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Wordplay
Gnome One Like You
After being unceremoniously evicted from her craft shop right before Christmas, ambitious carpenter Andi Johnson must pick up shifts at her grandparents’ bakery to earn enough to sue her slummy landlord. Just trying to make it through the holidays, the last thing Andi needs is a distraction in the form of her brother’s best friend—the man who stole her heart years ago only to crush it in front of the entire high school. When her car breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, she has no choice but to accept the ride home he offers.
Reformed bad boy and cutthroat lawyer Winchester Robinson’s grandmother refuses to retire and pass on the family law firm until he convinces her he values something more than just his win-loss streak. Discovering his old flame stranded on the side of the road could solve his problem but facing down her protective big brother and his own feelings of unworthiness, might be too big of a roadblock for him to overcome.
As the storm worsens, they’re forced to seek refuge at Win’s family’s house, where his Nana is staying for the holiday. Win seizes the opportunity and begs Andi to pretend to be his girlfriend for the weekend to appease Nana’s worries, offering to take on her lawsuit in exchange for the favor. Realizing it could be a Christmas blessing, Andi agrees. But Christmas cheer brings back old feelings neither want to face. This holiday season could bring gifts of love…if they can move on from the past and look to the future.
Reformed bad boy and cutthroat lawyer Winchester Robinson’s grandmother refuses to retire and pass on the family law firm until he convinces her he values something more than just his win-loss streak. Discovering his old flame stranded on the side of the road could solve his problem but facing down her protective big brother and his own feelings of unworthiness, might be too big of a roadblock for him to overcome.
As the storm worsens, they’re forced to seek refuge at Win’s family’s house, where his Nana is staying for the holiday. Win seizes the opportunity and begs Andi to pretend to be his girlfriend for the weekend to appease Nana’s worries, offering to take on her lawsuit in exchange for the favor. Realizing it could be a Christmas blessing, Andi agrees. But Christmas cheer brings back old feelings neither want to face. This holiday season could bring gifts of love…if they can move on from the past and look to the future.
174 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 14, 2024
49 people are currently reading
290 people want to read
About the author
Tobie Carter
5 books70 followersTobie Carter is a fiction writer of contemporary romance and suspense who will die on the hill saying that there was absolutely enough room on that plank for both of them. Her stories are fast-paced, angsty, high heat, and feature relatable characters who refuse to settle for less than they deserve.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 140 reviews
November 22, 2024
This was a pretty quick read and the relationship itself was cute but it dragged a bit too much for me. Still, the family dynamics we saw and the cast of characters were really well developed for a novella.
I received an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
I received an early copy in exchange for an honest review.
December 25, 2024
An emotional and funny novella with a down bad boy willing to beg. In this second chance romance there’s a lot of gnome puns and a snow storm that makes things steamy!
November 8, 2024
This was a good book , just in time for Christmas. It was only 174 pages long
November 10, 2024
♥️ Dual POV
⭐️ Fake dating
🐻 Brothers best friend
🐝 Second chance romance
🧚♂️ One bed
♥️ Witty Banter
🫎 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🎄 Christmas holiday season
🌶️ spicy
After being unceremoniously evicted from her craft shop right before Christmas, ambitious carpenter Dandelion Johnson must pick up shifts at her grandparents’ bakery to earn enough to sue her slummy landlord. Just trying to make it through the holidays, the last thing Andi needs is a distraction in the form of her brother’s best friend—the man who stole her heart years ago only to crush it in front of the entire high school. When her car breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, she has no choice but to accept the ride home he offers.
Reformed bad boy and cutthroat lawyer Winchester Robinson’s grandmother refuses to retire and make him a partner at the family law firm until he convinces her he values something more than just his win-loss streak. Discovering his old flame stranded on the side of the road could solve his problem but facing down her protective big brother and his own feelings of unworthiness might be too big of a roadblock for him to overcome.
I loved this little spicy Christmas Novella.
It was so fun to read! The banter of Andi and Win had me giggling every moment.
This story is one of second chances. It had some of my favourite tropes in it!
I know it’s a novella but I didn’t want it to end! I wish it was longer!
would rate this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
⭐️ Fake dating
🐻 Brothers best friend
🐝 Second chance romance
🧚♂️ One bed
♥️ Witty Banter
🫎 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🎄 Christmas holiday season
🌶️ spicy
After being unceremoniously evicted from her craft shop right before Christmas, ambitious carpenter Dandelion Johnson must pick up shifts at her grandparents’ bakery to earn enough to sue her slummy landlord. Just trying to make it through the holidays, the last thing Andi needs is a distraction in the form of her brother’s best friend—the man who stole her heart years ago only to crush it in front of the entire high school. When her car breaks down in the middle of a snowstorm, she has no choice but to accept the ride home he offers.
Reformed bad boy and cutthroat lawyer Winchester Robinson’s grandmother refuses to retire and make him a partner at the family law firm until he convinces her he values something more than just his win-loss streak. Discovering his old flame stranded on the side of the road could solve his problem but facing down her protective big brother and his own feelings of unworthiness might be too big of a roadblock for him to overcome.
I loved this little spicy Christmas Novella.
It was so fun to read! The banter of Andi and Win had me giggling every moment.
This story is one of second chances. It had some of my favourite tropes in it!
I know it’s a novella but I didn’t want it to end! I wish it was longer!
would rate this ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 16, 2024
I enjoyed this second chance, brother’s best friend, holiday novella 🎄
📖 Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
⭐️: 4/5
🌶️: open door, a few scenes
💭 overall thoughts:
This was a lot deeper than I was expecting for a holiday novella, and I loved that!
The author did a great job at conveying the history between the MCs, what tore them apart and the deep connection they had.
Andi & Win barely had a chance to be together as teens before various circumstances tore them apart.
They’re back together in the present, snowed in & fake dating to appease Win’s Nana, pushing them to confess feelings that never left 🥹
I love how even though Win had his doubts about his worth, Andi fought for what she knew they both felt 🥰
read if you love:
⌛️ second chance
💙 brother’s best friend
🥸 fake dating
🥹 it’s always been you
❄️ snowed in
💞 dual 1st person pov
📖 Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
⭐️: 4/5
🌶️: open door, a few scenes
💭 overall thoughts:
This was a lot deeper than I was expecting for a holiday novella, and I loved that!
The author did a great job at conveying the history between the MCs, what tore them apart and the deep connection they had.
Andi & Win barely had a chance to be together as teens before various circumstances tore them apart.
They’re back together in the present, snowed in & fake dating to appease Win’s Nana, pushing them to confess feelings that never left 🥹
I love how even though Win had his doubts about his worth, Andi fought for what she knew they both felt 🥰
read if you love:
⌛️ second chance
💙 brother’s best friend
🥸 fake dating
🥹 it’s always been you
❄️ snowed in
💞 dual 1st person pov
December 19, 2024
This was so freaking cute. It had me giggling and kicking my feet from the beginning!
Love Andi & Winchester and how they were able to communicate like adults for the most part.
I hated how Win felt about himself, just because his dad was awful doesn’t make him an awful person. Glad he was able to realize that so he doesn’t lose Andi.
Andi’s brother was an ass because he was just okay with the way his parents treated Andi and did nothing to help. I was so glad when she gave him a piece of her mind.
I love how this book was straight to the point and didn’t over do it.
I may continue reading the rest of the series.
Love Andi & Winchester and how they were able to communicate like adults for the most part.
I hated how Win felt about himself, just because his dad was awful doesn’t make him an awful person. Glad he was able to realize that so he doesn’t lose Andi.
Andi’s brother was an ass because he was just okay with the way his parents treated Andi and did nothing to help. I was so glad when she gave him a piece of her mind.
I love how this book was straight to the point and didn’t over do it.
I may continue reading the rest of the series.
September 15, 2024
I finished this book in one day, and if it wasn’t for the steamy scenes and being surrounded by people I would have finished it in one sitting.
This book was a trip and a delight from beginning to end and kept me on my toes the whole time. I fell in love with the characters and my only complaint was that it was over way too soon.
This book was a trip and a delight from beginning to end and kept me on my toes the whole time. I fell in love with the characters and my only complaint was that it was over way too soon.
November 30, 2024
This was a really good time!! This is my first read from this author and she combined a few of my favorite things Christmas, Fake Dating and Second Chance….Brother’s Best Friend was like the cherry on top. The banter between Andi and Win was TOP TIER…..and it made the feelings between them feel so real. Win is down SO BAD Andi and I was eating that up!! If you’re looking for a cute kinda steamy holiday read, I’d definitely put this on your TBR!!!
November 30, 2024
Pick this up if you're looking for a cute, short, shot of 2nd chance romance.
Very Hallmark Christmas movie vibes. Reading this definitely made me realize I'm more of a dark, messy, romance girlie but this made for a cute palette cleanser! 😁
Just a bit of spice. Perfect for a novella.
I just finished reading this ARC and it gets between a 3.5-3.75 from me.
Very Hallmark Christmas movie vibes. Reading this definitely made me realize I'm more of a dark, messy, romance girlie but this made for a cute palette cleanser! 😁
Just a bit of spice. Perfect for a novella.
I just finished reading this ARC and it gets between a 3.5-3.75 from me.
November 30, 2024
Spicy:🌶🌶🌶
This is a fun novella. The storyline is easy to follow. The banter is cute between the FMC and the MMC. This has dual POV, which I liked and the story flowed well. I don't read many romance novels/novellas, but overall, I enjoyed this one. This is the perfect read for the holiday season.
This is a fun novella. The storyline is easy to follow. The banter is cute between the FMC and the MMC. This has dual POV, which I liked and the story flowed well. I don't read many romance novels/novellas, but overall, I enjoyed this one. This is the perfect read for the holiday season.
November 19, 2024
If you couldn't tell from the name, there are some gnomes included, but they don't turn into gnomes like Gnomeo and Juliete (which I definitely didn't think was going to happen...) but this is instead a very cute and spicy second chance romance!
The FMC, Andi, and the MMC, Win, have known each other for years because Win is best friends with Andi's brother and they used to date 10 years prior to when the book takes place but one night at a bonfire changes everything between them.
Bow 10 years later, during a crazy snow storm, they end up snowed in together while trying to convince his grandma that they are a couple and have been for a while and also trying to ignore the sparks that are still flying between them.
I absolutely loved this story. The characters were so cute, and the banter was top tier. If you love a back and forth with two people who are supposed to hate each other than this is definitely the book for you. Every character except the main characters, and maybe the brother, Solomon, can see how much love there is still between the characters and help to push them together as much as they can.
As for the spice, if you would have told me that using legal jargon during spicy times could be funny I would side eye you like 🤨 but no it actually can be. The way Win acted when it came time to get down to it? Absolutely feral for it. Like I never really got the "He falls harder/ he loves her more" trope but Win definitely has all those characteristics for sure. I'm absolutely obsessed with these characters and if there are other books within this series, I'm going to immediately read them.
Tobie is a new author to me and I will definitely be checking for a backlog because this was such a fun read while also being spicy and heartwarming. Thank you to Luna Literary and Tobie Carter for allowing me to ARC read!
The FMC, Andi, and the MMC, Win, have known each other for years because Win is best friends with Andi's brother and they used to date 10 years prior to when the book takes place but one night at a bonfire changes everything between them.
Bow 10 years later, during a crazy snow storm, they end up snowed in together while trying to convince his grandma that they are a couple and have been for a while and also trying to ignore the sparks that are still flying between them.
I absolutely loved this story. The characters were so cute, and the banter was top tier. If you love a back and forth with two people who are supposed to hate each other than this is definitely the book for you. Every character except the main characters, and maybe the brother, Solomon, can see how much love there is still between the characters and help to push them together as much as they can.
As for the spice, if you would have told me that using legal jargon during spicy times could be funny I would side eye you like 🤨 but no it actually can be. The way Win acted when it came time to get down to it? Absolutely feral for it. Like I never really got the "He falls harder/ he loves her more" trope but Win definitely has all those characteristics for sure. I'm absolutely obsessed with these characters and if there are other books within this series, I'm going to immediately read them.
Tobie is a new author to me and I will definitely be checking for a backlog because this was such a fun read while also being spicy and heartwarming. Thank you to Luna Literary and Tobie Carter for allowing me to ARC read!
November 26, 2024
❝ Andi is—and has always been—the person I care about most in this world. ❞
₊˚⊹ᰔ REVIEW
𐙚 Gnome One Like You is a cute short novella and i like it!
Andi is my girl with her handmade Gnomes that she whittles herself🥰
Win aka Winchester is my gnome loving man💕 he supports Andi before he even knew she made the gnomes!
if you are looking for:
— novella under 200 pages
— second chance
— fake dating
— brothers best friend
then you should read Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter out everywhere including KU
❝ Dandi, I fell in love ten years ago. ❞
₊˚⊹ᰔ FAVORITE CHARACTER(S)
𐙚 Andi aka Dandelion
₊˚⊹ᰔ REVIEW
𐙚 Gnome One Like You is a cute short novella and i like it!
Andi is my girl with her handmade Gnomes that she whittles herself🥰
Win aka Winchester is my gnome loving man💕 he supports Andi before he even knew she made the gnomes!
if you are looking for:
— novella under 200 pages
— second chance
— fake dating
— brothers best friend
then you should read Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter out everywhere including KU
❝ Dandi, I fell in love ten years ago. ❞
₊˚⊹ᰔ FAVORITE CHARACTER(S)
𐙚 Andi aka Dandelion
November 20, 2024
This was a fun little Christmas novella! Definitely felt like a spicy Hallmark style second chance romance. I enjoyed it!
If you like one bed, fake dating, characters in their 30s, sweet lil grandmas who will kick your rear if you don't get your act together, lawyer MMC x best friend's little sister, gnome puns, etc., then this book is for you!
Content: language, wide open door explicit s*x
Thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
If you like one bed, fake dating, characters in their 30s, sweet lil grandmas who will kick your rear if you don't get your act together, lawyer MMC x best friend's little sister, gnome puns, etc., then this book is for you!
Content: language, wide open door explicit s*x
Thank you to the author for the advanced reader copy of this book. This review is voluntarily written and the thoughts and opinions contained in this review are my own.
December 7, 2025
mistakes don’t define you
Such a cute read that was more than what meets the eye. Dandelion and Win haven’t seen each other in years; their childhood friendship/crush didn’t end well and so many things were left unsaid.. However, years later and they’re both in a bind and decide to help one another out. Fake dating and close proximity… SIGN ME UP! I enjoyed the push and pull and also Dandelion’s slick comments. Win, although an adult was a troubled man… you can’t rewrite your past sir, just learn from it and adapt… be and do better. It’s okay to forgive yourself.
Such a cute read that was more than what meets the eye. Dandelion and Win haven’t seen each other in years; their childhood friendship/crush didn’t end well and so many things were left unsaid.. However, years later and they’re both in a bind and decide to help one another out. Fake dating and close proximity… SIGN ME UP! I enjoyed the push and pull and also Dandelion’s slick comments. Win, although an adult was a troubled man… you can’t rewrite your past sir, just learn from it and adapt… be and do better. It’s okay to forgive yourself.
December 27, 2024
Gnome for Christmas
This was such a cute sexy read. I’ll be thinking about it each time I pass a Christmas gnome. Win and Andi’s banter was so much fun and a whole snowed in cast of characters rounded out the story. It just confirmed I’ll keep reading what Tobie Carter writes.
This was such a cute sexy read. I’ll be thinking about it each time I pass a Christmas gnome. Win and Andi’s banter was so much fun and a whole snowed in cast of characters rounded out the story. It just confirmed I’ll keep reading what Tobie Carter writes.
November 9, 2024
I enjoyed this holiday read. It was a refreshing novella that gave me all the holiday vibes and was super cute.
November 30, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Gnome One Like You is the second book in Tobie Carter's Wordplay Series. It's a cute Christmas novella!
This was a quick and fun holiday story! Win and Andi had the most amazing banter! This book was both spicy and funny. I couldn’t stop giggling. I sped through the pages! I adored Nana as well! She was a powerful presence. If you're searching for a spicy short holiday story, this is the one!
What to expect:
💞 Second-chance romance
👩❤️💋👨 Forced proximity
💫 Fake Dating
👥 Brother's Best Friend
🛏️ Only One Bed
👵 Meddling Nana
🎄 Creative use of holiday decorations
🤭 Witty banter
💥 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🌶️ Open-door
🗣️ Dual POV
Thank you so much @tobiecarter.writer and @lunaliterary.management for the e-ARC! This was definitely one of my favorite holiday novellas!
2 🌶️
Gnome One Like You is the second book in Tobie Carter's Wordplay Series. It's a cute Christmas novella!
This was a quick and fun holiday story! Win and Andi had the most amazing banter! This book was both spicy and funny. I couldn’t stop giggling. I sped through the pages! I adored Nana as well! She was a powerful presence. If you're searching for a spicy short holiday story, this is the one!
What to expect:
💞 Second-chance romance
👩❤️💋👨 Forced proximity
💫 Fake Dating
👥 Brother's Best Friend
🛏️ Only One Bed
👵 Meddling Nana
🎄 Creative use of holiday decorations
🤭 Witty banter
💥 Reverse Grumpy/Sunshine
🌶️ Open-door
🗣️ Dual POV
Thank you so much @tobiecarter.writer and @lunaliterary.management for the e-ARC! This was definitely one of my favorite holiday novellas!
November 9, 2024
Such a cute second chance novella! I was immediately drawn to the story from the beginning 💚
Winchester and Dandelion haven't seen each other in a decade, and Win just so happened to come across Dandi in her grandparents' bakery. From gnome puns to witty banters, we get to see how the two rehash their past and move forward. Now that they've been given a second chance at love, they won't want to mess things up.
Honestly, this was cute. At first, I was a bit iffy about the 10 years, but I realized that they had to work on themselves and grow up more, so I was okay with it in the end. With that said, I loved the character growth of the two, but especially with Win. He started out rough, and we witness him still struggling with that during the present time and then, we see him move forward from it. I think that was a beautiful addition to the story, and I appreciated that.
For the brother's best friend trope, I'm always in the look-out for a good book that has that, but a recurring problem is the FMC's brother. I get that it's probably realistic for a brother to react like that, but in this one, I just found it childish. We see the two main characters who have gone through character development, but for some reason the brother still hasn't grown up? He was a shitty brother and friend, and it took him 10 years and someone else saying it to his face for him to realize that.
Anyway, moving past that rant, I also think that the "it's always been you" trope was done so well in this ❤️ Even Win's mom and Nana believed the two belonged together, and I loved how supportive they were. I'm also glad we didn't get to meet Dandi's family because I don't really care for them.
Overall, such a good novella. Didn't really even feel like a novella because of how complete it was. Wrapped everything up well at the end, and lacked nothing.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest thoughts on this ARC read!
Winchester and Dandelion haven't seen each other in a decade, and Win just so happened to come across Dandi in her grandparents' bakery. From gnome puns to witty banters, we get to see how the two rehash their past and move forward. Now that they've been given a second chance at love, they won't want to mess things up.
Honestly, this was cute. At first, I was a bit iffy about the 10 years, but I realized that they had to work on themselves and grow up more, so I was okay with it in the end. With that said, I loved the character growth of the two, but especially with Win. He started out rough, and we witness him still struggling with that during the present time and then, we see him move forward from it. I think that was a beautiful addition to the story, and I appreciated that.
For the brother's best friend trope, I'm always in the look-out for a good book that has that, but a recurring problem is the FMC's brother. I get that it's probably realistic for a brother to react like that, but in this one, I just found it childish. We see the two main characters who have gone through character development, but for some reason the brother still hasn't grown up? He was a shitty brother and friend, and it took him 10 years and someone else saying it to his face for him to realize that.
Anyway, moving past that rant, I also think that the "it's always been you" trope was done so well in this ❤️ Even Win's mom and Nana believed the two belonged together, and I loved how supportive they were. I'm also glad we didn't get to meet Dandi's family because I don't really care for them.
Overall, such a good novella. Didn't really even feel like a novella because of how complete it was. Wrapped everything up well at the end, and lacked nothing.
Thank you to Luna Literary Management and the author for allowing me to share my honest thoughts on this ARC read!
November 14, 2024
This book warmed my heart, made me laugh and left me smiling. It does include some angst, but there are many funny moments too, as well as some rather passionate ones. I must admit that I enjoy some snarky banter and Win (Winchester) and Andi (Dandelion) certainly provide that. It has been ten years since the night they uttered words that hurt each other and changed the direction of their lives. In the years since they last saw each other, neither has forgotten the other or the dreams they once had for a future together. The bad boy has become a successful lawyer on the verge of taking charge of his grandmother’s law firm. The good girl has grown into an artist and entrepreneur, who unfortunately has been evicted from her workshop space. Fate, with the help of a snow storm, reunites the two former lovers. They end up in a fake relationship that will appease his grandmother and provide her with his pro bono services in a suit against her landlord. Close proximity and a shared bed give Win and Andi a chance to hash out the past, and reconnect on both an emotional and physical level. While their reunion brings them joy, it does not for at least one person they are both connected to….her brother who also happens to be Win’s best friend. Old fears, tumultuous emotions and insecurities have the power to rip them apart again. This time, at least one of them is willing to fight for their love.
Not love Andi and Win? Impossible! These two are meant to be together! They both made a mistake that they regretted immediately, but fear, insecurity and inexperience as well as the interference of others kept them from reaching out to the other to apologize and make amends. I loved Win and Andi’s rapport and soul-deep connection. They truly see and support each other. The significance of the gnome is something that I will let readers discover for themselves. I am sure it will make you sigh and smile like it did for me.
I highly recommend this fabulous book.
Not love Andi and Win? Impossible! These two are meant to be together! They both made a mistake that they regretted immediately, but fear, insecurity and inexperience as well as the interference of others kept them from reaching out to the other to apologize and make amends. I loved Win and Andi’s rapport and soul-deep connection. They truly see and support each other. The significance of the gnome is something that I will let readers discover for themselves. I am sure it will make you sigh and smile like it did for me.
I highly recommend this fabulous book.
November 19, 2024
Imagine being kicked out of your dream craft shop right before Christmas 😱—and then being forced to team up with the guy who crushed your heart into glittery shards a decade ago.
Yep, that’s Andi’s life right now, and she’s handling it like a total boss 💪... except for the part where her car breaks down in a snowstorm and she’s stranded with him.
Enter Winchester Robinson, the reformed bad boy turned heartthrob lawyer 🕴️, who's got his own holiday mess to clean up.
🛷 ❄️ Trapped together, fake-dating to please Nana (cue meddling grandma energy 💅), and navigating sparks flying faster than Christmas lights on Black Friday.
Why you need this book under your tree:
🎄 Second-Chance Romance: Andi and Win’s love story is a decade in the making, and let me tell you, the sparks fly like holiday fireworks.
❄️ Forced Proximity: Snowstorm + one bed? Say no more.
🎄 Fake Dating: Because what’s Christmas without pretending to be madly in love with your ex?
❄️ Brother’s Best Friend: The tension, the angst, the forbidden vibes—it’s everything.
🎄 Meddling Nana: Win’s Nana is the real MVP, adding humor, charm, and a nudge toward true love.
❄️ Creative Holiday Decor Uses: Trust me, you'll never look at tinsel the same way again.
If you love a grumpy/sunshine vibe (but reversed 👏), a bad boy who falls harder 💘, and witty back-and-forths that’ll have you giggling in your Santa hat, this novella will be your new cozy go-to.
Fav quotes? Oh, we’ve got ‘em:
💬 “There’s nothing I need more in this world than to call you mine.” 💬 “I’m sorry I wasted a decade not showing you how much I’ve always loved you.”
💬 “Who knew legal jargon could be this... effective?”
Grab a mug of something warm, settle in, and let “Gnome One Like You” whisk you away into all the holiday feels—spice, snark, and swoon included. ✨
🔗 Add this to your TBR and prepare to fall for Win and Andi faster than a snowflake on a winter breeze. 🎅
Do you gnome what I mean? 😉
Yep, that’s Andi’s life right now, and she’s handling it like a total boss 💪... except for the part where her car breaks down in a snowstorm and she’s stranded with him.
Enter Winchester Robinson, the reformed bad boy turned heartthrob lawyer 🕴️, who's got his own holiday mess to clean up.
🛷 ❄️ Trapped together, fake-dating to please Nana (cue meddling grandma energy 💅), and navigating sparks flying faster than Christmas lights on Black Friday.
Why you need this book under your tree:
🎄 Second-Chance Romance: Andi and Win’s love story is a decade in the making, and let me tell you, the sparks fly like holiday fireworks.
❄️ Forced Proximity: Snowstorm + one bed? Say no more.
🎄 Fake Dating: Because what’s Christmas without pretending to be madly in love with your ex?
❄️ Brother’s Best Friend: The tension, the angst, the forbidden vibes—it’s everything.
🎄 Meddling Nana: Win’s Nana is the real MVP, adding humor, charm, and a nudge toward true love.
❄️ Creative Holiday Decor Uses: Trust me, you'll never look at tinsel the same way again.
If you love a grumpy/sunshine vibe (but reversed 👏), a bad boy who falls harder 💘, and witty back-and-forths that’ll have you giggling in your Santa hat, this novella will be your new cozy go-to.
Fav quotes? Oh, we’ve got ‘em:
💬 “There’s nothing I need more in this world than to call you mine.” 💬 “I’m sorry I wasted a decade not showing you how much I’ve always loved you.”
💬 “Who knew legal jargon could be this... effective?”
Grab a mug of something warm, settle in, and let “Gnome One Like You” whisk you away into all the holiday feels—spice, snark, and swoon included. ✨
🔗 Add this to your TBR and prepare to fall for Win and Andi faster than a snowflake on a winter breeze. 🎅
Do you gnome what I mean? 😉
November 5, 2024
ARC Review of Gnome one Like You by Tobie Carter❄️🩵🎄⛄️🚗🤫🪵👨🏾⚖️🍄🍭🫖📚
This was the cutest novella to start getting ready for the holiday season!
This novella completely stole my heart! Getting to know Andi and Win was such a beautiful, emotional journey, I genuinely adored every second of it. Watching Andi break out of her shell, forgive herself, and find it within her to forgive Win for their tangled history was so powerful. And Win! His instant urge to protect Andi, to help her selflessly, was beyond sweet and completely melted me.
The way they gradually fall in love with each other, letting those feelings shine through more and more as the story unfolds, had me rooting for them with everything I had. It was so rewarding to see them finally embrace their love instead of holding it back.
This novella truly has it all, redemption, vulnerability, and a romance that left me swooning. It’s easily a 10/10, and I’d recommend it to anyone craving a heartfelt love story.
TROPES:
🎄Second-chance romance
❄️Forced proximity
🎄Fake Dating
❄️Brother’s Best Friend
🎄Only One Bed
❄️Meddling Nana
🎄Creative uses for holiday decorations
❄️Banter for days
🎄Dirty talking MMC
❄️Sneaking around in the pantry & basement
🩵My favorite quotes🩵
“I’m sorry that I let a decade pass when I could’ve spent that time showing you how much I love you. How much I’ve always loved you. I was a dumbass kid, and I’m apparently prone to still being a dumbass adult sometimes.”
“There’s nothing I need more in this world than to call you mine. To stop wasting another moment feeling like I don’t deserve the happiness you bring me. I need you in my life like I need my next breath.”
‼️Book coming out November 14th on Amazon, and I'm already so excited for everyone to read it and love it as much as I did‼️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5
@ReadingLaurasLibrary
#Happyreading
This was the cutest novella to start getting ready for the holiday season!
This novella completely stole my heart! Getting to know Andi and Win was such a beautiful, emotional journey, I genuinely adored every second of it. Watching Andi break out of her shell, forgive herself, and find it within her to forgive Win for their tangled history was so powerful. And Win! His instant urge to protect Andi, to help her selflessly, was beyond sweet and completely melted me.
The way they gradually fall in love with each other, letting those feelings shine through more and more as the story unfolds, had me rooting for them with everything I had. It was so rewarding to see them finally embrace their love instead of holding it back.
This novella truly has it all, redemption, vulnerability, and a romance that left me swooning. It’s easily a 10/10, and I’d recommend it to anyone craving a heartfelt love story.
TROPES:
🎄Second-chance romance
❄️Forced proximity
🎄Fake Dating
❄️Brother’s Best Friend
🎄Only One Bed
❄️Meddling Nana
🎄Creative uses for holiday decorations
❄️Banter for days
🎄Dirty talking MMC
❄️Sneaking around in the pantry & basement
🩵My favorite quotes🩵
“I’m sorry that I let a decade pass when I could’ve spent that time showing you how much I love you. How much I’ve always loved you. I was a dumbass kid, and I’m apparently prone to still being a dumbass adult sometimes.”
“There’s nothing I need more in this world than to call you mine. To stop wasting another moment feeling like I don’t deserve the happiness you bring me. I need you in my life like I need my next breath.”
‼️Book coming out November 14th on Amazon, and I'm already so excited for everyone to read it and love it as much as I did‼️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️/5
@ReadingLaurasLibrary
#Happyreading
October 21, 2024
I'd like to thank author Tobie Carter for giving me an arc of this book.
A cute, quick read to get you in the mood for the holiday season.
Dandelion (Andi) and Winchester (Win) have history. Quite a lot of history, actually. Andi and Win were together in high school, much to Andi's brother's (and Win's best friend) chagrin. But one fated evening the each one broke the other's heart, leading their lives into completely different directions for ten years.
Now, Andi is a woodworker with a rapidly growing Etsy shop, and Win is an attorney working at the family law firm. They haven't spoken in ten years, but, thanks to an unexpected blizzard and a detour, they're about to spend two fateful days together that will change their lives forever.
Things I loved about this book:
- Fake dating (my favorite trope!)
- Forced proximity
- Great chemistry between Andi and Win
- SNOW!
Things you may love (in addition to the above)
- Plenty of spice
I know it's spooky season and we're "supposed" to be reading horror, but I found Gnome One Like You to be a refreshing and fun read that may just snap me out of the reading slump I've been battling for months.
Andi and Win were in love ten years ago, but one night changed everything and drove them apart. Win went to juvie and Andi was sent to live with an aunt. Both thought they'd moved on from their teenage love, but the moment they're reunited you know there will be fireworks, and Carter does not disappoint.
If you're looking for a fun, spicy, holiday novella with heart, you can't go wrong with Gnome One Like You.
A cute, quick read to get you in the mood for the holiday season.
Dandelion (Andi) and Winchester (Win) have history. Quite a lot of history, actually. Andi and Win were together in high school, much to Andi's brother's (and Win's best friend) chagrin. But one fated evening the each one broke the other's heart, leading their lives into completely different directions for ten years.
Now, Andi is a woodworker with a rapidly growing Etsy shop, and Win is an attorney working at the family law firm. They haven't spoken in ten years, but, thanks to an unexpected blizzard and a detour, they're about to spend two fateful days together that will change their lives forever.
Things I loved about this book:
- Fake dating (my favorite trope!)
- Forced proximity
- Great chemistry between Andi and Win
- SNOW!
Things you may love (in addition to the above)
- Plenty of spice
I know it's spooky season and we're "supposed" to be reading horror, but I found Gnome One Like You to be a refreshing and fun read that may just snap me out of the reading slump I've been battling for months.
Andi and Win were in love ten years ago, but one night changed everything and drove them apart. Win went to juvie and Andi was sent to live with an aunt. Both thought they'd moved on from their teenage love, but the moment they're reunited you know there will be fireworks, and Carter does not disappoint.
If you're looking for a fun, spicy, holiday novella with heart, you can't go wrong with Gnome One Like You.
November 16, 2024
- Christmas romance
- Second chance
- Friends to lovers to enemies to lovers
- Brother's best friend
- Snowed in
- Banter
I am such a fan of second chance romances and this book also contained one of my new favorite tropes: Friends to lovers to enemies to lovers. The angst and tension was just so good!
While in high school, Win and his best friend's sister Andi had a secret romance. However, as teenagers do, Win said some things he regretted when confronted by his peers about his relationship with Andi. The fallout of those words nearly ruined his life and resulted in Andi being sent away by her parents.
Now, years later, Andi has returned home to help her grandmother run her bakery. Andi lost her lease on her workshop where she makes wooden gnomes. Unknown to her, Win has been collecting the gnomes her grandmother has been selling for her. Win also didn't realize that Andi was the artist.
Win's grandmother is a powerful attorney with her own firm. Win has been working there and is hoping to take over now that his grandmother is planning her retirement. However, his grandmother wants him to show stability with a family before taking over. So, when he realizes he can help Andi with the legal issues related to her workshop, he makes her an offer: pro bono work if she pretends to be his girlfriend..... Now Win has never gotten over Andi, but can he convince her to give him another chance as her real boyfriend?
This is steamy and witty and I flew through the pages!
- Second chance
- Friends to lovers to enemies to lovers
- Brother's best friend
- Snowed in
- Banter
I am such a fan of second chance romances and this book also contained one of my new favorite tropes: Friends to lovers to enemies to lovers. The angst and tension was just so good!
While in high school, Win and his best friend's sister Andi had a secret romance. However, as teenagers do, Win said some things he regretted when confronted by his peers about his relationship with Andi. The fallout of those words nearly ruined his life and resulted in Andi being sent away by her parents.
Now, years later, Andi has returned home to help her grandmother run her bakery. Andi lost her lease on her workshop where she makes wooden gnomes. Unknown to her, Win has been collecting the gnomes her grandmother has been selling for her. Win also didn't realize that Andi was the artist.
Win's grandmother is a powerful attorney with her own firm. Win has been working there and is hoping to take over now that his grandmother is planning her retirement. However, his grandmother wants him to show stability with a family before taking over. So, when he realizes he can help Andi with the legal issues related to her workshop, he makes her an offer: pro bono work if she pretends to be his girlfriend..... Now Win has never gotten over Andi, but can he convince her to give him another chance as her real boyfriend?
This is steamy and witty and I flew through the pages!
November 27, 2024
𝙄 𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙢𝙮 𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝𝙤𝙪𝙩 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙞𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙛𝙚 𝙖𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡.
When Andi is unceremoniously evicted from her workshop right before Christmas, she ends up on the hunt for a place to finish her holiday orders while trying to find a way to get her money back from her sleezy landlord. But when a freak snowstorm leaves her stranded, her salvation comes from the last person she expected – her brother’s best friend, and her first love. Win is on the hunt for a fake girlfriend to convince his Nana he’s serious and ready to become partner at their law office. But faking it is too easy when he shows up with the woman of his dreams on his arms. They strike a deal to help both of them get what they want, not realizing that they also might get what they need… closure from 10 years ago… and a second chance.
𝙏𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙝𝙞𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥, 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙘𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙯 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙗𝙬𝙚𝙗𝙨.
THIS. WAS. SO. CUTE. Win and Andi have the best banter and flirting – they’re supposed to hate each other based on their past, but there is nothing but stars in their eyes this entire novella. I’m not the biggest fan of second chance romance, but if all of them were written like this, I could definitely be swayed! This novella didn’t read like a novella, which I always love and appreciate! Such a great read for the holidays!
𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚.
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
When Andi is unceremoniously evicted from her workshop right before Christmas, she ends up on the hunt for a place to finish her holiday orders while trying to find a way to get her money back from her sleezy landlord. But when a freak snowstorm leaves her stranded, her salvation comes from the last person she expected – her brother’s best friend, and her first love. Win is on the hunt for a fake girlfriend to convince his Nana he’s serious and ready to become partner at their law office. But faking it is too easy when he shows up with the woman of his dreams on his arms. They strike a deal to help both of them get what they want, not realizing that they also might get what they need… closure from 10 years ago… and a second chance.
𝙏𝙚𝙣 𝙮𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙨 𝙙𝙞𝙙𝙣’𝙩 𝙚𝙧𝙖𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨. 𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙝𝙞𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙚𝙚𝙥, 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠 𝙘𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙢𝙮 𝙝𝙚𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙟𝙪𝙨𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙙𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙙 𝙬𝙖𝙡𝙩𝙯 𝙗𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙞𝙣 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙖 𝙛𝙡𝙖𝙨𝙝𝙡𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙖 𝙗𝙧𝙤𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙬𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙤𝙛𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙗𝙬𝙚𝙗𝙨.
THIS. WAS. SO. CUTE. Win and Andi have the best banter and flirting – they’re supposed to hate each other based on their past, but there is nothing but stars in their eyes this entire novella. I’m not the biggest fan of second chance romance, but if all of them were written like this, I could definitely be swayed! This novella didn’t read like a novella, which I always love and appreciate! Such a great read for the holidays!
𝙃𝙖𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙝𝙚𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙢𝙨 𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙄’𝙫𝙚 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙡𝙚𝙣 𝙖 𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙩𝙡𝙚 𝙥𝙞𝙚𝙘𝙚 𝙤𝙛 𝙃𝙚𝙖𝙫𝙚𝙣, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙜𝙤𝙤𝙙 𝙥𝙚𝙤𝙥𝙡𝙚 𝙜𝙚𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚.
4.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
November 14, 2024
Thank you to Tobie Carter and Luna Literary for sending me an early physical copy of this book.❤️
The name of the book really drew me in because I love gnomes. I absolutely loved Win and Andi’s story and they have quite the history together.
They hadn’t seen each other in 10 years after one terrible night that tore them apart and sent Win to juvie . Win is now a successful lawyer, trying to take over his grandmas practice, and Andi is a woodworker who has been evicted by her landlord but needs space to work with her ever growing Etsy shop.
After running into her at the bakery, a blizzard hits and Andi’s car won’t start. Win winds up having her stay at his mom’s house for the night, but his grandma unexpectedly turns up as well. The only way his grandma will retire, is if she sees that Win cares more about life than work and she wants to see him in a serious relationship.
Andi agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the night to make his grandma happy, in return for Win to take on her lawsuit against her landlord. As the story goes on, the two of them realize the attraction and love between them hasn’t left all these years. I think they needed that time apart to really grow and work on themselves and I’m glad they found their way back to each other.
I highly recommend this one if you enjoy the tropes below.
✨Fake Dating
✨Brothers Best Friend
✨Second Chance
✨One Bed
✨Meddling Grandma
✨Dual POV
The name of the book really drew me in because I love gnomes. I absolutely loved Win and Andi’s story and they have quite the history together.
They hadn’t seen each other in 10 years after one terrible night that tore them apart and sent Win to juvie . Win is now a successful lawyer, trying to take over his grandmas practice, and Andi is a woodworker who has been evicted by her landlord but needs space to work with her ever growing Etsy shop.
After running into her at the bakery, a blizzard hits and Andi’s car won’t start. Win winds up having her stay at his mom’s house for the night, but his grandma unexpectedly turns up as well. The only way his grandma will retire, is if she sees that Win cares more about life than work and she wants to see him in a serious relationship.
Andi agrees to be his fake girlfriend for the night to make his grandma happy, in return for Win to take on her lawsuit against her landlord. As the story goes on, the two of them realize the attraction and love between them hasn’t left all these years. I think they needed that time apart to really grow and work on themselves and I’m glad they found their way back to each other.
I highly recommend this one if you enjoy the tropes below.
✨Fake Dating
✨Brothers Best Friend
✨Second Chance
✨One Bed
✨Meddling Grandma
✨Dual POV
November 15, 2024
❄️ARC Review❄️
Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much, @tobiecarter.writer, for giving me the opportunity to read this!
I read Gnome One Like You in one sitting; I was that immersed in it! It was such an amazing read!
The main characters, Andi and Win, are just meant for each other. The banter between them is the best; the way they bounce off each other, trading jabs, had me squealing and laughing. And the gnome puns! They were so cheesy, but I loved them!
The tension between them was so obvious to everyone around them, but they couldn't see it and were insecure about the other's feelings at points. Some scenes between them were heartbreaking, especially when it came to their past together and as individuals. I teared up at points, but it didn't last long as they both helped each other see their good points. I loved how they saw each other for who they truly are.
Win supported Andi's dreams, and Andi, in turn, made him believe he was good enough. They're such likeable characters, and I was rooting for them to have a happy ending the entire time!
If you like:
🎄Fake Dating
🎁 Brother's Best Friend
🎄 Second Chance Romance
🎁 Only One Bed
🎄 Forced Proximity (Snowed In)
🎁 Meddling Nana
Then this is for you!
What are you waiting for? Go get it now!!
https://tr.ee/AYcYJABbXM
Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you so much, @tobiecarter.writer, for giving me the opportunity to read this!
I read Gnome One Like You in one sitting; I was that immersed in it! It was such an amazing read!
The main characters, Andi and Win, are just meant for each other. The banter between them is the best; the way they bounce off each other, trading jabs, had me squealing and laughing. And the gnome puns! They were so cheesy, but I loved them!
The tension between them was so obvious to everyone around them, but they couldn't see it and were insecure about the other's feelings at points. Some scenes between them were heartbreaking, especially when it came to their past together and as individuals. I teared up at points, but it didn't last long as they both helped each other see their good points. I loved how they saw each other for who they truly are.
Win supported Andi's dreams, and Andi, in turn, made him believe he was good enough. They're such likeable characters, and I was rooting for them to have a happy ending the entire time!
If you like:
🎄Fake Dating
🎁 Brother's Best Friend
🎄 Second Chance Romance
🎁 Only One Bed
🎄 Forced Proximity (Snowed In)
🎁 Meddling Nana
Then this is for you!
What are you waiting for? Go get it now!!
https://tr.ee/AYcYJABbXM
November 15, 2024
𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Gnome One Like You was was such a cute holiday second chance romance Novella but do not let this cartoon cover fool you because the spice was spicing🥵. The banter between these two was top tier and they act like they hate each other but they have loved each other for the past 10 years ❤️
This was my first book by Tobie but it will not be my last one because I loved every single second of this book. It may have been short but it was not lacking any of the emotions from laughter, kicking my feet in glee, crying, throwing my kindle down, and wanting to hit Win upside the head to knock some sense into him.
Both Win and Andi were down bad for each other and would do just about anything for each other including being in a fake relationship. What went from a snow storm closing roads to a fake relationship and then a real relationship was bitter sweet and perfect. I loved how the Gnomes were incorporated into this story and how specifically one represents their relationship❤️ I fell hard for Win from page one, he was hurting and felt like he wasn’t good enough for Andi while Andi felt like she would never find someone better for herself❤️
*please check TW*
Thank you Tobie and Luna Literary for an ARC of this book! It was everything I could have hoped for!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Gnome One Like You was was such a cute holiday second chance romance Novella but do not let this cartoon cover fool you because the spice was spicing🥵. The banter between these two was top tier and they act like they hate each other but they have loved each other for the past 10 years ❤️
This was my first book by Tobie but it will not be my last one because I loved every single second of this book. It may have been short but it was not lacking any of the emotions from laughter, kicking my feet in glee, crying, throwing my kindle down, and wanting to hit Win upside the head to knock some sense into him.
Both Win and Andi were down bad for each other and would do just about anything for each other including being in a fake relationship. What went from a snow storm closing roads to a fake relationship and then a real relationship was bitter sweet and perfect. I loved how the Gnomes were incorporated into this story and how specifically one represents their relationship❤️ I fell hard for Win from page one, he was hurting and felt like he wasn’t good enough for Andi while Andi felt like she would never find someone better for herself❤️
*please check TW*
Thank you Tobie and Luna Literary for an ARC of this book! It was everything I could have hoped for!
November 17, 2024
Review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
If you’re a sucker for a holiday romance packed with second chances and fake dating, [Title] delivers in all the right ways!
Andi Johnson and Winchester Robinson are the perfect blend of opposites—her ambitious and creative nature colliding with his reformed bad-boy-turned-cutthroat-lawyer persona. The stakes are high for both characters: Andi, evicted from her craft shop, is fighting to rebuild her life, while Win is trying to prove his worth to his family’s legacy. Their paths cross in the middle of a snowstorm, reigniting the tension (and unspoken feelings) from their past.
The forced proximity and fake-dating trope give this story its heart. Watching Win beg Andi to play his girlfriend to appease his Nana’s concerns was both charming and hilarious, while the chemistry between them kept me hooked. Both characters are weighed down by their insecurities—Andi by her protective brother’s judgment and Win by his feelings of unworthiness—but their time together over the holidays forces them to confront their fears and rediscover what truly matters.
The warmth of family, the cozy holiday vibes, and the rekindling of a once-broken connection made this book a joy to read. While a few plot points felt predictable, the emotional depth and festive charm more than made up for it.
If you’re a sucker for a holiday romance packed with second chances and fake dating, [Title] delivers in all the right ways!
Andi Johnson and Winchester Robinson are the perfect blend of opposites—her ambitious and creative nature colliding with his reformed bad-boy-turned-cutthroat-lawyer persona. The stakes are high for both characters: Andi, evicted from her craft shop, is fighting to rebuild her life, while Win is trying to prove his worth to his family’s legacy. Their paths cross in the middle of a snowstorm, reigniting the tension (and unspoken feelings) from their past.
The forced proximity and fake-dating trope give this story its heart. Watching Win beg Andi to play his girlfriend to appease his Nana’s concerns was both charming and hilarious, while the chemistry between them kept me hooked. Both characters are weighed down by their insecurities—Andi by her protective brother’s judgment and Win by his feelings of unworthiness—but their time together over the holidays forces them to confront their fears and rediscover what truly matters.
The warmth of family, the cozy holiday vibes, and the rekindling of a once-broken connection made this book a joy to read. While a few plot points felt predictable, the emotional depth and festive charm more than made up for it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2024
*** ARC REVIEW ***
Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
Out now & free on Kindle Unlimited!
Read if you like:
Holiday Novella
Open Door Spice
Brother's Best Friend
Second Chance
Forced Proximity
Fake Dating
One Bed
Lawyer x Woodworker
Gnome Puns
Win and Andi had a secret relationship in high school behind her brother's back. It ended in dramatic flames. Andi was sent away, and there's been a rift ever since. Ten years later, she's back in town looking for a new place to live and work. Win runs into her at her grandmother's bakery, they get right back into their old bickering ways. When some things happen, they craft an agreement beneficial to both parties: Andi will pretend to be dating Win to help him get a promotion and Win will help Andi with some legal trouble.
But a snow storm, forced proximity, and one bed on top of fake dating will lead to big feelings and temptation. Will Andi risk her heart (again), and will Win risk his friendship with her brother (...again?)
There was good banter and spice. It's short since it's a novella, and there was a lot of plot to fit in, but it did a good job of it.
4⭐ 2.5🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest opinions. Thank you to Luna Literary Management and author Tobie Carter for the eARC!
Gnome One Like You by Tobie Carter
Out now & free on Kindle Unlimited!
Read if you like:
Holiday Novella
Open Door Spice
Brother's Best Friend
Second Chance
Forced Proximity
Fake Dating
One Bed
Lawyer x Woodworker
Gnome Puns
Win and Andi had a secret relationship in high school behind her brother's back. It ended in dramatic flames. Andi was sent away, and there's been a rift ever since. Ten years later, she's back in town looking for a new place to live and work. Win runs into her at her grandmother's bakery, they get right back into their old bickering ways. When some things happen, they craft an agreement beneficial to both parties: Andi will pretend to be dating Win to help him get a promotion and Win will help Andi with some legal trouble.
But a snow storm, forced proximity, and one bed on top of fake dating will lead to big feelings and temptation. Will Andi risk her heart (again), and will Win risk his friendship with her brother (...again?)
There was good banter and spice. It's short since it's a novella, and there was a lot of plot to fit in, but it did a good job of it.
4⭐ 2.5🌶️
I read an advanced copy of this book, and these are my honest opinions. Thank you to Luna Literary Management and author Tobie Carter for the eARC!
December 30, 2024
This was suuuch a cute (and hot) novella!
I’ve read a handful of novellas this month just because it seems like a lot of Christmas books are and I wanted to read Christmas. I’ve said this a few times but I’m not usually very into novellas as I really prefer depth.
However, I felt like this author really wrote a novella well! It had just enough depth and heat and I really appreciated how the settings where the storyline took place were compact. It led to a really tightly written, high impact story.
Win and Andi are just perfect together and I enjoyed their journey. Second chance romances are a new love of mine and this fit in perfectly. There was that touch of angst about how they treated each other in the past combined with the hot fire of seeing each other again. The writing was emotive and heartfelt. I just fell in love with both of them. Really felt for Win and the doubt he has about himself and I loved how Andi calls him on his sh-t. I also really enjoyed how family was involved and the clear bonds between them all.
And the gnomes! Omg such a cute touch to the story 🥹
Definitely recommend this one if you want a quick read, warm fuzzies, spicy, Christmas romance read!
4/5 ⭐️
I’ve read a handful of novellas this month just because it seems like a lot of Christmas books are and I wanted to read Christmas. I’ve said this a few times but I’m not usually very into novellas as I really prefer depth.
However, I felt like this author really wrote a novella well! It had just enough depth and heat and I really appreciated how the settings where the storyline took place were compact. It led to a really tightly written, high impact story.
Win and Andi are just perfect together and I enjoyed their journey. Second chance romances are a new love of mine and this fit in perfectly. There was that touch of angst about how they treated each other in the past combined with the hot fire of seeing each other again. The writing was emotive and heartfelt. I just fell in love with both of them. Really felt for Win and the doubt he has about himself and I loved how Andi calls him on his sh-t. I also really enjoyed how family was involved and the clear bonds between them all.
And the gnomes! Omg such a cute touch to the story 🥹
Definitely recommend this one if you want a quick read, warm fuzzies, spicy, Christmas romance read!
4/5 ⭐️
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