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Christmas with the Boss

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Mistletoe, magic, and a little bit of make-believe.

There’s no place like home for the holidays…unless you’re with my family. Things are bound to be awkward this year with my older sister bringing a plus one—who also happens to be my ex.
And as if this Christmas couldn’t get any bluer, my boss is somehow mistaken for my boyfriend. Yes, John Barrington. The man who absolutely hates my guts.

To save face, and my dignity, in front of everyone, I must play along with this fake relationship. But something’s different away from work. Call it holiday spirit, or a change of heart, but I’m starting to think John was never the man I thought he was. Now suddenly, this ruse is feeling more and more real.

Things are about to get complicated—both in and out of the office—but what’s Christmas without a couple miracles?

Cozy up with this heartwarming and holiday-fueled romance from USA Today’s bestselling author Melissa McClone, where a financial planner and her employer must pull off the ultimate Christmas charade. Tropes include fake dating, office romance, boss/employee, cheating ex dating her golden child sister, family drama, and a diva cat.

223 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2024

43 people are currently reading
77 people want to read

About the author

Melissa McClone

287 books2,478 followers
I live in the Pacific Northwest with my husband, two daughters, son, dog and too many cats! I write "sweeter" contemporary romance novels for Harlequin and Tule Publishing.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Emily Pennington.
20.8k reviews362 followers
December 29, 2024
The True Spirit of Christmas . . .

Abby Sinclair, talented financial consultant, had hoped going into work on December 24 would be a happy one for her… but with everyone celebrating what was coming the next day, her negative triggers are all firing at once. She is not looking forward to spending those two days with her family, but her mother already heard about the power outage at her apartment, so she has no excuse this time not to go home for the holidays, even though she is not ready to deal with all the drama. She’s tired of hearing about her older sister Rachel’s fancy job, her boyfriend Jake whom she had stolen from Abby, and the perfect life she lives. They actually celebrated Rachel’s happiness when she stole Abby’s cheating boyfriend after he and Abby had just looked at engagement rings, telling Abby to “just get over it”! Now a co-worker tells her the boss wants to talk to her -- the grouchy one who hates her. What did she do this time? Her coworkers already have bets on how soon she will be fired. She was even thinking about joining in on the betting. It already feels like work must have ended by now… but it’s only 9 a.m.

Mr. Barrington (“John”) asks Abby why she came in early… was she behind in her work? So she told him about the power outage and that she had been freezing in the dark since 3 a.m. And actually, she is ahead on her work schedule. She was surprised when he asked if she has a place to spend the holidays now since she has no heat or electricity. He dismisses her when she says she will be with her family. Huh, is that all he wanted to ask? But when she returns to her desk, her cat dashes out the door and climbs a Christmas tree which now has fallen to the floor, covering her in tinsel. Her boss chuckles and tells her to clean it up as he returns to his office, bemoaning the fact that despite having an MBA from Harvard, he just can’t seem to get over his crush and talk to Abby! And things can actually still get worse when Abby’s car dies in the parking lot on Christmas Eve. Since her parents’ house is on the way to his grandparents’, he offers her a ride. Although afraid to talk to her one-on-one, he can’t let her sit here in a snowstorm stranded and cold. They arrive at her parents and he insists on carrying her things inside as her mother calls to her father that Abby has arrived with her boyfriend! Abby is speechless, but her mother refers to them as lovebirds and ushers him in for cocoa. Abby whispers for him to leave, that she will explain to her parents. But he insists on staying with her. Even her cat would prefer not to be here, however! And when her dad asks how they got together, he made up a beautiful, romantic, sweet fictional story about the two of them -- claiming he knew right then Abby was the only one for him -- just as Rachel and Jake walked in. Rachel tried to embarrass John but he was in full control and brought up Abby’s impeccable professionalism. Her mother immediately tried to turn the “spotlight” on Rachel’s promotion. She brags, then tries to discuss the scandal his own relationship with her sister must have caused. But he deftly turns it around on her, effortlessly protecting Abby. While Abby is expected to prepare the food in the kitchen, Rachel continues to sit on the couch and brag about her endless qualities, over and over again. Then John joins Abby in the kitchen (having had enough of “The Rachel Show” as he calls it), asking if he can help with the food, and complimenting her on how amazing she is both here and at her job. And when Jake says to hurry up, they’re hungry, John offers to spill gravy on him! John and Abby head up for bed when Rachel and Jake become engaged and obnoxious. The cat growls when John sits too close to Abby, walks up to Abby and covers her with her scent, marking her ownership. When the cat then approaches John, he is stunned and apprehensive when Powerfluff sniffs his hand, butts her head against him, and purrs! This is a first, and they continue to share their favorite Christmas stories while settled on the bed. Will he take her to meet his grandparents where she would be accepted without hesitation as part of the family? Will she find out what love of family should truly be like? After all, Powerfluff has already shown them how easily it can happen!
Profile Image for Christi.
1,169 reviews36 followers
December 20, 2024
“Mistletoe, magic, and a little bit of make-believe” perfectly encapsulates Christmas with the Boss, a fake boyfriend Christmas charade that gives all the amazing holiday vibes and more. John has been smitten with Abby for months but can’t say anything because he’s her boss. Unforeseen circumstances have them spending the holidays together with their respective families, who couldn’t be more different.

I adored John’s family so much! It reminded me of Christmases with my family before my grandparents passed away, which actually brought tears to my eyes. They are so sweet, genuine, and the family dynamic that so many of us dream of.

Abby’s family is ridiculous and the complete opposite. I cannot imagine being a parent and not recognizing the over-the-top favoritism shown to one daughter compared to the other, and don’t even get me started on her sister and her boyfriend. She’s a real piece of work! All the scenes with them were grating at best, and seeing John speak up made me fall in love with his character.

One of my favorite aspects was Powerfluff, the diva of all cats, which was an adorable addition to the narrative. I used to have a dog that gave off this exact energy, so seeing this cat ruling the roost was all the more charming and real for me.

I truly loved this book, but the over-the-top Hallmark ending kind of ruined it for me. It felt like saccharine on top of saccharine, and call me a cynic, but this just doesn’t happen in real life. I was hoping for a more real and authentic ending, as these characters felt so real to me, but I know many people love a good HEA, and this one does deliver.

Despite my disappointment at the end, I loved this novel. I practically read it in one sitting and caught myself smiling, growling, and sighing all the way through. It’s the perfect Christmas novel to cozy up with amid all the hustle and bustle and is a great reminder of what Christmas is really all about.

*I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book which I received from the author/publisher through BookSprout. All views and opinions expressed are completely honest, and my own.
1,009 reviews34 followers
December 30, 2024
The only thing Abby finds harder to deal with than her new boss, John, is her family, to whom she's always come a distant second to her 'perfect' sister. So escaping the office which has a pool on when she'll be fired isn't so exciting when it means a mandatory family visit. But when her car breaks down and John offer her a lift to her family's house on the way to his own family Christmas, her initial reluctance fades as she actually gets to know him. And when her family greets him as her boyfriend - and an unbelievably desirable boyfriend - and he doesn't correct them, things get even more interesting. Will a Christmas spent together make her still more desperate to quit - or show her what home can really be like?

A delightful heart-warming Christmas read, suitable for all year round! Watching these two gradually come together is delightful. John's initial attitude is understandable but misguided, and I loved the way he changed once he realised the impact it was having on her. And while her family is truly (I hope unbelievably, but unfortunately probably not) horrible, John's family forms a beautiful contrast and is amazingly welcoming. The result is a great read, full of heart but with plenty of light-hearted fun too. It also does a good job of dealing with the boss-employee relationship side of things. All in all, if you want to get into the Christmas spirit, or don't want to leave it, this is a great read - and if you just want a story that will leave you feeling good, it's great year-round. Recommended.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Smadma.
251 reviews1 follower
December 17, 2024
I loved this Christmas story about John and Abby. Abby is an excellent financial consultant who is convinced that her boss hates her as he is very hard on her and her colleagues have a bet going as to when she will be fired. Unbeknownst to her, it is the opposite in that her boss, John, is enamoured with her and afraid that his true feelings will show if he isn’t demanding. Thankfully fate steps in and the two of them get to know each other and in this process, Abby learns her worth and that not people areas awful as her family who offer no support and treat her poorly. This is a wonderful story as the two of them learn about each other and themselves.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Eileen.
2,696 reviews
December 28, 2024
Christmas with the Boss by Melissa McClone is a sweet, heartwarming, holiday story that includes a mistaken/fake boyfriend, sharing one bed, he’s her boss, and found family. Abby, a financial consultant is convinced that her new boss hates her as he is very hard on her. Her colleagues even have a bet going as to when she will be fired. Unbeknownst to her, it is the opposite in that her boss, John, is crazy about her and afraid that his true feelings will show if he isn’t demanding. When Abby’s car refuses to start, during a snow storm, John offers to give her a ride. Abby is going to her parents’ home for the holidays; which she is dreading. Abby’s parents mistake John for her boyfriend; which he’s only too happy to play. After seeing how her family overlooks Abby, John takes her to meet his crazy family: a family filled with love, laughter, and fun; the complete opposite of hers. As Abby and John get to know each other better, John helps Abby see how important she truly is and does not deserve the poor treatment her family gives her. Through holiday magic, John and Abby find themselves on a journey to forever together; along with the diva Powerfluff, Abby’s cat.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
3,650 reviews17 followers
December 28, 2024
Abby thought her new boss John was like her awful family where she couldn’t do anything right and she was considering other employment when after her car breaks down he offers to drive her to her family for Christmas, who assumes they are dating. Her sister was so selfish and her mom couldn’t see how badly she was treating Abby but his family sounds wonderful with their creative party games and simple joy in thoughtful gifts. Abby and John’s fake relationship develops into real feelings but they still have plenty of issues to work through. I loved her tree climbing cat with an attitude. There were plenty of funny, head shaking, and sweet moments in this kisses only holiday romance.
2,688 reviews19 followers
December 20, 2024
I was looking for the perfect Christmas book to read and I found it in this book.  It was full of humor, joy, and abounded with hope, love, and the spirit of Christmas.  It was filled with hot cups of cocoa, ice skating, and other romantic dates.  I really liked Abby and her boss, Mr. Barrington.  He was a breath of fresh air in Abby's life.  It was funny how they decided to fake date when they were visiting Abby's family.  I also enjoyed Abby's cute cat, Powerfluff.  I received an advance copy of this book and I willingly chose to write an honest  review.
866 reviews8 followers
December 31, 2024
This author writes a great holiday story. The book as a lot of the typical holiday activities but also shows that not everyone is blessed with a great family. The story made me grateful for my family. The book is a fast read and the perfect escape for the holiday season. I felt invested in the characters from the start and was pulling for them to work things out. I really like the style of writing by this author and am always happy to read one of her stories. I received an advance copy and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Pansy.
2,203 reviews24 followers
February 14, 2025
Totally sweet romance

If you follow my reviews, (Really? Why?) you may have noticed I tend toward the more erotic romances. But every once in a while a sweet one, or three, will sneak in. It also hit more than one of my favorite tropes. Pretend romance, work place romance, millionaire (maybe even billionaire) romance, and slow burn/he falls first. Throw in personal growth for both of the featured characters, and we have a couldn't-put-it-down read that kept me reading half the night. There is a reason I read this author on occasion. She writes a good story!
Profile Image for Sarah Freilinger.
329 reviews11 followers
March 8, 2025
I love this story. I know it is a little late for a Christmas story, but I am behind on my reading. And even though it is a holiday story, I still think you will enjoy it. Abby and John have started their love story on a uneven path. He is posing as her boyfriend to save face before her dysfunctional family. He stands up for her when no one else will.
He has had a crush on her since July, but can't figure out how to show his feelings without compromising her job. He is the boss...

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
54 reviews2 followers
December 19, 2024
This was an entertaining read. Great for relaxing over the holiday season, Abby and John make a great couple. This was an enjoyable story that was relatively low on angst regarding the relationship, but may be emotionally triggering due to the Abby’s dysfunctional family dynamics. Great choice for a relaxing holiday read to distract from the hustle and bustle of the Christmas obligations.

I received a complimentary copy of this book via Booksprout, and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

1,608 reviews9 followers
December 22, 2024
I fell in love with John and Abby's story. It is sweet, entertaining, funny, witty, and so much more. From the moment I picked it up I was drawn their journey. This book will for sure put you into the holiday spirit. It will also keep you turning page after page until you are finished. Be prepared to laugh out loud because you will not be able to hold it in.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,277 reviews149 followers
December 28, 2024

Christmas With The Boss by Melissa McClone was the perfect book for this holiday season, a nice and quick read.

John is Abby's boss, he is really strict and tries to keep his distance because he doesn't want to show his infatuation for her. When they have to fake a relationship and stay in the same house due to a snowstorm, lines start to blur, with the result of sharing more than the same bed.

I was instantly on Abby's side, her family members are mean with her, they don't appreciate her. Fortunately this Christmas she has John on her side, who makes her see how valuable she really is. John wasn't my favourite at the beginning, but he redeemed himself supporting Abby, bringing her at his family's home, making her enjoy the holidays for the first time in years.

I would recommend this book to everyone who is in the mood to snuggle down during a cold Winter day for some good time with an enjoyable story.


Copy kindly provided by the Publisher/Author.

2,254 reviews12 followers
December 24, 2024
Christmas with the Boss

Abby and John have such a wonderfully fun story. John has been brought into the company to turn it around and make it profitable. Abby thinks her boss hates her because he is such a tyrant so she has applied to other firms in anticipation of being fired. Then Christmas break happens and he is mistaken for her boyfriend when she goes home for Christmas. He surprises her by going with the story. What happens when the fake becomes wanting it to be real?
Profile Image for Cindy y.
166 reviews
December 24, 2024
This was a fun Christmas book. I was cheering for John to lighten up, be a better boss, and to finally tell Abby he had feelings for her. I also wanted Abby to get a backbone and stand up to her ridiculous family. I was glad when it finally happened!
This is a sweet story, a misunderstanding of identity which turns into fake dating, which turns into a real romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Vic.
417 reviews
December 30, 2024
This is an office romance that has a rocky start. John is the new boss at the office and finds himself attracted to Abby and is gruff around her. They get stuck together on Christmas eve and start a fake relationship. Soon their feelings show and they start a real relationship. A fun holiday office romance with lots of family drama and Abby gaining confidence.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Mindy Lopez.
2,313 reviews13 followers
January 4, 2025
This is an off limits, grumpy vs sunshine romance between Abby and her boss, John. These likeable souls and the unique plot make for an enjoyable read. What starts out as a fake relationship turns into something more. It is a captivating love story with drama and steam, sexual tension and chemistry, family dynamic, and engaging secondary characters. Entertaining holiday romance.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for  The Flipped Page (Susan K).
1,852 reviews39 followers
January 15, 2025
Sweet, contemporary office romance

Romance, sweet, contemporary, office; stand alone read
Abby and John’s story was a lovely sweet fall. Loved he was attracted to her from the beginning. Abby’s sad family dynamics were so disheartening. Loved John’s defense of Abby and his sweet care of her on their road trip. The fake relationship became the loveliest fall for them both.
Lovely read by Mm
1 review
November 14, 2025
A beautiful comforting story

I rarely leave a review and with that being said I absolutely adored this story BUT I wanted to strangle Rachel & Ms. Sinclair (Abby’s sister & mom). The way they treated her had my blood boiling (shoot I was furious for her AND IT’S JUST A CHARACTER 🤦🏼‍♀️) but I was so proud of her for standing up for herself. A lovely Christmas read. Nice and comforting
263 reviews1 follower
December 16, 2024
I loved this one!!!!!

So cute. And sweet. And so hilarious!!!

Definitely a must read!!

🌲 Fake Dating
🌲 Forced Proximity
🌲 He's her boss
🌲 Found Family

John's character reminds me so much of my husband - his care, protectiveness and the shelter he brings to Abby's life.

Thank you Melissa for a copy of your book. This is my genuine review.
Profile Image for Nethanja.
844 reviews9 followers
December 19, 2024
She has enough, she wants to be appreciated for who she is but after her family who is totally indifferent now her boss can’t stand her. She needs a new start. She doesn’t expect a broken car will change her life.
This is for one part heartbreaking but it builds to a heartwarming future. I really enjoyed it.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,225 reviews38 followers
December 31, 2024
A fun and sweet fake holiday romance. The main characters come from very different family lives which makes for an interesting storyline. You'll be rooting from their happy ending as the emotion will pull your heart strings. Great character growth and a well written, entertaining read. I really enjoyed it.

6,153 reviews30 followers
January 1, 2025
Just the book I needed…

Nothing was holding my attention, then I read this book. It was sweet, funny, had a cat named Powerfluff…perfect!

Abby is a tiny bit grinchy this year. Family drama. Her boss, John Barrington with his model good looks is adorably awkward and smitten with Abby. He’s good with numbers but Abby is even better. He’s charming and a fab book boyfriend.
Recommend.
286 reviews3 followers
January 5, 2025
outrageous

Abby’s family is the worst hut luckily her boss John, whose been crushing on her for months, is there to save the day with husband, fun and generous family. Abby’s family is seriously awful. John is also an orphan and rich, so lots of tropes but the characters are sweet and it’s an easy read
Profile Image for Kathleen Shaputis.
Author 12 books23 followers
January 14, 2025
Sweetest of Stories

Okay, it's the middle of January but I had a rough holiday season, so imagine my surprise when this delightful book made me smile and laugh. Exactly what I needed, a dysfunctional family and a strong main character! Thank you, Ms. McClone, for this delicious cup of hot cocoa on a dreary day.
Profile Image for Kay.
261 reviews1 follower
January 16, 2025
Christmas with the Boss was a very cute holiday read. It was easy to get through and readers could really feel the holiday spirit

While I enjoyed the holiday feel of this book and it was nice to have two people who could communicate, there was no real conflict. It felt like something was missing.
Profile Image for Katelyn.
3 reviews
December 18, 2025
The perfect Christmas read. Easy to read, full of great character dynamics, and genuinely fun. I loved the first-person perspective and watching the characters grow as the story unfolded. The fake-dating-to-lovers trope was done so well, and the sassy cat with a spot-on judge of character completely won me over.
Profile Image for juliana.
117 reviews2 followers
December 20, 2024
Abby & John OMG THIS WAS ACTUALLY SO CUTEEE

her family OMGGG they do have problems, they are a bunch of bitches I hate them, she deserves so much better and I’m happy she realized that at the end.

His family is perfect and they love her and that’s what she deserves 😭

John is a cutie 🥹
1,491 reviews19 followers
December 22, 2024
awkward
Poor Abby, could christmas get any more awkward than this year? Fortunately John´s family is more like a family you would wish for and when fake turns to real, who wouldn´t enjoy reading about a HEA for a christmas miracle?
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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