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It Could Have Been Great
An irrational caffeine addiction.
A stubborn uncaffeinated woman.
And a blizzard that forces Kate Everett to spend Christmas snowed in with a lumberjack of a man whose slow crawl smile is more energizing than coffee.
Even though Christmas works its magic, and Kate finds herself warming to the idea of more than just a moment with Boone Montgomery, she knows he will eventually discover that her shimmer dulls. It always does.
She’s always been too honest. Too stubborn. Too loud. Too much to handle.
She knows what's going on between them could have been great, but she’s not willing to chance disappointing both herself and Boone. Once the snow melts, she knows she needs to get back to her scheduled life in New York City.
But the thing about the potential for love is it’s not just what Kate feels. It’s what Boone feels, too.
Kate might be honest with others, but can she be honest with herself this Christmas?
It Could Have Been Great is a no-spice, romcom, cozy Christmas novella with lots of feel-good warmth and light Christian themes.
A stubborn uncaffeinated woman.
And a blizzard that forces Kate Everett to spend Christmas snowed in with a lumberjack of a man whose slow crawl smile is more energizing than coffee.
Even though Christmas works its magic, and Kate finds herself warming to the idea of more than just a moment with Boone Montgomery, she knows he will eventually discover that her shimmer dulls. It always does.
She’s always been too honest. Too stubborn. Too loud. Too much to handle.
She knows what's going on between them could have been great, but she’s not willing to chance disappointing both herself and Boone. Once the snow melts, she knows she needs to get back to her scheduled life in New York City.
But the thing about the potential for love is it’s not just what Kate feels. It’s what Boone feels, too.
Kate might be honest with others, but can she be honest with herself this Christmas?
It Could Have Been Great is a no-spice, romcom, cozy Christmas novella with lots of feel-good warmth and light Christian themes.
171 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 6, 2024
41 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
About the author
Shelbey Kendall
16 books53 followersShelbey Kendall writes heartwarming, hope-filled fiction for readers of all ages. As the author of The Sonshine Sister Club series, she blends faith, family, friendship, and a touch of humor to encourage young readers that no mess or mistake is too big for Jesus. In addition to middle grade fiction, Shelbey also writes clean, closed-door romance filled with real emotion, redemptive arcs, and characters you’ll root for. Whether she’s crafting stories for kids or grown-ups, her mission is the same: to offer light in the darkness and remind readers that grace is always within reach.
When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her sipping coffee, listening to country music or Andy Grammer, or spending time with her family. She lives in small-town Kansas and is always dreaming up her next story.
Follow her on Instagram: @shelbeykendallauthor
When she’s not writing, you’ll likely find her sipping coffee, listening to country music or Andy Grammer, or spending time with her family. She lives in small-town Kansas and is always dreaming up her next story.
Follow her on Instagram: @shelbeykendallauthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
December 17, 2024
This was such a fun, sweet, and hilarious Christmas novella! I don’t read novellas very often, but I’m so glad I picked this one up! I loved how Shelby was able to incorporate a swoony romance with older characters, hilarious moments with great banter, and deeper themes/emotional depth. That’s hard to do in a shorter book, but she nailed it.
I loved Kate and Boone; they are such great and quirky characters. Kate is a coffee-obsessed, funny, and blatantly honest character; she’s one I think many will relate to! Boone is a great MMC; he dresses like a lumberjack, and he’s kind, funny, and witty. Not to mention… he has a cat named Dog, makes his own homemade coffee creamer and mugs, and prays.
If you’re looking for a fun Christmas read that will surely get you into the Christmas spirit, make you laugh, zero spice, and light Christian themes, I highly recommend checking this book out!✨
Content discretions: No spice (non-descriptive kisses only), zero language, loss of a loved one from cancer, mention of a car accident.
I loved Kate and Boone; they are such great and quirky characters. Kate is a coffee-obsessed, funny, and blatantly honest character; she’s one I think many will relate to! Boone is a great MMC; he dresses like a lumberjack, and he’s kind, funny, and witty. Not to mention… he has a cat named Dog, makes his own homemade coffee creamer and mugs, and prays.
If you’re looking for a fun Christmas read that will surely get you into the Christmas spirit, make you laugh, zero spice, and light Christian themes, I highly recommend checking this book out!✨
Content discretions: No spice (non-descriptive kisses only), zero language, loss of a loved one from cancer, mention of a car accident.
November 20, 2024
I am so thrilled I got to read Shelbey Kendall's debut clean romance novella! It was the perfect length to finish in one sitting (which I totally did) and loved every single moment.
I love that the FMC, Kate, is a whirlwind of words, quirkiness, and coffee. I love that she was able to realize her worth, embrace her spunkiness, and let her guard down by meeting Boone.
Boone is such a cinnamon roll. I love that he also had to have growth through the story and that he didn't have a perfect life. He had went through hardship, grief and moments when he ran from the realities of life. But with Kate and God's help he could understand that he could find love and hope again.
I love the threads of faith, hope and prayer found in this novella where we see God's hand in unexpected ways. I love that we see Boone pray and share his faith with Kate.
If you want a truly sweet Christmas romance Novella definitely give this one a go! It definitely made me smile the entire time with Kate's quirkiness and Boone's steadiness and faith.
Favorite Quotes:
“Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.
"Letting someone else love you doesn’t mean you have to lose yourself to them. Loving the right person makes you believe in yourself more, even love yourself more.”
“You do not want to know who I am without caffeine.” “Someone that makes irrational decisions? I’ve already met her.”
Physical Intimacy Level 1 (Non Descriptive Shorter Kisses)
Zero Swearing
Single 1st Person POV (Kate's)
I love that the FMC, Kate, is a whirlwind of words, quirkiness, and coffee. I love that she was able to realize her worth, embrace her spunkiness, and let her guard down by meeting Boone.
Boone is such a cinnamon roll. I love that he also had to have growth through the story and that he didn't have a perfect life. He had went through hardship, grief and moments when he ran from the realities of life. But with Kate and God's help he could understand that he could find love and hope again.
I love the threads of faith, hope and prayer found in this novella where we see God's hand in unexpected ways. I love that we see Boone pray and share his faith with Kate.
If you want a truly sweet Christmas romance Novella definitely give this one a go! It definitely made me smile the entire time with Kate's quirkiness and Boone's steadiness and faith.
Favorite Quotes:
“Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.
"Letting someone else love you doesn’t mean you have to lose yourself to them. Loving the right person makes you believe in yourself more, even love yourself more.”
“You do not want to know who I am without caffeine.” “Someone that makes irrational decisions? I’ve already met her.”
Physical Intimacy Level 1 (Non Descriptive Shorter Kisses)
Zero Swearing
Single 1st Person POV (Kate's)
January 13, 2026
It Could Have Been Great by Shelbey Kendall Review
It Could Have Been Great by Shelbey Kendall is a cozy, clean Christmas novella that wraps gentle holiday magic, thoughtful character growth, and heartfelt romance into a delightful snowed-in story. The narrative follows Kate Everett, a witty, caffeine-powered woman who finds herself stranded in a blizzard over Christmas and rescued by Boone Montgomery, a rugged yet tenderhearted man whose lumberjack simplicity and quiet faith are a stark contrast to her bustling life in New York City. Forced together by winter’s grip in his rustic cabin, Kate and Boone forge a connection that goes deeper than hot cocoa and snowball fights, confronting fears, past hurts, and the possibility that love might be worth a risk just when life seems perfectly predictable.
From the first scene, I felt enveloped in the warmth of Christmas charm and emotional sincerity that Kendall weaves so naturally throughout this story. Kate’s relentless self-doubt, humor, and passion for coffee made her feel so human and real that I caught myself laughing at her quips and longing to hug her when she confronted her own fears about being “too much.” Boone’s steady kindness, gentle faith, and quiet strength gave the romance a grounded, uplifting heart that felt like watching snowflakes drift in slow motion.
What I loved was how the story integrates light Christian themes of hope and healing without ever feeling heavy-handed, letting moments of prayer and faith grow organically from the characters’ vulnerability rather than preachy exposition. Boone doesn’t just warm Kate’s toes by the fire; he helps her reconsider her worth and what it means to let someone in, making their connection feel earned and deeply satisfying, not just seasonal sweet.
While the novella’s length means its pacing is brisk and doesn’t linger as long as a full-length novel, the cozy mood, genuine emotional depth, and delightful banter made me smile and feel truly uplifted by the end. This is a perfect “holiday escape” romance for readers who crave warmth, heart, and a touch of snowy magic with zero spice and plenty of soul.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Because its cozy holiday setting, lovable characters, and heartfelt emotional growth made this a joyful Christmas romance.
It Could Have Been Great by Shelbey Kendall is a cozy, clean Christmas novella that wraps gentle holiday magic, thoughtful character growth, and heartfelt romance into a delightful snowed-in story. The narrative follows Kate Everett, a witty, caffeine-powered woman who finds herself stranded in a blizzard over Christmas and rescued by Boone Montgomery, a rugged yet tenderhearted man whose lumberjack simplicity and quiet faith are a stark contrast to her bustling life in New York City. Forced together by winter’s grip in his rustic cabin, Kate and Boone forge a connection that goes deeper than hot cocoa and snowball fights, confronting fears, past hurts, and the possibility that love might be worth a risk just when life seems perfectly predictable.
From the first scene, I felt enveloped in the warmth of Christmas charm and emotional sincerity that Kendall weaves so naturally throughout this story. Kate’s relentless self-doubt, humor, and passion for coffee made her feel so human and real that I caught myself laughing at her quips and longing to hug her when she confronted her own fears about being “too much.” Boone’s steady kindness, gentle faith, and quiet strength gave the romance a grounded, uplifting heart that felt like watching snowflakes drift in slow motion.
What I loved was how the story integrates light Christian themes of hope and healing without ever feeling heavy-handed, letting moments of prayer and faith grow organically from the characters’ vulnerability rather than preachy exposition. Boone doesn’t just warm Kate’s toes by the fire; he helps her reconsider her worth and what it means to let someone in, making their connection feel earned and deeply satisfying, not just seasonal sweet.
While the novella’s length means its pacing is brisk and doesn’t linger as long as a full-length novel, the cozy mood, genuine emotional depth, and delightful banter made me smile and feel truly uplifted by the end. This is a perfect “holiday escape” romance for readers who crave warmth, heart, and a touch of snowy magic with zero spice and plenty of soul.
Rating: 3 out of 5
Because its cozy holiday setting, lovable characters, and heartfelt emotional growth made this a joyful Christmas romance.
December 6, 2025
4.5 stars!
What an adorable story! I loved it! I loved all the quirks of the characters. And there was good Christian content thrown in. I loved that Boone named his cat “Dog” and his chicken “Goose” This story also includes a snowball fight. I loved that Kate loved coffee and Boone made the best coffee. Kate and Boone were a great couple.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Content: she is stranded in the cold unconscious and he has to change her clothes for survival, she falls in the shower and he has to help her but she is covered with the shower curtain
What an adorable story! I loved it! I loved all the quirks of the characters. And there was good Christian content thrown in. I loved that Boone named his cat “Dog” and his chicken “Goose” This story also includes a snowball fight. I loved that Kate loved coffee and Boone made the best coffee. Kate and Boone were a great couple.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Content: she is stranded in the cold unconscious and he has to change her clothes for survival, she falls in the shower and he has to help her but she is covered with the shower curtain
December 7, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I enjoyed reading this short novella. It was sweet, cozy, and perfect for the Christmas reading. I liked that Kendall integrated faith elements in a subtle way that didn’t feel forced but weaved it into the story. Loved Boone and related to Kate and her need to self sabotage and doubt. I also loved that the characters where older than the usual, mid 20s.
Some of my favorite lines were:
“Age is just a number that sometimes keeps us from believing there’s anything left for us because the world continually informs us that our number isn’t small enough. It’s one place where the wolf believes less is more.”
“Just because you have had live yet, doesn’t mean you won’t. Love doesn’t have an expiration date. Not having it and not in losing it.”
“It’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman. And you are bigger than a blizzard.”
Read this if you like:
Cozy, Christmas feel good feelings
Clean romance (just kissing)
Some light Christian themes of hope, faith & prayer
Your main characters are older than the age of 35.
Thank you to Shelbey Kendall for allowing me to be on the ARC team!
I enjoyed reading this short novella. It was sweet, cozy, and perfect for the Christmas reading. I liked that Kendall integrated faith elements in a subtle way that didn’t feel forced but weaved it into the story. Loved Boone and related to Kate and her need to self sabotage and doubt. I also loved that the characters where older than the usual, mid 20s.
Some of my favorite lines were:
“Age is just a number that sometimes keeps us from believing there’s anything left for us because the world continually informs us that our number isn’t small enough. It’s one place where the wolf believes less is more.”
“Just because you have had live yet, doesn’t mean you won’t. Love doesn’t have an expiration date. Not having it and not in losing it.”
“It’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman. And you are bigger than a blizzard.”
Read this if you like:
Cozy, Christmas feel good feelings
Clean romance (just kissing)
Some light Christian themes of hope, faith & prayer
Your main characters are older than the age of 35.
Thank you to Shelbey Kendall for allowing me to be on the ARC team!
December 12, 2024
I give this 4.5 out of 5 stars. Since Goodreads doesn’t allow half-stars, I rounded up.
What a sweet, timely romance. I enjoyed Shelbey Kendall’s storytelling in this novella, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. She managed to create some delightful characters beyond just the main two. I would gladly read a spin-off about Genovia and Miranda (who, despite being a car, has a hilarious personality all her own).
I don’t normally enjoy Christian fiction, but this story integrated faith elements in such a natural, organic way, it didn’t feel overbearing or cheesy. It felt realistic.
For such a short story, Kate’s character grows just enough to be reasonable. Meanwhile, let’s be real, Boone is already perfect. I’m kidding. He does have some healing to undergo, but aren’t we all suckers for a strong, heartbroken man (as long as they’re fictional)?
My only complaint about the writing is that there is a little too much telling instead of showing. It seemed at times that Kendall doesn’t trust her audience to buy into her characters, their reasoning, or the validity in their brokenness. It feels at different points that she sees the need to explain away or justify her characters’ decision-making or choices. But she should have confidence in her writing because she provided enough information and backstory about her characters that made their actions and reasoning completely understandable and relatable without needing to justify or over-explain any of it.
Overall, I found myself smiling throughout the story, and I sighed with contentment by the end of it. It’s a cozy, satisfying read for a wintry day. It’s the perfect length and has two main characters one can easily escape with for a few hours. Makes me wish I was snowed-in right now…
What a sweet, timely romance. I enjoyed Shelbey Kendall’s storytelling in this novella, and I look forward to reading more of her work in the future. She managed to create some delightful characters beyond just the main two. I would gladly read a spin-off about Genovia and Miranda (who, despite being a car, has a hilarious personality all her own).
I don’t normally enjoy Christian fiction, but this story integrated faith elements in such a natural, organic way, it didn’t feel overbearing or cheesy. It felt realistic.
For such a short story, Kate’s character grows just enough to be reasonable. Meanwhile, let’s be real, Boone is already perfect. I’m kidding. He does have some healing to undergo, but aren’t we all suckers for a strong, heartbroken man (as long as they’re fictional)?
My only complaint about the writing is that there is a little too much telling instead of showing. It seemed at times that Kendall doesn’t trust her audience to buy into her characters, their reasoning, or the validity in their brokenness. It feels at different points that she sees the need to explain away or justify her characters’ decision-making or choices. But she should have confidence in her writing because she provided enough information and backstory about her characters that made their actions and reasoning completely understandable and relatable without needing to justify or over-explain any of it.
Overall, I found myself smiling throughout the story, and I sighed with contentment by the end of it. It’s a cozy, satisfying read for a wintry day. It’s the perfect length and has two main characters one can easily escape with for a few hours. Makes me wish I was snowed-in right now…
December 9, 2024
I feel like I was skimming the first couple chapters…as it felt a bit too wordy and I was unsure if this author would be for me. But very quickly that stance changed. Her writing is so beautiful and heartfelt, I don’t think I’ve read anything like it.
I cried off and on through the story, and perhaps it hit grief in my own life, but such a beautiful short story that shows God and his redemptive nature . 🥰
I cried off and on through the story, and perhaps it hit grief in my own life, but such a beautiful short story that shows God and his redemptive nature . 🥰
November 22, 2024
Cozy. Christmas. Christian. Clean. 4 words that accurately describe this book! I loved it! I read it all in one sitting and it was worth it!
So thankful I got to be part of the early read club. 😍
Now…… I want to go find myself a delicious gingerbread latte!
So thankful I got to be part of the early read club. 😍
Now…… I want to go find myself a delicious gingerbread latte!
November 22, 2024
Witty banter and Millennial nostalgia drew me right in.
I loved the feisty Kate right off the bat. She has an independent attitude and doesn’t let failure stop her. Boone is a cinnamon roll MMC who has overcome a lot and has turned to God for peace. As Kate and Boone get to know each other, he softens her armor and helps her to see she is worthy.
This was a perfect novella read for a calm winter day! I enjoyed the witty banter and the fun millennial references thrown in.
This was given to me as an ARC and I truly enjoyed every minute reading it. Thank you so much!
I loved the feisty Kate right off the bat. She has an independent attitude and doesn’t let failure stop her. Boone is a cinnamon roll MMC who has overcome a lot and has turned to God for peace. As Kate and Boone get to know each other, he softens her armor and helps her to see she is worthy.
This was a perfect novella read for a calm winter day! I enjoyed the witty banter and the fun millennial references thrown in.
This was given to me as an ARC and I truly enjoyed every minute reading it. Thank you so much!
January 7, 2026
This one was just all right for me. I had a hard time with both main characters and couldn’t connect with the story or dialogue in general. I don’t think I’m the audience for this style of sense of humor.
I stopped at the 54% mark and decided to DNF. Probably a 2.5 star read for me, but rounding up to 3 for Goodreads.
I stopped at the 54% mark and decided to DNF. Probably a 2.5 star read for me, but rounding up to 3 for Goodreads.
January 18, 2026
The beginning of this book was hilarious. I definitely liked the sense of humor. However, it wasn’t my favorite Christmas read. I liked that the MMC prayed for the FMC, but it bugged me that he never asked her about her personal relationship with Christ. Ever. We hear some about it (it’s vague tbh) in her thoughts since it’s first person. However, it always rubs me wrong when a clearly Christian character romantically pursues someone and they don’t know if they are Christian or not. Also, it’s a novella, and the romance felt rushed.
This book isn’t horrible. I liked parts of it. If you want a “Hallmark” feel story, you may enjoy reading it.
This book isn’t horrible. I liked parts of it. If you want a “Hallmark” feel story, you may enjoy reading it.
November 25, 2024
Loved it, Absolutely Loved it! I’m buying a paperback too. I recommend you read this adorable Christmas romance! ☕️❄️🐓🎄
December 1, 2024
I was hooked in the first chapter with Kate getting caught in a blizzard and Boone rescuing her and them getting snowed in at his cabin. The writing is so descriptive the story really plays out in your mind like a movie. Boone is the sweetest, cinnamon roll MMC and the more you learn of his back story the more you love him even more. Kate is hyped up on too much caffeine and sometimes made my brain hurt with all of her chattering but Boone’s calm evened it out. 😆
This truly is the sweetest Christmas novella that could be a Hallmark movie. ❤️ It has all of the Christmas and winter vibes, snowed in a small cabin with lots of coffee. It is written so beautifully and well done. Shelbey Kendall has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I can’t wait for her to add more to the romance genre.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
☕️ Single POV
☕️ Light Christian themes
☕️ Characters with depth and back stories
☕️ Older MCs - ages 37 & 41
☕️ The shower scene (it’s not what you think 😜)
☕️ He threatens to hold her coffee hostage
☕️ He prays over her while she’s sleeping 🥰
☕️ A cat named Dog & a chicken named Goose
☕️ The chicken coop
☕️ Cooking lessons
☕️ Freshly cut Christmas tree 🎄
☕️ Snowball fight
☕️ Santa Secrets under the tree
☕️ Pottery wheel
☕️ The porch swing
☕️ The epilogue 🥹
𝘐𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘯𝘰-𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘤𝘰𝘮, 𝘤𝘰𝘻𝘺 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭-𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴.
𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐜 𝟔!!! 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦!!
This truly is the sweetest Christmas novella that could be a Hallmark movie. ❤️ It has all of the Christmas and winter vibes, snowed in a small cabin with lots of coffee. It is written so beautifully and well done. Shelbey Kendall has quickly become one of my favorite authors and I can’t wait for her to add more to the romance genre.
𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙:
☕️ Single POV
☕️ Light Christian themes
☕️ Characters with depth and back stories
☕️ Older MCs - ages 37 & 41
☕️ The shower scene (it’s not what you think 😜)
☕️ He threatens to hold her coffee hostage
☕️ He prays over her while she’s sleeping 🥰
☕️ A cat named Dog & a chicken named Goose
☕️ The chicken coop
☕️ Cooking lessons
☕️ Freshly cut Christmas tree 🎄
☕️ Snowball fight
☕️ Santa Secrets under the tree
☕️ Pottery wheel
☕️ The porch swing
☕️ The epilogue 🥹
𝘐𝘵 𝘊𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘏𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘉𝘦𝘦𝘯 𝘎𝘳𝘦𝘢𝘵 𝘪𝘴 𝘢 𝘯𝘰-𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘦, 𝘳𝘰𝘮𝘤𝘰𝘮, 𝘤𝘰𝘻𝘺 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 𝘯𝘰𝘷𝘦𝘭𝘭𝘢 𝘸𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘭𝘰𝘵𝘴 𝘰𝘧 𝘧𝘦𝘦𝘭-𝘨𝘰𝘰𝘥 𝘸𝘢𝘳𝘮𝘵𝘩 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘭𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘪𝘢𝘯 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘮𝘦𝘴.
𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭 𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐬 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐝𝐞𝐛𝐮𝐭 𝐫𝐨𝐦𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐧𝐨𝐯𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐚 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐒𝐡𝐞𝐥𝐛𝐞𝐲 𝐊𝐞𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐨𝐧 𝐃𝐞𝐜 𝟔!!! 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐤 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐚𝐥𝐥𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐦𝐞 𝐭𝐨 𝐛𝐞 𝐨𝐧 𝐲𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐭𝐞𝐚𝐦!!
December 6, 2024
This single POV Christmas time inspired novella read like a hallmark movie!
Kate, a crazed character with an intense addiction to coffee finds herself stuck in a blizzard. Why? Coffee, of course! Then along comes our hero of the story…a mighty fine lumberjack looking catch, Boone. And let’s be honest…he’s practically the perfect specimen of a man. (Just wait until you get to chapter twelve!) Boone saves Kate from the frigid temps by taking her back to his cabin. It’s a mix of forced proximity and slow burn as they get to know each other better! The sweetest little rom-com with witty banter, learning of new skills, and discovering deeper truths about themselves.
Both characters were easy to love with and had you rooting for them to figure their relationship out sooner. My favorite quote of the book was when Boone told Kate, “Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.” *SWOON*
I gave the book 4 stars - but it’s really a 4.5! I’m only subtracting .5 from the 5 star - because there was a few moments of what appeared to be over-explanation. Too much backstory in areas where the gist was a given assumption by the reader, if the reader was truly paying attention. Other than that, this book was written very well.
This was an easy read. All the fuzzy heartwarming feelings with zero spice and zero cursing. A true Christmas treat!
Thanks again, Shelbey, for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader on this debut. Can’t wait to see what else you create in the future!
Kate, a crazed character with an intense addiction to coffee finds herself stuck in a blizzard. Why? Coffee, of course! Then along comes our hero of the story…a mighty fine lumberjack looking catch, Boone. And let’s be honest…he’s practically the perfect specimen of a man. (Just wait until you get to chapter twelve!) Boone saves Kate from the frigid temps by taking her back to his cabin. It’s a mix of forced proximity and slow burn as they get to know each other better! The sweetest little rom-com with witty banter, learning of new skills, and discovering deeper truths about themselves.
Both characters were easy to love with and had you rooting for them to figure their relationship out sooner. My favorite quote of the book was when Boone told Kate, “Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.” *SWOON*
I gave the book 4 stars - but it’s really a 4.5! I’m only subtracting .5 from the 5 star - because there was a few moments of what appeared to be over-explanation. Too much backstory in areas where the gist was a given assumption by the reader, if the reader was truly paying attention. Other than that, this book was written very well.
This was an easy read. All the fuzzy heartwarming feelings with zero spice and zero cursing. A true Christmas treat!
Thanks again, Shelbey, for allowing me the opportunity to be an ARC reader on this debut. Can’t wait to see what else you create in the future!
November 25, 2024
This was my first novella and I didn’t know what to expect. I figured that it wouldn’t be enough since it would be in the shorter side. I was wrong, so wrong. This is a perfect Christmas read. I cried. I laughed out loud (several times). I had “awwww” moments, and moments of “ooooph, that’s relatable.” This book was perfect and I have never craved coffee so much while reading a book before. Shelbey nailed nostalgia and making me to long to know more about Kate and Boone and why they are the way they are. I loved the way it made me swoon for the romance but yet so discreet. You might hear Kate and Boone being talked about, but Miranda and Goose are just as important in my opinion.
December 4, 2025
The absolute cutest Christmas novella to read during the holidays — specially with a cup of hot chocolate and being snowed in!! ❄️
Everything about this story screams Luke & Lorelai in the best way. With the quick wit, humor and slow but still quick burn, it was so cozy and beautiful. Shelbey is a phenomenal writer and I just loved being stuck in this little snow globe with Boone & Kate (Dog & Goose as well 😏)!!
The quickest, cutest story!! 🎄
Everything about this story screams Luke & Lorelai in the best way. With the quick wit, humor and slow but still quick burn, it was so cozy and beautiful. Shelbey is a phenomenal writer and I just loved being stuck in this little snow globe with Boone & Kate (Dog & Goose as well 😏)!!
The quickest, cutest story!! 🎄
November 25, 2024
I LOVED THIS BOOK! I am always hesitant to read novellas because I (used to) believe they can't possibly contain a worthwhile story. Boy was I wrong! This story has it all with lovable and relatable characters, the perfect balance of hilarious and serious, and of course a lovely happily ever after. I'm looking forward to reading more from this author! Oh and now I will give other novellas a chance.
December 6, 2025
5⭐️ the only complaint I have is that I wish it was longer 😭😭 I loved this story so so much and the Christian themes throughout! Such a sweet (and swoony) story. Sweet, sweet Boone was my favorite and I loved Kate’s personality so much. 🥹
November 22, 2024
So cute. So cozy. I loved the main characters so much. I loved the way Boone clearly enjoyed Kate’s personality. I loved how the third act breakup wasn’t a case of everyone misunderstanding a glaringly obvious situation, but instead was due to a very real fear/trauma response. I only wish I had alllll the lattes to sip while I was reading!
Thank you to Shelbey for sending me the arc - be looking for the release on December 6!
Thank you to Shelbey for sending me the arc - be looking for the release on December 6!
November 28, 2024
Sweet, romantic, cozy Christmas novella. Highly enjoyed this story. Kate was such a fun main character and loved watching her grow and overcome her fears and learn to let people in and love her. Highly recommend, the perfect season read.
December 6, 2024
This was such a fun read for the holiday season! The characters were fun and I loved how they were two unlikely people brought together. I often found myself laughing and I just wanted to snuggle up by a fire while reading it. I loved the Christian elements and the sweet romance. It was a quick, cozy holiday read!
January 4, 2026
This little novella was just a treat! He rescues her, snowed in, some good awkward laughs, healing, being seen, and the sweetest ending! I loved the light faith elements woven in too.
TW: Past Loss, Car Accident (Nothing graphic/tragic on page)
TW: Past Loss, Car Accident (Nothing graphic/tragic on page)
April 17, 2025
Hands down one of my favorite reads this year, it has everything a cozy Christmas story should. I absolutely loved the characters and their development, the dynamic and everything else.
Kate is such a spunky character, and at one point I wanted to jump into the book and talk some sense into her, she really struggled seeing her self worth at first, and I'm so glad she accepted something better for herself. I truly thought she was an amazing character.
Boone made me cry on multiple occasions, and the fact that he makes pottery was simply perfect. I loved loved his backstory, and how beautifully his (and her!) past was interwoven with the present. The timing of them finding each other, and how they both filled a void the other had, oh my goodness. I really cannot give this book enough praise to do it justice. Kendall has a beautiful way with words that draws you into to story, expertly combining elements of faith and hope with loss and hurt, but ofc it is a HEA.
A must have for the Christmas season!
Kate is such a spunky character, and at one point I wanted to jump into the book and talk some sense into her, she really struggled seeing her self worth at first, and I'm so glad she accepted something better for herself. I truly thought she was an amazing character.
Boone made me cry on multiple occasions, and the fact that he makes pottery was simply perfect. I loved loved his backstory, and how beautifully his (and her!) past was interwoven with the present. The timing of them finding each other, and how they both filled a void the other had, oh my goodness. I really cannot give this book enough praise to do it justice. Kendall has a beautiful way with words that draws you into to story, expertly combining elements of faith and hope with loss and hurt, but ofc it is a HEA.
A must have for the Christmas season!
December 12, 2024
Overall, a fun little Christian Christmas romance, but there were a couple of moments that took me out of the book.
The first was I forgot this was an inspirational novel and so I was just completely shocked when halfway through the book the MMC started talking about God. Very jarring with no set up.
And the second was when he snuck into her room at night to pray over her. Like, it was super Edward/Bella creepy (with fewer sparkly vampires)
Even with those moments, I generally liked the novel: a woman who has been told she's 'too much' so often she believes it, and a man who thinks she's exactly as she should be hit perfectly.
The first was I forgot this was an inspirational novel and so I was just completely shocked when halfway through the book the MMC started talking about God. Very jarring with no set up.
And the second was when he snuck into her room at night to pray over her. Like, it was super Edward/Bella creepy (with fewer sparkly vampires)
Even with those moments, I generally liked the novel: a woman who has been told she's 'too much' so often she believes it, and a man who thinks she's exactly as she should be hit perfectly.
November 26, 2024
I’m just a woman, that shouldn’t kiss a man because I’m snowed in with him.
“You are an interesting woman, Kate.” “Interesting in a good way?” I question, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “I haven’t yet decided,” he admits. “You’re interesting, too,” I shoot back. “Interesting in a good way?” he asks. “I haven’t yet decided,” I repeat with a small shoulder shrug and a smile.
“Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.
I’m absolutely at a loss for words to describe just how much I loved "It Could Have Been Great!" There are no letters on a page that can truly capture the depth of my feelings for this novella. From the very first page, I was swept away by Kate and Boone's story, and now that I’ve finished, I’m not sure I’m ready to move on. I feel like I’m still snowed in with Kate and Boone, wanting to hold onto every magical moment a little longer. From the moments under the Christmas tree to the snowball fights, cooking lessons, "goose" attack , and so much more, THIS story was just everything!
And Boone, oh Boone... his prayers were everything. Kate’s journey, with her stubbornness (determined to do it all alone) and caffeine addiction, totally felt like something I could relate to. She’s always thinking she’s "too much" for anyone, but her honesty and vulnerability made me root for her from the very start. Boone saw through her chattiness and understood what she was really scared of—he was there for her, and gosh, did he listen! His quiet strength and the simple power of his smile not only gave Kate an unexpected sense of peace but also helped him heal from the loss of his wife. Being around her allowed him to start moving on, and their connection slowly brought him the comfort he’d been missing. But what happens when the Blizzard passes, and you aren't confined to the rustic cabin, and the roaring fire? Can this moment in time last forever?!
This is a novella, so I don’t want to share too much... but can I just say—do yourself a favor and carve out some time over the next month to READ THIS STORY. It’s a MUST-READ for the season ahead!
Santa Secret: Yes, I received a complimentary copy of this book, but no, that did not influence my review. The 5 stars were absolutely earned, and I would happily read this same book over and over again!
“You are an interesting woman, Kate.” “Interesting in a good way?” I question, tucking a loose strand of hair behind my ear. “I haven’t yet decided,” he admits. “You’re interesting, too,” I shoot back. “Interesting in a good way?” he asks. “I haven’t yet decided,” I repeat with a small shoulder shrug and a smile.
“Kate, it’s not that you are too much. It’s that they weren’t enough. Don’t let small men make you wish you were a smaller woman.
I’m absolutely at a loss for words to describe just how much I loved "It Could Have Been Great!" There are no letters on a page that can truly capture the depth of my feelings for this novella. From the very first page, I was swept away by Kate and Boone's story, and now that I’ve finished, I’m not sure I’m ready to move on. I feel like I’m still snowed in with Kate and Boone, wanting to hold onto every magical moment a little longer. From the moments under the Christmas tree to the snowball fights, cooking lessons, "goose" attack , and so much more, THIS story was just everything!
And Boone, oh Boone... his prayers were everything. Kate’s journey, with her stubbornness (determined to do it all alone) and caffeine addiction, totally felt like something I could relate to. She’s always thinking she’s "too much" for anyone, but her honesty and vulnerability made me root for her from the very start. Boone saw through her chattiness and understood what she was really scared of—he was there for her, and gosh, did he listen! His quiet strength and the simple power of his smile not only gave Kate an unexpected sense of peace but also helped him heal from the loss of his wife. Being around her allowed him to start moving on, and their connection slowly brought him the comfort he’d been missing. But what happens when the Blizzard passes, and you aren't confined to the rustic cabin, and the roaring fire? Can this moment in time last forever?!
This is a novella, so I don’t want to share too much... but can I just say—do yourself a favor and carve out some time over the next month to READ THIS STORY. It’s a MUST-READ for the season ahead!
Santa Secret: Yes, I received a complimentary copy of this book, but no, that did not influence my review. The 5 stars were absolutely earned, and I would happily read this same book over and over again!
December 4, 2024
When Katherine Center writes her own review on her own (fabulous, of course) book, she gives permission to all authors out there to give their own book the love and praise it deserves. The truth is writing a story and sharing it with the world is hard. And yet, here we are...having the audacity to do so.
So, I'd love to write a love letter of sorts to my first published romance, and plan to do this from now on.
To "It Could Have Been Great", and subsequently...Kate, Boone, Goose, Miranda, G, and Dog,
It's been an absolute delight writing your story this year. Yes, it was short as novellas usually are, but it was full of so much heart, and laughter, and absolute sunshine. I smiled through writing your story and cried my way through certain scenes where I left pieces of myself within your pages.
I wrote what I needed in this season. I needed to feel seen. I needed to feel warmth. I needed Boone's prayers and faith. I needed Kate's spunk and chattering honesty. I needed to be snowed in somewhere where possibility was at my fingertips and secrets were whispered under a Christmas tree.
Thank you for being the words I found, the characters who became friends, and the smile I needed as I wrote your story.
It wasn't just a "could have" for me. Writing this story was great. Is great. Is the beginning of something that I can't wait to continue.
Whether your story makes others smile or not...you made me smile, and that's honestly enough.
Thank you.
Five stars.
Highly recommend.
(Yes, I'm biased because Kate and Boone and Goose and Dog and G and Miranda are all friends of mine, and I highly recommend that you get to know them like I do.)
Love,
Shelbey
P.S. Don't read if you don't like really good Hallmark movies that make you feel all the warmth without the spice. There is way more emotional swoon in this than physical.
So, I'd love to write a love letter of sorts to my first published romance, and plan to do this from now on.
To "It Could Have Been Great", and subsequently...Kate, Boone, Goose, Miranda, G, and Dog,
It's been an absolute delight writing your story this year. Yes, it was short as novellas usually are, but it was full of so much heart, and laughter, and absolute sunshine. I smiled through writing your story and cried my way through certain scenes where I left pieces of myself within your pages.
I wrote what I needed in this season. I needed to feel seen. I needed to feel warmth. I needed Boone's prayers and faith. I needed Kate's spunk and chattering honesty. I needed to be snowed in somewhere where possibility was at my fingertips and secrets were whispered under a Christmas tree.
Thank you for being the words I found, the characters who became friends, and the smile I needed as I wrote your story.
It wasn't just a "could have" for me. Writing this story was great. Is great. Is the beginning of something that I can't wait to continue.
Whether your story makes others smile or not...you made me smile, and that's honestly enough.
Thank you.
Five stars.
Highly recommend.
(Yes, I'm biased because Kate and Boone and Goose and Dog and G and Miranda are all friends of mine, and I highly recommend that you get to know them like I do.)
Love,
Shelbey
P.S. Don't read if you don't like really good Hallmark movies that make you feel all the warmth without the spice. There is way more emotional swoon in this than physical.
December 24, 2024
Oh my goodness, such a fun little Christmas read! I absolutely adored the characters. As a big girl with a big personality and the inability to ever keep a thought or joke inside my head, I feel like I take up a lot of space both literally and figuratively. The concept of being both too much and not enough resonates so deeply for me. I have also lost a parent who I viewed as my favorite person and my best friend rounding out the character connection to Kate for me.
I love nothing more than a romance story with a bit of wit, beige flags, and good examples of healthy communication! A little toxicity can make a story intriguing for sure but it often makes a story seem immature and I just think I'm too old for all the drama these days! I thought the romance was written to portray what genuine love should feel like and I am so here for it! The acknowledgement that love is meant to make you feel seen, understood, and accepted was intricately woven into the storyline! The structure of the story and the authors ability to tie every plot point up in a nice little package and serve it right back to you on a silver platter, with no detail spared, was mhmm "chef's kiss!"
If I had any complaint at all it would simply be that I wish it was longer. I think the nature of it being a novella maybe pushed it to give just a bit of an insta-love feeling but because it was written through such an emotionally mature lens it did still read as if the characters were able to develop genuine feelings even following a quick timeline. Overall, I just had fun reading it and that's what I want the most from a book!
I love nothing more than a romance story with a bit of wit, beige flags, and good examples of healthy communication! A little toxicity can make a story intriguing for sure but it often makes a story seem immature and I just think I'm too old for all the drama these days! I thought the romance was written to portray what genuine love should feel like and I am so here for it! The acknowledgement that love is meant to make you feel seen, understood, and accepted was intricately woven into the storyline! The structure of the story and the authors ability to tie every plot point up in a nice little package and serve it right back to you on a silver platter, with no detail spared, was mhmm "chef's kiss!"
If I had any complaint at all it would simply be that I wish it was longer. I think the nature of it being a novella maybe pushed it to give just a bit of an insta-love feeling but because it was written through such an emotionally mature lens it did still read as if the characters were able to develop genuine feelings even following a quick timeline. Overall, I just had fun reading it and that's what I want the most from a book!
December 17, 2025
What a cute novella! Boone rescued Kate from a car accident during a blizzard, forcing them to be snowed in. The forced proximity brings out lots of attraction and good conversations. There are lots of tender moments.
Favorite parts:
-the chickens
-all the food Kate makes
-Boone’s prayer
-the Christmas decorations
Favorite Quotes:
But what doesn’t leave me is that Boone just told God I was special.
Out loud.
And I don’t know what to do with that. I haven’t felt special in a long time. Not to anyone. Not even to myself. And if Boone thinks I’m special, then he’s not trying to figure out if I’m interesting. He already thinks I am, and that’s a problem because if I’m honest with myself, I’m not trying to figure out if Boone is interesting either. He is.
“This would be easier if you were just doing it yourself, wouldn’t it?” I ask quietly.
“Easier? Yes. But then I wouldn’t get to have my arms wrapped around you, sharing this moment,” he answers without any hesitation. “I like my arms around you.”
Favorite parts:
-the chickens
-all the food Kate makes
-Boone’s prayer
-the Christmas decorations
Favorite Quotes:
But what doesn’t leave me is that Boone just told God I was special.
Out loud.
And I don’t know what to do with that. I haven’t felt special in a long time. Not to anyone. Not even to myself. And if Boone thinks I’m special, then he’s not trying to figure out if I’m interesting. He already thinks I am, and that’s a problem because if I’m honest with myself, I’m not trying to figure out if Boone is interesting either. He is.
“This would be easier if you were just doing it yourself, wouldn’t it?” I ask quietly.
“Easier? Yes. But then I wouldn’t get to have my arms wrapped around you, sharing this moment,” he answers without any hesitation. “I like my arms around you.”
December 6, 2024
MUST READ
Wow. I’ve been trying to find the words for this review for days. My ONLY complaint is that I want more...A sequel maybe??? I'd love to hear about Kate and Boone's life after the fact.
This story had me on edge the whole time, but not in a bad way. In the way that I was so excited to see how the story played out. I laughed and smiled through the whole story...I even shed a few tears while relating to the main character in some ways.
Truly, this is a very well-written story. This is a book I'll add to the shelf for my daughter to read when she's older. There are no inappropriate scenes or anything I'd be ashamed to have her read. I'm so thankful for Shelbey's heart behind writing stories appropriate for all ages.
Wow. I’ve been trying to find the words for this review for days. My ONLY complaint is that I want more...A sequel maybe??? I'd love to hear about Kate and Boone's life after the fact.
This story had me on edge the whole time, but not in a bad way. In the way that I was so excited to see how the story played out. I laughed and smiled through the whole story...I even shed a few tears while relating to the main character in some ways.
Truly, this is a very well-written story. This is a book I'll add to the shelf for my daughter to read when she's older. There are no inappropriate scenes or anything I'd be ashamed to have her read. I'm so thankful for Shelbey's heart behind writing stories appropriate for all ages.
December 10, 2024
It Could Have Been Great
I loved Kate and her blatantly honesty! I love the banter between the two, and I love how Boone is just the sweetest. Shelby Kendall is a new to me author, and if her other books are this good, I'll be sure to read them.
There is no swearing or alcohol in this book. There is level 1 non-descriptive kissing only and no further.
It is a truly clean romcom with heart, feels, laughs, and lots of coffee. There are light Christian themes as the characters are Christian and have faith, but there is no preaching. There is also loss of a loved one in the past.
I loved Kate and her blatantly honesty! I love the banter between the two, and I love how Boone is just the sweetest. Shelby Kendall is a new to me author, and if her other books are this good, I'll be sure to read them.
There is no swearing or alcohol in this book. There is level 1 non-descriptive kissing only and no further.
It is a truly clean romcom with heart, feels, laughs, and lots of coffee. There are light Christian themes as the characters are Christian and have faith, but there is no preaching. There is also loss of a loved one in the past.
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