What do you think?
Rate this book
Wishing Tree, Vermont #3
The Magic of Midnight
In the small town of Wishing Tree, Vermont, Wesley has broken free from the golden cage of his wealthy family’s expectations. Now, he’s hiding away in his beloved bookstore, a cozy haven filled with stories that warm the soul. But his greatest joy? Showing the grumpy coffee shop owner next door that life doesn’t have to be so serious—especially at Christmas.
Hunter never planned to trade lectures on history for steaming lattes and frothy cappuccinos. But when a sudden twist of fate lands him in Vermont, running a coffee shop he inherited, he buries himself in the daily grind, determined to avoid messy emotions—and the annoyingly cheerful bookstore owner who seems intent on dragging him out of his shell.
Wesley’s relentless charm and holiday spirit clash with Hunter’s stubborn pragmatism, sparking irritation, banter, and undeniable chemistry. Underneath the tension, stolen kisses and quiet moments reveal a connection that feels like the season’s magic.
But just as their love begins to bloom, a twist of fate threatens to pull them apart. With Christmas fast approaching, can Wesley and Hunter overcome the odds and find their happily ever after? Or will their story end before the final snowflake falls?
Hunter never planned to trade lectures on history for steaming lattes and frothy cappuccinos. But when a sudden twist of fate lands him in Vermont, running a coffee shop he inherited, he buries himself in the daily grind, determined to avoid messy emotions—and the annoyingly cheerful bookstore owner who seems intent on dragging him out of his shell.
Wesley’s relentless charm and holiday spirit clash with Hunter’s stubborn pragmatism, sparking irritation, banter, and undeniable chemistry. Underneath the tension, stolen kisses and quiet moments reveal a connection that feels like the season’s magic.
But just as their love begins to bloom, a twist of fate threatens to pull them apart. With Christmas fast approaching, can Wesley and Hunter overcome the odds and find their happily ever after? Or will their story end before the final snowflake falls?
292 pages
First published December 1, 2025
31 people are currently reading
90 people want to read
About the author
R.J. Scott
307 books2,719 followersRJ Scott writes heartwarming, passionate MM/gay romance stories where every man finds his happily ever after. When not writing, she enjoys reading books, watching movies, spending time with her family, following Formula 1 (Forza Ferrari!), and cheering on the Pittsburgh Penguins. Email her here: rj@rjscott.co.uk
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Find RJ here: Amazon | BookBub | Facebook - Also, Never miss a release
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 28, 2025
3.5 Stars
Although not quite as wonderful as the previous two romances in this M/M holiday series, The Magic of Midnight was still an effortlessly engaging read, with a great ensemble cast, a lovely grumpy x sunshine pairing, and plenty of small-town, wintery-Christmas vibes to warm my heart up and make me smile.
I simply adore it here in R.J. Scott’s Wishing Tree, Vermont, so I’ll absolutely be back next holiday season for the next charming instalment.
Although not quite as wonderful as the previous two romances in this M/M holiday series, The Magic of Midnight was still an effortlessly engaging read, with a great ensemble cast, a lovely grumpy x sunshine pairing, and plenty of small-town, wintery-Christmas vibes to warm my heart up and make me smile.
I simply adore it here in R.J. Scott’s Wishing Tree, Vermont, so I’ll absolutely be back next holiday season for the next charming instalment.
November 10, 2025
I do love me a small town romance and this one, with it's grumpy one/sunshine one pairing was a delight.
RJ always brings the feels and here there's a double element of two lost souls a bit out of place and finding they're having to deal with a new reality.
Both characters are compelling and I was rooting for them from the off, Wes is the sweetest and kindest of people, and while Hunter appears all prickly on the surface, it's clear he's bruised from a great hurt.
Together they fratch and spark and, when the tension finally boils over, they combust! As with the other books in this series, I wish we'd had more on page content when they finally do come together sexually, I always feel like I'm missing out on the intimacy which comes from making yourself vulnerable.
However, that's a small niggle in what was otherwise a really lovely romance.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
RJ always brings the feels and here there's a double element of two lost souls a bit out of place and finding they're having to deal with a new reality.
Both characters are compelling and I was rooting for them from the off, Wes is the sweetest and kindest of people, and while Hunter appears all prickly on the surface, it's clear he's bruised from a great hurt.
Together they fratch and spark and, when the tension finally boils over, they combust! As with the other books in this series, I wish we'd had more on page content when they finally do come together sexually, I always feel like I'm missing out on the intimacy which comes from making yourself vulnerable.
However, that's a small niggle in what was otherwise a really lovely romance.
#ARC kindly received from the author, I am voluntarily leaving a review
November 9, 2025
It was very sweet. I did wonder about Hunter and Westley as a possible couple in the last book and I'm glad I was proven right on that one. It was pretty enjoyable
November 15, 2025
The Magic of Midnight is the third book in the ‘Wishing Tree, Vermont’ series. It stars Wesley, owner of a bookstore, and Hunter, owner of a coffeeshop next to the bookstore. This is told in first person from Wesley and Hunter’s pov.
The blurb gives the basic run-down of the plot but I’ll add a bit more. This story is about the growing and changing relationship between Wesley and Hunter. How they navigate the events of Hunter finding a new teaching position, Wesley’s plan to have an author signing event for his favorite author, and Wishing Tree’s Christmas parade. Despite the conflicts, this is fluffy with lots of holiday feels. The author did a terrific job of creating a Christmas story. This is the third book in this series, but I only read the first book and not the second. I didn’t feel lost in this one.
As to the characters, the author created two distinct main characters, along with distinct secondary characters. Wesley is having a hard time keeping his bookshop afloat. Despite having a large trust fund, he doesn’t know how to use it, he just signs documents allowing his family, who he’s estranged from, run it. Hunter runs a coffeeshop that he inherited, but hates it. He was let go from his position at a university as a History professor because of his underhanded ex-boyfriend. Hunter lives with that resentment and his unhappiness, which makes him grumpy. That creates another trope grumpy/sunshine which is written well. Wesley tries always to look on the bright side of life, although his background isn’t that happy. A lot of his current success is pure determination and spite, plus he left his family with items he could sell to get cash. I liked Wesley’s optimism, although it led to a bit of ‘ignorance is bliss’ moments, like his trust fund, until Wesley contacted a lawyer. Hunter had the most character growth as he let Wesley into his life. Hunter just needed to adjust what he thought he wanted to make himself happy, which was status and prestige, to accept that having more influence at a smaller university was better, and that small town living and someone who loved him was most important. The author handled Hunter’s growth well, and Wesley’s growth into becoming more financially aware and helping his business grow.
I really enjoyed The Magic of Midnight. It’s a fluffy, Christmas read, with great main and secondary characters. This can be read as a stand-alone because previous characters in this series don’t show up that much in this book. I recommend this to anyone looking for a happy, holiday read. I give this, 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
The blurb gives the basic run-down of the plot but I’ll add a bit more. This story is about the growing and changing relationship between Wesley and Hunter. How they navigate the events of Hunter finding a new teaching position, Wesley’s plan to have an author signing event for his favorite author, and Wishing Tree’s Christmas parade. Despite the conflicts, this is fluffy with lots of holiday feels. The author did a terrific job of creating a Christmas story. This is the third book in this series, but I only read the first book and not the second. I didn’t feel lost in this one.
As to the characters, the author created two distinct main characters, along with distinct secondary characters. Wesley is having a hard time keeping his bookshop afloat. Despite having a large trust fund, he doesn’t know how to use it, he just signs documents allowing his family, who he’s estranged from, run it. Hunter runs a coffeeshop that he inherited, but hates it. He was let go from his position at a university as a History professor because of his underhanded ex-boyfriend. Hunter lives with that resentment and his unhappiness, which makes him grumpy. That creates another trope grumpy/sunshine which is written well. Wesley tries always to look on the bright side of life, although his background isn’t that happy. A lot of his current success is pure determination and spite, plus he left his family with items he could sell to get cash. I liked Wesley’s optimism, although it led to a bit of ‘ignorance is bliss’ moments, like his trust fund, until Wesley contacted a lawyer. Hunter had the most character growth as he let Wesley into his life. Hunter just needed to adjust what he thought he wanted to make himself happy, which was status and prestige, to accept that having more influence at a smaller university was better, and that small town living and someone who loved him was most important. The author handled Hunter’s growth well, and Wesley’s growth into becoming more financially aware and helping his business grow.
I really enjoyed The Magic of Midnight. It’s a fluffy, Christmas read, with great main and secondary characters. This can be read as a stand-alone because previous characters in this series don’t show up that much in this book. I recommend this to anyone looking for a happy, holiday read. I give this, 5 Stars.
I received an ARC from the author. This is my honest and unbiased opinion.
November 19, 2025
In this tender and quietly powerful romance, two men with heartbreak etched into their pasts find unexpected healing in each other. Hunter, a former history professor betrayed by his ex and exiled from academia, is counting down the months until he can escape the coffee shop he inherited—an obligation he loathes. Grumpy, guarded, and deeply wounded, he’s a man who’s lost faith in connection. Next door, Wesley runs a struggling bookstore with a smile that belies the pain of being disowned by his family for being gay. Despite everything, Wesley radiates warmth, optimism, and a kind of chaotic charm that’s impossible to ignore. Set in a small town, the story wisely avoids the trap of overpopulating the narrative. Secondary characters are present but not overwhelming, allowing the focus to remain on Hunter and Wesley’s emotional journey. In the end, this is a story about resilience, finding love, and two men who should have given up on romance, but didn’t.
January 9, 2026
There's something about The Magic of Midnight that hit hard for me.
Why can't families love their children unconditionally?
Why there's always 'condition' about who they are and who and what they can be?
Can't they be themselves instead?
We children don't owe anything to the people's expectations, we are free to be ourselves, to be what we are. Why does it happen all the time in real life that makes me sick.
Wesley and Hunter are so lucky they've finally found each other.
To hell with the family, you can choose your family and be happy with that!
Why can't families love their children unconditionally?
Why there's always 'condition' about who they are and who and what they can be?
Can't they be themselves instead?
We children don't owe anything to the people's expectations, we are free to be ourselves, to be what we are. Why does it happen all the time in real life that makes me sick.
Wesley and Hunter are so lucky they've finally found each other.
To hell with the family, you can choose your family and be happy with that!
November 19, 2025
It is so good to be back in Wishing Tree, Vermont for our annual dose of small-town romance from one of my favourite authors. This year we got sunshiny and cute Wesley, and grumpy Hunter’s story, and it was fabulous. Both men are struggling, Wesley with keeping his bookshop and Hunter with the job he lost and a coffee shop he never wanted but beneath that is an attraction they can’t resist. Theirs is a sweet, no-angst story with adorable MCs, emotion and heat. I loved Wesley’s motor-mouth and his imagination and he was perfect for Hunter who at first spoke more in scowls than he did in words. The book left me feeling warm and fuzzy and I can’t wait for the next book to come out next year. Highly recommended.
November 9, 2025
Its great to be back in Wishing Tree.
This time we have Wesley, the sunshine filled book store owner, who's struggling to keep his buisness open while ignoring the family who rejected him and Hunter, the grumpy Coffee shop owner who's trying to get back to the life he once had. While these 2 seem polar opposites, they balance each other perfectly.
I adored this story, from the moments of Hunter trying to hide his smile and amusement, to the infectious joy Wesley brought.
This story had a strong found family feel, filled with acceptance and discovery. Following along while the boys figured out what was important to them made this an heartwarming read that pulled you along for the ride.
Fabulous festive read.....who doesn't love a Nordic theme Christmas and a giant yule goat!!!!
This time we have Wesley, the sunshine filled book store owner, who's struggling to keep his buisness open while ignoring the family who rejected him and Hunter, the grumpy Coffee shop owner who's trying to get back to the life he once had. While these 2 seem polar opposites, they balance each other perfectly.
I adored this story, from the moments of Hunter trying to hide his smile and amusement, to the infectious joy Wesley brought.
This story had a strong found family feel, filled with acceptance and discovery. Following along while the boys figured out what was important to them made this an heartwarming read that pulled you along for the ride.
Fabulous festive read.....who doesn't love a Nordic theme Christmas and a giant yule goat!!!!
November 13, 2025
The grumpy/sunshine pairing of Hunter and Wesley in Wishing Tree, Vermont, is as sweet as a cup of Christmas cocoa. With all the things that make Christmas romances special, this one also has internal struggles (Hunter) and family drama (Wes). I loved the subplot with author Adrian as well.
Scott, as usual, excels at creating a found family readers will yearn to be a part of and an idyllic small town reminiscent of the best Hallmark has ever produced. Wishing Tree continues to appeal with its inter-connected residents who embrace all the town has to offer — even when that means celebrating giant Yule goats.
Of course, most readers will also fall in love with Wes’ quirky bookstore, because what’s not to love? Add in cute niblings and you have all the components for a cozy winter read. 5 stars.
Scott, as usual, excels at creating a found family readers will yearn to be a part of and an idyllic small town reminiscent of the best Hallmark has ever produced. Wishing Tree continues to appeal with its inter-connected residents who embrace all the town has to offer — even when that means celebrating giant Yule goats.
Of course, most readers will also fall in love with Wes’ quirky bookstore, because what’s not to love? Add in cute niblings and you have all the components for a cozy winter read. 5 stars.
November 9, 2025
I love the Wishing Tree series. Wes is so enthusiastic, optimistic, and full of ideas that Hunter can’t remain a Scrooge for very long in his presence. Hunter is so focused on his misery in Wishing Tree that he almost misses the truth right in front of his face: what made him happy about being a professor wasn’t the politics and prestige. He let himself get too far away from his love of the job and got caught up in the very arrogance and snobbery that cost him his previous life in the first place. Wes is such a sweetheart, not out of innocence, but out of strength and determination. I truly enjoyed this one. I am going to need to go back and reread the other books in this series now!
November 6, 2025
I loved returning to the Wishing Tree, Vermont series. With the Hallmark like Christmas town and excellent characters this book will forever be on my Christmas comfort read list. Wes with his sunshine optimism and Hunters grumpiness make an excellent couple. Looking forward to what comes next.
November 20, 2025
This was delightful, up until the very end, but we'll get to that.
This is a grumpy-sunshine trope Christmas romance between Wesley, the owner of the bookstore in Wishing Tree, and Hunter, the owner of the coffeeshop next door, who used to be a college History professor on tenure track until his ex-boyfriend screwed him over and he lost his job.
Hunter inherited the coffeeshop with a provision that he must run it for 2 years before he can sell it. Hunter doesn't like running the coffeeshop, and he's still very angry about losing the tenure, which makes him quite the grump.
Wesley, on the other hand, is happy and sunshiny and optimistic, even if he's a bit worried about the bookstore making enough money to stay open. After having been kicked out by his family for being gay, he landed in Wishing Tree, VT, and made a new life for himself.
I so enjoyed watching these two very different men tiptoe toward each other, with Wesley doing all the heavy lifting initially, and eventually just charming the pants off Hunter.
Told in dual POVs, the writing made it easy to care for these two, and to root for them. Both of them have that lost soul aura, even though their presence in Wishing Tree may be for different reasons. The conflict early on is because prickly Hunter wants nothing to do with any Yule-themed parade planning that Wesley wants to involve him with, but Wesley is persistent, and cute, and chatty, and eventually he does break through Hunter's defenses and the cactus exterior.
The secondary conflict has to do with Hunter's desire to leave Wishing Tree and find a tenure-track teaching position at a prestigious university, and though he has an offer from a somewhat local school, he still feels the need to prove himself to the ex-boyfriend by getting hired at a well-known, large school.
I enjoyed watching Hunter thaw to Wesley's optimism and general happiness, and grow as a character. I also enjoyed Wesley growing, as he finally pulls his head out of the sand and deals with his family issues, which turns out to be a good idea, considering.
Along the way, Hunter falls more in love with Wesley, to the point where he makes the right decision.
The only thing I didn't like was the proposal, which to me happened much too soon for the relationship development up to that point. I guess when you know, you know?
The author also sets up the next book which will involve Wesley's little brother Rupert, who suffered the same fate when he told his ultra-conservative and wealthy family about his being bi.
Anyway, this was lovely overall. The author just writes emotions so well, and that made the book so enjoyable.
Recommended!
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
This is a grumpy-sunshine trope Christmas romance between Wesley, the owner of the bookstore in Wishing Tree, and Hunter, the owner of the coffeeshop next door, who used to be a college History professor on tenure track until his ex-boyfriend screwed him over and he lost his job.
Hunter inherited the coffeeshop with a provision that he must run it for 2 years before he can sell it. Hunter doesn't like running the coffeeshop, and he's still very angry about losing the tenure, which makes him quite the grump.
Wesley, on the other hand, is happy and sunshiny and optimistic, even if he's a bit worried about the bookstore making enough money to stay open. After having been kicked out by his family for being gay, he landed in Wishing Tree, VT, and made a new life for himself.
I so enjoyed watching these two very different men tiptoe toward each other, with Wesley doing all the heavy lifting initially, and eventually just charming the pants off Hunter.
Told in dual POVs, the writing made it easy to care for these two, and to root for them. Both of them have that lost soul aura, even though their presence in Wishing Tree may be for different reasons. The conflict early on is because prickly Hunter wants nothing to do with any Yule-themed parade planning that Wesley wants to involve him with, but Wesley is persistent, and cute, and chatty, and eventually he does break through Hunter's defenses and the cactus exterior.
The secondary conflict has to do with Hunter's desire to leave Wishing Tree and find a tenure-track teaching position at a prestigious university, and though he has an offer from a somewhat local school, he still feels the need to prove himself to the ex-boyfriend by getting hired at a well-known, large school.
I enjoyed watching Hunter thaw to Wesley's optimism and general happiness, and grow as a character. I also enjoyed Wesley growing, as he finally pulls his head out of the sand and deals with his family issues, which turns out to be a good idea, considering.
Along the way, Hunter falls more in love with Wesley, to the point where he makes the right decision.
The only thing I didn't like was the proposal, which to me happened much too soon for the relationship development up to that point. I guess when you know, you know?
The author also sets up the next book which will involve Wesley's little brother Rupert, who suffered the same fate when he told his ultra-conservative and wealthy family about his being bi.
Anyway, this was lovely overall. The author just writes emotions so well, and that made the book so enjoyable.
Recommended!
** I received a free copy of this book from its author in exchange for an honest review. **
December 3, 2025
This is the third in the Wishing Tree series, and reminds me why I want to visit a place like Wishing Tree. They aren’t over the top Christmas but the small town is lovely and warm. Wesley was thrown out by his bigoted, uber-religious, uber-conservative family when he was 18, and he’s ended up here in Wishing Tree, running his beloved bookstore, The Storybook Lantern. The store is struggling a bit (as most independent bookstores are these days), and Wes is doing all he can to keep it going. He has an amazing volunteer/assistant/bestie in Brooke, and she’s helping. The best part of it right now is the very grumpy coffee-shop owner next door, Hunter.
Hunter is carrying baggage of his own, and yes, he is grumpy. Crabby. Cranky. Wes isn’t bothered by this. In fact, he likes it, and his mission is to make Hunter less crabby. For his part, Hunter can’t figure out what it is about Wes. “Attraction, irritation, confusion-all knotted together.” Hunter had a bad breakup, lost out on tenure, and lost his parents all in a short period of time. “I lost my parents, lost the tenure track, found out my trust fund ex was playing me the whole time, then I got a letter telling me I’d inherited a coffee shop in the Christmas capital of Vermont.” He decided to take a step away from that situation, and since the coffee shop came with the stipulation that he had to actually run it for two years, in Wishing Tree he stayed. For a while, until his dream job in LA was available.
Wes’s story with his family is awful. They are disgusting, all but his youngest brother, Rupert. “I never missed my parents, nor my bullying brothers Benedict or Lewis, but my kid brother, Ruper? Yeah. I missed him.” The rest of the family? They continue to be horrid. “I came out at eighteen and they made it clear I was done. No home. No college fund. No family name. Expelled, erased, disowned – the whole scorched earth package.” I loved that Hunter corrects Wes every time he mentions it might be his fault.
We get to see Hunter lose some of the that grumpiness and Wes start to bloom on his own. It’s lovely. “It tastes like…Christmas had a baby with a cuddle.” Yes, indeed it does.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
Hunter is carrying baggage of his own, and yes, he is grumpy. Crabby. Cranky. Wes isn’t bothered by this. In fact, he likes it, and his mission is to make Hunter less crabby. For his part, Hunter can’t figure out what it is about Wes. “Attraction, irritation, confusion-all knotted together.” Hunter had a bad breakup, lost out on tenure, and lost his parents all in a short period of time. “I lost my parents, lost the tenure track, found out my trust fund ex was playing me the whole time, then I got a letter telling me I’d inherited a coffee shop in the Christmas capital of Vermont.” He decided to take a step away from that situation, and since the coffee shop came with the stipulation that he had to actually run it for two years, in Wishing Tree he stayed. For a while, until his dream job in LA was available.
Wes’s story with his family is awful. They are disgusting, all but his youngest brother, Rupert. “I never missed my parents, nor my bullying brothers Benedict or Lewis, but my kid brother, Ruper? Yeah. I missed him.” The rest of the family? They continue to be horrid. “I came out at eighteen and they made it clear I was done. No home. No college fund. No family name. Expelled, erased, disowned – the whole scorched earth package.” I loved that Hunter corrects Wes every time he mentions it might be his fault.
We get to see Hunter lose some of the that grumpiness and Wes start to bloom on his own. It’s lovely. “It tastes like…Christmas had a baby with a cuddle.” Yes, indeed it does.
Reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews
November 9, 2025
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Two guys who each has a traumatic background that would seem to deny any desire for love, still manage to fall. Hunter, a former history professor, was duped out of his career by his ex and lost all his friends. He inherited a coffee shop next to Wesley’s bookstore with the condition that he had to run it for two years before selling and he hates it, leaving him miserable and grumpy. Now he’s a few months away from that and is looking forward to getting back into academia, preferably at UCLA or in Seattle. Wesley was kicked out of his family at 18 because he’s gay. He even changed his name to signal his break and has opened a bookstore. It’s not doing well and he’s a year away from receiving his large trust fund to put money into it. He still manages to maintain his sunshiny disposition. Adding to this, both Wesley and Hunter have crushes on each other. They succumb to the crushes on the way to a happy ending.
I loved Wesley with his sunny disposition and verbal diarrhea. To be honest, I also loved Hunter, notwithstanding his grumpiness that is more bluster than anything. Wesley can get him to do things that go against his grain. The conversion of Hunter from grumpy to happy is handled well by the author and is totally believable. And she leaves Wesley with his sunniness which I thought was perfect. This story takes place in a small town, but the townsfolk writ large are not hauled out in it. The author keeps the secondary characters to a reasonable level. Doing this allows each character to have a greater part in sustaining the plot, which is fairly straightforward, with few deviations. The only nasty characters are off page (Wesley’s family and Hunter’s ex).
In short, I truly enjoyed this book but I’m disappointed that I have to wait until next Christmas to read the sequel.
Two guys who each has a traumatic background that would seem to deny any desire for love, still manage to fall. Hunter, a former history professor, was duped out of his career by his ex and lost all his friends. He inherited a coffee shop next to Wesley’s bookstore with the condition that he had to run it for two years before selling and he hates it, leaving him miserable and grumpy. Now he’s a few months away from that and is looking forward to getting back into academia, preferably at UCLA or in Seattle. Wesley was kicked out of his family at 18 because he’s gay. He even changed his name to signal his break and has opened a bookstore. It’s not doing well and he’s a year away from receiving his large trust fund to put money into it. He still manages to maintain his sunshiny disposition. Adding to this, both Wesley and Hunter have crushes on each other. They succumb to the crushes on the way to a happy ending.
I loved Wesley with his sunny disposition and verbal diarrhea. To be honest, I also loved Hunter, notwithstanding his grumpiness that is more bluster than anything. Wesley can get him to do things that go against his grain. The conversion of Hunter from grumpy to happy is handled well by the author and is totally believable. And she leaves Wesley with his sunniness which I thought was perfect. This story takes place in a small town, but the townsfolk writ large are not hauled out in it. The author keeps the secondary characters to a reasonable level. Doing this allows each character to have a greater part in sustaining the plot, which is fairly straightforward, with few deviations. The only nasty characters are off page (Wesley’s family and Hunter’s ex).
In short, I truly enjoyed this book but I’m disappointed that I have to wait until next Christmas to read the sequel.
November 21, 2025
This story was everything I'd hoped for and more.
I had my fingers crossed after the last Wishing Tree book that the new release would focus on Hunter and Wesley. What a joy to witness that my hopes have become reality.
I could barely contain my excitement to find out how RJ succeeded in bringing those two together. And I was not disappointed.
A wonderful and well crafted read with two MCs who are very dear to me. Both are a bit hurt and especially Hunter tries to hide that fact behind his grumpiness. But Wesley doesn't care and won't be discouraged.
Wesley is – no matter his own past – the sunshiny of the two. He's constantly trying to rope Hunter into his shenanigans and ideas for decorating and participating in town festivities.
Though he may occasionally seem like a bulldozer with his nonstop chatter and tendency to ignore all the 'NOs,' he is the fresh breath of air Hunter needs.
I absolutely loved watching how Wesley managed to get Hunter engaged and involved and made him with that somehow at least a little bit part of the community as well as part of his own 'found family'.
And there is no one who writes found family as well as Mrs. Scott. So heart warming, moving and genuine that I couldn't stop thinking how much I wished to be there as well, being part of the town and involved with the community.
A thoroughly enjoyable read featuring characters who felt so authentic that I'd love to meet them in real life. I was rooting for those two right from the start and was thrilled how the story unfolded.
I really hope that's not the last time we meet those two.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next in the series. That will be a loooooong year of waiting. Thankfully I can just re-read all three already published books in the series.
Give it chance yourself.
I had my fingers crossed after the last Wishing Tree book that the new release would focus on Hunter and Wesley. What a joy to witness that my hopes have become reality.
I could barely contain my excitement to find out how RJ succeeded in bringing those two together. And I was not disappointed.
A wonderful and well crafted read with two MCs who are very dear to me. Both are a bit hurt and especially Hunter tries to hide that fact behind his grumpiness. But Wesley doesn't care and won't be discouraged.
Wesley is – no matter his own past – the sunshiny of the two. He's constantly trying to rope Hunter into his shenanigans and ideas for decorating and participating in town festivities.
Though he may occasionally seem like a bulldozer with his nonstop chatter and tendency to ignore all the 'NOs,' he is the fresh breath of air Hunter needs.
I absolutely loved watching how Wesley managed to get Hunter engaged and involved and made him with that somehow at least a little bit part of the community as well as part of his own 'found family'.
And there is no one who writes found family as well as Mrs. Scott. So heart warming, moving and genuine that I couldn't stop thinking how much I wished to be there as well, being part of the town and involved with the community.
A thoroughly enjoyable read featuring characters who felt so authentic that I'd love to meet them in real life. I was rooting for those two right from the start and was thrilled how the story unfolded.
I really hope that's not the last time we meet those two.
I highly recommend this book and can't wait for the next in the series. That will be a loooooong year of waiting. Thankfully I can just re-read all three already published books in the series.
Give it chance yourself.
November 20, 2025
Poignant and Romantic ❤️
RJ has once again delivered a joyful and romantic Christmas story with 'The Magic of Midnight.' This installment is part of The Wishing Tree series, all of which I've thoroughly enjoyed. It captures all the feels and holiday cheer, offering a sweet story about finding love when you least expect it.
Wesley and Hunter's story is an absolute festive delight and the epitome of a grumpy/sunshine romance. Hunter, an ex academic now coffee shop owner, is a veritable Scrooge. Next door lives Wes, a man who loves his failing bookshop, loves Christmas, harbours a huge unrequited crush on Hunter, and is struggling with his own heartache.
l loved the main characters. Despite Hunter's initial harsh treatment of Wes, there was an undeniable spark between them. As the author, RJ, reveals their past and inner thoughts, their connection slowly builds. It's a definite slow burn. The tenderness they share is beautiful as it blossoms into love. They came to know one another by discovering each other's strengths and vulnerabilities. Watching Hunter's bitter facade fall away as his love for Wes grows was incredibly moving. Wes has deep seated anxieties due to his family, however, as he sees Hunter rediscover his self confidence Wes begins to realise he should be proud of what he has achieved.
All in all this is a poignant and emotional story, that I will be recommend again and again. lt's a charming read, as Wes teaches Hunter about the heart of Christmas. I loved the found family theme, the Wishing Tree is just so magical. Can't believe I've got to wait a whole year for the next book.
RJ has once again delivered a joyful and romantic Christmas story with 'The Magic of Midnight.' This installment is part of The Wishing Tree series, all of which I've thoroughly enjoyed. It captures all the feels and holiday cheer, offering a sweet story about finding love when you least expect it.
Wesley and Hunter's story is an absolute festive delight and the epitome of a grumpy/sunshine romance. Hunter, an ex academic now coffee shop owner, is a veritable Scrooge. Next door lives Wes, a man who loves his failing bookshop, loves Christmas, harbours a huge unrequited crush on Hunter, and is struggling with his own heartache.
l loved the main characters. Despite Hunter's initial harsh treatment of Wes, there was an undeniable spark between them. As the author, RJ, reveals their past and inner thoughts, their connection slowly builds. It's a definite slow burn. The tenderness they share is beautiful as it blossoms into love. They came to know one another by discovering each other's strengths and vulnerabilities. Watching Hunter's bitter facade fall away as his love for Wes grows was incredibly moving. Wes has deep seated anxieties due to his family, however, as he sees Hunter rediscover his self confidence Wes begins to realise he should be proud of what he has achieved.
All in all this is a poignant and emotional story, that I will be recommend again and again. lt's a charming read, as Wes teaches Hunter about the heart of Christmas. I loved the found family theme, the Wishing Tree is just so magical. Can't believe I've got to wait a whole year for the next book.
November 7, 2025
Oh man, this book has it all. A not-to-put down book. Grab yourself your favourite beverage, chocolate and make yourself comfy with pillows and blankets. Shut the world out, you need to read this book.
I love going back to Wishing Tree. This is a great grumpy/sunshine story when there is so much more behind just being grumpy and sunshine-y.
It's very low angst, there is no drama for the sake of it.
Both men have been hurt in the past and have to rebuild their lives. Being cast aside by the people who should have loved them.
While Wesley wants what his friends have, love, a family, a partner, Hunter just wants to rebuild his academic career and get out of Wishing Tree as fast as he is allowed. A too cheery bookstore owner next door is not in the plan.
Wes is hiding his hurt and longings behind his stories and dreams, his bookstore must be amazing and his imagination has no end. Yes, he often acts before thinking but he honestly just sees the positives in his actions.
Hunter thinks he knows what he wants but the more Wes is morphing his way into his life, the more the doubts arrive. He is a thinker, a planner, the total opposite to impulsive Wes but that what makes them work and click. They balance each other.
What starts as fun slowly change when suddenly the feelings go deeper. Even when pasts and secrets are revealed, there is only care and love.
It's great to see the characters from the previous books again and I love the hint of the next one.
I love going back to Wishing Tree. This is a great grumpy/sunshine story when there is so much more behind just being grumpy and sunshine-y.
It's very low angst, there is no drama for the sake of it.
Both men have been hurt in the past and have to rebuild their lives. Being cast aside by the people who should have loved them.
While Wesley wants what his friends have, love, a family, a partner, Hunter just wants to rebuild his academic career and get out of Wishing Tree as fast as he is allowed. A too cheery bookstore owner next door is not in the plan.
Wes is hiding his hurt and longings behind his stories and dreams, his bookstore must be amazing and his imagination has no end. Yes, he often acts before thinking but he honestly just sees the positives in his actions.
Hunter thinks he knows what he wants but the more Wes is morphing his way into his life, the more the doubts arrive. He is a thinker, a planner, the total opposite to impulsive Wes but that what makes them work and click. They balance each other.
What starts as fun slowly change when suddenly the feelings go deeper. Even when pasts and secrets are revealed, there is only care and love.
It's great to see the characters from the previous books again and I love the hint of the next one.
November 26, 2025
In the festive town of Wishing Tree, Vermont, cinnamon‑roll bookseller Wesley has built a cozy life running his beloved bookstore, free from the suffocating expectations of his wealthy family. Next door, Hunter — a former history lecturer turned reluctant coffee shop owner — hides behind gruff pragmatism and emotional walls. When Wesley’s relentless cheer and holiday spirit collide with Hunter’s guarded reserve, sparks fly. Their banter and irritation slowly give way to stolen kisses, quiet moments, and a growing bond that feels touched by Christmas magic. But just as love begins to blossom, fate threatens to separate them. With snowflakes falling and Christmas drawing near, Wesley and Hunter must decide whether their connection can withstand the storm — and if they’re ready to embrace a happily ever after together.
I loved this story that blended romantic tension with holiday warmth, showing how love can thaw even the frostiest hearts. I loved that Wesley’s bookstore represented freedom — his escape from the suffocating expectations of wealth and family, but Hunter’s coffee shop symbolised duty via the inheritance he didn’t choose, binding him to responsibility and routine. I loved that this romance story was about choosing joy over fear, connection over isolation, and hope over resignation. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
I loved this story that blended romantic tension with holiday warmth, showing how love can thaw even the frostiest hearts. I loved that Wesley’s bookstore represented freedom — his escape from the suffocating expectations of wealth and family, but Hunter’s coffee shop symbolised duty via the inheritance he didn’t choose, binding him to responsibility and routine. I loved that this romance story was about choosing joy over fear, connection over isolation, and hope over resignation. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
November 4, 2025
What a fantastic book!
Who doesn't love a hot, grumpy professor/ barista and a perky, gorgeous bookstore owner getting their HEA?
Here's the thing though, there is so much more to these two.
Their pasts were not the greatest and their smiles or grumpy faces don't tell the whole story.
So much depth to these two...Wes and Hunter.
I love how they each saw behind the others masks to what was really going on. They didn't get angry when certain things are revealed, just loved each other through them.
The supporting characters were wonderful as well.
So much love and support from friends who became family and some from actual family.
As I have said in the past, I really love it when the author brings in characters from previous books that we have fallen in love with. I know I enjoy seeing how they are once their story is done and
what has happened in their lives as well. Kind of brings it full circle.
There is one relationship that I really connected with. Won't say which, let the reader figure it out.
Let's just say the admiration shown is VERY real and happens.
Who knows what future relationship might come out of this story.
Ok, I do because I read it already and I am just going to say, I am so excited and cannot wait to read their story.
Who doesn't love a hot, grumpy professor/ barista and a perky, gorgeous bookstore owner getting their HEA?
Here's the thing though, there is so much more to these two.
Their pasts were not the greatest and their smiles or grumpy faces don't tell the whole story.
So much depth to these two...Wes and Hunter.
I love how they each saw behind the others masks to what was really going on. They didn't get angry when certain things are revealed, just loved each other through them.
The supporting characters were wonderful as well.
So much love and support from friends who became family and some from actual family.
As I have said in the past, I really love it when the author brings in characters from previous books that we have fallen in love with. I know I enjoy seeing how they are once their story is done and
what has happened in their lives as well. Kind of brings it full circle.
There is one relationship that I really connected with. Won't say which, let the reader figure it out.
Let's just say the admiration shown is VERY real and happens.
Who knows what future relationship might come out of this story.
Ok, I do because I read it already and I am just going to say, I am so excited and cannot wait to read their story.
November 20, 2025
★彡 𝟓 𝐒𝐓𝐀𝐑𝐒 彡★
RJ Scott writes the best Christmas stories!
I loved reading Wesley and Hunter’s story. They both have had hard things to deal with in the past. Wesley was kicked out of his family for being gay many years ago and has made a life for himself in Wishing Tree. He has a sunny, playful personality that gets under Hunter’s skin. Hunter is recovering from a failed relationship and the after-effects, including the loss of a job that he loved. He is the grump to Wesley sunshine.
I loved how Wesley kept after Hunter and was finally able to get him to participate in the town’s holiday events. I also liked how this story started at Halloween and we got to see their relationship grow into something wonderful during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season.
The Magic of Midnight is a low-angst, emotional, slow-burn story that moved me to tears at times – just the way I like! The epilogue was wonderful as was the teaser for the next book in the series. I don’t want to wait until next Christmas to read it! ❤
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
RJ Scott writes the best Christmas stories!
I loved reading Wesley and Hunter’s story. They both have had hard things to deal with in the past. Wesley was kicked out of his family for being gay many years ago and has made a life for himself in Wishing Tree. He has a sunny, playful personality that gets under Hunter’s skin. Hunter is recovering from a failed relationship and the after-effects, including the loss of a job that he loved. He is the grump to Wesley sunshine.
I loved how Wesley kept after Hunter and was finally able to get him to participate in the town’s holiday events. I also liked how this story started at Halloween and we got to see their relationship grow into something wonderful during the Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season.
The Magic of Midnight is a low-angst, emotional, slow-burn story that moved me to tears at times – just the way I like! The epilogue was wonderful as was the teaser for the next book in the series. I don’t want to wait until next Christmas to read it! ❤
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request; my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
November 18, 2025
Third in series (Wishing Tree, Vermont), but can be read as a standalone. Small town. Neighbors. Grumpy/sunshine. Found family. Slow burn. Dual POV.
Bookstore owner Wesley has been crushing on his coffee shop owner neighbor for more than a year, but Hunter has plans to leave their small town as soon as he can. As Wesley keeps knocking on Hunter’s walls, can he give up his dreams of becoming a history professor at a large university if it means keeping the special joy of Wesley in his life.
Time is ticking down for Wesley to have a chance with Hunter, both men facing obstacles and hardships in their future plans, but Wesley continues his pursuit for Hunter’s affection so bravely and completely. Once they finally start something they both know might end, it is a sweet fall into the spirit of the holidays and finding joy and love. There are some cameos from the author’s other series which have created a found family to support Hunter and Wesley and a peek at some possible future characters that may find love. Overall a sweet holiday read.
Bookstore owner Wesley has been crushing on his coffee shop owner neighbor for more than a year, but Hunter has plans to leave their small town as soon as he can. As Wesley keeps knocking on Hunter’s walls, can he give up his dreams of becoming a history professor at a large university if it means keeping the special joy of Wesley in his life.
Time is ticking down for Wesley to have a chance with Hunter, both men facing obstacles and hardships in their future plans, but Wesley continues his pursuit for Hunter’s affection so bravely and completely. Once they finally start something they both know might end, it is a sweet fall into the spirit of the holidays and finding joy and love. There are some cameos from the author’s other series which have created a found family to support Hunter and Wesley and a peek at some possible future characters that may find love. Overall a sweet holiday read.
December 9, 2025
A fun, magical book with lots of laughs and a grumpy/sunshine pair finding love.
Despite his upbringing, Wes is a wonderfully lighthearted and happy man, he's creative and shares his love of reading with everyone.
On the surface, Hunter is a miserable grump who took over ownership of a coffee shop from a deceased uncle he never knew he had, and is only running it for the two years he absolutely has to before he can sell it. Underneath that grumpy exterior is a fragile and tender heart encased in ice that Wes will slowly melt away with his crazy enthusiasm and determination.
There is tension between them that shifts from an exasperated Hunter dealing with an excitable Wes, to two men who are growing unexpectedly closer as time is ticking away towards Hunter leaving.
I found myself smiling and laughing throughout this book, and captivated by the magical aspect of the holidays working on getting these two deserving men the HEA they both deserve.
Despite his upbringing, Wes is a wonderfully lighthearted and happy man, he's creative and shares his love of reading with everyone.
On the surface, Hunter is a miserable grump who took over ownership of a coffee shop from a deceased uncle he never knew he had, and is only running it for the two years he absolutely has to before he can sell it. Underneath that grumpy exterior is a fragile and tender heart encased in ice that Wes will slowly melt away with his crazy enthusiasm and determination.
There is tension between them that shifts from an exasperated Hunter dealing with an excitable Wes, to two men who are growing unexpectedly closer as time is ticking away towards Hunter leaving.
I found myself smiling and laughing throughout this book, and captivated by the magical aspect of the holidays working on getting these two deserving men the HEA they both deserve.
November 21, 2025
I loved this latest outing at Wishing Tree, this is a perfect feel good Christmas book, with found family and lots of love. Wesley is the lovely, cinnamon roll, sunshine owner of the book store and Hunter is the grumpy mcgrumpson who owns the coffee shop next door. We find out their back stories and how they ended up in Wishing Tree. The whole books is so festive feeling, with lots of hot chocolate and snow. You actually feel the cold! Smexy times and a HEA. Cannot wait for Rupert's story (Wesley's younger brother) with Adrian (the author) but have to wait for next Winter. Highly recommend a perfect, gentle story that makes you want to keep reading about the people in Wishing Tree. Really loved seeing Kai and Bailey again as they are a favourite couple.
November 19, 2025
Wishing Tree, Vermont sounds like the perfect place to live. Add in a Christmas romance of opposites attract (happy sunshine Wesley and grumpy Hunter) and small town with a feel of found family and we have a really nice day of reading. Although Wesley and Hunter are opposites they have similarities in their backgrounds. Both have had some rough times. Now we see these two slowly go from neighboring store owners to friends to lovers. Just as these two are figuring things out trouble comes calling. I had a very nice day laying about reading this new addition to the Wishing Tree series. Definitely recommend this book, series and author.
November 23, 2025
Opposites attract, grumpy vs sunshine
Wesley is the sweet, slightly chaotic bookstore owner.
Hunter is the grumpy, former professor, coffee shop owner counting down the days he can be free of the coffee shop he hates running.
Each is struggling with a painful past and their public personas are simply a facade to hide the hurt and anger.
I really enjoyed watching them navigate a slightly shaky friendship into something so much more.
Wonderful side characters and great growth from both characters.
Wesley is the sweet, slightly chaotic bookstore owner.
Hunter is the grumpy, former professor, coffee shop owner counting down the days he can be free of the coffee shop he hates running.
Each is struggling with a painful past and their public personas are simply a facade to hide the hurt and anger.
I really enjoyed watching them navigate a slightly shaky friendship into something so much more.
Wonderful side characters and great growth from both characters.
November 6, 2025
A wonderful grumpy/sunshine story filled with the magic of the holidays. Hunter and Wesley might seem like complete opposites, but it is what they bring to each other that makes them a strong couple. Figuring out what real connections and true love means not only to themselves but to those around them. Loved the characters, loved the storyline and this will be a great addition to any reader's holiday TBR.
December 2, 2025
Loved this story. I’m so glad that Hunter and Wesley were able together. It’s seems like this is kinda an opposites attract. Wesley owns a bookstore next door to Hunters coffee shop. Wesley tries to get Hunter not to take life serious all the time. Where Wesley is sweet and friendly Hunter is a grumpy Gus. I’m so glad that they had each other and were finally able to overcome every stumbling block put in their way. Definitely a one click.
November 11, 2025
I loved the joyous Wes Darkwood, the spinner of magical tales and owner of a welcoming friendly bookstore. He was the perfect match for the grumpy history professor next door who was forced into being a coffee shop owner to claim his inheritance. A wonderful tale of two wounded souls both heavily impacted by the decisions of others finding joy at Christmas and a HEA.
November 25, 2025
A Nice small town Christmas Story of a nice sunshine imaginative Bookstore owner and a Grumpy Cafe owner next door. Wesley is sweet and likes to talk and wants to befriend grumpy Hunter when he’s alone. Hunter’s not always nice but he apologizes afterwards, but eventually Wes gets through to Hunter and they become friends then more. So good?
November 18, 2025
Yay, this kicked off my holiday reads and it was the perfect opposites attract holiday romance. Oh I adored Hunter's grumpiness, and Wesley was just the absolute best cinnamon roll of a character. So much heart, great emotional stakes, and such a wonderful connection between these two!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews