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Christmas Falls: Season 2 #10
Mingle All The Way
When I go home for the holidays, Santa has a secret waiting for me...
I wandered far and wide in search of happiness, never finding what I sought. When I return to Christmas Falls to lick my wounds, the last thing I expect is for Santa to send me a golden-haired, blue-eyed man I once called my best friend—the friend who was taken away from me when we were kids.
Milo Montgomery is back in town, and he doesn’t wait for miracles to come to him. There’s a special sort of magic in the way he spreads joy throughout our town.
His chocolate shop might be struggling, but that can’t break his festive spirit. His optimism is contagious, and his cheerful mood makes me feel like I’m thirteen again, catching snowflakes on my tongue. As we walk down memory lane, recreating every Christmas Eve we spent together, our friendship becomes everything I've been missing.
Milo confesses I was his first and only love. But as a straight man, I can never love him the same way. Or can I? I'm beginning to question everything I thought I knew about myself. About the world.
Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person.
Christmas Season 2 revisits a small town that thrives on enough holiday charm to rival any Hallmark movie. It's a multi-author M/M romance series.
I wandered far and wide in search of happiness, never finding what I sought. When I return to Christmas Falls to lick my wounds, the last thing I expect is for Santa to send me a golden-haired, blue-eyed man I once called my best friend—the friend who was taken away from me when we were kids.
Milo Montgomery is back in town, and he doesn’t wait for miracles to come to him. There’s a special sort of magic in the way he spreads joy throughout our town.
His chocolate shop might be struggling, but that can’t break his festive spirit. His optimism is contagious, and his cheerful mood makes me feel like I’m thirteen again, catching snowflakes on my tongue. As we walk down memory lane, recreating every Christmas Eve we spent together, our friendship becomes everything I've been missing.
Milo confesses I was his first and only love. But as a straight man, I can never love him the same way. Or can I? I'm beginning to question everything I thought I knew about myself. About the world.
Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person.
Christmas Season 2 revisits a small town that thrives on enough holiday charm to rival any Hallmark movie. It's a multi-author M/M romance series.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 13, 2024
80 people are currently reading
164 people want to read
About the author
Hayden Hall
71 books766 followersGay. Sweet. Steamy.
Hayden Hall writes MM romance novels. He is a boyfriend, a globetrotter, and an avid romance reader.
Hayden's mission is to author a catalog of captivating and steamy MM romance novels which gather a devoted community around the Happily Ever Afters.
His stories are sweet with just the right amount of naughty.
You can get in touch with Hayden on Facebook or through his website at haydenhallwrites.com
Hayden Hall writes MM romance novels. He is a boyfriend, a globetrotter, and an avid romance reader.
Hayden's mission is to author a catalog of captivating and steamy MM romance novels which gather a devoted community around the Happily Ever Afters.
His stories are sweet with just the right amount of naughty.
You can get in touch with Hayden on Facebook or through his website at haydenhallwrites.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
August 3, 2025
Vulnerability.
Hayden Hall writes vulnerability like it's his own. He allowes the reader to feel exactly what it's like to put yourself out there fully exposed and risk everything for a shot at love.
This is a tough one. What can you feel when one of your MCs is so flawed, always making the bad decisions, just not being good enough. But I guess that's what makes him real. Christian always set himself up to fail.
This story has a melancholy vibe, a sadness for time gone by and time lost. The realization of love is beautifully depicted and the third act break up just short enough to make the HEA shine.
Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. I loooooved how this book tasted.☺️🤤
Hayden Hall writes vulnerability like it's his own. He allowes the reader to feel exactly what it's like to put yourself out there fully exposed and risk everything for a shot at love.
This is a tough one. What can you feel when one of your MCs is so flawed, always making the bad decisions, just not being good enough. But I guess that's what makes him real. Christian always set himself up to fail.
This story has a melancholy vibe, a sadness for time gone by and time lost. The realization of love is beautifully depicted and the third act break up just short enough to make the HEA shine.
Chocolate, chocolate and more chocolate. I loooooved how this book tasted.☺️🤤
December 13, 2024
What a perfect conclusion to this Christmas Falls collaboration! We finally find out who the mysterious Secret Santa is who has been helping all of our characters achieve their happiness. Milo & Christian are that second chance best friends to more trope that you can not help but swoon for. These two were made to be in each other's orbits. Yes, they make mistakes, but hey, they are human. Milo's undying devotion is a thing of beauty to allow his best friend to come to terms with life choices. Christian may make mistakes, but he does learn from them and fights to right past wrongs. With a perfectly swoon worthy conclusion. Thank you to all the authors for a wonderful second season of Christmas Falls, I hope to see you again next year.
December 13, 2024
Milo & Christian
Rating: 3.5⭐
- Small Town
- Childhood Best Friends
- Bi-awakening
- Chocolate Maker/Marketing
- Christmas Romance
This one for me had a little more angst than the others I've read in the series but it's still a fluffy and sweet Christmas read.
We finally get to see who has been the Secret Santa throughout the series, which was really sweet. These two were childhood best friends but Milo's family moved away and they grew apart. About 15 years later, they're both back in Christmas Falls. Milo is trying to keep his chocolate shop open, while Christian is drifting trying to figure out his next moves. They start up their friendship again quickly and meld back into their easy comfort with each other. Milo has been in love with Christian since they were teens but never told him, until now. Christian has a lot to process and figure out before it's too late.
I will not lie, I wanted to throttle Christian on more than one occasion in this book. No one hurts the sweetheart that is Milo!
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
I received a free copy of this book via author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 28 or 29?
Rating: 3.5⭐
- Small Town
- Childhood Best Friends
- Bi-awakening
- Chocolate Maker/Marketing
- Christmas Romance
This one for me had a little more angst than the others I've read in the series but it's still a fluffy and sweet Christmas read.
We finally get to see who has been the Secret Santa throughout the series, which was really sweet. These two were childhood best friends but Milo's family moved away and they grew apart. About 15 years later, they're both back in Christmas Falls. Milo is trying to keep his chocolate shop open, while Christian is drifting trying to figure out his next moves. They start up their friendship again quickly and meld back into their easy comfort with each other. Milo has been in love with Christian since they were teens but never told him, until now. Christian has a lot to process and figure out before it's too late.
I will not lie, I wanted to throttle Christian on more than one occasion in this book. No one hurts the sweetheart that is Milo!
Content Warnings (may contain spoilers):
- Graphic sexual content between consenting adults
- Explicit language
I received a free copy of this book via author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
POV: Dual
Breakup: Yes
Cheat: No
OM/OW Drama: No
Ages: 28 or 29?
December 8, 2024
Milo lost his best friend when his family moved out of Christmas Falls. Eventually, Milo came back to the place that always carried his best memories, even if his best friend had left. He has his chocolate shop that he his working hard to make it a success and it’s enough. But then Christian comes home. It’s been fifteen years, yet when they see one another it is almost like no time has passed. The feelings Milo had for Christian are reawakened. Reminding him that he was in love with his best friend and that never went away. Not that Christian knows this. Christian was devastated when Milo moved away. And thought he let the years go by without reaching out because he was hurt by losing him, he finds himself back home in Christmas Falls in search of something that has been missing. Turns out seeing Milo was what he was missing. And when feelings are revealed, Christian feels like things are finally falling into place inside him. He is starting to realize a lot about himself. And one of the most important things is that Milo is with him. I loved watching these two really realize what their feelings were for one another. It was so clear that they were meant to be. That the love between them as kids was so much more than they realized back then. And even with the years that passed, they would always find their way back to one another. A great story to end this second of Christmas Falls! I really hope there will be more seasons to come!
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 19, 2024
I love all Hayden Hall's books and this book is just the trope I love: Friends to lovers. Best friends in childhood until one of them leaves and return some years later.
Some tears (get a tissue) and christmas coziness . And chocolates, lots of chocolates.
and like Hayden Hall says "Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person."
Highly recommended
Some tears (get a tissue) and christmas coziness . And chocolates, lots of chocolates.
and like Hayden Hall says "Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person."
Highly recommended
March 14, 2025
I was looking forward to this book because Milo was so cute in the other books. The description for this book was a little off, considering they only did one thing reliving their past. I don’t think I enjoyed how stuck in the past the author made the both of them. This book was way too wordy and the authors over description of every little feeling and event took away from connecting to the characters. It was a little disappointing that they had sex so quickly after Christian‘s bi-awakening. That part felt very rushed and their first sex scene lasted way too long. The over the top descriptions made their first time incredibly boring to read. By the end of this book, I didn’t really like either character and was just trying to get through it. This book was also a bit more angsty than any of the others and didn’t really fit the vibe of the series. I am definitely glad everything worked out, but Christian was infuriating for most of the book.
December 5, 2025
STRANA FAMILY BOOK BLOG
Questa serie si è conclusa in modo meraviglioso, con un volume straordinario. Milo e Christian, legati da un'amicizia profonda fin dall'infanzia, hanno visto le loro strade dividersi e i loro rapporti interrompersi. Per Milo, questa separazione è stata particolarmente difficile, poiché Christian rappresentava il suo primo amore, oltre che il suo migliore amico e nessun altro è riuscito a riaccendere la stessa scintilla nel suo cuore. Christian, dopo che Milo lasciò la loro cittadina, ha scelto di tagliare i ponti con tutti e di proseguire con la sua vita, sebbene i suoi tentativi siano stati un fallimento su ogni via intrapresa. Ritrovarsi a Christmas Falls, li costringe a confrontarsi con i propri sentimenti, emozioni che Christian non aveva mai riconosciuto di provare per un uomo. Ogni aspetto della narrazione evoca amore e desiderio, percepibile in ogni sguardo, parola e gesto. Ho adorato ogni elemento di questa storia e avrei letto altre 1000 pagine se ci fossero state. Lo stile di Hayden è un vero soffio di freschezza, capace di avvolgere il lettore e di scaldare il cuore, lasciando un'impronta indelebile e un ricordo unico.
Valutazione: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Emozione:💘💘💘💘💘
Questa serie si è conclusa in modo meraviglioso, con un volume straordinario. Milo e Christian, legati da un'amicizia profonda fin dall'infanzia, hanno visto le loro strade dividersi e i loro rapporti interrompersi. Per Milo, questa separazione è stata particolarmente difficile, poiché Christian rappresentava il suo primo amore, oltre che il suo migliore amico e nessun altro è riuscito a riaccendere la stessa scintilla nel suo cuore. Christian, dopo che Milo lasciò la loro cittadina, ha scelto di tagliare i ponti con tutti e di proseguire con la sua vita, sebbene i suoi tentativi siano stati un fallimento su ogni via intrapresa. Ritrovarsi a Christmas Falls, li costringe a confrontarsi con i propri sentimenti, emozioni che Christian non aveva mai riconosciuto di provare per un uomo. Ogni aspetto della narrazione evoca amore e desiderio, percepibile in ogni sguardo, parola e gesto. Ho adorato ogni elemento di questa storia e avrei letto altre 1000 pagine se ci fossero state. Lo stile di Hayden è un vero soffio di freschezza, capace di avvolgere il lettore e di scaldare il cuore, lasciando un'impronta indelebile e un ricordo unico.
Valutazione: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spicy: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Emozione:💘💘💘💘💘
December 14, 2024
Lost Boyhood Friends
This is a huge series by various authors and ‘Mingle All The Way’ is the first I’ve read so far. I’ve always enjoyed Hayden Hall’s stories and this didn’t let me down.
Milo and Christian were inseparable as kids in Christmas Falls until Milo’s family had to move away for his Dad’s job. Promising to write to each other, Milo wrote a lot, letters, cards etc and never got replies. Christian never replied, and it was until 15 years later that he found out why.
Milo always knew he would return to Christmas Falls and he did. He opened a Chocolatier Shop, Jingle Bites. He thought his best friend would still be here, but he wasn’t. It was always the bright lights of New York that had attracted Christian. It was a surprise to Milo when the local gossip informed him that Christian Underwood had returned and was staying with his parents.
I was delighted when it was Christian who made the first move and dropped into Jingle Bites and met with Milo again.
Milo stole my heart and not just because he made gorgeous chocolate treats.
It wasn’t plain sailing for them.
Christmas Falls is a real ‘Hallmark’ fluffy kind of town with all townspeople digging in to make it good for everyone. Really gets you in the mood to face the Season, Happy for many and Heartbreaking for some. I even shed tears at some point.
Read this in a day and ready for a few more in this series.
This is a huge series by various authors and ‘Mingle All The Way’ is the first I’ve read so far. I’ve always enjoyed Hayden Hall’s stories and this didn’t let me down.
Milo and Christian were inseparable as kids in Christmas Falls until Milo’s family had to move away for his Dad’s job. Promising to write to each other, Milo wrote a lot, letters, cards etc and never got replies. Christian never replied, and it was until 15 years later that he found out why.
Milo always knew he would return to Christmas Falls and he did. He opened a Chocolatier Shop, Jingle Bites. He thought his best friend would still be here, but he wasn’t. It was always the bright lights of New York that had attracted Christian. It was a surprise to Milo when the local gossip informed him that Christian Underwood had returned and was staying with his parents.
I was delighted when it was Christian who made the first move and dropped into Jingle Bites and met with Milo again.
Milo stole my heart and not just because he made gorgeous chocolate treats.
It wasn’t plain sailing for them.
Christmas Falls is a real ‘Hallmark’ fluffy kind of town with all townspeople digging in to make it good for everyone. Really gets you in the mood to face the Season, Happy for many and Heartbreaking for some. I even shed tears at some point.
Read this in a day and ready for a few more in this series.
December 18, 2024
Mingle All the Way by Hayden Hall is part of the second season of the Christmas Falls series by multiple authors. This is the story of Christian and Milo. I loved their story. It was sweet, sexy, full of feels and very well written.
December 12, 2024
Mingle All The Way is part of multi author Christmas Falls: Season 2 series. Each book can be read as a standalone but why not enjoy the rest of the series. This is the story of Christian and Milo. This was just an amazing heart felt story. I loved seeing these two brought back together after 15 years apart. They have always loved each other even if they didn't realize how much. This book and series just made me happy, it is a perfect holiday series. I would definitely recommend this book and series.
December 29, 2024
heartwarming story, terrific way to finish the season
Rating: 4.5🌈
Hayden Hall’s Mingle All The Way see out the second season of the heartwarming, wonderful Christmas Falls series. So of course, I mistakenly read it out of order and stumbled across the answer to this season’s biggest mystery, who is Christmas Falls Secret Santa?
The answer was absolutely perfect and in keeping with the heart and magic of this small Christmas town and community.
It’s the romantic journey of two childhood friends who were separated by a parent’s need to locate for a job and the revelations and romance that is sparked when they’re reunited years later when both are back in Christmas Falls.
Milo, the boy who left crushed and crying returned home first , years later to open his dream shop, Jingle Bites, selling his handmade chocolates. Now arrives Christian, returning home after his ventures outside in NYC, both romantically and professionally, failed.
Memories and their old friendship revives their relationship but something else turns it into a deep bond.
Milo has been a favorite throughout the series, with his quiet engaging hometown voice and handmade chocolates that appear in every story. Hall take a terrific secondary role and turns Milo into a great character, one who can make a reader feel connected to his life and struggles, whether it’s the charming shop he’s poured everything into or his long time feelings for Christian.
Christian is a very strong character but I have to admit there’s moments I was very frustrated with his character and or maybe the lack of momentum in his outlook and his poor treatment of Milo. Continued expectations of forgiveness for the same behavior grows old in fiction as well as real life. It becomes an issue when a writer’s character inability to move forward becomes a loop instead of a forward path once too often. That narrative stumble temporarily took me out of the story and from my connection to this character.
The ending is fantastic and more than made up for that section prior. It’s that Hallmark climax that’s heartwarming and full of seasonal surprises.
Milo, this town and yes, Christian, all have that wonderful Christmas Falls energy and finale that is the reason we read and love this series.
Christian and Milo and his Jingle Bites was a delight and a lovely way to close the season for this year. Highly recommended.
Cover art by Morningstar Ashley Designs
And check out all the books in the Christmas Falls series, both 1 and 2.
Christmas Falls, Season 2:
The Snuggle is Real by DJ Jamison Flake It til You Make It by Beth Bolden ❤️
12 Dates of Christmas by Brigham Vaughn
Here Comes Santa Paws by Lee Blair
Under the Mistle-Foe by Rye Cox
❤️Christmas Beau by Amy Aislin
❤️No Business Like Snow Business by J.A. Rock & Lisa Henry
Frost Impressions by Kelly Fox
Promise Yule Be Mine by Rhys Everly ❤️Mingle All The Way by Hayden Hall
Christmas Falls, Season 1:
Grinch Kisses by DJ Jamison Snowbody Loves You by Jacki James Get Frosted by Amy Aislin
Silent Knight by Beth Bolden
Under the Mistle-Tome by Sammi Cee
Clausing a Scene by Casey Cox
No Elf-ing Way by Hayden Hall
Ready, Set, Glow! by Rye Cox
Scrooge You! By Brigham Vaughn
Rating: 4.5🌈
Hayden Hall’s Mingle All The Way see out the second season of the heartwarming, wonderful Christmas Falls series. So of course, I mistakenly read it out of order and stumbled across the answer to this season’s biggest mystery, who is Christmas Falls Secret Santa?
The answer was absolutely perfect and in keeping with the heart and magic of this small Christmas town and community.
It’s the romantic journey of two childhood friends who were separated by a parent’s need to locate for a job and the revelations and romance that is sparked when they’re reunited years later when both are back in Christmas Falls.
Milo, the boy who left crushed and crying returned home first , years later to open his dream shop, Jingle Bites, selling his handmade chocolates. Now arrives Christian, returning home after his ventures outside in NYC, both romantically and professionally, failed.
Memories and their old friendship revives their relationship but something else turns it into a deep bond.
Milo has been a favorite throughout the series, with his quiet engaging hometown voice and handmade chocolates that appear in every story. Hall take a terrific secondary role and turns Milo into a great character, one who can make a reader feel connected to his life and struggles, whether it’s the charming shop he’s poured everything into or his long time feelings for Christian.
Christian is a very strong character but I have to admit there’s moments I was very frustrated with his character and or maybe the lack of momentum in his outlook and his poor treatment of Milo. Continued expectations of forgiveness for the same behavior grows old in fiction as well as real life. It becomes an issue when a writer’s character inability to move forward becomes a loop instead of a forward path once too often. That narrative stumble temporarily took me out of the story and from my connection to this character.
The ending is fantastic and more than made up for that section prior. It’s that Hallmark climax that’s heartwarming and full of seasonal surprises.
Milo, this town and yes, Christian, all have that wonderful Christmas Falls energy and finale that is the reason we read and love this series.
Christian and Milo and his Jingle Bites was a delight and a lovely way to close the season for this year. Highly recommended.
Cover art by Morningstar Ashley Designs
And check out all the books in the Christmas Falls series, both 1 and 2.
Christmas Falls, Season 2:
The Snuggle is Real by DJ Jamison Flake It til You Make It by Beth Bolden ❤️
12 Dates of Christmas by Brigham Vaughn
Here Comes Santa Paws by Lee Blair
Under the Mistle-Foe by Rye Cox
❤️Christmas Beau by Amy Aislin
❤️No Business Like Snow Business by J.A. Rock & Lisa Henry
Frost Impressions by Kelly Fox
Promise Yule Be Mine by Rhys Everly ❤️Mingle All The Way by Hayden Hall
Christmas Falls, Season 1:
Grinch Kisses by DJ Jamison Snowbody Loves You by Jacki James Get Frosted by Amy Aislin
Silent Knight by Beth Bolden
Under the Mistle-Tome by Sammi Cee
Clausing a Scene by Casey Cox
No Elf-ing Way by Hayden Hall
Ready, Set, Glow! by Rye Cox
Scrooge You! By Brigham Vaughn
January 10, 2025
Very sweet tale of two childhood buddies that are separated at 13 then reconnect fifteen years later. These two stole my heart. Christian's gay-awakening rang true, and it's all down to the feelings he always had for his childhood friend. He was never satisfied with the relationships he had with women, and it took seeing Milo after all these years to open his eyes.
Hall always writes very poetic sex scenes, and the first time Milo and Christian have sex is so beautiful to read, if a bit long.
Overall a great ending to this series.
Hall always writes very poetic sex scenes, and the first time Milo and Christian have sex is so beautiful to read, if a bit long.
Overall a great ending to this series.
December 17, 2025
Tre stelline e mezzo.
December 11, 2024
Mingle All the Way by Hayden Hall is part of the Christmas Falls Season 2 series by various authors. It is the poignant story of two men who were best friends as children, lost their way when one of them moved away, found each other 15 years later, and realized that they are each other’s home. Milo Montgomery and Christian Underwood met and grew up in Christmas Falls. They became best friends, confiding in each other and doing everything together. When Milo was 13 his family moved away and he was devastated because he knew he loved Christian, even at that young age, although he knew nothing would ever come of it because Christian was straight. He tried to contact him several times but Christian never replied so eventually they lost contact, but they always thought about each other. Christian grew up, went to college, moved to New York, and tried to find work but nothing ever stuck, as did the series of girlfriends who came into his life. He finally moved back in with his parents in Christas Falls to regroup. Milo had always loved Christmas Falls because he had the best memories there so he had come back and started Jingle Bites, a chocolate shop. However, he was having trouble staying afloat because Éclair, another shop, had all the business and even though his chocolates were amazing, he wasn’t making enough money off of them to survive much longer. He heard Christian was back and was excited but also worried about how things had ended with them. Christian came in and they talked. Milo knew it would take time to see if they could reconnect so Christian would come into the shop and see if he could help Milo. They did activities they had enjoyed during their childhood and talked. Eventually they told each other about what had happened while they had been apart and how Christian had never felt like what he had done was enough. Milo reassured him that he was always enough for him. Eventually the reason why Christian had never responded to Milo’s messages came out and he realized that everything felt wrong without Milo in it and that could be part of the reason why his relationships had never worked out. When they kissed for the first time Christian wasn’t sure about it which hurt Milo but the more he thought about it after he knew he needed Milo in his life and tried to make up for what had happened which led to more kissing and a hot love scene. After dinner with Christian’s parents and a revelation there he was ready for the next chapter in his life which included Milo. When a job opportunity came up back in NY Milo said he had to go or he would resent him later on, but Christian knew where his heart was and he had to convince Milo that they belong together which he does when he also reveals to the town information about the Secret Santa that has been helping everyone out and this led to them declaring their love for each other. As time went on they learned to love without the weight of the past and knew they would always home together. I really enjoyed this story. There was a lot of hurt/comfort in that Milo loved Christian from the start but never thought that love could be returned. He was also a very special and kind person to everyone around him. Christian was lost for the 15 years he was gone with neither work nor relationships working out. It took some time but he realized Milo was always his safe space and his home and he knew he would do anything to get him to realize that. I also liked that many of the couples from other books in the series made appearances and were part of this story. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like angsty stories about men who were each other’s best friends growing up, got torn apart from a move, grew up, and when they got back together realized what they meant to each other and that they had always been in love.
December 10, 2024
New Review! Mingle All the Way (Christmas Falls 2.0 #10)
By @authorhaydenhall
How is this my first Hayden Hall title? Where the heck have you been all my life, Hayden??? I love your authorial tone, and your style and your characters are so well rounded and vivid! And THE CHEMISTRY?! excuse me??!!! Consider me subSCRIBED to your sp1ce cabinet! Your scenes are so incredibly written that I DEVOURED them! Passionate and emotional 😭 you made each scene a page turner!
The book opens with Milo, the local chocolate maker, running his shop and musing about his store and life in Christmas Falls. It’s not long before one of his regulars drops the gossip that his old bff from childhood, Christian, is back in town, and possibly for good and Milo had a minor heart attack since Christian was MOST definitely his first crush and he would definitely still do anything to bag his str8 bff.
Once Christian finds his way to his store, which is after a bit since he’s coming off a bad breakup and losing his job and apartment in New York and is now feeling hopeless, his heart nearly explodes in the best way possible since he realizes Milo WAS and is his bestest BFF ever and suddenly everything is looking up.
The chemistry is instant, they relive the past, good and bad, Christian helps in the store, and discovers that Milo is much more connected to the town than he could have ever imagined. He brings him out of his shell. And something else.
When Milo drops the gossip that”gay” fact on Christian, it isn’t even a surprise or an issue and then…. THERES KISSING! and drama!
But Hayden gotchu, after some soul searching, Christian realizes Milo is his everything and he WANTS a relationship with Milo and that he IS attracted to Milo and their scenes together is fueled by history, emotion and excited and attraction and gosh it’s EVERYTHING!!!!
This is one of the best best-friends to lover stories I’ve ever read, AND it wraps up the Secret Santa plot of CF 2.0 in a SPLENDID way. Loved it. Read the series conclusion immediately. A MUST READ.
5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
By @authorhaydenhall
How is this my first Hayden Hall title? Where the heck have you been all my life, Hayden??? I love your authorial tone, and your style and your characters are so well rounded and vivid! And THE CHEMISTRY?! excuse me??!!! Consider me subSCRIBED to your sp1ce cabinet! Your scenes are so incredibly written that I DEVOURED them! Passionate and emotional 😭 you made each scene a page turner!
The book opens with Milo, the local chocolate maker, running his shop and musing about his store and life in Christmas Falls. It’s not long before one of his regulars drops the gossip that his old bff from childhood, Christian, is back in town, and possibly for good and Milo had a minor heart attack since Christian was MOST definitely his first crush and he would definitely still do anything to bag his str8 bff.
Once Christian finds his way to his store, which is after a bit since he’s coming off a bad breakup and losing his job and apartment in New York and is now feeling hopeless, his heart nearly explodes in the best way possible since he realizes Milo WAS and is his bestest BFF ever and suddenly everything is looking up.
The chemistry is instant, they relive the past, good and bad, Christian helps in the store, and discovers that Milo is much more connected to the town than he could have ever imagined. He brings him out of his shell. And something else.
When Milo drops the gossip that”gay” fact on Christian, it isn’t even a surprise or an issue and then…. THERES KISSING! and drama!
But Hayden gotchu, after some soul searching, Christian realizes Milo is his everything and he WANTS a relationship with Milo and that he IS attracted to Milo and their scenes together is fueled by history, emotion and excited and attraction and gosh it’s EVERYTHING!!!!
This is one of the best best-friends to lover stories I’ve ever read, AND it wraps up the Secret Santa plot of CF 2.0 in a SPLENDID way. Loved it. Read the series conclusion immediately. A MUST READ.
5 stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 14, 2024
AHHHH! We're back to Christmas Falls for Seasons Two!! Here's Hayden Hall's "Mingle All The Way."
["When I go home for the holidays, Santa has a secret waiting for me...
I wandered far and wide in search of happiness, never finding what I sought. When I return to Christmas Falls to lick my wounds, the last thing I expect is for Santa to send me a golden-haired, blue-eyed man I once called my best friend—the friend who was taken away from me when we were kids.
Milo Montgomery is back in town, and he doesn’t wait for miracles to come to him. There’s a special sort of magic in the way he spreads joy throughout our town.
His chocolate shop might be struggling, but that can’t break his festive spirit. His optimism is contagious, and his cheerful mood makes me feel like I’m thirteen again, catching snowflakes on my tongue. As we walk down memory lane, recreating every Christmas Eve we spent together, our friendship becomes everything I've been missing.
Milo confesses I was his first and only love. But as a straight man, I can never love him the same way. Or can I? I'm beginning to question everything I thought I knew about myself. About the world.
Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person."]
These two were heartbreaking and poetic and beautiful (so a Hayden classic). There was so much longing, for love, for friendship, for a place to call home. There was so much self-sacrificing and self-made-magic.
And just magic. Christmas magic, community magic, paying it forward magic. But that's Christmas Falls for you (and our infamous Secret Santa ;) ).
I'm so glad these two finally figured it out. Life (I'm told) is so much happier and simplier when you have your person, even if everything else is going to shit. And love born from a friendship like theirs? Perfection.
#minglealltheway #haydenhall #christmasfallsseaontwo #christmasfallsseries #christmasfallsseasontwoseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["When I go home for the holidays, Santa has a secret waiting for me...
I wandered far and wide in search of happiness, never finding what I sought. When I return to Christmas Falls to lick my wounds, the last thing I expect is for Santa to send me a golden-haired, blue-eyed man I once called my best friend—the friend who was taken away from me when we were kids.
Milo Montgomery is back in town, and he doesn’t wait for miracles to come to him. There’s a special sort of magic in the way he spreads joy throughout our town.
His chocolate shop might be struggling, but that can’t break his festive spirit. His optimism is contagious, and his cheerful mood makes me feel like I’m thirteen again, catching snowflakes on my tongue. As we walk down memory lane, recreating every Christmas Eve we spent together, our friendship becomes everything I've been missing.
Milo confesses I was his first and only love. But as a straight man, I can never love him the same way. Or can I? I'm beginning to question everything I thought I knew about myself. About the world.
Maybe happiness has nothing to do with a place. Maybe all it takes is the right person."]
These two were heartbreaking and poetic and beautiful (so a Hayden classic). There was so much longing, for love, for friendship, for a place to call home. There was so much self-sacrificing and self-made-magic.
And just magic. Christmas magic, community magic, paying it forward magic. But that's Christmas Falls for you (and our infamous Secret Santa ;) ).
I'm so glad these two finally figured it out. Life (I'm told) is so much happier and simplier when you have your person, even if everything else is going to shit. And love born from a friendship like theirs? Perfection.
#minglealltheway #haydenhall #christmasfallsseaontwo #christmasfallsseries #christmasfallsseasontwoseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
December 14, 2024
Mingle All the Way by Hayden Hall, part of the Christmas Falls Season 2 series, is a heartfelt and angsty second-chance romance about two childhood best friends who reconnect and realise they’ve always been each other’s home.
Milo Montgomery and Christian Underwood grew up inseparable in Christmas Falls, but when Milo’s family moved away at age 13, they lost touch. Milo, who already knew he loved Christian, tried reaching out, but Christian never responded. Christian, meanwhile, struggled with work, relationships, and finding his place in the world. Fifteen years later, Christian returns to Christmas Falls to regroup, and he and Milo cross paths again.
Milo, now running his chocolate shop, Jingle Bites, is struggling to keep the business afloat while competing with another shop in town. Though excited to see Christian, he’s hesitant given their unresolved past. Slowly, the two rebuild their connection—revisiting childhood memories, sharing their struggles, and uncovering the truth about why Christian never responded to Milo’s messages. Christian realises that nothing has ever felt right without Milo, while Milo grapples with old feelings and new hope.
The hurt/comfort dynamic is beautifully written, as Milo’s quiet kindness and unwavering heart help Christian see that he’s enough just as he is. The chemistry between them builds into a tender, emotional romance, complete with a heartfelt first kiss, moments of uncertainty, and a passionate reconciliation. When Christian is offered a job in New York, the tension rises, but he ultimately proves to Milo—and the entire town—that his heart belongs in Christmas Falls, with the man who’s always been his home.
I loved how the story balanced angst and hope, with appearances from other beloved couples in the series adding to the charm. Milo’s patience and Christian’s journey of self-discovery made their love story both poignant and satisfying. This is a must-read for fans of second chances, childhood best friends-to-lovers, and heartfelt small-town romances. Highly recommended!
Milo Montgomery and Christian Underwood grew up inseparable in Christmas Falls, but when Milo’s family moved away at age 13, they lost touch. Milo, who already knew he loved Christian, tried reaching out, but Christian never responded. Christian, meanwhile, struggled with work, relationships, and finding his place in the world. Fifteen years later, Christian returns to Christmas Falls to regroup, and he and Milo cross paths again.
Milo, now running his chocolate shop, Jingle Bites, is struggling to keep the business afloat while competing with another shop in town. Though excited to see Christian, he’s hesitant given their unresolved past. Slowly, the two rebuild their connection—revisiting childhood memories, sharing their struggles, and uncovering the truth about why Christian never responded to Milo’s messages. Christian realises that nothing has ever felt right without Milo, while Milo grapples with old feelings and new hope.
The hurt/comfort dynamic is beautifully written, as Milo’s quiet kindness and unwavering heart help Christian see that he’s enough just as he is. The chemistry between them builds into a tender, emotional romance, complete with a heartfelt first kiss, moments of uncertainty, and a passionate reconciliation. When Christian is offered a job in New York, the tension rises, but he ultimately proves to Milo—and the entire town—that his heart belongs in Christmas Falls, with the man who’s always been his home.
I loved how the story balanced angst and hope, with appearances from other beloved couples in the series adding to the charm. Milo’s patience and Christian’s journey of self-discovery made their love story both poignant and satisfying. This is a must-read for fans of second chances, childhood best friends-to-lovers, and heartfelt small-town romances. Highly recommended!
December 16, 2024
Imagine: deliciously looking chocolates filled with love and passion!
Milo runs a little chocolate shop Jingle Bites in Santa’s Village, but business isn’t going as he hoped. He still creates the most delicious chocolate.
It’s a small town, he understands Christian is back in town. Not just for a visit, but to stay.
Back in the days, before Milo had to leave town because of his parents’ work, he and Christian were best friends.
Milo had a crush on Christian, straight Christian, Milo not so.
Milo returned to town and started his chocolate shop, it took Christian longer to return, not voluntarily. In short, Christian is broke, depressed, and unhappy.
He’s not in a Christmas mood, but entering Milo’s shop changed everything for him.
It’s been fifteen years, reuniting was so easy if life could be just that.
Milo’s feelings for Christian are still there as if they never left, so sad Christian is straight.
Melancholic feelings all over the place, one feels so lonely and the other thinks he’s broken.
After Milo confessed about his crush on Christian, something happened, something changed, an out-of-the-body experience, something both never thought was possible! My heart!
“But as I couldn’t turn back time, I decided to be happy. And even that decision made me the happiest I had ever been.”
Milo with his golden heart, is so kind, delicate, warm, and soft, and always looking out for the others around him. For Christian, Milo is his safe place, something he yearned for!
Jingle Bites is heaven, the smell and taste of chocolate and the divine ingredients, yes, a little heaven on earth.
The soft touches brought to this story gave me goosebumps and touched my soul, it was pure poetry, full of kindness, love, and the good things in life!
Overall, it was a beautifully crafted Christmas miracle!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Milo runs a little chocolate shop Jingle Bites in Santa’s Village, but business isn’t going as he hoped. He still creates the most delicious chocolate.
It’s a small town, he understands Christian is back in town. Not just for a visit, but to stay.
Back in the days, before Milo had to leave town because of his parents’ work, he and Christian were best friends.
Milo had a crush on Christian, straight Christian, Milo not so.
Milo returned to town and started his chocolate shop, it took Christian longer to return, not voluntarily. In short, Christian is broke, depressed, and unhappy.
He’s not in a Christmas mood, but entering Milo’s shop changed everything for him.
It’s been fifteen years, reuniting was so easy if life could be just that.
Milo’s feelings for Christian are still there as if they never left, so sad Christian is straight.
Melancholic feelings all over the place, one feels so lonely and the other thinks he’s broken.
After Milo confessed about his crush on Christian, something happened, something changed, an out-of-the-body experience, something both never thought was possible! My heart!
“But as I couldn’t turn back time, I decided to be happy. And even that decision made me the happiest I had ever been.”
Milo with his golden heart, is so kind, delicate, warm, and soft, and always looking out for the others around him. For Christian, Milo is his safe place, something he yearned for!
Jingle Bites is heaven, the smell and taste of chocolate and the divine ingredients, yes, a little heaven on earth.
The soft touches brought to this story gave me goosebumps and touched my soul, it was pure poetry, full of kindness, love, and the good things in life!
Overall, it was a beautifully crafted Christmas miracle!
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
December 9, 2024
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Milo has returned to Christmas Falls after a fifteen-year absence and opened a chocolate store to sell his own handmade chocolates. So far, the store is not doing well because it’s competing with a chain store that can afford the cut prices. The only light in his life is that he heard that his once best friend and love interest, Christian, is back in town. Christian is back because of a failed relationship and a series of unsuccessful marketing jobs. Milo doesn’t have a lot of hope since Christian is straight, but he will be satisfied (not really) with being friends. Eventually, Milo reveals his feelings to Christian who kisses Milo but immediately regrets it and takes off. However, he returns after a few hours (and some soul-searching) and apologises for his actions. He invites Milo out and they attend the Craft Fair together. Milo is truly happy that his dream appears to have come true. They go through some brief problems on their way to attaining their HEA. And the mystery of “Secret Santa” is solved.
This is a very well written book, as I said, a fitting end to Season 2 of Christmas Falls. The plot is well-developed as is usual with the author. The fact that Milo and Christian have a history as best friends is a good way to introduce the romance that develops between them. Milo is a total sweetie whose business is struggling while Christian is going through internal struggles with relation to his personal life and his relationship with Milo. Both these difficulties are dealt with effectively by the author. The MCs interactions with locals in this busybody town appear realistic and pleasant. The secondary characters, many of whom we have met over the two seasons of Christmas Falls, Their advice is important to plot development and they (along with the rituals of the Christmas Falls Festival) are all well filled out as a result of the two seasons.
This book is great and I highly recommend it.
Milo has returned to Christmas Falls after a fifteen-year absence and opened a chocolate store to sell his own handmade chocolates. So far, the store is not doing well because it’s competing with a chain store that can afford the cut prices. The only light in his life is that he heard that his once best friend and love interest, Christian, is back in town. Christian is back because of a failed relationship and a series of unsuccessful marketing jobs. Milo doesn’t have a lot of hope since Christian is straight, but he will be satisfied (not really) with being friends. Eventually, Milo reveals his feelings to Christian who kisses Milo but immediately regrets it and takes off. However, he returns after a few hours (and some soul-searching) and apologises for his actions. He invites Milo out and they attend the Craft Fair together. Milo is truly happy that his dream appears to have come true. They go through some brief problems on their way to attaining their HEA. And the mystery of “Secret Santa” is solved.
This is a very well written book, as I said, a fitting end to Season 2 of Christmas Falls. The plot is well-developed as is usual with the author. The fact that Milo and Christian have a history as best friends is a good way to introduce the romance that develops between them. Milo is a total sweetie whose business is struggling while Christian is going through internal struggles with relation to his personal life and his relationship with Milo. Both these difficulties are dealt with effectively by the author. The MCs interactions with locals in this busybody town appear realistic and pleasant. The secondary characters, many of whom we have met over the two seasons of Christmas Falls, Their advice is important to plot development and they (along with the rituals of the Christmas Falls Festival) are all well filled out as a result of the two seasons.
This book is great and I highly recommend it.
December 14, 2024
This heartwarming story perfectly wraps up the Season Two series with satisfying reveal of the mysterious Secret Santa who has been quietly helping the residents of Christmas Falls. Mingle All the Way is the poignant tale of Milo and Christian, two childhood best friends whose lives took different paths when Milo’s family moved away from Christmas Falls. Fifteen years later, Milo has returned to his hometown and started Jingle Bites, a chocolate shop specializing in his handmade creations. However, Milo’s dream is struggling as his small shop faces stiff competition from a larger chain store. Christian, meanwhile, has also come back to Christmas Falls after a string of personal and professional disappointments in New York City. His dreams of landing a high-profile marketing career have fallen short, leaving him at a crossroads.
When Milo and Christian reconnect, it’s as if no time has passed. Old memories and unresolved feelings resurface, and both men start to question the boundaries of their friendship. The reveal of the Secret Santa adds an extra layer of charm and emotional closure to the story, tying together the threads of the series beautifully.
The characters in this story are vibrant and richly developed, making it easy to root for their happiness. Milo’s resilience and creativity in the face of adversity make him a deeply endearing protagonist, while Christian’s struggles with unfulfilled ambitions add depth to his journey. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the evolution of their relationship—from rekindled friendship to a potential romance—is both tender and authentic. With its well-developed plot, engaging characters, and heartfelt moments, Mingle All the Way is a must-read for fans of the Christmas Falls series or anyone looking for a touching holiday romance. Highly recommended!
When Milo and Christian reconnect, it’s as if no time has passed. Old memories and unresolved feelings resurface, and both men start to question the boundaries of their friendship. The reveal of the Secret Santa adds an extra layer of charm and emotional closure to the story, tying together the threads of the series beautifully.
The characters in this story are vibrant and richly developed, making it easy to root for their happiness. Milo’s resilience and creativity in the face of adversity make him a deeply endearing protagonist, while Christian’s struggles with unfulfilled ambitions add depth to his journey. Their chemistry is undeniable, and the evolution of their relationship—from rekindled friendship to a potential romance—is both tender and authentic. With its well-developed plot, engaging characters, and heartfelt moments, Mingle All the Way is a must-read for fans of the Christmas Falls series or anyone looking for a touching holiday romance. Highly recommended!
December 15, 2024
MINGLE ALL THE WAY is the tenth installment in the Christmas Falls Season 2 series. It is a multi-author series that can be read in any order as all the books are standalones. I do feel that this one should be read last due to a secret revel that is best left until the end.
Milo Montgomery left Christmas Falls when he was a teenager but always knew he would come back. He was the happiest and felt like he belonged so it just made sense to return as an adult. Opening his chocolate shop has been a labor of love. The people that do come in love his sweets but it's not enough to maintain long term. But that's okay Milo is doing what he loves and he loves seeing the people of Christmas Falls happy - that's his ultimate goal anyway. When his best friend comes back into town Milo can't help but fall back into those feelings that have been so ingrained in his soul. The only problem being is that Christian is straight.
After another failed relationship Christian comes back to Christmas Falls with his tail between his legs. He hates admitting he failed at his relationship and at his job. When he finally musters up the courage to see his old best friend he knows he made the right decision in coming home. Spending time with Milo is the best parts of his day. Remembering the past and coming face to face with feelings he never realized were there. It's been fifteen years since he saw Milo but he's never forget what Milo has meant to him, more than he ever thought possible.
I loved seeing Milo and Christian face the feelings they had for each other. Christian initially didn't react great but once he realized Milo has held his heart all along Christian was all in. Mingle All the Way was the perfect way to end Season 2. I can't wait to see if there is more from this special holiday town next year!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review by the author.
Milo Montgomery left Christmas Falls when he was a teenager but always knew he would come back. He was the happiest and felt like he belonged so it just made sense to return as an adult. Opening his chocolate shop has been a labor of love. The people that do come in love his sweets but it's not enough to maintain long term. But that's okay Milo is doing what he loves and he loves seeing the people of Christmas Falls happy - that's his ultimate goal anyway. When his best friend comes back into town Milo can't help but fall back into those feelings that have been so ingrained in his soul. The only problem being is that Christian is straight.
After another failed relationship Christian comes back to Christmas Falls with his tail between his legs. He hates admitting he failed at his relationship and at his job. When he finally musters up the courage to see his old best friend he knows he made the right decision in coming home. Spending time with Milo is the best parts of his day. Remembering the past and coming face to face with feelings he never realized were there. It's been fifteen years since he saw Milo but he's never forget what Milo has meant to him, more than he ever thought possible.
I loved seeing Milo and Christian face the feelings they had for each other. Christian initially didn't react great but once he realized Milo has held his heart all along Christian was all in. Mingle All the Way was the perfect way to end Season 2. I can't wait to see if there is more from this special holiday town next year!
I was given a free copy of this book to read and review by the author.
December 22, 2024
I LOVED Milo and Christian together, they were clearly meant for each other, soulmates even in childhood though Christian only saw it through the eyes of friendship and what was expected from a friendship such as theirs.
When Milo was forced to move away from Christmas Falls as a teen with his parents due to their work, both his and Christian’s lives were affected. Out of loneliness Milo taught himself the art of making chocolate while Christian vowed to never allow himself to care that much for anyone again and couldn’t wait to get away from Christmas Falls and the memories as soon as he could.
Fifteen years passed with Milo reaching out a few times with no response. Having never wanted to leave Christmas Falls in the first place, he returned and fulfilled his dream of opening his own chocolate shop, Jingle Bites (which has played a part in each of the Christmas Falls books) in which he sold unique treats of his own creation. Following a bitter breakup and unable to remain in New York City, Christian returned home to live with his parents further solidifying his feelings of failure until he found himself one evening in Jingle Bites, welcomed with a hug by his childhood best friend and wondering if starting over could be this easy…
They both broke my heart, Christian because he always felt unworthy of anything good and like a failure in life and Milo because of his never ending (I can’t say hope because he didn’t really even have that) WISH for Christian to return his love even while knowing Christian was straight. He was willing to settle for crumbs in order to have him in his life in any capacity at all.
For these reasons and more, this book was so amazingly good. I mean, even the childhood memories…they were so clearly described, they made ME homesick!!! I hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy the visit to Christmas Falls as much as I did. 5 stars!!
When Milo was forced to move away from Christmas Falls as a teen with his parents due to their work, both his and Christian’s lives were affected. Out of loneliness Milo taught himself the art of making chocolate while Christian vowed to never allow himself to care that much for anyone again and couldn’t wait to get away from Christmas Falls and the memories as soon as he could.
Fifteen years passed with Milo reaching out a few times with no response. Having never wanted to leave Christmas Falls in the first place, he returned and fulfilled his dream of opening his own chocolate shop, Jingle Bites (which has played a part in each of the Christmas Falls books) in which he sold unique treats of his own creation. Following a bitter breakup and unable to remain in New York City, Christian returned home to live with his parents further solidifying his feelings of failure until he found himself one evening in Jingle Bites, welcomed with a hug by his childhood best friend and wondering if starting over could be this easy…
They both broke my heart, Christian because he always felt unworthy of anything good and like a failure in life and Milo because of his never ending (I can’t say hope because he didn’t really even have that) WISH for Christian to return his love even while knowing Christian was straight. He was willing to settle for crumbs in order to have him in his life in any capacity at all.
For these reasons and more, this book was so amazingly good. I mean, even the childhood memories…they were so clearly described, they made ME homesick!!! I hope you’ll give it a try and enjoy the visit to Christmas Falls as much as I did. 5 stars!!
December 15, 2024
Mingle All the Way is the last book in Christmas Falls season two and I am so sad it's over already. Although, this is one of my favorites this season. Whenever Milo was mentioned in the other Christmas Falls books I was immediately intrigued by him, one of those reasons is because he's so kind to others, but the other reason is because he's a chocolatier. As someone who LOVES chocolate and baking, Milo's character was just so fun to read about.
I'll start off with applauding Hayden for researching what it takes to make chocolate bonbons, and what all goes into making different chocolates. There were a couple scenes where Milo was making chocolates and all the details describing what he was doing was accurate and realistic.
I love the friends to lovers trope, and childhood friends to lovers is the next best thing. Christian and Milo were friends throughout their childhood but Milo had to move away, leaving both these men heartbroken. Now that they are both back in their hometown they are reunited and they get to know one another as adults.
I thought this was a great romance story, it's not too angsty, but it's also not insta-love which I liked. There was so much chemistry between Christian and Milo. What I really enjoyed was how these two took the time to learn about each other as adults, and how they consistently spent time with one another to try to make up for all the time they lost.
The mysterious secret Santa that has been giving gifts to those who needs them is finally revealed! I'll say this, I was not expecting it to be who it ended up being! It was such a great surprise, and I loved how it was kept under wraps. Overall a fantastic story, and an excellent way to close out Christmas Falls; season two.
I'll start off with applauding Hayden for researching what it takes to make chocolate bonbons, and what all goes into making different chocolates. There were a couple scenes where Milo was making chocolates and all the details describing what he was doing was accurate and realistic.
I love the friends to lovers trope, and childhood friends to lovers is the next best thing. Christian and Milo were friends throughout their childhood but Milo had to move away, leaving both these men heartbroken. Now that they are both back in their hometown they are reunited and they get to know one another as adults.
I thought this was a great romance story, it's not too angsty, but it's also not insta-love which I liked. There was so much chemistry between Christian and Milo. What I really enjoyed was how these two took the time to learn about each other as adults, and how they consistently spent time with one another to try to make up for all the time they lost.
The mysterious secret Santa that has been giving gifts to those who needs them is finally revealed! I'll say this, I was not expecting it to be who it ended up being! It was such a great surprise, and I loved how it was kept under wraps. Overall a fantastic story, and an excellent way to close out Christmas Falls; season two.
December 16, 2024
Milo & Christian
I love a cute second chance romance, especially when one side doesn't even know it's a second chance yet. 🥰 Milo & Christian picked up their long lost friendship like no time had passed, but each harbored some confusion and hurt from their missing years. I loved the evolution of their relationship in this book, and I love how quickly Christian came to truly understand how he felt about his best friend. They both struggled with the enormity of their feelings, and I know Milo worried so much about Christian changing his mind in the future. I'm glad their friendship helped launch their relationship, and I'm very glad Milo was able to confess his feelings to Christian to shift their connection.
Ultimately, the overarching hook between all of the Season 2 stories was not totally surprising, while also being incredibly perfect for the essence of the series. I loved each of the Secret Santa moments among the stories, just like Season 1 had the Christmas graffiti art on the buildings (poor Griff 🤣). Our Secret Santa was sly and wonderfully sneaky about flying under the radar, and really never raised any suspicions among the nosy townspeople. It was probably the reason why it had worked, since there's no shortage of gossip around the town and everyone knows everyone else's business, so you'd never know which person was told the necessary information for each of the gifts. I loved the reveal of this moment at the end. It had more of an impact for me than the reveal from the previous season.
I loved Mingle All The Way and I'm so happy that Hayden had another fun story to add to the series. I am really looking forward to a reread of the entire series (perhaps even starting again from season 1) now that this season is complete.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I love a cute second chance romance, especially when one side doesn't even know it's a second chance yet. 🥰 Milo & Christian picked up their long lost friendship like no time had passed, but each harbored some confusion and hurt from their missing years. I loved the evolution of their relationship in this book, and I love how quickly Christian came to truly understand how he felt about his best friend. They both struggled with the enormity of their feelings, and I know Milo worried so much about Christian changing his mind in the future. I'm glad their friendship helped launch their relationship, and I'm very glad Milo was able to confess his feelings to Christian to shift their connection.
Ultimately, the overarching hook between all of the Season 2 stories was not totally surprising, while also being incredibly perfect for the essence of the series. I loved each of the Secret Santa moments among the stories, just like Season 1 had the Christmas graffiti art on the buildings (poor Griff 🤣). Our Secret Santa was sly and wonderfully sneaky about flying under the radar, and really never raised any suspicions among the nosy townspeople. It was probably the reason why it had worked, since there's no shortage of gossip around the town and everyone knows everyone else's business, so you'd never know which person was told the necessary information for each of the gifts. I loved the reveal of this moment at the end. It had more of an impact for me than the reveal from the previous season.
I loved Mingle All The Way and I'm so happy that Hayden had another fun story to add to the series. I am really looking forward to a reread of the entire series (perhaps even starting again from season 1) now that this season is complete.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
December 19, 2024
This is the final book in the Christmas Falls 2 series featuring Milo, the chocolatier of Jingle Bites Chocolate Heaven, and Christian, Milo’s newly returned crush, home after 15 years apart. Milo and Christian were best friends until Milo moved away when he was 13. He has recently returned to Christmas Falls to open his Chocolate business in the town he has always associated with home. Christian had left for college and the Big Apple, but is home after not really finding his niche in the business world. When the two reconnect, it’s like they hadn’t been apart for all those years once they get past the awkward first couple of days. Milo is still in love with Christian, and Christian is finding a sense of rightness being back with Milo, not really knowing why until he feels to urge to kiss him. Thus begins the developing relationship being embraced by both men. All is not without its bumps, but in a true Hallmark moment, true love is declared and the HEA is underway. As a side note, the identity of the Secret Santa is finally revealed.
Many of the couples that got together in the previous books make cameo appearances and many of the town’s more notable citizens also show up at various times, all part of the building of the world of Christmas Falls. The book is a sweet, engaging story with some steamy scenes as Milo and Christian connect in a more intimate way than they had in the past. The Secret Santa is alive and well in the background serving the citizens of Christmas Falls, adding a special presence to the community Festival and creating a holiday mood for the reader leading up to the days before Christmas. A very enjoyable book and series.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
Many of the couples that got together in the previous books make cameo appearances and many of the town’s more notable citizens also show up at various times, all part of the building of the world of Christmas Falls. The book is a sweet, engaging story with some steamy scenes as Milo and Christian connect in a more intimate way than they had in the past. The Secret Santa is alive and well in the background serving the citizens of Christmas Falls, adding a special presence to the community Festival and creating a holiday mood for the reader leading up to the days before Christmas. A very enjoyable book and series.
I received an ARC from the author and this is my voluntary review.
December 9, 2024
You know when sometimes you fall upon a story that you never want to end? Well Milo and Christian's is one of those.
They were best friends untill Milo and his family moved away. Milo tried to keep in touch through letters but Christian was too hurt so he didn't respond.
Move forward 15 years and Milo is back living in Christmas Falls where he's got a chocolate shop he's trying to make a succes. Things don't really go smoothly though but he doesn't want to give up on his dream.
Christian has returned to the little town after things going wrong in the big city. He'd hoped to make it but things didn't turn out the way he wanted.
Meeting Milo again makes him discover things about himself he never realised before. His feelings for Milo go a lot deeper than friendship and when he finds out Milo has been in love with him for nearly all his life, they grow even more close than before.
I loved how both men fell back into an easy friendship, it seemed as they'd never been apart but also started to realise that the feelings they shared went so much deeper. Milo's always had a crush on Christian, who was totally oblivious and though of himself as straight. It was so sweet to see how Christian went all in as soon as he knew it was Milo al along that was missing in his life.
This was a super story, unfortunately the last one in this great series. I sincerely hope there will be a Season 3!
*ARC kindly received from the author via Bookfunnel. This is my honest opinion.*
They were best friends untill Milo and his family moved away. Milo tried to keep in touch through letters but Christian was too hurt so he didn't respond.
Move forward 15 years and Milo is back living in Christmas Falls where he's got a chocolate shop he's trying to make a succes. Things don't really go smoothly though but he doesn't want to give up on his dream.
Christian has returned to the little town after things going wrong in the big city. He'd hoped to make it but things didn't turn out the way he wanted.
Meeting Milo again makes him discover things about himself he never realised before. His feelings for Milo go a lot deeper than friendship and when he finds out Milo has been in love with him for nearly all his life, they grow even more close than before.
I loved how both men fell back into an easy friendship, it seemed as they'd never been apart but also started to realise that the feelings they shared went so much deeper. Milo's always had a crush on Christian, who was totally oblivious and though of himself as straight. It was so sweet to see how Christian went all in as soon as he knew it was Milo al along that was missing in his life.
This was a super story, unfortunately the last one in this great series. I sincerely hope there will be a Season 3!
*ARC kindly received from the author via Bookfunnel. This is my honest opinion.*
December 19, 2024
Hayden Hall really tugs at your heartstrings with this second chance, childhood best friends to lovers holiday romance. It’s sweet, emotional, and a little bit angsty, but I can’t think of a better way to wrap up this series than with long-ago friends finding each other for the holidays.
It’s a classic case of two guys growing up as the best of friends only to be torn apart when one of them moves away. Despite the best of intentions, they lose touch and eventually move on with their lives, always wondering about what might have been. And because fate is a cruel mistress, they find themselves reunited in Christmas Falls, and all those feelings come rushing back - their friendship, what they meant to each other…everything.
Milo’s an absolute sweetheart - all that’s good and kind in the world - and you can really feel how special Christmas Falls is to him and what he lost when he left. He’s putting down roots in the town he loves, if only his struggling chocolate shop could turn a profit.
Christian’s equally as kind-hearted, if a bit prickly at first. A string of ill-fated career opportunities and failed relationships have left him a little disenchanted and uncertain about the future. For him, reconnecting with Milo is bittersweet, even if it seems to be just what he needs.
I really loved watching these two rekindle their friendship. It’s amazing and magical in all the ways you’d expect, but also a tiny bit heart wrenching to think about the time they’ve lost. It’s clear they’re important to each other, and the memories and realizations are everything.
This story is the perfect way to end to this multi-author series; I loved revisiting all the couples, both old and new. I was also excited to FINALLY learn the true identity of the Secret Santa who’s been mysteriously spreading holiday cheer all season long. It’s a fun reveal you won’t want to miss!
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
It’s a classic case of two guys growing up as the best of friends only to be torn apart when one of them moves away. Despite the best of intentions, they lose touch and eventually move on with their lives, always wondering about what might have been. And because fate is a cruel mistress, they find themselves reunited in Christmas Falls, and all those feelings come rushing back - their friendship, what they meant to each other…everything.
Milo’s an absolute sweetheart - all that’s good and kind in the world - and you can really feel how special Christmas Falls is to him and what he lost when he left. He’s putting down roots in the town he loves, if only his struggling chocolate shop could turn a profit.
Christian’s equally as kind-hearted, if a bit prickly at first. A string of ill-fated career opportunities and failed relationships have left him a little disenchanted and uncertain about the future. For him, reconnecting with Milo is bittersweet, even if it seems to be just what he needs.
I really loved watching these two rekindle their friendship. It’s amazing and magical in all the ways you’d expect, but also a tiny bit heart wrenching to think about the time they’ve lost. It’s clear they’re important to each other, and the memories and realizations are everything.
This story is the perfect way to end to this multi-author series; I loved revisiting all the couples, both old and new. I was also excited to FINALLY learn the true identity of the Secret Santa who’s been mysteriously spreading holiday cheer all season long. It’s a fun reveal you won’t want to miss!
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
December 19, 2024
A Hallmark Movie-like experience was promised, and this end of the second season delivered.
The mysterious secret Santa was revealed, a romance fostered while boys grew up in a magical town, and a community that responds to needs.
In this wonderfully written contribution to the closing chapter of the Christmas Falls Season 2, Hayden Hall delivered the closing scene with snow falling, love enduring and pieces falling together. The story line that two boys growing up in Christmas Falls clearly had a connection, but one was whisked away ending that connection. While the effect on the two was enduring and formed their personalities, it was shattered with different ways of dealing with the separation.
So when Christian returns to his hometown to soak his sorrows over yet another failed relationship, he's drawn to Milo as the two reconnect as friends. The story is well-told as they realize the connection they had, is really still there. Mr. Hall's writing makes the friendship bond durable and the two reconcile the different paths they took after their separation and now that they are back in the town they grew up in.
No spoilers here, but the Hallmark ending is warm and refreshing, and the ever recurring cast of characters is reassuring. The Secret Santa's revelation is tear territory.
I truly hope there's a season 3 with this excellent cast of characters in this small town, and of course, a group of wonderfully talented writers to bring it to us.
The mysterious secret Santa was revealed, a romance fostered while boys grew up in a magical town, and a community that responds to needs.
In this wonderfully written contribution to the closing chapter of the Christmas Falls Season 2, Hayden Hall delivered the closing scene with snow falling, love enduring and pieces falling together. The story line that two boys growing up in Christmas Falls clearly had a connection, but one was whisked away ending that connection. While the effect on the two was enduring and formed their personalities, it was shattered with different ways of dealing with the separation.
So when Christian returns to his hometown to soak his sorrows over yet another failed relationship, he's drawn to Milo as the two reconnect as friends. The story is well-told as they realize the connection they had, is really still there. Mr. Hall's writing makes the friendship bond durable and the two reconcile the different paths they took after their separation and now that they are back in the town they grew up in.
No spoilers here, but the Hallmark ending is warm and refreshing, and the ever recurring cast of characters is reassuring. The Secret Santa's revelation is tear territory.
I truly hope there's a season 3 with this excellent cast of characters in this small town, and of course, a group of wonderfully talented writers to bring it to us.
December 13, 2024
Put a bow on it 'cause that's a wrap on season 2 of Christmas Falls! The series ends with such a heartfelt story! Milo has had a crush on his best friend Christian since they were young kids, but then Milo had to move away with his parents. Christian never answered the letters Milo sent him. Now it's 15 years later and they're both back in town. These two have a reluctant but adorable reunion and eventually things get complicated. Christian was under the impression he's straight, but he's starting to figure out why there was never any fire in his past relationships with women.
Things escalate between them quickly once Christian figures out how he really feels, but it's not an easy road for these two since Milo's chocolate shop isn't doing well and Christian is unemployed.
🔥: Slowly paced scenes that are full of every detail and lots of passion. These two take their time!
😆: There are some funny moments along the way as these two rekindle their friendship, but this one is all about the love!
😭: Your eyes may water with this one since these two don't have the easiest time figuring out their lives, let alone a relationship.
Such a sweet story! I was so excited to finally find out who the secret Santa is that's been appearing in every book! An awesome surprise! I'm so sad to see the end of this season of Christmas Falls but I'm so thankful we got a second season!
Things escalate between them quickly once Christian figures out how he really feels, but it's not an easy road for these two since Milo's chocolate shop isn't doing well and Christian is unemployed.
🔥: Slowly paced scenes that are full of every detail and lots of passion. These two take their time!
😆: There are some funny moments along the way as these two rekindle their friendship, but this one is all about the love!
😭: Your eyes may water with this one since these two don't have the easiest time figuring out their lives, let alone a relationship.
Such a sweet story! I was so excited to finally find out who the secret Santa is that's been appearing in every book! An awesome surprise! I'm so sad to see the end of this season of Christmas Falls but I'm so thankful we got a second season!
December 14, 2024
This is the final book in the multi-author Christmas Falls Season 2 series and what a wonderful end it is. This is the story of Milo and Christian. Milo is a chocolatier and he is working very hard to make his brand new shop a success. He has returned to Christmas Falls after living here as a child. Christian always wanted to move to the big city and live his best life and that is what he did. Until he didn't. Having to return home after a failed relationship and a lack of employment shifts his confidence and his center. While growing up, Milo and Christian were best friends. When Milo's family left, their friendship withered off and died. Now after 15 years, Christian is back. He is hoping to rekindle his friendship with Milo. However, Milo has been in love with Christian for years and knows that he can never have him. He is willing to settle for being Christian's friend if that is all that he can have. But Milo has to figure out how to put Christian behind him or he will forever be alone. This is their story. This book is written well and is easy to read. I enjoyed finally discovering who was the Secret Santa throughout this series. This is another feel good, cozy, holiday read.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complimentary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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