Stuffing His Stocking

by Elyse Kelly

I thought I’d never see him again, but five years later we’re n@ked in front of the Christmas tree.

Dylan Kane is gorgeous. He’s smart and wealthy and used to be my st3p brother.

But it’s not like we were actual siblings or anything. Our parents were only married for a year. I didn’t think he’d even remember me until he showed up and saved me when I least expected it.

So, of course, I can’t let him spend the holidays alone. I have to invite him home with me for Christmas, don’t I?

That’s what I tell myself, hoping to make the next several days less awkward. Because why would a man like him—a man who could have any woman he chooses—want to spend Christmas with a girl he barely knows in a small town away from home?

Pfft, it’s stupid, right?

But tell that to my heart because it flutters every time he touches me. Butterflies take flight in my stomach when he whispers in my ear. Surely, this Greek god of a man isn’t attracted to me. Is he?

I guess there must be something between us because what we’re doing right now will definitely put us on the naughty list.

STUFFING HIS STOCKING is a light, fun, extra-swoony Christmas quickie! This slightly forbidden, off-limits, holiday romance is Santa-approved, and perfect to read by the glow of the Christmas tree!

Genres: Christmas, Holiday Romance, Romance, Holiday

140 pages, ebook

Published December 1, 2024

About the author

Just a true southern girl, reading and writing books, asking you to love me! My books are contemporary romances, all with HEAs and no cliffhangers!

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Reviews

[Lynn_G · Rating 5 out of 5]

We first meet 18 year old live and 24 year old Dylan at a super tense moment between father and son, with Liv and her mom as bystanders. Liv is infatuated with the very handsome Dylan, but their relationship is complicated: Dylan’s father was newly married to Liv’s mom. Shortly afterwards it crumbled when his philandering was uncovered, and everyone went their separate ways.

Five years later, a would be campus attack on Liv is thwarted by a menacing, towering man in work boots and carrying a hard hat. Liv immediately recognizes Dylan, now nearly thirty to her twenty three. Over coffee, they catch up and upon finding out Dylan plans to work through the holidays, Liv invites him to go to her mom’s house for the week.

Dylan has always been fond of Liv, but their age difference and their parents’ relationship meant she was completely off limits. As adults with no awkward ties to one another, Dylan has no reason not to pursue his feelings toward Liv. Physically it’s off the charts hot, and there’s not really a taboo element when they do act on it. He just has to convince her that he’s in it for the long haul.

This is a short, steamy shot of holiday romance that I gobbled up in part of an afternoon.

I was fortunate to have been furnished an advance reader copy from the author and bookfunnel, and I’m happy to share my honest impressions.

[Michelle Mastandrea · Rating 5 out of 5]

With Christmas vibes and a touch of forbidden spice, this was one steamy little read that certainly left me quite in the festive mood!


It's been a few years since ex step siblings Dylan and Liv have seen each other but when Liv finds herself in a dangerous situation, it's Dylan who swoops in to save the day. When Liv learns he's all alone for the holidays, she invites him to spend them with her and her mom seeing as they were once family not long ago. Only the more time they spend together, the spark between them begins to burn brighter and has them wanting to get more than a little naughty under the mistletoe.....

This was such a fun and delightfully irresistible read! Once again, Elyse never disappoints in her short and spicy novellas and I so enjoyed this one!
The chemistry between Dylan and Liv goes from sweet to smoldering and is so delightfully naughty. I just ate up each and every page!

Get this Christmas quickie on your TBR NOW! It's one holiday treat you won't want to miss!

[thebeespot72 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Author Elyse Kelly may have melted my little black Scrooge heart with her Christmas Novella, “Stuffing His Stocking.” I mean, the title alone drew me in. Elyse combines my love for the age gap and step-sibling trope and makes it into a 140-page novella.

The story is well plotted from the beginning as it establishes the dynamics of each character, particularly Dylan’s contentious relationship with his father and Dylan’s attraction to his step-sibling, Liv, with her ugly Christmas sweater and all. Since it was a novella, there was a timeline jump, which I always appreciated because of the characters' maturity that happens. But there’s no love or attraction lost.

Dylan and Liv’s steamy scenes are hot when they do get together. I also loved how Liv’s mother supported their relationship and loved Dylan throughout the story. It was a good book!

[Stacee Miller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I actually really like this story!! It’s so great and I love our mc’s Liv and Dylan!! I’m so glad they met again and were able to be together!!

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently picked up Stuffing His Stocking by Elyse Kelly, and I must say, it was a delightful holiday read that truly captured the spirit of the season. The story revolves around relatable characters who find themselves caught up in a whirlwind of festive mishaps and unexpected romance, making it the perfect escape into a cozy winter tale.

What I loved most about Kelly's writing is her engaging style. The dialogue is sharp and witty, and I found myself chuckling at the humorous moments sprinkled throughout the story. The pacing felt just right, allowing me to savor both the romantic tension and the comedic escapades that unfolded as the characters navigated their holiday chaos. The chemistry between the protagonists was palpable, and their journey toward understanding each other felt authentic and heartfelt.

While the plot does follow some familiar romantic tropes, I appreciated how Kelly infused it with fresh energy, keeping me invested in how everything would unfold. The festive setting added an extra layer of charm that made it even more enjoyable to read by the fire or during a holiday gathering.

That said, I did feel there were moments where some supporting characters could have been developed a bit more. A deeper exploration of their backstories would have added richness to the overall narrative. Still, this minor shortcoming didn’t significantly detract from my enjoyment of the book.

In conclusion, Stuffing His Stocking is a heartwarming read that left me feeling warm and fuzzy inside. It’s definitely a great addition to my holiday reading list, offering just the right mix of romance and cheer. I would recommend it to anyone looking for a light-hearted escape this season.

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This short, steamy holiday romance delivers all the feels, from long-buried tension to sizzling chemistry and a satisfying happily-ever-after.

We first meet Liv, an 18-year-old navigating family chaos, and Dylan, a brooding 24-year-old, during a heated argument between Dylan and his father. At the time, Dylan's father had just married Liv’s mom, but their messy relationship soon ended, leaving Dylan and Liv to go their separate ways. Fast forward five years: Liv, now 23 and in college, is rescued from a threatening encounter on campus by a rugged, towering man with work boots and a hard hat—none other than Dylan, now 29.

The unexpected reunion reignites their connection. Over coffee, they catch up, and when Liv learns Dylan plans to work through the holidays, she invites him to spend the week with her and her mom. Despite their history as step-siblings (no longer a factor now that their parents are divorced), their blossoming relationship has a clear path forward. Dylan, who always harbored fondness for Liv, is now free to pursue his feelings, and Liv is equally captivated.

Their chemistry is off the charts, with plenty of tender moments as they explore their shared feelings. Dylan is determined to prove his commitment to Liv, and their relationship evolves into a deep, passionate love. The story wraps up beautifully with the two finding happiness together, a sweet conclusion that includes mending some of the lingering family tensions.

This spicy, heartfelt romance is perfect for readers looking for a quick holiday escape filled with love, redemption, and a touch of heat. Highly recommend!

[Patti Barker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dylan and his father never really got along. Then his father married Carol. When Dylan came home he saw Liv but was to made at his father to stay and get to know her. Years later Liv was in college when some guys started picking on her. Just when things started to get worse someone stepped in and chased the guys away. Imagine her surprise when she saw the guy who stepped up being Dylan, her ex step brother. Their parents got divorced so actually they weren't step siblings. Dylan was shocked to see Liv. He asked her for coffee to catch up.
Liv was excited to at to see Dylan after all these years. Liv explained how we was going home for the holidays and since Dylan mentioned he wasn't doing anything she invited him to come with her. Her mom was excited to hear Dylan was coming home with Liv.
The more time we spent together they exploring the town, they started to realize that they both had feelings towards each other. When one kiss lead to more kissing and stuff lots more stuff. He gave her more stuffing than she ever wanted. They ended up getting together and in the end married. He still wasn't on good terms with his dad but things got better when he saw how happy he was with Liv.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rainbowlovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it! Thanks Elyse for getting the holiday season kicked off nice and spicy.

Ex step sibling instaromance (though both have wanted the other for years) Elyse brings the family disfunction (Dylan Dad is an idiot), spice and all things nice.
Five years pass from when their parents get divorced and a friendship is started between the two, they end up spending the holidays together along with Olivias mum and they finally give in to their wants and needs.
Elyse gives us a mild dose of angst thanks to the strained relationship between Dylan and his Dad, but on the flip side of that Olivia and her Mum are book mum and daughter goals.
The dual pov writing dives into Dylan and Olivia's minds and we can see more how their feelings have developed and strengthen over the years. The forbidden aspect of their relationship makes their steamy encounters feel a little bit naughtier in the best way( they are ex step siblings but share no blood relation, and didn't grow up together).
The holiday setting gives small town homey feel to the story, which makes you read the book in one sitting because you need to know what happens next.

Elyse has smashed it, with this one and I can't wait to read her next holiday instalove story.
5/5 stars

[Paige · Rating 5 out of 5]

A short and steamy, ex step-sibling Christmas novella with all the feel good vibes. They first met at 18 and 24, and while there was an attraction on both sides, they knew it was wrong and Dylan didn’t think he was worthy of love. No one had ever shown him love before, least of all his own parents, and watching his character form through outside influences was so satisfying to read. Liv and her mother Carol we’re just warm hearted, good women who radiated love. They saw through Dylan’s mask all those years ago to a little boy begging for attention from his father. When it came time to forgive, they had already forgave him and welcomed him with open arms. Dylan was protective, possessive and oh so dirty! Liv was loving, kind and protective of Dylan in her own way as well. The chemistry was explosive and the steamy scenes were well done. No cheating or OM/OW drama, no condom use, HEA and an epilogue that wraps everything up 9 months in the future. Can’t wait to read more from this author!

[Aliama · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dylan and Liv were step-siblings for less than a year when Dylan’s dad married Liv’s mom. Dylan and his dad had a strained relationship and the last time Dylan and Liv had seen each other it didn’t end well. Fast forward six years and Liv finds herself in a bad situations and who comes to her rescue but Dylan. Liv always had a thing for Dylan and when he ends up saving her she immediately invites him for Christmas with her mom. This is the start of something intense that neither can deny. Dylan is a real sweetheart. He rebelled in his younger years to get his father’s attention but deep down all he really wanted was a family. It’s always been just Liv and her mom. Now that they’ve included Dylan as one of the family, things just get better and better. A quick age-gap romance with sizzling heat. I received an ARC copy of this book.

[The Dragon Den Book Blog · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review of Stuffing His Stocking by Elyse Kelly
* * * * *
What does Liv want for Christmas? The answer is almost the same as her former older stepbrother Dylan. At each other's mercy.

Years after their parents divorce, Liv is rescued by Dylan and insists he join for the Christmas holidays. Dylan is not used to nurturing family care, or if anyone cares for him really. He always kept Liv at arm's length, knowing she was out of his reach and forbidden.
Now, his guard is starting to crumble.
The attraction builds and a romance blossoms, even when forces are working against them.

We have the a-hole father. We have nasty school girls. We have an awesome mom. We have a buttload of steaminess from our MCs. Brava on this holiday special from Elyse.

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

"Stuffing His Stocking" by Elyse Kelly is a quick and steamy Christmas romance that delivers exactly what you'd expect from its playful title. The story centers on the budding romance between former stepsiblings, adding a touch of taboo to the festive vibes. While the premise may raise eyebrows, Kelly handles the chemistry and emotional buildup with finesse, making their connection feel surprisingly natural and heartfelt.
The Christmas setting adds a cozy, magical backdrop to the heat of the story, blending holiday warmth with sizzling passion. At its core, it's about love finding, even in unexpected circumstances.
This novella is perfect for readers who enjoy fast-paced, steamy romances with a hint of forbidden allure. It’s a spicy and satisfying holiday escape!

[Jenia Tortora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liv and Dylan met years ago when his father married her mother. He was grown and out of the house so he never got to know her or her mother before their blip of a marriage ended. When he comes to her rescue they are surprised to see each other and reconnect. Dylan didn’t have a good childhood despite growing up wealthy and Liv had all the love a child could want so when she learns he will be alone for the holidays she invites him to go with her. There’s chemistry and these two have it in spades. As they explore their connection they fall in love with each other. It’s a sweet HEA and a bittersweet reminder that things don’t equate happiness in their heartfelt steamy holiday romance. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Catherine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Five years ago, Ivy’s Mum had a brief marriage with a wealthy man which ended when he cheated on her. A chance encounter reunites her with Dylan who was albeit briefly her Stepbrother. Once she finds out that he is spending Christmas on his own she invites him to spend it with her and her Mum. She knows that Dylan’s past behaviour was solely down to his cold Father and wanting to seek his approval. As they spend time together their feelings develop and friends become hot lovers. This book is another fantastic read by Elyse Kelly. I felt engaged with the characters and felt sorry for Dylan’s upbringing. With Ivy he finds the love and care that he so craved. Well written and highly recommended.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia and Dylan met five years ago when her mother married his father. There marriage did not even last a year, that one Christmas was the last time she saw him. Her rescues her five years later when a couple of students are harassing her when she is leaving the college late.

Dylan's parent were never really there for him. When she finds out he will be alone for the holiday, she asks him to come with her to spend Christmas with her and her mother. Olivia and Dylan have such chemistry, things heat up between them. Dylan finds with the Olivia and Carol, there things he missed in his life. He wants to keep Olivia, he hopes she is on the same page.

Has Dylan found his home? This is a steamy and romantic story but there is some angst with the issue with is father.

[Oriana Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Liv and Dylan met for the last time five years ago at a Christmas dinner at their parents house. Liv was 18.and Dylan 26. Dylan always had a bad relationship with his father, so his new stepsister and stepmom never had a real chance. Now five years later Dylan changed and Liv isn't his stepsister anymore. They run into each other by chance and now the time is finally right to get to know each other better. They fall hard and fast for each other and Dylan finally finds the family that he always yearned for and the woman of his dreams. Instalove, sweet, steamy, romantic and with a sweet HEA 😍😍😍😍
For safety lovers: they were with others after meeting, not openly told but implied. So technically not safe, but the sweetness of the story made it still awesome 🥰

[Fran · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dylan met Liz years ago when Liz's mother was married to his father for a few months. They never really knew each other as she was still in high school and he was on his own. But years later when Dylan rescues Liz from a couple of creeps he is asked to spend the holiday with Liz and her mother. This is a sweet read and so hot and steamy with a couple who decide they love each other and there is nothing anyone can do about it. I loved it, it made me happy while reading it. This is a feel good holiday read , so well written holiday and has a beautiful happy ever after. Perfect book to read for the holiday. I received an ARC copy and this is my honest review.

[Lisa Bing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great holiday romance that really had a wonderful feel-good vibe to it. Dylan and Liv are step sibs but really, they're not. Their parents were married for less than a year and weren't raised together. However, they had chemistry in the past and now, five years later, they still have it ;) I love that Liv's mother supported them as their relationship bloomed quickly into love. Sadly, Dylan's father remained a terrible parent and man. Liv and Dylan really brought out the heat in the naughtiest of ways and showed everyone that they were strongly united, leading them to a wonderful HEA. So fun and it's definitely hitting my re-read shelf :D

[Kathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is part of the Naughty with Spice holiday romance collection. Dylan and Liv used to be step siblings. But like for only a year and they barely shared the same house. It has been years since they were remotely connected. Now he is back in the picture. Liv can't let Dylan spend the holidays alone so she invites him to spend them with her. They have both been interested in the other but neither said anything. But now they are older and willing to take a chance. After all they were never really siblings. This book is a great spicy holiday read. I enjoyed it. I look forward to reading more books by Elyse and more in this collection.

[Nicolle Cherry · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dylan may have grown up rich, but he would've given anything for a father who spent time with him and loved him. When he runs into his father's ex wives daughter, Olivia, and she invites him to her mom's for Christmas, he's hesitant. He wasn't the best guy back then, and he's not sure that they'll give him another chance. This Christmas Dylan finds himself a family that cares and love.

Also was I the only one who hoped Mike and Carol ended up together too?.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Terra Oenning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wowsa this book is a fast insta love story and read with ex step brother who is older man younger woman taboo that will definitely have you engrossed from the beginning until the end. Dylan meets his new step sister for only a few minutes and years later he sees her again but this time there's no step between them but will his father try to destroy them? It's really a great story that is smoking hot and heartbreaking all in one.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[LA FITCH · Rating 5 out of 5]

Just loved this book. Despite the family issues between Dylan and his father this book is entertaining. Dylan is the son of a tech billionaire but does not have a good relationship with him, he meets Olivia again at the college campus where he works in construction. Olivia's mother used to be married to his father for a year. Their road to HEA starts when they go to her mother for Christmas. This is a must-read page-turner and don't forget to download the bonus chapter.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cat’s Stats
MMC/FMC- Dylan and Liv
Genre- Holiday Romance
Length 122 pages plus previews
Heat- this book is brought to you by the letter C, in honor of the words used to name the parts.
Safety? Y
Triggers- sex, language, complex coffee orders
Tropes- Stepbrother Relationship, Ho-Ho-Oh!, Dysfunctional Family FTW, Forced Proximity, Home for the Holidays, Secret Crush, New Adult, Forbidden Love, We’re Not Really Related
Mewsings
Elyse Kelly’s books are so hot they leave scorch marks!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lorna H. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dylan and Liv met years ago when their respective father and mother married... for about a minute. Because it was so long ago, Dylan barely remembers Liv - who is absolutely and immediately in lust with him. She winds up helping him out of a bad situation and they wind up helping each other out... in bed!

This is a hot and spicy holiday romance that had some good LOL moments for me; I will definitely be reading more Elyse Kelly books!.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Staci · Rating 4 out of 5]

Dylan and Olivia’s story has them being step-siblings for less than a year but only saw each other a few times. His father was a class A douche. But they meet years later when some guys at her college try to get rough with her. They were always attracted to each other but never did or said anything but now’s their chance. And when she takes him home to see her mom again they have a wonderful time. But his dad isn’t happy. But they get there hea.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[CASSIE STOCKDALE · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hello, forbidden. Nice to meet you. Complicated ex step-siblings relationship that results in an explosion. Dylan inadvertently swoops in to save Liv from a potentially scary situation. Both had been quietly admiring each other during their parents short and messy marriage. But as adults themselves now they've given themselves permission the explore relationship possibilities. This is a short and steamy, page turning read. I devoured this in just an evening. This is a great way to get started with the holiday season...bring on the festivities with a BANG!

[Carol Demmon · Rating 5 out of 5]

A sweet story. Liv has had feelings for Dylan, since her mother and his dad married, then divorced within a year. When she is rescued by Dylan, five years later, she uses it to get him to come home with her for Christmas. Dylan has had feelings for Liv and going home with her will present a chance to act on them. This was a great story of two people who have grown up and accept that what they have is forever. Love reading this story.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Manisha Robinson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was spicy sweet sexy sip your hot chocolate steamy hot holiday romance. Olivia mother and Dylan father was married for one year and they were step siblings but not for long. Olivia had a thing for Dylan it was love at first sight for her. Years later they met each other again and Olivia invited Dylan over to spend Christmas with her and her mother. Dylan was going through some things and being around Olivia brought his feelings back for her. This story is a great page turner with a good ending. I received this free ARC copy. I am voluntary my honest review.

[Idalia Helaena · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to start off by saying that I’ve always loved Elyse Kelly’s books, and “Stuffing His Stocking” was no exception!

This little holiday novella tells the tale of Dylan and Liv, who have a lot of obstacles to overcome on their path to being together.

Their love is definitely a little forbidden, but at the same time, I don’t think they were able to stop themselves from falling for each other.

Dylan was absolutely swoony, and I loved that Liv could hold her own when she needed to. All in all, this was an adorable, quick read!

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dylan and Liv were step-siblings for a short time when their parents were married. It's been years since they've seen each other and sparks are flying. When she invites him over for the Holidays things take a romantic turn. I loved Liv and Dylan for each other and was cheering them on from the start. The writing is well done, the characters are well developed and have intense chemistry. Stuffing His Stocking is a steamy, fun addition to the multi-author Naughty with Spice Romance series. I can't wait to read the rest of this fun series. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.