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Weekend Wonderland #1
Peppermint Wishes
No one should be alone for Christmas. At least, that’s what Evelyn Montgomery‘s parents always told her. So when she finds herself very alone for the festive holiday, she decides to book a weekend at Sutton Lake.
It’s there, in a whirlwind of fate, that she meets Jonathan, her gorgeous, albeit grumpy, neighbor across the lake, who also happens to be spending Christmas alone.
After sharing the weekend together, they part ways, but when she leaves, Evelyn realizes maybe parting ways isn’t what she wants at all.
Returning to Sutton Lake to find him, she discovers that not everything about that Christmas weekend was as it seemed. Jonathan is nowhere to be found, and no one from the town remembers her from her visit just one week ago.
Doubting herself, Evelyn wonders if she made it all up.
Was her trip to Sutton Lake just a dream?
And if it was, maybe that means Jonathan was just a figment of her peppermint wishes.
It’s there, in a whirlwind of fate, that she meets Jonathan, her gorgeous, albeit grumpy, neighbor across the lake, who also happens to be spending Christmas alone.
After sharing the weekend together, they part ways, but when she leaves, Evelyn realizes maybe parting ways isn’t what she wants at all.
Returning to Sutton Lake to find him, she discovers that not everything about that Christmas weekend was as it seemed. Jonathan is nowhere to be found, and no one from the town remembers her from her visit just one week ago.
Doubting herself, Evelyn wonders if she made it all up.
Was her trip to Sutton Lake just a dream?
And if it was, maybe that means Jonathan was just a figment of her peppermint wishes.
168 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 10, 2023
47 people are currently reading
416 people want to read
About the author
D.L. Darby
14 books349 followersD.L. Darby lives in Anchorage, Alaska with her husband, dog, and cat. When she’s not working at her salon, she enjoys reading, hiking (when the weather is nice), and watching silly reality t.v. shows. She loves to travel and one day hopes to be able to attend all of the bookish conventions in one year.
You can find her on TikTok @d.l.darby_author
Or join her reader group on FB at D.L. Darby’s Darlings
You can find her on TikTok @d.l.darby_author
Or join her reader group on FB at D.L. Darby’s Darlings
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
November 20, 2023
4 💘❄️🍬🎄⭐️s
While I don’t usually read seasonal books or short stories, when I saw D.L. Darby’s one I was intrigued.
Wonderfully written, and sexy, the story had a beginning, a middle and an end.
Tbh, I was afraid that the plot would have an expected and cliche twist towards the end, yet the author surprised me pleasantly! 😱😱
I still don’t know if I am happy or not with the outcome, but regardless I enjoyed it so much!!!!
As the author mentioned, “ It’s a Christmas miracle that can’t be explained…”
While I don’t usually read seasonal books or short stories, when I saw D.L. Darby’s one I was intrigued.
Wonderfully written, and sexy, the story had a beginning, a middle and an end.
Tbh, I was afraid that the plot would have an expected and cliche twist towards the end, yet the author surprised me pleasantly! 😱😱
I still don’t know if I am happy or not with the outcome, but regardless I enjoyed it so much!!!!
As the author mentioned, “ It’s a Christmas miracle that can’t be explained…”
November 10, 2024
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
Well that emotionally wrecked me. DL Darby knows how to rip my heart out every time. This one wasn’t as tragic as Where the Flowers Bloom, but I still felt that intense sadness upon finishing it. I love a good Christmas/holiday novella, and this one did not disappoint.
Well that emotionally wrecked me. DL Darby knows how to rip my heart out every time. This one wasn’t as tragic as Where the Flowers Bloom, but I still felt that intense sadness upon finishing it. I love a good Christmas/holiday novella, and this one did not disappoint.
November 8, 2023
D.L. Darby knows what to rip your heart in heart and then try to tape it back together.
I absolutely love this book! I did not read the blurb before going into this book.
My heart was broken 💔 I felt for Evie and the pain she was going through and all the people she has lost. D.L. Darby knows how to write romance with these heart breaking and deep issues that were going on.
I loved the ending. Was it the ending I excepted? No. How I need more from Evie.
If you love:
🔺Grumpy / Sunshine
🔺She likes to eat / He likes to meet her
🔺Major Christmas vibes
🔺Only for the weekend
Genre: Holiday RomCom
APK: Ebook
Pages: 168
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Stand-alone
Content Warnings: Death (Spouse, Children, Parents), Cheating, Miscarriages
I absolutely love this book! I did not read the blurb before going into this book.
My heart was broken 💔 I felt for Evie and the pain she was going through and all the people she has lost. D.L. Darby knows how to write romance with these heart breaking and deep issues that were going on.
I loved the ending. Was it the ending I excepted? No. How I need more from Evie.
If you love:
🔺Grumpy / Sunshine
🔺She likes to eat / He likes to meet her
🔺Major Christmas vibes
🔺Only for the weekend
Genre: Holiday RomCom
APK: Ebook
Pages: 168
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Series or Standalone: Stand-alone
Content Warnings: Death (Spouse, Children, Parents), Cheating, Miscarriages
November 9, 2023
I’m am wholly broken 😞
This story tore me to shreds and put me back together wonky that I can’t stop thinking about the characters, the missed opportunity and new adventures that turned into their own happiness.
Evie was given a piece of herself back from Jonathan and he did just the same when the time came.
It was beautiful, devastating and so unexpected that I cried the last handful of chapters of the book.
I’m still not a 100% clear on my feelings.. I’m a jumbled mess but did love ever second of it.
You knocked this out the world D!
This story tore me to shreds and put me back together wonky that I can’t stop thinking about the characters, the missed opportunity and new adventures that turned into their own happiness.
Evie was given a piece of herself back from Jonathan and he did just the same when the time came.
It was beautiful, devastating and so unexpected that I cried the last handful of chapters of the book.
I’m still not a 100% clear on my feelings.. I’m a jumbled mess but did love ever second of it.
You knocked this out the world D!
November 4, 2023
I loved it! Another great story, I expect nothing less from this author.
This was such a cute and different read!
I knew it was going to be different and I had an idea in my head, I was close but not quite there. Oooo, can't forget the spicy. There was plenty of that in this cozy novella. 🔥
It's was more than I thought, like a "woah, what just happened?" Not going to lie, it was a bit emotional with the mentioned deaths and the twist was movie like and kind of made me sad but then it turned around and had a HEA for both of the characters and that was pretty nice. 😊
The mention of characters from Where The Flowers Bloom was a good add in and I'm glad we got that and I'm pretty excited for what comes next because this author doesn't disappoint.
This was such a cute and different read!
I knew it was going to be different and I had an idea in my head, I was close but not quite there. Oooo, can't forget the spicy. There was plenty of that in this cozy novella. 🔥
It's was more than I thought, like a "woah, what just happened?" Not going to lie, it was a bit emotional with the mentioned deaths and the twist was movie like and kind of made me sad but then it turned around and had a HEA for both of the characters and that was pretty nice. 😊
The mention of characters from Where The Flowers Bloom was a good add in and I'm glad we got that and I'm pretty excited for what comes next because this author doesn't disappoint.
December 30, 2024
How dare you make me cry christmas tears. I did not expect that twist and i'm happy??????, but i'm also very very sad
November 13, 2023
✅Christmas Miracles
✅Grumpy Sunshine
Evelyns parents always told her no one should be alone at Christmas..so she decides to book a weekend at Sutton Lake. She runs into Jonathan her grumpy neighbour access the lake. After sharing the weekended together they part ways, but when she leaves Evelyn realizes parting ways isn’t what she wanted at all…
All I’m gonna say so that I don’t ruin the story for others is that I don’t agree with how the story ended…I did however enjoy seeing Evelyns growth throughout the story
✅Grumpy Sunshine
Evelyns parents always told her no one should be alone at Christmas..so she decides to book a weekend at Sutton Lake. She runs into Jonathan her grumpy neighbour access the lake. After sharing the weekended together they part ways, but when she leaves Evelyn realizes parting ways isn’t what she wanted at all…
All I’m gonna say so that I don’t ruin the story for others is that I don’t agree with how the story ended…I did however enjoy seeing Evelyns growth throughout the story
October 15, 2023
I cannot wait for you all to read this short and spicy Christmas novella!
December 8, 2023
Oh my gosh this book was literally a rollercoaster of emotions.
I read the warning at the beginning about it being a HEA but not in the way you think.
Evie and Jonathan’s banter was hilarious and I was laughing half the time during their conversations!
**SLIGHT SPOILER AHEAD**
The ending is incredibly bittersweet. What would have happened if Evie saw Jonathan’s note sooner? This question is eating at me, and the what ifs will be the end of me!! I am so happy that Evie found herself and was able to get her own HEA tho!
I read the warning at the beginning about it being a HEA but not in the way you think.
Evie and Jonathan’s banter was hilarious and I was laughing half the time during their conversations!
**SLIGHT SPOILER AHEAD**
The ending is incredibly bittersweet. What would have happened if Evie saw Jonathan’s note sooner? This question is eating at me, and the what ifs will be the end of me!! I am so happy that Evie found herself and was able to get her own HEA tho!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2023
What a Christmas miracle! Peppermint Wishes reminds me of that warm cuddly Hallmark Christmas movie that I love watching every year, but with a little twist of A Christmas Carol.
Evelyn and Jonathan's story is just magical. She goes up to the cabin to stay during Christmas time before she heads to her parent's house, to clean it out and sell it. And Jonathan has lived at his cabin for a while escaping everyone because he still blames himself for a tragic accident and just wants solitude. But in true Christmas fashion, fate brings them together to heal. Evelyn reminds me of a Christmas angel who just spreads love and joy wherever she goes. She may be hurting on the inside, but she won't let others see her pain. And Jonathan really needs her love, even if at first, he doesn't accept it.
Now most books end in a cliffhanger that has you going what the f, but D.L. Darby throws a plot twist like that and I'm still trying to figure it out. But maybe somethings aren't meant to be understood and we just have to accept them as a Christmas miracle. Thank you, D.L. Darby for bringing the Christmas spirit in this amazing novel. It was the perfect read to make me what to get into the Christmas spirit early this year! Also that scene with the peppermint sticks....WOW!
Evelyn and Jonathan's story is just magical. She goes up to the cabin to stay during Christmas time before she heads to her parent's house, to clean it out and sell it. And Jonathan has lived at his cabin for a while escaping everyone because he still blames himself for a tragic accident and just wants solitude. But in true Christmas fashion, fate brings them together to heal. Evelyn reminds me of a Christmas angel who just spreads love and joy wherever she goes. She may be hurting on the inside, but she won't let others see her pain. And Jonathan really needs her love, even if at first, he doesn't accept it.
Now most books end in a cliffhanger that has you going what the f, but D.L. Darby throws a plot twist like that and I'm still trying to figure it out. But maybe somethings aren't meant to be understood and we just have to accept them as a Christmas miracle. Thank you, D.L. Darby for bringing the Christmas spirit in this amazing novel. It was the perfect read to make me what to get into the Christmas spirit early this year! Also that scene with the peppermint sticks....WOW!
January 17, 2025
#Review: *Peppermint wishes* - D.L Darby [18+]
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
The cover of this book definitely made me read it🤭. It's pretty small, so it was a fast read.
Evie, a newly divorce woman, has decided to travel for a bit and during Christmas holidays she ended up in Sutton Lake. There she found a man who was grieving for his family, with whom she felt deeply connected. In Evie's short stop there, she got pretty close to him, sharing some of their dearest and most hurtful feelings and events.
This story had a beautiful love at first sight story, which definitely surprised me with that crazy ending. I really didn't expect that to happen and I'm not going to spoil anything with my review. This book was about second chances and our characters had definitely received one.
A super quick read, with a story under 100 pages, which has impressed me with the way events turned out. It was emotional and, at the same time, full of love and understanding. I have no idea how to feel right now about this story, but I liked it as a whole.
✨Tropes
#StrangersToLovers
#InstaLove
#SecondChance
#StartingOver
#OnTheRoad
#SmallTown
4.5/5✨
3/5🌶️
The cover of this book definitely made me read it🤭. It's pretty small, so it was a fast read.
Evie, a newly divorce woman, has decided to travel for a bit and during Christmas holidays she ended up in Sutton Lake. There she found a man who was grieving for his family, with whom she felt deeply connected. In Evie's short stop there, she got pretty close to him, sharing some of their dearest and most hurtful feelings and events.
This story had a beautiful love at first sight story, which definitely surprised me with that crazy ending. I really didn't expect that to happen and I'm not going to spoil anything with my review. This book was about second chances and our characters had definitely received one.
A super quick read, with a story under 100 pages, which has impressed me with the way events turned out. It was emotional and, at the same time, full of love and understanding. I have no idea how to feel right now about this story, but I liked it as a whole.
✨Tropes
#StrangersToLovers
#InstaLove
#SecondChance
#StartingOver
#OnTheRoad
#SmallTown
December 1, 2023
What just happened? The cover is extremely cute so yay another holiday cutie. *Opens book, sees trigger warnings and authors note* At this point I’m scared but I’ve committed because peppermint and holidays.
I actually really enjoyed this little novella, even though I think it’s adding to my therapy bill? It comes out swinging, hitting you hard in the feels and then keeps you there. I admit it, it made me cry but the whole plot is honestly mind blowing. Multiple times I was muttering “omg wtf” and “no freaking way” to myself. Saw none of that coming or the ending.
I cried, I smiled, I awwwed, I wtfed, I cried again. I loved it. The emotional damage this short little book causes is totally worth it.
I actually really enjoyed this little novella, even though I think it’s adding to my therapy bill? It comes out swinging, hitting you hard in the feels and then keeps you there. I admit it, it made me cry but the whole plot is honestly mind blowing. Multiple times I was muttering “omg wtf” and “no freaking way” to myself. Saw none of that coming or the ending.
I cried, I smiled, I awwwed, I wtfed, I cried again. I loved it. The emotional damage this short little book causes is totally worth it.
December 9, 2025
This was a cute story but there was so much going on. Evelyn the FMC had a very intense backstory with fertility issues, divorce and her parents dying. Then there is Jonathon the MMC who also had a lot going on with a wife and daughter who passed away a few Christmas ago…all of this paired with a Christmas “miracle” that allowed them a weekend together that then turned around to never have happened for anyone but Evelyn was ridiculous. Evelyn was able to save the wife and daughter for Jonathon, but now she doesn’t get to be with the MMC we all fell in love with and are rooting for. Now we are rooting for some random guy in the epilogue?
The epilogue does set up everything for the next book, but nothing gets explained for what happens to Evelyn and Jonathon.
The epilogue does set up everything for the next book, but nothing gets explained for what happens to Evelyn and Jonathon.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 21, 2023
All I can say is WOW. I was a little worried when reading the author note in the beginning about not being a typical HEA but this story was absolutely beautiful in every way. I loved the banter and connection between Evie and Jonathan and loved how one miraculous weekend could mean so much and change peoples lives. I love how this story was told and it kept me on my toes for sure. Beautiful and wonderful story!!
December 3, 2024
Okay. The ending wasn’t what I was expecting at all but I love a good ending that I couldn’t see coming.
This was a cozy short read that’s perfect for the holidays. A beautiful love story about 2 souls who found what they needed over the Christmas weekend.
The spice was good and I loved the banter between Jonathan and Evelyn. The story was short and sweet. Recommend if you’re wanting to kick out December with holiday Love!
This was a cozy short read that’s perfect for the holidays. A beautiful love story about 2 souls who found what they needed over the Christmas weekend.
The spice was good and I loved the banter between Jonathan and Evelyn. The story was short and sweet. Recommend if you’re wanting to kick out December with holiday Love!
December 23, 2025
Peppermint Wishes was a cute, festive little read that delivered exactly what I was in the mood for—a quick Christmas story with cozy vibes. It was light, easy to get through, and perfect for the season. I wasn’t expecting the direction the ending took, which caught me a bit off guard, but overall it still worked for the story. If you’re looking for a short holiday romance to slip in between longer reads, this is a perfectly decent Christmas quickie that’s worth the time.
November 13, 2023
Heartbreakingly good holiday quick read
I didn’t read what this was about and oh my goodness. Not what I expected. What an emotional roll a coaster for Evie. Losing what you thought was your future and then to think you found the one only to find did it happen. So much in this and it had me on a ride.
I didn’t read what this was about and oh my goodness. Not what I expected. What an emotional roll a coaster for Evie. Losing what you thought was your future and then to think you found the one only to find did it happen. So much in this and it had me on a ride.
December 13, 2023
D.L. Darby has done it again with another 5 star read! Talk about a heartwarming Christmas read! The ending was perfection and definitely not what I was expecting. I was heartbroken, but also happy with the outcome. Evelyn is a true hero! Definitely recommend this beautiful, short read!
December 8, 2023
Wow hello 🌶️
Totally was not expecting the ending but cute little Christmas book.
Totally was not expecting the ending but cute little Christmas book.
January 15, 2025
i'm in shock. what on earth just happened? the plot twist is something i absolutely did not expect. my brain is now broken. i'm so invested now.
November 13, 2025
“Peppermint Wishes" by D.L. Darby is a heartwarming, emotional Christmas. The story follows Evelyn, a woman seeking solitude in a cozy cabin, who finds love and connection with her grumpy neighbor Jonathan.
I loved the chemistry between Evelyn and Jonathan! This started out as a 5-star read for me, but the ending left me confused. I thought maybe she imagined it all or had some disorder, but it never really explained why she jumped to the future. It was a nice touch, but it felt like I was reading a whole different book! I was really hoping for a happy ending for Evelyn and Jonathan, and instead it felt like he was just a chapter in her life. I didn't feel the same chemistry between her and Eric. Maybe I just wasn't prepared for the twist, but it didn't quite work for me. 3.5 stars.
I loved the chemistry between Evelyn and Jonathan! This started out as a 5-star read for me, but the ending left me confused. I thought maybe she imagined it all or had some disorder, but it never really explained why she jumped to the future. It was a nice touch, but it felt like I was reading a whole different book! I was really hoping for a happy ending for Evelyn and Jonathan, and instead it felt like he was just a chapter in her life. I didn't feel the same chemistry between her and Eric. Maybe I just wasn't prepared for the twist, but it didn't quite work for me. 3.5 stars.
December 9, 2023
What an absolute cluster f**k. Did I think this would be a predictable hallmark-esque romance? Absolutely. Was it that? Absolutely not. All I have to say is what the hell was that.
November 23, 2023
This is not like a Hallmark movies kind of Christmas novella it’s more like a spicy Passionflix Christmas short.
While there is plenty of spice the story is was gets you. Sometimes in life things just are not perfect and they fall apart in the hardest of ways and you just need a moment to not be 💯 ok and accepted.
While there is plenty of spice the story is was gets you. Sometimes in life things just are not perfect and they fall apart in the hardest of ways and you just need a moment to not be 💯 ok and accepted.
January 17, 2025
Absolutely loved this book. I loved how it didn’t feel rushed. I loved the VERY unexpected twist. I even loved the ending. It’s so lovely how things just sometimes just work out and happen just the way they are supposed to.
December 20, 2023
I’m conflicted with this book. I really enjoyed this book.. Johnathon & Evie had such good chemistry. And then she ended up with Eric.. and it was so short and they didn’t even spend anytime together besides one day. I just feel like Johnathon & Evie were a better match. Wish it had a better ending!!!
❄️🎄
❄️🎄
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 17, 2025
Wow! What to say about this book.A weekend at Sutton Lake is in order ,chase those winter blues away is the order of business for Evelyn Montgomery. Here’s where she meets a gorgeous but grumpy neighbour ,you might call rather ornery. His name is Jonathan and what a grump! A sour faced chump. But you see how the miracle of Christmas works? Things happen even to jerks…They happen to have had a jolly time together over the weekend. What a pity it had to end . They part ways but Evelyn sees just how it will be and it isn’t what she wants , no siree!.So she hightailed it back to town where here she was met with frowns . Not one of them recall her or him? Well she knew her chance of finding him were slim but it seems that maybe it was just a dream . A supreme one for sure those Peppermint wishes she felt so certain were real ,she sure remembers the feel good moments the precious memory of a man so kind,even if she was losing her mind. It gave her solace when she needed it most. Those memories and ghosts of her tragic past and showed her ,life was for living at last…The candy cane was she insane. Well she doesn’t want it any other way ,she won’t be dismayed this way but recall. “ “Are we spending the rest of the weekend together, Jonathan?” “Is that okay?” “I don’t want to be alone this weekend. And I don't think you do either. For whatever reason, we were drawn together yesterday. And this past day is the most alive I’ve felt in a while.” See what I mean? Real feels. “I’m clean, and I can’t have kids if that’s what you’re worried about. But I swear to God, Jonathan, if you don’t touch me, I’m going to die,” “So fucking wet, Evelyn. Tell me, were you this wet on the hike? Did you walk through the forest with a mess between your legs?” “I’m clean too. It’s been…a long time since I’ve been with anyone” “Mmm. Peppermint dreams,” Jonathan murmurs against my lips. “Peppermint dreams?” “You smell like peppermint, taste like peppermint–no matter what you eat or drink. I will forever associate peppermint with you,” “Mmm. More like peppermint wishes. I’ve been thinking about this since you dropped me off last night and brought wood inside for me.”Her weekend free for all. Lucky lady! No if bits or maybes,just right on,with the tease and striptease…. Very well written story and awesome storytelling too. Bravo to you dear D.L. Darby for giving us an awesome Christmas gift.
January 11, 2025
This little novella had me from the dedication all the way to the very last page! I did NOT want to put this book down.
Full transparency, I received the second book in this series Starry Night Kisses as an ARC and was also sent the first one so I could catch up!
Dedication ✨👇🏻
For everyone who believes in unexplainable miracles…
…and second chances.
This book had me highlighting quotes/sections of the book from the very beginning! ✨ I was INVESTED!
Some of the notes I took in my highlighted sections:
WOW. What a way to start a book!!!
YES GIRL
Bringing tears to my eyes and I literally just started reading…
This was my first time ever reading a D.L. Darby book and I was thoroughly impressed. I can’t tell you how excited I am to dive into the ARC I received as well as read more of her books.
Peppermint Wishes is MAGICAL. ✨ I thought it was unique and fun! 🤩 I read it in the middle of January, but it’s the PERFECT holiday read. I may just need to reread it next Christmas because I had so much fun with it!
At face value, it’s a short little Christmas novella with a hint of spice - but it’s really SO much more than that!! Our characters were there for each other when they needed it most and there was a TRUE Christmas Miracle in this book! It was sweet while also being heartbreaking. It was a TWIST that I did NOT see coming and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It made me DEVOUR the last several chapters of the book to know what happens!
I loved this book! Well done, D.L. Darby!! I look forward to reading more of your work!! 😊✨📚
Full transparency, I received the second book in this series Starry Night Kisses as an ARC and was also sent the first one so I could catch up!
Dedication ✨👇🏻
For everyone who believes in unexplainable miracles…
…and second chances.
This book had me highlighting quotes/sections of the book from the very beginning! ✨ I was INVESTED!
Some of the notes I took in my highlighted sections:
WOW. What a way to start a book!!!
YES GIRL
Bringing tears to my eyes and I literally just started reading…
This was my first time ever reading a D.L. Darby book and I was thoroughly impressed. I can’t tell you how excited I am to dive into the ARC I received as well as read more of her books.
Peppermint Wishes is MAGICAL. ✨ I thought it was unique and fun! 🤩 I read it in the middle of January, but it’s the PERFECT holiday read. I may just need to reread it next Christmas because I had so much fun with it!
At face value, it’s a short little Christmas novella with a hint of spice - but it’s really SO much more than that!! Our characters were there for each other when they needed it most and there was a TRUE Christmas Miracle in this book! It was sweet while also being heartbreaking. It was a TWIST that I did NOT see coming and I thoroughly enjoyed it! It made me DEVOUR the last several chapters of the book to know what happens!
I loved this book! Well done, D.L. Darby!! I look forward to reading more of your work!! 😊✨📚
January 9, 2025
✨ ARC Review✨
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Evelyn, freshly divorced and hoping for a quiet, solo Christmas in a cozy cabin, isn’t expecting much more than some wine and peace. But of course, fate has other plans when she meets Jonathan, her grumpy but undeniably attractive neighbor across the lake. From the moment they meet, there's serious chemistry, and what starts as a cold, solitary Christmas quickly turns into a steamy, unexpected weekend together.
Just when things seem like they're headed for the perfect holiday romance, Jonathan pulls a Houdini and vanishes the next morning, leaving no trace of ever being there. Cue the plot twist of the century! 😱 I won't spoil it, but this novella took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I was laughing, crying, and muttering "What the heck?!" more times than I can count. It’s one of those books that completely blindsides you, and by the end, you're not sure whether to smile through the tears or scream at the twist.
What I loved most is that it’s not your typical Christmas romance. It starts off as this cute, spicy holiday fling, but then turns into a beautiful reminder that some people are meant to come into your life for just a brief moment, but they leave a lasting impact. The ending? Totally unexpected, yet somehow perfect. It's heartwarming, heartbreaking, and gives you all the feels.
And just when you think it’s over, the epilogue introduces Eric, and let me tell you—I am so ready to see where that story goes next! If you’re looking for a quick, emotional read that’ll leave you thinking long after you finish, this one’s for you. Grab the tissues though, because you’ll definitely need them. 💔🎄
Rate: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Evelyn, freshly divorced and hoping for a quiet, solo Christmas in a cozy cabin, isn’t expecting much more than some wine and peace. But of course, fate has other plans when she meets Jonathan, her grumpy but undeniably attractive neighbor across the lake. From the moment they meet, there's serious chemistry, and what starts as a cold, solitary Christmas quickly turns into a steamy, unexpected weekend together.
Just when things seem like they're headed for the perfect holiday romance, Jonathan pulls a Houdini and vanishes the next morning, leaving no trace of ever being there. Cue the plot twist of the century! 😱 I won't spoil it, but this novella took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I was laughing, crying, and muttering "What the heck?!" more times than I can count. It’s one of those books that completely blindsides you, and by the end, you're not sure whether to smile through the tears or scream at the twist.
What I loved most is that it’s not your typical Christmas romance. It starts off as this cute, spicy holiday fling, but then turns into a beautiful reminder that some people are meant to come into your life for just a brief moment, but they leave a lasting impact. The ending? Totally unexpected, yet somehow perfect. It's heartwarming, heartbreaking, and gives you all the feels.
And just when you think it’s over, the epilogue introduces Eric, and let me tell you—I am so ready to see where that story goes next! If you’re looking for a quick, emotional read that’ll leave you thinking long after you finish, this one’s for you. Grab the tissues though, because you’ll definitely need them. 💔🎄
January 19, 2025
As her divorce finalizes and her soon-to-be ex-husband moves his secretary into their home, Evelyn moves out with plans to clean out and sell her late parents' home before traveling the world. Staying in a cabin for Christmas is the refresh she needs, and she finds herself befriending the grouchy neighbor across the lake. Jonathan is also alone this holiday, and despite his grouchy demeanor, Evelyn worms her way into his life. When he disappears the morning after Christmas, Evelyn looks for him at his home and in town, only to find new people living there, and no one seems to remember either of them. Did she imagine the whole weekend? Determined to make the best of this life changing experience, Evelyn goes through with her plans with a new mindset and outlook. What she finds next changes the outcourse of more than one life.
Ghost of Christmas future vibes right here. Evelyn is a ray of sunshine, despite the world trying to knock her down. Jonathan is a very grumpy guy, but he has a good reason. Together, these two tackle Christmas with only minor speed bumps. That ending had me shook, though. How did we pull a "back to the future" move? Regardless of the circumstances, Evelyn got her holiday to heal and was able to go on her trip with a new outlook and fresh bandage over her heart. Although this isn’t your typical happily ever after, it very well could turn into one with the next story!
Ghost of Christmas future vibes right here. Evelyn is a ray of sunshine, despite the world trying to knock her down. Jonathan is a very grumpy guy, but he has a good reason. Together, these two tackle Christmas with only minor speed bumps. That ending had me shook, though. How did we pull a "back to the future" move? Regardless of the circumstances, Evelyn got her holiday to heal and was able to go on her trip with a new outlook and fresh bandage over her heart. Although this isn’t your typical happily ever after, it very well could turn into one with the next story!
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