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Daddy Issues #1
Chilled and Thrilled: A Forbidden, Best Friend's Dad, Holiday Novella
While I’m not clear on where one gets an official copy of the girl code, it seems like “thou shall not covet thy bestie’s hot dad” would be pretty high on that list.
Even if my hormone-ridden peanut brain would love to read into every interaction we’ve ever had, and imagine he’s been pining away for me too, my judgment is clearly not to be trusted here. It’s time to move on.
Unfortunately, coveting is a hard condition to kick when you find yourself spending Christmas alone with him at his fancy house.
It’s even harder when you throw in the storm of the century, a mountain of snow where the driveway should be, and learning your best friend’s father isn’t quite as disinterested as you thought he was.
Now, the one thing I know for sure, is this is a Christmas I’ll never forget.
Even if my hormone-ridden peanut brain would love to read into every interaction we’ve ever had, and imagine he’s been pining away for me too, my judgment is clearly not to be trusted here. It’s time to move on.
Unfortunately, coveting is a hard condition to kick when you find yourself spending Christmas alone with him at his fancy house.
It’s even harder when you throw in the storm of the century, a mountain of snow where the driveway should be, and learning your best friend’s father isn’t quite as disinterested as you thought he was.
Now, the one thing I know for sure, is this is a Christmas I’ll never forget.
178 pages, Paperback
Published November 19, 2024
564 people are currently reading
3745 people want to read
About the author
Cleo White
17 books1,137 followersCleo White's affinity for all things dramatic and hopelessly romantic began the day she was born, which happened to be in the middle of a record-breaking snowstorm on Valentine’s Day. Her love of literature came soon after, and she spent the better part of her childhood with both a book and a notebook full of unfinished stories in hand. Later in life, she found a love of writing spicy books with complicated characters and dysfunctional family drama. Cleo currently lives in Vermont with her husband and two daughters. When not writing, she can be found hiking, gardening, painting, and consuming excessive quantities of caffeine.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,107 reviews
May 20, 2025
If you love forbidden, age gap, best friend's dad, boss, he's OBSESSED, snowed in...YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK. I did not expect to become so in love with this story, but it was holiday perfection. They're both into each other, but don't want to cross that line, so they both are determined to move on after a year of pining. AND THEN THEY GET SNOWED IN TOGETHER. Give me a hero obsessed any day and Bram was so head over heels for her. He would give her rides to work, get jealous if his best friend/partner at work talked to her. And the dating app!? No spoilers, but I was kicking my feet at that scene. This is the perfect taboo holiday novella and everyone needs to pick it up!!!
gave-up-on
December 6, 2024DNF. Hero used to share women with his best friend, even his previous wife was shared. The best friend walks in on them having sex and offers to join. They decline but let him watch. Not my idea of a good book. 🙂↔️😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 10, 2024
Tropes: best friend’s dad, age gap, boss/employee, forbidden, mutual pining, snowed in over Christmas, “you can take it” and LOTS of spice.
Rating: 4.75✨
This is a lovely and super spicy holiday novella. I was hooked from the beginning to the very end, so much so that I read it all in one sitting.
To be honest, it’s not very festive, but they are snowed in during Christmas, and I wouldn’t mind at all having some Bram Vogel for myself.😏
If you are looking for a short, hot, and forbidden age gap read for the holidays, then you are in for a treat with this book! I highly recommend it.
Rating: 4.75✨
This is a lovely and super spicy holiday novella. I was hooked from the beginning to the very end, so much so that I read it all in one sitting.
To be honest, it’s not very festive, but they are snowed in during Christmas, and I wouldn’t mind at all having some Bram Vogel for myself.😏
If you are looking for a short, hot, and forbidden age gap read for the holidays, then you are in for a treat with this book! I highly recommend it.
January 6, 2025
ੈ♡˳ rating: three of five stars
ੈ♡˳ thoughts:
this book was cute. it was a short novella, which i've been reading more just because it's easier to get into reading when the books are short and cute. something that bothered me during this book was that they were both into each other, the father was aware that his daughter knew he had feelings for her best friend, and they wouldn't act on their feelings! like bro! please! y'all are grown! if y'all don't hurry up and knock some boots already. but the mmc was old and freaky, just how i like them.
ੈ♡˳ tropes
ꕥ age-gap
ꕥ forced proximity
ꕥ best friend's dad
ꕥ he's her boss
November 23, 2025
I’m probably going to be an outlier. This was just ok for me and I don’t know if some of the taboo wasn’t my jam or if it was the characters or the writing I couldn’t get in step with. The positive reviews clearly did love all of these components. Never let a meh review hold you back.
Written in first person, dual POV. No real ow/om drama, but the h does see the H on a date that goes nowhere and the H’s partner teases the possibility of asking the h out. They’re both secretly enamored with and pining over each other, these other moments don’t feel like genuine threats to the main couple. Neither has been with anyone since the h started working with the H, both celibate. Both are experienced though and I do think some friends will not like that it’s shared that the H previously shared lovers with his business partner. The h experiences some jealousy thinking about his past.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Taboo - age gap, boss x employee, best friend’s dad
☆ Holiday themes
☆ They’re obsessed with each other but feel like it’s impossible
☆ Hiding their feelings
☆ He takes care of her
☆ She brightens his world
☆ They end up together over Christmas
☆ Snowed in
☆ Some kink exploration - spanking, talk of free use, sensation play, breeding kink
☆ Possessive MMC - does not want to share
☆ Moment of sort of exhibitionism - they get caught and still finish
☆ Discussion of religious trauma
☆ Family dynamics
Lots of steam in this novella, but it also covers the emotions of the main characters. The H and h both have quite the inner monologues regarding their feelings for each other and how they can’t act on them to start. Even when they have moments of wondering if the other returns that interest, they mentally circle the boundaries holding them back. The taboo element is set up well because of all this but it did feel kind of exhausting, especially because the go-ahead moment hinges on them matching sexually. It’s not just about sex though, so it felt off for me given their prior fears.
They do adore each other and that was lovely to read about, particularly for the h, who has a sad family background. I could believe when they expressed love for each other since they worked so closely together and had a strong foundation, alongside their sexual compatibility. Their openness with each other was also fantastic, once they decided to communicate, they took it seriously.
Coming clean to the H’s daughters is not dramatic and, again, this works given the situation and the series. If you look at the blurbs for the other books, all of them end up in age gaps and ultimately have taboo relationships. Making this less dramatic as a whole was a good choice by the author for what’s to come I think. I do wish that there had been a chapter of them post-snowed in going on dates or being together IRL. The epilogue is a year later and sweet, but is the two of them on the next Christmas morning. They get engaged and it’s an aww time, but I wanted to see them at work or getting to be together in front of others.
Written in first person, dual POV. No real ow/om drama, but the h does see the H on a date that goes nowhere and the H’s partner teases the possibility of asking the h out. They’re both secretly enamored with and pining over each other, these other moments don’t feel like genuine threats to the main couple. Neither has been with anyone since the h started working with the H, both celibate. Both are experienced though and I do think some friends will not like that it’s shared that the H previously shared lovers with his business partner. The h experiences some jealousy thinking about his past.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Taboo - age gap, boss x employee, best friend’s dad
☆ Holiday themes
☆ They’re obsessed with each other but feel like it’s impossible
☆ Hiding their feelings
☆ He takes care of her
☆ She brightens his world
☆ They end up together over Christmas
☆ Snowed in
☆ Some kink exploration - spanking, talk of free use, sensation play, breeding kink
☆ Possessive MMC - does not want to share
☆ Moment of sort of exhibitionism - they get caught and still finish
☆ Discussion of religious trauma
☆ Family dynamics
Lots of steam in this novella, but it also covers the emotions of the main characters. The H and h both have quite the inner monologues regarding their feelings for each other and how they can’t act on them to start. Even when they have moments of wondering if the other returns that interest, they mentally circle the boundaries holding them back. The taboo element is set up well because of all this but it did feel kind of exhausting, especially because the go-ahead moment hinges on them matching sexually. It’s not just about sex though, so it felt off for me given their prior fears.
They do adore each other and that was lovely to read about, particularly for the h, who has a sad family background. I could believe when they expressed love for each other since they worked so closely together and had a strong foundation, alongside their sexual compatibility. Their openness with each other was also fantastic, once they decided to communicate, they took it seriously.
Coming clean to the H’s daughters is not dramatic and, again, this works given the situation and the series. If you look at the blurbs for the other books, all of them end up in age gaps and ultimately have taboo relationships. Making this less dramatic as a whole was a good choice by the author for what’s to come I think. I do wish that there had been a chapter of them post-snowed in going on dates or being together IRL. The epilogue is a year later and sweet, but is the two of them on the next Christmas morning. They get engaged and it’s an aww time, but I wanted to see them at work or getting to be together in front of others.
December 21, 2025
Це було дуже гаряче🔥😏
Щей з атмосферою Різдва-Нового року, якраз те що потрібно. Ну і тут такий класний чоловік 🤭 і головна героїня дуже смішна, її висловлювання мене дуже смішили.
Щей з атмосферою Різдва-Нового року, якраз те що потрібно. Ну і тут такий класний чоловік 🤭 і головна героїня дуже смішна, її висловлювання мене дуже смішили.
November 26, 2024
a generous 3 stars. call me childish but I could not get past the mmc's name being bram. thank you to luna literary management for the arc.
November 29, 2025
Honestly this story surprised me. The whole “crushing on your best friend’s dad” thing should’ve made me cringe, but weirdly… it didn’t. 😭 It was actually kind of sweet. (And I cannot believe I’m admitting that.)
I’m not big on age gaps (like at all) but this was such a quick, easy read that I ended up getting pulled in without even realizing it. They’ve known each other for years, always orbiting, always holding back. It gave me that slow-burn tension I love, even though the actual pace moves fast.
And then the snowstorm, the empty house, the whole being-stuck-together situation… everything they’d been avoiding suddenly comes crashing forward, and all that tension finally snaps. Not messy, not dramatic, just the moment everything finally gives in. (The shift had been coming for a long time, and wow did it hit.)
It’s cute, warm, and just the right level of scandalous without going overboard. A perfect short winter read. I’ll probably end up grabbing the next two in the series soon. (Curiosity is winning)
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"Sometimes, I have to remind myself to breathe when I look at you.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
❄️ age gap (6 years)
❄️ forced proximity
❄️ best friend’s dad
❄️ breeding kink
❄️ dual POV
I’m not big on age gaps (like at all) but this was such a quick, easy read that I ended up getting pulled in without even realizing it. They’ve known each other for years, always orbiting, always holding back. It gave me that slow-burn tension I love, even though the actual pace moves fast.
And then the snowstorm, the empty house, the whole being-stuck-together situation… everything they’d been avoiding suddenly comes crashing forward, and all that tension finally snaps. Not messy, not dramatic, just the moment everything finally gives in. (The shift had been coming for a long time, and wow did it hit.)
It’s cute, warm, and just the right level of scandalous without going overboard. A perfect short winter read. I’ll probably end up grabbing the next two in the series soon. (Curiosity is winning)
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
"Sometimes, I have to remind myself to breathe when I look at you.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
❄️ age gap (6 years)
❄️ forced proximity
❄️ best friend’s dad
❄️ breeding kink
❄️ dual POV
December 26, 2025
3.75⭐
I didn’t expect to enjoy this novella so much! It was super hot, sweet, cute, and funny. What can I say—I love the age gap trope!🤭
I didn’t expect to enjoy this novella so much! It was super hot, sweet, cute, and funny. What can I say—I love the age gap trope!🤭
November 13, 2024
4.5/5
i’m gonna have a wonderful time with ANY variant of a dad romance, but a taboo best friend’s dad novella? YEAHHHHHHH. this was such a fun read. it had a really good amount of build up and tension despite being a novella, and once THEY GAVE IN????????? AHHHHHHHHH!!!! the spice was SO yummy and I loved that they were finding out more about each other as they continued to explore. and a HEA is what we looooove to see in a novella like this!! thank you cleo!!
bram, dude. you are so. insanely. fine. he lifted off of the pages and into my imagination in best ways ;) sophie had my cackling with her wit and sass, and genuinely was written so well as her own character as well as a friend. there are so many characters I can’t wait to see being further developed (looking at you bram’s daughter) AND HIS BUSINESS PARTNER HOLDEN?!!!??? OH MY GOOOOOOOOOOOD OKAY!!!!!!
this truly was so much fun and I am so grateful to have gotten a chance to read the ARC! thank you Cleo & her amazing team!!
i’m gonna have a wonderful time with ANY variant of a dad romance, but a taboo best friend’s dad novella? YEAHHHHHHH. this was such a fun read. it had a really good amount of build up and tension despite being a novella, and once THEY GAVE IN????????? AHHHHHHHHH!!!! the spice was SO yummy and I loved that they were finding out more about each other as they continued to explore. and a HEA is what we looooove to see in a novella like this!! thank you cleo!!
bram, dude. you are so. insanely. fine. he lifted off of the pages and into my imagination in best ways ;) sophie had my cackling with her wit and sass, and genuinely was written so well as her own character as well as a friend. there are so many characters I can’t wait to see being further developed (looking at you bram’s daughter) AND HIS BUSINESS PARTNER HOLDEN?!!!??? OH MY GOOOOOOOOOOOD OKAY!!!!!!
this truly was so much fun and I am so grateful to have gotten a chance to read the ARC! thank you Cleo & her amazing team!!
November 20, 2024
I didn’t like the H. Both the h&H have been single and celibate for over a year since they started working together and developed feelings for each other that the other was unaware of. But in his past he used to share women with his business partner/best friend, even the mother of his daughters he was in an open relationship with and watched her with his best friend. He said he would never share the h but there’s a scene at the end where he walks in on them fucking in H’s office and he offers to join which the H fiercely turns down but they basically let him watch them finish.
So while this is technically a safe read I didn’t like his past or the stuff with his friend it was icky.
I’m a massive hypocrite cus sometimes I can stomach this stuff but today was not one of those times 🤢
Dual pov
Age gap h24 H44
Best friends dad/boss
HFN
Epilogue 1 year later he proposes
So while this is technically a safe read I didn’t like his past or the stuff with his friend it was icky.
I’m a massive hypocrite cus sometimes I can stomach this stuff but today was not one of those times 🤢
Dual pov
Age gap h24 H44
Best friends dad/boss
HFN
Epilogue 1 year later he proposes
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 21, 2025
4.25✨ (rounded to 4 for GR)
3🌶️
❄️holiday-themed read (Christmas)
❄️contemporary romance
❄️interconnected standalone
❄️age gap (~20 years?)
❄️best friend's dad (met when FMC was 18+, didn't start anything until her mid-twenties)
❄️boss x employee
❄️snowed in/forced proximity
❄️mutual pining
❄️HE FALLS HARD
❄️kink exploration
HO-HO-HOT AS HELL!
I got into the Christmas spirit a little early this year with a winter holiday read by Cleo White I've been eyeing up for a looooooooong time. And happy to report that Chilled and Thrilled has made the naughty list - in the nicest way possible.
This truly had all the components of an age-gap romance I like - both MCs being 20s+, having common goals and interests, similar emotional maturity levels, and with just enough of the forbidden emphasis that doesn't overwhelm. And the SPICE on top of it? Man, these two had chemistry. It verges on erotic romance, although it comes out more in the kink exploration between the pair, and heavily relies on the sexual chemistry and blossoming love between the characters.
ATE THIS UPPPPPPP. SOPHIE AND BRAM 5EVA. KEEM 'EM COMING CLEO!!!!!
3🌶️
❄️holiday-themed read (Christmas)
❄️contemporary romance
❄️interconnected standalone
❄️age gap (~20 years?)
❄️best friend's dad (met when FMC was 18+, didn't start anything until her mid-twenties)
❄️boss x employee
❄️snowed in/forced proximity
❄️mutual pining
❄️HE FALLS HARD
❄️kink exploration
HO-HO-HOT AS HELL!
I got into the Christmas spirit a little early this year with a winter holiday read by Cleo White I've been eyeing up for a looooooooong time. And happy to report that Chilled and Thrilled has made the naughty list - in the nicest way possible.
This truly had all the components of an age-gap romance I like - both MCs being 20s+, having common goals and interests, similar emotional maturity levels, and with just enough of the forbidden emphasis that doesn't overwhelm. And the SPICE on top of it? Man, these two had chemistry. It verges on erotic romance, although it comes out more in the kink exploration between the pair, and heavily relies on the sexual chemistry and blossoming love between the characters.
ATE THIS UPPPPPPP. SOPHIE AND BRAM 5EVA. KEEM 'EM COMING CLEO!!!!!
November 16, 2024
Chilled and Thrilled by Cleo White
4,5/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
I absolutely adored my first holiday romance read of the year! Honestly, I’d read anything Cleo writes at this point. She has a real talent for crafting age-gap forbidden romances with simple plots that still dive deep into the characters. This story is lighter than some of her previous books, making it the perfect read to get into the festive spirit! The chemistry between Bram and Sophie is just fantastic, and their mutual pining from the beginning adds so much to the story.
Sophie has been secretly pining for Bram, her best friend's dad and also her boss, for over a year. She figured he’d never feel the same way, plus she feels guilty about having these feelings for her best friend's dad. So, she tries to put some distance between them to move on, completely unaware that Bram has been feeling the same way since the first day she started at his company. Bram, a successful architect in his 40s who typically doesn’t do relationships, finds everything changes when he meets Sophie. When circumstances force Sophie to stay at Bram's house for a few days, their close proximity makes it impossible for them to hide their feelings, and sparks fly!
I loved everything about this book! The spice, the longing, the characters, and the friendships are all amazing. Even though it’s just a novella, it makes an impact! I found myself swooning, laughing, and even tearing up a bit while reading. I can’t wait to dive into the other books in this series. If you’re looking for a quick, spicy, sweet read with a forbidden vibe, a bit of kink, and all the feels, definitely grab this book when it releases on November 19th.
Thank you so much to Cleo and Luna Literary Management for gifting me the eARC!
4,5/5⭐
3,5/5🌶️
I absolutely adored my first holiday romance read of the year! Honestly, I’d read anything Cleo writes at this point. She has a real talent for crafting age-gap forbidden romances with simple plots that still dive deep into the characters. This story is lighter than some of her previous books, making it the perfect read to get into the festive spirit! The chemistry between Bram and Sophie is just fantastic, and their mutual pining from the beginning adds so much to the story.
Sophie has been secretly pining for Bram, her best friend's dad and also her boss, for over a year. She figured he’d never feel the same way, plus she feels guilty about having these feelings for her best friend's dad. So, she tries to put some distance between them to move on, completely unaware that Bram has been feeling the same way since the first day she started at his company. Bram, a successful architect in his 40s who typically doesn’t do relationships, finds everything changes when he meets Sophie. When circumstances force Sophie to stay at Bram's house for a few days, their close proximity makes it impossible for them to hide their feelings, and sparks fly!
I loved everything about this book! The spice, the longing, the characters, and the friendships are all amazing. Even though it’s just a novella, it makes an impact! I found myself swooning, laughing, and even tearing up a bit while reading. I can’t wait to dive into the other books in this series. If you’re looking for a quick, spicy, sweet read with a forbidden vibe, a bit of kink, and all the feels, definitely grab this book when it releases on November 19th.
Thank you so much to Cleo and Luna Literary Management for gifting me the eARC!
December 25, 2025
Дійсно класна різдвяна новела. Тут у нас snowed in, різниця у віці і трошки запрєщьонкі у вигляді батька найкращої подруги, який окрім цього ще й бос героїні.
Це було мило та гаряче, все як я люблю. Навіть трохи сюжету є з внутрішніми переживаннями героїв. Окремого шарму книзі надає героїня, ну така вона весела бусінка)
Це було мило та гаряче, все як я люблю. Навіть трохи сюжету є з внутрішніми переживаннями героїв. Окремого шарму книзі надає героїня, ну така вона весела бусінка)
December 9, 2024
ALLL the freaking mutual pining a girl could dream of… Still thinking about Bram & Sophie days later!
Definitely my favorite holiday novella to date & I am pretty picky on them! Honestly this forbidden/taboo holiday book was low angst with great spice & the perfect amount of holiday spirit. It was also feel good, I loved the plot just as much as the spice!
Cleos writing was easy to read & I already downloaded another book to read from her backlog. ALSO the little crumbs we got for Honors book?? 🫠
Best friends dad
Workplace romance
Snowed in together
He takes care of her
Mutual pining
Age gap
Perfect plot to spice ratio
Quick read
Low angst
5/5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
“I kiss her and it doesn’t feel like our first time, or our third, or our hundredth. Sophie Nelson, the forbidden fruit, the girl I was never supposed to touch, feels like she was created just for me. I was wrong, more wrong than I’ve ever been about anything. Wanting her like this isn’t a punishment, it’s a gift.”
“You’re doing so well, sweetheart. There’s nothing you won’t do for me, is there?”
Definitely my favorite holiday novella to date & I am pretty picky on them! Honestly this forbidden/taboo holiday book was low angst with great spice & the perfect amount of holiday spirit. It was also feel good, I loved the plot just as much as the spice!
Cleos writing was easy to read & I already downloaded another book to read from her backlog. ALSO the little crumbs we got for Honors book?? 🫠
Best friends dad
Workplace romance
Snowed in together
He takes care of her
Mutual pining
Age gap
Perfect plot to spice ratio
Quick read
Low angst
5/5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️
“I kiss her and it doesn’t feel like our first time, or our third, or our hundredth. Sophie Nelson, the forbidden fruit, the girl I was never supposed to touch, feels like she was created just for me. I was wrong, more wrong than I’ve ever been about anything. Wanting her like this isn’t a punishment, it’s a gift.”
“You’re doing so well, sweetheart. There’s nothing you won’t do for me, is there?”
December 4, 2024
You know what? One of the best novellas I've read. Best friend's dad who's also a kinky and dominant daddy? I'm always down for it.
I would have never guessed but it was a great read. Heartwarming and cute overall. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
I would have never guessed but it was a great read. Heartwarming and cute overall. I can't wait for the next one in the series.
May 27, 2025
I love unexpected 5 star reads
January 2, 2025
Love, Love, LOVED this holiday novella! I am so glad I spent my NYE with Bram + Sophie and said goodbye to 2024 with a 5 star BANGER!! These two should be the standard for best friend's dad and age-gaps. On top of those two wonderful tropes, we also got boss x employee, mutual pining, and him taking care of her. I seriously loved everything about this book and how things progressed so naturally between the two. I'd also like to shout out Honor + Leni for being mature adults with good heads on their shoulders and just being happy for two people they love so much. I really don't have any notes besides wishing it was longer. I want everyone to read it. It doesn't matter that the holidays are over, just read it if you haven't already!
December 9, 2025
This was fun. Finally a Cleo White story that was a home run for me. She loves her spicy age gap kink romances that are usually fast and dirty but this didn't feel like a novella at all which really surprised me. The amount of depth, angst and just sexual tension packed into this 130 page story was very impressive. The slow burn was absolutely delicious and fed my appetite. I was enthralled. Bram Vogel made for a delicious hero with a lot of depth and Sophie was sweet if a bit quirky. It helped that their feelings/mutual secret pining was already established in this office-best friend's dad romance so nothing about this felt rushed. Sophie is Bram's daughter's best friend since college, she started working at Bram's architect firm as an engineer 1 year ago. She's 24 to his 44 years old and he realizes he's attracted to her once she starts working for him. He's known her since she was in college but I love that boundaries are set for how and why she got the job and how good she is at her engineering job. Like I said there was a lot of depth to this. The history and feelings is already there, it didn't feel out of the blue or rushed wish is usually the case with short stories. I loooooved the tension and push and pull and mutual pining. Bram was so sweet, swoony and sexy. They end up getting stuck together during a snowstorm after Sophie has an accident and he takes care of her. There's just something about seasoned masculine older heroes that gets the heartbeat going when it's the right story and good writing. I loved how serious and genuine Bram was about pursuing Sophie once he realizes his feelings were returned. I'll be honest I was a bit leery trying this series since age gaps like this with adult children make me feel weird and I know this writer's kinks but thankfully there was no Daddy kink here. The one "surprise" that happens in the end I went in already knowing about which did help, it didn't feel like a nasty surprise and thankfully it wasn't as awful as I was bracing myself for. I'm forgiving it since I enjoyed the rest of the story so much. Personally I can't see how Holden is hero material with how sleazy he was in this and considering he's being paired up with one of Bram's daughters makes it a little....uncomfortable? weird? but I'll try to keep an open mind if this was anything to go by. lol
December 16, 2024
Contemporary MF
Age Gap (44/24)
Best Friend's Dad (&Boss)
Forbidden-Lite
Low Angst
Forced Proximity
Cute Short Read
Little Bit Kinky
This is a cute little novella with some forbidden elements to it without it being too angsty or OTT. With a Christmas backdrop. Perfect holiday read. I feel like this is a gateway read - like if you are dipping your toes into big age gaps, or forbidden dads/bosses, this would be a good place to start. See if you like it. I actually think this is my first 'best friend's dad' book.
Sophie and Bram have been eyeballing each other for a year, since Sophie's best friend called in a favor to daddy and got Sophie a job at his company. The never acted on the attraction, but when some freak occurrences push them together and trap them in a snow storm over Christmas, naughty shenanigans begin. Even though this was a short read, its jam packed with things that would make Santa blush - including a little bit of a breeding kink.
Age Gap (44/24)
Best Friend's Dad (&Boss)
Forbidden-Lite
Low Angst
Forced Proximity
Cute Short Read
Little Bit Kinky
This is a cute little novella with some forbidden elements to it without it being too angsty or OTT. With a Christmas backdrop. Perfect holiday read. I feel like this is a gateway read - like if you are dipping your toes into big age gaps, or forbidden dads/bosses, this would be a good place to start. See if you like it. I actually think this is my first 'best friend's dad' book.
Sophie and Bram have been eyeballing each other for a year, since Sophie's best friend called in a favor to daddy and got Sophie a job at his company. The never acted on the attraction, but when some freak occurrences push them together and trap them in a snow storm over Christmas, naughty shenanigans begin. Even though this was a short read, its jam packed with things that would make Santa blush - including a little bit of a breeding kink.
May 22, 2025
If you’re my mum reading this, then I just read a wholesome Christmas story and that is all stop reading here.
Now that my mums gone, this book had me blushing, kicking my feet, borderline feral the whole time 😩 who gave cleo the right to write a MAN like THAT 😭 the tension?? the obsession?? i was unwell
it gave EVERYTHING I needed from that book and more. I was side eyeing my man like “have you ever considered becoming emotionally damaged, slightly morally grey and 20 years older than me??” 😂😂
Now that my mums gone, this book had me blushing, kicking my feet, borderline feral the whole time 😩 who gave cleo the right to write a MAN like THAT 😭 the tension?? the obsession?? i was unwell
it gave EVERYTHING I needed from that book and more. I was side eyeing my man like “have you ever considered becoming emotionally damaged, slightly morally grey and 20 years older than me??” 😂😂
November 12, 2024
Cleo does it again with another top tier boyfriend! Bram and Sophie's story is sweet and sexy and brings all the heat!
❄️Age gap
❄️Boss x employee
❄️Best friend's dad
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Snowed in
Sophie has been crushing on her best friend's dad since she met him, and when she gets hired at his company, that attraction gets even stronger. But she doesn't think he feels the same way.
Spoiler alert - HE DOES! But neither of them internally believe that they can cross that line because of Bram's daughter.
This book is filled with ALL THE SPICE!!! Easily Cleo's spiciest book and ya girl is here for it. The journey that she takes us on gives us all the sweet and spicy moments, along with some holiday cheer!
I can't wait for the next two books in the series because I just know they are gonna rock!
❄️Age gap
❄️Boss x employee
❄️Best friend's dad
❄️Forced proximity
❄️Snowed in
Sophie has been crushing on her best friend's dad since she met him, and when she gets hired at his company, that attraction gets even stronger. But she doesn't think he feels the same way.
Spoiler alert - HE DOES! But neither of them internally believe that they can cross that line because of Bram's daughter.
This book is filled with ALL THE SPICE!!! Easily Cleo's spiciest book and ya girl is here for it. The journey that she takes us on gives us all the sweet and spicy moments, along with some holiday cheer!
I can't wait for the next two books in the series because I just know they are gonna rock!
November 23, 2024
I absolutely loved it! This short and spicy holiday read was fantastic. Bram and Sophie finally giving in to their feelings was perfect, they were made for each other!
August 24, 2025
Navideño, corto, cute, muy spicy y con un toque de drama.
(Faltaban 4 meses, pero ya leia libros de navidad ella JAJAJA)
Pd: recién veo el nombre de la trilogía, soy esa JAJAJA
(Faltaban 4 meses, pero ya leia libros de navidad ella JAJAJA)
Pd: recién veo el nombre de la trilogía, soy esa JAJAJA
January 7, 2025
you know what? i had fun.
November 19, 2024
Let me start with saying thank you to Cleo White for this ARC copy of chilled and thrilled!
OMG I have always said that I don’t have a favorite Cleo White book, that I love them all equally… however I am now officially declaring a winner, 🏆 goes to Chilled and Thrilled! 🤩
•
I loved every single thing about this book, from the yearning and pining from both MCs (Bram and Sophie) who didn’t want to take that step because in their own way they were both terrified of the ramifications of what a physical relationship could do their work relationship and Sophie’s relationship with her best friend (who is the MMCs daughter). To the build up of them being snowed in together after Bram saves Sophie’s life.
•
But fate intervened with Sophie’s accident and what ensues after, when they are snowed in together and finally act upon all the longing that they have been avoiding.
•
With Sophie finally admitting to her best friend about her feelings for her dad and how she has lied to her about Christmas every year that they have known each other and how she chose her people over her “blood”family (this part was the sweetest)! And the impact that that this has had on her life/relationships.
•
When Bram didn’t think that he could discover anything else about himself “in the bedroom” but discovers with Sophie there is a certain “kink” that has been unlocked for him, and how he so nonchalantly was like “hmm that’s interesting, I guess I have a *Newly Discovered* Kink”! 🤭 I don’t wanna spoil it (I loved that part and how he admitted it to Sophie).
•
Cleo White knows how to write an Age Gap romance that is so much more than just spice (but the spice was spicy in this one), I love the bond that these two MCs have and how it continues to grow and love each other. Even tho the epilogue jumps a year into the future you and sense the love that has grown between the MCs during that year, without even having anything written about that year.
•
I didn’t want this one to end, I was dreading the percentage going up letting me know how much was left in the book🙃
I would devour any little morsel of extra story points from Chilled and Thrilled that’s how much I am obsessed with this one! It was beautiful to see the growth of Sophie!
OMG I have always said that I don’t have a favorite Cleo White book, that I love them all equally… however I am now officially declaring a winner, 🏆 goes to Chilled and Thrilled! 🤩
•
I loved every single thing about this book, from the yearning and pining from both MCs (Bram and Sophie) who didn’t want to take that step because in their own way they were both terrified of the ramifications of what a physical relationship could do their work relationship and Sophie’s relationship with her best friend (who is the MMCs daughter). To the build up of them being snowed in together after Bram saves Sophie’s life.
•
But fate intervened with Sophie’s accident and what ensues after, when they are snowed in together and finally act upon all the longing that they have been avoiding.
•
With Sophie finally admitting to her best friend about her feelings for her dad and how she has lied to her about Christmas every year that they have known each other and how she chose her people over her “blood”family (this part was the sweetest)! And the impact that that this has had on her life/relationships.
•
When Bram didn’t think that he could discover anything else about himself “in the bedroom” but discovers with Sophie there is a certain “kink” that has been unlocked for him, and how he so nonchalantly was like “hmm that’s interesting, I guess I have a *Newly Discovered* Kink”! 🤭 I don’t wanna spoil it (I loved that part and how he admitted it to Sophie).
•
Cleo White knows how to write an Age Gap romance that is so much more than just spice (but the spice was spicy in this one), I love the bond that these two MCs have and how it continues to grow and love each other. Even tho the epilogue jumps a year into the future you and sense the love that has grown between the MCs during that year, without even having anything written about that year.
•
I didn’t want this one to end, I was dreading the percentage going up letting me know how much was left in the book🙃
I would devour any little morsel of extra story points from Chilled and Thrilled that’s how much I am obsessed with this one! It was beautiful to see the growth of Sophie!
November 22, 2024
man, I love dilfs. that’s it. that’s the review 🤭
March 11, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Honestly, it isn’t a surprise that Cleo White gets another 5-star review from me. She is just sublime when it comes to age-gap romance. I can’t get enough of them.
If you’re looking for a spicy Christmas novella, I strongly recommend giving Chilled and Thrilled a read.
The MMC is a hot and possessive single dad who also happens to be Sophie’s boss.
The FMC is a sweetheart; she’s clever and unfiltered. Oh, and she also happens to be Bram’s daughter’s best friend—but that’s a small detail.
I generally love every MMC that comes from Cleo’s pen, and Bram is no exception. He’s exceptionally sweet and attentive, with delightful kinks (who doesn’t love that?). He gives Sophie the princess treatment, and it made me feel so comfortable that I devoured this novella in less than 24 hours.
Chilled and Thrilled is out on November 19th, and you really shouldn’t miss it.
Main tropes are:
~ Age gap
~ Best friend’s father
~ He is her boss
~ Forced proximity
~ Xmas eve
~ HEA
~ Dual POV
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Honestly, it isn’t a surprise that Cleo White gets another 5-star review from me. She is just sublime when it comes to age-gap romance. I can’t get enough of them.
If you’re looking for a spicy Christmas novella, I strongly recommend giving Chilled and Thrilled a read.
The MMC is a hot and possessive single dad who also happens to be Sophie’s boss.
The FMC is a sweetheart; she’s clever and unfiltered. Oh, and she also happens to be Bram’s daughter’s best friend—but that’s a small detail.
I generally love every MMC that comes from Cleo’s pen, and Bram is no exception. He’s exceptionally sweet and attentive, with delightful kinks (who doesn’t love that?). He gives Sophie the princess treatment, and it made me feel so comfortable that I devoured this novella in less than 24 hours.
Chilled and Thrilled is out on November 19th, and you really shouldn’t miss it.
Main tropes are:
~ Age gap
~ Best friend’s father
~ He is her boss
~ Forced proximity
~ Xmas eve
~ HEA
~ Dual POV
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 6, 2024
4.5⭐️
I'll never get tired of reading forbidden, age-gap romance, and this hit all the right spots for me. A perfectly cute, cozy, and spicy Christmas read.
Bram and Sophie have been secretly pining after each other for over a year, ever since Sophie started working for his company. But they've never expressed or acted on these feelings because Bram is Sophie's best friend's dad, her boss, and 20 years older than her.
I really liked Sophie. She was funny, loyal, strong, and hopelessly in love with Bram. After having feelings for him for so long that seemed unreciprocated, she tried her best to move on. She also felt guilty and like a terrible friend for feeling attracted to her best friend's dad and having to hide these feelings from her. Given her past, it was understandable why she feared opening up. But when they two are forced to spend a few days together while being snowed in, they no longer have an excuse to avoid their feelings.
When Bram finally made his move, Sophie was reluctant to dive headfirst into things with him to avoid heartache while also feeling awful for betraying her friend. But as she spends time with Bram, his words and his actions slowly bring hope about the possibility of a future together.
Bram had a lot of conflicting thoughts regarding wanting Sophie due to their work relationship and her friendship with his daughter. Over the course of the year the two worked together, they slowly developed a bond and a friendship, which led to Bram having serious feelings for Sophie that could no longer be ignored. Bram was so patient yet firm on not letting Sophie run away due to her fears. He waited for her to lower her guard but was completely honest with her about where he saw them going. He was also so thoughtful once he found out more about Sophie's past and made her Christmas special even while being snowed in, doing his best with what he could put together.
Holy shit!!! The spice was totallyyy spicing. Bram was so hot, and I loved the way he took control and all that dirty talking. From the moment his restraint snapped, he was unstoppable. I loved how Sophie matched him every step of the way and wasn't shy. Their chemistry was explosive.
I liked how close Lenora, Honor, and Sophie were, and that first chapter had me laughing so hard. I really loved their friendship.
Thank you to Cleo White and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I'll never get tired of reading forbidden, age-gap romance, and this hit all the right spots for me. A perfectly cute, cozy, and spicy Christmas read.
Bram and Sophie have been secretly pining after each other for over a year, ever since Sophie started working for his company. But they've never expressed or acted on these feelings because Bram is Sophie's best friend's dad, her boss, and 20 years older than her.
I really liked Sophie. She was funny, loyal, strong, and hopelessly in love with Bram. After having feelings for him for so long that seemed unreciprocated, she tried her best to move on. She also felt guilty and like a terrible friend for feeling attracted to her best friend's dad and having to hide these feelings from her. Given her past, it was understandable why she feared opening up. But when they two are forced to spend a few days together while being snowed in, they no longer have an excuse to avoid their feelings.
When Bram finally made his move, Sophie was reluctant to dive headfirst into things with him to avoid heartache while also feeling awful for betraying her friend. But as she spends time with Bram, his words and his actions slowly bring hope about the possibility of a future together.
Bram had a lot of conflicting thoughts regarding wanting Sophie due to their work relationship and her friendship with his daughter. Over the course of the year the two worked together, they slowly developed a bond and a friendship, which led to Bram having serious feelings for Sophie that could no longer be ignored. Bram was so patient yet firm on not letting Sophie run away due to her fears. He waited for her to lower her guard but was completely honest with her about where he saw them going. He was also so thoughtful once he found out more about Sophie's past and made her Christmas special even while being snowed in, doing his best with what he could put together.
Holy shit!!! The spice was totallyyy spicing. Bram was so hot, and I loved the way he took control and all that dirty talking. From the moment his restraint snapped, he was unstoppable. I loved how Sophie matched him every step of the way and wasn't shy. Their chemistry was explosive.
I liked how close Lenora, Honor, and Sophie were, and that first chapter had me laughing so hard. I really loved their friendship.
Thank you to Cleo White and Luna Literary for providing me with the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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