Chasing Mr. December

Magnolia Point, SC aka Man of the Month Club #27

by L.M. Fox

A small town enemies to lovers, return to hometown, holiday firefighter romance with a guaranteed happily ever after. In 2024, escape to the Lowcountry of Magnolia Point, South Carolina, and celebrate all the fun holidays with your favorite group of romance authors and their charming Southern men. See you there!

Genres: Christmas, Holiday, Novella, Firefighters, Contemporary, Enemies To Lovers, Holiday Romance

165 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2024

About the author

Born and raised in Virginia, LM Fox currently lives in a suburb of Richmond with her husband, three kids, and a chocolate lab.

Her pastimes are traveling to new and favorite places, trying new foods, a swoony book with either a good cup of tea or coffee, margaritas on special occasions, and watching her kids participate in a variety of sports.

She has spent the majority of her adult life working in emergency medicine and her books are written in this setting. Her main characters are typically in the medical field, EMS, fire, and/or law enforcement. She enjoys writing angsty, contemporary romance starring headstrong, independent heroines you can’t help but love and the hot alpha men who fall hard for them.

Born and raised in Virginia, LM Fox currently lives in a suburb of Richmond with her husband, three kids, and a chocolate lab.
Her pastimes are traveling to new and favorite places, trying new foods, a swoony book with either a good cup of tea or coffee, margaritas on special occasions, and watching her kids participate in a variety of sports.
She has spent the majority of her adult life working in emergency medicine and her books are written in this setting. Her main characters are typically in the medical field, EMS, fire, and/or law enforcement. She enjoys writing angsty, contemporary romance starring headstrong, independent heroines you can’t help but love and the hot alpha men who fall hard for them.
Born and raised in Virginia, LM Fox currently lives in a suburb of Richmond with her husband, three kids, and a chocolate lab.
Her pastimes are traveling to new and favorite places, trying new foods, a swoony book with either a good cup of tea or coffee, margaritas on special occasions, and watching her kids participate in a variety of sports.
She has spent the majority of her adult life working in emergency medicine and her books are written in this setting. Her main characters are typically in the medical field, EMS, fire, and/or law enforcement. She enjoys writing angsty, contemporary romance starring headstrong, independent heroines you can’t help but love and the hot alpha men who fall hard for them.

Reviews

[PleaseGoAwayImReading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just love the Magnolia Point books— they show different characters from the same small town world finding love and they’re just so cute.

In this installment, Jase comes back to Magnolia Point to care for his ailing father . A firefighter, he also scores a part time gig with the local firehouse while he’s in town. He’s hot, broody, and did I mention he’s smokin’ hot?

Quinn has had a crush on Jase since she was a kid. Ten years his junior, she never caught his eye the way she wanted to. As her older brother’s best friend Jase was destined to stay out of reach. Especially after her bro makes a poor decision involving Jase’s fiancee, causing the friends to have a falling out.

It’s years later and Jase and Quinn’s brother are still at odds. But Quinn is all grown up and smokin’ hot, too, and she’s determined.

I loved the friends-adjacent turned enemies-adjacent turned acquaintance turned friends/lovers. Everything that happens in the story just seems so “them,” if that makes sense?

If you like small town, friends/enemies to lovers, a little spice, romantic dialogue, humor, and a little angst with a happy ever after then definitely give this one a look!

[balayageandbooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a short and sweet holiday read!

Even though it’s chasing Mr. December you could read this any time of the year!

This MMC is the perfect broody fireman and will have you ready to strangle him one minute…

And then ready to climb him in the next .

The FMC is an absolute sweetheart and you’ll be cheering for her to find her HEA!


These two together are like fire and gasoline!

This little town Magnolia Point is just bursting at the seams with the cutest couples!

You’ll be wishing you could visit there yourself!

[Torey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great quick read. It's a slow burn about a scorned firefighter and his ex-best friend's little sister. There is a lot of emotion, a firefighter calendar 🥵 and a small town feel to bring this book together. The chemistry was great and the characters were wonderful.

I received an advance copy of this book and am leaving this review voluntarily

[Steph Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC read

Super cute short Christmas firefighter book. Brothers best friend. Guys he works in a Christmas tree farm. In a small town. It’s a perfect little spicy Christmas novella
Jase and Quinn too freaking cute

[Debi Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

Title Says It All

The title says it all for this book. Jason and Quinn made the perfect couple in the end. With a little chasing him to help her with her job it finally worked out well. This was a great read

[tattooedbooknerdgirl35 (Amanda Lynn) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, I can say I love this story. This short Christmas second chance at love is completely amazing. Follows the story of Jason a firefighter and how he gets completely ambushed by his fiancé and best friend. He lives his hometown and doesn’t come back til his dad needs him. Then comes in Quinn his ex best friend’s little sister who has been helping out Jason’s father over the years. They get to talking and have a thing.. found out if they have a family ending or not. Definitely check out this short love story you won’t be disappointed.

[Nikki_Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

OMG!!! WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.

Jason and Quinn knew one another growing up he was her brother's best friend. Until Jason was suppose to marry his college girlfriend. Jason overheard them in the closet and called the wedding off. Jason wanted to move to Sycamore Mountain, but his ex-fiancée didn't want to, so when he called off the wedding he headed there. Jason moved up in the fire department quickly, he swore off woman since the one he loved cheated. When Jason gets a phone call from back home in Magnolia Point he needs to help out his father who fell and needs hip surgery. Quinn's been in college when she comes back home she wants to help out around Magnolia Point, her father's the mayor. Quinn gets a job promoting Magnolia Point and has the idea to have a bathtub festival to promote tourism. Jason gets a phone call from Layton Beards and Broken Hearts asking him if he would like to work at the Magnolia Point fire department while he's in town helping out his father. When Jason agrees only to help his career back in Sycamore Mountain he heads to the fire station. Quinn's goes to the fire state to talk to Layton about the festival and promotion the fire department, she has ideas of a calendar. While Quinn talks to Layton Jason comes, she can't believe her childhood crush is back. Quinn tries to get Jason to be Mr. December but he refuses. Quinn gets a help from some of the local businesses and local shelters. Jason works on his father's Christmas tree farm and helps his father in his recovery. When Quinn runs into Jason again and asks him about being Mr. December he refuses once again, but this time he tells her she needs to stop. Quinn gets upset with Jason and leaves, while Layton has a talk to Jason about the way he talk to Quinn. Jason finds out about his ex-best friend who married his ex-fiancée, they are now divorced while a daughter with cerebral palsy and the mother wants nothing to do with her daughter, Joy. Jason heads to Quinn's house to apologies by find her brother, Ian coming out who gives him a few words. Next Quinn's father comes and tells Jason she doesn't want any visitors, so he asks him to tell her he was there. Quinn knows she needs to get over her crush on Jason and get over him. Quinn likes to met with her best friend Callie and go out, while she's dancing Jason comes up behind her. Jason apologize to Quinn then dances with her, he tells her she's going to need a ride home and he'd like to help. Quinn gets the calendars all printed up and when they are delivered the first person she shows is her father who is with Jason's father. Quinn rushes over to show them when Jason comes out of the kitchen. Jason gets his father and Quinn's father settled and then asks Quinn if she'd like to go for a ride. Jason takes Quinn out to the Christmas Tree farm where he sets up a picnic for them to share while watching the stars. Jason kisses Quinn, then he pleasures her then they make love. A few days later, it's time for the festival and Quinn goes on a run to release some of her pent up energy. While Quinn is running she gets a cramp, Jason is there and helps her. Quinn goes around checking in on all the business to make sure they're ready of the big day. Quinn goes by the fire department where the local shelter has their animals up for adoption. All the calendars and guys are out getting donation for the fire department. Jason asks Quinn to met her at the tree lighting later in the day. Quinn needs to check on a few on the businesses and gets her golf cart stolen, and she is stranded. It's time for the tree lightening ceremony and Quinn can't get to it. When Quinn arrives she's too late and finds out that Jason left to go back home to Sycamore Mountain before he said goodbye. Quinn goes home and cries but realizes it was only a fling they had. Three weeks later, Quinn is watching a movie when someone comes knocking on her door. Quinn opens the door to find Jason with a bouquet of flowers. Jason asks Quinn if she would go with him so they can talk. Jason takes Quinn to his father's Christmas tree farm, he explains to her why he left without saying goodbye. Jason explains that he wasn't looking for her when he came back to Magnolia Point he just wanted to go back home to Sycamore Mountain. Jason didn't want to ask Quinn to do a long distance relationship when they only just met. Jason tells Quinn he doesn't know what he would do if she ever left him he feels empty inside without her now. Quinn tells Jason she knows it's only been a few weeks but she feels like she's loved him since they were first introduced by her brother. Quinn tells Jason that if he'd asked her to do long distance and then eventually join him she would jump at the chance, she knows how much he loves Sycamore Mountain. Jason tells her he loves her and Quinn tells him she loves him. Jason and Quinn make love under the stars at the Christmas Tree farm. Three months later, Quinn comes to visit Jason in Sycamore Mountain and she has her best friend Callie. Jason is captain now of Sycamore Mountain fire department. They're making the long distance work for them. Jason asks Quinn to live with him full time but he wants her to make sure this is what she wants to move away from her family. Before Jason buys her a ring he wants to know she's all in because he wouldn't be able to take it if she turned him down. Jason tells Quinn he'd move back to Magnolia Point for her, Quinn tells him she doesn't need to think about it he's all she ever wanted. Quinn tells Jason she'll willing to do whatever it takes to chase her Mr. December.

[Gerardine Noonan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh Ladies, this will give you all the Feels!

We take a little trip back to Sycamore Mountain where all those Fine as all That Firemen are that we have met in previous books.

Jason Bristow is what you would definitely call a Fine Speciman of a Fireman if ever there was one!

He has really worked hard the last few years to push him up the ranks of the Fire station and gets called into the Chiefs office with an offer of a Promotion. He is beyond delighted with this turn of events and tells him it would be an Honour to be put forward for the Job in question.
A little after that conversation he gets a call that his Dad back in Magnolia Point has had a fall, needs surgery on his hip but also needs him to come home and cover the Christmas Tree Farm while his Dad is recovering.

That is something he does not want to do but knows he has too, as his Dad needs his help. Jason hasn't the best memories of Magnolia Point. He was due to get married there a few years ago and walked in on the worst conversation of his life the night before the wedding.
He lost a lot that night and is still very bitter over what happened. (Will leave you to read the full story on this and not ruin it for you)

While back at home, he ends up being roped into working some shifts at the local Fire house as they are short staffed.

Quinn has come back from College and has been given the task by her Dad the Local Mayor of raising money for the Fire house and the local Animal Shelter. Neither of these tasks any easy one but she does love a challenge! In her dealings with the Fire house she comes up with a Calendar idea like the Aussie Fire men do incorporating the Animals in it to boost sales to help out both places. She has every month sorted except for Mr December. She asks Jason to pose for that Month and he adamantly refuses to do it because of reasons that he thinks are justified. No one else thinks he is right though and this is why she ends up Chasing Mr December to try and get him on her side and get his photo done.

There is an instant Chemistry between them but because of Old Wounds and the fact that he is leaving again in a few weeks to head back to Sycamore Mountain, Jason does not want to persue anything. That eventually goes by the way side though!

I won't say anymore but just let me tell you, you are going to love this book and all it's Christmas Feels xx

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

"I want to be where you are, Jase."~Quinn

This is suchhh a good book!! I started reading and I could NOT put it down. Nope. Had to finish it. This isn't one to just stop and walk away from. I mean, you could.. but... you'd want to run right back to it.😄 It reads smoothly with the building blocks of anticipation and interaction. Jason, ooooh, that attractive fireman, all jaded and grumpy bear attitude will both push your buttons and then you'll want to kiss his face. Isn't that right, Quinn?! I see you girl. And I don't blame you one bit.🤣💋💋 Mr December has no idea what's coming his way!!

Jason has past hurts. A serious betrayal that has left him stuck and unhealed. He returns back home to watch over his Dad, Calvin, who fell and injured his hip. He also helps out at the local firehouse and the Christmas tree farm. The small town holds bitter memories for him. Which is understandable. He runs into short stuff, the younger sister of his former best friend Ian. Only short stuff is now a tall stunning woman. He likes her but will never admit it. He can't like her much less want her. She's related to his enemy. Jason is frustrating, and yes, a bit mean, but you know how it goes. You end up liking the man. I certainly did. He's also naughty.😈

"Oh this sweet p**** my new favorite snack. Marshmallows, cupcake icing, and you."~Jason

Quinn is such a sweetheart. She's a girl's girl. She helps others, including Calvin, her friend Callie, the entire firehouse Station 803 with a calendar, and helping animals get adopted. I want to adopt George btw.🙋🏻‍♀️🐇 She works in PR. I liked her. She's funny and can't dance at all, but she still tries.💃🏻🫣🤣😜 Quinn is relatable. She knows her worth too. She's always had a crush on Jason, but with the past unresolved, how can she stop her feelings from growing?!

I won't tell you what happens. You have to read it and experience it for yourself. Romance and humor go hand and hand.🤝🏻 I highly recommend. This is my first book by Ms Fox and I loved it. Great job!🎉 Plus, the book cover, with the model Gianni, that man is VERY, and I mean, veryyyyy {{extra y's on that word}} handsome.🥰😘 The tattoos. His eyes. See why Quinn went gaga over 'Jason'. Ohh yess!! Most definitely.🤤🤪😭 Get your book today. Happy reading!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️

🔥🧑🏻‍🚒Thank you to Ms Fox and Bookfunnel for an early book. Thank you again.🙆🏻‍♀️ I'm happily sharing my thoughts on this story.🧑🏻‍🚒🔥

[Andrea Mehalco · Rating 4 out of 5]

L.M. Fox is one of my all-time favorite authors, and Chasing Mr. December absolutely lives up to her usual magic! This is part of the Magnolia Point Man of the Month series, and it’s such a fun, heartfelt read.

Jason Bristow has avoided his hometown for years—and for good reason. He was all set to get married, only to find out his fiancée was cheating on him with his best friend. Now, he’s back because his dad had a health scare and needs help running the family’s tree farm. Jason, a firefighter in Sycamore Mountain and up for a promotion, assists the local fire station while he’s in town

Enter Quinn, the younger sister of his former best friend. She’s working for the town, trying to give it a much-needed image boost, and she’s in charge of creating a calendar featuring the fire department. But she’s missing her Mr. December. Naturally, she wants Jason to fill the role, but he’s shot her down every way he can think of. Despite the rejections, the two can’t deny their instant connection, even with the nearly ten-year age gap and the whole awkward family history thing.

The story’s concept is adorable, and I loved how determined Quinn was—not just in convincing Jason to join the calendar but also in pursuing her feelings for him. Watching Jason finally give in, not only to the calendar but to their chemistry, was so satisfying. The ending was perfect and a great reminder that sometimes the best things take time.

On top of that, their dads were the absolute best, bringing so much warmth and humor to the story. And of course, seeing familiar faces from the Man of the Month series added an extra layer of fun. Another winner from L.M. Fox—I can’t wait for the next one!

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This heartfelt and steamy romance is a standout in the Magnolia Point Man of the Month series. Jason Bristow, a firefighter with a broody demeanor and smoldering charm, reluctantly returns to his hometown to care for his ailing father and help run the family tree farm. Still reeling from his past—a betrayal involving his ex-fiancée and his former best friend—Jason keeps his guard up, even while assisting the local firehouse during his stay.

Quinn, the spirited younger sister of Jason’s ex-best friend, has always had a crush on him. Now all grown up and full of determination, Quinn is spearheading the town’s revitalization efforts, including a firefighter calendar project. She’s set on making Jason her Mr. December, but he refuses at every turn. Despite the tension caused by their shared history and their nearly ten-year age gap, the chemistry between them is undeniable.

The journey from friends-adjacent to lovers is packed with romantic tension, humor, and a touch of angst, all set against the charming backdrop of Magnolia Point. Quinn’s determination and Jason’s slow unraveling of his defenses make their connection feel natural and deeply satisfying. The ending delivers the perfect balance of resolution and warmth, with lovable supporting characters—particularly their dads—adding humor and heart to the story.

If you love small-town romance with a mix of angst, humor, and spice, this is a must-read. L.M. Fox has created another winner, and I can’t wait to see what comes next in this delightful series!

[Kelchickbooklover · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastic, entertaining and heartwarming grumpy-sunshine Christmas story. I am never disappointed when I read a story by Ms. Fox and she delivered a must-read romance with Chasing Mr. December. As I was reading about two people who have a history because of a past situation between the MMC and the brother of the FMC, but it was not a pleasant situation. I could feel the sexual tension between them and how they wanted to cross the line that he never thought he would cross.
Jason had his heart shattered by his ex-fiance and his best friend, Ian. He left Magnolia Point to become a firefighter but finds himself back because of his father. What he didn't want to do was bump into any of the man's family members who ended his engagement. Well, that didn't last long because he came face to face with Quinn, Ian's sister, old feelings came to the surface but there was something about her that had him thinking that maybe she was not like her brother and just maybe there could be something there. The only problem is Jason is leaving to go back home. Quinn knows that she is fighting a losing battle hoping Jason will help with changing the reputation of the fire station. She knows he doesn't want anything to do with the town. When things change, feelings are revealed and hearts are opened to something they never thought would happen.
I highly recommend grabbing this beautifully written and riveting story that can be read all year long.

[Nikki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh I absolutely loved Quinn and Jason together!! I also loved how Layla once again brought us Sycamore Mountain and Magnolia Point! Jason is up for Caption at his station in Sycamore Mountain when his dad breaks his hip so he has to travel back to Magnolia Point to help his dad and also get their Christmas tree farm ready for the holidays. But Jason tries to avoid Magnolia Point, after his humiliating break up with his ex the day before their wedding when he caught his best friend Ian with his fiancé. Quinn is trying to start up her PR business and is tasked with helping to make the fire station look better after some unfortunate events and help the local animal shelter. She decides to do a calendar with the firefighters and animals needing homes and she’s missing December. So when Jason is asked to help the station when they’re short staffed, she has her work cut out for her. He wants nothing to do with her, she’s Ian’s little sister. Jason is a bit of a grinch but it’s clear he’s drawn to her and she still has that teenage crush on him. But where this story goes will leave you in laughs and falling in love with these two. I loved Callie, she was the perfect best friend. I wanted this story to be so much longer but I loved the epilogue!! Can’t wait to read what’s next from Layla!!

[Michelle Marinello · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✨
𝑪𝒉𝒂𝒔𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝑴𝒓. 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓
𝑩𝒚: 𝑳.𝑴. 𝑭𝒐𝒙
𝑷𝒖𝒃𝒍𝒊𝒔𝒉 𝑫𝒂𝒕𝒆: 𝑫𝒆𝒄𝒆𝒎𝒃𝒆𝒓 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ / 𝟓

L.M. Fox knows exactly how to write a 5 star book! This small town firefighter holiday novella has the best tropes: age gap, ex-best friend’s sister, hate to love/grumpy sunshine. Jason & Quinn’s love story is everything. While the two had some friction at first, I really enjoyed the way their relationship developed and the spice was [*chef’s kiss*] just enough! Such a sweet story about letting go of the past and learning to trust again. This book just gives all the good feels.

If you are looking for fun, quick read to get ready for the holiday season, then you need to add this to your list! I promise, you will be swooning over Mr. December❣️

𝑻𝒉𝒂𝒏𝒌 𝒚𝒐𝒖 @authorlmfox 𝒇𝒐𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝑨𝑹𝑪 ❤️ 𝒂𝒍𝒍 𝒕𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔 𝒂𝒓𝒆 𝒎𝒚 𝒐𝒘𝒏 & 𝑰’𝒎 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒗𝒐𝒍𝒖𝒏𝒕𝒂𝒓𝒊𝒍𝒚

#authorlmfox #chasingmrdecember #bookstagram #books #reading #booklover #bookworm #holidayromance #holidaynovella #bookstagrammer #bookish #bibliophile #booksofinstagram #advancereaderscopy #arcreviewer #booksbooksbooks #instabooks #bookcommunity #bookrecommendations #igreads #bookreview #readingtime #bookaddict #bookaholic #readersofinstagram #booklove

[Kasey Mart-Fridley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh my gosh I absolutely loved this story it was such a cute Christmas romance read grumpy firefighter and bubbly business woman age Gap long distance ex-best friends little sister it had everything small town I just I absolutely love everything about it Layla out done herself with this story Jason is a hot tatted and sweet firefighter who had his heart broken by his ex and his best friend and then we have Quinn who was a strong smart and sexy business woman trying to get the town to thrive and when they clash together will it crumble or Will Sparks fly

It was so cute I was giggling I was smiling I was happy I had my heart breaking a little bit for Quinn and Jace or Jason I even got period a little bit and my favorite quote from the whole thing was when he says I feel hollow my head is screaming to stay the course my future is in that mountain town I fell in love with years ago but how do I move forward when my heart is in magnolia point I absolutely screamed at that part and got teary-eyed because that is so romantic and so cute to hear oh great I guess but anyways you know what I mean.

thank you Layla or Ellen Fox for writing such a great Christmas story it was my first one for this year and I have absolutely loved it great way to start off the Christmas 2024 year

[Marni Ortiz · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hooked from the very first page , devouring every single word to the point yes I actually lost track of time !!! Why you ask ? Because it’s just that addicting. Smiling, laughing out loud , crying, yelling and cheering so freaking hard . I really could not have asked for a more perfect holiday read - Fun , Sexy , steamy, heartbreaking and heartfelt moments, filled with angst , humor , witty banter , family and friendships and the most wonderfully written characters you’ll ever meet . I’m such a sucker for a great age gap / ex best friends sister , firefighter, and small town romance and that exactly what Jason and Quinn’s story is . .not sure what it was exactly but these two just grabbed on to my heart so quickly. Maybe it was how likable and relatable they were , maybe it was the inane chemistry between them , maybe it was the challenges they faced together. For what ever reason , I really could not stop myself from falling completely in love with both . L.M Fox has done what and always done !!!! Delivered a unforgettable and unputdownable story that is guaranteed to exceed all your expectations and without a doubt Jedi you up reading well into the early morning hours 🔥🔥🔥💜💜💜💋💋💋

[Sonia · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 *
I love small-town romances, and "Chasing Mr. December" delivered everything I wanted—sweet moments, sizzling chemistry, and just the right touch of drama. If you’re into broody firefighters, and a heroine who knows what she wants, this one’s for you!

Jason left Magnolia Point years ago, heartbroken after a betrayal he never saw coming. Now, he’s back to take care of his father and help out at the local firehouse, but the past still lingers. Enter Quinn—his ex-best friend’s little sister, who’s not so little anymore. She’s smart, determined, and absolutely gorgeous… and she’s had a crush on Jason forever. The only problem? He’s convinced she’s off-limits.

Their dynamic is everything—flirty, frustrating, and filled with that slow-burn tension that makes you want to shake them both until they admit what’s so obvious. Quinn is determined to break down Jason’s walls, and watching him try (and fail) to resist her was just chef’s kiss. Plus, the small-town charm, the holiday vibes, and a few laugh-out-loud moments made this book even better.

If you love a mix of angst, romance, and a hero who thinks he’s immune to love (but totally isn’t), you’re going to adore this one. Trust me, once you start, you won’t want to stop!

[Reading by Deb · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jason has just gotten out of a meeting with the Fire Chief when he gets a call from a woman telling him he was needed at home. His father was in the hospital and needed to have hip surgery after a fall and wouldn't be able to handle their Christmas tree farm during the busiest season of the year.

Besides sneaking in and out of town to visit with his father, Jason hasn't been home in five years. The rage and humiliation still haunt him. The night before his wedding he finds out that his best friend and fiance have been having an affair. An affair that she had intended to continue after their nupials.

But, Fate is still laughing at him. He had focused on advancing his career as a firefighter and a relationship is the last thing he wanted. Especially when he finds out that the woman who called him about his father was none other than his ex-best friend's little sister.

I loved this book! Like all of LM Fox's books Jason and Quinn's story is smoking hot. This book is full of action and full of angst as Jason does everything he can to avoid this feelings for his enemies sister.

Highly recommend!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Magnolia Point

Jason Bristow was set to get married and on his rehearsal night he found out his fiance was cheating on him with his best friend. Jason left town and moved to Sycamore Mountain where his career as a firefighter was top priority. Jason was just called back home to Magnolia Point because his dad fell, broke his hip and needs help with his Christmas tree farm business until he gets back on his feet.
While Jason is in town he's been asked to help out at the fire department since they are short staffed.

Quinn Patterson has had a crush on Jason since she was a teen even though there is a ten year age gap between them.
Quinn is working on getting her PR firm off the ground by coming up with ways to increase the tourism in Magnolia Point and to help the reputation of the fire department. She has come up with doing a firefighter calendar and needs one more guy for the December spot and asks Jason who turns her down.

Can she change Jason's mind and will things change between them?

4 stars
A quick read and cute story.

[Julie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The characters in this book were intense and real. Jason was trying to do the right thing by everyone, yet still trying to take some measure of self-care. Noone was the slightest bit interested in minimizing the impact of his return home on him though. They talked a good game, sure, but actions speak louder than words. Quinn was motivated by her own agenda. Yep, she wanted to help the town, but she really wanted to set herself up with her PR business. Being an irritant and overly pushy with Jason was no big issue for her in the big scheme of things. Having the gaul to cry though? Did she really expect him to react any differently? Her brother getting involved was simply over-the-top. Honestly, from what I gathered, she knew about the relationship and failed to tell him. That gets her involved by default. Just a nasty situation really. I did like how Karma leveled things out though (at least for one of them).

Will Jason give in to Quinn's (and the chief's) badgering? Will he ever make it home? Don't just sit there...😉

[SherrecePQ Tanner · Rating 4 out of 5]

Okay so if you provide me a firefighter, and christmas in a book, of course I will read it. I mean, there is something about a man in uniform *drool.

Jase is said hot firefighter, who has returned to the town he grew up in, to care for his father. He doesn't love it here, in fact, there is a very good reason for that. He is asked to work at the local fire station, okay persuaded, and being the guy he is, he can't say no. But, he doesn't what to sign up for a fundraising calendar.

Cue Quinn, the baby sister of his once best friend, Ian (and what a story that is) but Quinn is no longer just "shorty", she has grown up, and Jase can't help but notice, as much as it irks him. Quinn has always had a crush on Jase, but, she doesn't expect that Jase will be interested, given how things ended with her brother.

But, alot of water has gone under that bridge, and even said firefighter can't contain the fire he feels with Quinn. This was a cute wee novella that just melts in all the right places.

[Shana W · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a fun holiday romance that has likeable characters and is ready to read. There's flirtiness and humour, in addition to a heartbreaking backstory for the MMC. Jason was engaged years before, until his fiancee cheated on him with his best friend. He moved out of Magnolia Point right after and has not dated since. When he had to go back to help his dad out, he was asked to help out at the local fire station temporarily. He came upon Quinn, the little sister of his former best friend; she was doing PR for the town and the fire station. Of course, she's now gorgeous and Jason is immediately attracted to her. I can understand his reluctance to date anyone, particularly her, given his history. Anyone in his situation would be justified having the reaction he did, especially when she continually pushed for him to pose for the fire fighters' calendar. I kept wondering if he would feel compelled to forgive Quinn's brother. You'll have to read the book for more, my lips are sealed!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kristee Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Oh, how I crushed on him. Not only was he dreamy, but he was so kind.”

Quinn has always had a crush on her brother’s best friend growing up. But when things went south for her brother Ian and his best friend Jason that means she lost any contact with Jason as well.
Years later their paths cross again in their small town Magnolia Point. She’s in charge of trying to bring back tourism in her hometown and with her newly acquired marketing degree she got to work. One of her plans is to bring back a more positive attention to the fire station and that includes a firefighter calendar. Everyone is on board except for Jason and now Quinn has to work over time to try and convince him.

Jason didn’t expect the sudden attraction he felt to his ex-best friend’s younger sister. He’s determined to stay away from her and her hot fireman calendar but he also can’t ignore the strong pull he feels towards Quinn. Can he get over the bitterness in his heart and take a chance?

An age gap, brother’s ex best friend romance with all the small town fun, swoon and spice! A story about forgiveness and not settling for anything less than you deserve!

“Don’t settle for breadcrumbs when you deserve the whole bakery.”

[Angela Hodge · Rating 5 out of 5]

“I like to come out here at night. Especially at the end of a long day. Lying here under the stars reminds me of Sycamore Mountain. It’s so peaceful it drowns out… well, anything I don’t want to think about.”

“You kind of have the same effect on me.”

Chasing Mr. December, a Magnolia Point MOTM novella by LM Fox is a sweet and swoony story that will get you right into the Christmas spirit! Jason is a hot firefighter jaded by love and back in his hometown where it all started.

I just loved this story of renewed faith in love and learning to trust again. Both MC’s are sweet and I love how sweet and dedicated Quinn is in helping her town, especially finding homes for the little fur babies. Although we don’t see much of Joy, she’s my favorite character and I can just picture her sweet smiling little face, letting nothing get her down! I recommend for a steamy best friend’s sister Christmas romance with a HEA!

[Liv · Rating 5 out of 5]

⋆｡°✩ Spoiler Free Reviews ⋆｡°✩

I was kindly provided with this book (censorship is BS and I hate it but here we are!)

If Layla Fox has no fans, I’m dead cause HOW DOES SHE DO IT??

Okay so this one for tropes; small town firefighter romance, hate to love, age gap, ex-best friend’s sister, strong willed heroine, Christmas holiday festivities!

There is a spicy scene and WOW it is hot but because its a novella we only get one (cries in Quinn + Jason longing)but its a goodie so don’t worry!

I cannot make my love for the book sound any less like I’m promoting it.. and I am telling you to read it, it’s on KU, and its a damned good book. But I should clarify that whilst this was an ARC, I’m under no obligation to rate this book any higher than my true enjoyment - WHICH WAS CHRISTMAS HOTNESS AND FESTIVENESS SO DIALLED UP TO THE MAXIMUM!!!!

Gah even the angst was perfect, like I hate the cheating trope (not between the two MC’s) but even that added to the gravitas (love that word) of the story! I’m gonna be thinking about Quinn and Jason, and possibly rereading them, for a long time coming!

[Marlene Davis · Rating 4 out of 5]

Six years ago, Jason lived in Magnolia Point, SC and was at rehearsal dinner for his wedding, when he discovered his bride-to-be and his best friend who was also his Best Man were having an affair...calling off the wedding...so he decided to move to his favorite place in the mountains of North Carolina, Sycamore Mountain where he quickly climbed up the ladder in the local fire department, just hearing he was getting captains position on retirement of man currently in post...then gets a call that his dad had fall, broke his hip and needed him to help with the Christmas Tree farm for about six weeks in Magnolia Point...but when he reacquaints himself with people, including Quinn, his ex-best friends sister, he can't help but being attracted, especially with all the plans for race of rubber ducks and fireman's calendars...but you will need to read this cute tale to see what happens. I voluntarily read this book through an Advanced Reader Copy.

[Live2readbookluva · Rating 4 out of 5]

Omg, how does she do it? How do you pack such a great message in a book that’s <200 pages? This was really well done. The story follows the MCs Quinn and Jason. Jason is a heartbroken firefighter who caught his fiancé and bestfriend together on the eve of their wedding. Quinn is a marketing new grad who has landed her first big contract helping to restore tourism. She also happens to be the little sister of Jason’s former BFF. As you can imagine, things were a lil tense. I luv a grump story, and this did not disappoint. I also luved the male calendar idea and its incorporation in the storyline. Talk about a good time! If you’re looking for a quick, well written, holiday novella with great characters which will have you in the feels, READ this!

Themes & Tropes:

🩶Grumpy/ Sunshine
❤️Age Gap
🩷Ex BFF’s Sibling
🩶Small Town Romance
❤️Firefighter MMC
🩷Holiday Festivities
🩶Hate to Love

Overall, loved this read! I will be reading more books by this author.

[Linda Duca · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story. It was cute and I loved the characters. Quinn is a sweet woman who has been in love with her brother' best friend Jason for years. But when Jason catches his fiance with his best friend Ian, Quinn's brother, he wants nothing to do with the whole family.
He moves to Sycamore Mountain to be a firefighter. Six years later, he returns to Magnolia to help his father who has fallen and broke his hip. While there he volunteers with the Magnolia fire department as they are short staffed. Quinn wants to help the fire department raise much needed funds and decides to make a calendar. All she needs is one more - Mr. December. She asks Jason but he tells her "NO". Later he feels bad and tells her he'll do it. Will grumpy Jason fall in love with Quinn? You're have to read this book!!I loved "Chasing Mr. December"!

[Sue Carter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Best friend’s sister seasonal novella. This is part of the ‘Man of the Month’ series set in Magnolia Point. The books are all stand-alone and separate stories. I enjoyed this tale of hunky firefighter, Jason who returns to his home town to care for his father after an operation. I really liked his reaction when he encounters Quinn for the first time in over six years, amazed that the teenager who used to follow him & his (former) best friend has matured into a desirable young woman! I liked the initial friction between them, a result of her brother’s betrayal some years before and her insistence he joins in the local charity firefighter's calendar. I enjoyed the way their relationship develops, despite Jason’s resentence and soon moves to a steamy encounter! An enjoyable grumpy/sunshine romance.

[Stephanie Ditmore · Rating 4 out of 5]

Jason and Quinn have a past, well he has one with her deadbeat brother who was cheating with his fiance and ruined what was supposed to be the happiest day of his life. Quinn is just collateral damage in all of this. Leaving his hometown was all Jason wanted and to make a life for himself anywhere away from Ian and Corrinne. When his father needs him, he can’t say no and travels home only to be hit with all the memories of why he left and when he comes face to face with Quinn he can’t believe she’s all grown up. Quinn is trying to boost tourism back to the town since COVID and putting together a Firefighter Calendar will bring in the bucks, now if she can only get the grumpy hottie to agree it will be perfect. These two are fire, sexy, fun and love how these two connect or should I say reconnect from the past. It helps that she's had a crush on him for years. Great read.