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A Curvy Carol
Everyone knows that if you want to have an incredible Christmas season, you go to Garland, Maine, where the entire town joins in on celebrating Christmas.
Well, everyone except me.
Every year since my parents’ divorce, they’ve fought to make Christmas at their place the best. Shuffling back and forth between the two and running ragged with all the activities has ruined the holidays every year.
So this year, I finally tell them both I’m done celebrating Christmas. And they agree on one I have to show the new guy in town the best Garland has to offer this year.
I thought it would be a tedious set of tasks to show him around, but for the first time I’m having fun during the holidays. Even better? I think he likes me too.
That is until I learn our arrangement wasn’t just a way for me to get out of the Christmas Olympics with my parents. There was something in it for him too.
And at the end of it all, I have to wonder… Was any of it real for him, or would I have been better off celebrating with my parents after all?
Well, everyone except me.
Every year since my parents’ divorce, they’ve fought to make Christmas at their place the best. Shuffling back and forth between the two and running ragged with all the activities has ruined the holidays every year.
So this year, I finally tell them both I’m done celebrating Christmas. And they agree on one I have to show the new guy in town the best Garland has to offer this year.
I thought it would be a tedious set of tasks to show him around, but for the first time I’m having fun during the holidays. Even better? I think he likes me too.
That is until I learn our arrangement wasn’t just a way for me to get out of the Christmas Olympics with my parents. There was something in it for him too.
And at the end of it all, I have to wonder… Was any of it real for him, or would I have been better off celebrating with my parents after all?
192 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 8, 2024
18 people are currently reading
426 people want to read
About the author
Kelsie Stelting
48 books1,736 followersKelsie Stelting is a body positive romance author who writes love stories with strong characters, deep feelings, and happy endings.
She currently lives in Colorado. You can often find her writing, spending time with family, and soaking up too much sun wherever she can find it.
Visit www.kelsiestelting.com to get a free story and sign up for her readers' group!
She currently lives in Colorado. You can often find her writing, spending time with family, and soaking up too much sun wherever she can find it.
Visit www.kelsiestelting.com to get a free story and sign up for her readers' group!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 5, 2024
A curvy Carol
-love a bucket list
-love an adventure
-relate so much when it’s comes to having divorced parents
-this series was so cute, fuzzy, heartwarming
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
-love a bucket list
-love an adventure
-relate so much when it’s comes to having divorced parents
-this series was so cute, fuzzy, heartwarming
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 28, 2024
This is another installment in the A Curvy Girl Christmas Series by Kelsie Stelting and it does not disappoint. She brings us back to Garland, Maine, the wonderful town that is filled with the Christmas spirit. Carol, however, does not have any Christmas spirit. Since her parents’ divorce, she hates Christmas. Each parent tries to outdo the other, and that’s what it has become for her. This year, she doesn’t want to partake in that, so she makes an agreement with her parents to hang out with the new kid in town and show him around instead. But when she makes a discovery, she wonders if the time spent together, and her feelings, were real at all?
This was another heartwarming YA Christmas romance that left me with a smile on my face. As with the first book, the setting is absolutely amazing and I hate that Garland is a made up place. I really want to find some place like it and visit there at Christmastime!
It’s a perfect read for teenagers. The dialogue felt right, the activities felt right. I wish I had an experience like this when I was a teenager. I also really appreciated the small moment between Carol and her mother when talking about Whit and then Carol’s dad.
YA Christmas romance readers, get this book on your TBR list now! It comes out on November 8, 2024!
This was another heartwarming YA Christmas romance that left me with a smile on my face. As with the first book, the setting is absolutely amazing and I hate that Garland is a made up place. I really want to find some place like it and visit there at Christmastime!
It’s a perfect read for teenagers. The dialogue felt right, the activities felt right. I wish I had an experience like this when I was a teenager. I also really appreciated the small moment between Carol and her mother when talking about Whit and then Carol’s dad.
YA Christmas romance readers, get this book on your TBR list now! It comes out on November 8, 2024!
October 25, 2024
Curvy Girl Christmas is a YA series of novellas, each a sweet Christmas romance based in Garland, Maine. If you're a fan of Hallmark's holidays movies, these are right up your alley.
Caroline is exhausted being forced to celebrate Christmas as a competition between her parents. Putting her foot down, she refuses to celebrate with either parent, opting for a more laid back Christmas. Her parents agree on one condition, she must show the new kid around town and familiarize him with the town.
Whit is new to Garland and missing his old friends desperately. When his parents pair him up with Caroline so that he doesn't spend days alone, Whit is hesitant. After seeing her though, he's intrigued.
These two spend the days leading up to Christmas getting to know one another and falling for each other. If you enjoy some forced proximity, a black cat/golden retriever couple, and some groveling and grand gestures, this Christmas YA romance is for you.
Caroline is exhausted being forced to celebrate Christmas as a competition between her parents. Putting her foot down, she refuses to celebrate with either parent, opting for a more laid back Christmas. Her parents agree on one condition, she must show the new kid around town and familiarize him with the town.
Whit is new to Garland and missing his old friends desperately. When his parents pair him up with Caroline so that he doesn't spend days alone, Whit is hesitant. After seeing her though, he's intrigued.
These two spend the days leading up to Christmas getting to know one another and falling for each other. If you enjoy some forced proximity, a black cat/golden retriever couple, and some groveling and grand gestures, this Christmas YA romance is for you.
October 22, 2024
Something to know about me is I am a Hallmark Christmas movie gal to the extreme, so to read not one but three stories with those kind of vibes that features a curvy girl; I am freaking obsessed! Garland, Maine is a place of my dreams. As you can imagine, everything is Christmas themed from Mistletoe Hill to Cider Center, Scrooge’s Diner, Cocoa Corner, Jingles, The Nutcracker shop and Fall La La La La skating rink. These books were the perfect Christmas magic happily ever after’s. I love that Kelsie writes about plus sized girls who get the cute guys. Thank you, Kelsie, for writing such uplifting, body positivity books. ❤️
𝗔 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝘃𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹 features Whit, a guy who is brand new to Garland and Carolynn, who is somewhat of a Scrooge in her own right but is tasked with showing Whit around to see what Garland is all about. She shows him the magic the town holds all while rekindling her own Christmas Spirit.
𝗔 𝗖𝘂𝗿𝘃𝘆 𝗖𝗮𝗿𝗼𝗹 features Whit, a guy who is brand new to Garland and Carolynn, who is somewhat of a Scrooge in her own right but is tasked with showing Whit around to see what Garland is all about. She shows him the magic the town holds all while rekindling her own Christmas Spirit.
November 9, 2024
Looking to get in the holiday spirit AND add a fun quick read to help reach your goodreads goal? Grab this book right away!
Are you ready to get in the Christmas spirit? We’ll grab a cup of hot chocolate, a few Christmas cookies, flick on the Christmas lights and grab Kelsie Stelting’s new book(s), A Curvy Girl Christmas! These books are so good. They are short and sweet but do not lack the depth and feelings. As always, Kelsie writes in such a body positive way, making you feel good about yourself and the characters too. I read these so quick and was left feeling happy afterwards. Kelsie came up with new ways to draw you in, and keep you smiling the whole entire book!
This specific book brought some tears to my eyes and really tugged on the heart strings. As always, Kelsie brings everything full circle and ends with the happiest of endings! Or should I say the jolliest of endings! 😉
Are you ready to get in the Christmas spirit? We’ll grab a cup of hot chocolate, a few Christmas cookies, flick on the Christmas lights and grab Kelsie Stelting’s new book(s), A Curvy Girl Christmas! These books are so good. They are short and sweet but do not lack the depth and feelings. As always, Kelsie writes in such a body positive way, making you feel good about yourself and the characters too. I read these so quick and was left feeling happy afterwards. Kelsie came up with new ways to draw you in, and keep you smiling the whole entire book!
This specific book brought some tears to my eyes and really tugged on the heart strings. As always, Kelsie brings everything full circle and ends with the happiest of endings! Or should I say the jolliest of endings! 😉
November 9, 2024
Absolutely adored this trilogy of little novellas. Kelsie has a way of telling the most beautiful heartfelt stories. They sucked me right in. These are perfect palate cleansers for this season. No spice, these are YA and I couldn’t stop reading these. Hallmark vibes, body positivity, loving yourself while finding your HEA. Guaranteed to give your heart a squeeze! Totally recommend it!! Curvy girls rule!
November 14, 2025
This was such a cute Christmas read. I loved following Carolynn and Whit in this story as they got to know each other while completing Christmas activities on their list. I love the small town setting of Garland, Maine. This was a sweet, heartwarming story that left me smiling and I can’t wait to read the next novella in this series.
November 20, 2024
Loved this story. It gave all the small town hallmark vibes. Definitely a light, fun Christmas read! 🎄
December 17, 2024
That was sweet! Even though the setting of a Christmas obsessed town wasn’t something I could relate to, the relationship was entirely relatable. I love how it was a grumpy x sunshine where she hates Christmas and he’s a golden retriever type guy. It really was just so sweet!
My favourite of the three ❤️
My favourite of the three ❤️
December 30, 2024
Loved Loved this one! I read this so fast and could not get enough. The moment I put it down I wanted to read it again. As a plus size girl, I had the same thoughts that followed the FMC in this book. These two were so sweet and felt there relationship developing even though this was a short book. Highly recommend this one.
December 13, 2024
📚BOOK REVIEW 📚
⭐️Goodread Rating: 4.2/5⭐️
💫My Rating: 4/5 💫
⚠️Trigger Warnings ⚠️
Grief, Signs of Anxiety, Signs of Depression, Family Dynamics, Divorce
📝My Review📝
As we near Christmas, there is nothing better than snuggling up in your favorite blanket with that favorite warm drink (coffee😍), a book in hand, and maybe a warm fuzzy four-legged companion sitting with you by the Christmas tree. My favorite type of book to read during this time of year is holiday romance. I want the latest “hallmark book” each season to really soak in the holiday cheer. If you have the same tradition or perhaps want to join in on the tradition, I have the perfect book series! The Curvy Girl Series’ holiday editions are out now, and they are a MUST read for the holidays!
This series, written by Kelsie Stelting, is the perfect book for YA Readers who are looking for high school romance with little spice. This series is body positive, clean, cutesy romantic, and fun! The new holiday editions continue these attributes as they lead you on a journey in a festive town called Garland and follow three plus size heroines in their journey of self confidence, love, and holiday fun. While these books are intertwined with each other in characters, time, and place. They can be read as a stand alone. I will be writing reviews for all three The Curvy Girl holiday editions. You will find below my review for one of the three books called A Curvy Carol. This novel is full of sweet and fun love in a small town holiday setting with a HEA!
A Curvy Carol Review
It’s the season that everyone has been looking forward to in the small town of Garland, well almost everyone. For years the holiday season has been filled with the town’s festive traditions, joyful spirit, and cozy aesthetic. Locals and annual visitors come together to develop new memories and experience the nostalgia from years prior.
However, for Carolynn, this only lasted for a few years of her life. Since her parents’ divorce, the holiday essence has been forced upon her by her parents, who pretend that nothing had changed during the Christmas season. Plus, the town’s obsession with Christmas only encourages this facade in her family more. This year she expected nothing less. In all honesty, she would rather skip the holiday activities and charm. One day, Carolynn took the leap and laid it all out on the table. Thinking she could persuade her parents, she is blindsided by a bargain. Her father accepted her decision to not participate in the holiday adventures with them, but she had to agree to be the town's holiday tour guide for a new boy who just moved to Garland. Thinking that this was the lesser of two evils and that she might be able to get out of it after talking to boy, Carolynn decided to accept her father's bargain.
After the agreement was reached, Carolynn quickly discovered that this bargain may have gotten a bit more interesting when a small detail was discovered. The boy she would be sharing the holiday season with was picture perfect and charming.
Will this holiday be different and bring the joy of the season back to Carolynn? Can Carolynn open her heart and allow this handsome stranger in?
As the a reader of A Curvy Carol, you are immersed into a world with cheesy Christmas references that makes your heart warm and your body chuckle. Kelsie has captivated readers through these punny references that only enhance your holiday cheer as you read. I found myself envisioning a hallmark movie with a mix of “Gilmore girls” flare and young contemporary romance. I really enjoyed the banter and fun loving spirit that the MMC brought to the story. While I did predict part of the book, it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. What I really enjoyed and appreciated was the friendship between the MFC and MMC. It had an innocent and young connection that I had only dreamt about at that age. The activies, language, emotions, and reactions felt age appropriate and realistic. Honestly I wish I could have had some of the holiday experiences that they did when I was younger. Actually, I still want to do many of them in my adult age! 🤣
So go get your favorite hot drink, warmest blanket, and A Curvy Carol to make your holiday season even better!
🤍Thanks to Kelsie Stelting for trusting me with their novel in return for my personal review
⭐️Goodread Rating: 4.2/5⭐️
💫My Rating: 4/5 💫
⚠️Trigger Warnings ⚠️
Grief, Signs of Anxiety, Signs of Depression, Family Dynamics, Divorce
📝My Review📝
As we near Christmas, there is nothing better than snuggling up in your favorite blanket with that favorite warm drink (coffee😍), a book in hand, and maybe a warm fuzzy four-legged companion sitting with you by the Christmas tree. My favorite type of book to read during this time of year is holiday romance. I want the latest “hallmark book” each season to really soak in the holiday cheer. If you have the same tradition or perhaps want to join in on the tradition, I have the perfect book series! The Curvy Girl Series’ holiday editions are out now, and they are a MUST read for the holidays!
This series, written by Kelsie Stelting, is the perfect book for YA Readers who are looking for high school romance with little spice. This series is body positive, clean, cutesy romantic, and fun! The new holiday editions continue these attributes as they lead you on a journey in a festive town called Garland and follow three plus size heroines in their journey of self confidence, love, and holiday fun. While these books are intertwined with each other in characters, time, and place. They can be read as a stand alone. I will be writing reviews for all three The Curvy Girl holiday editions. You will find below my review for one of the three books called A Curvy Carol. This novel is full of sweet and fun love in a small town holiday setting with a HEA!
A Curvy Carol Review
It’s the season that everyone has been looking forward to in the small town of Garland, well almost everyone. For years the holiday season has been filled with the town’s festive traditions, joyful spirit, and cozy aesthetic. Locals and annual visitors come together to develop new memories and experience the nostalgia from years prior.
However, for Carolynn, this only lasted for a few years of her life. Since her parents’ divorce, the holiday essence has been forced upon her by her parents, who pretend that nothing had changed during the Christmas season. Plus, the town’s obsession with Christmas only encourages this facade in her family more. This year she expected nothing less. In all honesty, she would rather skip the holiday activities and charm. One day, Carolynn took the leap and laid it all out on the table. Thinking she could persuade her parents, she is blindsided by a bargain. Her father accepted her decision to not participate in the holiday adventures with them, but she had to agree to be the town's holiday tour guide for a new boy who just moved to Garland. Thinking that this was the lesser of two evils and that she might be able to get out of it after talking to boy, Carolynn decided to accept her father's bargain.
After the agreement was reached, Carolynn quickly discovered that this bargain may have gotten a bit more interesting when a small detail was discovered. The boy she would be sharing the holiday season with was picture perfect and charming.
Will this holiday be different and bring the joy of the season back to Carolynn? Can Carolynn open her heart and allow this handsome stranger in?
As the a reader of A Curvy Carol, you are immersed into a world with cheesy Christmas references that makes your heart warm and your body chuckle. Kelsie has captivated readers through these punny references that only enhance your holiday cheer as you read. I found myself envisioning a hallmark movie with a mix of “Gilmore girls” flare and young contemporary romance. I really enjoyed the banter and fun loving spirit that the MMC brought to the story. While I did predict part of the book, it did not take away from my enjoyment of the story. What I really enjoyed and appreciated was the friendship between the MFC and MMC. It had an innocent and young connection that I had only dreamt about at that age. The activies, language, emotions, and reactions felt age appropriate and realistic. Honestly I wish I could have had some of the holiday experiences that they did when I was younger. Actually, I still want to do many of them in my adult age! 🤣
So go get your favorite hot drink, warmest blanket, and A Curvy Carol to make your holiday season even better!
🤍Thanks to Kelsie Stelting for trusting me with their novel in return for my personal review
October 8, 2025
Disclaimer: I received this e-book from the author. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: A Curvy Carol
Author: Kelsie Stelting
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Curvy Plus-Size FMC
Recommended For...: Young Adult readers, Christmas book, Contemporary, Romance, Forced Proximity, Holiday
Publication Date: November 8, 2024
Genre: YA Christmas Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 13+ (divorced parents, romance)
Explanation of CWs: The FMC has divorced parents and dealing with the divorce and separate households is a plot point. There is some romance.
If This Was a Taylor Swift Song: Enchanted
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 192
Synopsis: Everyone knows that if you want to have an incredible Christmas season, you go to Garland, Maine, where the entire town joins in on celebrating Christmas. Well, everyone except me. Every year since my parents’ divorce, they’ve fought to make Christmas at their place the best. Shuffling back and forth between the two and running ragged with all the activities has ruined the holidays every year. So this year, I finally tell them both I’m done celebrating Christmas. And they agree on one I have to show the new guy in town the best Garland has to offer this year. I thought it would be a tedious set of tasks to show him around, but for the first time I’m having fun during the holidays. Even better? I think he likes me too. That is until I learn our arrangement wasn’t just a way for me to get out of the Christmas Olympics with my parents. There was something in it for him too. And at the end of it all, I have to wonder… Was any of it real for him, or would I have been better off celebrating with my parents after all?
Review: I thought that this was a sweet little Christmas romance novella. I like that the female main character was the grumpy of the grumpy Sunshine trope and I really was invested in her backstory a lot, that her parents are divorced and Christmas is always a pretty hard time on her. Because of that. I thought that the romance between her and the male main character was very sweet and it's just a pretty little perfect novella for young adults and teens. I also enjoyed more of the world building of this town.
However, I did feel like some of the character development on the male main character was a bit lacking. I also feel like the female main character forgave her father a little too easily for the issue at hand.
Verdict: It was a sweet little Christmas book. Highly recommend!
Book: A Curvy Carol
Author: Kelsie Stelting
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Diversity: Curvy Plus-Size FMC
Recommended For...: Young Adult readers, Christmas book, Contemporary, Romance, Forced Proximity, Holiday
Publication Date: November 8, 2024
Genre: YA Christmas Contemporary Romance
Age Relevance: 13+ (divorced parents, romance)
Explanation of CWs: The FMC has divorced parents and dealing with the divorce and separate households is a plot point. There is some romance.
If This Was a Taylor Swift Song: Enchanted
Publisher: Indie Published
Pages: 192
Synopsis: Everyone knows that if you want to have an incredible Christmas season, you go to Garland, Maine, where the entire town joins in on celebrating Christmas. Well, everyone except me. Every year since my parents’ divorce, they’ve fought to make Christmas at their place the best. Shuffling back and forth between the two and running ragged with all the activities has ruined the holidays every year. So this year, I finally tell them both I’m done celebrating Christmas. And they agree on one I have to show the new guy in town the best Garland has to offer this year. I thought it would be a tedious set of tasks to show him around, but for the first time I’m having fun during the holidays. Even better? I think he likes me too. That is until I learn our arrangement wasn’t just a way for me to get out of the Christmas Olympics with my parents. There was something in it for him too. And at the end of it all, I have to wonder… Was any of it real for him, or would I have been better off celebrating with my parents after all?
Review: I thought that this was a sweet little Christmas romance novella. I like that the female main character was the grumpy of the grumpy Sunshine trope and I really was invested in her backstory a lot, that her parents are divorced and Christmas is always a pretty hard time on her. Because of that. I thought that the romance between her and the male main character was very sweet and it's just a pretty little perfect novella for young adults and teens. I also enjoyed more of the world building of this town.
However, I did feel like some of the character development on the male main character was a bit lacking. I also feel like the female main character forgave her father a little too easily for the issue at hand.
Verdict: It was a sweet little Christmas book. Highly recommend!
December 26, 2025
Ok this was favorite of the 3 I got in my special edition signed book package from this author! I enjoyed this concept and was happy to see such an introvert nerd meet a guy who was also one in some respects. I loved he wanted to make friends so badly but he fell so hard for her, it was incredibly adorable.
We get Carolynn who is more of a scrooge in the beginning because her parents have pretty much ruined Christmas with their divorce and trying to one-up each other/do all the holiday things in a short window. I was happy she stood up for herself and had the bravery to tell them what she needed. I wanted to throttle her dad though with his scheme he came up with. What a bad way that blew up in his face. I liked the idea that she had to help with the new guy in town to experience christmas but it was on her terms, so she could enjoy it. Whit was a hoot and again so enamored with her, and having someone he would spend time with and they vibed so well was perfect. I loved her crafting by the way, so fabulous.
I also want to visit a town like Garland, all these places sounded amazing and kept the storyline so interesting because you didnt know what was going to happen next and it was with all the holiday spirit. From being kicked out haha to the snowman competition, to the ornaments and presents. So many wonderful things. I almost read this in one sitting, was engrossed for awhile which I have to give it 5 stars for. I normally don't read YA but this was so cute I might try to read it annually to help get me back in the spirit.
Thought the ending was cute, how Whit tried to apologize and win Christmas Carol's favor back haha. And I laughed a lot in this one too, especially when the Carolers came by and Whit made her come out hahaha. Great story, I wish we could get some epilogue of these couples and see how things went with college and if any came back and ended up staying together. I could these this couple doing that with how much the worked well and had chemistry.
We get Carolynn who is more of a scrooge in the beginning because her parents have pretty much ruined Christmas with their divorce and trying to one-up each other/do all the holiday things in a short window. I was happy she stood up for herself and had the bravery to tell them what she needed. I wanted to throttle her dad though with his scheme he came up with. What a bad way that blew up in his face. I liked the idea that she had to help with the new guy in town to experience christmas but it was on her terms, so she could enjoy it. Whit was a hoot and again so enamored with her, and having someone he would spend time with and they vibed so well was perfect. I loved her crafting by the way, so fabulous.
I also want to visit a town like Garland, all these places sounded amazing and kept the storyline so interesting because you didnt know what was going to happen next and it was with all the holiday spirit. From being kicked out haha to the snowman competition, to the ornaments and presents. So many wonderful things. I almost read this in one sitting, was engrossed for awhile which I have to give it 5 stars for. I normally don't read YA but this was so cute I might try to read it annually to help get me back in the spirit.
Thought the ending was cute, how Whit tried to apologize and win Christmas Carol's favor back haha. And I laughed a lot in this one too, especially when the Carolers came by and Whit made her come out hahaha. Great story, I wish we could get some epilogue of these couples and see how things went with college and if any came back and ended up staying together. I could these this couple doing that with how much the worked well and had chemistry.
Read
November 10, 2024Dual pov
Sweet clean YA Christmas romance
Plus size fmc
Forced Proximity
Small town obsessed with the holiday
Divorced parents
Doing all the town's thematic activities together
New lonely boy in town x Embroidery groucho
Reverse sunshine/grumpy
Low stakes
HEA
The books follow a group of 5 friends: Belle, Carolynn, Bethany, Holly, and Sera. Unfortunately, we only see them together briefly at the beginning.
The Christmas-oriented town is quirky, containing its own Christmas-hating Scrooge à les Gilmore Girls' Luke. Honestly, I'm more curious about his sad backstory than anything else.
This is a wholesome and lighthearted read for fans of Hallmark holiday romance films. It is quick to go through for an easy feel-good time, the characters not containing many layers. Equally good for palette cleansing. But it's also full of low-key teen dramatics that may not be everyone's cup of tea* 🤣
I didn't like Carolynn's reaction or accusation that Whit lied. She wasn't footing any bills during their activities, is it so difficult to imagine that her working father could pay an unemployed teen boy for some of the expenses? Or is the sexist idea that a male should pay "just because" despite circumstances still operating? They're both unemployed teens, she wasn't even keen on giving him a town tour in the beginning, and tried to half-ass or escape some activities. He was the one into everything, making an effort. There was no maliciousness intended from any involved parties. If anything, the blurb's proclaimed body positivity is actually full of insecurity. She, just like Belle, keeps going on about which girls a boy prefers yadda yadda. I thought I'd be seeing some go-getters and confident queens!
It has a third act breakup which I'm not a fan of.
*Thanks to her insecurities, not his behaviour
Sweet clean YA Christmas romance
Plus size fmc
Forced Proximity
Small town obsessed with the holiday
Divorced parents
Doing all the town's thematic activities together
New lonely boy in town x Embroidery groucho
Reverse sunshine/grumpy
Low stakes
HEA
The books follow a group of 5 friends: Belle, Carolynn, Bethany, Holly, and Sera. Unfortunately, we only see them together briefly at the beginning.
The Christmas-oriented town is quirky, containing its own Christmas-hating Scrooge à les Gilmore Girls' Luke. Honestly, I'm more curious about his sad backstory than anything else.
This is a wholesome and lighthearted read for fans of Hallmark holiday romance films. It is quick to go through for an easy feel-good time, the characters not containing many layers. Equally good for palette cleansing. But it's also full of low-key teen dramatics that may not be everyone's cup of tea* 🤣
I didn't like Carolynn's reaction or accusation that Whit lied. She wasn't footing any bills during their activities, is it so difficult to imagine that her working father could pay an unemployed teen boy for some of the expenses? Or is the sexist idea that a male should pay "just because" despite circumstances still operating? They're both unemployed teens, she wasn't even keen on giving him a town tour in the beginning, and tried to half-ass or escape some activities. He was the one into everything, making an effort. There was no maliciousness intended from any involved parties. If anything, the blurb's proclaimed body positivity is actually full of insecurity. She, just like Belle, keeps going on about which girls a boy prefers yadda yadda. I thought I'd be seeing some go-getters and confident queens!
It has a third act breakup which I'm not a fan of.
*Thanks to her insecurities, not his behaviour
December 7, 2024
funny lighthearted fast-paced
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
likes:
this was such a cute light-hearted set of Christmas novellas that are quick & easy reads. theyre fluff books that are good feel good reads for the holidays. the books follow a group of three best friends, starting at a scene where they make a wish on the star of a town christmas tree as part of a town tradition then splitting up as they each have their own journey to love. all three books take place over the same time span and have references and cameos of the other characters throughout.
criticisms:
they all follow the same sort of plot: forced proximity, bond, kiss once, break up, christmas magic gets them back together, happily ever after so once you've read one you can guess the whole plot of the others.
and books 2 and three are almost the same thing just gender swapped and slightly different backstories with one mc hating christmas, being forced to spend time together doing christmassy things, break up happens right after the first kiss and is miscommunication over one of the mcs being paid for that time but they actually refused the money.
tysm to the author for the arcs of this series
Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
likes:
this was such a cute light-hearted set of Christmas novellas that are quick & easy reads. theyre fluff books that are good feel good reads for the holidays. the books follow a group of three best friends, starting at a scene where they make a wish on the star of a town christmas tree as part of a town tradition then splitting up as they each have their own journey to love. all three books take place over the same time span and have references and cameos of the other characters throughout.
criticisms:
they all follow the same sort of plot: forced proximity, bond, kiss once, break up, christmas magic gets them back together, happily ever after so once you've read one you can guess the whole plot of the others.
and books 2 and three are almost the same thing just gender swapped and slightly different backstories with one mc hating christmas, being forced to spend time together doing christmassy things, break up happens right after the first kiss and is miscommunication over one of the mcs being paid for that time but they actually refused the money.
tysm to the author for the arcs of this series
October 27, 2024
Sweet Young Love!
A Curvy Carol is a YA novellas. New boy in town, forced proximity, black cat/golden reliever.
Whit is the new boy in Garland, Maine. His parents had just bought the lodge and have been so busy with the lodge. With Whit being the new boy in town and missing his old friends his mom set it up for him to meet a new friend this new Christmas.
Carolynn no longer looks forward to Christmas since her parents divorce. She was tired of having to be rushed and pushed to do stuff between her parents. This year she decides that she is going to put her foot down. But she was going to show the new boy around town.
Both Whit and Carol were hesitant. But after meeting Carol makes a list of all the different Christmas activities that the both of them can do leading up to Christmas. Each activity each day their feelings started growing for one another. Until Carol finds out something that hurts and Whit must make a grand gesture to win her back.
This is the 3rd novella in the series. However, you can read each one as a standalone or in any order you would like.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Bookfunnel, and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review for the author.
A Curvy Carol is a YA novellas. New boy in town, forced proximity, black cat/golden reliever.
Whit is the new boy in Garland, Maine. His parents had just bought the lodge and have been so busy with the lodge. With Whit being the new boy in town and missing his old friends his mom set it up for him to meet a new friend this new Christmas.
Carolynn no longer looks forward to Christmas since her parents divorce. She was tired of having to be rushed and pushed to do stuff between her parents. This year she decides that she is going to put her foot down. But she was going to show the new boy around town.
Both Whit and Carol were hesitant. But after meeting Carol makes a list of all the different Christmas activities that the both of them can do leading up to Christmas. Each activity each day their feelings started growing for one another. Until Carol finds out something that hurts and Whit must make a grand gesture to win her back.
This is the 3rd novella in the series. However, you can read each one as a standalone or in any order you would like.
I received an ARC copy of this book from Bookfunnel, and I’m voluntarily leaving an honest review for the author.
November 11, 2024
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review. This book is a Curvy Girl Christmas book and can be read as a standalone, though the author suggests reading this book last. A Curvy Carol is told through Caroline and Whit's pov and is a sweet grumpy and sunshine romance.
CW: effects of divorce
Spice: sweet kisses
Right from the start, it was easy to feel for Caroline as she felt the stress of the holidays because of the activities that her parents had planned for her. It was also easy to feel for Whit as he was in the need of companionship. With Caroline not being a fan of Christmas, it was fun having her show Whit around Garland, their Christmas obsessed town, and seeing the holidays through his eyes. I liked how Whit wanted her to enjoy spending time with him and not dread Christmas as much. It was sweet to see their friendship develop into more. Though this story deals with Caroline's feelings about her parent's divorce and how the holidays can be difficult, the author approached it in a delicate way and kept the tone of the story light. This is my favorite of the three novellas the author wrote for the Curvy Girl Christmas books and is one I know can be enjoyed by both teens and adults who love sweet YA romance.
CW: effects of divorce
Spice: sweet kisses
Right from the start, it was easy to feel for Caroline as she felt the stress of the holidays because of the activities that her parents had planned for her. It was also easy to feel for Whit as he was in the need of companionship. With Caroline not being a fan of Christmas, it was fun having her show Whit around Garland, their Christmas obsessed town, and seeing the holidays through his eyes. I liked how Whit wanted her to enjoy spending time with him and not dread Christmas as much. It was sweet to see their friendship develop into more. Though this story deals with Caroline's feelings about her parent's divorce and how the holidays can be difficult, the author approached it in a delicate way and kept the tone of the story light. This is my favorite of the three novellas the author wrote for the Curvy Girl Christmas books and is one I know can be enjoyed by both teens and adults who love sweet YA romance.
October 28, 2024
Ever since her parents divorce, Carolynn can’t stand Christmas. All the rushing around between the two of them to do ALL the Christmas stuff was just too much. This year, she’s putting her foot down. Her parents agree on one condition - she show the new kid in town all the magic that Garland has to offer.
Whit’s parents just bought the lodge, making him the new guy in town. Unfortunately, he also feels like he’s the loneliest guy in town. Then his parents “find” him a new friend and the adventures begin.
Whit is determined to prove to Carolynn that Christmas isn’t so bad after all. Carolynn doesn’t think anything can change her mind. As she slowly gets to experience everything through Whit’s perspective, she feels that maybe Christmas isn’t so bad after all.
Whit’s parents just bought the lodge, making him the new guy in town. Unfortunately, he also feels like he’s the loneliest guy in town. Then his parents “find” him a new friend and the adventures begin.
Whit is determined to prove to Carolynn that Christmas isn’t so bad after all. Carolynn doesn’t think anything can change her mind. As she slowly gets to experience everything through Whit’s perspective, she feels that maybe Christmas isn’t so bad after all.
October 25, 2024
3.5⭐️!
~Arc Review~
All the books in this series are interconnected!
Tropes-
Small town
Dual Pov
New boy in town
This story was so delightful! Whit the MMC is new in the small town of Garland and Carolynn the FMC agrees to show him around per her parents request. They spend a lot of time with one another and slowly start to fall in love but then she finds out something that hurts her and Whit grovels. I absolutely loved what he did to win her back I thought it was so thoughtful. He truly is a cinnamon roll hero and I loved the scenery of the town. If you enjoy Hallmark but make it YA I think you would love this series.
Thank you to Kelsie for sending me this book!
~Arc Review~
All the books in this series are interconnected!
Tropes-
Small town
Dual Pov
New boy in town
This story was so delightful! Whit the MMC is new in the small town of Garland and Carolynn the FMC agrees to show him around per her parents request. They spend a lot of time with one another and slowly start to fall in love but then she finds out something that hurts her and Whit grovels. I absolutely loved what he did to win her back I thought it was so thoughtful. He truly is a cinnamon roll hero and I loved the scenery of the town. If you enjoy Hallmark but make it YA I think you would love this series.
Thank you to Kelsie for sending me this book!
October 28, 2024
Curvy Girl Christmas - Arc Review
these three christmas romances are exactly what i needed in high school. i loved watching all of the cheesy hallmark christmas movies, but never got to see myself in any of them. if you enjoyed Let It Snow or Dash and Lily, you will absolutely love this set of Christmas stories. each story is a quick and lighthearted read with a holiday-themed happily ever after
the details 🎄
- YA Christmas romance
- small town
- dual pov
- plus size rep fmc
- found family
- lots of Christmas magic
- secret identity ( Santa Loves Curvy Girls )
- forced proximity ( A Curvy Carol )
- grumpy x sunshine ( A Curvy Wonderland )
these three christmas romances are exactly what i needed in high school. i loved watching all of the cheesy hallmark christmas movies, but never got to see myself in any of them. if you enjoyed Let It Snow or Dash and Lily, you will absolutely love this set of Christmas stories. each story is a quick and lighthearted read with a holiday-themed happily ever after
the details 🎄
- YA Christmas romance
- small town
- dual pov
- plus size rep fmc
- found family
- lots of Christmas magic
- secret identity ( Santa Loves Curvy Girls )
- forced proximity ( A Curvy Carol )
- grumpy x sunshine ( A Curvy Wonderland )
November 4, 2024
As I read through the books I felt myself getting cosier and falling in love with the characters, their development and the small town with a big sense of community.
This stories have so much warmth and a true Christmassy feel whilst reading them, grab yourself a snuggly blanket, a mega mug of hot choccie and some snacks because you won’t want to move until you’ve devoured this festive treat of books.
Holly is giving me a Cindy-Lou vibe whilst Eldan gives Grinch.
Nick and Belle are full on festive vibes for me full of wholesome cuteness.
The gorgeousness of Carolynn and Whit as they blossom individually and together is lush, showing us that relationships are give and take.
This stories have so much warmth and a true Christmassy feel whilst reading them, grab yourself a snuggly blanket, a mega mug of hot choccie and some snacks because you won’t want to move until you’ve devoured this festive treat of books.
Holly is giving me a Cindy-Lou vibe whilst Eldan gives Grinch.
Nick and Belle are full on festive vibes for me full of wholesome cuteness.
The gorgeousness of Carolynn and Whit as they blossom individually and together is lush, showing us that relationships are give and take.
October 31, 2024
I absolutely adore this book! It is such a cute black cat/golden retriever story. I was swooning and laughing in equal measure while reading. This one is probably my favorite of the series. I just love Carolynn and Whit so much! They are very sweet together. I enjoyed following them on their holiday bucket list adventure. It was incredibly fun! And I totally teared up at Whits grand gesture in the end. He's definitely a keeper that's for sure! If you like reading sweet holiday romance then this story is for you. I highly recommend it!
November 8, 2024
I wish that these books where available when i was a young curvy girl.
It brings me joy that there are beautiful girls out there that can read these uplifting body-positive stories.
Garland, Maine is a sweet little town with a great Christmas spirit.
A ideal setting for al these heartwarming and sweet stories that make you wish it was Christmas already.
Every book has his own plus-size heroine and trope.
These are all quick to read so pick your favorite drink, snack and blanket and make yourself comfortabel to read these great loveable stories.
It brings me joy that there are beautiful girls out there that can read these uplifting body-positive stories.
Garland, Maine is a sweet little town with a great Christmas spirit.
A ideal setting for al these heartwarming and sweet stories that make you wish it was Christmas already.
Every book has his own plus-size heroine and trope.
These are all quick to read so pick your favorite drink, snack and blanket and make yourself comfortabel to read these great loveable stories.
December 15, 2024
This was the cutest little Christmas series! Each story had such charm! Just as the other two books, I loved the main characters! Carolynn and Whit were really cute and probably my favorite couple out of the three.
I loved how all of the stories were connected within the same town of Garland. I loved visiting Scrooge’s diner and other local places from different view points.
This was super sweet, innocent, and simple. Perfect little novellas to escape into for some seasonal fluff and feel good vibes. Loved it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved how all of the stories were connected within the same town of Garland. I loved visiting Scrooge’s diner and other local places from different view points.
This was super sweet, innocent, and simple. Perfect little novellas to escape into for some seasonal fluff and feel good vibes. Loved it!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 24, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I really really really enjoyed this book. I thought the second book in the Christmas series was the best, but honestly, this one takes the cake! I loved how Kelsie mixed emotional topics and the Christmas spirit. This book is perfect for a young adult, teenager, or anyone looking for a lighthearted Christmas town romance.
This is a closed door romance (YA).
CW: divorce conversations and repercussions
Main Tropes:
🎄 Curvy FMC
💚 Dual POV
🎄Christmas wishes
💚 Strangers to friends to more
🎄 Hallmark vibes
I really really really enjoyed this book. I thought the second book in the Christmas series was the best, but honestly, this one takes the cake! I loved how Kelsie mixed emotional topics and the Christmas spirit. This book is perfect for a young adult, teenager, or anyone looking for a lighthearted Christmas town romance.
This is a closed door romance (YA).
CW: divorce conversations and repercussions
Main Tropes:
🎄 Curvy FMC
💚 Dual POV
🎄Christmas wishes
💚 Strangers to friends to more
🎄 Hallmark vibes
November 26, 2025
"A Curvy Carol" is a sweet, cozy holiday romance that wraps you up like a warm blanket. Kelsie Stelting brings plenty of charm, body positivity, and feel-good festive vibes to the story. Carol is an easy heroine to root for—funny, self-aware, and refreshingly real—and her chemistry with the love interest is adorable from start to finish.
It’s a quick read, a little predictable in the best Christmas-movie way, and leaves you with a happy heart. Perfect for anyone wanting a cheerful, confidence-boosting holiday romance!
It’s a quick read, a little predictable in the best Christmas-movie way, and leaves you with a happy heart. Perfect for anyone wanting a cheerful, confidence-boosting holiday romance!
December 14, 2025
Carolynn & Whit's story is so sweet & yet I kept wishing for more x They're was a lot of beautiful moments throughout this story and really loved how things slowly progressed between these 2 especially how both Carolynn & Whit weren't too pleased about the whole situation and the reasoning behind them spending time together x
There were a few times I felt like the author would repeat themselves or would say something but then the next sentence would contradict what was said before x
Overall a lovely little Christmas romance xxxxxx
There were a few times I felt like the author would repeat themselves or would say something but then the next sentence would contradict what was said before x
Overall a lovely little Christmas romance xxxxxx
November 1, 2024
First, I would like to express my gratitude to Kelsie and her team for being able to read and review these books early. I’m so excited and thankful for the opportunity.
I loved the sparks between Carolynn and Whit. They were so cute and it made me so giddy.
I also really enjoyed reading more about things to do in Garland. I liked seeing them both want up to each other. I thought it was so sweet.
I really enjoyed this book! And the ending was so sweet!!
I loved the sparks between Carolynn and Whit. They were so cute and it made me so giddy.
I also really enjoyed reading more about things to do in Garland. I liked seeing them both want up to each other. I thought it was so sweet.
I really enjoyed this book! And the ending was so sweet!!
November 4, 2024
Heartfelt Holiday Fun!
This book completely warmed my heart! Following a girl determined to avoid Christmas, only to be tasked with showing the new guy in town the holiday spirit of Garland, Maine, made for such a sweet, fun read. Watching her rediscover the magic of Christmas while wondering if his feelings are genuine kept me hooked until the last page. It’s a perfect blend of romance, festive cheer, and a bit of drama—everything you want in a holiday romance.
This book completely warmed my heart! Following a girl determined to avoid Christmas, only to be tasked with showing the new guy in town the holiday spirit of Garland, Maine, made for such a sweet, fun read. Watching her rediscover the magic of Christmas while wondering if his feelings are genuine kept me hooked until the last page. It’s a perfect blend of romance, festive cheer, and a bit of drama—everything you want in a holiday romance.
November 19, 2024
This was cute! Not really A Christmas Caroly, besides the Scrooge references, but the MCs did have tainted Christmas past that they needed to heal from.
Carolynn and Whit are forced to hang out by their parents but soon they start having fun and crushing on each other. Their budding relationship was cute. It was a short and sweet Christmas novella that I think fans and new readers of Kelsie will enjoy 😄
Carolynn and Whit are forced to hang out by their parents but soon they start having fun and crushing on each other. Their budding relationship was cute. It was a short and sweet Christmas novella that I think fans and new readers of Kelsie will enjoy 😄
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