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Criminally Captivated #2
Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas!
Christmastime on an assassin compound isn’t all that different from Christmastime everywhere else.
There’s sledding. There’s cookies. There’s pining over your best friend as he strangles a man in the street.
Cue me, mooning over the way his biceps flex as he squeezes our meddlesome neighbor’s throat.
When he’s not nearly killing a man — and, let’s be real, even when he is — Basil Cole is the most perfect man on earth. Except for one teensy tiny little thing…
He hates Christmas.
And me? I love it.
A sign, I’m sure, of how we were never meant to be.
Now someone just needs to tell that to my heart…
Oh No, Best Friend Hates Christmas! is a closed-door dark romantic comedy with plenty of sweet holiday heat, but none of the spice. Reader expectations are located after the title page and are highly recommended for the best reader experience.
There’s sledding. There’s cookies. There’s pining over your best friend as he strangles a man in the street.
Cue me, mooning over the way his biceps flex as he squeezes our meddlesome neighbor’s throat.
When he’s not nearly killing a man — and, let’s be real, even when he is — Basil Cole is the most perfect man on earth. Except for one teensy tiny little thing…
He hates Christmas.
And me? I love it.
A sign, I’m sure, of how we were never meant to be.
Now someone just needs to tell that to my heart…
Oh No, Best Friend Hates Christmas! is a closed-door dark romantic comedy with plenty of sweet holiday heat, but none of the spice. Reader expectations are located after the title page and are highly recommended for the best reader experience.
122 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2024
26 people are currently reading
95 people want to read
About the author
Storm Sterling
7 books80 followersStorm Sterling loves writing unhinged, closed-door romance that’s HOT without spice. She lives in midwest America with a large, broad-shouldered man and three tiny clones. It is her life goal to write books well enough that she can afford all of her favorite author's books. This goal is secondary only to playing Stardew Valley all day every day.
Please buy Storm’s books so she can afford more gaming hours and more Camilla Evergreen books. Seriously. Please. She’s desperate.
Please buy Storm’s books so she can afford more gaming hours and more Camilla Evergreen books. Seriously. Please. She’s desperate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
October 26, 2024
I'm not sure how to feel about this, tbh. But I think it's okay-ish?? 🙈😅
Heidi did all the talking for both of them in the first half. I’m not sure if I should be impressed that she can totally read Basil’s shrug, frown, grunts, raised eyebrow, and head tilt like a total pro. 🤔
I was starting to think Basil was mute.🫠 It seemed like he hardly spoke at all in the first half—maybe just 20 words! 🤦♀️ Most of the time, he was just using body language to "chat" with Heidi, and I'm using that word loosely.
Also, I find her a bit too quirky for my taste. She can be pretty funny sometimes, no doubt about that. But I think it became too much at the second half, because again, she's the only one doing all the talking. 🤷♀️
Then, in the last quarter, Basil decided to finally use his words and spew poetic and sweet things to convey how he really feels about her. It caught me off guard how easily he pulled a complete 180. Like, what happened, Mr.? Are you alright? Are you sick? Because, truthfully, I kinda got used to him not speaking. 🫣
Anyway, what went down with them was really just a huge miscommunication. If they had just talked, I really don’t think they would have spent the last three years ignoring how they felt about each other. They've been in love for ages, but since they both believe the other doesn't feel the same way, they decided to just be friends and roommates instead. 🤷♀️
Overall, it was pretty okay. It had its ups and downs, and I’d rather not focus too much on the latter part because I really believe this book has potential, just like the first one did.
PS. I'm really curious about Archie's book! I hope it's going to be fun as well.
Book info:
- Novella
- Miscommunication
- Friends to lovers
- Clean romance
- No swearing
- Christmas themed
- No cheating, OPD, separation
- HEA (married)
Heidi did all the talking for both of them in the first half. I’m not sure if I should be impressed that she can totally read Basil’s shrug, frown, grunts, raised eyebrow, and head tilt like a total pro. 🤔
I was starting to think Basil was mute.🫠 It seemed like he hardly spoke at all in the first half—maybe just 20 words! 🤦♀️ Most of the time, he was just using body language to "chat" with Heidi, and I'm using that word loosely.
Also, I find her a bit too quirky for my taste. She can be pretty funny sometimes, no doubt about that. But I think it became too much at the second half, because again, she's the only one doing all the talking. 🤷♀️
Then, in the last quarter, Basil decided to finally use his words and spew poetic and sweet things to convey how he really feels about her. It caught me off guard how easily he pulled a complete 180. Like, what happened, Mr.? Are you alright? Are you sick? Because, truthfully, I kinda got used to him not speaking. 🫣
Anyway, what went down with them was really just a huge miscommunication. If they had just talked, I really don’t think they would have spent the last three years ignoring how they felt about each other. They've been in love for ages, but since they both believe the other doesn't feel the same way, they decided to just be friends and roommates instead. 🤷♀️
Overall, it was pretty okay. It had its ups and downs, and I’d rather not focus too much on the latter part because I really believe this book has potential, just like the first one did.
PS. I'm really curious about Archie's book! I hope it's going to be fun as well.
Book info:
- Novella
- Miscommunication
- Friends to lovers
- Clean romance
- No swearing
- Christmas themed
- No cheating, OPD, separation
- HEA (married)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 25, 2024
ARC review
This was adorable and so funny.
Two idiots in love and I loved every second of it.
Heidi is so much and I love that she is. She doesn't make excuses, she just is.
And Basil so gruff, gentle giant of a man, I loved him
This was adorable and so funny.
Two idiots in love and I loved every second of it.
Heidi is so much and I love that she is. She doesn't make excuses, she just is.
And Basil so gruff, gentle giant of a man, I loved him
February 6, 2025
Picked this "baby"(lol) up today and could not put it down! Basil and Heidi are the CUTEST freaking couple! I wanted to yell, "Confess already," all the time! I definitely squealed at the book many, many times.
I know that Storm has weather magic, but this book was full of Christmas magic! It's the only explanation for this masterpiece. Love everything Storm has written, and I can not wait for the next Compound book! I will be Storm fan girling over here over yet another one of her magical word portals!
I know that Storm has weather magic, but this book was full of Christmas magic! It's the only explanation for this masterpiece. Love everything Storm has written, and I can not wait for the next Compound book! I will be Storm fan girling over here over yet another one of her magical word portals!
November 30, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Genre: Christmas romcom
Content: makeouts, choking of a man (on page)
This book has some kooky characters! Heidi is over-the-top sunshine. She's so energetic, so talkative, and loves Christmas so much. Basil, or Baz for short (rhymes with Taz), on the other hand, does not speak much at all. He mainly speaks in grunts, which Heidi has learned to interpret over the course of their friendship. They are roommates and best friends...but a kitten helps turn them into more! You'll have to read it to find out what that's all about. 😉
Heidi is bookish and she's obsessed with Camilla Evergreen books. I found this fun because from what I understand, the author of this book is twins with Camilla. Love the sisterly love!!! So fun.
Favorite Quotes:
❤️ I'd follow Baz anywhere. To home or deeper into the woods - as long as I'm with him, I know I'll be okay.
😆 Communication is going to have to wait, and love is going to have to thrive later. I have escapism to see to right now, that ever-impatient mistress.
😂 I definitely do not sigh or grumble or mention the confusing idiocy of men under my breath. That would be immature, and I am not immature.
☠️ I sit up, turning to see what punishment Baz has decided to deal out. You won't catch me missing out on a touch-her-and-die, that's for sure. I am going to savor every moment of this, my favorite trope.
Genre: Christmas romcom
Content: makeouts, choking of a man (on page)
This book has some kooky characters! Heidi is over-the-top sunshine. She's so energetic, so talkative, and loves Christmas so much. Basil, or Baz for short (rhymes with Taz), on the other hand, does not speak much at all. He mainly speaks in grunts, which Heidi has learned to interpret over the course of their friendship. They are roommates and best friends...but a kitten helps turn them into more! You'll have to read it to find out what that's all about. 😉
Heidi is bookish and she's obsessed with Camilla Evergreen books. I found this fun because from what I understand, the author of this book is twins with Camilla. Love the sisterly love!!! So fun.
Favorite Quotes:
❤️ I'd follow Baz anywhere. To home or deeper into the woods - as long as I'm with him, I know I'll be okay.
😆 Communication is going to have to wait, and love is going to have to thrive later. I have escapism to see to right now, that ever-impatient mistress.
😂 I definitely do not sigh or grumble or mention the confusing idiocy of men under my breath. That would be immature, and I am not immature.
☠️ I sit up, turning to see what punishment Baz has decided to deal out. You won't catch me missing out on a touch-her-and-die, that's for sure. I am going to savor every moment of this, my favorite trope.
November 6, 2024
First of all, Baz is the definition of a MMC written by a woman for women because holy cow did I get all the tingles and butterflies when he (rarely) spoke!
This novella is short, sweet, and sassy—and completely, ridiculously unrealistic in a charming way. (I mean it’s based on a Robin Hood-esque assassin’s compound in Kentucky, so if you’re expecting realistic please stop being a silly goose.)
It’s the perfect read when you want to giggle and kick your feet and escape from the real world for a while!
This novella is short, sweet, and sassy—and completely, ridiculously unrealistic in a charming way. (I mean it’s based on a Robin Hood-esque assassin’s compound in Kentucky, so if you’re expecting realistic please stop being a silly goose.)
It’s the perfect read when you want to giggle and kick your feet and escape from the real world for a while!
November 13, 2024
In another wonderfully morally gray story by Storm Sterling, we meet our FMC, the assistant to an assassination team, and her best friend, our MMC—a former assassin. These two are irresistibly charming together! She’s secretly hoping for something more but hilariously misreads every sign, interpreting his nonverbal cues while missing the obvious ones. This laugh-out-loud book will keep you smiling till the very end!
December 21, 2024
Finally got to read this ARC after finishing this semester of grad school!
This was a light hearted easy read that is connected to the other book she has out but you don’t have to read it before you read this one!
I love the shoutouts to Camilla Evergreen, she is one of my favorite authors as well!
Overall this is a cozy Christmas vibe read that’s low risk but fun to read!
This was a light hearted easy read that is connected to the other book she has out but you don’t have to read it before you read this one!
I love the shoutouts to Camilla Evergreen, she is one of my favorite authors as well!
Overall this is a cozy Christmas vibe read that’s low risk but fun to read!
March 14, 2025
Super cute! I especially loved the little references to Camilla Evergreen books. Heidi and Baz were adorable in the way that they communicated and cared for one another. I just didn’t get how they couldn’t see that the other person was in love with them. So obvious!
May 30, 2025
And just when I complained about the deep end of the pool with Oh No, My Kidnapper Is Hot! I then go into its second look into this world with Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas and find myself back in the sweeter side of humorously dark romance, complete with the biggest friend and fangirl shout-out ever as this seriously revolves around the best of Camilla Evergreen’s romcoms. There is no doubt in anyone’s mind who has discovered Storm Sterling that she is hardcore in literary love with her fellow writer’s work.
Which (surprisingly) fits seamlessly in the storyline where Camilla’s works are referenced, quoted, squee’d over, religiously collected and read by both of our lead characters.
Go Storm- show that love.
We met Heidi and Basil in Kidnapper, as roommates and besties living on Stryker’s compound deep in Kentucky hill country. Stryker and his wife, Millie are mentioned, but not seen here- in fact the only characters we officially interact with are Heidi, Basil and the compound computer whiz, professional torturer and outright nuisance, Archie. And that is really all we need here.
Heidi had, several years earlier, answered an ad for an executive assistant- only to find out at the interview she would be scheduling meetings for her boss in which he met with clients to take on assassination contracts. She was only to stay at Basil’s home for a few weeks until a cabin could be setup for her, but they got along so well they just remained roommates instead.
Basil, built like a brick wall, surprisingly British, despite mostly talking in looks and grunts only, is retired from the assassination game, but he’s kind and gentile to Heidi, a non-stop chatterbox who says exactly what she means whether it comes out right or not… in fact, Baz loves how her mouth just keeps going, even if it’s stammering and she’s blushing beet red from whatever had just gushed from her lips.
Heidi loves how even through his expressions and grunts, she can interpret Baz’s non-verbal tendencies into full-on conversations. Of course he t doesn’t hurt that he’s the warmest human-masquerading at a breathing and cuddling body pillow for their quiet evenings reading, nor does it hurt that they both share an adoration for Camilla Evergreen romcom books.
The trouble is that while these besties have no trouble spending hours in each other’s company, and openly admit how much they love one another, Heidi’s love runs to romantic rather than platonic friendship. Unwilling to destroy the relationship they do have is not doing her attraction to him any favors either. But when Archie gleefully agrees to help her get her man, she immediately smells a rat.
Archie’s idiotic attempts make for entertaining reading, as well as Baz’s odd behavior- now speaking more (and in full sentences) as well as participating in activities outside his comfort zone but fill Heidi with joy.
Has Baz somehow been conked on the head when cutting down their massive Christmas tree and just forgotten about it? But his odd behavior doesn’t fit the description for a concussion, so just what is going on?
Loads of Christmas fun, flirty moments and homemade Christmas-themed Bento boxes of joy await you as the holiday season descends and Heidi realizes there really is no place like home for the holidays when the right person is there to spend it with you.
I’m actually giving this one four and a half stars… it would be five, but I would have loved even just a glimpse of Archie’s torture room and just what happens down there as he perhaps has far too many loose screws to seem remotely effective at his job.
Too dark for the Christmas season? Eh, that half star is for the description of Archie’s Bento box alone…. wow, it was hilariously descriptive.
Which (surprisingly) fits seamlessly in the storyline where Camilla’s works are referenced, quoted, squee’d over, religiously collected and read by both of our lead characters.
Go Storm- show that love.
We met Heidi and Basil in Kidnapper, as roommates and besties living on Stryker’s compound deep in Kentucky hill country. Stryker and his wife, Millie are mentioned, but not seen here- in fact the only characters we officially interact with are Heidi, Basil and the compound computer whiz, professional torturer and outright nuisance, Archie. And that is really all we need here.
Heidi had, several years earlier, answered an ad for an executive assistant- only to find out at the interview she would be scheduling meetings for her boss in which he met with clients to take on assassination contracts. She was only to stay at Basil’s home for a few weeks until a cabin could be setup for her, but they got along so well they just remained roommates instead.
Basil, built like a brick wall, surprisingly British, despite mostly talking in looks and grunts only, is retired from the assassination game, but he’s kind and gentile to Heidi, a non-stop chatterbox who says exactly what she means whether it comes out right or not… in fact, Baz loves how her mouth just keeps going, even if it’s stammering and she’s blushing beet red from whatever had just gushed from her lips.
Heidi loves how even through his expressions and grunts, she can interpret Baz’s non-verbal tendencies into full-on conversations. Of course he t doesn’t hurt that he’s the warmest human-masquerading at a breathing and cuddling body pillow for their quiet evenings reading, nor does it hurt that they both share an adoration for Camilla Evergreen romcom books.
The trouble is that while these besties have no trouble spending hours in each other’s company, and openly admit how much they love one another, Heidi’s love runs to romantic rather than platonic friendship. Unwilling to destroy the relationship they do have is not doing her attraction to him any favors either. But when Archie gleefully agrees to help her get her man, she immediately smells a rat.
Archie’s idiotic attempts make for entertaining reading, as well as Baz’s odd behavior- now speaking more (and in full sentences) as well as participating in activities outside his comfort zone but fill Heidi with joy.
Has Baz somehow been conked on the head when cutting down their massive Christmas tree and just forgotten about it? But his odd behavior doesn’t fit the description for a concussion, so just what is going on?
Loads of Christmas fun, flirty moments and homemade Christmas-themed Bento boxes of joy await you as the holiday season descends and Heidi realizes there really is no place like home for the holidays when the right person is there to spend it with you.
I’m actually giving this one four and a half stars… it would be five, but I would have loved even just a glimpse of Archie’s torture room and just what happens down there as he perhaps has far too many loose screws to seem remotely effective at his job.
Too dark for the Christmas season? Eh, that half star is for the description of Archie’s Bento box alone…. wow, it was hilariously descriptive.
October 25, 2024
How do I even begin to talk about how swoony this book is?
First of all, I’m a sucker for a Christmas love story. I’m a Hallmark movie junkie, and I’m not afraid to admit it. Sometimes—okay, a lot of the time—I just need to watch something that I know is going to have a happily ever after.
Enter Storm Sterling, and Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas!
Now, Storm, if you’re reading this, please note that I am in no way saying your book is like a Hallmark Christmas movie, even if I think that’s exactly the vibe you were writing here. Because, frankly, this book is BETTER.. You made me CRY, Storm! (This is not a complaint.)
Just the prologue set my little heart aflutter, just a scene of the two main characters, Heidi and Basil (or Baz, or even Bazzy, as he is often called), cuddled together, each reading a book. Again, may I compliment the overt and frequent mentions of one of my most favorite authors, Camilla Evergreen. In fact, both Heidi and Baz are reading Camilla Evergreen books.
Oh, did I mention Baz used to be an assassin? And that Heidi is the executive assistant of an assassin? (Stryker only kills bad people, I promise. The worst people who don't even qualify as people. And this is a prime time to mention that if you haven’t read Oh No, My Kidnapper is Hot!, I suggest waiting until you’ve finished reading this review before pouncing on the aforementioned novel.)
Baz is a man of few words, so when he speaks, it has gravity. Heidi, in contrast, talks all the time, and also speaks “Baz” fluently, to the point where he doesn’t even need to say a word. However, whenever they have a “sleepover” (there is no naughty stuff in the book, so stop freaking out), Baz’s words flood forth like a tsunami. And he really talks, about everything and nothing but also talks directly to Heidi, telling her how wonderful she is, how much he loves her, etc.
It’s so cute that neither of them thinks the other loves them.
Now, back to the main theme. Heidi thinks Baz hates Christmas, and yet, he begrudgingly (but willingly) goes with Heidi on Christmas adventures. Does he actually hate Christmas? You must read the book to find out.
This story is full of Christmas cheer (even with a few well-intentioned mishaps from Archie, and no, I’m not going to explain who he is), and so much unrequited love that I could just—again—swoon. Also, KITTEN! Who doesn’t love a kitten? Little furry, purry bundles of joy!
This is Storm’s second book. Yes, her second book ever. She’s already right up there with Camilla Evergreen for me, and with the way she gets me hooked on her stories, I’m certain she’s going to stay in that top tier of favorite authors. I will literally read anything she writes. So should you.
First of all, I’m a sucker for a Christmas love story. I’m a Hallmark movie junkie, and I’m not afraid to admit it. Sometimes—okay, a lot of the time—I just need to watch something that I know is going to have a happily ever after.
Enter Storm Sterling, and Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas!
Now, Storm, if you’re reading this, please note that I am in no way saying your book is like a Hallmark Christmas movie, even if I think that’s exactly the vibe you were writing here. Because, frankly, this book is BETTER.. You made me CRY, Storm! (This is not a complaint.)
Just the prologue set my little heart aflutter, just a scene of the two main characters, Heidi and Basil (or Baz, or even Bazzy, as he is often called), cuddled together, each reading a book. Again, may I compliment the overt and frequent mentions of one of my most favorite authors, Camilla Evergreen. In fact, both Heidi and Baz are reading Camilla Evergreen books.
Oh, did I mention Baz used to be an assassin? And that Heidi is the executive assistant of an assassin? (Stryker only kills bad people, I promise. The worst people who don't even qualify as people. And this is a prime time to mention that if you haven’t read Oh No, My Kidnapper is Hot!, I suggest waiting until you’ve finished reading this review before pouncing on the aforementioned novel.)
Baz is a man of few words, so when he speaks, it has gravity. Heidi, in contrast, talks all the time, and also speaks “Baz” fluently, to the point where he doesn’t even need to say a word. However, whenever they have a “sleepover” (there is no naughty stuff in the book, so stop freaking out), Baz’s words flood forth like a tsunami. And he really talks, about everything and nothing but also talks directly to Heidi, telling her how wonderful she is, how much he loves her, etc.
It’s so cute that neither of them thinks the other loves them.
Now, back to the main theme. Heidi thinks Baz hates Christmas, and yet, he begrudgingly (but willingly) goes with Heidi on Christmas adventures. Does he actually hate Christmas? You must read the book to find out.
This story is full of Christmas cheer (even with a few well-intentioned mishaps from Archie, and no, I’m not going to explain who he is), and so much unrequited love that I could just—again—swoon. Also, KITTEN! Who doesn’t love a kitten? Little furry, purry bundles of joy!
This is Storm’s second book. Yes, her second book ever. She’s already right up there with Camilla Evergreen for me, and with the way she gets me hooked on her stories, I’m certain she’s going to stay in that top tier of favorite authors. I will literally read anything she writes. So should you.
November 2, 2024
Christmastime on an assassin compound isn’t all that different from Christmastime everywhere else.
There’s sledding. There’s cookies. There’s pining over your best friend as he strangles a man in the street. Cue me, mooning over the way his biceps flex as he squeezes our meddlesome neighbor’s throat.
When he’s not nearly killing a man — and, let’s be real, even when he is — Basil Cole is the most perfect man on earth. Except for one teensy tiny little thing…
He hates Christmas.
And me? I love it.
A sign, I’m sure, of how we were never meant to be. Now someone just needs to tell that to my heart…
Oh No, Best Friend Hates Christmas! is a closed-door dark romantic comedy with plenty of sweet holiday heat, but none of the spice. Reader expectations are located after the title page and are highly recommended for the best reader experience.
I was laughing from the dedication all the way through the prologue. This is not your normal expected lovey dovey romance, but is a romcom all the way. Something else to note, Basil rarely talks...like it seems like Heidi is talking to herself...but she just knows how to read Basil's every expression and nuance.
Heidi and Baz were funny and adorable...I mean...they read books while snuggling together. I'm a little jealous...because my hubby doesn't read like that. 🤣
They have a sweet, odd best friend relationship...but what happens when some mischief maker...aka Archie causes trouble. Did I mention the kittens??
Thanks for the ARC copy and the giggles Storm Sterling
There’s sledding. There’s cookies. There’s pining over your best friend as he strangles a man in the street. Cue me, mooning over the way his biceps flex as he squeezes our meddlesome neighbor’s throat.
When he’s not nearly killing a man — and, let’s be real, even when he is — Basil Cole is the most perfect man on earth. Except for one teensy tiny little thing…
He hates Christmas.
And me? I love it.
A sign, I’m sure, of how we were never meant to be. Now someone just needs to tell that to my heart…
Oh No, Best Friend Hates Christmas! is a closed-door dark romantic comedy with plenty of sweet holiday heat, but none of the spice. Reader expectations are located after the title page and are highly recommended for the best reader experience.
I was laughing from the dedication all the way through the prologue. This is not your normal expected lovey dovey romance, but is a romcom all the way. Something else to note, Basil rarely talks...like it seems like Heidi is talking to herself...but she just knows how to read Basil's every expression and nuance.
Heidi and Baz were funny and adorable...I mean...they read books while snuggling together. I'm a little jealous...because my hubby doesn't read like that. 🤣
They have a sweet, odd best friend relationship...but what happens when some mischief maker...aka Archie causes trouble. Did I mention the kittens??
Thanks for the ARC copy and the giggles Storm Sterling
October 26, 2024
🎄 Book Review 🎄
|| Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas! ||
|| Author: Storm Sterling ||
Format: ARC ebook
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Read from: October 25, 2024 to October 26, 2024
2024 RG: 126/100
MCs: Basil and Heidi
🐈 Closed Door
🐈 Grumpy x Sunshine
🐈 Roommates
🐈 Christmas
🐈 Best Friends to Lovers
🐈 Assassin Compound
🐈 Meddling Therapist
🐈 Kitten
🐈 Reading Books Together (especially Camilla Evergreen)
🐈 Man of Few Words (except for her)
🐈 Mutual Pining
Heidi and Baz are roommates and best friends. They read books together, he tolerates her manic Christmas love, he treats her like a queen, he is so hot, she can read him like a book, and they’re definitely just friends. Heidi is in love with Basil Parker Cole, but they’re just friends* so she has to be *respectful.* But why does she have to keep reminding herself of that? And why is Bazzy acting weird lately? What’s with the “baby” nickname he has decided to bestow upon her? She simply cannot last long in these conditions can she?
The second in the series
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
“Christmas itself means nothing to me without the addition of you, but the addition of you means absolutely everything.”
|| Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas! ||
|| Author: Storm Sterling ||
Format: ARC ebook
Release Date: October 25, 2024
Read from: October 25, 2024 to October 26, 2024
2024 RG: 126/100
MCs: Basil and Heidi
🐈 Closed Door
🐈 Grumpy x Sunshine
🐈 Roommates
🐈 Christmas
🐈 Best Friends to Lovers
🐈 Assassin Compound
🐈 Meddling Therapist
🐈 Kitten
🐈 Reading Books Together (especially Camilla Evergreen)
🐈 Man of Few Words (except for her)
🐈 Mutual Pining
Heidi and Baz are roommates and best friends. They read books together, he tolerates her manic Christmas love, he treats her like a queen, he is so hot, she can read him like a book, and they’re definitely just friends. Heidi is in love with Basil Parker Cole, but they’re just friends* so she has to be *respectful.* But why does she have to keep reminding herself of that? And why is Bazzy acting weird lately? What’s with the “baby” nickname he has decided to bestow upon her? She simply cannot last long in these conditions can she?
The second in the series
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5
“Christmas itself means nothing to me without the addition of you, but the addition of you means absolutely everything.”
October 25, 2024
📚ARC Review📚
Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heidi loves all things Christmas; sledding, baking cookies, decorating the Christmas tree and watching Christmas movies all with her best friend, Basil Cole. He’s sweet and always there for her but the problem, he hates Christmas! What kind of person hates Christmas? Because of that and the fact she’s such an outgoing person, Heidi believes they wouldn’t make a good couple. However, her heart maybe thinks they would.
This is the second book in the Criminally Captivated Series and it was just as fun as the first! I loved Heidi‘s character and how she’s so outgoing, great personality, had big heart and loves Christmas. Basil is more laid-back and quiet, but would do anything for her. They are the perfect example of opposites attract. This was such a fun, quick read that is perfect for the holidays.
This book releases today, so be sure to add it to your TBR list! Thank you to author Storm Sterling for my advanced readers copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
Oh No, My Best Friend Hates Christmas!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Heidi loves all things Christmas; sledding, baking cookies, decorating the Christmas tree and watching Christmas movies all with her best friend, Basil Cole. He’s sweet and always there for her but the problem, he hates Christmas! What kind of person hates Christmas? Because of that and the fact she’s such an outgoing person, Heidi believes they wouldn’t make a good couple. However, her heart maybe thinks they would.
This is the second book in the Criminally Captivated Series and it was just as fun as the first! I loved Heidi‘s character and how she’s so outgoing, great personality, had big heart and loves Christmas. Basil is more laid-back and quiet, but would do anything for her. They are the perfect example of opposites attract. This was such a fun, quick read that is perfect for the holidays.
This book releases today, so be sure to add it to your TBR list! Thank you to author Storm Sterling for my advanced readers copy. This is my honest and voluntary opinion.
October 31, 2024
✨Arc Review✨
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommended age: #+
Series: Criminally Captivated #2
It’s a best friends to lovers Christmas novella. Christmas is my favorite time of year, and Storm Sterling really incorporated the holiday into her book. It will put you right into the Christmas spirit.
The only downside to this book is the single pov; however, it was still an enjoyable read. The characters, Heidi and Baz, connect so well, you can’t help but love them and hope for their HEA.
If you like a silent MMC with a chatty FMC, I recommend this one.
This book contains:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Best Friend to Lovers
Christmas
Roommates
Kittens
Sledding
EXTRA:
POV: Single POV, first person, present tense
Door: Closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level ##
Spice Level: kissing only
Language: implied curses
Trigger Warnings: choking (non-sexual)
***Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.***
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Recommended age: #+
Series: Criminally Captivated #2
It’s a best friends to lovers Christmas novella. Christmas is my favorite time of year, and Storm Sterling really incorporated the holiday into her book. It will put you right into the Christmas spirit.
The only downside to this book is the single pov; however, it was still an enjoyable read. The characters, Heidi and Baz, connect so well, you can’t help but love them and hope for their HEA.
If you like a silent MMC with a chatty FMC, I recommend this one.
This book contains:
Grumpy x Sunshine
Best Friend to Lovers
Christmas
Roommates
Kittens
Sledding
EXTRA:
POV: Single POV, first person, present tense
Door: Closed door 🚪
Spice level according to Closed Door Romance: Level ##
Spice Level: kissing only
Language: implied curses
Trigger Warnings: choking (non-sexual)
***Disclaimer: I received an eARC of this book from the author. I was not required to give a favorable review. All opinions are my own.***
October 19, 2024
So much fun! I love this author’s writing style! She had me in stitches from the first sentence. Loved the story, the chemistry, the relationship between best friends who love each other. They are the perfect pair, they balance each other out. This is the second book in a series and I highly recommend reading “Oh No! My Kidnapper Is Hot!” before reading this book to fully understand the concept of the story. These books remind me of K. M. Shea’s vampire series in style. I love the energy and the super fast pace of these stories. They don’t have any unnecessary, long descriptive passages and are a very quick read. Her books absolutely make me laugh and keep my ADHD brain captivated. I highly recommend reading them. Two very enthusiastic thumbs up 👍🏻 👍🏻.
October 30, 2024
Boom yeah! What a great follow-up to Storm Sterling’s debut novel earlier this month. I enjoyed this one even more despite it being a novella and therefore much shorter. I think it’s because the characters were already established and I already loved them.
Heidi is excitable, talks far too much and loves pretty much everything (except Archie when he’s being a blockhead). Basil is calm, collected and says very little in words although he is very expressive. They have been roommates for a long time and know each other very very well. But Heidi wants more than just friendship from Basil, she loves him (even though he hates Christmas, who can possibly hate Christmas?)
I loved the dynamic between Heidi and Basil, even in book one you saw a few hints as to how much they care for each other. Heidi wouldn’t eat if it wasn’t for Basil making sure she got enough food in between talking. And the book reading, oh my swoon! Not only does he let her use him as a human pillow but he also helps her choose her books and even reads the same books as she does and listens and encourages her when she talks about them. I loved the fact they read Camilla Evergreen’s books (a huge favourite of mine and the author). I loved spotting references to books I had also read from CE. I have to say I saw the marriage kitten coming (well it is on the cover after all), such a cute name.
I am looking forward to reading more from Ms Sterling in the future, such a promising talent.
Heidi is excitable, talks far too much and loves pretty much everything (except Archie when he’s being a blockhead). Basil is calm, collected and says very little in words although he is very expressive. They have been roommates for a long time and know each other very very well. But Heidi wants more than just friendship from Basil, she loves him (even though he hates Christmas, who can possibly hate Christmas?)
I loved the dynamic between Heidi and Basil, even in book one you saw a few hints as to how much they care for each other. Heidi wouldn’t eat if it wasn’t for Basil making sure she got enough food in between talking. And the book reading, oh my swoon! Not only does he let her use him as a human pillow but he also helps her choose her books and even reads the same books as she does and listens and encourages her when she talks about them. I loved the fact they read Camilla Evergreen’s books (a huge favourite of mine and the author). I loved spotting references to books I had also read from CE. I have to say I saw the marriage kitten coming (well it is on the cover after all), such a cute name.
I am looking forward to reading more from Ms Sterling in the future, such a promising talent.
October 24, 2024
First off, if I had a friend as touchy-feely as Baz is I would 100% be obligated to marry him.
That said, this was a cute novella. I loved the dynamic between Heidi and Baz (and Archie *wink wink*).
The storyline was so cute, and the characters are so lovable, it should be criminal. This book is like a giant love letter to Camilla Evergreen and the awesome books that she writes.
If you're looking for a sign that you should drop whatever heavy book you're currently reading and treat yourself to this sweet treat of a book, this is it.
That said, this was a cute novella. I loved the dynamic between Heidi and Baz (and Archie *wink wink*).
The storyline was so cute, and the characters are so lovable, it should be criminal. This book is like a giant love letter to Camilla Evergreen and the awesome books that she writes.
If you're looking for a sign that you should drop whatever heavy book you're currently reading and treat yourself to this sweet treat of a book, this is it.
October 25, 2024
I am honestly in complete and utter awe of this books. It brought me to senseless tears countless times. I adored, ADORED!!! how Baz treated Heidi. It warmed me from the inside out. I cannot begin to fathom the perfection of this book. It hits so very close to home because not only do Heidi and I share a name, but we also share many personality traits. The love that she receives while she is authentically herself gives me hope for love! It is so beautifully written and I did in fact, highlight so much of the book. Pages.
Love! Love! Love!!! Need more!!! Can’t wait for Archie’s book!
Love! Love! Love!!! Need more!!! Can’t wait for Archie’s book!
October 25, 2024
Best friends to lovers, winter, Christmas, sleepovers, and lazy days reading together?! Sign me up!! I love reading Storm's work. Her style is so fun and engaging, and her works are masterpieces! Her second release is just as wonderful as her first and gets all the stars from me! These best friends know each other inside and out, one communicating with mostly looks, and the other with a tendency to ramble. Yet both understand each other in a way that fuels dreams. This book has all the swoon while keeping the door closed. Go. Read it now!! You will not be sorry!
May 31, 2025
So good I was literally obsessed I love her(Storm sterling) my favorite absolutely ate down like omgosh I loved it Basil Heidi Frank maybe Archie maybe I wish I saw Millie and the rest but that's okay cause I ate this book up in one sitting like in less than 4 hours, i I love her writing, I love her story telling if I were to write books she would be my inspiration this book ddefinitel. The fact that it's friends -best friends- to lovers make me love it a whole more pls keep giving ups such amazing books can't wait for Archie's book did I mention I loved it so funny, hot ,cute and amazing 🤭
October 24, 2024
In this second book by new author Storm Sterling I found myself giggling and excited to read a best friends book (not my normal favorite). The authors writing style is unique and kept me engaged and laughing throughout the entire book. I loved the way Basil and Heidi relate to each other, the care he takes for her, her love of books. Everything about this short book just made smile. Add it to your TBR now!
October 26, 2024
Loved every minute.
This book is great! Or in old-fashioned terms, It's a hoot! Similar in quirkiness to Camilla Evergreen's books and just as well-written. I ate this one up.
It contains no swears, no alcohol, and kissing only. Single POV.
Heidi is an assistant to Stryker from book 1: Oh no! My Kidnapper Is Hot. She is a Camilla Evergreen fan.
Basil Cole doesn't speak much but communicates with body and facial language.
This book is great! Or in old-fashioned terms, It's a hoot! Similar in quirkiness to Camilla Evergreen's books and just as well-written. I ate this one up.
It contains no swears, no alcohol, and kissing only. Single POV.
Heidi is an assistant to Stryker from book 1: Oh no! My Kidnapper Is Hot. She is a Camilla Evergreen fan.
Basil Cole doesn't speak much but communicates with body and facial language.
January 24, 2026
I want to live in their world
I am not normally a friends to lovers girly… but Storms books are always the exception! I love how cozy it is and how the characters interact with one another. Personally I relate to the FMC so much *spoiler* she is a yapper!! But in a cute and I see myself in her sort of way- don’t come into this book with bad vibes they will be destroyed by the sheer beauty of the MMC’s hair!
• I devoured this book in one sitting! It was delicious •
I am not normally a friends to lovers girly… but Storms books are always the exception! I love how cozy it is and how the characters interact with one another. Personally I relate to the FMC so much *spoiler* she is a yapper!! But in a cute and I see myself in her sort of way- don’t come into this book with bad vibes they will be destroyed by the sheer beauty of the MMC’s hair!
• I devoured this book in one sitting! It was delicious •
October 25, 2024
4.5 Stars Novella
I love Heidi. She and Baz are adorable.
I love this author’s humor.
10% is brilliant. Blushing happened more than once.
I was sad when this story ended. That’s all I have to say for now.
Check it out if you like humor, sweet moments, snow, and especially if you enjoy Camilla Evergreen vibe.
I love Heidi. She and Baz are adorable.
I love this author’s humor.
10% is brilliant. Blushing happened more than once.
I was sad when this story ended. That’s all I have to say for now.
Check it out if you like humor, sweet moments, snow, and especially if you enjoy Camilla Evergreen vibe.
October 25, 2024
This was my first Storm Sterling book, and I will definitely be going back to read the first book in this series! I loved this book, and if you love Camilla Evergreen books then you will too! Heidi and Basil are adorable, and I loved how the author wrote the miscommunication trope! Definitely recommend this book!
October 29, 2024
"Because while Heidi's truest, purest love is Christmas, mine has always been her."
???????
ummm wtff, excuse me
I thought you were an ex-assassin
swoon.
wtf.
should not have read this after having back-to-back dessert for 2 days,
pretty sure, I have 2 black teeth by now.
???????
ummm wtff, excuse me
I thought you were an ex-assassin
swoon.
wtf.
should not have read this after having back-to-back dessert for 2 days,
pretty sure, I have 2 black teeth by now.
November 20, 2024
Basil and Heidi
So incredibly cute!! It's clear from the very beginning that Basil is just as in love with Heidi as she is with him. How it's not clear to Heidi is a mystery. But it was a lot of fun getting us to the marriage kitten...a girl named Frank! I LOVE Storm's sense of humor!!!!
So incredibly cute!! It's clear from the very beginning that Basil is just as in love with Heidi as she is with him. How it's not clear to Heidi is a mystery. But it was a lot of fun getting us to the marriage kitten...a girl named Frank! I LOVE Storm's sense of humor!!!!
November 25, 2025
This style of book is not for everyone to be sure, but I could tell from the reader expectations and the authors note at the beginning alone that I was in the mood for the type of quirky silliness the author was serving up. Plus, I felt like reading something with a holiday vibe that was quick and this checked all boxes.
October 20, 2024
The characters in this series are so fun. 😆 I really enjoyed all the Christmas themed parts and can’t wait to get into cozy season. 🤩 I feel like it was a great length for a little one-sitting read. Looking forward to more books in this series.
October 25, 2024
Loved this one!! I loved Baz and Heidi together and the richness of their friendship. The sweet point in their relationship where they don’t need words to know what the other is saying💛. I loved Baz’s tender care of her too🫠
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