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Holiday Village Romances #2
The Peppermint Problem: A Christmas Romance Novella
Gretchen Nightshade has three big problems.
First, her twin sister is crazy about her new vampire boyfriend and keeps leaving Gretchen on her own to mind the shop. Second, because of this, she’s completely behind on her candy orders and if she can’t fill them she’ll never be able to afford her own shop. But last and biggest of she’s in love with her childhood best friend who just sees her as another little sister. What’s a witch to do?
Nick Kringle is the fifth of his name and is drowning under his father’s expectations.
The only relief he gets is when he sneaks off to hang out with his best friend and taste her amazing sweets. When the Christmas Neighborhood’s main candy chef quits just days before Christmas, Nick knows there’s only one person he can count on to bail him out and save the holiday.
But when pushback happens against a Halloween witch taking charge of the candy kitchens, Nick impulsively announces their engagement to smooth things over and protect Gretchen with the Kringle name. They can always just end the fake engagement when Christmas is over, right?
But what happens when a kiss changes everything? Can they save Christmas and admit their feelings? It may take a Christmas miracle.
First, her twin sister is crazy about her new vampire boyfriend and keeps leaving Gretchen on her own to mind the shop. Second, because of this, she’s completely behind on her candy orders and if she can’t fill them she’ll never be able to afford her own shop. But last and biggest of she’s in love with her childhood best friend who just sees her as another little sister. What’s a witch to do?
Nick Kringle is the fifth of his name and is drowning under his father’s expectations.
The only relief he gets is when he sneaks off to hang out with his best friend and taste her amazing sweets. When the Christmas Neighborhood’s main candy chef quits just days before Christmas, Nick knows there’s only one person he can count on to bail him out and save the holiday.
But when pushback happens against a Halloween witch taking charge of the candy kitchens, Nick impulsively announces their engagement to smooth things over and protect Gretchen with the Kringle name. They can always just end the fake engagement when Christmas is over, right?
But what happens when a kiss changes everything? Can they save Christmas and admit their feelings? It may take a Christmas miracle.
196 pages, Paperback
Published November 30, 2024
16 people are currently reading
94 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 115 reviews
December 24, 2024
4.5 stars rounded up!
This short holiday romance was exactly what I was needing as I was winding down my holiday reading. I love the idea of the Holiday Village and it was fun to see a different holiday with this one. Things moved pretty quickly but that’s expected in a shorter book. Gretchen and Nick will be hard to top, but I’m excited for the next one in the series!
This short holiday romance was exactly what I was needing as I was winding down my holiday reading. I love the idea of the Holiday Village and it was fun to see a different holiday with this one. Things moved pretty quickly but that’s expected in a shorter book. Gretchen and Nick will be hard to top, but I’m excited for the next one in the series!
December 16, 2024
While the beginning felt slightly rushed to me (let that be blamed on the novella of it all), the romance really sealed the five-star rating for me.
Was the first book that spicy? Seriously. That Nick needs to watch his mouth. Yeesh. 😂
Overall a fantastic Christmas themed romance. Short and sweet!!
Was the first book that spicy? Seriously. That Nick needs to watch his mouth. Yeesh. 😂
Overall a fantastic Christmas themed romance. Short and sweet!!
November 25, 2024
Loved this book!!
The Peppermint Problem is book 2 in the Holiday Village Romance series, and this second installment was just as wonderful as the first!
In this book we get to visit the Christmas neighborhood, where they are in a bit of pinch as their head candy maker has quit mere days before Christmas. Luckily, Nick Jr’s. Best friend Gretchen Nightshade is a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood. Unfortunately, while Gretchen is willing to assist, Big Nick, aka Santa Claus, is not so excited to have someone from the Halloween neighborhood in his factory….to force not only Santa Claus, but some of the other factory elves to accept Gretchen’s help, Nick announces that him and Gretchen are engaged! This is quite the surprise to Gretchen considering they were not even dating.
Gretchen has of course had a crush on Nick since grade school, and this unexpected fake engagement causes a forced proximity that awakens desire in Nick that he had no idea was there.
I Love this story, and the world that the author has created in the Holiday village. I really enjoy reading about the different characters in the Christmas neighborhood, including a cafe owning yeti. This is one of the coziest Christmas romances, but there is also a decent amount of spice! The author writes these books in such a wonderful way that just makes you hope that there will be many, many more to come in the series.
I highly recommend this story if you love a spicy, cozy Christmas romance, in an adorable fantasy world with many love able characters.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for a review copy of this book!! I look forward to the next installment!
The Peppermint Problem is book 2 in the Holiday Village Romance series, and this second installment was just as wonderful as the first!
In this book we get to visit the Christmas neighborhood, where they are in a bit of pinch as their head candy maker has quit mere days before Christmas. Luckily, Nick Jr’s. Best friend Gretchen Nightshade is a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood. Unfortunately, while Gretchen is willing to assist, Big Nick, aka Santa Claus, is not so excited to have someone from the Halloween neighborhood in his factory….to force not only Santa Claus, but some of the other factory elves to accept Gretchen’s help, Nick announces that him and Gretchen are engaged! This is quite the surprise to Gretchen considering they were not even dating.
Gretchen has of course had a crush on Nick since grade school, and this unexpected fake engagement causes a forced proximity that awakens desire in Nick that he had no idea was there.
I Love this story, and the world that the author has created in the Holiday village. I really enjoy reading about the different characters in the Christmas neighborhood, including a cafe owning yeti. This is one of the coziest Christmas romances, but there is also a decent amount of spice! The author writes these books in such a wonderful way that just makes you hope that there will be many, many more to come in the series.
I highly recommend this story if you love a spicy, cozy Christmas romance, in an adorable fantasy world with many love able characters.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for a review copy of this book!! I look forward to the next installment!
December 11, 2024
Nick is in a bind with the head confectionary of Santa's candy workshop quitting a few days before Christmas. He enlists his best friend Gretchen, a Halloween candy witch, to help out. Unfortunately, Santa won't hear of anyone not within the Kringle dynasty running the show, so Nick impulsively announces their engagement. This is news to Gretchen, but she's willing to carry the lie to help save Christmas, while trying to keep her true feelings at bay.
*****
This started out as a cute and interesting read, but took a steep dive very fast. The writing had a juvenile voice that left Nick feeling young, childish, and naive. That did not transfer well to intimate scenes as not only were the scenes described awkwardly, but picturing a joyful Christmas elf with an erection just killed off anything spicy. I was grimacing and trying to speed read through the awkward dialogue and actions, which dampened the interest in the novel immensely.
From there, we don't actually see much interaction between the leads. Yet we're supposed to be invested in their relationship, life choices, and how they handle their engagement, all while constantly working. I had no buy-in into the characters themselves and was less than enthused with the relationship decision at the end of the novel. This didn't feel like the cutesy and interesting read I was expecting, it felt like a jumble of forced interactions with characters we barely know, to advance a very basic plot.
I'm actually surprised it has such high reviews as I struggled to finish this one.
*****
Thank you, BookSirens, and the author for this digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
*****
This started out as a cute and interesting read, but took a steep dive very fast. The writing had a juvenile voice that left Nick feeling young, childish, and naive. That did not transfer well to intimate scenes as not only were the scenes described awkwardly, but picturing a joyful Christmas elf with an erection just killed off anything spicy. I was grimacing and trying to speed read through the awkward dialogue and actions, which dampened the interest in the novel immensely.
From there, we don't actually see much interaction between the leads. Yet we're supposed to be invested in their relationship, life choices, and how they handle their engagement, all while constantly working. I had no buy-in into the characters themselves and was less than enthused with the relationship decision at the end of the novel. This didn't feel like the cutesy and interesting read I was expecting, it felt like a jumble of forced interactions with characters we barely know, to advance a very basic plot.
I'm actually surprised it has such high reviews as I struggled to finish this one.
*****
Thank you, BookSirens, and the author for this digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
December 22, 2024
ARC Review ✨️
☆Gretchen & Nick♡
Gretchen has 3 problems. One, her sister keeps leaving her on her own to tend to the shop because she's obsessed with her new vampire boyfriend. Second, she's way behind on candy orders, and if she can't fill them, she'll sadly never own her own shop. The third and final problem is that she has had the biggest crush on her childhood best friend, and he sees her as just his little sister. Nick is drowning under his father's name, and the only peace he gets is when he sneaks off to hang with his best friend and eat her candy. He finds out the main candy chef quit just days before Christmas, so he steps in to try and save the holiday. The only problem is now there's a commotion around a witch running the candy kitchen. So Nick impulsively announces that him and Gretchen are engaged.
This was such a great read. The characters fascinated me! I loved how divided they were. You got a witch, yeti, vampire, and more! Absolutely couldn't flip through the pages fast enough! The spice and the holiday town were the best!
Thanks so much to the author and Booksirens for the ARC!
☆Gretchen & Nick♡
Gretchen has 3 problems. One, her sister keeps leaving her on her own to tend to the shop because she's obsessed with her new vampire boyfriend. Second, she's way behind on candy orders, and if she can't fill them, she'll sadly never own her own shop. The third and final problem is that she has had the biggest crush on her childhood best friend, and he sees her as just his little sister. Nick is drowning under his father's name, and the only peace he gets is when he sneaks off to hang with his best friend and eat her candy. He finds out the main candy chef quit just days before Christmas, so he steps in to try and save the holiday. The only problem is now there's a commotion around a witch running the candy kitchen. So Nick impulsively announces that him and Gretchen are engaged.
This was such a great read. The characters fascinated me! I loved how divided they were. You got a witch, yeti, vampire, and more! Absolutely couldn't flip through the pages fast enough! The spice and the holiday town were the best!
Thanks so much to the author and Booksirens for the ARC!
November 18, 2024
This was a great quick holiday read! I loved the concept of different neighborhoods being the different holidays. The plot kept my attention there was just the right amount of spice and the in-law angst was compelling but not overdone. This was a well written kick your feet fun holiday romance. received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 25, 2024
I thoroughly enjoyed reading the peppermint problem. A nice whimsical holiday romance to get you in the festive spirit. It has aweness vibes all over it and a dual pov so you can gush over the MMC inner monologue and realising and rationalising his feelings. I'm really looking forward to the next installment of the Holiday Village Series
December 20, 2024
This is a well written book with strong characters and an enjoyable storyline. The author brings a friends to lovers romance taking place at Christmas time. It's a cute and steamy story, moves quickly and smoothly and is an entertaining read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
November 19, 2024
This was such a cute hallmark movie Christmas novel. I enjoyed the tough topic of blending the holiday communities and not one holiday is more important, definitely an underline message here and I love it. And the tension was good and the spice was very sweet no pun intended.
November 20, 2024
3.75🌟
Having a Halloween witch work with Christmas elves is adorable.😍 The novella was a friends-to-lovers story that did a good job of navigating the worries and exhilaration that comes with the territory. It was a sweet, cozy tale, and the author keeps getting better.♥️
Having a Halloween witch work with Christmas elves is adorable.😍 The novella was a friends-to-lovers story that did a good job of navigating the worries and exhilaration that comes with the territory. It was a sweet, cozy tale, and the author keeps getting better.♥️
November 20, 2024
This little book was completely heartwarming and had all the same feels as a hallmark Christmas romcom. It was adorable and so sweet. The perfect cozy read for the winter.
And I can't wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily because I truly enjoyed it.
And I can't wait for book 3!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily because I truly enjoyed it.
December 26, 2024
This book was so much more than a holiday novella. It discussed inherent micro aggressions within this magical society, and prejudices seen between different views of life. And while some aspects of this story were absolutely cute, and magical, the overall message was incredibly complicated. Such a great holiday read this was an
ARC review
ARC review
November 30, 2024
5 🌟
2 🌶️
Let me start by saying, if you haven't read book 1, do yourself a favor and read that NOW! I love the Holiday Village concept and how there are different characters in each neighborhood. This was the perfect Christmas novella with the right amount of tension and spice. If you love the story of an underdog and an FMC that just continues to get stronger and advocate for herself, give this a read!
2 🌶️
Let me start by saying, if you haven't read book 1, do yourself a favor and read that NOW! I love the Holiday Village concept and how there are different characters in each neighborhood. This was the perfect Christmas novella with the right amount of tension and spice. If you love the story of an underdog and an FMC that just continues to get stronger and advocate for herself, give this a read!
November 22, 2024
I absolutely love these Holiday Village Romances. The spirit of Christmas is alive in this cozy paranormal romance with friends to lovers and fake dating tropes.
Gretchen Nightshade is a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood. She hopes to one day own a shop of her own, where she can create and experiment with new candy flavors. Her best friend, Nick, is a Christmas elf—but not just any Christmas elf; he is the heir to Christmas. Nick's dad, Santa Claus, has gotten into a dispute with his head confectioner, leading to a disruption in the production of candy. With only a few days until Christmas Eve, Gretchen agrees to take the head confectioner position. Santa Claus and the other Christmas elves don't warmly welcome Gretchen's help due to old traditions. Assuming it will ease tension, Nick decides to fake an engagement between himself and Gretchen.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Peppermint Problem picks up exactly where The Heartbreak Hex ended. However, it can be read as a standalone.
I love Gretchen. She is the sweetest introvert. To me, she embodies the charity in the Christmas spirit. She would rather not take on such a big responsibility, but she agrees to help Nick save Christmas for the human children. She also embodies the forgiveness in the Christmas spirit. Regardless of how Santa Claus and the other Christmas elves act toward her, she gracefully forgives them. I really loved Nick as well. He is more extroverted and an effortless flirt. He was so naive to the fact that Gretchen was crushing on him since forever. He was adorably conflicted when his feelings towards Gretchen started to change.
My favorite part in the novella was during dinner with Nick's family. Nick's mom was so genuinely happy about the engagement. I felt like she knew that it was only a matter of time before they got together. She knew before Nick even knew his true feelings for Gretchen. It was giving me all the feels!
christmas • cozy fantasy • cozy romance • dual pov • elf • fake dating • friends to lovers • novella • one bed • paranormal romance • romantasy • witches
Gretchen Nightshade is a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood. She hopes to one day own a shop of her own, where she can create and experiment with new candy flavors. Her best friend, Nick, is a Christmas elf—but not just any Christmas elf; he is the heir to Christmas. Nick's dad, Santa Claus, has gotten into a dispute with his head confectioner, leading to a disruption in the production of candy. With only a few days until Christmas Eve, Gretchen agrees to take the head confectioner position. Santa Claus and the other Christmas elves don't warmly welcome Gretchen's help due to old traditions. Assuming it will ease tension, Nick decides to fake an engagement between himself and Gretchen.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The Peppermint Problem picks up exactly where The Heartbreak Hex ended. However, it can be read as a standalone.
I love Gretchen. She is the sweetest introvert. To me, she embodies the charity in the Christmas spirit. She would rather not take on such a big responsibility, but she agrees to help Nick save Christmas for the human children. She also embodies the forgiveness in the Christmas spirit. Regardless of how Santa Claus and the other Christmas elves act toward her, she gracefully forgives them. I really loved Nick as well. He is more extroverted and an effortless flirt. He was so naive to the fact that Gretchen was crushing on him since forever. He was adorably conflicted when his feelings towards Gretchen started to change.
My favorite part in the novella was during dinner with Nick's family. Nick's mom was so genuinely happy about the engagement. I felt like she knew that it was only a matter of time before they got together. She knew before Nick even knew his true feelings for Gretchen. It was giving me all the feels!
christmas • cozy fantasy • cozy romance • dual pov • elf • fake dating • friends to lovers • novella • one bed • paranormal romance • romantasy • witches
November 20, 2024
General: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦
✨✨✨ The Peppermint Problem by Jordyn Alexander (@authorjordyn) is the second book of her new series Holliday Village Romance.
➡️ The book will be released on November 30th.
Tropes:
🧙🏻♀️ Witch
🎅🏼 Saving Christmas
🧙🏻♀️ Fake engagement
🎅🏼 Mistletoe kiss
🧙🏻♀️ Friends to lovers
🎅🏼 One bed
🧙🏻♀️ Forced proximity
Jordyn, I absolutely adore your new series! It's the perfect escape, whether you're overwhelmed with worldly problems or just in need of a mood lift. The story is both sweet and profound, centering on Gretchen, a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood, and her best friend Kris, the heir to the Kringle Dynasty, also known as Santa Claus.
The narrative is filled with delightful details, like their college course on Christmas Tree Studies and the enchanting creatures such as bunnies and Yetis. Moreover, the story offers a hopeful message about how disapproving parents might eventually recognize their mistakes and understand how they've pushed their children away.
If you're looking for an easy, enjoyable read with a guaranteed happily-ever-after, don't hesitate—preorder this book now!
Quotes:
I’m just blown away. I’ve never felt that much chemistry in a simple kiss before. And it was with Gretchen? Good-old, one-of-the-boys Gretchen? My best friend? I feel like I’ve opened a door now that can’t be closed.
“Fųçk it,” he says, his voice low and stoking embers of lust in my belly. “No thinking?”
“You taste like your candy,” I tell her between licks.
Gifts are powerful symbols of love and friendship and the right gift can even bring peace between two opposed parties.
#indieauthor #booklover #bookgirl #books #reader #spicybooks #newbooks #booktok #indieauthorsofig #bookrec #selfpublishingauthors #romanceauthor #bookclub #christmas #friendstolovers #witchromance #fantasyromance #theshadyivy
Spice: 🫦🫦🫦
✨✨✨ The Peppermint Problem by Jordyn Alexander (@authorjordyn) is the second book of her new series Holliday Village Romance.
➡️ The book will be released on November 30th.
Tropes:
🧙🏻♀️ Witch
🎅🏼 Saving Christmas
🧙🏻♀️ Fake engagement
🎅🏼 Mistletoe kiss
🧙🏻♀️ Friends to lovers
🎅🏼 One bed
🧙🏻♀️ Forced proximity
Jordyn, I absolutely adore your new series! It's the perfect escape, whether you're overwhelmed with worldly problems or just in need of a mood lift. The story is both sweet and profound, centering on Gretchen, a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood, and her best friend Kris, the heir to the Kringle Dynasty, also known as Santa Claus.
The narrative is filled with delightful details, like their college course on Christmas Tree Studies and the enchanting creatures such as bunnies and Yetis. Moreover, the story offers a hopeful message about how disapproving parents might eventually recognize their mistakes and understand how they've pushed their children away.
If you're looking for an easy, enjoyable read with a guaranteed happily-ever-after, don't hesitate—preorder this book now!
Quotes:
I’m just blown away. I’ve never felt that much chemistry in a simple kiss before. And it was with Gretchen? Good-old, one-of-the-boys Gretchen? My best friend? I feel like I’ve opened a door now that can’t be closed.
“Fųçk it,” he says, his voice low and stoking embers of lust in my belly. “No thinking?”
“You taste like your candy,” I tell her between licks.
Gifts are powerful symbols of love and friendship and the right gift can even bring peace between two opposed parties.
#indieauthor #booklover #bookgirl #books #reader #spicybooks #newbooks #booktok #indieauthorsofig #bookrec #selfpublishingauthors #romanceauthor #bookclub #christmas #friendstolovers #witchromance #fantasyromance #theshadyivy
November 15, 2024
This was one of the most adorable holiday novellas I've ever read!
Gretchen is a Halloween candy witch who is asked to help save Christmas but Nick her best friend and the heir to the role of Santa. The head Christmas candy maker has quit and Nick needs Gretchen's help to get all the candy made in time for the holiday fours days away. But the Christmas neighbourhood has some reservations about a Halloween witch, so cue a fake engagement? After all they're best friends so surely they'll be able to just pretend, right?
Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and it's done so well here. I loved watching the way their relationship developed, and I alternated between kicking my feet in enjoyment and yelling, "just admit you love each other" the whole time I was reading. I love the way they stand up for each other and complement each other so well. And their friendship just makes the spicy times that much hotter. Who doesn't love the anticipation of waiting for two friends to realise they'll be so good together? The spicy scenes were just perfect for the story.
The whole concept of sweet and spicy holiday novellas set in a holiday village full of magic and awesome characters makes for perfect books to cosy up to. I have been looking forward to this one since I read the Halloween book, and it did not disappoint. This series is perfect for a quick escape from reality into a wonderful world of sugar and spice that will leave your heart feeling full at the end!
Gretchen is a Halloween candy witch who is asked to help save Christmas but Nick her best friend and the heir to the role of Santa. The head Christmas candy maker has quit and Nick needs Gretchen's help to get all the candy made in time for the holiday fours days away. But the Christmas neighbourhood has some reservations about a Halloween witch, so cue a fake engagement? After all they're best friends so surely they'll be able to just pretend, right?
Friends to lovers is one of my favourite tropes and it's done so well here. I loved watching the way their relationship developed, and I alternated between kicking my feet in enjoyment and yelling, "just admit you love each other" the whole time I was reading. I love the way they stand up for each other and complement each other so well. And their friendship just makes the spicy times that much hotter. Who doesn't love the anticipation of waiting for two friends to realise they'll be so good together? The spicy scenes were just perfect for the story.
The whole concept of sweet and spicy holiday novellas set in a holiday village full of magic and awesome characters makes for perfect books to cosy up to. I have been looking forward to this one since I read the Halloween book, and it did not disappoint. This series is perfect for a quick escape from reality into a wonderful world of sugar and spice that will leave your heart feeling full at the end!
November 23, 2024
CW: parental disapproval of partner, spice.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for the digital ARC! “The Peppermint Problem” releases November 30, 2024!
Hallmark movie meets cozy fantasy, with a dash of spice.
Halloween witch Gretchen wants two things: her own candy store, and for her best friend to finally notice that she’s been in love with him for years. When said best friend, heir to the Kringle dynasty, begs for her help to save Christmas, Gretchen reluctantly agrees. What happens under the mistletoe, though, may not stay there.
It’s short, it’s sweet (pun fully intended), and it’s perfectly cozy. This was a delightful little romance novella to kick off the Christmas season (give or take a few days). Given the length, there’s not really a lot of deep diving into the inner workings of the characters, but we get a small glimpse into who they are and how they handle conflict. The dynamic is very cute, with an obviously strong base given that the MCs are already close friends.
The conflict resolution feels a bit rushed, but again this is a very short book and it leans hard into the cozy novella classification. If you’re just looking for something where everything gets worked out and the MCs can do their thing, this works well. While this is technically book 2 in the “Holiday Village Romances” series, it does fine as a standalone. I’d like to go back and read book 1 as I think it would be just as cute, but it’s not required to enjoy this story.
Prep some sweet snacks and fluffy socks for this one’s folk; it’s giving major Christmas cozy vibes.
Thank you to the author and Book Sirens for the digital ARC! “The Peppermint Problem” releases November 30, 2024!
Hallmark movie meets cozy fantasy, with a dash of spice.
Halloween witch Gretchen wants two things: her own candy store, and for her best friend to finally notice that she’s been in love with him for years. When said best friend, heir to the Kringle dynasty, begs for her help to save Christmas, Gretchen reluctantly agrees. What happens under the mistletoe, though, may not stay there.
It’s short, it’s sweet (pun fully intended), and it’s perfectly cozy. This was a delightful little romance novella to kick off the Christmas season (give or take a few days). Given the length, there’s not really a lot of deep diving into the inner workings of the characters, but we get a small glimpse into who they are and how they handle conflict. The dynamic is very cute, with an obviously strong base given that the MCs are already close friends.
The conflict resolution feels a bit rushed, but again this is a very short book and it leans hard into the cozy novella classification. If you’re just looking for something where everything gets worked out and the MCs can do their thing, this works well. While this is technically book 2 in the “Holiday Village Romances” series, it does fine as a standalone. I’d like to go back and read book 1 as I think it would be just as cute, but it’s not required to enjoy this story.
Prep some sweet snacks and fluffy socks for this one’s folk; it’s giving major Christmas cozy vibes.
November 15, 2024
I received an ARC (after requesting to be an early reader because the synopsis sounded right up my alley, and I was beyond ready to jump into a little holiday reading!)
TLDR: perfection. A lil steam, a lotta sweetness, a little family drama that resolved beautifully - and the perfect development of the friends-to-HEA trope!
This is the kind of book that makes you want to kick your feet the whole time in delight! Nick’s love for his bestie *isnt* romantic at first. He genuinely respects her for her.
It’s set in a village with holiday neighborhoods similar to Nightmare before Christmas - our heroine, Gretchen, is from the Halloween neighborhood and our hero’s from the Christmas neighborhood. There’s a bit of “star crossed lovers” type theming because they’re from different neighborhoods/holidays, but they’ve been friends their whole lives, so any of the “different side of the train tracks” stuff is all external.
Thankfully a fateful kiss under some mistletoe (sprouted by a mischievous sister) gives Nick the shove he needed to see Gretchen as something *more* than a best friend.
From there, there’s adorable romance, and saving Christmas, and old cantankerous men who have to grow the heck up, plus a few steamy moments that’ll warm ya up!
It’s fluffy and way-too-short, and great from start to finish. Loved it!
TLDR: perfection. A lil steam, a lotta sweetness, a little family drama that resolved beautifully - and the perfect development of the friends-to-HEA trope!
This is the kind of book that makes you want to kick your feet the whole time in delight! Nick’s love for his bestie *isnt* romantic at first. He genuinely respects her for her.
It’s set in a village with holiday neighborhoods similar to Nightmare before Christmas - our heroine, Gretchen, is from the Halloween neighborhood and our hero’s from the Christmas neighborhood. There’s a bit of “star crossed lovers” type theming because they’re from different neighborhoods/holidays, but they’ve been friends their whole lives, so any of the “different side of the train tracks” stuff is all external.
Thankfully a fateful kiss under some mistletoe (sprouted by a mischievous sister) gives Nick the shove he needed to see Gretchen as something *more* than a best friend.
From there, there’s adorable romance, and saving Christmas, and old cantankerous men who have to grow the heck up, plus a few steamy moments that’ll warm ya up!
It’s fluffy and way-too-short, and great from start to finish. Loved it!
November 22, 2024
I absolutely adored the first book in this series, The Heartbreak Hex, so when I saw this one was available I jumped on it!
The Peppermint Problem follows Gretchen as she works with her best friend Nick - as in Santa's heir - to save Christmas. The plot was a bit cheesy, but that worked for me as a Christmas novella. It was a quick, feel good read that encourages readers to take risks in love and life so we don't miss out on the possibility of greatness.
While the premise was fun and I really enjoyed Gretchen, I felt a bit confused by Nick. He went from 0 interest to all in within a matter of seconds. It would have worked better for me if he'd at least considered Gretchen physically before, but as written I didn't find it terribly believable. At least for how quickly it moved once he did realize she could be more than a friend.
Once they were in a relationship, they were very sweet (and spicy!) together. I love friends-to-lovers because I believe your forever person should also be your best friend.
I will 100% be reading book 3 about the twins' older sister Beatrix when it comes out. I think the world Jordyn Alexander has created is a really fun one to romp around in and I look forward to returning.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
The Peppermint Problem follows Gretchen as she works with her best friend Nick - as in Santa's heir - to save Christmas. The plot was a bit cheesy, but that worked for me as a Christmas novella. It was a quick, feel good read that encourages readers to take risks in love and life so we don't miss out on the possibility of greatness.
While the premise was fun and I really enjoyed Gretchen, I felt a bit confused by Nick. He went from 0 interest to all in within a matter of seconds. It would have worked better for me if he'd at least considered Gretchen physically before, but as written I didn't find it terribly believable. At least for how quickly it moved once he did realize she could be more than a friend.
Once they were in a relationship, they were very sweet (and spicy!) together. I love friends-to-lovers because I believe your forever person should also be your best friend.
I will 100% be reading book 3 about the twins' older sister Beatrix when it comes out. I think the world Jordyn Alexander has created is a really fun one to romp around in and I look forward to returning.
**I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.**
December 6, 2024
The Peppermint Problem is a cozy little novella about an imaginary village where all major (or rather the most popular) yearly holidays live joyfully next to each other and their leaders (think Cupid or Santa) work together to provide beautiful festive experiences not only for the inhabitants of this magical village, but also for us, ordinary humans. So yes, if you're looking for a short book to help you reach your yearly reading goals and, most importantly, to cheer and cozy you up in this busy month of December, this is a good book for that.
But what happens if one of the leaders starts feeling a bit too proud about himself and/ or his festival? Well, the harmony of the Holiday Village is challenged. And this is when we meet our main characters Gretchen Nightshade and Nick Kringle. Gretchen is a witch from the Halloween district and Nick is, well, he's the son of Santa Claus, about to inherit the esteemed role himself. Nick and Gretchen, they're here to save the day! And while they do that, we get to see their relationship blossom.
Forbidden love? Fake relationship? Friends to lovers? Yes, yes and yes! This little novella will give you all this and more. Great cozy, sweet (and a little spicy) read for the buzzing pre-Christmas period.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
But what happens if one of the leaders starts feeling a bit too proud about himself and/ or his festival? Well, the harmony of the Holiday Village is challenged. And this is when we meet our main characters Gretchen Nightshade and Nick Kringle. Gretchen is a witch from the Halloween district and Nick is, well, he's the son of Santa Claus, about to inherit the esteemed role himself. Nick and Gretchen, they're here to save the day! And while they do that, we get to see their relationship blossom.
Forbidden love? Fake relationship? Friends to lovers? Yes, yes and yes! This little novella will give you all this and more. Great cozy, sweet (and a little spicy) read for the buzzing pre-Christmas period.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 21, 2024
I received an ARC from the author and I am leaving a voluntary review. Thank you!
**
The story of Gretchen and Nick is so adorable. Absolutely adorable. I honestly had so much fun while reading this and the story was full of happiness and joy, with a pinch of angst that worked so well here.
Gretchen is a candy witch and her best friend is Nick, the future Santa of Christmas village. They known each other for years and years and their friendship is so solid, nothing can rock it. So she is unable to say no when Nick asks her to help to save Christmas with her candy, of course she can't say no. But hearts are at risk because in order to do the actual saving, Nick concots a hairbrained plan to say that they are engaged! With Gretchen hiding a big secret about harboring a crush for her best friend, can she make it through the holidays and keep her friendship intact?
I loved the tropes here; friends to lovers, pining, fake dating and some family drama prove to be a big hit for these two lovebirds. I absolutely adored how both of them stood up for each other and supported each other and the romance was so sweet and adorable. This was definitely a cozy read and I squealed with happiness once true feelings came out and these best friends realized the depth of love. Mmm, perfect.
This whole series is becoming a cozy comfort read and I am here for it.
**
The story of Gretchen and Nick is so adorable. Absolutely adorable. I honestly had so much fun while reading this and the story was full of happiness and joy, with a pinch of angst that worked so well here.
Gretchen is a candy witch and her best friend is Nick, the future Santa of Christmas village. They known each other for years and years and their friendship is so solid, nothing can rock it. So she is unable to say no when Nick asks her to help to save Christmas with her candy, of course she can't say no. But hearts are at risk because in order to do the actual saving, Nick concots a hairbrained plan to say that they are engaged! With Gretchen hiding a big secret about harboring a crush for her best friend, can she make it through the holidays and keep her friendship intact?
I loved the tropes here; friends to lovers, pining, fake dating and some family drama prove to be a big hit for these two lovebirds. I absolutely adored how both of them stood up for each other and supported each other and the romance was so sweet and adorable. This was definitely a cozy read and I squealed with happiness once true feelings came out and these best friends realized the depth of love. Mmm, perfect.
This whole series is becoming a cozy comfort read and I am here for it.
December 20, 2024
- Friends to lovers
- Fake relationship
- Christmas romance
I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK! It is quirky and wonderful. It also cleverly addresses unhealthy perceptions of others.
Halloween candy witch Gretchen has been helping her twin with watching her potion shop more and more lately. All she wants is to save enough money to realize her dream: opening a candy shop of her own.
Her best friend (and secret love) Nick, heir to the Kringle Dynasty, is in need of help. His father, the reigning Santa, is not so jolly anymore and his actins caused their head candy maker to leave… and take his candy recipes with him. Now only days before the big holiday, they are seriously behind in their candy quotas. He asks Gretchen to help, which she is more than glad to do. The twist? The workers in the candy factory..and Santa himself..are not too accepting of a Halloween witch's help. So Nick blurts out that they are engaged….
This is Gretchen's dream come true..to be in a relationship with Nick. But he has her FIRMLY in the friend zone. Will a mistletoe kiss change that?
This series is so amazing. I LOVE the world with all of the holidays co-existing in their own villages. I need to read the next story NOW!
- Fake relationship
- Christmas romance
I. LOVED. THIS. BOOK! It is quirky and wonderful. It also cleverly addresses unhealthy perceptions of others.
Halloween candy witch Gretchen has been helping her twin with watching her potion shop more and more lately. All she wants is to save enough money to realize her dream: opening a candy shop of her own.
Her best friend (and secret love) Nick, heir to the Kringle Dynasty, is in need of help. His father, the reigning Santa, is not so jolly anymore and his actins caused their head candy maker to leave… and take his candy recipes with him. Now only days before the big holiday, they are seriously behind in their candy quotas. He asks Gretchen to help, which she is more than glad to do. The twist? The workers in the candy factory..and Santa himself..are not too accepting of a Halloween witch's help. So Nick blurts out that they are engaged….
This is Gretchen's dream come true..to be in a relationship with Nick. But he has her FIRMLY in the friend zone. Will a mistletoe kiss change that?
This series is so amazing. I LOVE the world with all of the holidays co-existing in their own villages. I need to read the next story NOW!
December 8, 2024
Nick and Gretchen have been best friends since kids. He is the Christmas heir (the next Santa) and she is a shy candy witch. Trying to help him save the Christmas at the candy factory Gretchen finds herself fake engaged to Nick, her secret crush since she was 12 and who only sees her as a sister.
Santa, Nick's father, doesn't approve about their relationship or about a witch working in a Christmas factory but everyone of the rest of his family are happy about them finally dating/being engaged.
Nick's feelings start to change the moment he kisses her and starts to see her like the woman who understands him better than anyone. Could this "fake engagement" finally make Gretchen's dream about being with Nick come true?
This is a cute and cozy Xmas romance with fake dating, friends to lovers and one bed tropes.
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as standalone, and i'm very excited to read Beatrix's story because i'm a fan of enemies to lovers with marriage of convenience.
-ARC read-
Santa, Nick's father, doesn't approve about their relationship or about a witch working in a Christmas factory but everyone of the rest of his family are happy about them finally dating/being engaged.
Nick's feelings start to change the moment he kisses her and starts to see her like the woman who understands him better than anyone. Could this "fake engagement" finally make Gretchen's dream about being with Nick come true?
This is a cute and cozy Xmas romance with fake dating, friends to lovers and one bed tropes.
This is the second book in the series but it can be read as standalone, and i'm very excited to read Beatrix's story because i'm a fan of enemies to lovers with marriage of convenience.
-ARC read-
December 9, 2024
*The Peppermint Problem* is a cozy and spicy Christmas romance that continues the *Holiday Village Romance* series. When the Christmas neighborhood’s head candy maker quits just before Christmas, Gretchen Nightshade, a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood, steps in to help. But Santa and the elves aren’t thrilled about it, so Nick, her best friend and heir to Christmas, announces they're *engaged*—even though they’re not dating!
Gretchen, who’s secretly had a crush on Nick for years, is shocked, but the fake engagement forces them into close proximity, awakening feelings Nick didn’t know he had. Filled with holiday magic, humor, and sweet moments, this novella captures the charm of Christmas and the spark between Gretchen and Nick.
Although it’s a standalone, *The Peppermint Problem* is a perfect follow-up to *The Heartbreak Hex*, and I can’t wait to see where the *Holiday Village* series goes next. If you love a sweet, spicy romance with fake dating and friends-to-lovers tropes, this one’s a must-read!
Gretchen, who’s secretly had a crush on Nick for years, is shocked, but the fake engagement forces them into close proximity, awakening feelings Nick didn’t know he had. Filled with holiday magic, humor, and sweet moments, this novella captures the charm of Christmas and the spark between Gretchen and Nick.
Although it’s a standalone, *The Peppermint Problem* is a perfect follow-up to *The Heartbreak Hex*, and I can’t wait to see where the *Holiday Village* series goes next. If you love a sweet, spicy romance with fake dating and friends-to-lovers tropes, this one’s a must-read!
December 6, 2025
Another amazingly sweet, a little spicy, and fun romance novella! This is book 2/5 in the Holiday Village Romance series and I enjoyed it even more than the first!
For starters, we are following best friends Gretchen (a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood) and Nick Jr (heir to the Kringle Dynasty). They have known each other since they were kids and Gretchen has always had a crush on Nick, but he has no idea. Their history makes their chemistry that much better.
Just days before Christmas the head candy confectioner and his sous chefs in the Christmas neighborhood unexpectedly quit leaving everyone is afraid the holiday is ruined! However, Nick has a plan to save Christmas and Gretchen agrees to go along for the ride. The mission is to save the holiday and meet the candy quota before Christmas Eve.
What their plan did not initially include was, a fake engagement, mistletoe kisses, and all of the obstacles Nick’s dad (Santa) puts in front of them.
This book leaves you feeling giddy for these two besties turned lovers and is a must read — especially for the holidays!
For starters, we are following best friends Gretchen (a candy witch from the Halloween neighborhood) and Nick Jr (heir to the Kringle Dynasty). They have known each other since they were kids and Gretchen has always had a crush on Nick, but he has no idea. Their history makes their chemistry that much better.
Just days before Christmas the head candy confectioner and his sous chefs in the Christmas neighborhood unexpectedly quit leaving everyone is afraid the holiday is ruined! However, Nick has a plan to save Christmas and Gretchen agrees to go along for the ride. The mission is to save the holiday and meet the candy quota before Christmas Eve.
What their plan did not initially include was, a fake engagement, mistletoe kisses, and all of the obstacles Nick’s dad (Santa) puts in front of them.
This book leaves you feeling giddy for these two besties turned lovers and is a must read — especially for the holidays!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 2, 2026
'Tis the season for a fake engagement between friends.
Nick and Gretchen were cute together. They weren't as adorable as Gertrude and Vlad, but their chemistry worked well, with Gretchen secretly pining for her best friend and Nick utterly oblivious to even his own feelings for his best gal pal. (Though, I'm pretty sure even Vlad had it figured out by his first meeting with Nick, back in the first book.) I love that Nick stood up to his dad for Gretchen, and how Gretchen didn't want Nick to throw away his relationship with his dad while still refusing to tolerate Old Nick's disrespect.
As for the story, it was almost too sweet, but perfect for a Christmasy mood. Some might find the story beats predictable and cliche, but I find them well done, comforting even. Removing some of the more religious elements of the holiday, the author gets down to the true spirit of Christmas: giving and the joy found in spending time with loved ones.
Overall Verdict: 9 peppermint candies out of 10
P.S. Nick's assistant Stella is my spirit animal 😉
Nick and Gretchen were cute together. They weren't as adorable as Gertrude and Vlad, but their chemistry worked well, with Gretchen secretly pining for her best friend and Nick utterly oblivious to even his own feelings for his best gal pal. (Though, I'm pretty sure even Vlad had it figured out by his first meeting with Nick, back in the first book.) I love that Nick stood up to his dad for Gretchen, and how Gretchen didn't want Nick to throw away his relationship with his dad while still refusing to tolerate Old Nick's disrespect.
As for the story, it was almost too sweet, but perfect for a Christmasy mood. Some might find the story beats predictable and cliche, but I find them well done, comforting even. Removing some of the more religious elements of the holiday, the author gets down to the true spirit of Christmas: giving and the joy found in spending time with loved ones.
Overall Verdict: 9 peppermint candies out of 10
P.S. Nick's assistant Stella is my spirit animal 😉
November 20, 2024
This was a quick and easy read. Steamy, a little angsty, sweet and heartwarming. This was a really well-written book that is part Hallmark in it's sweetness and the concept idea is just brilliant. I loved the whole premise of a Holiday Village (now I have to go back and read book 1 to get Gretchen's sister's story). The main characters were so adorable, you can't help but love them in this story. All the quirky side characters/creatures added to the enjoyment of this book. We usually expect typical Christmas stories to be cookie cutter sweet, but this one was fresh and delightful and I devoured it in one sitting. Although short, this was well worth the time spent reading. I loved it and highly recommend it if you want a fresh take on a Christmas love story with magic and mystical creatures.
I received an ARC of this book from the author and Book Sirens and this is a voluntary review.
December 2, 2024
Rating: 4.5/5⭐️
Spice: 1/5 🌶️
Themes:
🎄Dual POV
🎄Friends to Lovers
🎄Hallmark Christmas Vibes
🎄Fake Engagement
🎄Fighting Prejudices
I am loving the holiday themed romance novellas that Jordyn Alexander has released recently. This one follows Gretchen, a talented candy witch and her best friend and long time crush Nick who is a Christmas elf but also the heir to the Kringle Dynasty. When Christmas is put into jeopardy Nick seeks Gretchen’s help to meet the candy quota in order to save Christmas. The couple faces prejudices and disapproval throughout the story primarily from Old Nick (Santa Claus).
The Peppermint Problem is a short, quick, cute read to get you into the Christmas spirit. This is technically book 2 in the Holiday Village Romances series but it could be read as a standalone. I hope that we will eventually see a book for Frostbeard and Merry, but I am excited to find out what happens in the next story between Beatrix and Curtis.
Spice: 1/5 🌶️
Themes:
🎄Dual POV
🎄Friends to Lovers
🎄Hallmark Christmas Vibes
🎄Fake Engagement
🎄Fighting Prejudices
I am loving the holiday themed romance novellas that Jordyn Alexander has released recently. This one follows Gretchen, a talented candy witch and her best friend and long time crush Nick who is a Christmas elf but also the heir to the Kringle Dynasty. When Christmas is put into jeopardy Nick seeks Gretchen’s help to meet the candy quota in order to save Christmas. The couple faces prejudices and disapproval throughout the story primarily from Old Nick (Santa Claus).
The Peppermint Problem is a short, quick, cute read to get you into the Christmas spirit. This is technically book 2 in the Holiday Village Romances series but it could be read as a standalone. I hope that we will eventually see a book for Frostbeard and Merry, but I am excited to find out what happens in the next story between Beatrix and Curtis.
December 4, 2024
I was lucky enough to be an ARC Reader for the first part of the series and now I got to read and review this one as well… It did NOT disappoint.
Loved this part maybe even more than the Heartbreak Hex, and that one was a 5 star read already. Gretchen is such a sweet, caring, introverted, forgiving Halloween witch. She is allowing her twin to spend time with her boyfriend by taking over the potion shop, even though she only wants to make candy. And she helps save Christmas even though Santa and the other elves weren't that nice to her. She is in love with her best friend Nick (the elf that is the heir of Christmas), and their love story is just amazing.
It was such a cosy, Hallmark Christmas rom-com.. But make it Spicy. I ate it up in 1 read, couldn't put it down.
Thanks so much to Jordyn Alexander and Book Sirens for entrusting me with writing an honest review in exchange for this ARC.
Loved this part maybe even more than the Heartbreak Hex, and that one was a 5 star read already. Gretchen is such a sweet, caring, introverted, forgiving Halloween witch. She is allowing her twin to spend time with her boyfriend by taking over the potion shop, even though she only wants to make candy. And she helps save Christmas even though Santa and the other elves weren't that nice to her. She is in love with her best friend Nick (the elf that is the heir of Christmas), and their love story is just amazing.
It was such a cosy, Hallmark Christmas rom-com.. But make it Spicy. I ate it up in 1 read, couldn't put it down.
Thanks so much to Jordyn Alexander and Book Sirens for entrusting me with writing an honest review in exchange for this ARC.
December 6, 2024
✨The Peppermint Problem by Jordyn Alexander ✨
🍬I really enjoyed this whimsical holiday rom-com! 🎃🎅Gretchen, a green Halloween candy-baking witch, teams up with her best friend, Nick Kringle—a Christmas elf who also happens to be Santa’s son—for a sugary-sweet fake engagement.
🍬Nick needs Gretchen’s magical candy-making skills to fix a crisis in Santa’s workshop, but the real problem is that their pretend romance starts to feel all too real. While Gretchen’s sweets win over everyone except Nick’s disapproving father, it’s Nick who finds himself falling for more than just her candy.
🍬Can a Halloween witch and a Christmas elf overcome their differences and create magic together? Or will their friendship crumble like sugar crystals?
💚♥️This story is a cozy, festive delight with the perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit. Perfect for fans of fake-dating tropes, holiday mashups, and sweet, magical romances!
4.5🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
🍬I really enjoyed this whimsical holiday rom-com! 🎃🎅Gretchen, a green Halloween candy-baking witch, teams up with her best friend, Nick Kringle—a Christmas elf who also happens to be Santa’s son—for a sugary-sweet fake engagement.
🍬Nick needs Gretchen’s magical candy-making skills to fix a crisis in Santa’s workshop, but the real problem is that their pretend romance starts to feel all too real. While Gretchen’s sweets win over everyone except Nick’s disapproving father, it’s Nick who finds himself falling for more than just her candy.
🍬Can a Halloween witch and a Christmas elf overcome their differences and create magic together? Or will their friendship crumble like sugar crystals?
💚♥️This story is a cozy, festive delight with the perfect blend of humor, heart, and holiday spirit. Perfect for fans of fake-dating tropes, holiday mashups, and sweet, magical romances!
4.5🌟🌟🌟🌟💫/5
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