Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Mistletoe Mishap

Rate this book
A slow burn forbidden romance featuring a curvy heroine, her boss and his silver fox stepdad
You’ve probably watched plenty holiday movies and said, “ahh what a sweet love story.” If you have then let me tell you my vacation tale which might not be the norm but who knows, maybe you’ll end it with “OMFG, that’s the story I want for myself.”
Here’s why.
Ever tried slipping a tiny key into a lock you can’t find on a door that you’ve never opened before. If you could, then you must’ve been sober. Try doing it with a few drinks and trust me. You’re bound to land in hot water, literally. But it’s nothing compared to the steam hissing off the silver fox who dropped me into that warm tub or that twist, even sober me, didn’t see coming.
Here’s how.
When my boyfriend put, what I thought was my wedding ring, on my sister’s finger, my broken heart became inconsolable. My boss took it upon himself to cheer me up with three weeks paid leave, a plane ticket to beautiful Lake Placid and the keys to his vacant family lodge. Nothing else I could ask for, right?
Here’s what.
Arriving in the middle of a snowstorm and new to alcohol, a little common sense would’ve known better than to add a couple of whiskeys to my hurting body. Especially when the cabbie stopped at the end of a very long driveway and advised I had to walk the rest of way. In high-heeled boots, a swaying body and two large bags, no thank you. Unfortunately, we don’t always get what we want. Or did I?
Here’s who.
If you like slow burn forbidden stories, open the book and find out. Maybe bring some eggnog, candy cane and a spare panty to hang on their Christmas tree. Yes, you read right. I did say their tree.

408 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 26, 2023

174 people are currently reading
185 people want to read

About the author

Charlene Namdhari

19 books975 followers
I'm not a cliched romance writer.
I write plot-driven, mindfuck stories.
I'm not afraid to push boundaries (check Intoxication, Infallible and Duality)
I write steam like I shower - scalding.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
177 (47%)
4 stars
101 (26%)
3 stars
67 (17%)
2 stars
20 (5%)
1 star
11 (2%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews
Profile Image for Carla .
1,672 reviews537 followers
October 6, 2025
3,5.
It’s a good reading for anyone who wants to pass the time.
It’s worth reading.
Profile Image for LibraryofR.
246 reviews15 followers
January 4, 2024
I have been reading everything by this author since I found her and each book just gets better and better. This book I have laughed, grumbled, got flustered, and cried on. I fell in love with Lucien from the start with his precious heart, and I think I feel in love with Alexander first for his dirty talk 🥵 I loved Lucien’s mom and especially at the end because all she wanted to see was her baby to be happy. I loved loved her female character Alayah, since I can relate so deeply with her. I have been reading MM for almost 2 years and I loved that aspect of this book especially since it was step dad and step son too! There’s so many parts in this I can rave about but her relationship with her bestie was a favorite part and especially the part that happened In Florida. I will re-read this again this year sometime. It’s one of my favorites ever. Great job lady!
Profile Image for thegutsybookworm.
146 reviews10 followers
April 29, 2024
Overall 2 ⭐️
Steam 3 🌶️

Review:
Sadly I am disappointed in this book. I have read Charlene Namdhari’s intoxication series and I was hoping a similar level of depth in this book. However, this book doesn’t seem to match up to the same caliber. It had so much potential and could have been turned into a really gripping story. Alas, It’s riddled with syntax and grammatical errors, cultural incongruence, plot holes, and extremely juvenile characters. For example, the attitude of Alayah’s sister and mother was a little too on the nose. Or Alayah calling virginity “my most prized possession” seems horribly archaic thinking, and for the author to perpetuate such thinking… (it didn’t imply that this was simply the characters belief) is extremely off putting. Furthermore, At 24 alayah’s perception about romantic relationships still reeks of junior high level maturity.

Emotional strife and genuine moral dilemmas are resolved in half a paragraph as if the characters were pretending to be morally conflicted. For example Alayah had a bare five second of regret and angst over sleeping with the husband of a woman she admired and within seconds she was laughing and perfectly ok with that!

On top of all this, phrasing and dialect seemed too South African English rather than American English which goes contrary to the characters’ background of being from Chicago suburbs. Should have used an American English copy editor. For example “fancy dress party” is not a phrase you’d ever hear in the US. There weee numerous sentence constructions that were similarly incongruent with the dialect of English all the characters are supposedly speaking. It’s was jarring to say the least.

If you are here for steam, it’s a decent book, if you are here for any kind of decent story, it’s a sad attempt at best.

Profile Image for Anita.
1,128 reviews1 follower
January 2, 2024
What a read!

Where do I begin, this is definitely a brilliant Age Gap read that is certainly a rollercoaster ride that starts with a 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 prologue that had me saying OMG. So should it be a be forbidden love story no not at all. Lucien sexy hot boss and Alex the sexy silverfox and Alayah who is just sassy and so beautiful inside and out. Charlene definitely delivered her usual fantastic story that will pull you in chew you up and spit you out at the end. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ stars are just not enough in my opinion for this story. I would definitely recommend reading. In fact I would certainly recommend any of Charlene 's books they are all so good.
55 reviews
December 29, 2023
This is an Absolute Gem! Must Read 😁

Wow! Absolutely loved this / devoured it in one day. Whilst this story has a Christmas theme, it’s not a quick short story - it has plot depth, excellent dialogue, lots of intrigue, character development and plenty of Very Hot scenes 🥵. I can’t decide who I like more between Lucien and Alex - they are both off the charts gorgeous and how lucky are we, as readers, to have 2 leading alpha males. The way Charlene approached the heroine, Alayah, was really well done - she is larger in size, realistic and beautiful- smart, normal and a character we can all love. Her interactions with both the male characters is smart. As with previous stories written by Charlene, she pushes boundaries and does it very, very well - this story reminded me of the Serendipity series - which are my all time favourites - so enjoyed that parallel (it’s not linked to that series, just reminded me of it). So, sit back, embrace this story and enjoy - Highly recommend 💕💕
Profile Image for Andrea ( books_fiction_desire ).
675 reviews
January 3, 2024
That might be a slow burn but when the sparks started flying it was explosive. It was a perfect trio.
Alayah was not really comfortable in her own body specially when being bullied by the people who were closest to her. New job gave her opportunity to feel comfortable with herself and to be seen. And oh she was! Having two man salivating after her but only she had no idea that there is someone out there that could love her for who she is as much as Lucian and Alex did. Once that came to surface the story just got extremely explosive. The connection between them was amazing and all the emotions that were involved and not being able to express through the time of their individual suffering came out and it was the best ending for all of them.

I would definitely highly recommend this book! You gonna love it!!!
Profile Image for Tina Walsh.
186 reviews1 follower
January 7, 2024
I am not one for slow burn reads, but after reading If Only by this author. I knew I had to read about Alayah, Lucien and Alex. I knew it would be emotional and unexpected in parts. Charlene has such a way of keeping you intrigued and interested in her stories. I admire the love and determination Charlene puts into her stories. Alayah is a natural and loves wholeheartedly, she has been bullied by her sister and mom for years about her weight, but she has a wonderful father who has always seen her light for life and encouraged that for her. There are great twists and turns in this book that will keep you turning the pages. Two strong Alphas to one beautiful woman. I also love her best friend who was always there for her. The title of this book says it all for me. Loved it from start to finish. It was so hot too. Thank you Charlene for your amazing work. One of my favorite authors to date
Profile Image for Donna reads Romance.
1,043 reviews41 followers
January 7, 2024
This delectable slightly festive, reverse harem romance is amusing, alluring and exciting.
Innocent curvy Alayah has captured the hearts and attention of her boss Lucien and his stepfather Alex, without even knowing it. As for Lucien, he’s also hiding being in love with his stepfather. This delightful forbidden, taboo and age-gap story is filled with dominant dirty talking men and an endearing woman who is learning to love herself for her whole self. The way these men worship Alayah is simply beautiful.
So enjoy this engaging, entertaining and tantalizing book…I sure did!
These characters will enthral you from the very beginning and you can’t help but love them.
Congratulations Charlene🙌🏻 Alayah, Lucien and Alex’s story is fascinating and enticing.
Profile Image for Tasha_loves_to_read .
731 reviews17 followers
January 3, 2024
So I'm the biggest grinch and I actually asked the author how Christmas heavy this book was. Not heavy was her reply and let me tell you it really isn't. It's plot heavy. Me being me had said I'm all christmassed out but I devoured this story. And it was hot AF. You can't help but love all the characters. Apart from the ugly sister. I won't say anymore as I don't want to ruin it but although christmas is over you can still definitely read this!
I will say if you've read the serendipity series then,you'll get the same vibes as me. I don't normally search out or read this trope but I adore charlenes words so had to read it!
74 reviews
January 7, 2024
DEAR STARS ABOVE🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

All I can say is this CHARLENE NAMDHARI IS QUEEN🩷 Mistletoe Mishap is the hottest, sweetest, funniest book to date from Charlene. If only her male heroes were in real life. Alexander and Lucien are insanely hot together, but add the sexy beautiful Alayah and dear mother in heaven😍🔥🔥🩵🫠🫠🫠🩵🩷🩵
Mistletoe Mishap is A MUST READ you will be hooked from page 1. Charlene told each characters story so beautifully capturing each love story and heartbreak. Alayah's father is the father I've always wanted. Please read and then buy Mistletoe Mishap you will not be disappointed🩷
31 reviews1 follower
December 29, 2023
I have been a fan of Charlene’s books for quite some time and eagerly await each new release.
Her Christmas book did not disappoint. I’m sure every size 16+ woman out there can relate to Alayah and the insecurities she felt.
To have 2 totally 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 males who adored her was something she found hard to accept. Charlene let their story unfold as the book progressed. Her story telling is superb and you feel yourself becoming Alayah. I was completely caught up in their love story feeling a full raft of emotions sadness joy and frustration to name just a few.
I can’t wait for her next release
Profile Image for Denise Jessie.
212 reviews10 followers
January 1, 2024
Absolutely loved!!!

First off I absolutely love Charlene's work, so I knew this book was going to be good.
I love that Alayah was plus size, as so am I, but I haven't always been plus size like her. But as an adult alot of her thoughts is a daily for me.
I am a sucker for MM, and absolutely adored both Alex and Lucien, although idk if I can pick a favorite between them!!!
So if you want a hot book with great chemistry between 3 people, definitely go read this book. Then when your done of you haven't read any of her other books, go read them!!!
Profile Image for Melissa .
714 reviews9 followers
January 5, 2024
This was a really slow burn romance. The prologue opens right away to some spice and immediately had me intrigued about the two male characters. I loved how we got povs of all three main characters. I loved seeing how Lucien ended up becoming a part of Alex's life. I adored Alayah. I did struggle with Alayah's mom and sister and the boyfriend. I didn't like how they treated her. Like the author's other books this one had a big plot twist that I couldn't of guessed myself. It was done really well. I also loved the relationship Lucien, Alex and Alayah together. The sizzling chemistry of the three of them was hot!
Profile Image for Chrissy Muñiz.
1 review
December 28, 2023
Speechless

This book warmed my heart, confused me at first but I caught on quickly. The author and her characters, her words. All I can say it left my heart full and teared stained eyes at the love that was felt from reading. But this is my personal opinion. Many blessings to the author❤️
Profile Image for Lindsay Gould.
388 reviews
January 4, 2024
Wow is all I can say loved this book. Omg Lucien and Alex are 🔥 glad to see alyla get her men but I hope you do a book for robin too.
Profile Image for Belinda.
1,156 reviews15 followers
January 7, 2024
Outstanding!! I absolutely loved this book by Charlene who was a new author to me. Hot and sexy this MMF certainly delivered. I am excited to read more from her.
Profile Image for Bookslover09.
847 reviews67 followers
March 31, 2024
slow start

the first half of the book was too slow for me, but the second saved the book I liked, and the spicy was great.
2,737 reviews21 followers
December 31, 2023
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This might be slow burn but the anticipation and chemistry is flaming hot. I love that this is an interesting mix of characters with different ethnicities and backgrounds. Great read anytime of the year!
Profile Image for Namita Sycz.
12 reviews2 followers
December 28, 2023
OMG!!! I love this book. I couldn't put it down. I highly recommend this book. It brought tears to my eyes.
Profile Image for Kim.
220 reviews2 followers
December 31, 2023
Another great read

Cozy heartwarming holiday read that you'll really enjoy. I sure did.

Charlene is a amazing writer and her romances are phenomenal
7 reviews
January 6, 2024
Another collar melting hit from this fabulous author. Couldn't read it quick enough but didn't want it to end. Would have given 10 stars if it was possible. A must read. You won't regret it.
446 reviews
February 11, 2025
Could not put the book down. Facebook ad finally did me right. Alayah, Lucien, and Alexander are a hell of a story.
578 reviews5 followers
January 25, 2024



4.5 stars! A Christmas tale with lots of spice, not everything nice, but full of l❤️ve!

***Sensitive readers beware, this tale might M.€.L.T. your p@nties!***

As the author advertises in the blurb, Mistletoe Misshap is not your traditional Christmas Tale.
It's raw and gritty and even hard, at times, but very fulfilling as the story grows and so does the confidence and metamorphose of our MFC, Alayah, by self-acceptance, self-appreciation and self-loving with a nudge of care, protection and the purest and most undiluted love of all.

Alayah represents one of us at a certain part or point of our lives, directly, in reverse or simply in any other different aspect.
Enduring destructive criticism, mistreatment and envy, not even the fact of being a good and proper young woman saves her from a journey of suffering, self-deprecation and disgust.
She just needed the love and acceptance and that was what she got for Christmas this year!

This is a slooooow buuurn, a very detailed tale with a lot of symbolism in every Mistletoe Misshap that happens in the story.
Three souls entwine almost in a symbiotic way, each with demons of their own, each searching for a meaning for their actions and reactions, each wishing to love and be loved fully and completely.
All the Mistletoe Misshaps express a recognition of the other as a part of the self, mistakes committed in the past, the fear of rejection and the internal turmoil of not understanding the wants, the desire and the will of the heart.

Alayah was the glue that brought it all together, even facing the drama and every revolting hurdle of her routine, she learned to love wholy, with great support from her crazy and amazing bff Robin, Lucien and Alex and her sweet papa, herself first to be able to love the others, with comprehension, approval and willing submission.

In the Christmas spirit, after the aknowledgement, redemption, crazy experiments, 🥵🥵🥵seizing spicy and decadently🥵🥵🥵, lessons learned and taught, it's time for forgiveness and to get the present this Trio was deserving all along, she got the guys and the guys got her and each other!!!

Lucky girl Alayah!

Profile Image for Nikki  M (Hot books and Sassy girls).
1,106 reviews92 followers
February 19, 2024
Mistletoe Mishap by Charlene Namdhari
Alex Kane, a formidable tycoon, encounters Lucien and his mother in a situation that stirs his emotions. Sensing their trauma, he follows his gut and takes them under his wing. Lucien quickly transitions from boyhood to manhood under Alex's mentorship, personifying his assertive image, commanding respect, and making his mark in the business world. But Lucien has a secret and, it causes him heartache. Lucien hires a new secretary, the alluring and vivacious Alayah, whom he finds captivating, yet he refrains from pursuing her romantically for certain reasons. Despite her beauty, Alayah's self-confidence is lacking due to her judgmental mother and sister. Alex, on meeting Alayah is smitten by her charm and desires her even at the risk of complicating matters. Alayah, burdened by body image, grapples with insecurities. Even though she has a boyfriend, she has not acted on her desires.
Lucien wrestles with conflicting emotions and starts to harbor unjust animosity towards Alex. As the plot unfolds, the true motivations of the characters emerge, adding layers to the intricate dynamics of the story. In true Charlene fashion, nothing is as it seems, and when the plot twist happens, you will be shocked. Alayah is a beautiful character that you will fall in love with. Her personality shines through at every given moment. Alex was a layered character, that at times came across as self-centered, but was he? Lucien stole the show, and I had so much empathy for him. It all started with a locked kiss beneath the mistletoe, and ended with one, but who was kissing who? Overall, an entertaining and tantalizing read, that will captivate you from beginning to end.
Profile Image for Ana Rita.
1,772 reviews41 followers
February 25, 2024
I've had this book waiting to be read for so long but unfortunately, life got in the way and I was unable to read it sooner.
I've had some bad bad days but life must go on and it's so so good to be able to start doing what I love so much.
I love to read and Charlene knows how to write the book I love.
Have you had the chance to read any of her books?
Oh guys, you need to, and soon. You won't regret it.
Mishap is the book that I've just finished and explores the lives of Lucien, Alex, and Alayah.
Alayah had been bullied due to her weight by her mom and sister and that left some traumas. She doubts herself and her self-esteem is non-existent.
When she starts a new job...
Oh my... I'm still shaking. Jesus this book was hot... so freaking hot.
What to do when you're desired by not one, but two men... Oh boy...
Let's talk about a steamy-as-hell book.
This book was so freaking hot that I advise you to have a few changes of panties... just saying.
This story was so perfect that I didn't want it to end.
Guys, I was so into the book that I've read it in one sitting... Guess what time I went to bed... I didn't... When I glanced at the clock it was time to get ready to go to work...
Do I regret it? Absolutely not...
Every book from this author does this to me. She's so freaking good.
Can't wait for everyone to read it and tell your thoughts about it.
ANother masterpiece Charlene... Dayum, what a book.
1,193 reviews10 followers
January 21, 2025
Such a great story

Mistletoe Mishap is a beautifully crafted story of love, healing, and the unbreakable bond formed between three souls who have endured immense hardship. Alayah, Lucien, and Alexander each have their own painful pasts, but together, they find solace, strength, and a love that is both powerful and transformative.

Lucien and Alexander’s relationship is built on years of silent yearning. After Lucien’s traumatic childhood, he and Alexander kept their feelings hidden, afraid of rejection despite their deep connection. Their love was always there, simmering beneath the surface, waiting for the right moment. That moment arrives with Alayah.

Alayah’s life was no less heartbreaking, shaped by the cruelty of her mother and sister. Yet, despite her struggles, she remains resilient. When she enters Lucien and Alexander’s world, the two men instantly recognize what she means to them. She becomes the missing piece of their love.

This story is more than just romance; it’s a journey of loss, healing, and self-discovery. The way these three characters come together, not just as lovers but as a true family, is deeply moving. Their love is raw and real, proving that sometimes, the greatest happiness comes after the deepest pain.

Mistletoe Mishap is a heartfelt, emotional read that captures the beauty of love in all its forms. If you enjoy stories of found family, second chances, and soul-deep connections, this book is a must-read.
Profile Image for Karla.
170 reviews14 followers
December 20, 2025
3.5🌟

Dedication

To all my curvy girls... If you’re working on loving yourself, I’m proud of you because that shit’s hard to do. Remember though... You’re big, you’re blessed and you’re beautiful, embrace it, princess, because let’s face it, you have a whole lot more sexiness to offer. Love you...

Favorite quotes

“Love that person in the mirror, babe because she’s been through so much and she’s still standing here today. Each stretch mark has its own chapter, and this stunning body is waiting for you to give it the story it deserves. You’re beautiful.”

“Firstly, you’re not fat. You’re curvier. Second, you’re not sanctified with a stigma, you’re blessed with a beauty so profound, that it’s easy to ignore your size. Third, you’re intelligent, a fast learner, and efficient, all that outranks your body and your beauty, simply because you stand next to me in times of crises, not behind me. That alone tells people the power you hold over a man who runs a multimillion-dollar business. You’re easily replaceable, Miss Patel but you’re indispensable. To me. So, the next time you call yourself fat, take a moment to assess exactly what you do for me. I know I do. Lastly, embrace your curves because let’s face it, you have a whole lot more to offer than the average woman.”

“In a world filled with bitter people, we just have to look inside ourselves to find the sweetness we desire but cake helps too.”

“I am phat as in p-h-a-t. Pretty hot and tempting.”
Profile Image for MaryLovesRomance.
873 reviews9 followers
December 23, 2025
No from me.

I forget all of the characters names but it’s basically a plus sized heroine who is insecure and the two men, stepfather and stepson, who love each other and her.

This book summary talked a big game. It promised a sexy weekend that leads to love between these three characters after the heroine finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her with her bitch of a sister. Technically that did happen…but not until we had to slog through 60% of the book with the heroine still being with her boyfriend and emotionally and physically cheating on him with these two men because apparently kissing and touching don’t count unless it is full penetrative sex. Whatever this book was selling, I was definitely not buying.

Not only that! But at the end the whole bitchy sister and cheating ex plot line was completely wrapped up and all was forgiven in the span of about two pages. Just no. These people were unforgivable! I needed them to get theirs and then come crawling for forgiveness after learning some hard lessons.

The actual romance of this book just felt like a novella. If you cut the scenes where the main characters are together in the present, it was probably less than 30% of the book. Because of that, I just didn’t feel the emotion. The stakes just weren’t high enough and I didn’t believe the emotion, at least toward the heroine.

I wouldn’t read this again. I honestly expected more based on the summary.
Profile Image for Melinda  Parker.
1,299 reviews22 followers
January 15, 2024
Charlene Namdhari never fails to bring the heat and a rollercoaster ride of emotions with her stories.

This was a slow burn, with a bit of heartbreak sprinkled in. We’re introduced to Alex Kane, an older and dominating man. Then we have Lucien Kane, a replica of Alex Kane but with a softer side for those he loves. And finally Alayah, a very profound woman that battles to find her true worth even though others are under her spell.  These three struggle with their feelings, their shortcomings, and their desires. They cross lines, struggle to understand desires, and put those they love ahead of their own feelings, until it all becomes too much. Eventually, they all have to face the truth.

While all three characters held their own, my book heart fell and felt for Lucien. He possessed a strength from the beginning that made his character so potent. Be prepared for a wild ride!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 64 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.