Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Moonvale Matches #2.5

Merry in Moonvale

Rate this book
A holiday novella set in the charming, magical town of Moonvale. Enjoy another glimpse into the lives of the characters we know and love.

Sugar, spice, and everything nice (and also baby dragons).

With Merry Day right around the corner, the folk of Moonvale are preparing for the holiday while hoping to avoid any more magical mishaps—especially because magic has finally returned to the realm, throwing everyone off-kilter. Ciders are flowing, pastries are baking, and gifts are being prepared.

But Kizzi brought three elusive dragon eggs to town, and miraculously, they're hatching.

Can Kizzi and her best friend Fiella keep the dragons contained and save the town from destruction, or will Merry Day be ruined?

Merry in Moonvale is a Moonvale Matches novella that takes place after the events of Love Letters & Thirst Tonics and Cauldrons & Cat Tails.

Moonvale Matches is a series of interconnected standalone fantasy romance novels that take place in a cozy, small town where folk of all species reside. Grab a warm cup of tea or a cranberry cider and dive back into this world of romance, magic, and mayhem.

122 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 31, 2024

17 people are currently reading
199 people want to read

About the author

Hailey Blackwood

5 books151 followers
Hailey Blackwood is a lover of all things fantasy- from cozy to dark and everywhere in between. She has always been an avid reader, but she is stepping into the author world with her debut novel, Love Letters and Thirst Tonics. When Hailey is not reading or writing, you will probably find her drinking tea (or wine) at home surrounded by her four cats and multitude of houseplants. She loves vampires, grumpy MMCs, and cozy fantasy worlds that you feel like you can step right into.

You can find Hailey on Instagram and TikTok at @authorhaileyblackwood

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
113 (49%)
4 stars
80 (35%)
3 stars
30 (13%)
2 stars
5 (2%)
1 star
0 (0%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews
Profile Image for Desiree.
274 reviews22 followers
December 30, 2024
Such a cute little holiday novella within the Moonvale Matches series!

It likely isn’t fully pertinent to the overall series, but it does do a little bit of setting up for book 3 (we find out who the next interconnected standalone will be about!!).

You could *probably* read this on its own, but definitely recommend reading the first two books first.
Profile Image for Lex Mak.
227 reviews50 followers
December 29, 2024
Back in moonvale for Christmas and I couldn’t be happier!

This was the cutest and most fun novella, featuring all the characters we know and love, with a few extra special guests… 🔥

Merry in moonvale will now be a regular read for me during the holidays, I love this little world so much. Puts me in the coziest mood.

This was all vibes, no plot and I’m not mad about it. I loved just being able to enjoy the catastrophe going on 🎄
Profile Image for eclecticbychoicereads.
584 reviews60 followers
December 30, 2024
Hailey Blackwood gifted us the sweetest, most precious present in the form of this cosy fantasy novella, Merry in Moonvale. I was smiling and giggling the entire time I was reading.

Merry in Moonvale is set in the same world of Hailey's, the one we love and can't get enough of. It offers the perfect respite and the perfect pause while we wait for future events in Moonvale. And we get baby dragons! Can it get any cuter? I don't think so!

We see a glimpse of what happens after the HEA, and I loved seeing how the characters simply enjoy themselves and their lives during the festivities. But Hailey gives us more than that; she hints at what will happen in the future books, and now I am so excited to see new stories and new loves unfold.

Tandor was there, a new type of cider was there, and all it was missing was me. Just joking, but Hailey's books really make you feel like you're there, at the epicentre of it all.

I love being Hailey's ARC reader and can't wait for more!

Merry in Moonvale will be released on December 31st, so it's the perfect way to ring in a new year!
Profile Image for Meg (fantasybook.adventurer).
416 reviews44 followers
December 28, 2024
✨Merry in Moonvale✨

In book 2.5 of the Moonvale Matches, a series of interconnected standalones, we get a glimpse of life after the HEA with our FMCs from books 1 & 2, Fiella and Kizzi.

So adorably done, within the pages of MIM, Hailey gives us giggles and swoons alongside an ending that made me squeal as it leads us towards book 3. This sweet little tale shows us how the four friends are getting on alongside the little creatures that were acquired in book 2. It was precious and full of love and whimsy.

I am honored to once again get to arc read for Hailey. Thank you for this opportunity. Your stories are so joyful and funny.
Profile Image for Maggie Maeve.
179 reviews88 followers
December 31, 2024
This was cozy and sweet and a perfect little novella to end the year with. It’s perfect to read around the holidays, but also just a wonderful story when you’re wanting something to make you feel warm and fuzzy. Did I mention there are the most adorable baby dragons? So precious. I want to drink a cider in Moonvale with my own baby dragon.
Profile Image for Ashley | A Pair of Readers.
469 reviews26 followers
January 11, 2025
Adorable novella with holiday vibes. I loved this return to Moonvale to see what happened with some very specific characters that appear at the end of book two. It was fun to see where Fiella and Kizzi's individual stories continued. I love also loved the hint at who might be our FMC in book 3!

Definitely love this cozy series with laugh out loud humor and the right amount of heat!
Profile Image for kevork_1989.
202 reviews5 followers
August 8, 2025
This was adorable. A sweet little inbetween novella to connect the first two books with the continued story in book #3 of the series. I’m loving these characters in the world. This series is so perfectly cosy. So many magical critters, creatures and characters. I finished this in about an hour. Was such a light read.
Profile Image for yasmeen ౨ৎ.
91 reviews26 followers
August 15, 2025
• ౨ৎ ‹ merry in moonvale ɞ˚
°˖ 𐃘 4 stars

pre-read ⤸ i had absolutely no idea that this novella even existed until a few days ago & it completely made my day ♡♡

❝ ... whatever it is, it can't be any crazier than baby proofing our cottage for a dragon ❞

merry in moonvale was such a cute addition to the moonvale matches series & i loved how the plot continued after kizzi's book ʚ♡ɞ revisiting this world and the characters made me feel so warm and fuzzy inside & the dragons were such a cute addition ⊹₊⟡⋆ this novella was mostly wholesome, excluding the spicy scenes which i would've preferred without. otherwise, this novella was adorable & i can't wait to see the next addition to this series!
Profile Image for Gianna.
60 reviews
July 10, 2025
3.8⭐️ Cute read as always, these characters are precious to me 🥹
Profile Image for Caffs37.
181 reviews5 followers
January 1, 2025
Hailey Blackwood has done it again with "Merry in Moonvale," a delightful novella that seamlessly continues the enchanting journey of Kizzi and Fiella in the beloved Moonvale Matches series. As a long-time fan of Blackworth's cozy storytelling, I was thrilled to dive back into the whimsically magical town of Moonvale, and this installment did not disappoint.

From the very first page, the warm, inviting atmosphere that I have come to cherish in Blackwood’s writing enveloped me like a favorite blanket. Kizzi and Fiella, our charming protagonists, are as relatable and endearing as ever. Their friendship shines through as they navigate daily life in Moonvale, grappling with the delightful chaos brought on by the long-anticipated hatching of legendary dragon eggs. The addition of adorable baby dragons adds an extra layer of whimsy and excitement to their already vibrant world.

One of the standout elements of this novella is Blackworth's ability to weave in spicy scenes that feel organic and well-placed. They enhance the story without overshadowing the heartwarming moments that define the characters and their relationships. It's a testament to her skillful storytelling that these elements blend so seamlessly, making the reading experience both captivating and enjoyable.

The character development is top-notch, with familiar faces returning alongside new ones that are sure to become fan favorites. The world-building continues to be a highlight, painting a picture of Moonvale that feels tangible and immersive. I found myself longing to step into the pages and explore every nook and cranny of this magical town.

As I reached the cliffhanger ending, I was left buzzing with excitement and anticipation for what comes next in the series. Blackwood has masterfully set the stage for future adventures, and I can't wait to see where she takes Kizzi, Fiella, and their adorable dragon companions next.

In summary, "Merry in Moonvale" is a delightful addition to the series that captures the cozy charm and magic we've come to love. With its engaging characters, well-crafted plot, and the perfect balance of spice and sweetness, this novella is a must-read for fans of the series and newcomers alike. I highly recommend curling up with this book and getting lost in the enchanting world of Moonvale—it's a journey you won't want to miss!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
22 reviews1 follower
January 13, 2025
Merry in Moonvale by Hailey Blackwood is a heartwarming and enchanting holiday romance that immerses readers in the cozy, magical town of Moonvale. The story follows Merry, a woman who has spent years avoiding the Christmas spirit after a series of personal losses, only to find herself drawn back into the festivities when she unexpectedly returns to Moonvale.

The novel expertly blends elements of romance, family drama, and self-discovery as Merry reconnects with old friends and starts to open her heart to new possibilities. Hailey Blackwood does an excellent job creating a charming setting with vivid descriptions of the small town, which serves as a perfect backdrop for the story's themes of healing, love, and second chances.

The characters are well-developed, with Merry being a relatable and empathetic protagonist. Her journey toward overcoming past pain and embracing the magic of the season is inspiring, and her relationship with the love interest is both sweet and heartwarming. The pacing is steady, and while the romance builds gradually, it never feels forced or rushed.

Overall, Merry in Moonvale is an ideal read for anyone looking for a feel-good story filled with festive cheer, romance, and the importance of community and personal growth. Hailey Blackwood’s writing captures the essence of a cozy winter holiday and leaves readers with a warm, satisfied feeling long after they’ve turned the last page.
Profile Image for Reading Fox.
5 reviews
January 1, 2025
This novella is amazing! ❤️


I love it when we get a glimpse of how our beloved characters celebrate different holidays!

Not only we get to see how they prepare themselves for the upcoming holiday but we also get DRAGONS?!? I'M IN LOVE!!! ❤️❤️❤️

Our beloved characters have to work together to make sure that the dragons don't reach a havoc on the town ruining Merry Day in the process. Will they succeed? Or is Merry Day ruined? Only one way to find out, by reading the novella of course.

The novella is from our favorite duo's POV, Fiella and Kizzi. 

This was a stress-free, heartwarming, amazing read! It is my comfort series, I love it! ❤️❤️

To fully enjoy this novella I do recommend that you read the first two books in the Moonvale Matches series: 

- Love Letters and Thirst Tonics- Fiella and Redd's story;

- Cauldrons and Cat Tails- Kizzi and Tandor's story.

I'm giving the novella 5 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐


What can you expect from this novella?

✨ Baby dragons

✨ Witch and Orc

✨ Vampires and other magical creatures

✨ Cats

✨ Sprites

✨ A bit of spice

✨ Dual POV

✨ Found family

✨ Cozy, good vibes

✨ Stress-free read

✨ Ciders


Happy reading, everyone! 📖📚🫶
Profile Image for ShaynaReadsFantasy.
94 reviews10 followers
December 29, 2024
The perfect sweet and spicy holiday Novella to complete the season!
I absolutely loved getting a little peak into normal daily life for our two favorite couples in Moonvale, Fiella and Redd & Kizzi and Tandor!
The addition of baby dragons and they’re sweet and sassy personalities was the perfect way to set up for book 3! I don’t want to give much away but the ending of this sweet Novella was the perfect set up for the next Moonvale couple’s love story! Haley’s writing is always beautiful and her spice scenes are always perfection and this Novella hit every point and left me feeling all kinds of warm and cozy feels the perfect way to tie up the holiday season with a hot cup of cider of course!
Profile Image for BOOK IT BISHES.
164 reviews6 followers
December 30, 2024
Christmas in Moonvale is magical and chaotic in the best way possible.

A short and sweet novella that follows Kizzi and Fiella, along with their respective mates, who are tasked with getting the town ready for Merry Day!

Getting a glimpse of their lives after their respective books was so much fun! Moonvale gives Star Hollow Vibes, and I am here for it! Throw in some sassy sprites, a stubborn familiar, a dash of spice will make you wish you could stay longer in their world.

An absolute delight to read! I highly recommend you read the first two books, Love Letter and Thirst Tonic (Fiella & Redd's story) & Cauldrons and Cat Tails (Kizzi & Tandor's story) to really appreciate this cozy Christmas tale. Thank you for the ARC Hailey!

Profile Image for Rae Redwood.
29 reviews
January 8, 2025
What a great late Christmas present I did not expect!

Delay in finishing the book due to stock take at work but WOW!!! What a cliffhanger you are left on!

Sitting here wide eyed and speechless…. I have to wait! It was getting goooood!!!

I adore that Kizzi and Fellia’s relationship continues to grow and flourish with their other half’s and the interring addition of Tommins small but unforgettable additions to chapters that are still having me guessing and itching to know more!

I didn’t expect but enjoy Gingers more active role and the increase she will have in the next book along with those mischievous sprites!

GIVE ME BOOK 3 please!!!

The growth In the writing is evident and love seeing more coming from this author!
Profile Image for Cameron Charping.
358 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2025
4⭐️s Kizzi and Fiella are back! Merry Day is coming but something is hatching that might ruin it. With the help of their fellas, Redd and Tandor, they will all work together to control new baby dragons. Of course, Hex is surprisingly helpful too.

Highly recommend reading Love Letters and Thirst Tonics and Cauldrons and Cat Tails before this novella. If you like cozy romantasy, highly recommend @authorhaileyblackwood. These are all fun, easy reads that will leave you loving everyone in Moonvale. I’m personally excited for more. Thank you Hailey for letting me read and review again.💚 Happy Release Day!
Profile Image for Missy.
243 reviews2 followers
January 14, 2025
I am so happy to have read this book, I love Kizzi as she has all the shenanigans going on, and in case you couldn’t tell, I am a big Kizzi fan! And I can’t wait to see her in the other novels :) 

Okay, enough fangirling here. This book was so cozy and 100% perfect for the Christmas season. You get dragons, witches, vampires, and orcs all in one book. Humour is the icing of this delicious book, and once you get a taste of it, you won’t want to put it down. I do, however, recommend that you read the first 2 books before getting into this one. 

A big thank you to the author for letting me be a part of her arc team and getting this book early!
Profile Image for Kayla Chitwood Harned.
92 reviews1 follower
January 25, 2025
This is the perfect holiday novella addition to the Moonvale Matches series, as book 2.5.
I always love a dual POV with Kizzi and Fiella. The banter between the girls, their friends, and their mates is chef's kiss. The baby dragons.....who doesn't love baby dragons?!?!
I recommend reading the first two books in the series before you read Merry in Moonvale to fall in love with all the characters and understand some of the small references to events in the other books.
Thank you, Haley, for the arc and the sneak peek of who will be a part of the next match in book three. I loved being back in the world of Moonvale and can't wait to see what happens next.
Profile Image for The Sultry Scribe.
36 reviews
September 28, 2025
I always look forward to returning to Moonvale, and this fun wintry novella did not disappoint! It’s a perfect cozy up and read in one sitting length, and gives you just a little more of the 2 couples we’ve already come to love from Love Letters & Thirst Tonics and Cauldrons & Cat Tails. It follows Fiella, Kizzi, Redd, Tandor and a few other familiar characters as they prepare for Merry Day, all while also dealing with the 3 dragons eggs that Kizzi & Tandor brought home with them from their travels in Cauldrons. But can they get their prep done, make sure the town stays intact and handle freshly hatched dragons? Check out Merry In Moonvale today!
Profile Image for Lisa Wilson-Pennington.
16 reviews
December 29, 2024
I was so excited to receive this arc, it follows up on the tail of the second book where the four main characters have gotten their hands on three eggs…. Now those eggs are due to hatch, hopefully before Merry Day or they’ll have to return them back to where they came from. Now that the little town of Moonvale has their magic back and it seems these eggs may hatch, other mischief seems to abound. Such a cute story with a touch of spice and lots of fun. Very cute novella to continue this adorable series, totally can’t wait for the next chapter.
Profile Image for Manuela.
85 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
This was everything I was looking for when it comes to a Holiday novella in a series. It was short and sweet without being too over the top.
The story follows Kizzi and Fiella- two best friends as they get ready for Merry Day.
We have a magical town - Witches, Vampires, Orcs, cats and baby dragons!
This story is a nice little peak into what comes after from the first two books.
You don't necessarily need to read the first two books in order to read this one but I would highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Kim Johnson.
13 reviews1 follower
December 31, 2024
I was lucky to get an ARC of Merry in Moonvale which is part of the Moonvale Matches series. It was the perfect novella for this series! It follows our main two couples that we met in Love Letters and Thirst Tonics and Cauldrons and Cat tails. I love these 4 characters so much. There’s also baby dragons in this book! Like I said before, I’ll read anything Hailey Blackwood writes at this point. The world she created is magical. This is cute, cozy, spicy fantasy at its best! I also feel like this book sets us up for our next couple! I’m so excited for book 3!
Profile Image for Amy.
279 reviews2 followers
November 11, 2025
3.5⭐️
This book was cute. I wish there was a little bit more Christmas and a bit more about the dragons. There was a good amount but I just felt like it needed a little bit more. I quite enjoyed most of this book. I was a little confused at parts which person was supposed to be and maybe that's just me. It's a very short book, and I still think it's worth a listen, especially because it definitely goes with the other books for sure. It really ties it in together and it gives more about the dragons, even if it's not as much as you probably hope.
Profile Image for Crystal Wade.
270 reviews
December 31, 2024
Merry in Moonvale is book 2.5 in a Moonvale Matches series. This is a short novella and a quick read.
I really enjoyed this book. I love the dynamic between all of the characters. I seems like it is going to be a good segway into book three of the series. I am looking forward to getting to know the dragons more, I am sure they are going to all have personalities of their own.
Moonvale Matches series is such a cozy romantic, I highly recommend it.
Profile Image for Shanny Marie.
98 reviews6 followers
January 1, 2025
Merry in Moonvale is such a cute sweet little Christmas read. With friendship, love spice and dragon eggs. With a deadline to hatch in Moonvale if they dnt hatch by the deadline they have to be returned back to where kizzi had bought them from.

The way the author writes her books is amazing I always feel at aww and comfort when reading the Moonvale Matches series it gives of Gilmore girl vibes but with the twist of fantasy and mystery there absolutely amazing.
Profile Image for Jodie Mihas.
537 reviews4 followers
January 5, 2025
Lovely

This book is the next instalment of this sweet lovely series and it’s just as awesome as the previous ones The dragon eggs are finally hatching and give Kizzi and Fiella the fun they didn’t know they needed,Merry Day is happening so we get to see all the wonderful characters from the previous books,a wonderful holiday novella. Highly recommend and can’t wait for the next books 🖤❤️
Profile Image for Britt Smolinski.
355 reviews2 followers
January 7, 2025
4.5⭐️

This was such a fun cozy read that gives you all the feels. This Moonvale Matches novella alternates between Kizzi and Fiella’s povs. I loved getting a glimpse of both of their *steamy* relationships and hilarious friendships. And did I mention dragons! I desperately want my own baby pet dragon 🐉 I can’t wait for the next book in this series!

Thank you to Hailey Blackwood for an eARC of this cozy and magical read!
Profile Image for Aria Devereux.
23 reviews4 followers
January 8, 2025
ARC Book Review: Merry in Moonvale by Hailey Blackwood

Merry in Moonvale is a magical holiday fantasy that sparkles with whimsy and heart. 🎄✨ In the enchanted town of Moonvale, we re-enter a world of mystical creatures, traditions, and budding romance

Hailey Blackwood weaves a tale full of festive wonder, adventure, and a slow-burn romance that’s as warm as a crackling fire. 🔥❄️ Perfect for fans of cozy fantasy, this book is a holiday treat you won’t want to miss!

Rating: ★★★★
Displaying 1 - 30 of 93 reviews

Can't find what you're looking for?

Get help and learn more about the design.