The Holiday Claus

by Ann Einerson

Santa had it right with his Naughty and Nice list.

Me? I was firmly Team Nice.

Need help throwing together a holiday wedding in four days, big brother? No problem.

Need me to share my bed with your super hot best friend? If I must.

Want to be sure I won’t accidentally fall in love with said super hot best friend—Brooks Claus? Can’t promise that.

He may have moved away from our small town years ago, but there’s something about being near him again that brings back memories of that innocent crush I never quite got over.

Fifteen year old me had good taste because Brooks remains the hottest guy I’ve ever seen. Biceps to die for and a perpetual frown I wish I could flip.

He’s far too serious, much older, and exceptionally grumpy to ever be mine.

Until he kisses me under the mistletoe.

Where in the fine print does it say that being a little naughty can also be nice?

Genres: Christmas, Holiday, Romance, Novella, Forced Proximity, Holiday Romance, Small Town Romance

206 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 6, 2024

About the author

Ann Einerson is the author of enchanting contemporary romance novels that will keep you hooked until the very last page, complete with heroes who fall hard and the heroines who keep them on their toes. She believes sometimes the best family is the one we find, curiosity is good for the soul, and a good book isn’t complete without banter.

You can find Ann surrounded by her ample supply of sticky notes ready for inspiration and ideas. When she’s not writing, Ann enjoys spoiling her chatty pet chickens, listening to her dysfunctional playlists, and going for late-night treadmill runs. She lives in Michigan with her husband.

Follow Along Online:
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Reviews

[Heather Adores Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5⭐
Genre ~ holiday fiction
Setting ~ Vermont & California
Publication date ~ December 6, 2024
Est Page Count ~ 208 (p+ 15 chapters +e)
POV ~ dual 1st, present tense
Featuring ~ billionaire, best friends sister, brothers best friend, age gap, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity, one bed, some steamage

Author content warning ~ explicit sexual content, profanity, and mentions of the death of a parent and an absentee parent.

Brooks (33) & Lila (25) are working together to plan a last minute wedding for her brother and his best friend on Christmas Day. He’s not a big fan of Christmas for a very sad reason, while she loves everything about it. As they spend more time with each other Brooks is starting to see Lila as more than just the kid he knew 15 years ago, and just maybe he’ll get into the spirit of the festivities.

These two were so cute together. In fact, I adored every character, especially Brooks’s grandma/Lila’s boss, Kay. She seems like a fun lady. We hear from Lila’s bff, Fallon, and get a little set up for Ann’s next book. A sweater wearing, food snob, snow loving sassy dachshund named Winston steals the show more than not.

Overall, a delightfully festive read with fantastic banter, sizzling chemistry and zero drama.

Connect with me ➡ Blog ~ Facebook ~ X

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such cute holiday romance! It's small town and the heroine is the event planner in their town. A few months ago, she kissed her brother's best friend at her brother's engagement party, but she hasn't seen him since. Now, Christmas is soon and Brooks is visiting for the holidays. The wedding she's planning in canceled, so her brother decides to get married instead. They're thrown into wedding planning and Lila and Brooks dance around each other. His grandma definitely meddles and throws them into an only-one-bed situation. Lots of holiday vibes and a cute romance!

[Jenn (The Book Refuge) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another sweet and spicy Holiday novellas from Ann Einerson. I first fell in love with her small town romance last year with If You Give a Grump a Holiday Wishlist, so I was excited for another from her.

This book connects to the world through Lila, who is Fallon's friend and Fallon will be in the next release. In this romance, Lila is helping her brother's best friend, Brooks, pull off a surprise Holiday wedding for her brother and his fiance. Got it? And so what if she has had a crush on him for years and even kissed him a few months ago and hasn't stopped thinking about it.

It's a magical Christmas wedding on the line and Lila and Brooks are on the case. Good thing they have an adorable inn and meddling family members to make it happen. And if the inn is full and Brooks has to stay in her cabin with only one bed? Well, all the better!

This was a sweet little read with vibrant supporting characters and a charming animal companion. It has all the charm you need and a dash of spice to keep you warm and cozy.

I think this will scratch the itch for any holiday novella lover.

4 Stars
2.5 on the spice scale

*Thank you to the author for an ARC of this title.*

[Dul · Rating 4 out of 5]

I LOVED THIS AUTHOR

The story is set in a small town that he left, but to which he returned for her brother's wedding. This reunion brings back memories of the innocent crush she had on him before his departure.

I find it to be a very addictive and entertaining story, while remaining simple at the same time. At this point, Ann has become one of my favorite authors this year and one of my greatest discoveries of the same year.

[Canan · Rating 2 out of 5]

Diğer kitaplarına nazaran hiç olmamış. Çok monoton, düz bir okuma oldu. Okudum geçtim sayfaları.Duygular hiç geçmedi bana. Pek sevmedim.

[Kayla | Kayla Reads Smut · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had me at a weiner named Winston. No for real, I am a doxie mama and to see that the FMC has a dachshund names Winston, who plays a significant role in this book made my holiday season. It's Winston's world and Lila and Brooks just live in it. Which if you own a dachshund then you know how true that statement can be.

Ok let's get into the nitty gritty. This was such a super cute and heartfelt holiday novella! It gave me all of the feel good vibes. But honestly, if you give me a small town holiday novella with a trope being brother's best friend then I'm a happy camper. The Holiday Claus is a quick, fun and festive read this holiday season.

You should most definitely read this book if you like:
- Small Town Romance
- Brother's Best Friend
- Age Gap
- Billionaire Romance
- Grumpy x Sunshine

* I would like to say a huge thank you to Ann Einerson for allowing me to read The Holiday Claus as a ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts, opinions and review.

[Sienasummerrreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a feel-good Christmas read! At around 200 pages, I thoroughly enjoyed Brooks and Lila’s story. It was a quick read with great chemistry, featuring a grumpy MMC and a girl who’s been pining for her brother’s best friend for years. I loved the Whispering Pine Inn setting, complete with a charming grandmother who cleverly manipulated them into spending time together. If you’re looking for something that will leave you feeling warm pick it up.

If you love:

🔹Small Town
🔹Grumpy Sunshine
🔹Age Gap (8yrs)
🔹Billionaire
🔹Brothers Best Friend
🔹Great Spice

Genre/Type: Festive Adult Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 206
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟
Spice: 🌶️
Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone Novella
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Grumpy Sunshine, Age Gap (8yrs), Brothers Best Friend, Billionaire, One Bed, Jealousy, Chemistry, Mine, Playlist, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk and Shower Scene
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

All Round Romance Reader 
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
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[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ann is literally one of the queens of spice, story and banter. I loved this holiday novella! Also love when she adds a dog to the mix in her stories. Brooks is Lila’s brother’s best friend and they have known each other since they were kids. Brooks is a hot shot production CEO in CA and Lilia is a wedding planner in her hometown of Starlight Pines in Vermont. Lila has had a crush on Brooks since she was a teenager. Brooks sees Lila for the first time in over 10 years (they have a 8 year age gap, 25/33) at Lila’s brother’s engagement party and they hit it off and 4 months later they are planning a surprise wedding and falling for each other. Ann writes with such ease and it flows even when the book is short. I’m hoping there will be more stories of the Claus brothers with appearances by Grandma Kay and Winston the dachshund.

[CristiinaReads୨ৎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas came early with another Anne masterpiece that I am dying to dive into...



ARC kindly provided by the author in exchange for an honest review coming soon...

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[The Love Librarian · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was adorable! Brooks and Lila, his best friend’s sister, share a moment at her brother’s engagement party. They go their separate ways until they both end up in Starlight Pines for the holiday, with Lila planning her brother’s very last minute wedding, and Brooks being assigned as her helper.

I loved how the holidays brought out Brooks’ undercover love for the holidays. He had his reason for being a Scrooge, but Lila showed him it’s ok to slow down and dive into the holiday spirit. I definitely adored Lila’s dachshund, who had Brooks wrapped around his finger.

If you’re in the holiday romance mood, then pick this up! And you’re NOT new to the author, you’ll be excited for all the Fallon/Harrison teasers we got!

[Kirsten | Bookish.kir · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ann Einerson delivers again with an adorable spicy holiday romance. She has more than secured her spot as an auto buy author for me.
Brooks and Lila were totally opposite of one another, but they complimented each other so well, I loved the cozy small-town vibes, and the inclusion of furry friends, Winston is absolutely ADORABLE, the interactions between him and Brooks had me laughing out loud.
I also enjoyed the little bits of Fallon in this book, definitely got me even more excited for the next book in the Aspen Grove series. I need all the prank wars details asap🤭

If you are looking for a spicy slow burn holiday romance I definitely recommend picking this one up!

Holiday Novella
Billionaire CEO
Small Town
Best Friends Little Sister
Age Gap
Only One Bed
Forced Proximity

[Tori B · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️ this was so damn cute

[cozycornernovels ♡ · Rating 4 out of 5]

There’s something about a quick and cute Christmas novella that just gets you in the holiday spirit! Ann Einerson’s holiday books never fail to do just that! 🥰

This gave all of the holiday, small town vibes, where the community is tight knit and cares so much for one another. Brooks and Lila’s connection was clear and I loved seeing how well they meshed together. There were some very spicy moments between the two, so if you’re a fan of holiday books with spice in them, this one’s for you! 🔥 Winston the dog was an adorable add on to the story. I ALWAYS love when authors write cute animal companions into their books. 🥹 The little glimpses we got of Ann’s next book had me more than excited for what’s to come!

Thank you to Ann Einerson for the ARC! 🫶🏽

Read if you like/you can expect:
🎄 Holiday novella
🎀 Brother’s best friend
🎄 Grumpy x sunshine
🎀 Age gap
🎄 Small town
🎀 Billionaire Romance
🎄 Open door spice

My ratings:
4 ⭐️
🌶️🌶️.5

[Pandora · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this holiday romance between Brooks and Lila, and who could forget adorable little Winston?!
Their chemistry from the beginning was undeniable and I couldn't wait for the 'f@ck it' moment that I knew was coming. The little hints at the coming story between Harrison and Fallon were also perfect, and also hilarious. I can't wait to see what's going to happen in their book. Not to mention the hints at possible future stories including Brooks's brothers. Regardless, if Ann writes it, sign me up!

[Chelsea · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really liked Einerson's other books in the Aspen Grove series, so I was looking forward to this new series. Unfortunately, this one just didn't work for me.

I think some of the issues may have been fixed if this was a full-length novel & not a novella. The shorter length made it so we were told a bunch of things instead of shown. The MMC comes out of the gate on page 1 saying basically just how much of a grumpy, workaholic asshole he is. It made me roll my eyes with how ridiculous it came across. Then, throughout the book, I feel like he tried to be seen that way, but I didn't really see the evidence of it. Because of this, his character development felt like it didn't really happen.

The FMC was the typical bubbly Christmas fanatic, which is fine, but that was about her only personality trait. The MMC praises her for how well she does at her job, but we don't see much of it because it's always glossed over & rushed through.

I didn't ever really get the MCs connection. I didn't feel any pull towards their relationship, & I wasn't necessarily rooting for them to finally get together. I was just ready to get to the end.

There were also a few continuity issues & some typos that I felt should have been edited out. Overall, everything in this just felt rushed & like it was put together quickly. I'm hoping that the other full-length novels in this series turn out better.

[Bryanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

Alpha Edits 🎄

[Christi (christireadsalot) · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Holiday Claus is such a cute, low angst, holiday romance novella! Think like Hallmark vibes with spice and sweetness rolled into one. It’s small town, brother’s best friend, grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, billionaire hero, and age gap!

“The real magic of Christmas isn’t the presents wrapped in ribbon or the light-covered trees—it’s her.”

Lila has always crushed on her brother’s best friend Brooks, ever since he taught her how to ride a bike all those years ago. Now it’s years later and they run into one another at her brother’s engagement party and share a kiss in a photo booth (right before he realizes who she is)! This was just so adorable and fun, we get some forced proximity when they end up sharing a cottage at his grandma’s inn where Lila works. Lots of spending time together to prep and plan for a wedding being held on Christmas! Lots of cutesy winter activities and the chemistry was delightful between these 2!

I always have a fun time with Ann Einerson’s books and this holiday novella was no different, perfect bite-size holiday read! I received an ARC, all thoughts in this review are my own.

[NJS Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved this holiday novella. It was the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit. It gave all the feel good vibes - cosy, cute and spicy.

Brother’s best friend is my ultimate favourite trope and Ann done it so well.

Brooks and Lila were so cute. There was a slow burn and lots of tension which made Brooks f**k it moment everything we wanted.

Brooks’ Grandma, Kay, is my absolute favourite. I love a Grandma who secretly plays Cupid.

🎄 Brother’s best friend
🎄 Small town romance
🎄 Age gap
🎄 Grumpy x Sunshine
🎄 Billionaire romance
🎄 No third act break up
🎄 One bed
🎄 Hallmark with spice
🎄 Christmas novella

Thank you so much to Ann Einerson for the ARC of this book. I’ll definitely be reading more from this author.

[Haily Volk · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5⭐️
2/5🌶️

Omg this book was PERFECT for a holiday novella. I love them soo much. It was a quick spicy read which I LOVE. I mean come on. You get a grumpy MMC and a girl who has been pining for her brother’s best friend for years. Brooks and Lila were complete opposites of one another, but they complimented each other so well. Their chemistry? EVERYTHING!! I loved how Brook’s was tired of staying away from Lila so he decided he will do anything to make Lila his.

If you’re looking for a short spicy holiday read, then this book is for you! I couldn’t recommend it enough! Plus, the cover?! I am in love.

Thank you so much to Ann Einerson for the arc! 😊

Tropes:
♥️Small Town
🎄Spicy Hallmark Novella
♥️Billionaire Romance
🎄Age Gap (8 years)
♥️Brother’s Best Friend
🎄One Bed
♥️Grumpy x Sunshine

[Katie · Rating 5 out of 5]

all of my favourite tropes rolled into one 🤤 absolute perfection

[sam 𐙚 ⋆｡˚ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I need a Lila in my life to organise my winter wedding for me 🤭🎄

[Becca · Rating 1 out of 5]

this was SO cringey lol i have NO idea how it has such a high rating…. DON’T READ THIS!

0.5⭐️

[veronica ☽ · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars ⭐️ An adorable novella! Just in time for Christmas too!

[Anca A · Rating 5 out of 5]

#Review: *The Holiday Claus* - Ann Einerson [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️

Another Christmas story for me this month🤭. This time it was about the latest book by Ann Einerson. Thank you sooo much for this opportunity, to be part of you ARC team!

This book follows the love story of Brook and Lila. They haven't seen each other in a long while and when they meet again, Brooks doesn't even recognises Lila, but somehow, he felt attracted to her. Before realizing who she is, they had an hot moment in a photobooth, where they kissed like they were teenagers. But, after realizing which were all the implications that came with the knowledge of who they are in fact for each other, they again split ways for a couple of months. That moment will constantly haunt them in the whole period they won't see each other, in the best and most tortures way.

Four months later and Brooks and Lila are again in each others presence, with the occasion of Lila's brother's wedding. This time it was even harder to deny the fire which ignited between them. On top of that, other external factors and, more important, persons🤭, will make their job even harder to stay away form each other.

Because of their forced proximity, while working on the wedding preparations, the banter was constantly present and it was something I adored! Brook's grandma was something else, because she was really funny in the way she schemed to make her wishes come true😅. Another cute thing was Lila's dog, Winston, who was a menace, having a pretty strong personality. It made me laugh many times🤭. Apparently, Ann knows how to incorporate cute and funny dogs in her stories, having another strong personality in one of her previous books - Waffles from the 1st book of 'Aspen Grove' series.

The fiery relationship between Brook and Lila was a fairy-tale while they where in Starlight Pines, but California was Brook's actual home and that was a pretty big issue to overcome in their relationship, because it had an expiration date. I liked that there wasn't a 3rd act breakup and no drama, only lots of fun and good vibes. Also, a couple of characters which will be present in Ann's next book were present or mentioned in this story.

This was a super nice Christmassy book, which I totally recommend for you to read this month, or anytime during holidays. You'll definitely have a great time while reading it and fell in love with these characters.

✨Tropes
#GrumpySunshine
#AgeGap
#OneBed
#BrothersBestFriend
#SmallTown
#BillionaireRomance
#HallmarkWithSpice
#NoThirdActBreakup

[What Sam Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was an absolute holiday treat! It was the perfect blend of small-town charm, laugh-out-loud moments, and a slow-burn romance that will warm even the frostiest hearts… hint hint Brooks!!

The pull between the ray of sunshine, always-helpful Lila and the broody, grumpy-but-irresistible Brooks is on fire. Seeing how their chemistry unfolded was pure magic. You can’t help but swoon for Brooks as his broody layers are slowly peeled away.

Who can pull off a dreamy, Christmas wedding in 6 days?? Definitely Lila!! And who better to help her than Brooks! Oh and we can’t forget about Grandma Kay, the little instigator!

I hope this is not the last we see of Brooks and Lila. And are there some hints of a Sutton and Jameson book??

Winston gets his own little shoutout! Ann did such an amazing job putting into words just how stubborn dachshunds are. Reminded me of my own grumpy old man! If you’ve never owned a dachshund, first off… why? And second, Winston is the true definition of a dachshund. Loyal, grumpy, doesn’t listen, will do anything for a treat, and don’t mess with their bed. Hahaha

The Holiday Claus truly captured everything I love about holiday romances: the cozy setting, fiery tension, and the idea that sometimes, being a little naughty can lead to something oh-so-nice. Highly recommend for anyone looking to escape into a feel-good, festive romance!

[The.BlondeReader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Hooked from page one! I love how this couple’s story jumps right in, with perfectly timed skips, so nothing important is missed.

This novella had everything I could want: a Hallmark-esque holiday romance with enough spice, childhood-crush-to-lovers, and sweet little details that made me swoon over Brooks 😍

Let’s talk about Winston—the sassy dachshund who absolutely rules the house. He stole my heart! 🐾 Already, I need to know about Brooks' other brothers, so I hope we learn more about them later 🙏

The dynamic between Fallon and Lila added so much charm. I love that they are Bestfriends. Their hilarious texts had me smiling the whole time, and it’s made me even more excited for Fallons and Harrison’s upcoming story (and the demon cat!).

When we hit the “F-it moment,” wow, did things heat up! 🔥 The spice was just right and fit perfectly into the story 🥵

If you’re in the mood for a quick festive read that’ll leave you smiling (and blushing!), don’t miss this one! ✨️

[all.the.smut.things · Rating 4 out of 5]

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🔥🔥

I loved this so much! Ann is quickly becoming one of my comfort authors! Her brand of mixing sweet and spicy just makes me kick my feet with giddiness every single time.

Brooks and Lila are absolutely adorable and their sweet whirlwind holiday romance left me swooning! Also let me tell you, Winston the dachshund stole the entire books.

Just give me meddling grandmothers and sweet puppies and I’m in love.

• Holiday Novella
• Brothers Best Friend
• Age Gap
• Grumpy X Sunshine
• One Bed

Brooks and Lila’s brother have been best friends since childhood, and Lila has always had a crush on her brothers best friend. brooks kisses Lila at a party before he realizes who she is, and then when they meet again at Christmas and have to help plan a wedding together, the sparks between them fly.

Look I am a sucker for insta-love in a novella and Brooks falling so hard and so fast and changing his grumpy attitude was so much fun to read. The spice hit just right and I absolutely ate up every word of this!

[Aim · Rating 5 out of 5]

"You’re going to be my ruin, Lila Monroe, and I’m not even sorry about it.”

You guysssss. I loved this book. 😭 I love Ann’s writing and The Holiday Claus was so so good. I loved Lila and Brooks’ story. It was the perfect blend of holiday, romance, spice, and comedy.

I loved the tension between Lila and Brooks. You could just tell that it’s been brewing for YEARS and then after what happens at Lila’s brother’s engagement party? 🥵 and then when there’s only one bed!? Ugh. Perfect.

Winston and Kay were some of my favorite side characters probably ever 😂 I’ve never met a wiener dog with so much personality and I love a meddling grandma. They were both so sassy but in the best way.

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🔥🔥

Tropes:
🎄Brother’s Best Friend
🩷Grumpy/Sunshine
🎄Billionaire
🩷Only One Bed
🎄Small Town
🩷Age Gap
🎄No 3rd Act Breakup
🩷Spicy Hallmark

[Amity Bailey · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars!

Such a feel good holiday novella!! Make it brother’s best friend, grumpy billionaire, & an age gap?! Yes please.
This one was full of chemistry, banter, and the perfect spice! Don’t forget the cutest little pup, Winston! 🤭

Brooks & Lila’s story was such a good one. Brooks is back in town for his best friend’s wedding. Lila has had a childhood crush and his return stirs up all the memories & feelings! Their connection was undeniable & the added banter made this one so fun!

[syd · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars OKAYYYY CUTE. legit everything a romance reader could want all in one book plus christmas ✨ beautiful.

had all the great tropes. close proximity, brothers best friend, grump sunshine…. fabulousssss 💞

kay be knowing the tea-ayy! LOL love the grandma getting involved behind the scenes. just yes to everything thank u very much, was not disappointed in the slightest.