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Abieville Love Stories #4
That Time We Kissed Under the Mistletoe
My holly jolly Christmas just went up in smoke. Literally …
Playing nursemaid to Bradford “Three” Fuller is the last thing I need for Christmas.
But for the next few days, I’m stuck in charge of my ex’s sparkling eyes, his ridiculous abs, and his (mostly) accidental kisses.
I don’t have a choice.
You see, Three’s only hurt because of me. And not like he hurt me a decade ago. Like … I literally concussed the man with a fire extinguisher.
Still, a make-or-break mission for my parents is what brought me back to the small town where he crushed my tender heart in the first place.
And if I screw up, I risk my mother’s approval plus the job at my father’s law firm I’ve worked for my entire life.
So I sure hope Santa stuffs my stocking full of self-control. And a defibrillator.
Because my heart just may be broken by this second chance with Three …
That Time we Kissed Under the Mistletoe is a full-length, closed-door romantic comedy in the Abieville Love Stories series, but the book can be enjoyed as a standalone.
As with all Julie Christianson’s romcoms, you’ll find plenty of sizzling chemistry, but no content beyond kisses.
* Second chance romance
* Small-town Christmas
* Forced Proximity
* Trapped together
* Only one couch
* He rescues her
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
Playing nursemaid to Bradford “Three” Fuller is the last thing I need for Christmas.
But for the next few days, I’m stuck in charge of my ex’s sparkling eyes, his ridiculous abs, and his (mostly) accidental kisses.
I don’t have a choice.
You see, Three’s only hurt because of me. And not like he hurt me a decade ago. Like … I literally concussed the man with a fire extinguisher.
Still, a make-or-break mission for my parents is what brought me back to the small town where he crushed my tender heart in the first place.
And if I screw up, I risk my mother’s approval plus the job at my father’s law firm I’ve worked for my entire life.
So I sure hope Santa stuffs my stocking full of self-control. And a defibrillator.
Because my heart just may be broken by this second chance with Three …
That Time we Kissed Under the Mistletoe is a full-length, closed-door romantic comedy in the Abieville Love Stories series, but the book can be enjoyed as a standalone.
As with all Julie Christianson’s romcoms, you’ll find plenty of sizzling chemistry, but no content beyond kisses.
* Second chance romance
* Small-town Christmas
* Forced Proximity
* Trapped together
* Only one couch
* He rescues her
NO THIRD ACT BREAKUP
338 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 1, 2024
117 people are currently reading
518 people want to read
About the author
Julie Christianson
16 books616 followersJulie Christianson writes sweet romantic comedies—but only when she’s not reading them. Born and raised in the suburbs of Los Angeles, she loves her hilarious family, her three crazy rescue dogs, and laughing at her own jokes.
Julie dreamed of being an author the first time she held a crayon, and after the library where she worked closed in 2020, she decided to try her hand at penning her own small-town romcoms.
She’s a former high school English teacher and lapsed marathon runner, the mother of two great kids, and the wife of one very funny man. Her goal is to write books that make you laugh out loud, fall in love, and live happily ever after.
To connect with Julie, follow her on instagram (@juliechristiansonauthor), Facebook (@juliechristiansonauthor) or visit her website, juliechristianson.com.!
Julie dreamed of being an author the first time she held a crayon, and after the library where she worked closed in 2020, she decided to try her hand at penning her own small-town romcoms.
She’s a former high school English teacher and lapsed marathon runner, the mother of two great kids, and the wife of one very funny man. Her goal is to write books that make you laugh out loud, fall in love, and live happily ever after.
To connect with Julie, follow her on instagram (@juliechristiansonauthor), Facebook (@juliechristiansonauthor) or visit her website, juliechristianson.com.!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 156 reviews
January 2, 2025
Hey Siri, play “All I Want for Christmas by Mariah Carey”!
This book gives all the holiday vibes, while still standing on its own romance feet.
First (and only) love stories are so sweet! This one pulled at the heartstrings. Seeing Three & Sara realize their greatest heartbreak made them into the people they are now, and how much they still loved each other was so sweet.
Their “forced proximity” situation was amusing! *note to self: never run into a smoking building wearing a hoodie*
Their time reconnecting was so sweet, and seeing Sara get to experience a different type of Christmas was special.
I loved the conversations they each had with their trusted friends/family, and the honest conversations they had with their parents and each other.
It was a sweet story and I’m excited to visit Abieville again soon!
4/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
This book gives all the holiday vibes, while still standing on its own romance feet.
First (and only) love stories are so sweet! This one pulled at the heartstrings. Seeing Three & Sara realize their greatest heartbreak made them into the people they are now, and how much they still loved each other was so sweet.
Their “forced proximity” situation was amusing! *note to self: never run into a smoking building wearing a hoodie*
Their time reconnecting was so sweet, and seeing Sara get to experience a different type of Christmas was special.
I loved the conversations they each had with their trusted friends/family, and the honest conversations they had with their parents and each other.
It was a sweet story and I’m excited to visit Abieville again soon!
4/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All opinions are my own*
December 24, 2025
CUTE AND LIGHT.
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Sometimes what you need is a cute holiday romance and this hit that spot for me. I enjoyed the audiobook too (though I struggled with the FMC narrator a little). I haven’t read the other books in this series and had no issues loving on this one. It can easily be read as a standalone.
I loved all of the forced proximity moments for this second chance duo. The small town atmosphere with the holiday cheer was sweet and made for a nice listen. I loved that this was soft. Sara and Three were clearly into each other [again] from the moment they saw each other and I was smitten with the quiet scenes between them.
The lack of third act break-up was perfect. I loved that there was still character growth and tough conversations and the slight build of tension you need, but without the drama that can be oh so frustrating. I was charmed and another great read for my Christmas romance list.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Sometimes what you need is a cute holiday romance and this hit that spot for me. I enjoyed the audiobook too (though I struggled with the FMC narrator a little). I haven’t read the other books in this series and had no issues loving on this one. It can easily be read as a standalone.
I loved all of the forced proximity moments for this second chance duo. The small town atmosphere with the holiday cheer was sweet and made for a nice listen. I loved that this was soft. Sara and Three were clearly into each other [again] from the moment they saw each other and I was smitten with the quiet scenes between them.
The lack of third act break-up was perfect. I loved that there was still character growth and tough conversations and the slight build of tension you need, but without the drama that can be oh so frustrating. I was charmed and another great read for my Christmas romance list.
Overall audience notes:
- Contemporary Holiday Romance
- Language: none
- Romance: kisses
October 1, 2024
"All I Want for Christmas is You."
Truer words never belted out, Mariah.
Okay, friends...everything you've been loving about Abieville is back and better than ever!!
The banter, the swoon, the SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE is everything I hoped it would be. Julie Christianson is a MUST-READ, AUTO-BUY author that I can easily recommend everything she has ever written.
This is my first holiday read of the year and this book has set a HIGH BAR for all future Christmas reads.
This book is snappy, engaging and swoony to the max. If you enjoy holiday reads, loveable characters (and side characters) while escaping to a beautiful setting and feeling all of the feels then this is the book for you!
This one is available now and well worth the read! All of the stars, all of the feels and the perfect way to usher in the Christmas season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: mild innuendo, off-page mention of pregnancy troubles, romance-kisses including make-outs and spending nights together in the same house (no intimacy).
Truer words never belted out, Mariah.
Okay, friends...everything you've been loving about Abieville is back and better than ever!!
The banter, the swoon, the SECOND CHANCE ROMANCE is everything I hoped it would be. Julie Christianson is a MUST-READ, AUTO-BUY author that I can easily recommend everything she has ever written.
This is my first holiday read of the year and this book has set a HIGH BAR for all future Christmas reads.
This book is snappy, engaging and swoony to the max. If you enjoy holiday reads, loveable characters (and side characters) while escaping to a beautiful setting and feeling all of the feels then this is the book for you!
This one is available now and well worth the read! All of the stars, all of the feels and the perfect way to usher in the Christmas season!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Content/Trigger: mild innuendo, off-page mention of pregnancy troubles, romance-kisses including make-outs and spending nights together in the same house (no intimacy).
September 20, 2024
The next book in the Abieville Love stories is here! I love Ms. Christianson’s books and this one was no different. She creates such charming and adorable stories.
It was so fun to return to this town! I adore the small-town feel of it. Sara and Three had a lot of history to overcome and they had both changed as people. Sara was such a sweet character. She definitely struggled with confidence and understanding what she truly wanted for her life. Even though her family loved her, she felt the pressure of their expectations. Sara had to discover for herself what her life was going to be and what she would pursue.
Three was so lovely! I was so excited to see him again and he was sweet with Sara. He really cared about her and wanted to support her. He also had to learn what his future would look like. He had found a place for himself in his home town, but his life was shaken up by Sara’s return. They were really cute as they tried to discover what their relationship would look like. They had to learn to trust each other again.
Three’s family was so fun! As always, they are hilarious and so sweet. I also enjoyed seeing some of Sara’s friends and family. There were a lot of fun adventures that Sara and Three had as they reconnected. I love the romcom shenanigans! The Christmas setting was lovely and made me excited for the upcoming winter season. I was also excited to see the hints of a future story.! This is a sweet romcom that is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. There is only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
It was so fun to return to this town! I adore the small-town feel of it. Sara and Three had a lot of history to overcome and they had both changed as people. Sara was such a sweet character. She definitely struggled with confidence and understanding what she truly wanted for her life. Even though her family loved her, she felt the pressure of their expectations. Sara had to discover for herself what her life was going to be and what she would pursue.
Three was so lovely! I was so excited to see him again and he was sweet with Sara. He really cared about her and wanted to support her. He also had to learn what his future would look like. He had found a place for himself in his home town, but his life was shaken up by Sara’s return. They were really cute as they tried to discover what their relationship would look like. They had to learn to trust each other again.
Three’s family was so fun! As always, they are hilarious and so sweet. I also enjoyed seeing some of Sara’s friends and family. There were a lot of fun adventures that Sara and Three had as they reconnected. I love the romcom shenanigans! The Christmas setting was lovely and made me excited for the upcoming winter season. I was also excited to see the hints of a future story.! This is a sweet romcom that is part of a series, but can be read as a standalone. There is only kissing.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
October 1, 2024
I’ve never been more happy to be back in Abieville Valley! Especially with Three Fuller! Oh.My.Goodness! He’s just so stinking adorable! I couldn’t have picked a better story to be my first Christmas read of the year!
There was so much to love about this one! Sara has returned to Abieville to do a favor for her parents and she has one goal…avoid Three. But fate has other plans. And their reunion was a doozy, in more ways than one!
Three ended things with Sara ten years ago, thinking he was doing the right thing for her. So, when she is stuck caring for Three while his family is on a cruise, feelings start creeping back and the forced proximity makes for so many hilarious moments!
I loved how these two cared for each other. The tenderness and affection they shown was just heart-melting. Especially in the small things they would do to make each other happy. It was just sweetness overload!
This second chance romance was full of all the banter, tension, chemistry, shenanigans, sizzling kisses, lovable side characters and so much more! The swoon factor was out the roof!! I couldn’t get enough of Sara and Three! And I know you won’t either!
This is the middle of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone, but trust me you will want to read them all!! And I’m crossing my fingers a certain couple (ahem..Nella and Carver😉) are next!!!!!!
What to love:
🎄The hilarious re-meet cute
⛄️High school sweethearts
🎄She takes care of him
⛄️Loopy Three
🎄Snowball fight
⛄️Henry
🎄Flashbacks
⛄️Second chances
🎄Popcorn garland
⛄️Grilled Cheese Sandwich
🎄Mistletoe kiss
⛄️One couch
🎄The Storage Room scene
⛄️Operation Surprise Sara
🎄The cuff
⛄️The Epilogue
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
There was so much to love about this one! Sara has returned to Abieville to do a favor for her parents and she has one goal…avoid Three. But fate has other plans. And their reunion was a doozy, in more ways than one!
Three ended things with Sara ten years ago, thinking he was doing the right thing for her. So, when she is stuck caring for Three while his family is on a cruise, feelings start creeping back and the forced proximity makes for so many hilarious moments!
I loved how these two cared for each other. The tenderness and affection they shown was just heart-melting. Especially in the small things they would do to make each other happy. It was just sweetness overload!
This second chance romance was full of all the banter, tension, chemistry, shenanigans, sizzling kisses, lovable side characters and so much more! The swoon factor was out the roof!! I couldn’t get enough of Sara and Three! And I know you won’t either!
This is the middle of a series, but can be read as a stand-alone, but trust me you will want to read them all!! And I’m crossing my fingers a certain couple (ahem..Nella and Carver😉) are next!!!!!!
What to love:
🎄The hilarious re-meet cute
⛄️High school sweethearts
🎄She takes care of him
⛄️Loopy Three
🎄Snowball fight
⛄️Henry
🎄Flashbacks
⛄️Second chances
🎄Popcorn garland
⛄️Grilled Cheese Sandwich
🎄Mistletoe kiss
⛄️One couch
🎄The Storage Room scene
⛄️Operation Surprise Sara
🎄The cuff
⛄️The Epilogue
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 2, 2024
Don't you just adore a book that leaves you happy and smiling? Not necessarily giddy, but just so content. This is that book.
Listen. I'm not a Christmas book reader unless it's AFTER Thanksgiving (I'm looking at you, V!). But with this book, it didn't even occur to me that I was READING a Christmas story. It was just another week or two in Abieville, one of my favorite towns to visit.
This second chance romance had me both grinning and holding my head at the...re-meet cute. And the way everything transpired after that? I'm just over here happy sighing. And that last line? Absolute perfection!
So. Will there ever be a book of Julie Christianson's that I won't read? Nope, thanks. 😉
~I'm on her ARC team, but I purchased a paperback copy. So...there you have it.~
Listen. I'm not a Christmas book reader unless it's AFTER Thanksgiving (I'm looking at you, V!). But with this book, it didn't even occur to me that I was READING a Christmas story. It was just another week or two in Abieville, one of my favorite towns to visit.
This second chance romance had me both grinning and holding my head at the...re-meet cute. And the way everything transpired after that? I'm just over here happy sighing. And that last line? Absolute perfection!
So. Will there ever be a book of Julie Christianson's that I won't read? Nope, thanks. 😉
~I'm on her ARC team, but I purchased a paperback copy. So...there you have it.~
October 1, 2024
I loved being back in Abieville for this super sweet and fun second chance, forced proximity romance.
Things I Loved:
-Great smoldering reindeers
-Hairy
-Nope, thanks.
-Forever too soon
-For the kids 😘😂
-Merry Hawaiian Christmas luau
-Grilled cheese
-Secret room
-Operation Surprise Sara
-My Little Pony
-Original Fuller House hug
-Home Alone
-The end!
Flashback journal entires, fantastic tension, funny texts, and the hilarious and heartwarming Fuller family for the win. You do not want to miss out on this swoony read!
Things I Loved:
-Great smoldering reindeers
-Hairy
-Nope, thanks.
-Forever too soon
-For the kids 😘😂
-Merry Hawaiian Christmas luau
-Grilled cheese
-Secret room
-Operation Surprise Sara
-My Little Pony
-Original Fuller House hug
-Home Alone
-The end!
Flashback journal entires, fantastic tension, funny texts, and the hilarious and heartwarming Fuller family for the win. You do not want to miss out on this swoony read!
December 24, 2024
Simply wow! I love second chance at love stories and this is one of the best I’ve read. I bought this book when it released in print form, but actually ended up listening to it on audio because I really enjoy good audio books. The narrators did a fabulous job on this one and it was so fun to listen to.
I loved the way these two still felt about each other, the very understandable reason that Three broke up with Sara ten years earlier, the forced proximity situation they found themselves in, and the cute laugh out loud and “nope thanks” moments that occurred throughout the book. Those “nope thanks” definitely had me chuckling.
I appreciated the way these two communicated with each other once Three got up the nerve to explain why he broke Sara’s heart all of those years ago. I loved the gestures that Sara and Three did for each other. And I appreciated the way Sara ended up communicating with her parents about everything, too.
I adore epilogues and this book has a great one! But don’t miss the bonus epilogue that the author offers. Wow! It’s an absolutely wonderful bonus epilogue that was both funny and beautifully emotional, too. I loved this story and can’t recommend it enough.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
I loved the way these two still felt about each other, the very understandable reason that Three broke up with Sara ten years earlier, the forced proximity situation they found themselves in, and the cute laugh out loud and “nope thanks” moments that occurred throughout the book. Those “nope thanks” definitely had me chuckling.
I appreciated the way these two communicated with each other once Three got up the nerve to explain why he broke Sara’s heart all of those years ago. I loved the gestures that Sara and Three did for each other. And I appreciated the way Sara ended up communicating with her parents about everything, too.
I adore epilogues and this book has a great one! But don’t miss the bonus epilogue that the author offers. Wow! It’s an absolutely wonderful bonus epilogue that was both funny and beautifully emotional, too. I loved this story and can’t recommend it enough.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
September 20, 2024
I don’t know what kind of magic Julie Christianson puts in her books, but somehow every time I read a new one, it becomes my favorite. Three & Sara are now my favorites. I love their second chance story!
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Sara is back in Abieville for the first time in 10 years, and within an hour, Three – the boy who broke her heart 10 years ago – is unconscious on her floor. And it’s all because she wanted some impulse brownies.
Three & Sara’s story gave me everything I want in a great second chance story and then some. Their chemistry. The longing. The tension. A small town Christmas setting, which is just my favorite. Any Gilmore Girls fans here? You know Lorelai Gilmore’s “I smell snow” moments? Where she’s just happy because the snow is coming? That was me with this book. It was like my very own “I smell snow” moment. It just made my heart so happy. If it wasn’t obvious already – highly recommend!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: 0/5 (Closed-Door)
Sara is back in Abieville for the first time in 10 years, and within an hour, Three – the boy who broke her heart 10 years ago – is unconscious on her floor. And it’s all because she wanted some impulse brownies.
Three & Sara’s story gave me everything I want in a great second chance story and then some. Their chemistry. The longing. The tension. A small town Christmas setting, which is just my favorite. Any Gilmore Girls fans here? You know Lorelai Gilmore’s “I smell snow” moments? Where she’s just happy because the snow is coming? That was me with this book. It was like my very own “I smell snow” moment. It just made my heart so happy. If it wasn’t obvious already – highly recommend!
I received an ARC copy of the book and all thoughts are my own.
September 30, 2024
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
These Abieville stories just keep getting better and better! This was everything you’d want in a second chance romance. A new favorite for me from Julie Christianson!
For starters, this book starts off hilariously. I felt bad for Three getting completely wiped out by his old flame…who ironically was trying to put out literal flames from a fire that started in her kitchen, but also…it was funny! Lol Three and Sara had dated a decade prior. Three broke her heart and while plenty of years have since passed, she hasn’t stopped thinking about what could have been.
Three taking a hit to his noggin from a fire extinguisher leads to a concussion and Sara being the only person left in the small town of Abieville who can care for him during the crucial hours following the incident. Three’s family and friends are all off on a tropical cruise for the Christmas holiday. This fun plot leads to even more, well, incidents. LOL
Sara was only supposed to be in town briefly to help take care of some business for her parents who have a rental property in Abieville. She’s waiting for word about a new job offer and a possible move to NY. She was very much hoping to run into Three again though and now that they have reconnected, she’s questioning everything about her future. Such a cozy read for the season, and I just loved how deep and heartfelt these two were as they unpacked the events that led to their breakup a decade prior. Such honest and mature conversations. That’s the kind of stuff that makes me swoon! Real heart to heart convos that make the characters truly come to life. You’re going to adore these two so much.
This is book number four in the Abieville series, but they can absolutely be read as standalones so be sure to get this book onto your holiday TBR!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
These Abieville stories just keep getting better and better! This was everything you’d want in a second chance romance. A new favorite for me from Julie Christianson!
For starters, this book starts off hilariously. I felt bad for Three getting completely wiped out by his old flame…who ironically was trying to put out literal flames from a fire that started in her kitchen, but also…it was funny! Lol Three and Sara had dated a decade prior. Three broke her heart and while plenty of years have since passed, she hasn’t stopped thinking about what could have been.
Three taking a hit to his noggin from a fire extinguisher leads to a concussion and Sara being the only person left in the small town of Abieville who can care for him during the crucial hours following the incident. Three’s family and friends are all off on a tropical cruise for the Christmas holiday. This fun plot leads to even more, well, incidents. LOL
Sara was only supposed to be in town briefly to help take care of some business for her parents who have a rental property in Abieville. She’s waiting for word about a new job offer and a possible move to NY. She was very much hoping to run into Three again though and now that they have reconnected, she’s questioning everything about her future. Such a cozy read for the season, and I just loved how deep and heartfelt these two were as they unpacked the events that led to their breakup a decade prior. Such honest and mature conversations. That’s the kind of stuff that makes me swoon! Real heart to heart convos that make the characters truly come to life. You’re going to adore these two so much.
This is book number four in the Abieville series, but they can absolutely be read as standalones so be sure to get this book onto your holiday TBR!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
December 27, 2024
This was just an okay second chance, closed door, dual POV forced proximity romance for me. It was cute, the characters definitely had chemistry and the story had tons of holiday charm but if I'm honest it won't be a memorable read for me. Good on audio narrated by Amanda Friday and Andy Harrington.
October 7, 2024
Every book that Julie Christianson writes is a gift to readers, and this one was a joy to unwrap. Abieville feels like home at this point, and the Bradford extended family feels like those cousins you just jive with and look forward to seeing at every reunion or holiday. I enjoyed Sara and Three's second-chance romance. The plot felt real and unforced, and the characters were ones I couldn't help rooting for. This is a lovely story to add to any Christmas reading list, even if you've never visited Abieville before.
4.5 Stars, rounded up.
4.5 Stars, rounded up.
October 24, 2024
This book is everything!! I absolutely loved this second chance, Christmas romance from Julie. Every time I read a book from Julie, I think it's my favorite of hers ever. And then I read another one and it's my favorite. This book made me smile and laugh and believe in all the good that love can be!
I loved the Christmas setting and all the fun Christmas scenes and tropes. Christmas decorations, homemade popcorn garland, turkey dinner, ice skating, Christmas movies and of course -- mistletoe. This book has me in a Christmas reading mood in all the best and most cozy ways!
Three is such a fun MMC. I loved getting to know him and learning about his past and his present. He has worked so hard to prove himself to others but also to himself. Seeing the good he is doing in the lives of his students and the people in Abieville is truly beautiful. Also I love his close relationship with his family! His love for Sara is so beautiful and truly a defining part of his character.
Sara was delightful to get to know. I love how complex she is. As we read her story, we learn more and more about her. How much she loves her family. How much she loves Three. What she wants to do in the future. How she sees the past. How she wants the future to look. How kind and generous and honest she is. I just loved her!
Three and Sara's love story is such a beautiful second chance romance. I loved seeing them reconnect and seeing their chemistry ignite again so easily. They see the best in each other and want to build each other up. Through their unexpected Christmas together, they see how much they still mean to each other. And wow do they go through a lot in a short time! I think in those moments of fear and real danger, we learn how strong their love is. And it is strong -- beautiful, deep and strong.
I love the ending!! I love the bonus epilogue! Can't wait for more stories in Abieville!
I loved the Christmas setting and all the fun Christmas scenes and tropes. Christmas decorations, homemade popcorn garland, turkey dinner, ice skating, Christmas movies and of course -- mistletoe. This book has me in a Christmas reading mood in all the best and most cozy ways!
Three is such a fun MMC. I loved getting to know him and learning about his past and his present. He has worked so hard to prove himself to others but also to himself. Seeing the good he is doing in the lives of his students and the people in Abieville is truly beautiful. Also I love his close relationship with his family! His love for Sara is so beautiful and truly a defining part of his character.
Sara was delightful to get to know. I love how complex she is. As we read her story, we learn more and more about her. How much she loves her family. How much she loves Three. What she wants to do in the future. How she sees the past. How she wants the future to look. How kind and generous and honest she is. I just loved her!
Three and Sara's love story is such a beautiful second chance romance. I loved seeing them reconnect and seeing their chemistry ignite again so easily. They see the best in each other and want to build each other up. Through their unexpected Christmas together, they see how much they still mean to each other. And wow do they go through a lot in a short time! I think in those moments of fear and real danger, we learn how strong their love is. And it is strong -- beautiful, deep and strong.
I love the ending!! I love the bonus epilogue! Can't wait for more stories in Abieville!
September 28, 2024
It’s not too early to start reading Christmas books! This one had all the fun holiday cheer and warm family traditions with some second chance romance. Such a fun combination!
The last time Sara was in Abieville was 10 years ago when her heart was broken by her adolescent boyfriend. She was crushed and has moved on with life. The life she and her parents always planned for her is finally happening. She needs to visit Abieville to get her patent’s vacation home approved for a prestigious vacation home company.
Bradford (known as “Three”) was surprised to see Sara again, especially when he regains consciousness after a knock to the head. Because Three’s family is going on a long anticipated family vacation for Christmas, Sara agrees to monitor a concussed Three sustained until he’s able to care for himself.
Forced proximity and Christmas is of course a recipe for rekindling feelings and clearing up the heartache of the past.
I love both forced proximity and second chance romance and the holiday feel made this one even more enjoyable. Nothing quite goes smoothly for Sara or Three, but they make it through stronger together and as individuals.
I loved seeing the growth of Three from his teenage years to adulthood. He definitely redeemed himself. And really, I can’t blame him entirely for how things ended initially.
I really loved Sara’s growth. I loved seeing how she found herself and became more confident in deciding what she wants and going for it. It’s hard to break away from expectations. What part of those expectations pushed us to become better and what part steered us in a direction we don’t want?
I loved all the characters in this book! If you want a Christmas book that sucks you in and makes you fall in love with the characters this is the one!
This book is available October 1st!
The last time Sara was in Abieville was 10 years ago when her heart was broken by her adolescent boyfriend. She was crushed and has moved on with life. The life she and her parents always planned for her is finally happening. She needs to visit Abieville to get her patent’s vacation home approved for a prestigious vacation home company.
Bradford (known as “Three”) was surprised to see Sara again, especially when he regains consciousness after a knock to the head. Because Three’s family is going on a long anticipated family vacation for Christmas, Sara agrees to monitor a concussed Three sustained until he’s able to care for himself.
Forced proximity and Christmas is of course a recipe for rekindling feelings and clearing up the heartache of the past.
I love both forced proximity and second chance romance and the holiday feel made this one even more enjoyable. Nothing quite goes smoothly for Sara or Three, but they make it through stronger together and as individuals.
I loved seeing the growth of Three from his teenage years to adulthood. He definitely redeemed himself. And really, I can’t blame him entirely for how things ended initially.
I really loved Sara’s growth. I loved seeing how she found herself and became more confident in deciding what she wants and going for it. It’s hard to break away from expectations. What part of those expectations pushed us to become better and what part steered us in a direction we don’t want?
I loved all the characters in this book! If you want a Christmas book that sucks you in and makes you fall in love with the characters this is the one!
This book is available October 1st!
December 5, 2024
I’m so glad my first Christmas read of 2024 was this sweet and swoony story of Julie’s. I have had the privilege of early reading her stories since the very beginning and I was so thrilled to get to see how Three’s love journey turned out. Its is the quintessential small town teacher who never got over his first love, but with tons of snappy banter, unfortunate accidents and lots of Christmas cheer. I loved that Sara never really got over him either, which meant there was some swoony romance included as well. Watching them fall in love (again) was so much fun and I loved how the whole story flowed so well from the very first page. I absolutely cannot give spoilers because this story has so much good in it that readers will love experiencing for themselves but believe me when I say, you must put this story on your TBR for the holiday season because it should not be missed. Julie has a gift for crafting beautiful romance stories that make your heart light up like a Christmas tree. I highly recommend you check out all of her stories if you haven’t had that privilege yet, so they can become favorites for you too.
I received a copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
I received a copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel. I am not required by anyone to write a positive review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.
September 15, 2024
Loved! Full review to come!
November 4, 2024
I’ve been waiting for Three Fuller to get his story - and it did not disappoint!! 😍 @juliechristiansonauthor writes some of my very favorite books so I knew I was going to love this…I just didn’t know how much!
Sara is back in Abieville after being away for 10 years, and doing all she can to avoid Three Fuller - the man who broke her heart all those years ago. But when brownie baking goes wrong, and some residents come to save the day…Three ends up with a concussion, thanks to Sara.
Three hates how he hurt Sara a decade ago. After overhearing her parents, and realizing he didn’t feel like he was enough for her, he ended things. Now he’s grown up, he’s found his calling as a teacher and coach (and he still lifeguards too!) but he wishes things could’ve been different with Sara…and maybe now they can be?!
I loved this story so much! It had all the good things - forced proximity, she takes care of him (he takes care of her too!), second chance…I loved it all!
I’ll admit, their first encounter had me laughing - and while the laughs continued, there was also so many sweet and swoony moments too!
I loved the communication and that Three was honest with her. And that she was brave enough to confront her parents about it all. I also REALLY loved how her parents handled it, and while they might not have remembered exactly what was said, they were honest with how they felt. It was all handled so perfect and that epilogue 😍😍
This is book 4 in a series and can be read as a stand alone, but reading the others will bring so much more to this fun Christmas romance!
Sara is back in Abieville after being away for 10 years, and doing all she can to avoid Three Fuller - the man who broke her heart all those years ago. But when brownie baking goes wrong, and some residents come to save the day…Three ends up with a concussion, thanks to Sara.
Three hates how he hurt Sara a decade ago. After overhearing her parents, and realizing he didn’t feel like he was enough for her, he ended things. Now he’s grown up, he’s found his calling as a teacher and coach (and he still lifeguards too!) but he wishes things could’ve been different with Sara…and maybe now they can be?!
I loved this story so much! It had all the good things - forced proximity, she takes care of him (he takes care of her too!), second chance…I loved it all!
I’ll admit, their first encounter had me laughing - and while the laughs continued, there was also so many sweet and swoony moments too!
I loved the communication and that Three was honest with her. And that she was brave enough to confront her parents about it all. I also REALLY loved how her parents handled it, and while they might not have remembered exactly what was said, they were honest with how they felt. It was all handled so perfect and that epilogue 😍😍
This is book 4 in a series and can be read as a stand alone, but reading the others will bring so much more to this fun Christmas romance!
December 19, 2024
I love a good second-chance romance, and this one hit the spot! I'm glad that both the main characters, Sara Hathaway and Three Fuller, reflected on how they had grown during their time apart, and that it was even necessary for their growth, but they discovered that they still wanted to be together. There was a bit of miscommunication, but partly that was one personality who tended to jump to conclusions and also these characters were teenagers when they first fell in love, and who doesn't know (or was once) a teenager who couldn't communicate well! I don't mind miscommunication if it is done realistically, and this was.
I loved the Christmas traditions Sara attempted to recreate, and the way Three celebrated her birthday. The secret storeroom was fun to discover until it wasn't, and then it was again. 😉
This was a fun Christmas romance that I'd recommend if you like the second-chance trope, they both take care of each other, and forced proximity.
Content warning: mention of past fertility issues, mild innuendo
Intimacy rating: level 1, non-descriptive kisses only, sharing one couch to sleep
I loved the Christmas traditions Sara attempted to recreate, and the way Three celebrated her birthday. The secret storeroom was fun to discover until it wasn't, and then it was again. 😉
This was a fun Christmas romance that I'd recommend if you like the second-chance trope, they both take care of each other, and forced proximity.
Content warning: mention of past fertility issues, mild innuendo
Intimacy rating: level 1, non-descriptive kisses only, sharing one couch to sleep
December 31, 2025
I bought this one on sale earlier this year and have been waiting for the most magical time of the year to listen to it, and it did not disappoint. Sara is back in her small hometown to do a favor for her parents and has the meet-cute reunion with her former love, Three, that ends with her playing nurse for him through the holiday season.
I’m all about the right time and the right place, and those dying embers were fanned back to life with all the forced proximity and events of the season. I couldn’t get enough! And the narrators are two of my very favorites!
I loved these characters and the small town charm, as well as all the moments of reconnection and swoon.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
I’m all about the right time and the right place, and those dying embers were fanned back to life with all the forced proximity and events of the season. I couldn’t get enough! And the narrators are two of my very favorites!
I loved these characters and the small town charm, as well as all the moments of reconnection and swoon.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 3, 2026
That Time We Kissed Under the Mistletoe is the fourth in the series, but can easily stand alone. I have read the first two books, but not the third.
Read for:
🎄second chance romance
🎄forced proximity
🎄nope, thanks
🎄holiday traditions
🎄dual POV
🎄mutual pining
🎄 Hallmark Vibes
🎄 LOL moments
While this story is set around Christmas, it doesn't have a lot of Christmas vibes. I struggled to connect with either character, and didn't find the story to be very memorable.
Read for:
🎄second chance romance
🎄forced proximity
🎄nope, thanks
🎄holiday traditions
🎄dual POV
🎄mutual pining
🎄 Hallmark Vibes
🎄 LOL moments
While this story is set around Christmas, it doesn't have a lot of Christmas vibes. I struggled to connect with either character, and didn't find the story to be very memorable.
December 22, 2024
Aww! I love taking a trip to Abieville this Christmas story was perfect!
Three and Sara broke up 10 years ago after he overheard her parents talking about him holding Sara back. Now, Sara is back in town and hoping she doesn’t (or maybe that she does) run into Three again. After an unfortunate incident with a fire extinguisher, Sara find herself being Three’s caretaker for the next 3 days. What could possibly happen? 😏
This was such a cute story full of insights into the past, small town Christmas vibes, the Fuller family, and a second chance at love!
Three and Sara broke up 10 years ago after he overheard her parents talking about him holding Sara back. Now, Sara is back in town and hoping she doesn’t (or maybe that she does) run into Three again. After an unfortunate incident with a fire extinguisher, Sara find herself being Three’s caretaker for the next 3 days. What could possibly happen? 😏
This was such a cute story full of insights into the past, small town Christmas vibes, the Fuller family, and a second chance at love!
July 24, 2025
didn't finish it. there's never a situation in a clean romance where the heroine needs to sleep on top of the hero she's "not interested in." that's not a thing. it's putting dog poop in the storyline that makes it so I can't read this with my daughter. lots of dog poop.
November 22, 2024
This book was cute. It felt a little long, but it was a sweet Christmas romance.
December 2, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
3 Stars
Slow paced and felt too long for the amount of character "growth."
3 Stars
Slow paced and felt too long for the amount of character "growth."
December 2, 2025
Very funny and sweet rom-com with no spice thank you very much!
October 14, 2024
I didn’t want to put this book down! Julie has a type and I’m here for it! I love all her MMCs. So sweet and warm and protective ❤️❤️❤️ IMO she’s a must read, no matter what. The small towns are so special and quaint and descriptive I wish I could actually visit them.
December 1, 2024
It was great to be back in Abbieville. Sara and Three were the best. The tension that was between them, the history, the banter it was all great. It did make me sad that Three had to miss his families holiday cruise but I think he had a lot more fun with Sara!!! I definitely can’t blame Sara for her use of the fire extinguisher. Lol. I think I would have done the same thing. Sara did a great job juggling taking care of Three and making sure her parent’s rental was up to par. The secret room was great and it was quite comical how they got out of there.
Julie did another great job and I can’t wait to see what Bradford will be up next. Thank you Julie for the advanced review copy. These words are my own.
Julie did another great job and I can’t wait to see what Bradford will be up next. Thank you Julie for the advanced review copy. These words are my own.
December 17, 2024
I absolutely love this story and the entire series! Every time I pick up one of Julie Christianson's books, it feels like coming home. They’re always funny and comforting, with familiar characters that draw you in. I loved Three and Sara's meet-whack! Nothing like getting reacquainted while nursing the guy you concussed back to health! Given their shared history, the forced proximity, and their undeniable chemistry, it was fantastic to see how they worked through their issues. Overall, this read was a delightful experience!
October 2, 2024
I loved the humor and romance in this book so much! The story is fun, the banter is amazing, the characters and their development are so well written, and the romance is swoonworthy. I knew I would love it from the first few paragraphs, and I had a hard time putting it down whenever life intervened and I had to take a break from reading.
Sara and Three are perfect for each other! Second chance romance is one of my favorites because I love seeing a couple overcome past hurts and work together to rekindle their relationship. It was so sweet to see Sara and Three together again! I loved Sara’s past journal entries which gave the reader the chance to learn about their early relationship.
Abieville is such a fun place to read about! I love the side characters, Abieville, and seeing characters again from earlier in the series. This book can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is amazing and well worth reading!
For readers who enjoy second chance romance, forced proximity, and Christmas fun, this story is a must read! I can’t recommend it enough, and I am already looking forward to reading it again in the future!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Sara and Three are perfect for each other! Second chance romance is one of my favorites because I love seeing a couple overcome past hurts and work together to rekindle their relationship. It was so sweet to see Sara and Three together again! I loved Sara’s past journal entries which gave the reader the chance to learn about their early relationship.
Abieville is such a fun place to read about! I love the side characters, Abieville, and seeing characters again from earlier in the series. This book can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is amazing and well worth reading!
For readers who enjoy second chance romance, forced proximity, and Christmas fun, this story is a must read! I can’t recommend it enough, and I am already looking forward to reading it again in the future!
I voluntarily read and reviewed a copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
October 1, 2024
That Time We Kissed Under The MistleToe
by: Julie Christianson
“But that whole time, I never let anyone else get close to me. And I never stopped thinking about you.”
“I couldn’t forget you either. Hard as I
tried.”
~That Time we Kissed Under the Mistletoe is a full-length, closed-door romantic comedy set in the middle of the lovely Abieville Love Stories series. In this delightful holiday romcom, you will find you’ll find plenty of sizzling chemistry, no content beyond kisses, second chance romance, small-town Christmas, forced proximity, he rescues her, no third act breakup, humor, and so much more…
“You’re not alone. Do you hear me, Sara Hathaway? You are not alone. I am not leaving you. Not now.
-Book friends, It’s the banter, the swoon, the second chance romance so well-done, such loveable characters, enchanting holiday vibes, and all the emotions, that bring this story to life! I thoroughly loved that there is such a delicate balance of grief and hurt from the past and still yearning and love after much time has passed. I loved seeing dear characters, “Three” and Sara work through their past and find tender love again! Seeing them take care of each other from the smell to big gestures was so heartwarming. The chemistry, the longing, and tension, and lovely Christmas holiday setting were weaved so well within this story as well. While this story could easily be read as a stand alone, do yourself a favor and read the whole delightful series. You won’t be disappointed. This is a dear story worth the read!🙌🏻📚❤️🎄✨
“I started life out with a pretty full heart. Then
Sara Hathaway made it fuller.”
-Content: mild innuendo, off-page mention of pregnancy troubles, some make-outs and spending nights together in the same house (no intimacy).
“Can I kiss you?” | rasp. “Yes,” she whimpers. “Yes.”
Merry Hawaiian Christmas luau, Three.”
#thattimewekissedunderthemistletoe
#juliechristiansonbooks
#allaboutthebestreads
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
by: Julie Christianson
“But that whole time, I never let anyone else get close to me. And I never stopped thinking about you.”
“I couldn’t forget you either. Hard as I
tried.”
~That Time we Kissed Under the Mistletoe is a full-length, closed-door romantic comedy set in the middle of the lovely Abieville Love Stories series. In this delightful holiday romcom, you will find you’ll find plenty of sizzling chemistry, no content beyond kisses, second chance romance, small-town Christmas, forced proximity, he rescues her, no third act breakup, humor, and so much more…
“You’re not alone. Do you hear me, Sara Hathaway? You are not alone. I am not leaving you. Not now.
-Book friends, It’s the banter, the swoon, the second chance romance so well-done, such loveable characters, enchanting holiday vibes, and all the emotions, that bring this story to life! I thoroughly loved that there is such a delicate balance of grief and hurt from the past and still yearning and love after much time has passed. I loved seeing dear characters, “Three” and Sara work through their past and find tender love again! Seeing them take care of each other from the smell to big gestures was so heartwarming. The chemistry, the longing, and tension, and lovely Christmas holiday setting were weaved so well within this story as well. While this story could easily be read as a stand alone, do yourself a favor and read the whole delightful series. You won’t be disappointed. This is a dear story worth the read!🙌🏻📚❤️🎄✨
“I started life out with a pretty full heart. Then
Sara Hathaway made it fuller.”
-Content: mild innuendo, off-page mention of pregnancy troubles, some make-outs and spending nights together in the same house (no intimacy).
“Can I kiss you?” | rasp. “Yes,” she whimpers. “Yes.”
Merry Hawaiian Christmas luau, Three.”
#thattimewekissedunderthemistletoe
#juliechristiansonbooks
#allaboutthebestreads
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
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