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Holly's Jolly Christmas
Lesson one: Don’t ask a stranger for dating advice while drunk.
Lesson two: Don’t fall for your dating coach.
Lesson three: Oops.
My dating life is a disaster. Getting stood up at a bar was far from how I envisioned my night. But when the brooding yet incredibly hot bartender, Mark, keeps pouring me drink after drink, things take an unexpected turn. After a drunken dance and a broken glass, I find myself asking him to become my dating coach.
Mark is completely wrong for me. He's grumpy, a Christmas scrooge, and adamant that he doesn’t want a relationship. He’s only supposed to be helping me navigate the dating world. But what begins as “just friends” quickly becomes nights of ice skating, baking cookies, and late-night conversations that make my heart flutter.
The more time we spend together, the more the chemistry between us crackles. And I start to wonder if maybe... Mark might be exactly what I’ve been looking for all along.
Lesson two: Don’t fall for your dating coach.
Lesson three: Oops.
My dating life is a disaster. Getting stood up at a bar was far from how I envisioned my night. But when the brooding yet incredibly hot bartender, Mark, keeps pouring me drink after drink, things take an unexpected turn. After a drunken dance and a broken glass, I find myself asking him to become my dating coach.
Mark is completely wrong for me. He's grumpy, a Christmas scrooge, and adamant that he doesn’t want a relationship. He’s only supposed to be helping me navigate the dating world. But what begins as “just friends” quickly becomes nights of ice skating, baking cookies, and late-night conversations that make my heart flutter.
The more time we spend together, the more the chemistry between us crackles. And I start to wonder if maybe... Mark might be exactly what I’ve been looking for all along.
298 pages, Paperback
Published November 11, 2024
103 people are currently reading
2936 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Alves
11 books1,195 followersStephanie Alves is an avid reader and writer of smutty, contemporary romance books. She was born in England, but was raised by her loud Portuguese parents. She can speak both languages fluently, though she tends to mix both languages when speaking. She loves to write romantic comedies with happy endings, witty banter and sizzling chemistry that will make you blush. When she’s not writing, she can be found either reading, or watching rom coms with her two adorable dogs cuddled up beside her.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 367 reviews
November 25, 2024
This book had me grinning like an idiot at 3 AM because I couldn't put it down! Our FMC stumbles into this cozy bar after being stood up, and instead of a regular pity drink, she gets Mark - the grumpiest (but devastatingly handsome) bartender who serves up way more than just cocktails.
This is the perfect winter romance to curl up with when you need a cozy read that'll make you grab your hot cocoa and cry tears of joy. The author handles the age gap beautifully, and the slow burn will keep you turning pages. I absolutely loved watching our grumpy hero fall head over heels first, all while trying to pretend he's not completely smitten. Trust me - this needs to be on your holiday reading list!
This is the perfect winter romance to curl up with when you need a cozy read that'll make you grab your hot cocoa and cry tears of joy. The author handles the age gap beautifully, and the slow burn will keep you turning pages. I absolutely loved watching our grumpy hero fall head over heels first, all while trying to pretend he's not completely smitten. Trust me - this needs to be on your holiday reading list!
November 18, 2024
— ARC Review : 3 stars ✰
This was a cute and enjoyable read! The chemistry between Mark and Holly was spot-on, and Mark is the ultimate greenflag (book) boyfriend. However, Holly seemed to be giving off the pick-me vibes and the way she dumped Ryan was kinda ugly.. (I genuinely felt bad for him) so those are my turn-offs for this book.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This was a cute and enjoyable read! The chemistry between Mark and Holly was spot-on, and Mark is the ultimate greenflag (book) boyfriend. However, Holly seemed to be giving off the pick-me vibes and the way she dumped Ryan was kinda ugly.. (I genuinely felt bad for him) so those are my turn-offs for this book.
────୨ৎ────
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for the ARC in exchange for my honest review!
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December 20, 2024dnf @9%
It literally takes even the tiniest of things for me to be turned off lol. I just don’t think I’m interested in reading this book anymore😪 The hero being in love before when the heroine hasn’t ever been in a relationship is a pet peeve of mine. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’d rather read about a manwhore who’s never been in love before. When I read a romance between two people, I genuinely DO NOT want to know about the hero’s past. Good for him if he’s been in love but does that have to be included in the story? Again, this is a me thing - not that the book was bad - but I’m not gonna force myself to continue reading something that I’m not enjoying😀
No OW drama/cheating (just the H’s ex who he loved but cheated on him. I will say this tho…the hero did mention that what he felt for the heroine was much greater than what he felt for his ex even though he cared about her). Slight OM drama (I think? h dates OM for a bit but breaks up with him when she realises she has feelings for the H) and if I’m not wrong, H has been celibate for a couple of years ig. Nothing wrong with this book but just wasn’t my jam…I think I’ve been reading too many Christmas themed books lmao😅
It literally takes even the tiniest of things for me to be turned off lol. I just don’t think I’m interested in reading this book anymore😪 The hero being in love before when the heroine hasn’t ever been in a relationship is a pet peeve of mine. I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’d rather read about a manwhore who’s never been in love before. When I read a romance between two people, I genuinely DO NOT want to know about the hero’s past. Good for him if he’s been in love but does that have to be included in the story? Again, this is a me thing - not that the book was bad - but I’m not gonna force myself to continue reading something that I’m not enjoying😀
No OW drama/cheating (just the H’s ex who he loved but cheated on him. I will say this tho…the hero did mention that what he felt for the heroine was much greater than what he felt for his ex even though he cared about her). Slight OM drama (I think? h dates OM for a bit but breaks up with him when she realises she has feelings for the H) and if I’m not wrong, H has been celibate for a couple of years ig. Nothing wrong with this book but just wasn’t my jam…I think I’ve been reading too many Christmas themed books lmao😅
November 19, 2024
4.75/5
- grumpy x sunshine
- age gap
- slow burn
- christmas vibes
- found family
- he falls first
- there's a dog in it
omg this was so freaking cute. h gets set up on a blind date by her friend but ends up roping H, the bar owner into being her dating coach after getting drunk when her date doesn't show up. he's a true grinch who doesn't like the holidays and she's the exact opposite of him in every way. and yet he's the one that falls first and hard.
their chemistry, their banter, their friendship and the way it evolved slowly was just so good. the H in this book has my heart and i'm a puddle of goo after his charms. this was the perfect christmas read for me, i throughly enjoyed it.
✦ “Of course. You balance me out. I see everything as sunshine, you see everything as a cloud of grey and rain. Together, we’re a rainbow.” ✦
(would've been a full 5 but h does go on a date with om. after all, H is her dating coach. om and h kiss once and even set up a second date. she calls this dating and she does end it w him on the second one before H/h get together but i would've preferred there was no one for her but the H just as it was all her for him)
- grumpy x sunshine
- age gap
- slow burn
- christmas vibes
- found family
- he falls first
- there's a dog in it
omg this was so freaking cute. h gets set up on a blind date by her friend but ends up roping H, the bar owner into being her dating coach after getting drunk when her date doesn't show up. he's a true grinch who doesn't like the holidays and she's the exact opposite of him in every way. and yet he's the one that falls first and hard.
their chemistry, their banter, their friendship and the way it evolved slowly was just so good. the H in this book has my heart and i'm a puddle of goo after his charms. this was the perfect christmas read for me, i throughly enjoyed it.
✦ “Of course. You balance me out. I see everything as sunshine, you see everything as a cloud of grey and rain. Together, we’re a rainbow.” ✦
(would've been a full 5 but h does go on a date with om. after all, H is her dating coach. om and h kiss once and even set up a second date. she calls this dating and she does end it w him on the second one before H/h get together but i would've preferred there was no one for her but the H just as it was all her for him)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 29, 2024
3.5 Stars
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and the banter.
The Not-So-Good: The side characters could've been improved on since I didn't feel any connection with the mcs and them.
The Bad: The sexual chemistry (see below)
Overall: This was cute. It was probably the best Christmas theme book I've read all year, but it still is not going on my favorites shelf. I struggled with the mushy fluff once they get together, because if you follow me -- you know I always struggle with that. I also felt like "whoa there" when they are finally intimate because it went from nothing to instant dirty talk and, honestly, it felt kind of awkward and not sexy at all for me. I was confused by the h's instant sexual confidence because I was kind of thinking she might've been a virgin with all of her "I've never had a boyfriend" talk and she's was definitely not the type to have a ONS 🤔 Other than those things, I liked the banter and the buildup to more with these two and the epilogue, while short, was sweet.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Holly and Mark's story. Holly finds herself stood up yet again for a blind date in Mark's bar. She decides to get wasted because that sounds better than analyzing her non existent love life, and Mark is there to help her since he is the bartender. She ends up getting him to reluctantly agree to be her dating coach even though the grumpy, grinch stranger hasn't had his own relationship in ~5 years and that had ended badly. The are some cute scenes, some Christmas cheer, some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Holly and Mark's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, instant connection and friendship with attraction.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Mark. I liked him. I liked how he would do anything for the h, but I did want him to communicate a little better.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Holly. I liked her. She was quirky and sweet. I liked how she was herself comfortably with the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It was a slow burn and then it felt like it was 0-60 in no time!
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
Opinion Breakdown
The Good: The premise, the grumpy/sunshine dynamic, and the banter.
The Not-So-Good: The side characters could've been improved on since I didn't feel any connection with the mcs and them.
The Bad: The sexual chemistry (see below)
Overall: This was cute. It was probably the best Christmas theme book I've read all year, but it still is not going on my favorites shelf. I struggled with the mushy fluff once they get together, because if you follow me -- you know I always struggle with that. I also felt like "whoa there" when they are finally intimate because it went from nothing to instant dirty talk and, honestly, it felt kind of awkward and not sexy at all for me. I was confused by the h's instant sexual confidence because I was kind of thinking she might've been a virgin with all of her "I've never had a boyfriend" talk and she's was definitely not the type to have a ONS 🤔 Other than those things, I liked the banter and the buildup to more with these two and the epilogue, while short, was sweet.
Brief Summary of the Storyline: This is Holly and Mark's story. Holly finds herself stood up yet again for a blind date in Mark's bar. She decides to get wasted because that sounds better than analyzing her non existent love life, and Mark is there to help her since he is the bartender. She ends up getting him to reluctantly agree to be her dating coach even though the grumpy, grinch stranger hasn't had his own relationship in ~5 years and that had ended badly. The are some cute scenes, some Christmas cheer, some sexy times...and they get a HEA ending.
Point Of View (POV): This alternated between Holly and Mark's POV.
Overall Pace of Story: Good. I never skimmed and I thought it flowed well.
Instalove: No, instant connection and friendship with attraction.
H (Hero) rating: 3.5 stars. Mark. I liked him. I liked how he would do anything for the h, but I did want him to communicate a little better.
h (heroine) rating: 4 stars. Holly. I liked her. She was quirky and sweet. I liked how she was herself comfortably with the H.
Sadness level: Low, no tissues needed
Push/Pull: Yes
Heat level: Alright. They have some tension, chemistry, and scenes -- but not so much it takes away from the story. It was a slow burn and then it felt like it was 0-60 in no time!
Descriptive sex: Yes
OW (Other Woman)/OM (Other Man) drama: Yes, but mild
Sex scene with OW or OM: No
Cheating: No
Separation: No
Possible Triggers: Yes
Closure: This ends with a cute epilogue and what I would call a HEA ending
Safety: This one should be Safe for most safety gang readers
December 20, 2024
The H was way too passive. Friends to lovers books are boring and I just wasn’t expecting that trope here. It took him way too long to do anything about this feelings for the h. The whole time she was dating the OM in the middle there; was so boring I nearly DNFed like three times.
Overall: 1.5
Overall: 1.5
December 21, 2024
This landed in my lap at a perfect timing. I was searching for a cute Christmas romance and I got it. So easy to read and indulge. Definitely a one day read under a comfy blanket 🫶🏻
⭐️ bartender vs social worker
⭐️ grumpy vs sunshine
⭐️ age gap (10 years)
⭐️ no 3rd act break-up!!!
Basically, Holly has a hard time getting a date and after being stood up in a bar, she gets drunk and asks Mark, the grumpy bartender, to be her dating coach. Of course, the big man has a sad background, a dog and an old woman to take care of, but he softens for her and that’s all that matters.
I even liked their banter:
"Do you even know how to text, old man?" I tease.
"Didn't anyone tell you to respect your elders?"
"Ha." I laugh. "You just called yourself old."
"Bye, Bambi."
"Bye, Mark."
‘My mind drifts to her immediately, and I guess I can kind of see why she'd think that. I'm ten years older than her. She wasn't even alive when my favorite movie was in the theatres.’
I am a fool for these declarations of love. My heart is going to melt one day reading such things.
‘She's everything I never knew I needed. Everything I thought I would hate but can't get enough of. She's light and laughter, smiles and joy. And what the hell am I? A grumpy fucking bastard with nothing to offer her.’
If you need a warm Christmas read, this could be right up your alley - can also be read while everyone around you is in typical Christmas spirit/panic and don’t leave you the f*ck alone to read your romance book. Tested.
⭐️ bartender vs social worker
⭐️ grumpy vs sunshine
⭐️ age gap (10 years)
⭐️ no 3rd act break-up!!!
Basically, Holly has a hard time getting a date and after being stood up in a bar, she gets drunk and asks Mark, the grumpy bartender, to be her dating coach. Of course, the big man has a sad background, a dog and an old woman to take care of, but he softens for her and that’s all that matters.
I even liked their banter:
"Do you even know how to text, old man?" I tease.
"Didn't anyone tell you to respect your elders?"
"Ha." I laugh. "You just called yourself old."
"Bye, Bambi."
"Bye, Mark."
‘My mind drifts to her immediately, and I guess I can kind of see why she'd think that. I'm ten years older than her. She wasn't even alive when my favorite movie was in the theatres.’
I am a fool for these declarations of love. My heart is going to melt one day reading such things.
‘She's everything I never knew I needed. Everything I thought I would hate but can't get enough of. She's light and laughter, smiles and joy. And what the hell am I? A grumpy fucking bastard with nothing to offer her.’
If you need a warm Christmas read, this could be right up your alley - can also be read while everyone around you is in typical Christmas spirit/panic and don’t leave you the f*ck alone to read your romance book. Tested.
November 2, 2024
Holly's jolly Christmas by Stephanie Alves *ੈ🎄✩‧₊
"I told you I'd get you a Christmas boyfriend, didn't I? Turns out it was me all along. We just didn't know it"
My first Christmas book of the year and it didn't disappoint at all! Holly's Jolly Christmas is such a cute short holiday romance. It starts with Holly dealing with a string of bad dates, leading her to meet Mark, the sexy bartender. Their relationship develops through fun holiday activities, giving the PERFECT cozy holiday vibes. It’s full of banter, love, hurt, a cute doggy and a grumpy sexy man 🤭
Thank you so so much Stephanie for the arc! I had such a good and fun time reading your work. Can't wait to read more books by you 🫶🏻 and ps, maybe I also need a book about Olivia and Henry because I loved those two 🤭
Star rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
"I told you I'd get you a Christmas boyfriend, didn't I? Turns out it was me all along. We just didn't know it"
My first Christmas book of the year and it didn't disappoint at all! Holly's Jolly Christmas is such a cute short holiday romance. It starts with Holly dealing with a string of bad dates, leading her to meet Mark, the sexy bartender. Their relationship develops through fun holiday activities, giving the PERFECT cozy holiday vibes. It’s full of banter, love, hurt, a cute doggy and a grumpy sexy man 🤭
Thank you so so much Stephanie for the arc! I had such a good and fun time reading your work. Can't wait to read more books by you 🫶🏻 and ps, maybe I also need a book about Olivia and Henry because I loved those two 🤭
Star rate ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
December 7, 2024
Just your usual hallmark Christmas movie?? maybe but damn it was so cute 😭 I never wanted it to end
The most wholesome romance book of the year award goes to this!! This book put me in my cozy holiday romance era 🎀
Istg reading it all I could think was i need my own fucking Mark because otherwise my life feels like am empty dead end pit. He's soo whipped man so perfect. He's a grump converted anything for you man and I really can't with this standard he just set😭😭
Holly is so cute bro like she's is the sunshine anyone would fall in love with her so it's pretty obvious that our Mark did too but I want him 😭
If you doubt in true love, read this
The endgame will prove to you that your lover is right around the corner or under the mistletoe 😍😍
The most wholesome romance book of the year award goes to this!! This book put me in my cozy holiday romance era 🎀
Istg reading it all I could think was i need my own fucking Mark because otherwise my life feels like am empty dead end pit. He's soo whipped man so perfect. He's a grump converted anything for you man and I really can't with this standard he just set😭😭
Holly is so cute bro like she's is the sunshine anyone would fall in love with her so it's pretty obvious that our Mark did too but I want him 😭
If you doubt in true love, read this
The endgame will prove to you that your lover is right around the corner or under the mistletoe 😍😍
December 29, 2024
Did I just stay up the whole night and finish this book in one sitting? Yes, yes I did. Did I also highlight at least 80% of it? Also yes. I hadn't realised just how much I'd missed romance books. This is definitely my genre. Grumpy x sunshine plus age gap plus holiday romance?! Sign! Me! Up! I loved every singe thing! The setting, the characters, the story, everything! It was overall so heartwarming, and the Christmas vibes just renewed my Christmas mood, it's a shame Christmas has already passed! It's a very light, funny and quick read, you should definitely check it out asap!!!
November 22, 2024
4.5⭐
In the beginning, I doubted I would enjoy this book, but it sure did surprise me.
Mark was a great grumpy to Holly's sunshine. It was a short story so the "dating coach" didn't last long and the reader doesn't have to suffer through a ton of dates for Holly while Mark is falling for her.
I liked the progression of their relationship and enjoyed the characters.
The only thing I didn't like was that the 24 year old FMC was worried she would never find someone she loved due to her age and never being in a serious relationship. Girl, no.
In the beginning, I doubted I would enjoy this book, but it sure did surprise me.
Mark was a great grumpy to Holly's sunshine. It was a short story so the "dating coach" didn't last long and the reader doesn't have to suffer through a ton of dates for Holly while Mark is falling for her.
I liked the progression of their relationship and enjoyed the characters.
The only thing I didn't like was that the 24 year old FMC was worried she would never find someone she loved due to her age and never being in a serious relationship. Girl, no.
November 2, 2024
I loved the opportunity to ARC read this book!
This was a fantastic book! The chemistry was off the charts. It is spicy toward the end but most of it is just falling in love in an adorable way! First time reading her book and will definitely read the other ones!!
Grumpy and sunshine love interests. Friends to lovers. Genuine happiness. 10 year age gap.
Just a perfect little book!
This was a fantastic book! The chemistry was off the charts. It is spicy toward the end but most of it is just falling in love in an adorable way! First time reading her book and will definitely read the other ones!!
Grumpy and sunshine love interests. Friends to lovers. Genuine happiness. 10 year age gap.
Just a perfect little book!
November 12, 2024
ARC Review ❄️🤍
First of, thank you so much to Stephanie Alves for choosing me to be part of her ARC Team 🤍
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed the book! It was an easy, cozy Christmas read where you can snuggle up and drink a cup of hot chocolate.
I really love the kind of Sunshine Holly is. She brings a different energy, and her beautiful personality actually is contagious to me as a reader. I love how optimistic she is and she gave Christmas a whole new perspective and meaning.
For Mark, I just love how he can’t say no to Holly. I love how he loves everyone dear to him unconditionally and would do just anything to see them happy. Actually made to my Top 10 book boyfriends even though he is such a grumpy Grinch.
I love both of them as a couple even though how they ended up was a slow burn but didn’t felt like it. I also love love love a good time skip for an Epilogue and in all honesty made me almost tear up for two reasons and one of them because I was happy how things ended for Holly and Mark after everything they’ve been through.
Bambi and Grinch will surely have my holiday heart 🤍🤍🤍 will definitely grab a physical copy of the book.
First of, thank you so much to Stephanie Alves for choosing me to be part of her ARC Team 🤍
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
I really enjoyed the book! It was an easy, cozy Christmas read where you can snuggle up and drink a cup of hot chocolate.
I really love the kind of Sunshine Holly is. She brings a different energy, and her beautiful personality actually is contagious to me as a reader. I love how optimistic she is and she gave Christmas a whole new perspective and meaning.
For Mark, I just love how he can’t say no to Holly. I love how he loves everyone dear to him unconditionally and would do just anything to see them happy. Actually made to my Top 10 book boyfriends even though he is such a grumpy Grinch.
I love both of them as a couple even though how they ended up was a slow burn but didn’t felt like it. I also love love love a good time skip for an Epilogue and in all honesty made me almost tear up for two reasons and one of them because I was happy how things ended for Holly and Mark after everything they’ve been through.
Bambi and Grinch will surely have my holiday heart 🤍🤍🤍 will definitely grab a physical copy of the book.
November 12, 2024
I just love the grumpy x sunshine trope! I was hooked after the first few pages, the way Mark would do anything for her!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
November 30, 2024
This book had me cringing from start to finish.
I couldn’t stand Holly, she was so insecure and everyone had to keep reassuring her that she is pretty or good enough.
There wasn’t any connection between the main characters, it just wasn’t there, so when they end up together at the end of the book I didn’t even feel anything for them. The spice was also really cringy to read, the term “juices” like…ugh
I couldn’t stand Holly, she was so insecure and everyone had to keep reassuring her that she is pretty or good enough.
There wasn’t any connection between the main characters, it just wasn’t there, so when they end up together at the end of the book I didn’t even feel anything for them. The spice was also really cringy to read, the term “juices” like…ugh
December 6, 2024
“you are?”
“i am?”
“it is?”
repeat for 200 pages
“i am?”
“it is?”
repeat for 200 pages
December 10, 2024
This was such a sweet and funny Christmas novella! I really enjoyed how this book flowed so easily considering it takes place in the span of a few weeks leading up to Christmas. There was a good balance between the insta love and slow burn vibes.
Holly loves Christmas but has never been in a serious relationship, Mark hates Christmas and had a serious relationship end badly five years prior but isn’t looking for a partner. The two are the definition of opposites attract and are so different in their likes and dislikes that it somehow worked perfectly when they developed feelings for each other, it was like they were two missing puzzle pieces. We get a good understanding of both characters backstories and how they fit together as their feelings come to the surface.
Majority of the interactions were through verbal communication so we see the characters interacting a lot with each other. The banter and chemistry between Holly and Mark was just perfect, although Mark is a grump he isn’t be type to take his frustrations out on Holly which I loved. Part of Holly’s charm and personality is that she can be a bit full on sometimes, despite all that Mark spends time with her as her ‘dating coach’ a role he reluctantly takes on to help Holly find love. One thing I would highly praise Stephanie for is how Mark genuinely fell for Holly’s personality rather than having lustful thoughts about her.
As with all romances we know that forced proximity can lead to feelings that the MCs weren’t expecting to have for one another and well you’ll need to read to find out the rest 👀
Holly loves Christmas but has never been in a serious relationship, Mark hates Christmas and had a serious relationship end badly five years prior but isn’t looking for a partner. The two are the definition of opposites attract and are so different in their likes and dislikes that it somehow worked perfectly when they developed feelings for each other, it was like they were two missing puzzle pieces. We get a good understanding of both characters backstories and how they fit together as their feelings come to the surface.
Majority of the interactions were through verbal communication so we see the characters interacting a lot with each other. The banter and chemistry between Holly and Mark was just perfect, although Mark is a grump he isn’t be type to take his frustrations out on Holly which I loved. Part of Holly’s charm and personality is that she can be a bit full on sometimes, despite all that Mark spends time with her as her ‘dating coach’ a role he reluctantly takes on to help Holly find love. One thing I would highly praise Stephanie for is how Mark genuinely fell for Holly’s personality rather than having lustful thoughts about her.
As with all romances we know that forced proximity can lead to feelings that the MCs weren’t expecting to have for one another and well you’ll need to read to find out the rest 👀
did-not-finish
December 20, 2025DNF: 25%
I couldn’t do this. The writing felt cringy, poorly executed, and it was only dialogue. I don’t mind characters yapping or just hanging out, but this was way too much. Please, give me some descriptions. Even vague ones would’ve helped. It’s the end of the year and I can’t be bothered to force myself through a book like this.
I couldn’t do this. The writing felt cringy, poorly executed, and it was only dialogue. I don’t mind characters yapping or just hanging out, but this was way too much. Please, give me some descriptions. Even vague ones would’ve helped. It’s the end of the year and I can’t be bothered to force myself through a book like this.
December 13, 2024
100% a comfort book!!
October 9, 2025
it was very cuteee😭💗
December 22, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
This hit the spot because I wanted a fun Christmas read!
Holly convinces a grumpy bartender to be her dating coach after being stood up. She’s the opposite of him, loud and messy and he’s grumpy and a Christmas hater.
It’s the usual tropes but I still enjoyed it and will always love a grumpy man simping for the heroine!
safety (some spoilers): some om drama because he’s helping her find a man to date, she kisses the om off page but doesn’t feel much, no ow drama - the hero was cheated on 5 years ago and celibate since, doesn’t seem to be pining for her
This hit the spot because I wanted a fun Christmas read!
Holly convinces a grumpy bartender to be her dating coach after being stood up. She’s the opposite of him, loud and messy and he’s grumpy and a Christmas hater.
It’s the usual tropes but I still enjoyed it and will always love a grumpy man simping for the heroine!
safety (some spoilers): some om drama because he’s helping her find a man to date, she kisses the om off page but doesn’t feel much, no ow drama - the hero was cheated on 5 years ago and celibate since, doesn’t seem to be pining for her
November 12, 2024
Review: *Holly’s Jolly Christmas* by Stephanie Alves
⭐️ 5/5 stars
First of all, I want to thank Stephanie Alves so much for giving me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book. It’s an honor to share my impressions of *Holly’s Jolly Christmas* ahead of its official release on November 15th. 🎄✨
This book is the perfect read to get into the Christmas spirit! 🌟 Holly is a true ray of sunshine—sweet, cheerful, and completely in love with Christmas. After yet another heartbreak, she meets Mark, the grumpy bar owner who despises everything about Christmas. Who would’ve thought he’d be the one to melt her heart?
The story is light but has depth, making me smile and sigh. The chemistry between Mark and Holly is incredible, with dialogues full of humor and tenderness. Their relationship grows slowly but intensely. Holly, the optimist, and Mark, the cynic, make the perfect pair of opposites. A “grumpy x sunshine” with a Christmas twist!
I loved the sweet moments and the sizzling chemistry towards the end (yes, this book has its spicy touch!). And who wouldn’t enjoy a romance filled with laughter, adorable moments, and, of course, that festive Christmas vibe? 🎁
If you’re looking for a Christmas romance that’s both sweet and moving, with that magical touch only Christmas can bring, *Holly’s Jolly Christmas* is the perfect book! 🎅🏼
Don’t miss out—the release is on November 15th! Grab your copy and get swept up in this heartwarming story.
#hollyjollychristmas #stephaniealves #bookstagram #romance #christmasvibes #grumpyxsunshine #holidayreads #ARC #5stars
⭐️ 5/5 stars
First of all, I want to thank Stephanie Alves so much for giving me the opportunity to be an ARC reader for this book. It’s an honor to share my impressions of *Holly’s Jolly Christmas* ahead of its official release on November 15th. 🎄✨
This book is the perfect read to get into the Christmas spirit! 🌟 Holly is a true ray of sunshine—sweet, cheerful, and completely in love with Christmas. After yet another heartbreak, she meets Mark, the grumpy bar owner who despises everything about Christmas. Who would’ve thought he’d be the one to melt her heart?
The story is light but has depth, making me smile and sigh. The chemistry between Mark and Holly is incredible, with dialogues full of humor and tenderness. Their relationship grows slowly but intensely. Holly, the optimist, and Mark, the cynic, make the perfect pair of opposites. A “grumpy x sunshine” with a Christmas twist!
I loved the sweet moments and the sizzling chemistry towards the end (yes, this book has its spicy touch!). And who wouldn’t enjoy a romance filled with laughter, adorable moments, and, of course, that festive Christmas vibe? 🎁
If you’re looking for a Christmas romance that’s both sweet and moving, with that magical touch only Christmas can bring, *Holly’s Jolly Christmas* is the perfect book! 🎅🏼
Don’t miss out—the release is on November 15th! Grab your copy and get swept up in this heartwarming story.
#hollyjollychristmas #stephaniealves #bookstagram #romance #christmasvibes #grumpyxsunshine #holidayreads #ARC #5stars
November 13, 2024
ARC Review✨
I absolutely loveddd this book!! Holly and Mark’s dynamic throughout the entire book is sooo cute & wholesome. It’s the perfect book to read during the christmas season!!🩵
I’m such a sucker for a slow burn romance & this was written sooo perfectly!! I was kicking my feet & giggling the entire time🤭This book had me hooked from beginning to end🫶🏻
I’m soooo beyond grateful to have been given the opportunity to read Holly’s Jolly Christmas before it’s release🤍🤍
I absolutely loveddd this book!! Holly and Mark’s dynamic throughout the entire book is sooo cute & wholesome. It’s the perfect book to read during the christmas season!!🩵
I’m such a sucker for a slow burn romance & this was written sooo perfectly!! I was kicking my feet & giggling the entire time🤭This book had me hooked from beginning to end🫶🏻
I’m soooo beyond grateful to have been given the opportunity to read Holly’s Jolly Christmas before it’s release🤍🤍
November 7, 2024
I am so grateful to have received an ARC of this book.
What an adorable Christmas romance!! 🎄❄️
Holly was a character that just made me happy, like I could feel her joy and energy through the pages. Going into it I forgot it was an age gap romance and can I just say that’s actually one of the things I loved most about it. I loved how Mark very slowly caved into her goofiness and Holly broke his hard exterior down. The way they both knew they weren’t meant to catch feelings but they did, just made me giddy reading it.
Really recommend for a fun little Christmas book, I loved it
💙🩵
What an adorable Christmas romance!! 🎄❄️
Holly was a character that just made me happy, like I could feel her joy and energy through the pages. Going into it I forgot it was an age gap romance and can I just say that’s actually one of the things I loved most about it. I loved how Mark very slowly caved into her goofiness and Holly broke his hard exterior down. The way they both knew they weren’t meant to catch feelings but they did, just made me giddy reading it.
Really recommend for a fun little Christmas book, I loved it
💙🩵
December 3, 2024
I know I wanted dumb Christmas rom coms for the end of the year but this was awful
December 29, 2024
3,5 ⭐️
“And if he does stand you up, you come and tell me, and I’ll beat some sense into him.” My jaw drops, and I blink in surprise. “I thought he was your friend.” “Not if he ends up hurting you.” 👀🤭
He groans in frustration. “You kill me, Bambi.” 🦌😮💨
“Sweetheart, you’re gorgeous,” I tell her,
And for the first time in fucking forever, I feel a hint of a smile caress my lips. 🥰🥹
She lifts her head, a small smirk tugging at her lips as her big eyes meet mine. “It’s called cuddling, Mark. Get used to it.” “I hate it,” I mumble, but when she starts to lift her head, I wrap my arm around her shoulder, halting her. “I didn’t tell you to move.” ✨🌌
Of course he does. Just fucking look at her. Fuck, she looked so beautiful. 🤭
He chuckles again, softly this time and the sound vibrates through me, warm and comforting and I’ve quickly become addicted to the way he smiles. “You make it easy,” he says, covering his hand over mine. 😚💫
Murray’s practically vibrating with excitement, his tail wagging as she kisses the top of his head. Same, buddy. I feel the same exact way whenever I see her. 🥹🥲😮💨
AWWWWW
He turns his head to look at me and I catch a glimpse of something soft in his eyes as they meet mine. “I am appreciating the beauty.” 🫠
Truth is, I love how happy she seems about everything. This girl came into my bar and twisted my whole world around. She brought joy into my life again, and I know I don’t deserve any of it. She’s everything I never knew I needed. Everything I thought I would hate but can’t get enough of. She’s light and laughter, smiles and joy. 🤍
She’s the purest soul I’ve ever met. How the hell did I get so lucky to have her in my life?😭🤌🏻
Can I call you?
Mark: Always. 🥹😫
“Sleep well, sweetheart,” I whisper, leaning over to kiss her forehead. Her skin is warm under my lips, and I break out into a smile as she mumbles something. I turn around, closing my eyes, knowing that there’s no place I’d rather be than right here with her in this moment. ✨✨✨
I glance down at her in fucking awe of how gorgeous this woman is. 😭😭
“You’re the only one I want.” God. Those words. They cave my chest in and make my heart pump to life. “Out of all the men in New York?” She shakes her head, a smirk tugging at her lips. “Out of all the men in the world,” she clarifies, her big eyes sparkling. “I’d choose you over anyone.”
“I love your voice, Bambi. Never stop talking.” 🙇🏻♀️
“I decided the night you told me you wanted kids that if I ever got the chance to be the guy for you, I’d give you anything you wanted. Marriage, kids, Christmas, dressing up as Santa—”🤰🫦❤️🩹
“I always knew you were a big softie.” He laughs, shaking his head. “Only for you, Bambi.” 🤭
She rolls her eyes. “You know what I mean. Since when do you have candles?” I shrug. “Since I found one that smells like you.” Her eyes soften. “You bought a candle that smells like me?” she asks, her lips widening into a smile. I nod, sitting on the couch as I pull her up to sit beside me. “Wanted my house to smell like you,” I admit. “It feels like home whenever you’re here.” 🥹🥹🥰“Holly, you are my home,” I tell her.
“It’s my honor to love you, Holly. You came into my life and made every aspect of it ten times better. I would have never had any of this if it wasn’t for you. You don’t need to thank me. I will love you for the rest of our days and beyond," 😭🥲🤰🙇🏻♀️🫠😮💨 A HONOR TO LOVE YOU-😫🥲
“And if he does stand you up, you come and tell me, and I’ll beat some sense into him.” My jaw drops, and I blink in surprise. “I thought he was your friend.” “Not if he ends up hurting you.” 👀🤭
He groans in frustration. “You kill me, Bambi.” 🦌😮💨
“Sweetheart, you’re gorgeous,” I tell her,
And for the first time in fucking forever, I feel a hint of a smile caress my lips. 🥰🥹
She lifts her head, a small smirk tugging at her lips as her big eyes meet mine. “It’s called cuddling, Mark. Get used to it.” “I hate it,” I mumble, but when she starts to lift her head, I wrap my arm around her shoulder, halting her. “I didn’t tell you to move.” ✨🌌
Of course he does. Just fucking look at her. Fuck, she looked so beautiful. 🤭
He chuckles again, softly this time and the sound vibrates through me, warm and comforting and I’ve quickly become addicted to the way he smiles. “You make it easy,” he says, covering his hand over mine. 😚💫
Murray’s practically vibrating with excitement, his tail wagging as she kisses the top of his head. Same, buddy. I feel the same exact way whenever I see her. 🥹🥲😮💨
AWWWWW
He turns his head to look at me and I catch a glimpse of something soft in his eyes as they meet mine. “I am appreciating the beauty.” 🫠
Truth is, I love how happy she seems about everything. This girl came into my bar and twisted my whole world around. She brought joy into my life again, and I know I don’t deserve any of it. She’s everything I never knew I needed. Everything I thought I would hate but can’t get enough of. She’s light and laughter, smiles and joy. 🤍
She’s the purest soul I’ve ever met. How the hell did I get so lucky to have her in my life?😭🤌🏻
Can I call you?
Mark: Always. 🥹😫
“Sleep well, sweetheart,” I whisper, leaning over to kiss her forehead. Her skin is warm under my lips, and I break out into a smile as she mumbles something. I turn around, closing my eyes, knowing that there’s no place I’d rather be than right here with her in this moment. ✨✨✨
I glance down at her in fucking awe of how gorgeous this woman is. 😭😭
“You’re the only one I want.” God. Those words. They cave my chest in and make my heart pump to life. “Out of all the men in New York?” She shakes her head, a smirk tugging at her lips. “Out of all the men in the world,” she clarifies, her big eyes sparkling. “I’d choose you over anyone.”
“I love your voice, Bambi. Never stop talking.” 🙇🏻♀️
“I decided the night you told me you wanted kids that if I ever got the chance to be the guy for you, I’d give you anything you wanted. Marriage, kids, Christmas, dressing up as Santa—”🤰🫦❤️🩹
“I always knew you were a big softie.” He laughs, shaking his head. “Only for you, Bambi.” 🤭
She rolls her eyes. “You know what I mean. Since when do you have candles?” I shrug. “Since I found one that smells like you.” Her eyes soften. “You bought a candle that smells like me?” she asks, her lips widening into a smile. I nod, sitting on the couch as I pull her up to sit beside me. “Wanted my house to smell like you,” I admit. “It feels like home whenever you’re here.” 🥹🥹🥰“Holly, you are my home,” I tell her.
“It’s my honor to love you, Holly. You came into my life and made every aspect of it ten times better. I would have never had any of this if it wasn’t for you. You don’t need to thank me. I will love you for the rest of our days and beyond," 😭🥲🤰🙇🏻♀️🫠😮💨 A HONOR TO LOVE YOU-😫🥲
November 6, 2024
Holly’s Jolly Christmas by Stephanie Alves was such a cute fast paced Holiday read! Giving you all those cozy Christmas vibes and into the holiday spirit.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
❄️Age Gap
🎄Grumpy Sunshine
❄️Slow Burn
🎄Hallmark vibes
❄️ Dual Point of view
🎄 Found Family
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for sending me this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
If your looking a fast paced short Holiday read I’d highly recommend this. When Holy is fed up with terrible dates and gets stood up one night in a bar, little does she know her “dating coach” turns into the love of her life. Find out more about Holly and Marks story releasing on November 15.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️
Tropes:
❄️Age Gap
🎄Grumpy Sunshine
❄️Slow Burn
🎄Hallmark vibes
❄️ Dual Point of view
🎄 Found Family
Thank you to Stephanie Alves for sending me this ARC copy in exchange for an honest review.
If your looking a fast paced short Holiday read I’d highly recommend this. When Holy is fed up with terrible dates and gets stood up one night in a bar, little does she know her “dating coach” turns into the love of her life. Find out more about Holly and Marks story releasing on November 15.
December 25, 2024
Such a cute book. This book was giving me butterflies. He’s such a grump but can’t help it to say yes when she asks for help. She such a sweet and caring person. Screw all those other guys who wouldn’t give her a chance. She un-grinched him. The ending is adorable with Mia still with them, their adopted daughter, Holly pregnant. Such a nice ending just wish I could’ve gotten a little more.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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