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Not Like Christmas At All

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From best selling author A.R. Rose comes a STANDALONE feel good holiday romance

It’s been nearly sixty years since San Diego last saw snow in the city, and of course history repeats itself my first Christmas working at the hospital.

Stressed, exhausted, and hanging on by a thread, the last thing I want to do in the weeks leading up to my favorite holiday is increase my hours, but it seems like every emergency in this city has come through our doors.

Doctor Lincoln Stokes is the thorn in my side and the reason my Christmas cheer is utterly tanked, even though he makes the sugar plum fairies in my stomach dance every time he’s near. He’s all work, no play, and for reasons unknown, can’t freaking stand me.

But that sounds like a him problem, because festive is my middle name, and if we all have to be stuck under these terrible fluorescent hospital lights this holiday season, the least I can do is add a little garland to the mix.

The last thing I expect on Christmas morning is to wake up at the hospital as a patient. And imagine my surprise when my eyes flutter open and the man sleeping in the chair beside me is him.

Now, I can’t help but wonder if the Christmas magic has made Doctor Stokes’ heart grow a few sizes for me.

148 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 6, 2025

15 people are currently reading
109 people want to read

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A.R. Rose

16 books264 followers

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5 stars
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28 (22%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
Profile Image for Michellelovesreading.
1,485 reviews178 followers
November 6, 2025
This was a cute Christmas novella. I finished it in a couple days.

Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️
Profile Image for Brittany Abshari.
94 reviews
November 3, 2025
I received this as an ARC read and it did not disappoint!

This is such a cute holiday book with hallmark vibes.
Enemy’s to lovers and all the feels.
Smutty enough to make it gripping, I finished this short novella in about an hour.

I cannot wait to read whatever comes next for Lincoln and Genesis. This one ended too soon!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rileyreads11_.
355 reviews19 followers
November 6, 2025
Another amazing book for A.R! I loved Gen and Lincoln’s story so much! Gen is the sunshine who loves Christmas and Lincoln is the grump!! Gen thinks Lincoln hates her but really he’s been trying to hid his feeling for her!! This story was so cute and such a good holiday read! I can’t wait for more from A.R
Profile Image for Heather Duty.
189 reviews20 followers
November 10, 2025
This Cozy, Steamy Hallmark read was so good! I love the warm fuzzies and spice was just right! Perfect short read to get you in the holiday spirit and make you feel all the feels! Loved it!
36 reviews1 follower
November 7, 2025
This holiday novella is so good. A grumpy doctor that has a bit of a soft side (who am I kidding, a huge soft side) for the bright bubbly nurse. The spice in this book is so good the slow burn fantastic. Definitely a quick read to get your holiday season started. Oh and the sneak peek of stealing forever!?! Yes please, I can’t wait to read this!!
Profile Image for Ashley.
39 reviews4 followers
January 1, 2026
Not Like Christmas at All by A.R. Rose

ARC review. I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.

This book completely worked for me. Not Like Christmas at All is a holiday workplace romance that leans hard into emotions, quiet longing, and finally saying the things that have been left unsaid for far too long.

Genesis and Lincoln’s story is a classic hidden-feelings romance done right. You can feel the tension simmering under the surface, that sense of “almost” and “what if,” until it all comes to a head after a tragic turning point. When the truth finally spills out, it feels earned, tender, and deeply satisfying.

One thing I really loved was Genesis as a narrator. At times, it felt like she was speaking directly to the reader, pulling you into her thoughts and emotions in a very intimate way. It made the story feel personal, like you were confiding in a friend rather than just reading a romance.

The spice level is on the lighter side, with more suggestion than explicit detail, which fit the tone of the story perfectly. This book is much more about emotional connection, timing, and vulnerability than heat alone.

Overall, this was a heartfelt, cozy-but-emotional holiday romance that surprised me in the best way. If you love workplace romances, slow-burn hidden feelings, and holiday stories with real emotional weight, this one is absolutely worth picking up. 🎄📖
Profile Image for Keri.
106 reviews1 follower
November 5, 2025
Following the events of I Really Can't Stay but focusing on different characters, Not Like Christmas At All is a short and sweet story about Genesis (Zee's best friend, a beautiful, fun-loving, and hard-working nurse who loves all things Christmas) and Lincoln (Miller's cousin, a handsome, stubborn, and thoughtful doctor who may or may not be obsessed with her but definitely not Christmas). Taking place at the hospital where Genesis and Lincoln both work (and rile each other up), this book has the right amount of heart, heat, and humor, not to mention fun and tantalizing enemies-to-lovers and forbidden workplace romance vibes, as well as lots of Christmas spirit.

Genesis and Lincoln are so darn cute together, and I loved reading more about beloved characters from I Really Can't Stay (not only Zee and Miller but also Tina and Tim) and meeting Genesis's funny and loving family (including the adorable Pebbles). Moreover, I love the message that life is too short not to do the things that scare us (e.g., confess our love for someone even if it could end in disaster). A.R. Rose always writes engaging books with likable, relatable characters that manage to be heartwarming and steamy, and after devouring Not Like Christmas At All, I can't wait to read her next holiday romance.
Profile Image for Marissa.
130 reviews
November 9, 2025
Not Like Christmas At All is a sweet and heart-warming festive romance that captures the magic of the holidays in all the best ways.

Genesis is a nurse who adores Christmas and always finds ways to bring cheer to those around her. Doctor Lincoln Stokes, on the other hand, seems distant and uninterested. When Genesis takes a chance on a dating app, life takes an unexpected turn that may just help both of them see what has been there all along.

This story is tender, funny, and full of genuine warmth. I felt connected to Genesis and her journey, and I loved how the author balanced light-hearted moments with heartfelt emotion. The romance sparkled, the spice was spicy, the writing flowed beautifully, and it left me smiling long after I finished reading.

A.R. Rose has created a quick yet indulgent read that feels like a cup of hot chocolate, with a dash of spice, on a cosy night. It is full of love, self-discovery, and a little holiday magic.

I received this book as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
Profile Image for Pricilla.
484 reviews8 followers
November 12, 2025
This is an enjoyable book to read around Christmas. It's a quick read.
Lincoln has a thing for Genesis but has hid it very well. In fact, he has hid it so well that Gen thinks he h8t3s her. He's held himself back because he doesn't want to mess things up for his cousin if it doesn't work out with Gen. Gen is best friends with his cousin's girlfriend. But when Gen gets hurt, Lincoln decides life is too short not to go after what he want.
Gen has a little crush on Lincoln even though she knows he doesn't like her. She does everything to get on his nerves just to get a reaction out of him. With everyone else he is laid back and happy, but not with her. Then she gets hurt and everything changes. She finds out he feels the same. She's just hesitant to believe that it's real. Can he show her that his feelings are real and not just a lapse in judgment?
Profile Image for Maria Franklin.
185 reviews8 followers
November 7, 2025
Okay, this book gave me all the cozy holiday feels with just the right amount of tension and slow-burn chemistry! I adored how the story balanced hospital chaos with those soft, heart-tugging moments that make you believe in a little Christmas magic.
Genesis, a cheerful spirit clashing with Lincoln’s all-business attitude was perfection. I could practically feel the sparks flying between them with every snarky exchange. And when she wakes up on Christmas morning to find him by her side? Instant melted heart. I’m glad Lincoln got his HEA.
It’s festive, heartfelt, and full of charm. The kind of story that makes you want to curl up with hot cocoa, fairy lights, and a blanket that smells like cinnamon. Great job A.R.
Profile Image for Kasie Harvey.
196 reviews6 followers
November 17, 2025
4⭐️ 3🌶
I totally forgot about these characters from I Really Can’t Stay! I didn’t put two and two together until I started reading—DUH! 🤦‍♀️

This story is total opposites attract energy… well, at least when it comes to Christmas. 🎄 Genesis is basically Cindy Lou Who, while Lincoln gives off full-on Grinch vibes. But oh my heart—Lincoln is such a sweetheart underneath it all. You can tell someone hurt that man at some point, and now he hides behind that grumpy exterior.

When it comes to Genesis though, his reasons for keeping up the act actually make sense. Their chemistry? Adorable. Their story? A cute little whirlwind romance that’s absolutely perfect to kick off your holiday reading season! ❤️✨
Profile Image for Lou_lovesreading.
439 reviews12 followers
November 2, 2025
OMG did I love Lincoln - I loved him in I really can’t stay and I loved him in Not like Christmas at all
This was such a feel good holiday novella and I loved Lincoln and Genesis!
I loved their interactions, I loved their relationship and I loved the mini catch up with Zee and Miller
Acting like she is a thorn in his side Genesis is shocked to wake up after a fall to find Lincoln sitting next to her hospital bed and discovering there is a thin line between love and hate!
Great book that I honestly wanted more
Thank you so much to A.R Rose and her team for this eARC in exchange for my honest review
Profile Image for Amber.
89 reviews3 followers
November 7, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Not Like Christmas At All by A.R. Rose

This book gave me all the holiday feels. It’s warm, charming, and just the right mix of cozy and emotional.

A.R. Rose has such a comforting writing style that pulls you in instantly. The chemistry between the characters feels natural and sweet, and the festive setting made it impossible not to smile. There’s a perfect blend of humor, heart, and just a hint of magic that makes it stand out from other Christmas romances.

If you’re craving something that feels like hot cocoa and fairy lights wrapped in a love story, this one deserves a spot on your holiday TBR.
Profile Image for Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour).
1,081 reviews8 followers
November 8, 2025
A grinchy meets holiday obsessed medical romance where Dr. Hottie sure is hiding a lot of feelings really well, Genesis isn’t but accepts Lincoln’s lack of interest, and one little holiday mishap has their romance moving full speed ahead! It’s cute, I love Genesis and her holiday spirit that’s more wrapped around how meaningful and hopeful the season is than anything else, especially given that she’s a nurse and sees everyday how hard it is to be a patient or a family member in a place where sometimes it’s joy and sometimes it’s devastation, and Lincoln dang, when he decides to make a move it is fire. It sizzles, it pops, it’s funny and charming, and it is a fantastic holiday quick read!
Profile Image for Charlotte Mooney.
77 reviews5 followers
November 6, 2025
This was such a cute holiday romance!

Grumpy Doctor with Sunshiney nurse? yes please!

Gen is absolutely over the top Christmas mad and whilst knowing Lincoln from outside of the hospital she's almost certain he hates her as much as he dislikes Christmas. Only Lincoln has a secret he's been keeping since they first met when he had a 'fake' date with Gens best friend.

Can this unexpected turn of events lead to an everlasting romance or just a holiday filled fun time?

Can't recommend this book enough!
Profile Image for Dayton.
488 reviews6 followers
November 7, 2025
4.5 stars!

AHH!

This short novella gave me everything i could want and more in a cozy Christmas holiday read!

She thought he hated her all this time. He’s been obsessed since the moment he laid eyes on her. What happens when he stops fighting his feelings after almost losing her. Gen and Linc are perfection! Their insta chemistry was perfection and when he took her to the roof (BLUSHING)!!!

For a quick read you’ve got plot, fast pace and a great flow!

I’d very much recommend this for anyone looking for a holiday romance read!
Profile Image for Emily Johnston (Booked.Up.With.Emily).
1,588 reviews115 followers
November 11, 2025
Are you looking for a quick and sweet holiday novella? Then look no further! I loved these two so much!

Grumpy x sunshine
Workplace romance
Secret crush

Genesis and Lincoln's romance is so much fun! They have never been friends, despite their besties dating and falling in love. But of course there's a reason for that.

I loved how when the walls came down for them, they really came down and these two fall hard and fast! Gen's absolute love for the Christmas season was so relatable and I loved how she could even turn the grinchy Lincoln!
Profile Image for Tiffani.
305 reviews3 followers
November 14, 2025
Rating: 3 1/2⭐️ 3 1/2🌶️

Lincoln is a Grinch of a doctor. Genesis is a Christmas loving nurse.
They are both just trying to get through working the holidays. When an accident at work lands Genesis in the hospital, Lincoln feels the need to come clean about his feelings for Genesis. After she recovers, she brings him on magical day to show him what spending Christmas with her is like.
This is a cute and spicy, grumpy x sunshine romance. Add in a big helping of holiday cheer and craziness and you have Not Like Christmas at All.
Profile Image for Melissa.
51 reviews3 followers
November 16, 2025
Not Like Christmas At All
By: A.R. Rose
Release date: November 6, 2025
Available Now!

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Holiday Romance
Doctor/Nurse
Grumpy/Sunshine
Workplace
Secret Crush
Novella

Genesis
Lincoln

“It’s a thin line between love and hate” especially between Genesis and Lincoln our Nurse and Dr duo.
Lincoln finally confesses his feelings for our FMC after she takes a lil tumble from putting up decorations at the hospital. She didn’t want to believe it at first. But when they finally figure it all out 🌶️🌶️🌶️. I will never look at Christmas lights the same ever again.
Profile Image for Aimee Shaw.
48 reviews
November 29, 2025
A cute little christmastime novella, so the relationship went from zero to 100 with a few little time jumps sprinkled in. I do think this could have been a full length story and had some more of a burn leading into the storyline. A few parts felt unnecessary where the characters were spending time with other characters that didn’t really build and of the plot or character development and could have been put into that instead or just left out completely. If someones looking for a light, easy christmas read with some spice this will definitely do it for you
Profile Image for SiSi ❤️.
230 reviews13 followers
November 3, 2025
This was a cute and cozy read!

I never really see the name Genesis in books and I liked that. She was also such a sweet character and she had a thing for Christmas as do I so relate to the character on that 🎄

Lincoln was a good character and he just needed Gen in his world for it to be just right. They were such a cute match and just in time for the holidays.

If you're looking for a cute and cozy Christmas read with a dash of spice, this is for you.
Profile Image for Mary (Marysnoveljourney).
392 reviews16 followers
November 5, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

❤️Christmas novella
🎅🏻doctor/ nurse
❤️enemies to lovers
🎅🏻she loves Christmas, he does not

This was such a fun, festive, holiday read! I loved Genesis and Lincoln together! This is the first time I’ve read A.R. rose and I’m hooked.

I loved how into Christmas Genesis was…she was the perfect complement for Lincoln’s grinch personality. These two were so cute together.

Thank you A.R. Rose for the ARC of this book.
Profile Image for Becky Hensley.
383 reviews5 followers
November 6, 2025
I absolutely loved this book; it was a quick holiday read.

Genesis is shocked to wake up after a fall to find Lincoln sitting next to her hospital bed especially when she thinks that he hates her. She then discovers there is a thin line between love and hate! I loved these two together! I highly recommend reading this one!

Christmas novella
doctor/ nurse
enemies to lovers
she loves Christmas, he does not
Profile Image for mrnuina.
153 reviews9 followers
December 1, 2025
Oh how cute this book is! *squeling* so cozy, warm and cute! Felt like christmas! I could smell crhistmas!
Christmas movie with spice, loved everything in this!
Have nothing bad to say, wish that this could have lasted a life time. Every worry in world just melted away while I read this. Characters are lovable and didn’t even hate anyone.
If you want some good feelings and relax, this is the book for you!
Profile Image for Madison.
482 reviews14 followers
November 4, 2025
Ok I loved this! It was the cutest little Christmas book filled with love and warmth.

Genesis (love the unique name) was a really fun character. She was super sweet, loves Christmas and has a crush on Lincoln 😏

Lincoln constantly seemed annoyed by Gen but you just knew he was secretly in love with her 😍

I loved the plot, the characters and of course the spice. Highly recommend this Christmas novella if you want a feel good read.

Thank you to A.R. Rose for the ARC.
Profile Image for Kirsten | Bookish.kir.
693 reviews334 followers
November 7, 2025
You first meet the main characters of this book in I Really Can’t Stay, and while it isn’t necessary to read that one first I would recommend it as, in my opinion, it adds a bit more to the story.

I thought this was super cute read and I loved Lincoln and Genesis together, but I couldn’t help but wish we would have gotten more chapters in Lincoln’s POV throughout. I would still recommend to someone looking for a fun and festive read for the holidays!

Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Megan Henry.
553 reviews14 followers
November 5, 2025
Omg omg omg! I freaking love this book! I love that we see our faves Zee and Miller back again and this time it’s Gen and Lincoln finding love! The perfect read to get you ready for the holiday spirit. Ummmm and the Christmas lights scene….. like yes please! This one was definitely a top read and I can’t wait to see what comes next from AR
Profile Image for Nicole.
600 reviews10 followers
November 6, 2025
This was so cute! I love a medical setting - although no one calls the nurses Nurse so and so. But the chemistry between Gen and Lincoln was great! She’s obsessed with Christmas and he’s trying to hide his true feelings, which turns him into a grump. A work accident forces Lincoln to admit how he feels about Genesis. And it’s just perfect. Sweet and spicy holiday book.
Profile Image for Em.
122 reviews1 follower
November 9, 2025
4.75 stars!
A cute Christmas novella 🎄

Not Like Christmas At Alls FMC is Genesis who is a nursing student and MMC, Lincoln, who is a doctor. They know eachother through work but also through mutual friends and family.

Genesis is convinced Lincoln HATES her but “there’s a fine line between love and hate”. 😏
Profile Image for Brittany Steminist Booknerd.
578 reviews2 followers
December 17, 2025
STEM FMC: nurse; STEM MMC: surgeon
This Christmas novella was ok. It’s a fast read. The pacing was off and their connection felt very thin to me, but the plot was good. Lots of fun spicy times though, you’ve got a little call room action and then some Christmas decor involved. She fit a lot of spice in the second half of this novella.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews

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