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Festive Trees And Mistletoe
Will this be the year Pete finally gets his kiss at midnight?
For the past two years on New Year’s Eve Pete Harbrook has watched his friends fall in love and share a kiss with their special someone. He’s happy for them, of course he is, but it’s hard always being the single guy.
Then Charlie Dunn comes back into his life.
The last time Pete saw Charlie he’d just been abandoned on New Year’s Eve by his boyfriend. That was almost a year ago. He never expected to see him again, yet here he is.
A holiday fling seems like such a bad idea, but there’s no denying the spark between them. When fate forces them together, it soon becomes a matter of when not if.
Surrounded by Christmas magic and festive cheer, it’s easy to forget that Charlie’s time in Charnwell will end soon. This New Year’s Eve could be the start of something special or yet another countdown that leaves Pete wanting to escape. Only time will tell.
Festive Trees & Mistletoe is a medium-spice MM holiday romance with awesome friends and family, and snuggly holiday feels. It’s the third book in the Hope Valley Christmas collection, but each book can be read as a standalone.
Expect : Friends-to-lovers, forced proximity, a teeny bit of angst and a little fluff. Oh and dogs, because it’s not a Christmas story without them.
219 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2025
5 people are currently reading
35 people want to read
About the author
Annabelle Jacobs
52 books405 followersAnnabelle Jacobs lives in the South West of England with her three rowdy children, and two cats.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
An avid reader of fantasy herself for many years, Annabelle now spends her days writing her own stories. They're usually either fantasy or paranormal fiction, because she loves building worlds filled with magical creatures, and creating stories full of action and adventure. Her characters may have a tough time of it—fighting enemies and adversity—but they always find love in the end.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
December 14, 2025
What a lovely way to round out this series of interlinked romances set in a small town.
Annabelle Jacobs is great at getting to the heart of what makes us tick, two genuinely lovely people with some hang-ups finding the perfect person who can mesh seamlessly into their lives.
I loved Pete when we met him in the previous books and I was so happy to hear she was going to give him his Happy Ever After and that it would be with the guy we caught a glimpse of at the end of the previous book.
Charlie's had a lot going on in the 12 months following that encounter with a friendly guy when he was feeling at his worst and when his best mate suggests another trip to the country inn where he spend his New Year after being dumped, he's conflicted.
But he takes the plunge and we get a wonderful romance with a little bit of angst, a little bit of pining, a lot of sparks and, eventually, a friendship that builds into something special.
Read it with a mug of hot chocolate and a fluffy blanket because it's a perfect festive moment.
Annabelle Jacobs is great at getting to the heart of what makes us tick, two genuinely lovely people with some hang-ups finding the perfect person who can mesh seamlessly into their lives.
I loved Pete when we met him in the previous books and I was so happy to hear she was going to give him his Happy Ever After and that it would be with the guy we caught a glimpse of at the end of the previous book.
Charlie's had a lot going on in the 12 months following that encounter with a friendly guy when he was feeling at his worst and when his best mate suggests another trip to the country inn where he spend his New Year after being dumped, he's conflicted.
But he takes the plunge and we get a wonderful romance with a little bit of angst, a little bit of pining, a lot of sparks and, eventually, a friendship that builds into something special.
Read it with a mug of hot chocolate and a fluffy blanket because it's a perfect festive moment.
December 15, 2025
4.25
The book opens on last year’s New Year’s Eve, where Charlie was staying in at a B&B with pub in Hope Valley with his boyfriend, Dan. Dan is a jerk and breaks up with Charlie that day, leaving him there. “To be fair, he did try to get me to leave with him, but I told him I’d rather cover my bollocks in honey and let the bees have at them.” Pete is at the pub for NYE but can’t handle being the only single one again at midnight, so he takes a breather outside. Charlie does the same, and the two have a 20-minute meeting that gives them both butterflies. Can’t go anywhere as Charlie is leaving in the morning.
Dan is making it difficult to sell their shared flat (and wants Charlie back, so no thank you) and he keeps showing up to do the staging. Charlie is done with that. He’s an author who can write anywhere and has deadlines, so with the help of his BFF, Seb, decides to go back to Hope Valley for the writing retreat holiday. When it turns out Dan needs a place to say, and that means the flat, it’s a done deal. Charlie is headed to Hope Valley. Maybe he will see Pete, added bonus!
I am a sucker for holiday stories, and Pete owning a garden center and Christmas tree farm adds to the ambiance. Hope Valley sounds like such a Christmasy, sweet small town, and I loved the people. Annabelle Jacobs has written some of my favorite Christmas stories, including A Christmas Kiss, Magic and Mistletoe, and No Place Like Home. Somehow, I haven’t read any of the Hope Valley stories until this one.
Charlie and Pete have a meet-cute this time, involving no shirt and scalding tea. “ I thought I’d built up our New Year’s Eve encounter to more than it was, but if anything I’ve underestimated the effect he has on me.” They end up meeting up at the pub for a drink, and the attraction is there. But, and there’s always a but… “But I’m only here for two weeks and I have work to do. That was the whole point of coming here. I don’t have time to get involved with someone when it can never go anywhere.” They live four hours apart, and Charlie’s only here for two weeks. So I get it, two people who aren’t into casual but know this won’t work. “I know nothing about Charlie apart from the fact that his ex left him here last New Year’s Eve.”
They start to text, have lunches together, send each other pics (innocent ones with clothing on!).
The side characters are awesome, from Pete’s sister, Sadie, to the friend group. But I especially loved Charlie’s BFF, the lovely Seb. He works to protect Charlie from Dan, and encourages him to break out of the comfort zone. We all need a friend like Seb. And Sadie with her mistletoe.
“I know you don’t want to start anything. But I like you, Charlie. I like spending time with you. As friends,” he adds, when I open my mouth. “It’s not often I meet someone new living out here, and I’d like to see you again before you go back. If you’re up for it?” I felt bad for Pete at that point, because he’s already showing feelings, but, again, they live hours apart.
Pete wanted to read Charlie’s books but Charlie has had a bad experience with the stupid Dan and worries. “He said I wasn’t good enough to make it as a writer because no one would want to read my shit, and that either I accepted that or we were done.” So when he gives Pete a copy, you know it was a sign of how much he trusted Pete.
The B&B has a roof issue in Charlie’s room at one point. When Charlie calls his bestie, Seb, to tell him, Seb suggests he can stay and hang out with Pete or he could come back home. Charlie says he can’t go home because Dan is at his flat, so Pete steps up and offers the annex to his house. They wouldn’t be staying together, just staying close. Lucky for them, they decide to not fight their feelings quite so hard, even if it will make Charlie leaving suck that much more. And then there is an issue with Dan and the flat and oh, darn, Charlie has to stay in the annex even longer. And like the blurb says, there is an adorable scene with Cooper, the dog.
Charlie and Pete really go back and forth about it, “can’t be with him, it’s just temporary”. While the blurb says there is a little angst, there really isn’t. It’s more of them trying to fight what they are feeling because they don’t live in the same place. It is also pretty insta-love, as it all happens within a few weeks. I never mind that in holiday stories, but just an FYI for those who do.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
The book opens on last year’s New Year’s Eve, where Charlie was staying in at a B&B with pub in Hope Valley with his boyfriend, Dan. Dan is a jerk and breaks up with Charlie that day, leaving him there. “To be fair, he did try to get me to leave with him, but I told him I’d rather cover my bollocks in honey and let the bees have at them.” Pete is at the pub for NYE but can’t handle being the only single one again at midnight, so he takes a breather outside. Charlie does the same, and the two have a 20-minute meeting that gives them both butterflies. Can’t go anywhere as Charlie is leaving in the morning.
Dan is making it difficult to sell their shared flat (and wants Charlie back, so no thank you) and he keeps showing up to do the staging. Charlie is done with that. He’s an author who can write anywhere and has deadlines, so with the help of his BFF, Seb, decides to go back to Hope Valley for the writing retreat holiday. When it turns out Dan needs a place to say, and that means the flat, it’s a done deal. Charlie is headed to Hope Valley. Maybe he will see Pete, added bonus!
I am a sucker for holiday stories, and Pete owning a garden center and Christmas tree farm adds to the ambiance. Hope Valley sounds like such a Christmasy, sweet small town, and I loved the people. Annabelle Jacobs has written some of my favorite Christmas stories, including A Christmas Kiss, Magic and Mistletoe, and No Place Like Home. Somehow, I haven’t read any of the Hope Valley stories until this one.
Charlie and Pete have a meet-cute this time, involving no shirt and scalding tea. “ I thought I’d built up our New Year’s Eve encounter to more than it was, but if anything I’ve underestimated the effect he has on me.” They end up meeting up at the pub for a drink, and the attraction is there. But, and there’s always a but… “But I’m only here for two weeks and I have work to do. That was the whole point of coming here. I don’t have time to get involved with someone when it can never go anywhere.” They live four hours apart, and Charlie’s only here for two weeks. So I get it, two people who aren’t into casual but know this won’t work. “I know nothing about Charlie apart from the fact that his ex left him here last New Year’s Eve.”
They start to text, have lunches together, send each other pics (innocent ones with clothing on!).
The side characters are awesome, from Pete’s sister, Sadie, to the friend group. But I especially loved Charlie’s BFF, the lovely Seb. He works to protect Charlie from Dan, and encourages him to break out of the comfort zone. We all need a friend like Seb. And Sadie with her mistletoe.
“I know you don’t want to start anything. But I like you, Charlie. I like spending time with you. As friends,” he adds, when I open my mouth. “It’s not often I meet someone new living out here, and I’d like to see you again before you go back. If you’re up for it?” I felt bad for Pete at that point, because he’s already showing feelings, but, again, they live hours apart.
Pete wanted to read Charlie’s books but Charlie has had a bad experience with the stupid Dan and worries. “He said I wasn’t good enough to make it as a writer because no one would want to read my shit, and that either I accepted that or we were done.” So when he gives Pete a copy, you know it was a sign of how much he trusted Pete.
The B&B has a roof issue in Charlie’s room at one point. When Charlie calls his bestie, Seb, to tell him, Seb suggests he can stay and hang out with Pete or he could come back home. Charlie says he can’t go home because Dan is at his flat, so Pete steps up and offers the annex to his house. They wouldn’t be staying together, just staying close. Lucky for them, they decide to not fight their feelings quite so hard, even if it will make Charlie leaving suck that much more. And then there is an issue with Dan and the flat and oh, darn, Charlie has to stay in the annex even longer. And like the blurb says, there is an adorable scene with Cooper, the dog.
Charlie and Pete really go back and forth about it, “can’t be with him, it’s just temporary”. While the blurb says there is a little angst, there really isn’t. It’s more of them trying to fight what they are feeling because they don’t live in the same place. It is also pretty insta-love, as it all happens within a few weeks. I never mind that in holiday stories, but just an FYI for those who do.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
February 2, 2026
DNF @ 25%
Chapter 1 was very weird. Why'd we need to see Charlie booking a weekend away then coming back (especially since he wasn't going back to see Pete anyway?) Why not start the story when things were actually happening instead of a random non-start where Charlie plans an inconsequential weekend away that we don't even see happen since it goes from "Book it" to "I came back to my flat..." in literally the next paragraph?
Also, wtf was up with the weirdass dynamic between Charlie, his ex Dan, and Seb? Why was Seb acting as the in between? Was Seb even on Charlie's side? He was implied to have been, but somehow he's also organizing for Dan to stay at the apartment? What exactly was the relationship between the three???
It took way too long for Charlie and Pete to actually meet on page. We did not need each of them to receive two separate instances of "Go find love!" talks with their friends each (a total of at least four that I could remember) before they actually began interacting.
Charlie and Pete acting all awkward when they had their little date wasn't cute or romantic, it was just confusing. Why did the story act like Pete asking Charlie what he did for work was something frictional? Why were they constantly apologizing and dodging questions as if Charlie writing for a living was something incredibly personal or off-putting? There was absolutely zero chemistry there since it was all just awkward. I guess we're supposed to assume that Charlie was insecure about his writing, but seeing him get bristly and tense from Pete's POV was confusing because it's not normal to immediately be defensive about something so innocuous from a stranger. Then there's the sudden "I don't want sex" from both of them (as if the date had been going on so well for them to put that on the table)
I had to DNF after that awkward ass first date because it was just so bad. You're telling me these two men had a date with a dumpster fire of missed intentions and absolutely nothing positive coming from it yet somehow they leave off wanting to have more interactions with each other? Talk about forcing a romance. I'd have understood if we saw Charlie and Pete actually move past the awkwardness, but the date basically goes from Charlie's weird insecurity, to both of them admitting they were attracted to each other but don't want sex, to a short timeskip where they supposedly warmed up to one another enough to want to try to be friends. I needed to see what exactly happened in that time to overwrite how bad the start had gone.
TL;DR: Weird pacing (unnecessary scenes, takes way too long for MCs to actually start talking) and very very poor romance (aka that date was awful).
Chapter 1 was very weird. Why'd we need to see Charlie booking a weekend away then coming back (especially since he wasn't going back to see Pete anyway?) Why not start the story when things were actually happening instead of a random non-start where Charlie plans an inconsequential weekend away that we don't even see happen since it goes from "Book it" to "I came back to my flat..." in literally the next paragraph?
Also, wtf was up with the weirdass dynamic between Charlie, his ex Dan, and Seb? Why was Seb acting as the in between? Was Seb even on Charlie's side? He was implied to have been, but somehow he's also organizing for Dan to stay at the apartment? What exactly was the relationship between the three???
It took way too long for Charlie and Pete to actually meet on page. We did not need each of them to receive two separate instances of "Go find love!" talks with their friends each (a total of at least four that I could remember) before they actually began interacting.
Charlie and Pete acting all awkward when they had their little date wasn't cute or romantic, it was just confusing. Why did the story act like Pete asking Charlie what he did for work was something frictional? Why were they constantly apologizing and dodging questions as if Charlie writing for a living was something incredibly personal or off-putting? There was absolutely zero chemistry there since it was all just awkward. I guess we're supposed to assume that Charlie was insecure about his writing, but seeing him get bristly and tense from Pete's POV was confusing because it's not normal to immediately be defensive about something so innocuous from a stranger. Then there's the sudden "I don't want sex" from both of them (as if the date had been going on so well for them to put that on the table)
I had to DNF after that awkward ass first date because it was just so bad. You're telling me these two men had a date with a dumpster fire of missed intentions and absolutely nothing positive coming from it yet somehow they leave off wanting to have more interactions with each other? Talk about forcing a romance. I'd have understood if we saw Charlie and Pete actually move past the awkwardness, but the date basically goes from Charlie's weird insecurity, to both of them admitting they were attracted to each other but don't want sex, to a short timeskip where they supposedly warmed up to one another enough to want to try to be friends. I needed to see what exactly happened in that time to overwrite how bad the start had gone.
TL;DR: Weird pacing (unnecessary scenes, takes way too long for MCs to actually start talking) and very very poor romance (aka that date was awful).
December 19, 2025
Pete has watched his friends fall in love and share New Years kisses. All but him. It's yet another New Years single and watching his friends be in love and start the new year with their special someone. Pete wants a special someone too but after some failed relationships and him not wanting to leave the town he loves, where he also co owns a Christmas tree farm and a garden center with his sister, he's beginning to think he's the problem and probably won't ever find someone. That is until he meets Charlie outside the pub as one of the only ones outside while the count down starts. Charlie was just dumped and left in the town he was visiting. Not how he expected his holiday to go but things happen and one of the most unexpected things is meeting Pete outside while he seeks cover from kissing couples right after getting broken up with. They connect but it's one of those "wrong time but if things were different" situations and after a nice chat they part ways and go back to their lives. Only a year later neither has forgotten the other and troubles with Charlie's ex and the selling of their flat as well as Charlie's fond memories of Pete have him booking a room in that same town he visited awhile back giving him space from his ex and time to write his book as he's an author. It's also an opportunity he was both scared and excited for to get to know the man who made such a terrible night a bit brighter. The spark and curiosity is there but Charlie is only in town for a few weeks before he's set to be home for Christmas and New Years and neither of them are fond of one night stands so they agree to be friends. But as life is being friends with someone you genuinely enjoy spending time with, are attracted to, get along with and have so much chemistry that you want to kiss them all the time isn't easy. They pine and pine and made me want to scream but they both have insecurities and doubts (even though Charlie held onto his a little longer) and it made their story just as sweet as it was frustrating at times. But when they gave in it was so beautiful and they were so right for each other. They finally found someone to treat them right, love, support and accept no matter what. Such a good low angst and a tad bit spicy holiday romance with a feel good HEA. Well done and I'm looking foward to reading more books by this author.
December 4, 2025
Cute, sweet romance between Pete, the tree farmer and Charlie, the writer.
They first meet on New Year's Eve, when Charlie's ex has left him at the pub after breaking up with him. They meet again 9 months later when Charlie comes back to town looking for a place to stay while finishing his book. (His ex has temporarily moved back into the flat they're trying to sell and Charlie doesn't want to be there at the same time.) Sparks fly between Charlie & Pete again, but neither wants to start anything because Charlie has to go home in a few weeks. There's a leaky roof that forces Charlie to move out of the hotel and in with Pete, there's a dog, there's tree cutting and decorating, and an average amount of spice (because the whole 'not starting anything' really didn't work out). In the end they figure out their logistics and get their HEA.
The only real issue I had with this book was that for most of it I was thinking 'manufactured drama'. Charlie talked incessantly about having to go back home, about how a long distance romance wouldn't work. From what I'd read, Charlie was a writer who was trying to sell the flat he was living in - afterwards he would have to look for another place to live. Since he was a writer, where did it matter WHERE he lived? WHY did he have to go back home (4 hours away from Pete)? Suddenly towards the end of the book, the author mentions that Charlie has an actual job in an office doing...well, SOMEthing, and that's the reason he needs to go home. All this time I'm thinking he's making money being an author (that's all he did for three weeks with no mention of a different job). So if that one little problem could have been addressed early on, this whole thing would have made a lot more sense...
Anyhow, still fun and cute and worth the read.
They first meet on New Year's Eve, when Charlie's ex has left him at the pub after breaking up with him. They meet again 9 months later when Charlie comes back to town looking for a place to stay while finishing his book. (His ex has temporarily moved back into the flat they're trying to sell and Charlie doesn't want to be there at the same time.) Sparks fly between Charlie & Pete again, but neither wants to start anything because Charlie has to go home in a few weeks. There's a leaky roof that forces Charlie to move out of the hotel and in with Pete, there's a dog, there's tree cutting and decorating, and an average amount of spice (because the whole 'not starting anything' really didn't work out). In the end they figure out their logistics and get their HEA.
The only real issue I had with this book was that for most of it I was thinking 'manufactured drama'. Charlie talked incessantly about having to go back home, about how a long distance romance wouldn't work. From what I'd read, Charlie was a writer who was trying to sell the flat he was living in - afterwards he would have to look for another place to live. Since he was a writer, where did it matter WHERE he lived? WHY did he have to go back home (4 hours away from Pete)? Suddenly towards the end of the book, the author mentions that Charlie has an actual job in an office doing...well, SOMEthing, and that's the reason he needs to go home. All this time I'm thinking he's making money being an author (that's all he did for three weeks with no mention of a different job). So if that one little problem could have been addressed early on, this whole thing would have made a lot more sense...
Anyhow, still fun and cute and worth the read.
December 9, 2025
FESTIVE TREES AND MISTLETOE is the perfectly named book three in the Hope Valley Christmas series. You don't have to read the other books before this one, although I'm sure you'll want to.
Pete is the one who lives in Hope Valley, well, Charnwell actually. He runs a Christmas Tree Farm and Garden Centre with his sister, Sadie. Charlie was spending time over Christmas and New Year in the village pub when he got dumped. Pete and Charlie meet on New Year's Eve, when both of them end up outside, unwilling to witness all the happy couples around them bringing in the New Year. There is a spark of attraction, but Charlie has literally just been dumped, so nothing happens. Not until the next December anyway...
This is a cosy read, full of Christmas cheer, and two men who really belong together, but decide they are going to be 'just friends'. You can imagine how well that works out, but they do have a couple of little speed bumps along the way. Both of these guys are wonderful, but Pete is seriously a 'good guy' in the best way possible. Throw in a hot lumberjack vibe too, and all is good in the world!
I loved that this was mostly low angst, with just the usual quandaries and worries that every new relationship brings when you live in two different places. Cooper and Jax also made my heart melt!
All in all, this was a brilliant Christmas read, that is slow-burn but high heat. I absolutely loved it and HIGHLY RECOMMEND it.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 9, 2025
Pete is the one who lives in Hope Valley, well, Charnwell actually. He runs a Christmas Tree Farm and Garden Centre with his sister, Sadie. Charlie was spending time over Christmas and New Year in the village pub when he got dumped. Pete and Charlie meet on New Year's Eve, when both of them end up outside, unwilling to witness all the happy couples around them bringing in the New Year. There is a spark of attraction, but Charlie has literally just been dumped, so nothing happens. Not until the next December anyway...
This is a cosy read, full of Christmas cheer, and two men who really belong together, but decide they are going to be 'just friends'. You can imagine how well that works out, but they do have a couple of little speed bumps along the way. Both of these guys are wonderful, but Pete is seriously a 'good guy' in the best way possible. Throw in a hot lumberjack vibe too, and all is good in the world!
I loved that this was mostly low angst, with just the usual quandaries and worries that every new relationship brings when you live in two different places. Cooper and Jax also made my heart melt!
All in all, this was a brilliant Christmas read, that is slow-burn but high heat. I absolutely loved it and HIGHLY RECOMMEND it.
** Same worded review will appear elsewhere. **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Dec 9, 2025
December 10, 2025
This was the kind of book that demanded to be read while curled up in cozy blankets with a hot drink - so that's what I did. The pining here is absolutely top notch and well-written - enough yearning to make your heart ache but never so heavy that it tips into melodramatic. Pete and Charlie are perfect together, and Pete is so respectful of Charlie's wish for a platonic relationship and of Charlie's writing. He lets Charlie set the pace and it was really nice to see Charlie's want grow from chapter to chapter.
I loved that this was sort-of a second chance romance but not really - Pete and Charlie had met before but they were never anything more than two strangers sharing a moment. And yet, that one conversation was powerful enough that neither could forget the other. There's something magical about that kind of spark and this book takes us on that journey perfectly. (And Charlie and the gloves? I loved that little detail.)
Their reunion, the close proximity factor (because there were definitely other options), the meddling friends and sister, the small-town vibe and a resuce dog? Come on. This is book is filled with the softest of queer joy and festiveness, and I really just need more. I loved the second Hope Valley book and the first one is going to be read this month. I read them out of order, and they all work as standalones, but if you want the backstories of every character, read them in order.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
I loved that this was sort-of a second chance romance but not really - Pete and Charlie had met before but they were never anything more than two strangers sharing a moment. And yet, that one conversation was powerful enough that neither could forget the other. There's something magical about that kind of spark and this book takes us on that journey perfectly. (And Charlie and the gloves? I loved that little detail.)
Their reunion, the close proximity factor (because there were definitely other options), the meddling friends and sister, the small-town vibe and a resuce dog? Come on. This is book is filled with the softest of queer joy and festiveness, and I really just need more. I loved the second Hope Valley book and the first one is going to be read this month. I read them out of order, and they all work as standalones, but if you want the backstories of every character, read them in order.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
December 17, 2025
Annabelle Jacobs writes wonderful Christmas stories and "Festive Trees and Mistletoe" is an excellent example. Charlie and Pete exchange conversation, winter gloves and a cheek kiss as the ball drops on a new year. 15-20 minutes together at best, but neither can forget the other.
Seven months later, Charlie's ex, Dan, is blocking the sale of the home they shared because he wants Charlie back. Dan also needs a place to stay. So Seb, Charlie's besttie, decides to sign Charlie up for a writer's retreat in Hope Springs so he can avoid him. Charlie and Pete meet again.
Slow burn, very slow. The two decide on 'just being friends', and we all know how well that usually works out. I liked how there was some romance in this mm story and a relationship was forged before they jumped into bed. Charlie was cautious, Pete respected that. And yes, their first kiss had me all "Awwww."
Friends and family helped push them together. Cameos from the two previous books. Such a sweet, touching story. Definitely a cocoa and cuddly blanket read.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from GRR and this is my review.
Seven months later, Charlie's ex, Dan, is blocking the sale of the home they shared because he wants Charlie back. Dan also needs a place to stay. So Seb, Charlie's besttie, decides to sign Charlie up for a writer's retreat in Hope Springs so he can avoid him. Charlie and Pete meet again.
Slow burn, very slow. The two decide on 'just being friends', and we all know how well that usually works out. I liked how there was some romance in this mm story and a relationship was forged before they jumped into bed. Charlie was cautious, Pete respected that. And yes, their first kiss had me all "Awwww."
Friends and family helped push them together. Cameos from the two previous books. Such a sweet, touching story. Definitely a cocoa and cuddly blanket read.
I received an advanced copy of this ebook from GRR and this is my review.
December 15, 2025
4.5 stars, rounding up in the spirit of holiday cheer - I've read every book in this series and I think they're getting better year to year. This one really worked for me. It is in many ways a very standard Christmas romance, hitting a lot of the expected beats, but the pacing is a bit more restrained, and the build of intimacy from holding hands to lingering hugs, to eventually kissing . . . I appreciated that the characters appreciated all the various forms of touch and didn't rush headlong into sex. I like variety in my romances, and this is novel enough to be notable.
I also think this could be read as a standalone, despite some characters from previous installments making appearances. Definitely doesn't overwhelm the story being told, thankfully, and definitely one I'll probably return to for an infusion of Christmas spirit in years to come.
Many thanks to GRR for the review copy!
I also think this could be read as a standalone, despite some characters from previous installments making appearances. Definitely doesn't overwhelm the story being told, thankfully, and definitely one I'll probably return to for an infusion of Christmas spirit in years to come.
Many thanks to GRR for the review copy!
December 19, 2025
“Festive Trees and Mistletoe” by Annabelle Jacobs is part of the ‘Hope Valley Christmas’ collection and features Pete, tree farm and plant nursery owner, and Charlie, author, who have a brief but memorable encounter on New Year’s Eve that they don’t build on until a meddling friend engineers a subsequent meeting.
This adult contemporary small-town gay romance is perfect for the holiday season with its likeable characters and slow-burn romance. I haven’t read the connecting stories, but I had no trouble becoming invested in seeing these two get their HEA and find romance so they can stop envying their friends’ relationships. I was occasionally a little puzzled by the different cultural references, but they enhanced the story, and of course the dog added to the warm, aww moments. I enjoyed the author’s style, and I will definitely be looking for other of her stories.
A copy of this title was provided for review
This adult contemporary small-town gay romance is perfect for the holiday season with its likeable characters and slow-burn romance. I haven’t read the connecting stories, but I had no trouble becoming invested in seeing these two get their HEA and find romance so they can stop envying their friends’ relationships. I was occasionally a little puzzled by the different cultural references, but they enhanced the story, and of course the dog added to the warm, aww moments. I enjoyed the author’s style, and I will definitely be looking for other of her stories.
A copy of this title was provided for review
December 19, 2025
It is tough being the one without a partner as all of your friends find their someone. Pete has spent the past couple of years feeling on the outside and then comes Charlie back into his life. They had met the previous year when Charlie was left by his beau and this year Charlie is there for Pete. This was their let's see what might happen moment. I appreciated that they did not just jump into something but they let things build between them. They started in a good place as friends and that gave them time to grow into something more. This set just the right tone and built the anticipation for them to get together. When they got there it felt right. Two good guys who each found a good guy and no longer have to be on their own for midnight at New Year's.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2025
One of the queens of PNR also has the best Christmas series! Latest entry in the Hope Valley Christmas saga gives us Pete, local tree farmer, and Charlie, recently dumped by boyfriend, making such a perfect but unfortunately brief connection outside of everyone’s favorite inn in Charnwell on NYE. Will they ever see each other again? Oh please, this is a Christmas romance! But I love how Annabelle allows this to play out over 12 months. We get slow burn but chemistry off the page, just friends, end date, meddling friends and family! Heck, even the Inn conspires to move these two along their HEA path. It’s just so snuggly and lovely in the Holidays way! You can read this as a standalone but the other two are just as charming, so just read them all!
December 13, 2025
This is a holiday romance with little angst and lots of sweetness. Both of the main characters are deeply likable, and the author does a credible job of making the “obstacles that didn’t need to be obstacles” (doubting feelings, second guessing the romantic gestures, a tiny commute) feel more like products of the characters’ very real insecurities than just necessary plot devices (to be fair, they’re clearly that too). There’s Christmas magic galore, at least one adorable animal, and a plethora of friends and family who in real life would be maddeningly meddlesome but are, by the rules of holiday romance, better described more charitably as “charmingly invested” in Charlie and Pete’s happiness. All in all an enjoyable read.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 18, 2025
Festive Trees & Mistletoe is a wonderfully cosy holiday romance that made me smile from start to finish. Pete has always felt like the odd one out, and it was lovely to finally see him take centre stage and get the chance at happiness he deserves. His connection with Charlie feels easy and genuine, with just the right balance of warmth, longing and festive sparkle.
The small-town setting, familiar faces and gentle Christmas atmosphere add to the charm, while the slow build between Pete and Charlie kept me fully invested. There’s a touch of angst, plenty of heart, and some truly sweet moments that make this a perfect seasonal read. I finished it feeling content, festive, and very fond of these characters.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
The small-town setting, familiar faces and gentle Christmas atmosphere add to the charm, while the slow build between Pete and Charlie kept me fully invested. There’s a touch of angst, plenty of heart, and some truly sweet moments that make this a perfect seasonal read. I finished it feeling content, festive, and very fond of these characters.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
December 9, 2025
I want to move to Hope Valley for no other reason than to hug Pete because that guy deserves all the love. Tree farmer and Nursery owner, he loves his small town and career, sadly, he’s struggling to find someone who could love it beside him.
And a year's worth of pinning for the man he met briefly last New Year's Eve. Melt my heart.
Thanks to some meddling from Charlie’s BFF, and the need to escape a fool of an Ex, they have a chance this holiday season, if only they can convince themselves to put their hearts on the line.
It’s a lovely story, and I adore both the guys and their friends and family that surround them.
And a year's worth of pinning for the man he met briefly last New Year's Eve. Melt my heart.
Thanks to some meddling from Charlie’s BFF, and the need to escape a fool of an Ex, they have a chance this holiday season, if only they can convince themselves to put their hearts on the line.
It’s a lovely story, and I adore both the guys and their friends and family that surround them.
December 17, 2025
A wonderful cozy holiday read. this book reminds me of a sweet draw me in hallmark cozy Christmas story. A sweet, slow moving, love story of Pete, the local tree farmer, and Charlie, who recently was left by his boyfriend. The two meet, connect, and go their own ways, but soon life brings them back together. Told over 12 months, this book filled my heart, and left me feeling festive. While it is part of a series and can easily be read as a standalone book, you will get more if you read the books in order. A great small town romance, with strong characters and fun city. I read this one in one sitting as I could not put it down.
December 19, 2025
Steady, gets you your man. Pete, is content on his Christmas Tree farm, but lonely. It's hard to watch all his friends coupled up while he is still alone. Charlie, never forgot meeting Pete or Pete helping him out. He goes for a two week visit hoping to. See Pete again, but not obvious. The story is one of friendly courtship between two men who know themselves and appreciate who they are and what they want. Some old friends stick around offering support and friendship. Good pace, nice flow, great story. The romance is stunning and heartfelt. Nicely done, hot cover art! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Read
December 18, 2025If you're looking for a fairly low angst, mildly spicy holiday romance to read curled up with your kindle and a hot mulled cider, comfy blanket and the fire roaring.. than look no further than a Hope Valley Christmas... small town, last man in the friend group to get his HEA, adorable stray puppy, a leaky roof, the magic of Christmas...
Both men are sweet and ready for love, although Charlie comes with some mild past trauma to work through... and of course the expectation of a holiday vacation romance that we all know will grow into more...
Great Hallmark vibes from this one!
Both men are sweet and ready for love, although Charlie comes with some mild past trauma to work through... and of course the expectation of a holiday vacation romance that we all know will grow into more...
Great Hallmark vibes from this one!
December 24, 2025
A New Year's Eve encounter one year leads to Charlie deciding to escape his ex- the next year by returning to the same small town again and he and Charlie find they still strike sparks. This is a wonderfully cozy, small town holiday story with two main characters who deserve all the happiness they can get. Pete, single and watching all his friends find their special someone and Charlie still smarting over a bad breakup and an ex- who won't go away. Perfect for a blanket and a hot drink reading session.
December 9, 2025
I love the have to move in with each other scenarios and our leaky roof gave us the in for Pete and Charlie. Pete is such a sweet and simple guy just hoping for someone of his own to love for the Holidays. Charlie was still having trust issues when it comes to relationship which is understandable so these two just kind of slowly mesh together as he sorts out his past. Low angst and comfy times on Pete's tree farm complete with cute dog!
January 4, 2026
Lovely Christmas romance.
* small town (in the UK)
* lumberjack (actually he's a Christmas tree farmer, but same difference)
* writer (not another romance writer!)
* holiday romance becomes more.
* dog daddies
* rescue doggy
* enforced proximity (kinda)
* taking it slow
* no one is ready to risk their hearts
* Pete thinks he'll be alone forever. But he's not.
I realised I haven't read book 2. I need to rectify that sooner rather than later.
* small town (in the UK)
* lumberjack (actually he's a Christmas tree farmer, but same difference)
* writer (not another romance writer!)
* holiday romance becomes more.
* dog daddies
* rescue doggy
* enforced proximity (kinda)
* taking it slow
* no one is ready to risk their hearts
* Pete thinks he'll be alone forever. But he's not.
I realised I haven't read book 2. I need to rectify that sooner rather than later.
December 10, 2025
This was adorable and sweet and just very real. Nothing was perfect, which makes me love these boys even more.
After being left on holiday hours from home at New Years, Charlie meets Pete, a local. They share a moment at midnight, then go back to their regularly scheduled lives for a year. When Charlie returns in December the next year, it's not a coincidence when he sees Pete again and fairy lights twinkle between them. But, nothing can happen. Right?
I loved that they both decided on being 'just friends' and it worked out well, until it didn't. They were adorable at trying to pretend nothing was going on and their heated stares were just... casual.
By the time romance hit the pages I was wowed and eager to see them actually together and it was so sweet. I really genuinely enjoyed both characters, their pasts, personalities, and differences.
I really loved this story. It was a total comfort, by the fire, under the mistletoe read.
After being left on holiday hours from home at New Years, Charlie meets Pete, a local. They share a moment at midnight, then go back to their regularly scheduled lives for a year. When Charlie returns in December the next year, it's not a coincidence when he sees Pete again and fairy lights twinkle between them. But, nothing can happen. Right?
I loved that they both decided on being 'just friends' and it worked out well, until it didn't. They were adorable at trying to pretend nothing was going on and their heated stares were just... casual.
By the time romance hit the pages I was wowed and eager to see them actually together and it was so sweet. I really genuinely enjoyed both characters, their pasts, personalities, and differences.
I really loved this story. It was a total comfort, by the fire, under the mistletoe read.
December 7, 2025
This was such a great holiday story about 2 people who've been hurt trying to find their way to love. It was more of a slow-burn than I'm used to, but it it didn't feel lacking. I enjoyed the build up on tension.
I definitely want to read more by this author.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
I definitely want to read more by this author.
I received an advanced copy and voluntarily gave my honest review.
December 16, 2025
This was my first read by this author and I absolutely fell in love with this story from the very first page. I devoured this book in one sitting and could not put this down for even a second. I could not get enough of this story or these characters. I definitely need to pick up other books by this author asap.
December 18, 2025
Thank you for the book; here is my honest opinion:
3.5⭐️Nice characters, Charlie and Pete are lovely together and easy to root for and the setting is richly crafted. I liked it, it just felt long, especially considering there’s really nothing standing in the way of a happy ending for these two. A nice low drama read, just dragged a little for me.
3.5⭐️Nice characters, Charlie and Pete are lovely together and easy to root for and the setting is richly crafted. I liked it, it just felt long, especially considering there’s really nothing standing in the way of a happy ending for these two. A nice low drama read, just dragged a little for me.
December 27, 2025
Sweet, slow-burn, forced proximity
I loved Pete and Charlie.
Pete wants his perfect holiday romance to build into forever and Charlie is still leery after being hurt.
A leaky roof forces them to share a different roof together.
It was wonderful to see them begin a friendship that slowly develops into something much more as they realize they're perfect together.
I loved Pete and Charlie.
Pete wants his perfect holiday romance to build into forever and Charlie is still leery after being hurt.
A leaky roof forces them to share a different roof together.
It was wonderful to see them begin a friendship that slowly develops into something much more as they realize they're perfect together.
December 19, 2025
If you’re looking for a sweet, hopeful holiday romance, I highly recommend giving this one a try. What begins as a chance encounter on New Year’s Eve swiftly transforms into a what-if, right person/wrong time scenario. Is it ridiculous to be infatuated with someone after only a few minutes? So infatuated that you’re still thinking about him weeks, then months later? It’s that kind of wonder and longing that keeps hope alive with the promise of maybe and someday for Pete & Charlie.
But that’s only part of it. The friendship and connection that unfolds between them is heartwarming and genuine. There’s a spark of interest and attraction that ignites when they’re together, bringing them closer in a way that’s swoony, sweet, and feels undeniably right.
This story can definitely be read as a standalone, but if you have the time, I recommend reading the entire Hope Valley Christmas trilogy, beginning with Festive Friends with Benefits. This small town holiday series features terrific characters and heartfelt romance, each story building on the last in a way that’ll have you smitten and leave you feeling satisfied.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
But that’s only part of it. The friendship and connection that unfolds between them is heartwarming and genuine. There’s a spark of interest and attraction that ignites when they’re together, bringing them closer in a way that’s swoony, sweet, and feels undeniably right.
This story can definitely be read as a standalone, but if you have the time, I recommend reading the entire Hope Valley Christmas trilogy, beginning with Festive Friends with Benefits. This small town holiday series features terrific characters and heartfelt romance, each story building on the last in a way that’ll have you smitten and leave you feeling satisfied.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
December 12, 2025
A fun little sweetheart of a read, perfect for Christmastime---and New Year's, just to round things out. Perfect amount of steam, some fun, and a HEA. That said, I enjoyed this, but Jacobs' Dark Forest series is definitely my favorite of hers. Lots more of everything, please!!
dnf
December 17, 2025DNF @ 43% - It's not poorly written, it's just so low angst that there's NO angst or drama or driving action. I tried to read this series in order before reading this book and DNF'd book 1 at 54%, then picked this one up hoping it was better only to DNF at 43%. This author just isn't for me.
December 18, 2025
What a super cute read! This is book 3 in a series but the first one that I read and I enjoyed it! Super cute, holiday read! Met at new years eve last year and reconnected just before Christmas this year. Cute, low angst read!
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