I have one job as a nanny—watch the kiddos while their parents attend a fancy celebrity wedding at a remote ski lodge. What I don’t expect is to go on a candy finding mission and run smack into famous country singer Hutton Calder—a scorching hot single dad. And my old hall pass.
When an early snowstorm strands us together, I find myself playing hostess to America's most eligible bachelor and his adorable five-year-old son. I try to play it cool, but there’s no ignoring the smokin’ hot chemistry between us as we bake dozens of sugar cookies to make his son’s holiday memorable. Hutton proves to be more than just his public persona—kind, thoughtful, and surprisingly down-to-earth. As we dig out from the snow, Hutton not only stays with me longer, he boosts my confidence and encourages my artistic dreams, all while charming the entire town of Snowhaven with his impromptu Santa appearances and involvement in the local Christmas festivities.
But as Hutton's presence in town draws unwanted attention, including from my nosy ex-husband, I have to navigate small-town gossip, growing feelings, and the fear of losing my heart to the man who has no plans on staying past Christmas. With Christmas approaching, I face my biggest challenge yet: convincing Hutton that the magic of small-town life is exactly what he and his son need.
Marika is a USA Today bestselling author writing steamy RomComs to make your heart explode and bring a smile to your face. She lives by the beach and posts a delightful number of hot lifeguard pictures.
Give me ALL THE SUGAR NOOKIES!! This story hooked from the very beginning, grabbed ahold of my heart, and didn’t let go until the very end. LOVED IT!
Marika Ray always delivers when it comes to RomComs. This well-written story had plenty of humor, tons of heart, and the perfect amount of spice.
A sexy, dirty-talkin’ cowboy/country singer and a beautiful, well-loved, small-town gal make the perfect pair in this heart-warming story. It made me feel all the emotions and gave me all the hearts in my eyes.
And let’s talk about sweet, little Henry. That boy was adorable and so precious and he sometimes stole the show.
I can’t recommend this book enough. If you love RomComs, you’ll want to read this book.
That was so stinking cute! It’s also sweet and spicy and inspiring, but the sheer overwhelming cuteness of it overloaded my system and that’s all I can focus on. I loved that this book spins out from the characters I fell in love with in “Grumpy Little Christmas” and returns us to all the quirky shenanigans of Snowhaven, Idaho, The Havenkirk Lodge and Snowmass. Bringing us another musician, another single dad, who needs to rediscover the magic of the holiday season. (This time both of those are the same person, though.) Hutton and Rae put me through all the emotions; I laughed, I wanted to cry, I thought about teaching my reader to fly. Their story’s low angst, but it still packed one heck of a punch. I adored the little family they built, and I can’t wait to see what the author has up her sleeve for our next visit to this unique little town. I received a complimentary advance copy of this book from the author.
Marika Ray is my go-to author for humorous romantic comedies with endearing characters, fun-filled storylines and happy endings that we all need. She has outdone herself with her latest heartwarming book “Sugar Nookie”, which is just in time for the holidays. I have to say that this book is now my new favorite holiday story. I fell in love with Rae, Hutton and precious little Henry the minute I began reading. The charming small town of Snowhaven was the perfect setting for our local girl Rae, to fall for the handsome country singer and his sweet son, Henry. I fell in love with Henry myself and I just wanted to be there as he took in all the special Christmas festivities while spending quality time with his dad. That was what this trip was all about; being together, making new friends, and for Hutton, prioritizing his life, once and for all.
Who would have thought that the magic of the season, a twinkling Christmas tree and delicious cookies would be enough to convince Hutton that fate had sent him to Snowhaven so he could finally have the family he always wanted? Rae was almost too nervous to talk to Hutton when she met him upon his arrival at the lodge. It didn’t take long for their conversations to last well into the night, as they shared their hopes, dreams and thoughts about the future. Hutton was welcomed by the townsfolk and Rae more than appreciated his help with the annual Christmas play. Hutton supported her desire to start painting again and before long they looked like any other family enjoying the holiday festivities, but what would happen when Hutton and Henry returned to California? Rae became weepy just thinking about it and didn’t know how she would go on without them. Hutton was also sad about his departure and he had to be strong for Henry, but he did have faith that the guy in the red suit would make all his Christmas wishes come true!
This book was so cute!! I really enjoyed the story, it had the right amount of drama, comedy, spice and romance to make it a really well rounded story.
This author’s original and creative stories never fail to delight me, and this Christmas story is now at the top of my holiday favorites list! Snowhaven and its residents stole my heart in Morgana and Aksel’s story (Grumpy Little Christmas), so you definitely should start with that one. You don’t have to, but you really should know that story first, for the best experience.
The genuine support and kindness between these characters was a highlight for me, and it made their relationships feel incredibly authentic. The banter and silly interactions of the Mayor, the police chief, and others kept me smiling, and the pages flipping. Rae is so easy to connect with, and Hutton and his adorable son Henry are easy to fall in love with.
Their genuine attraction was addicting, and I really couldn’t tear myself away from these pages, so I suggest planning your time. Their chemistry? Whew! So steamy good! Sizzled right off the pages!
It was fun to be back in Snowhaven, and escape to the remote Idaho town, if only in my mind. This is a heartwarming Christmas story that I highly recommend. Don’t wait - go one-click this one! You’ll be so glad you did.
Once you’re caught up here, I recommend choosing one of the other interesting and enjoyable series in her catalog of unforgettable work.
I was fortunate to receive a complimentary copy of this (thank you) and happily leave my review.
Marika Ray is a new author to me and ai am surprised I have not come across this author before.
I love single dad stories and Hutto.n Calder, a country singer and dad to five year old Henry and is my idea of a book boyfriend. Add in that it is centred around Christmas and thus was a win/win for me.
Rae is a breath of sunshine and I loved the connection that sparked between them. There is so much more to Hutton than he shows the world and I loved that he opened up with Rae. He also supported her and was protective and that made me fall for him more.
Snowhaven, sounds like a magical place to visit. Will shutting and Rae take a leap of faith and in doing so find lasting love?
This was my first book my Marika Ray and it was fantastic!♥️♥️
A lovely snow covered town, funny side characters, a cute little five year old boy, and a swoony couple make this a fun holiday read.
Country singer, Hutton Calder and nanny/artist Rae Dunn are charming, experts at banter and a little bit spicy. It was just a really nice, make you feel good book and I loved it 🩷
Every single time I think Marika Ray has outdone herself, she proves me wrong by writing another book! Her new release is Sugar Nookie...and whew...be still my beating heart! This story is an early Christmas present that is perfectly wrapped with a pretty red bow on top! Fans of the author will recognize the townsfolk...as well as the town of Snowhaven... from a previous book named Grumpy Little Christmas. If you haven't read it, I highly recommend reading it in order to familiarize yourself with the characters that reappear in Sugar Nookie. One thing I loved in Grumpy Little Christmas was the group texts between some of the townsfolk, and I was delighted to see that appear in Sugar Nookie as well! The group texts are guaranteed to make you laugh!
The story that unfolds is filled with witty banter and laughter, friendship & family, and love. Rae is a wonderful character and so down-to-Earth and relatable. She loves being a nanny, and it shows whenever she is dealing with children. Hutton will become everyone's book boyfriend. He literally is the entire package...talented, good-looking, a sweetheart and an amazing dad, etc. I honestly couldn't find any flaws with him. The chemistry between Rae and Hutton is off the charts and then some, and it's obvious from the start that they are perfect for one another! One thing I loved about this story is how Hutton gets Rae to believe in herself and her talent. He recognizes her talent immediately, and his encouragement is something she truly needs.
Then there is Henry...Hutton's little 5-year old boy. He steals every scene he is in, and he will also steal your heart! After all, he's behind the title of the book, Sugar Nookie! Spending the extended time with Henry in Snowhaven has made Hutton realize just how much he has missed out on, and it has him questioning his choices going forward.
I absolutely loved following the journey of Rae, Hutton, and Henry, as well as catching up with the familiar faces in town. Overall, Sugar Nookie is the perfect holiday story with all of the feels included! Just click on "buy now"... I promise you won't regret it!
I was given an ARC of Sugar Nookie from the author. My views are my own and are in no way influenced by anyone else.
**NOTE** Sugar Nookie takes place in the world created by the author in the previously released Grumpy Little Christmas. Although not necessary, I highly recommend reading it first to get the full experience of the people of Snowhaven. You won’t regret it!
Snowed-In Single Dad/Nanny Small Town Rom-Com Steamy Hallmark
I found my new favorite holiday rom-com in Sugar Nookie.
Hutton, a famous country singer, is visiting the small town of Snowhaven to sing at the wedding of a friend.
Rae is a local young woman who is serving as nanny for her friend’s children, as well as Hutton’s son, Henry, as they attend the wedding.
Rae finds herself snowed in at her home with Hutton, who also happens to be her Hall Pass, along with his 5-year-old little boy.
While introducing her two houseguests to the winter wonderland, the small town activities, and the joy of the holiday season, Rae finds herself falling for them both.
Over the holiday season, he realizes he is missing out on so much of his young son Henry’s life and maybe a little of his own.
While he allows himself to open up to Rae and show her the real man behind the image, she discovers there is much more to Hutton than what the public is allowed to see. Their chemistry and mutual respect are evident from the start. His appreciation and encouragement of her art has given her a new perspective on where her art can take her.
As the magic of the holiday season fades and reality settles in, can they find a way to maneuver the intricacies of her trying to make her art a full-time career while he contemplates how to slow down his fast-paced music career in order to live a more fulfilling life?
As usual, the author creates a world of characters that captivates you and has you rooting for them and their HEA. I enjoyed the appearances by familiar townsfolk from Grumpy Little Christmas!
The story is laced with laugh out loud, swoon worthy, steamy, relatable moments.
If you are looking for a fun, steamy, easy holiday romance to start off the season, pick up Sugar Nookie today!
#AgeGap #Celebrity #Holiday #SingleDad #SmallTown #ARC Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this steamy holiday romance ends in a sweet HEA. It is written as a standalone, however readers may find the most enjoyment from reading Aksel and Morgana’s story first. “Grumpy Little Christmas” is worth rereading, even if you have already read it. There are so many interesting characters in this small town. If you read both you will want to move to Snowhaven, Idaho, just like I do. Hutton (40) is a country music star who has his five-year-old son Henry for the holidays. He also has some discontent with the way his life is at the moment when he arrives in Snowhaven to sing at a friend’s wedding. Rae (28) is an artist who nannies and fills in a lot of odd jobs to pay the bills. Their meet-cute is beyond adorable. I giggled and giggled throughout this book. Hutton is a good man, and I love that he shows Rae a side of him that is different and real compared to his public persona. Rae is bright, energetic, and fun. She is also intuitive, and she and Hutton quickly form a bond different from anything they have had before. I loved their chemistry, and their exuberant and intimate moments were steamy and fun. I adored their tender moments of emotional connection. Little Henry was the most adorable five-year-old ever. I fell hard for the kiddo just like Rae did. Holiday spirit, small town shenanigans, and all the fun of Hutton, Henry, and Rae finding HOME in each other made this a holiday read you should not miss. I loved it. I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book.
I loved Rae and Hutton’s age gap, single dad, hall pass, close proximity, celebrity romance. This book had a wonderful mix of sweet, spicy, hilarity, and real life issues all wrapped up in deep emotions and Christmas fun. This is the best kind of Christmas romance - it made my heart so happy. Rae is a 28 year old mural artist who makes ends meet by nannying for famous people in small town Snowhaven, Idaho. She is also the director of the Nutcracker, the local Christmas pageant this year. Hutton is a 40 year old famous country music star and a single father to 5 year old Henry. He is in Snowhaven to attend a celebrity wedding. Without knowing who his dad is, Rae babysits Henry during the wedding. This is followed by a hilarious and adorkable meet cute, a snowed in with no power snuggle fest, and a spicy holiday fling. To get to their HEA and turn the holiday fling into forever will require baggage unpacking, heart opening, leaps of faith, and life course correction for both of them plus some Snowhaven meddling. This heartwarming and snort worthy story was well written and included engaging dialogue, three dimensional characters who grow, and a swoony captivating storyline as shown in sweet moments, spicy scenes, laughs, supportive friends, messy families, painful pasts, meddling townspeople, mild angst and all the love. 4.5 stars.
PS - Do yourself a favor and read Grumpy Little Christmas for more Snowhaven love and hilarity with Aksel and Morgana’s HEA.
This is such a fun book, and yet serious in parts, and I love Rae and Hutton. The single dad who’s realized he needs to reconsider his entire life and what success means, and the woman who’s stayed in her small town despite how uncomfortable her ex has gone out of his way to make her, are just meant for each other.
Hutton’s protectiveness is so charming. He’s not smothering, he just considers the right thing and sticks to it, be that defending Rae, dealing with Henry, or making career decisions that will impact fans and colleagues alike. Moral compasses are seriously attractive!
Rae may have sold herself short in her art, but she’s clearly got some amazing friends and a wonderful attitude toward life. She’s had disappointments, but she isn’t bitter – more inclined to savor each moment as she’s seen how fast life can turn.
The holiday aspect – Snowmass in the crazy town of Snowhaven – adds to the story and gives Rae a great way to introduce Hutton and Henry to how the holidays should look. And of course, our old friends are there as well. My only small complaints about this story are that Henry sounds and acts more like a 3 year old than a 5 year old, which kind of confused me? And the middle of the book felt a little draggy, like they’re happy…they’re happy…they’re happy…and then the hammer falls. However, the ending perks right up again and makes up for it, so overall a 4.5* read. I do love a Christmas story, and Marika’s these past few years have been a lot of fun.
Sugar Nookie is a wonderfully sweet, fun and entertaining small town rom-com that has a nice little sizzle to it. This story does interconnect with last year's holiday romance, Grumpy Little Christmas, so there is a lot of crossover in the characters and the way that they story is presented. While it's not absolutely necessary to read GLC before this book, I do say that it just adds to the experience and why not indulge in Marika's brand of holiday fun?!
This book is so fun to read. Hutton, Rae and Henry make the perfect little trio- even if Hutton tried to hold back and resist the temptation that is Rae. But an adorable bond between Rae and Henry softens Hutton's will while losing power in a snowstorm all but breaks it. Hutton may be a music superstar and a bit older than Rae but emotionally she seems to be on the same wavelength as him so it's no wonder that she easily falls for the absolutely swoon worthy view of Hutton being this charming hands on dad. Henry was a big sticking point in this relationship because of how much he adored Rae and she adored him back. Henry's energy and enthusiasm was infectious and adorable part of the story, though I will admit in my mind he is more of a 3 year old than the 5 year old that they say he is... I don't know why but I think it may be the way he talks it reminds me more of the kids I work with than a kid that is either in or about to be in kindergarten.
The insta-family that easily formed is just so adorable. I can't help but love the way that Hutton's affection and admiration bolstered Rae's confidence so that she was more willing to share her talents and wasn't cowering when faced with her ex-husband and his new wife, her ex-best friend. But most of all I love how partaking in these fun little Christmas traditions helped both Rae and Hutton start to heal and go after the things in life that they truly wanted- even if there's a slight speed bump in the process.
Overall a really fun and cute holiday romance that is sure to get you in the holiday spirit with dreams of sugar plums and sugar nookies dancing in your head!
Another Marika Ray RomCom that brought a smile to my face and tears to my eyes from laughing so much. I I had to get a drawback from her romcoms it would be the looks I get from my husband when I am constantly laughing out loud and interrupting his TV. Sugar Nookie is a small town romance that melted my heart from the start to the very last page. She gave us wonderful characters, a single nanny/artist, a single country singer who is on top of the charts and also has a young boy who is his entire world. Hutton got his son for the holidays and is headed to Texas so Henry, his son, can spend Christmas with his grandparents. With one stop along the way, Morgana & Aksel’s Ski Lodge to sing at his friend's wedding. It’s there he meets Rae. She is a divorced woman with no filter which often gets her in trouble. Hutton and Rae’s meeting is the perfect meet-cute, after all she has had a secret crush on the singer for years. When they get snowed in together with little Henry, the story takes off. Their banter is hilarious, little Henry will steal the show a time or two and two people come together who just might be able to teach each other to live a little and enjoy life.
If you haven’t read book 1 in the series, Grumpy Little Christmas, I strongly suggest you do. It’s not a must, but it will make Sugar Nookie a lot more enjoyable as the people overlap in each book. I Highly recommend them both for a fun, romantic, laugh out loud, Christmas Read.
“If he keeps calling me sugar, I might drop to the floor and propose marriage.”
Imagine going on a candy run for the kids you’re babysitting and then right smack to your old hall pass!
Rae gets a surprise of her life when she runs into Hutton, famous country singer and her celebrity crush. Even more surprised when she realizes that she’s babysitting his son. Hutton needed a break from his hectic life and spending the holidays in Snowhaven with his son Henry is exactly what he needed. What he didn’t expect is to meet Rae who seemed to ignite something inside him to start writing songs again. Getting snowed in with her and seeing how she is with Henry is making him rethink his future. Being in such close proximity, they started to have their little routines and it seems they just fit right with each other. But Hutton and Henry are in only in town temporarily, can Rae make Hutton realize that Snowhaven is where they belong?
Love Rae and Hutton’s banter and chemistry! I love how Hutton sees Rae’s talent and the way he supports her wholeheartedly. Rae is so great with Henry. She has the biggest heart and she is exactly who Hutton and Henry needed in their lives.
Snowhaven is such a cute town, love the townspeople message thread, hilarious! Gotta love the nosiness and the meddling!
This small town sweet and steamy Christmas romance will get you in the mood for some sugar nookies for sure! 😉
I will never look at a Christmas cookie the same way ever again! This book has it all – I started laughing in the first chapter (are false eyelashes alive???) and never stopped. What a ride! Of course, it wouldn’t be a Marika Ray story if it didn’t have humor, snark, sweetness, great characters, and a wonderful love (let’s call it a) pairing. And at times, it was smexy. Amazing!
Rae is such a wonderful human being. She has been beaten down by different people in her life and she believes that she is...less than. SO not true! Her friends try to make her see that but we all know that kind of re-validation only comes from within. And reading her “journey” is so touching. Hutton, even if he is a big country star, has his own issues with self-esteem. He also has his own awakening “journey” to go thru. And these two together? There story has it all!
And then there is Henry, Hutton’s young son. Oh. Em. Gee. This kid is adorable and he brings the right amount of heart to this story. Reading about two adults trying to have a little alone time with a smart as the dickens young ‘un? Hilarious! And the scenes with Henry are always touching and sweet and loving. I just loved this story. And of course, there is Sugar Nookie...
Sugar Nookie by Marika Ray is a delightful small-town Christmas romantic comedy that captures the essence of holiday cheer and heartfelt moments. The story revolves around Rae, Hutton, and little Henry, who form a charming trio that readers will quickly grow to love.
Ray's writing style is engaging and warm, making it easy to get lost in the festive atmosphere of the story. The characters are well-developed, each bringing their own unique quirks and charm to the narrative. Rae's journey of self-discovery amidst the backdrop of a small-town Christmas is both relatable and inspiring.
While the plot follows some familiar romantic comedy tropes, it does so with a refreshing twist that keeps the reader entertained. The interactions between characters are filled with humor and tenderness, making for a heartwarming read perfect for the holiday season.
However, some moments felt slightly predictable, which is why I’m giving it a solid four-star rating instead of five. Overall, Sugar Nookie is a sweet escape into a world of love and holiday spirit that will leave readers with a smile on their faces. If you're looking for a cozy read to get you in the Christmas spirit, this book is definitely worth picking up!
I can hardly believe that Sugar Nookie is my first book by Marika Ray, but it certainly won’t be my last! This delightful holiday romance is a perfect blend of fun and wit, featuring unforgettable characters and a heartwarming plot that captures the spirit of Christmas in a charming small town.
Hutton Calder is a standout hero—irresistibly sexy and an amazing dad to his adorable son, Henry. Rae Dun is a sweet dynamo, generously sharing her talents in the role of a nanny. Both characters have their own personal journeys of healing and tough decisions to navigate. Will they choose wisely? Can Rae convince Hutton that Snowhaven is a town worth calling home?
The supporting characters add an extra layer of joy, with mischievous friends who keep the story lively and engaging. If you’re curious about how it all unfolds, you won’t want to miss picking up a copy of Sugar Nookie!
Thank you, Ms. Ray, for kicking off my holiday reading with such a delightful bang. I can’t wait to dive into more of the earlier books of the small town Snowhaven!
“All of this nothing you seem to think you have…has been everything for me and Henry.”
Sugar Nookie was a delightful and charming story full of heartwarming moments and holiday cheer. I absolutely loved Rae, Hutton and little Henry. It was so much fun to be back in Snowhaven with two characters that were perfect for one another.
The banter and chemistry between Rae and Hutton was electric from their first meeting and I loved watching both Rae and Henry blossom under the attention that was bestowed upon them. Rae’s heart was so huge, but it was fragile due to her past and Hutton was able to build her up and give her the confidence to go for what she wanted.
Rae was just what Hutton needed in his life to help him face what would really make him happy and to start living for himself rather than others. These two grew so much throughout the story and I loved every minute. Sugar Nookie is the perfect holiday story that will give you all the feels along and is full of humor, heat, and heart.
Hutton is a famous country singer who headed to Snowhaven to sing a song for a friend. And to take a much needed vacation with his five year old son, Henry. He’s stressed and overwhelmed. And trying to find clarity for his life and what his future holds.
Rae is a struggling artist who is a nanny for the stars to pay her bills. She’s lonely and wants a family more than anything.
Nothing like a small town at Christmastime to bring about love, joy, and a sense of family. Experiencing the relationship between Rae and Henry. And Rae and Hutton was so wonderful and endearing. She was everything Hutton didn’t know he needed and he was everything Rae ever wanted.
Thanks to a crazy snow storm and an unexpected yes to staying in town for a few days longer. A sweet and happy relationship built. But what does their future hold? Navigating that caused me to shed some tears. But the pain was worth it because it comes together beautifully.
I received an ARC for free. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
I loved this fantastic romcom set in Snowhaven, Idaho and it was a double win being set around the Christmas holidays. If you read Grumpy Little Christmas, Aksel and Morgana’s book, then you’ve already met some of these characters. Hutton and Rae meet because Hutton agreed to help out a fellow country singer when her wedding reception singer had to cancel. Rae was there as a nanny, one of her jobs. Hutton and Rae are attracted to each other, after all he is her hall pass. Hutton and his son, Henry, drive Rae home. Power is out and they agree it would be best for Hutton and Henry to stay at Rae’s. Each of them have horrible exes, so of course they’re leery. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I hope you love this steamy holiday read as much as I do. Grab your copy and see what happens as Hutton and Rae grow closer.
I received an advanced reader copy of this book and this is my voluntary and honest review.
This is a delightfully fun holiday read. First off I can't get over how adorable the cover is. Then little Henry Hutton's son is going to steal your heart. He is such a cutie and the way he says words melted my heart. A snowstorm leads to Hutton spending the holiday season with Rae. I loved Rae so much. I wish she believed in her artistic talent like others do. Rae and Hutton also make this holiday a steamy one. They have great chemistry. One of my favorite parts of the book is the humor and banter between characters. I loved that we caught up with the characters from Grumpy Little Christmas. It made me so happy to see them living their HEA. This small town sure has won my heart. I loved all the Christmas themed activities and I watching through the joy in Henry, but especially Hutton experiencing it with his son. This is a perfect read to get into the holiday spirit. The epilogue was the perfect touch to end this book on.
I love a good single dad/nanny romance. Add in all the shenanigans of a small town, the Christmas holidays and a side of hot country music star and you have the makings of a Hallmark movie with all the bells and whistles and a side of steam, too!
The best part of SUGAR NOOKIE was the incredible main characters that I couldn’t help but fall in love with. Rae was a beautiful force of nature. Her big loving heart was bruised but not broken and the beautiful man who dropped into her life unexpectedly with his adorable son, gave her everything she needed to be happy. Hutton was looking for a new lease on life and his career. Needing to step up and become the father his little boy needed made him a better man and a sexy DILF, too! Little Henry, stole the show over and over again and made everything sweeter.
SUGAR NOOKIE is a keeper! I’m giving it the judy.ann.loves.books stamp of approval, TBR and Enjoy!
What I’m Starry-Eyed Over: 🤩 This is holiday romcom perfection with all its snowed-in playfulness, steamy goodness under the tree, and fabulous character growth. 🤩 I adore Rae, Hutton, and Henry—they have the best holiday fun together! 🤩 Small town holiday traditions. Snowhaven, Idaho is the cutest town with the most festive Main Street! 🤩 Famous country singer meets small town artist/nanny. 🤩 That meet-cute, when Hutton calls Rae sugar, and “You were my hall pass.” 🤩 I just love their conversations, so witty and fun. My mind is trying to hear it in duet narration. 🤩 Snowed in, with the power out and only one fireplace, and a son. The sexual tension is scrumptious! 🤩 Hilarious small town characters and shenanigans. 🤩Take me back to The Havenkirk Lodge—I adored all the fun in Grumpy Little Christmas!
What I’m Wishing/Dizzy About: 💫 Just repeating myself—my mind was trying to hear it in duet narration. 😜
Marika Ray’s Sugar Nookie is a delightful holiday romance that captures the magic of Christmas, small-town charm, and the unexpected spark of love. The story follows a nanny who finds herself in an unexpected situation when she meets famous country singer Hutton Calder at a remote ski lodge. With an early snowstorm stranding them together, the book takes readers on a warm and cozy journey filled with baking, festive cheer, and a touch of holiday magic.
One of the strengths of Sugar Nookie is how it explores the complexity of balancing personal dreams, small-town gossip, and budding romance. The snowy, small-town setting of Snowhaven serves as a perfect backdrop, with its cozy cafes, community spirit, and whimsical Christmas events. It makes readers long for their own slice of small-town holiday magic.
Though the book is lighthearted and fun, it also delves into deeper themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and taking risks in love. The story is heartwarming without being overly sweet, and it keeps readers hooked until the end, rooting for the characters to find their way to a happily-ever-after.
Sugar Nookie is a perfect read for anyone who loves holiday romances, charming single dads, and small-town settings where everyone knows everyone. It's sweet, engaging, and full of Christmas cheer—ideal for cozying up by the fireplace with a cup of hot cocoa.
“I’m living my dream, all because Santa brought about a snowstorm in a little town in Idaho.” Another adorable trip to Snowhaven, Idaho! Rae Dunn is a local artist with odd jobs to support her career. One job is being a nanny for the local celebrity. When an evening with her normal kids ends up including another celebrity’s kid everything changes.
Hutton Calder is in Snowhaven for a wedding with his son. He needs time away from the spotlight and just wants to reconnect with his son. What he doesn’t expect is to get snowed in with Rae and have his world turned upside down.
Rae and Hutton were perfect for each other. What started out as simply getting to know each other turned into so much more. They were supportive of each other and were a great addition to Snowhaven’s couples. Thank you @authormarikaray for the ARC! Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🔥: “I’d like to support my local artist too.”
I haven’t read much by Marika Ray and I’m really not sure why because everything I have read I have loved. I love the holiday season so as soon as I read the blurb for Sugar Nookie I was excited and the fact this is also a single dad story only added to my enjoyment. As soon as I picked this book up I was drawn in and there was no putting down until the final line was read. If you love single parents or Christmas romances you need to visit Snowhaven because this story is what Hallmark Movies are made from. This is single dad Hutton and Rae’s magical journey. So will Christmas make some magic and give this couple what they deserve……one click this gem of a read to find out. This book ticked all my boxes, I swooned, I smiled and I really felt like the holiday season had begun. A great read that I highly recommend.