off from her accounting job. She’s pretty down about the whole situation, and arguably a grinch this Christmas. Leo meanwhile is 6 years younger than her and as cheery and flirty with customers as can be. He’s been pining over Lara though without any reciprocation. And then.. they get trapped in a supply closet. Then things start to get real interesting. A naughty or nice themed board game spiced up the closet and Lara started to see Leo in a different light.
This book has humor, it has some excellent spice, and all in all - Lara’s Christmas spirit is just a little bit better when it’s all said and done. A total hit from Cat Wynn - no shocker!
December 10, 2023
🎄 I firstly want to say thank you to Cat for giving me an ARC of Jingle Bell Games.
🎅🏼 When Grumpy Lara and Sunshine Leo work together in a Christmas shop, all bets are off when they get locked in the store cupboard together on Christmas Eve, and have no way out.
🎄 So much is packed into this Novella, but nothing felt rushed.
🎅🏼 The spicy scenes are absolute perfection 🤌🏻
🎄 I knew that I would like it, but honestly I was not expecting it to become my absolute favourite Christmas Novella of all time. I WAS SERIOUSLY NOT PREPARED for it to be this damn good.
🎅🏼 Sitting <150 pages this will take an hour or so to read, and it is perfectly festive and spicy. The only downside is that it *was* only a Novella and I'm a greedy biatch 😁🤣
🎄 What to expect: Small age gap, forced proximity, reverse grumpy x sunshine, boss/employee, THERE IS A DOG 🐶, HEA, a sensible ending (you'll know what I mean when you read it! I absolutely LOVED the ending), Christmas smut.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (I don't give 5⭐ lightly!)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thanks again, Cat, for letting me read an ARC of your glorious book! 🫶🏻
🎅🏼 When Grumpy Lara and Sunshine Leo work together in a Christmas shop, all bets are off when they get locked in the store cupboard together on Christmas Eve, and have no way out.
🎄 So much is packed into this Novella, but nothing felt rushed.
🎅🏼 The spicy scenes are absolute perfection 🤌🏻
🎄 I knew that I would like it, but honestly I was not expecting it to become my absolute favourite Christmas Novella of all time. I WAS SERIOUSLY NOT PREPARED for it to be this damn good.
🎅🏼 Sitting <150 pages this will take an hour or so to read, and it is perfectly festive and spicy. The only downside is that it *was* only a Novella and I'm a greedy biatch 😁🤣
🎄 What to expect: Small age gap, forced proximity, reverse grumpy x sunshine, boss/employee, THERE IS A DOG 🐶, HEA, a sensible ending (you'll know what I mean when you read it! I absolutely LOVED the ending), Christmas smut.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (I don't give 5⭐ lightly!)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Thanks again, Cat, for letting me read an ARC of your glorious book! 🫶🏻
December 14, 2023
I definitely fell in love with her at first sight. The men in my family are like that. We love big. We like what we like. And we want to devote our whole lives to it.
Tropes:
Grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, workplace.
ARC review:
A sweet and sexy Christmas novella with humor, spice and the best grumpy/sunshine characters. The Christmas shop seems over-the-top and wonderful, and the whole Holiday celebrations in Leo’s family really gave a great Christmas vibe and helped me get in the Holiday spirit. The forced proximity was very cool, and the game they decided to play was so fun and really led them to get to know each other better and become really close (intimately). The spicy times were very steamy and surprising, and I really enjoyed it.
Leo is just the most sunshiny, sweet and respectful young man. He manages the Christmas shop his dad owns, so he is in fact Lara’s boss. Lara is the complete opposite, a real grumpy Christmas grouch, who is working at the Christmas shop temporarily. Leo is completely besotted by Lara from the first moment he saw her, but he knew she was closed off, and he took his time to get to know her and get her to lower her walls. Lara herself had a wonderful character growth, and when she finally opened up, she was just great! The chemistry and attraction they have was great.
Tropes:
Grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, workplace.
ARC review:
A sweet and sexy Christmas novella with humor, spice and the best grumpy/sunshine characters. The Christmas shop seems over-the-top and wonderful, and the whole Holiday celebrations in Leo’s family really gave a great Christmas vibe and helped me get in the Holiday spirit. The forced proximity was very cool, and the game they decided to play was so fun and really led them to get to know each other better and become really close (intimately). The spicy times were very steamy and surprising, and I really enjoyed it.
Leo is just the most sunshiny, sweet and respectful young man. He manages the Christmas shop his dad owns, so he is in fact Lara’s boss. Lara is the complete opposite, a real grumpy Christmas grouch, who is working at the Christmas shop temporarily. Leo is completely besotted by Lara from the first moment he saw her, but he knew she was closed off, and he took his time to get to know her and get her to lower her walls. Lara herself had a wonderful character growth, and when she finally opened up, she was just great! The chemistry and attraction they have was great.
December 13, 2023
☆☆☆☆
🌶️🌶️🌶️
In this book we meet Lara who works at a Christmas store for the time being as she has just been laid off from her accounting job. She doesn't even really like Christmas but a job is a job. When Christmas eve hits she is anxious to get home and be done with this place. But her boss Leo loves Christmas and is the exact opposite of Lara.
Lara finds Leo attractive but she is 6 years older than him and everything she is not. He loves Christmas and can't wait to celebrate whereas she was going home to a bottle of wine and watch reality TV. But when they get locked in a closet and play a spicy Christmas game all bets are off!
This was such a good holiday novella and the spice was *chefs kiss*. I loved how Leo showed Lara a different side of him and she fell at his feet. He was as spicy as he was sweet. I enjoyed when he took her home to his family to show her the true meaning of Christmas!
If you are looking for a holiday novella that will have you sweating from the spice and swooning over the MMC...look no further pick this one up!
Read if you like:
💚 Forced Proximity
❤️ Age Gap (she's older)
💚 Boss x Employee
❤️ Spanking
💚 Christmas light play
❤️ Grumpy x Sunshine (she’s the grump)
🌶️🌶️🌶️
In this book we meet Lara who works at a Christmas store for the time being as she has just been laid off from her accounting job. She doesn't even really like Christmas but a job is a job. When Christmas eve hits she is anxious to get home and be done with this place. But her boss Leo loves Christmas and is the exact opposite of Lara.
Lara finds Leo attractive but she is 6 years older than him and everything she is not. He loves Christmas and can't wait to celebrate whereas she was going home to a bottle of wine and watch reality TV. But when they get locked in a closet and play a spicy Christmas game all bets are off!
This was such a good holiday novella and the spice was *chefs kiss*. I loved how Leo showed Lara a different side of him and she fell at his feet. He was as spicy as he was sweet. I enjoyed when he took her home to his family to show her the true meaning of Christmas!
If you are looking for a holiday novella that will have you sweating from the spice and swooning over the MMC...look no further pick this one up!
Read if you like:
💚 Forced Proximity
❤️ Age Gap (she's older)
💚 Boss x Employee
❤️ Spanking
💚 Christmas light play
❤️ Grumpy x Sunshine (she’s the grump)
December 17, 2023
Holy moly. It is honestly hard to come up with words to describe how HOT and STEAMY and wonderful this novella was.
This is my first book by Cat Wynn and it will NOT be my last. I am already adding all of her other books to my TBR because this one was so well-written.
Forced proximity. A dirty Christmas card game. Champagne. Secret attraction. What could go wrong?
This book brought me so much Christmas joy and I loved the steamy moments between Leo and Lara.
***POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW***
*
*
*
*
*
-Favorite Part? SANTA PING PONG PADDLES…….
-Quotes that I loved from the book:
Chapter 4: “I don’t want to scare her off with my feelings, and I especially don’t want to scare her off with the fact that I’m a filthy motherfucker who wants to do filthy things to her”
Chapter 5: “And now he’s offering up an orgasm on a Christmas platter?”
Chapter 15: “It’s just a Christmas wonderland inside a bigger Christmas wonderland. The matryoshka doll of Christmas themed areas”
Chapter 15: “I definitely fell in love with her at first sight. The men in my family are like that. We love big. We like what we like. And we want to devote our whole lives to it”
This is my first book by Cat Wynn and it will NOT be my last. I am already adding all of her other books to my TBR because this one was so well-written.
Forced proximity. A dirty Christmas card game. Champagne. Secret attraction. What could go wrong?
This book brought me so much Christmas joy and I loved the steamy moments between Leo and Lara.
***POTENTIAL SPOILERS BELOW***
*
*
*
*
*
-Favorite Part? SANTA PING PONG PADDLES…….
-Quotes that I loved from the book:
Chapter 4: “I don’t want to scare her off with my feelings, and I especially don’t want to scare her off with the fact that I’m a filthy motherfucker who wants to do filthy things to her”
Chapter 5: “And now he’s offering up an orgasm on a Christmas platter?”
Chapter 15: “It’s just a Christmas wonderland inside a bigger Christmas wonderland. The matryoshka doll of Christmas themed areas”
Chapter 15: “I definitely fell in love with her at first sight. The men in my family are like that. We love big. We like what we like. And we want to devote our whole lives to it”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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