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Christmas With Kris Kringle
In a season filled with light, love is the brightest surprise.
Belen Goodwin, the event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall has one job this holiday to make Christmas festive and bright. But after a string of disastrous personal Christmases in her past, she’s no fan of the holiday cheer. With every twinkling light and carol, her grinch-like attitude only grows stronger.
Enter Kris Kringle, the mall’s new Santa, currently in the midst of saying “yes” to life’s adventures. He’s here to tick off a bucket-list experience, not expecting his biggest challenge yet – a Christmas grump in the form of the mall’s event planner. But sparks fly as the two work side by side, and the flirtation between them becomes harder to ignore.
Belen was just hoping to survive the season, but Kris makes her want something more than a casual fling. As the holidays draw near, she’ll have to decide if she’s ready to let go of the bah humbug and embrace the magic of Christmas, and the man who is determined to melt her frosty heart.
Belen Goodwin, the event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall has one job this holiday to make Christmas festive and bright. But after a string of disastrous personal Christmases in her past, she’s no fan of the holiday cheer. With every twinkling light and carol, her grinch-like attitude only grows stronger.
Enter Kris Kringle, the mall’s new Santa, currently in the midst of saying “yes” to life’s adventures. He’s here to tick off a bucket-list experience, not expecting his biggest challenge yet – a Christmas grump in the form of the mall’s event planner. But sparks fly as the two work side by side, and the flirtation between them becomes harder to ignore.
Belen was just hoping to survive the season, but Kris makes her want something more than a casual fling. As the holidays draw near, she’ll have to decide if she’s ready to let go of the bah humbug and embrace the magic of Christmas, and the man who is determined to melt her frosty heart.
224 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2024
45 people are currently reading
350 people want to read
About the author
Kasha Thompson
15 books369 followersKasha Thompson is a contemporary romance writer. She writes authentic love stories that examine the complexity of falling and staying in love.
Upcoming Novel LOVE YOU A LITTLE BIT releases on April 22.
Follow Kasha on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q6EvjR
Visit Kasha's website: https://authorkashathompson.my.canva....
Upcoming Novel LOVE YOU A LITTLE BIT releases on April 22.
Follow Kasha on Instagram: https://bit.ly/3q6EvjR
Visit Kasha's website: https://authorkashathompson.my.canva....
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
July 30, 2025
Belen x Kris
This book definitely made me smile! It had all the elements of a fun Christmas read...grief, laughter, love, healing, a change of heart about Christmas, and a super cute HEA.
Kris Kringle took on a gig as Santa 🎅🏿 at Pavilion Grand Mall, where he met Belen. Despite her dislike of the holiday season, Belen is the event coordinator in charge of Christmas at the mall. Working closely together, attraction blossomed, and Kris Kringle, aka Black Santa, did his best to show Belen that Christmas didn’t have to be the dreaded holiday she’d always hated. The little gestures he made to win her over had me swooning.
Despite carrying a heavy load of grief, Belen was an absolute hoot and completely uninhibited in the bedroom. She never missed an opportunity to take Kris to pound town! She fiercely loves her sister, Celeste, and their bond was one of the highlights of the story for me.
Belen is just a gem, so deserving of love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I loved the main characters and the side ones, especially Celeste. The love between her and Belen was heartwarming.
This is my third book by Kasha, and I must say...so far, so good!
4.8⭐️
This book definitely made me smile! It had all the elements of a fun Christmas read...grief, laughter, love, healing, a change of heart about Christmas, and a super cute HEA.
Kris Kringle took on a gig as Santa 🎅🏿 at Pavilion Grand Mall, where he met Belen. Despite her dislike of the holiday season, Belen is the event coordinator in charge of Christmas at the mall. Working closely together, attraction blossomed, and Kris Kringle, aka Black Santa, did his best to show Belen that Christmas didn’t have to be the dreaded holiday she’d always hated. The little gestures he made to win her over had me swooning.
Despite carrying a heavy load of grief, Belen was an absolute hoot and completely uninhibited in the bedroom. She never missed an opportunity to take Kris to pound town! She fiercely loves her sister, Celeste, and their bond was one of the highlights of the story for me.
Belen is just a gem, so deserving of love.
I thoroughly enjoyed this read. I loved the main characters and the side ones, especially Celeste. The love between her and Belen was heartwarming.
This is my third book by Kasha, and I must say...so far, so good!
4.8⭐️
November 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ 3.5🌶️ “Christmas With Kris Kringle” ARC Review
Release Date: November 5, 2024
Christmastime can bring about every emotion possible and wow…did Belen Goodwin take us for a ride! This one was giving Black Hallmark but on HBO because 🥵🌶️
Belen is a thirty-three year old mall event planner who can go without all the holiday cheer, despite her job.
The first Black mall Santa for Pavilion Grand Mall shows up and he is giving grown and sexy Santa. Right up Belen’s alley. But she can’t focus on that because Belen takes care of her sister Celeste who has Down syndrome but she is more than capable of taking care of herself, no matter what Belen thinks. Their relationship is so beautiful. I love their themed weeknights. Who doesn’t love man-pedi night while watching reruns of Girlfriends?!
Mr. Kris Kringle…yes…and yes, he is Black 😂 This man shows up and immediately makes an impression on Belen’s life. Which spikes her curiosity because she has labeled herself as a Fboy magnet.🥴
Kasha can write a man who is smitten with a woman and Kris was here for everything Belen. I loved their banter, spice, and date nights. But…sometimes we want to hold on to something so badly, we keep secrets. Omitting the truth is still a lie, right?
I hope yall get into this one this holiday season. It’s definitely going on my shelf! 🫶🏾📚🎄
✨Workplace Romance
✨Grumpy FMC/Sunshine MMC
✨Down Syndrome Representation
🎄What I Loved: The Storage Closet • Tubing • Celeste checking Belen • Canada 🇨🇦 • Gerrit and the dollhouse 😂
Release Date: November 5, 2024
Christmastime can bring about every emotion possible and wow…did Belen Goodwin take us for a ride! This one was giving Black Hallmark but on HBO because 🥵🌶️
Belen is a thirty-three year old mall event planner who can go without all the holiday cheer, despite her job.
The first Black mall Santa for Pavilion Grand Mall shows up and he is giving grown and sexy Santa. Right up Belen’s alley. But she can’t focus on that because Belen takes care of her sister Celeste who has Down syndrome but she is more than capable of taking care of herself, no matter what Belen thinks. Their relationship is so beautiful. I love their themed weeknights. Who doesn’t love man-pedi night while watching reruns of Girlfriends?!
Mr. Kris Kringle…yes…and yes, he is Black 😂 This man shows up and immediately makes an impression on Belen’s life. Which spikes her curiosity because she has labeled herself as a Fboy magnet.🥴
Kasha can write a man who is smitten with a woman and Kris was here for everything Belen. I loved their banter, spice, and date nights. But…sometimes we want to hold on to something so badly, we keep secrets. Omitting the truth is still a lie, right?
I hope yall get into this one this holiday season. It’s definitely going on my shelf! 🫶🏾📚🎄
✨Workplace Romance
✨Grumpy FMC/Sunshine MMC
✨Down Syndrome Representation
🎄What I Loved: The Storage Closet • Tubing • Celeste checking Belen • Canada 🇨🇦 • Gerrit and the dollhouse 😂
October 27, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
ARC Review
This is a heartwarming Christmas romance that centers on Belen Goodwin, an event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall and caregiver of her younger sister. After facing significant losses centered around Christmas, Belen has become a bit of a Grinch when it comes to the holiday season.
Things start to shift when she meets Kristoff "Kris" Kringle, the new and handsome mall Santa. As their connection grows, Belen finds herself torn between holding onto her grief and opening up to the joy-and love-that Christmas can bring.
I enjoyed watching Belen's journey. We see how hard it is to heal while trying to keep traditions alive. With the help of Kris, Belen slowly begins to reconnect with what the holidays mean.
Being a lover of love, I really appreciated Kris’s character and how he wasn’t afraid to make his feelings and intentions known from the start. I love how he understands that Belen and her sister Celeste are a package deal. His willingness to include Celeste in their budding relationship made it clear that he was everything Belen didn’t know she needed!
Overall, I enjoyed this holiday read and can’t wait to read more from her collection.
If you're in the mood for a feel-good holiday read, definitely check this one out!
ARC Review
This is a heartwarming Christmas romance that centers on Belen Goodwin, an event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall and caregiver of her younger sister. After facing significant losses centered around Christmas, Belen has become a bit of a Grinch when it comes to the holiday season.
Things start to shift when she meets Kristoff "Kris" Kringle, the new and handsome mall Santa. As their connection grows, Belen finds herself torn between holding onto her grief and opening up to the joy-and love-that Christmas can bring.
I enjoyed watching Belen's journey. We see how hard it is to heal while trying to keep traditions alive. With the help of Kris, Belen slowly begins to reconnect with what the holidays mean.
Being a lover of love, I really appreciated Kris’s character and how he wasn’t afraid to make his feelings and intentions known from the start. I love how he understands that Belen and her sister Celeste are a package deal. His willingness to include Celeste in their budding relationship made it clear that he was everything Belen didn’t know she needed!
Overall, I enjoyed this holiday read and can’t wait to read more from her collection.
If you're in the mood for a feel-good holiday read, definitely check this one out!
December 17, 2025
Why didn't anyone tell me that Kasha Thompson was hilarious?! There were so many laugh out loud moments in this book!
I admired the soft/gentle approach Kris took when pursuing Belen. He really wanted to help her believe in the magic of Christmas again.
The bond between Belen and her sister Celeste was incredibly special. Kudos to the author for handling Celeste's character with such care.
This was a beautiful and heartwarming holiday romance. The christmas vibes were perfectly incorporated within the story.
I highly recommended this one! ❤️
I admired the soft/gentle approach Kris took when pursuing Belen. He really wanted to help her believe in the magic of Christmas again.
The bond between Belen and her sister Celeste was incredibly special. Kudos to the author for handling Celeste's character with such care.
This was a beautiful and heartwarming holiday romance. The christmas vibes were perfectly incorporated within the story.
I highly recommended this one! ❤️
November 19, 2024
This is the story that has catapulted me into Christmas. It was so cute and sweet. Ya'll just read the damn book.
October 21, 2024
This was such a cute Christmas romance. I love the main characters and both of their back stories and families. This is a well rounded rounded romance and it’s definitely put me in the holiday spirit.
December 25, 2025
Kris Kringle for the win!!!
Kristoff Kringle is a mall Santa for the holiday season. Belen is the mall event planner. Their first encounter left her annoyed with the attractive St. Nicolas!
This book gave all the perfect holiday vibes!
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Causal Hookup
- Tech Mogul
Content:
MH Rep: Grief and Loss
Disability Rep: Down Syndrome
Caregiver Responsiblilty
Such a fantastic holiday read!
Kristoff Kringle is a mall Santa for the holiday season. Belen is the mall event planner. Their first encounter left her annoyed with the attractive St. Nicolas!
This book gave all the perfect holiday vibes!
Tropes:
- Workplace Romance
- Causal Hookup
- Tech Mogul
Content:
MH Rep: Grief and Loss
Disability Rep: Down Syndrome
Caregiver Responsiblilty
Such a fantastic holiday read!
December 22, 2024
Christmas 🎄
This was very enjoyable read. It had the right steam and plot. You could take out [not that you should] and have a very cute Christmas romance. The only gripe is third act break up . I just think that it didn't need it.
This was very enjoyable read. It had the right steam and plot. You could take out [not that you should] and have a very cute Christmas romance. The only gripe is third act break up . I just think that it didn't need it.
December 27, 2024
I enjoyed reading this book and would definitely recommend it. It was a sweet Christmas romance with the right amount of spice.
And I loved the shout out Kasha Thompson gave to a character from one of her other books.
And I loved the shout out Kasha Thompson gave to a character from one of her other books.
November 13, 2024
RomCom
This was the perfect romcom. I laughed so hard at this book. It was cute and fluffy. Perfect holiday read
This was the perfect romcom. I laughed so hard at this book. It was cute and fluffy. Perfect holiday read
December 16, 2024
I loved it. This was super cute and romantic. I love this time of the year and reading a book that captures that will always win me over.
October 19, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
If it’s one thing Kasha Thompson can do and it’s write a good story and “Christmas with Kris Kringle” adds another 5 star read to her catalog.
In this we meet Belen Goodwin who most would consider a Christmas grouch due to very personal reasons works as an event coordinator during this holiday season.
Kristoff “Kris” Kringle is semi retired from the tech world and has been exploring new adventures in life which included dressing up as a mall Santa for Christmas.
What started off as just simple flirting between the two deepened into something they didn’t know they both needed.
My overall thoughts on this are this packed so much emotion, understanding, and most of all love. The themes in this book were handled with such care and you can really tell Kasha put time and effort into research for this. The spicy scenes were off the actual charts. Even though it’s not quite Christmas time just yet this definitely put me in the spirit for it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
If it’s one thing Kasha Thompson can do and it’s write a good story and “Christmas with Kris Kringle” adds another 5 star read to her catalog.
In this we meet Belen Goodwin who most would consider a Christmas grouch due to very personal reasons works as an event coordinator during this holiday season.
Kristoff “Kris” Kringle is semi retired from the tech world and has been exploring new adventures in life which included dressing up as a mall Santa for Christmas.
What started off as just simple flirting between the two deepened into something they didn’t know they both needed.
My overall thoughts on this are this packed so much emotion, understanding, and most of all love. The themes in this book were handled with such care and you can really tell Kasha put time and effort into research for this. The spicy scenes were off the actual charts. Even though it’s not quite Christmas time just yet this definitely put me in the spirit for it.
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 3, 2024
Overall Rating: 5.0 / 5.0
Spice Level: 3.5 / 5.0
I just finished 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was an entertaining, fun, cute, sweet, and easy-to-read Christmas romantic comedy with great characters!
In this story we meet Belen Goodwin, an event coordinator at the Pavilion Grand Mall tasked with bringing Christmas joy to the mall patrons. Belen is great at her job but Christmas has never been her favorite holiday. After years of unfortunate Christmases, Belen has become a scrooge who is anti-Christmas; making her a true Christmas grump.
Enters Kristoff "Kris" Kringle who is hired to play Santa at the mall. He is the opposite of Belen in every way: "Santa is [his] name is brining joy and happiness to kids' faces is [his] game." So what happens when these two are forced to work together? Will Kris be able to help bring back Belen's Christmas joy and turn this Christmas grump into a lover of all things Christmas?
𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 is not just a nice Christmas romantic comedy. It is also a story of love, loss, grief, and coming back from a place of darkness, with the help of unconditional love and kindness. The author did an excellent job with Kris and Belen's story. Though this is more of a fast-paced story, I came out of it with a full understanding of who the characters were. They were fully developed, dynamic characters that I just fell in love with!
Through my reading, I was able to understand why Belen was the way she was and why she was a Christmas grump. The author did a great job with explaining her back story. I also loved the Down Syndrome rep in this book. It was done with such care and I just fell in love with Celeste and the way her sister stood up for her and protected her and made sure everyone in her life knew that they were a packaged deal! I just loved it.
What can I say about Kris! He was such a sweet, cinnamon roll MMC, who knew what he wanted and went after it! I loved the way he cared for, loved, and accepted Belen for who she was, while at the same time, helping her see that there is more to life than loss and grief and that it was ok to be happy again and to enjoy the Christmas season. And those dates that he planned...my goodness, I could just swoon! He listened to her and did so much to make her life easier and to make her happy. Sidenote: I loved the last gift he gave to her when they went to his parents' for Christmas (just a thoughtful man); and the fact that he accepted and loved Celeste and thought of Celeste and her independence while making sure that Belen could still be close by to care for her (when you read the book you will understand), this part touched my heart so much. Kris really embodied the true nature of Christmas and I just loved his character! I also have to say I loved the found family elements of this story as it relates to Belen & Celeste getting the family and happiness they deserved after experiencing so much loss and pain over the years.
With likable, funny, and realistic characters; a page-turner plot; steamy spicy love scenes; great world-building, and a HEA ending, I have zero complaints about 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞! It is the perfect Christmas romance for those looking to get into the Christmas spirit and I highly recommend this book.
🆈🅾🆄 🆆🅸🅻🅻 🅻🅾🆅🅴 🆃🅷🅸🆂 🅱🅾🅾🅺 🅸🅵 🆈🅾🆄 🅻🅸🅺🅴:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎅🏾 Black Love
🎄 Down Syndrome Rep
🎅🏾 At Work Romance
🎄 Winter Fling to Love
🎅🏾 Reverse Grumpy Sunshine (She's a Scrooge)
🎄 Storage Room Spicy Scenes
🎅🏾 Pretend / Fake Marriage
🎄 Cinnamon Roll MMC (He Makes You Swoon)
🎅🏾 Found Family
🎄 Romantic Comedy
🎅🏾 HEA
🅼🆈 🅵🅰🆅🅾🆁🅸🆃🅴 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴🆂:
❤️ "Santa's my name and brining joy and happiness to kids' faces is my game."
❤️ "I'd prefer it if there were no sleigh bells ringing, no chestnuts roasting, and no dashing through the motherf*ing snow. Was there an anti-Christmas Christmas club? Because if there were, i would be president, treasurer , and secretary. Our motto would be, Ho, Ho, No."
❤️ "I would eagerly open my eyes each morning if it meant her beautiful face waiting for me on the other side."
❤️ "If something felt right, waiting around to confirm what you already knew wasn't going to change anything."
❤️ "We can't protect people from life; we can only give them the tools to navigate through it."
❤️ "I woke up and thought how can I make Belen smile. And then I landed on this."
❤️ "I've never met a woman quite like you. You have an undeniable energy that surrounds you. You are a source of light that makes every moment brighter and far more intense. And you are the embodiment of goodness."
❤️ "You make me want to plant roots. Roots so deeply interwoven into the soil it would take an act of God to uproot them."
❤️ "I'm not settling, I'm making a choice. Instead of choosing me, I'm choosing us, because us...makes me happy."
❤️ "You love me in a way I didn't know was possible. In a way I didn't even know I needed. You and our home are my safe place."
Spice Level: 3.5 / 5.0
I just finished 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 and I must say that I thoroughly enjoyed it! It was an entertaining, fun, cute, sweet, and easy-to-read Christmas romantic comedy with great characters!
In this story we meet Belen Goodwin, an event coordinator at the Pavilion Grand Mall tasked with bringing Christmas joy to the mall patrons. Belen is great at her job but Christmas has never been her favorite holiday. After years of unfortunate Christmases, Belen has become a scrooge who is anti-Christmas; making her a true Christmas grump.
Enters Kristoff "Kris" Kringle who is hired to play Santa at the mall. He is the opposite of Belen in every way: "Santa is [his] name is brining joy and happiness to kids' faces is [his] game." So what happens when these two are forced to work together? Will Kris be able to help bring back Belen's Christmas joy and turn this Christmas grump into a lover of all things Christmas?
𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞 is not just a nice Christmas romantic comedy. It is also a story of love, loss, grief, and coming back from a place of darkness, with the help of unconditional love and kindness. The author did an excellent job with Kris and Belen's story. Though this is more of a fast-paced story, I came out of it with a full understanding of who the characters were. They were fully developed, dynamic characters that I just fell in love with!
Through my reading, I was able to understand why Belen was the way she was and why she was a Christmas grump. The author did a great job with explaining her back story. I also loved the Down Syndrome rep in this book. It was done with such care and I just fell in love with Celeste and the way her sister stood up for her and protected her and made sure everyone in her life knew that they were a packaged deal! I just loved it.
What can I say about Kris! He was such a sweet, cinnamon roll MMC, who knew what he wanted and went after it! I loved the way he cared for, loved, and accepted Belen for who she was, while at the same time, helping her see that there is more to life than loss and grief and that it was ok to be happy again and to enjoy the Christmas season. And those dates that he planned...my goodness, I could just swoon! He listened to her and did so much to make her life easier and to make her happy. Sidenote: I loved the last gift he gave to her when they went to his parents' for Christmas (just a thoughtful man); and the fact that he accepted and loved Celeste and thought of Celeste and her independence while making sure that Belen could still be close by to care for her (when you read the book you will understand), this part touched my heart so much. Kris really embodied the true nature of Christmas and I just loved his character! I also have to say I loved the found family elements of this story as it relates to Belen & Celeste getting the family and happiness they deserved after experiencing so much loss and pain over the years.
With likable, funny, and realistic characters; a page-turner plot; steamy spicy love scenes; great world-building, and a HEA ending, I have zero complaints about 𝐂𝐡𝐫𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐦𝐚𝐬 𝐖𝐢𝐭𝐡 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐬 𝐊𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐥𝐞! It is the perfect Christmas romance for those looking to get into the Christmas spirit and I highly recommend this book.
🆈🅾🆄 🆆🅸🅻🅻 🅻🅾🆅🅴 🆃🅷🅸🆂 🅱🅾🅾🅺 🅸🅵 🆈🅾🆄 🅻🅸🅺🅴:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎅🏾 Black Love
🎄 Down Syndrome Rep
🎅🏾 At Work Romance
🎄 Winter Fling to Love
🎅🏾 Reverse Grumpy Sunshine (She's a Scrooge)
🎄 Storage Room Spicy Scenes
🎅🏾 Pretend / Fake Marriage
🎄 Cinnamon Roll MMC (He Makes You Swoon)
🎅🏾 Found Family
🎄 Romantic Comedy
🎅🏾 HEA
🅼🆈 🅵🅰🆅🅾🆁🅸🆃🅴 🆀🆄🅾🆃🅴🆂:
❤️ "Santa's my name and brining joy and happiness to kids' faces is my game."
❤️ "I'd prefer it if there were no sleigh bells ringing, no chestnuts roasting, and no dashing through the motherf*ing snow. Was there an anti-Christmas Christmas club? Because if there were, i would be president, treasurer , and secretary. Our motto would be, Ho, Ho, No."
❤️ "I would eagerly open my eyes each morning if it meant her beautiful face waiting for me on the other side."
❤️ "If something felt right, waiting around to confirm what you already knew wasn't going to change anything."
❤️ "We can't protect people from life; we can only give them the tools to navigate through it."
❤️ "I woke up and thought how can I make Belen smile. And then I landed on this."
❤️ "I've never met a woman quite like you. You have an undeniable energy that surrounds you. You are a source of light that makes every moment brighter and far more intense. And you are the embodiment of goodness."
❤️ "You make me want to plant roots. Roots so deeply interwoven into the soil it would take an act of God to uproot them."
❤️ "I'm not settling, I'm making a choice. Instead of choosing me, I'm choosing us, because us...makes me happy."
❤️ "You love me in a way I didn't know was possible. In a way I didn't even know I needed. You and our home are my safe place."
December 3, 2024
If you haven't added this book to your December TBR, don't lag.
If you like books where the authors provide playlists, Christmas With Kris Kringle checks this box .
The playlist is found at the beginning of this book and each chapter's title is based on the same list.
This is my favourite Kasha Thompson book so far. The banter between Belen Goodwin and Kristoff Kringle at the start of the book was a good indication it would be a good story. I laughed so many times while reading this and I'm still giggling as I write this review.
The story unfolds in alternating chapters and is injected with good humour and some spice as the main characters get to know each other. It's not some sappy love story but rather one that has relatable situations as all of the author's books do.
Belen Goodwin is a 33-year-old event coordinator of a Minnesota mall. Christmas is not her favourite holiday but she has to participate in it because, work. She doesn't have good memories of this season but she puts on a brave face and grimaces because it is necessary.
After persuading her bosses to hire their first black Santa, they do. Cue Mr. Kristoff Kringle, who will make her body and mind tingle. He is tall, dark and fine, like real fine, and made Belen remark (to herself) that the women who see him at the mall will probably want to have to him under their trees.
Thirty-six year-old Kris, as he prefers to be called, has never played Santa before but as it was on his bucket list so he signed up for the gig. He's well read- he knew the origins of Santa much to Belen's surprise - well spoken and answers her questions as easily as she asks them.
For example, Belen: "What kind of name is Kris Kringle?"
Kris: "It's the kind of name that is given to you when your parents lack consideration of real-world implications."
He has some pretty good insights into this whole Santa schtick too. I mean honestly, how did Santa become this omnipresent dude who keeps tabs on children all over the world to know if they've been good or bad and then has a workshop full of elves that can make toys including the popular, in demand contemporary ones and deliver them all in one night? Like really?
Please note, despite this view I will watch every Christmas movie including those with Santa like I'm a child. LOL
Kris is on a micro-retirement and doesn't provide many details about his life and I understand his reasons. What I didn't get was Belen's response to it when she found out. It's not like he's a serial killer, or involved in some other untoward behaviour. I understand that she doesn't like being lied to but he had his reasons for not telling her.
One of the central characters in the story is Celeste, Belen's 30-year-old sister. I loved that Celeste who has Down Syndrome, is a straight talker who knows what she likes and doesn't and is not afraid to try new things. Belen could learn a lot from her, instead of trying to shield her from the world.
I understood Belen's caution about bringing Kris into her sister's life but in the end, Celeste showed her that if you want something, or someone, you shouldn't be afraid to go after it.
Beyond the obvious themes of love, romance, happily ever after, and Christmas, lies a story of loss and grief and how "the most wonderful time of the year" is not the same for everyone. For some people like Belen, it is a poignant memory of losing her parents and going through the motions for her sister Celeste, who, though was impacted by the same loss, didn't dwell on it.
We must all be mindful and respectful of other people's feelings during the holidays and remember they could be triggered by the joy. We should avoid telling them to "get over" their emotions but help them work through it, or leave them be.
So, as we celebrate Christmas and all that it entails, give this one a go if you're in the mood for family, lights, friendships and love.
If you like books where the authors provide playlists, Christmas With Kris Kringle checks this box .
The playlist is found at the beginning of this book and each chapter's title is based on the same list.
This is my favourite Kasha Thompson book so far. The banter between Belen Goodwin and Kristoff Kringle at the start of the book was a good indication it would be a good story. I laughed so many times while reading this and I'm still giggling as I write this review.
The story unfolds in alternating chapters and is injected with good humour and some spice as the main characters get to know each other. It's not some sappy love story but rather one that has relatable situations as all of the author's books do.
Belen Goodwin is a 33-year-old event coordinator of a Minnesota mall. Christmas is not her favourite holiday but she has to participate in it because, work. She doesn't have good memories of this season but she puts on a brave face and grimaces because it is necessary.
After persuading her bosses to hire their first black Santa, they do. Cue Mr. Kristoff Kringle, who will make her body and mind tingle. He is tall, dark and fine, like real fine, and made Belen remark (to herself) that the women who see him at the mall will probably want to have to him under their trees.
Thirty-six year-old Kris, as he prefers to be called, has never played Santa before but as it was on his bucket list so he signed up for the gig. He's well read- he knew the origins of Santa much to Belen's surprise - well spoken and answers her questions as easily as she asks them.
For example, Belen: "What kind of name is Kris Kringle?"
Kris: "It's the kind of name that is given to you when your parents lack consideration of real-world implications."
He has some pretty good insights into this whole Santa schtick too. I mean honestly, how did Santa become this omnipresent dude who keeps tabs on children all over the world to know if they've been good or bad and then has a workshop full of elves that can make toys including the popular, in demand contemporary ones and deliver them all in one night? Like really?
Please note, despite this view I will watch every Christmas movie including those with Santa like I'm a child. LOL
Kris is on a micro-retirement and doesn't provide many details about his life and I understand his reasons. What I didn't get was Belen's response to it when she found out. It's not like he's a serial killer, or involved in some other untoward behaviour. I understand that she doesn't like being lied to but he had his reasons for not telling her.
One of the central characters in the story is Celeste, Belen's 30-year-old sister. I loved that Celeste who has Down Syndrome, is a straight talker who knows what she likes and doesn't and is not afraid to try new things. Belen could learn a lot from her, instead of trying to shield her from the world.
I understood Belen's caution about bringing Kris into her sister's life but in the end, Celeste showed her that if you want something, or someone, you shouldn't be afraid to go after it.
Beyond the obvious themes of love, romance, happily ever after, and Christmas, lies a story of loss and grief and how "the most wonderful time of the year" is not the same for everyone. For some people like Belen, it is a poignant memory of losing her parents and going through the motions for her sister Celeste, who, though was impacted by the same loss, didn't dwell on it.
We must all be mindful and respectful of other people's feelings during the holidays and remember they could be triggered by the joy. We should avoid telling them to "get over" their emotions but help them work through it, or leave them be.
So, as we celebrate Christmas and all that it entails, give this one a go if you're in the mood for family, lights, friendships and love.
November 6, 2024
Y’all, this book is the holiday read I didn’t know I needed! Belen Goodwin is *so* over Christmas – like, seriously done with it. She’s the mall’s event planner, and while everyone else is singing carols and decking the halls, she’s just trying to make it through the season without getting sucked into the holiday cheer. Enter Kris, the mall Santa, who’s all about living in the moment and spreading joy, and let’s just say, he’s got his work cut out for him!
The chapter titles alone had me smiling – each one is a Christmas song, setting the mood perfectly. And Kris? This man is so patient and persistent, and their chemistry is fire. Belen keeps throwing up her walls, but Kris just keeps showing up, chipping away at that tough exterior. And let me tell you, that runaway deer scene?
But it’s Belen’s connection with her sister Celeste that really brings it all together. After losing both their parents, Belen’s super protective of Celeste, who has Down syndrome. Their pasta nights and little rituals show just how much Belen has put into making sure Celeste feels safe and loved. That big sister love really hit home for me.
So if you want a romance that’ll give you all the cozy feels, plus a little family love and laugh-out-loud moments, pick this one up! Perfect for anyone who needs a little holiday magic with a side of heart.
The chapter titles alone had me smiling – each one is a Christmas song, setting the mood perfectly. And Kris? This man is so patient and persistent, and their chemistry is fire. Belen keeps throwing up her walls, but Kris just keeps showing up, chipping away at that tough exterior. And let me tell you, that runaway deer scene?
But it’s Belen’s connection with her sister Celeste that really brings it all together. After losing both their parents, Belen’s super protective of Celeste, who has Down syndrome. Their pasta nights and little rituals show just how much Belen has put into making sure Celeste feels safe and loved. That big sister love really hit home for me.
So if you want a romance that’ll give you all the cozy feels, plus a little family love and laugh-out-loud moments, pick this one up! Perfect for anyone who needs a little holiday magic with a side of heart.
November 12, 2024
This story was hilarious. I was not expecting to laugh as much as I did. I know Kasha is known for having a comedic flair in her stories and when I am looking for a Rom-Com vibe by a black author- she is my go-to.
Not only will you laugh, but she will also give you a meaningful storyline that will melt your heart. This story is Christmas themed, however it can fit into any time of the year. Kasha has a way of incorporating life lessons and real-life scenarios into her writing that will have you all in your feelings. I can relate to so many things in this story relating to loss, and this is why I love her writing.
Belen Goodwin is a perfectionist who is an event planner for the local mall in charge of holiday events. Kristoff Kringle aka Kris Kringle is the newly hired mall Santa. First of all, he is tall and fine. Like, fine fine. How do I know this? I just do. The conversation from their initial meeting was a set up for the comedic banter between the two and the start of a hilarious journey.
Celeste was my heart. She is the sister of Belen and has a disability but the character that she has- Amazing. I loved how she was written and loved her no filter attitude. She will tell you like it is, and you have no other choice but to hear it. No time off for Celeste. I just loved her.
The Kringle family was a handful, but I loved their dynamics for sure.
Aiden was a butthole- That is all!!
The deer scene took me outta here chile...my side was hurting from laughing so hard.
Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!!!! You will be glad that you did.
Not only will you laugh, but she will also give you a meaningful storyline that will melt your heart. This story is Christmas themed, however it can fit into any time of the year. Kasha has a way of incorporating life lessons and real-life scenarios into her writing that will have you all in your feelings. I can relate to so many things in this story relating to loss, and this is why I love her writing.
Belen Goodwin is a perfectionist who is an event planner for the local mall in charge of holiday events. Kristoff Kringle aka Kris Kringle is the newly hired mall Santa. First of all, he is tall and fine. Like, fine fine. How do I know this? I just do. The conversation from their initial meeting was a set up for the comedic banter between the two and the start of a hilarious journey.
Celeste was my heart. She is the sister of Belen and has a disability but the character that she has- Amazing. I loved how she was written and loved her no filter attitude. She will tell you like it is, and you have no other choice but to hear it. No time off for Celeste. I just loved her.
The Kringle family was a handful, but I loved their dynamics for sure.
Aiden was a butthole- That is all!!
The deer scene took me outta here chile...my side was hurting from laughing so hard.
Do yourself a favor and READ THIS BOOK!!!! You will be glad that you did.
November 11, 2024
Go ahead and add this one to your Christmas Reading List! It’s work romance, it’s giving some grumpy/sunshine, it’s “I’m going to do everything in my power to change the narrative of your thoughts and feelings of the Christmas Holiday, it’s giving forever…and it’s giving 🌶️!!!!
“Belen Goodwin, the event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall has one job this holiday season: to make Christmas festive and bright. But after a string of disastrous personal Christmases in her past, she’s no fan of the holiday cheer. With every twinkling light and carol, her grinch-like attitude only grows stronger.
Enter Kris Kringle, the mall’s new Santa, currently in the midst of saying “yes” to life’s adventures. He’s here to tick off a bucket-list experience, not expecting his biggest challenge yet – a Christmas grump in the form of the mall’s event planner. But sparks fly as the two work side by side, and the flirtation between them becomes harder to ignore.
Belen was just hoping to survive the season, but Kris makes her want something more than a casual fling. As the holidays draw near, she’ll have to decide if she’s ready to let go of the bah humbug and embrace the magic of Christmas, and the man who is determined to melt her frosty heart.”
“Belen Goodwin, the event coordinator at Pavilion Grand Mall has one job this holiday season: to make Christmas festive and bright. But after a string of disastrous personal Christmases in her past, she’s no fan of the holiday cheer. With every twinkling light and carol, her grinch-like attitude only grows stronger.
Enter Kris Kringle, the mall’s new Santa, currently in the midst of saying “yes” to life’s adventures. He’s here to tick off a bucket-list experience, not expecting his biggest challenge yet – a Christmas grump in the form of the mall’s event planner. But sparks fly as the two work side by side, and the flirtation between them becomes harder to ignore.
Belen was just hoping to survive the season, but Kris makes her want something more than a casual fling. As the holidays draw near, she’ll have to decide if she’s ready to let go of the bah humbug and embrace the magic of Christmas, and the man who is determined to melt her frosty heart.”
November 8, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
**Does mention parent loss
If you are looking for the perfect Christmas book to get you in the spirit with a twist, the FMC hates Christmas look no further!
Belen is just trying to survive the Christmas season and come out on the other side without more heartbreak. Kris is enjoying his micro retirement checking things off of his bucket list.
For Belen it wasn’t an instant love, attraction? Yes, love? No. Kris knew right away that Belen was special and wanted to do anything o get to know her. Not only seeing how he treated Belen and but her sister Celeste as well was nice to see. Seeing Kris view Celeste as an extension of Belen and not a burden was amazing to see. The banter and wittiness between all the characters was hilarious, especially between Kris and Belen. This book had me laughing, and ready to shed some tears as well. Overall it captures everything I want to enjoy during the holidays!
Thank you Kasha Thompson for the opportunity to read Christmas with Kris Kringle before it releases!
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5
**Does mention parent loss
If you are looking for the perfect Christmas book to get you in the spirit with a twist, the FMC hates Christmas look no further!
Belen is just trying to survive the Christmas season and come out on the other side without more heartbreak. Kris is enjoying his micro retirement checking things off of his bucket list.
For Belen it wasn’t an instant love, attraction? Yes, love? No. Kris knew right away that Belen was special and wanted to do anything o get to know her. Not only seeing how he treated Belen and but her sister Celeste as well was nice to see. Seeing Kris view Celeste as an extension of Belen and not a burden was amazing to see. The banter and wittiness between all the characters was hilarious, especially between Kris and Belen. This book had me laughing, and ready to shed some tears as well. Overall it captures everything I want to enjoy during the holidays!
Thank you Kasha Thompson for the opportunity to read Christmas with Kris Kringle before it releases!
November 8, 2024
a little workplace romance
If Sanaa Lathan and Morris Chestnut had come together to make a Christmas movie, then you would have Christmas With Kris Kringle.
The Thing about Kasha Thompson's books is that I always feel like they would make the best modern-day black rom-coms. I love how she intertwines complex themes with a good balance of romance, spice, and comedy. Belen and Kris do not disappoint. Belen had Kris weak and his knees; I love that for her.
Belen reminds me of so many women I see every day. Carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders and trying to be strong for everyone around them. Belen is doing her best to maintain while caring for her sister Celeste.
Enter Kris, who wants to help her carry the load. Kris isn't afraid to fall first and go after what he wants. I love how Kris craves his way into Belen's heart and gives her space to let her guard down. I also like how Kris builds his own relationship with Celeste, knowing that her and Belen were a package deal.
If Sanaa Lathan and Morris Chestnut had come together to make a Christmas movie, then you would have Christmas With Kris Kringle.
The Thing about Kasha Thompson's books is that I always feel like they would make the best modern-day black rom-coms. I love how she intertwines complex themes with a good balance of romance, spice, and comedy. Belen and Kris do not disappoint. Belen had Kris weak and his knees; I love that for her.
Belen reminds me of so many women I see every day. Carrying the weight of the world on their shoulders and trying to be strong for everyone around them. Belen is doing her best to maintain while caring for her sister Celeste.
Enter Kris, who wants to help her carry the load. Kris isn't afraid to fall first and go after what he wants. I love how Kris craves his way into Belen's heart and gives her space to let her guard down. I also like how Kris builds his own relationship with Celeste, knowing that her and Belen were a package deal.
December 16, 2025
Hard Happy Holidays
First off this does have the dreaded (overused) struggling with grief at the holidays trope, it’s not so in your face that it’s overwhelming like in other books. Not until almost the end. Second it also has the I need to tell you something but I keep putting it off which is just the cousin of the need to tell you but keep getting interrupted trope. So there are my reasons for likening but not loving this book. But like it I did and that’s because Kris is that Santa and she sneaks in a millionaire romance. While yall hate it when the girl plays the I don’t want or need your money game (which really isn’t done here she’s just uncomfortable being in two very different tax brackets) I find it relatable as heck. And just like Kris I loved that Belen was a good girl in the streets and a good fkn girl in the sheets. Once again I loved the realism and familiarity that Thompson manages to infuse in all her books (that’s I’ve read) it creates a connection between reader and story that a truly unique experience.
First off this does have the dreaded (overused) struggling with grief at the holidays trope, it’s not so in your face that it’s overwhelming like in other books. Not until almost the end. Second it also has the I need to tell you something but I keep putting it off which is just the cousin of the need to tell you but keep getting interrupted trope. So there are my reasons for likening but not loving this book. But like it I did and that’s because Kris is that Santa and she sneaks in a millionaire romance. While yall hate it when the girl plays the I don’t want or need your money game (which really isn’t done here she’s just uncomfortable being in two very different tax brackets) I find it relatable as heck. And just like Kris I loved that Belen was a good girl in the streets and a good fkn girl in the sheets. Once again I loved the realism and familiarity that Thompson manages to infuse in all her books (that’s I’ve read) it creates a connection between reader and story that a truly unique experience.
December 10, 2024
Kasha Thompson is a new to me author but I will definitely be reading more by her. I really enjoyed Christmas with Kris Kringle , the characters and the story. Kris, a tech billionaire with a heart of gold who had being a mall Santa on his bucket list. Which introduces him to Belen who is a strong woman who takes care of her sister Celeste, who has down syndrome and was an absolute doll. I loved the instant chemistry between Kris and Belen it's electric and explosive when they get in the bedroom . 🔥🔥 Overall this is a fantastic POC holiday romance between a mall Santa and the mall event coordinator filled with family , snow tubing, a naughty bucket list, high steam, and a happily ever after.
“I’m not settling, I’m making a choice. Instead of choosing me, I’m choosing us, because us… makes me happy.”
“I’m not settling, I’m making a choice. Instead of choosing me, I’m choosing us, because us… makes me happy.”
December 13, 2024
This was surprisingly heartfelt and sp🌶️cy. Definitely a sweet, quick read for the holiday season, especially for those of us who may have complex feelings about everything that Christmas brings.
I loved Belen and Celeste’s relationship as sisters and how the author portrayed a character with Down Syndrome in such a thoughtful, non-infantilizing way. Kris and Belen were cute, too, and I loved Belen getting a manz who was ready to support and spoil her. But their relationship was def a bit too insta-lovey for my taste, and the conflict towards the end of the story was frustrating.
I loved Belen and Celeste’s relationship as sisters and how the author portrayed a character with Down Syndrome in such a thoughtful, non-infantilizing way. Kris and Belen were cute, too, and I loved Belen getting a manz who was ready to support and spoil her. But their relationship was def a bit too insta-lovey for my taste, and the conflict towards the end of the story was frustrating.
December 22, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. It had me laughing out loud, shaking my legs and wiggling my toes, pacing the floors, it was oh so good!
The FMC was hilarious, stubborn, guarded, but very likable. Her love for her sister and past traumas added so much depth to her character. The MMC was free-spirited, attentive, loving, and decisive. He went after what he wanted without question. He also bucked conventional wisdom which had me hyped!
This book gave me all the Christmas feels, nice spice, and a couple I’ll be thinking about in the coming days.
I HIGHLY recommend this read!
The FMC was hilarious, stubborn, guarded, but very likable. Her love for her sister and past traumas added so much depth to her character. The MMC was free-spirited, attentive, loving, and decisive. He went after what he wanted without question. He also bucked conventional wisdom which had me hyped!
This book gave me all the Christmas feels, nice spice, and a couple I’ll be thinking about in the coming days.
I HIGHLY recommend this read!
November 9, 2024
This story was phenomenal, but I've expected nothing less from this author. This book will put you in the holiday spirit with the joy's of Christmas, as well as an abundance of laughter. It has the coziness of a Hallmark movie, but HBO spicier. And Kris's family made it that much funnier. I fell out laughing many times throughout the story. And a Black Santa Clause. This was such a great read, and I can't wait for the next book from this author.
November 30, 2024
4.5*
Goodness I enjoyed this book so much! There was great banter and hot chemistry - I could not stop smiling while reading this one. I loved Belen's relationship with her sister; it was clear how much she adored her and I so appreciated how immediately Kris loved her too. His family was also a lot of fun and I laughed more than once when everyone was together. What a delightful romance this was.
Goodness I enjoyed this book so much! There was great banter and hot chemistry - I could not stop smiling while reading this one. I loved Belen's relationship with her sister; it was clear how much she adored her and I so appreciated how immediately Kris loved her too. His family was also a lot of fun and I laughed more than once when everyone was together. What a delightful romance this was.
December 12, 2024
I felt so many things reading this book, I could only give it 5 stars.
First and foremost, I loved Kristoff and Belen. Two successful black people coming together for a cutesy chance romance.
The depiction of Celeste as a person with autonomy and not just another infantilized person with Downs Syndrome was refreshing.
The way this book touched on grief was nice, especially grief surrounding the holidays.
Kasha doesn't miss. I've loved every one of her books that I've read.
First and foremost, I loved Kristoff and Belen. Two successful black people coming together for a cutesy chance romance.
The depiction of Celeste as a person with autonomy and not just another infantilized person with Downs Syndrome was refreshing.
The way this book touched on grief was nice, especially grief surrounding the holidays.
Kasha doesn't miss. I've loved every one of her books that I've read.
December 15, 2024
Kasha never disappoints
This was the most adorable story. I loved the meet-cute, the characters, and the general development of the story. Belen was independent, but still showed her vulnerable side. Kris was compassionate and impulsive, but he still held some complexity. I finished this book within 24 hours even though I can be a slow reader at times. Can’t wait for the next book!
This was the most adorable story. I loved the meet-cute, the characters, and the general development of the story. Belen was independent, but still showed her vulnerable side. Kris was compassionate and impulsive, but he still held some complexity. I finished this book within 24 hours even though I can be a slow reader at times. Can’t wait for the next book!
December 16, 2024
4.5
Kris is on a micro retirement a named he coined and he wants to be the mall Santa. Belen is the mall coordinator of events and upon seeing Kris tries to get him replaced. He looks nothing like Santa he’s fit and her age, and he’s very handsome. I loved this heartwarming story about loss and how love and compassion can help heal you just a little. It was also incredibly hilarious at times. It was a well rounded book.
It was a beautiful story and I am so glad I read it.
Kris is on a micro retirement a named he coined and he wants to be the mall Santa. Belen is the mall coordinator of events and upon seeing Kris tries to get him replaced. He looks nothing like Santa he’s fit and her age, and he’s very handsome. I loved this heartwarming story about loss and how love and compassion can help heal you just a little. It was also incredibly hilarious at times. It was a well rounded book.
It was a beautiful story and I am so glad I read it.
December 8, 2025
A Sweet & Spicy Work Holiday Romance
I enjoyed this story thoroughly. The main characters were really funny, and they had great chemistry. However, I feel like the story ended abruptly, which is why I only gave it 4 stars. The ending felt a bit rushed. Other than that, if anyone is looking for a cute Christmas romance that feels authentic and fun, I’d definitely recommend Christmas With Kris Kringle.
I enjoyed this story thoroughly. The main characters were really funny, and they had great chemistry. However, I feel like the story ended abruptly, which is why I only gave it 4 stars. The ending felt a bit rushed. Other than that, if anyone is looking for a cute Christmas romance that feels authentic and fun, I’d definitely recommend Christmas With Kris Kringle.
November 7, 2024
I had to read this one. This is one of my favorite authors and it’s about my favorite time of the year!!
It’s a funny, feel-good holiday read. It is the perfect book to get you in the spirit.
It wasn’t too long. The characters were funny, and there were plenty of Laugh-out-loud moments.The sweet happily-ever-after left me smiling. Perfect for a cozy Christmas escape!
It’s a funny, feel-good holiday read. It is the perfect book to get you in the spirit.
It wasn’t too long. The characters were funny, and there were plenty of Laugh-out-loud moments.The sweet happily-ever-after left me smiling. Perfect for a cozy Christmas escape!
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