It's Going to Be a Chrome Christmas

by Elise Gedicke

Cayden Russo is chasing redemption. Once known on the streets as Boost, he is cocky, reckless, and untouchable. The kind of man who could steal anything but his own freedom. Now he’s out on parole with four months left to prove he can live straight. No cops on his tail, no engines running hot, no slipping back into the shadows that nearly destroyed him...

Trixie Romero should know better than to hire a man like him. She inherited her Abuelo's luxury car and motorcycle business and has built it into an empire by keeping her hands clean and her heart locked tight. But Cayden is more than an ex-biker with scars and swagger. He’s temptation wrapped in oil and fire. She should keep her distance. Instead, she lets him in. First into her dealership, then into her bed, and finally, into the one place she swore no man would her heart.

But love doesn’t erase sins. And Cayden’s past doesn’t just knock at the door, it kicks it down. When enemies come for Trixie this holiday season, he has no choice but to drag her into his world of lies, vengeance, and blood. To protect her, he’ll burn the last of his freedom and embrace the darkness he tried to outrun.

This is a story of desire turned dangerous, passion born from ruin, and a man who will destroy everything in his path to claim the woman who makes him believe he’s worth saving.

356 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2025

About the author

I am a full-time RVer. I travel the country in my motorhome with my dog, Porthos. I enjoy reading, hiking, kayaking, biking, and camping. Follow me @elisegedickeauthor!

Reviews

[➦Paulette & Her Sexy Alphas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cayden Russo was formerly affiliated with the black Pythons MC, where he earned the nickname Boost, the finest car thief this side of the Mississippi. But that’s not the person Cayden is anymore. While crime is part of his history, he’s determined not to let it dictate his future. He grew up on the streets, but he’s committed to not ending his life there.
After spending two and a half years in prison for a crime he didn’t commit, Cayden now lives in a halfway house. One of the stipulations of his parole is that he must find and keep a job... The problem is that once people find out he’s an ex-biker, things usually go south for him... Still, he is focused on rebuilding his life, even when others doubt that he has changed… He was determined not to go back to prison and was willing to do whatever it took. The only issue was that some individuals might just test his limits.


Wow, Trixie has experienced a lot of heartache throughout the years, but she is truly a resilient little lady… she grew up in a house filled with males: her grandpa, dad, and four older brothers.

Both her father and grandfather had a passion for restoring classic cars, and they recognized Trixie's enthusiasm for cars as well.…
When Trixie’s grandfather passed away, he left his shop to his grandchildren, but only Trixie showed any interest in it.
I just adored Trixie; she was intelligent, had that Latina stubbornness, was ambitious, sassy, sexy… and she loved cars nearly as much as he did. What more could a man wish for?.......... Lol


I genuinely appreciated how the author gave the two main characters the space to nurture their relationship, leading to a charming Slow Burn.
On the other hand, I found the Thriller aspect to be somewhat lacking. I liked both elements of the book, but I didn't completely adore them, and I was a bit let down that the Thriller felt secondary. I hope that makes sense.

As you may know, this is a new author for me. Even though I pointed out that I felt the intricate details of this book were a little overshadowed, I still found it enjoyable and I'm looking forward to exploring more works by this author.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

2,5 stars.
The plot was quite solid and entertaining, but I did not like that the big conflict was resolved so quickly in just one chapter. It felt quite rushed compared to the rest of the book.

The FMC was decent in the beginning, but she quickly decided that the silent treatment was the perfect way to build a solid relationship and it ended up being quite tiring and repetitive to read her chapters.

[ALR · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cayden is looking to start over. After getting out of prison he is trying to live a new life, the life of ¨Cayden 2.0,¨ but it’s harder than he ever expected, especially when he can’t keep a job. As a former MC member and car thief extraordinaire he never thought he’d be able to be around cars again while on probation, so the opportunity to work at Romero´s, the best car shop around seems like a dream, that is until he meets Trixie, his ultimate dream come true. Trixie has always love cars. As the only girl surrounded by an all male, car loving family she excels in all aspects of car care, from the mechanical to the artistic angles. She heads her grandfather’s business and makes the shop even better than what it was in the past. The last thing she should be doing is hiring a former car thief, but Cayden steals a piece of her heart, right from the start. The attraction between these two is instantaneous but the heat between these too only grows as they spend more time with each other and their love starts to grow.

This book is a bit different from other MC stories by this author as Cayden is actively trying to stay away from his former MC life, that is until he gets pulled back in. The majority of the story though is while Cayden is not acting as a biker, but more about how he’s trying to reinvent himself. I like that this new version, Cayden 2.0, realizes that he doesn’t need the armor of his old life to live and that he alone is enough. Trixie is also a bit different compared to other female leads by the author. She’s the ultimate tomboy and strong enough all on her own, yet still soft enough to not be too jaded by the sadness that has touched her life. The heat between these two builds right from the start and soon the fire between them combusts, but even though the book is spicy (4/5 in intensity), their relationship is more than just the bedroom (and all the other rooms they like to use). They complement each other perfectly and accept the fact that each has some parts of their lives that are not picture perfect.

Now I admit that I am definitely not a car person by any means but this book is so much more that just that. There is a great redemption arc as well as a blend of high octane action and suspense, with a perfect hint of softness interspersed with heat. It does a great job of representing the hardships of staring over, for both characters, and the beauty of perseverance. While not a typical MC romance it is still a great read. I received an arc copy of this book from Books Sirens for my honest review. All thoughts are my own. 4 stars.

[Dankinia · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'd recommend this if you are in the mood for a spicy instant lust/love story about a former car thief on parole, the owner of a luxury vehicle business, and the path to redemption when their pasts intersect.

Overall, I rate it 4⭐out of 5 based on the following: 🤩Enjoyment - 4; 👥Characters - 4; 📖Plot - 4; 🗺️Atmosphere - 3.5; and🖋️Writing - 4 with the first 3 categories being most important.

What worked for me:
• Cayden's dedication to redeem himself for his past crimes for his own self-worth and Trixie.
• Trixie being unapologetically herself and how she puts aside her preconceived notions to give Cayden a chance even with his past.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Finished Reading
11/21/2025

[Neapolitan670 📚🖤 · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s a speedy Christmas 🏎️

Cayden, is in halfway house after serving time and trying to get on the straight and narrow. Unfortunately, as soon as his employers find out about his Incarceration they let him go. Until the owners of the halfway house introduce him to their adopted niece, who owns a prestigious car company. Cayden meets the owner, Trixie who inherited the business but is a hands on boss with the cars. Of course, the sparks fly for them both but it’s not all plain zooming, there is more to this story…

“ᴀɴᴅ ᴛʜᴀᴛ, ꜱᴡᴇᴇᴛʜᴇᴀʀᴛ, ɪꜱ ᴡʜʏ ɪ ᴡᴏɴ ᴛʜᴀᴛ ᴋɪꜱꜱ ꜰᴀɪʀ ᴀɴᴅ ꜱQᴜᴀʀᴇ.”

It’s a warming burn. Loved their relationship build up, the spice is spicing, the angst they both go through to their HEA.

[Rew E.]

4.5. STARS

Enjoyed Trixie and Cayden's journey to their HEA. After being released from prison, Cayden is determined to leave a life of crime behind. Working for Trixie and falling in love cements his determination. Cayden is determined and Trixie has reservations but somehow they find a middle ground.

This is a good read that I hoping turns into a series since there are several loose ends.

Well written with a good storyline, characters, and action.

[Lucia · Rating 5 out of 5]

Trixie is a young woman who, despite all the sadness that has marked her life, has managed to move forward with admirable strength. She finds happiness and peace running her family's auto repair shop, a place where she has always felt free, driven by her love of engines. However, fate decides that her life needs something more, and that something arrives in the form of an attractive ex-biker seeking redemption after his release from prison.

Cayden, for his part, has made many mistakes and paid a high price for them. But life isn't always easy, and now he's determined to become a better man. The opportunity to do so arises when he meets Trixie, a young woman who will become his reason to keep fighting and the hope for a future he's always dreamed of.

Their path is not easy. At first, Trixie is reluctant to get close to Cayden, afraid of suffering again. But little by little, he finds his way into her heart, demonstrating through his actions that he wants to change and be worthy of her. The tension between them grows, emotions intensify, and when they finally admit their feelings, Cayden's past resurfaces to test their love. Heartbroken, Cayden must make a difficult decision, a necessary one to settle his debts with the past and build a clean future with Trixie. She understands, even though it devastates her, because she knows that this time he truly seeks redemption.

It wasn't easy, but their love was stronger than any obstacle. Together they overcame all adversity, and in the end, they achieved the happiness they so richly deserved. Trixie found in Cayden the love and peace she had been missing, and Cayden found in her the redemption he had always sought. They complement each other perfectly.

I loved this book from beginning to end. It was a whirlwind of emotions, with deep and beautiful character development. Watching them open up to each other completely moved me. And the ending was simply perfect: an emotional conclusion for two characters who undoubtedly deserved their long-awaited happy ending. ❤️❤️❤️❤️

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Maelle C · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Going to Be a Chrome Christmas by Elise Gedicke is a story that blends action, emotion, and redemption beautifully. It’s part of the 25 Days of Christmas: Bikers and Mobsters world, but it definitely stands out on its own.

I really enjoyed this book — it’s got angst, tension, and a strong emotional core. Cayden Russo completely stole my heart. He’s such a complex character, carrying guilt and determination in equal measure, doing everything he can to prove he’s worthy of Trixie. Trixie herself is a strong and resilient heroine, and together they have amazing chemistry — raw, tender, and explosive all at once.

I guessed part of the plot twist early on, but I was still surprised when everything unfolded. The reveal turned out to be more intricate than I expected, which made me appreciate the story even more. The pacing focuses mainly on the growing connection between Trixie and Cayden, with the main action really kicking in around the last third of the book. There were a few slower moments where I was waiting for something big to happen, but overall the writing flowed smoothly and kept me engaged.

The secondary characters also added a lot of depth — each of them felt real and interesting, and I really hope we get to see some of their stories in future books.

In the end, It’s Going to Be a Chrome Christmas is a heartfelt, passionate romance about second chances, love, and the courage to start over. It’s emotional, intense, and perfect for readers who love a mix of danger, heart, and redemption.

[Mariaan Belinfante · Rating 5 out of 5]

A touching love story which I frankly enjoyed start to finish. Cayden Russo, out on parole, an ex member of the Black Python Mc, main motivation was redemption. Trixie owned the Romero dealership with exotic cars. The attraction was instant and electric, but both had trust issues and commitment phobias. I thought his declaration on his first day working for her, was quite special. The action amped up when her eldest brother got Cayden to infiltrate the Black Pythons undercover with a promise that his parole will not be revoked. With the shared love of exotic cars, interesting secondary characters, second changes, families reunited, found family and plenty of spice this book ticks a number of boxes and comes across as a realistic storyline. This was my 1st read by Elise Gedicke and I will definitely read more of her books.
I received an advanced review copy and leave this review voluntary Thank you BookSirens

[Alice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cayden is a reformed car thief just out of prison, determined to rebuild his life even when no one believes he’s changed. Beneath his tough exterior is a man who wants to do right, and watching him fight for a second chance is both raw and uplifting. Trixie’s life hasn’t been easy, but her courage and quiet strength shine through in every moment. Together, they bring out the best in each other — their chemistry feels natural, intense, and full of heart.

Elise is such a talented writer, and I’ll always jump at the chance to read her books. The pacing is spot on, the story hooks you from the start, and the characters feel so real it’s hard to let them go when the last page comes. I was lucky enough to receive an ARC copy, and thank goodness I did — this is an absolute must-read.

[Melanie · Rating 5 out of 5]

As usual this book was wonderful. Cayden and Trixie are what the other need. Lee carries such a burden for his family. So much pain and loss. It almost seems almost like the family is cursed. AJ lost so much and Lee carries the burden of the family. Hopefully Lee will find his person soon. The love that the Wynns hold in their hearts for each of the men gives each of them a chance for a fresh start.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Lynne Moore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cayden and Trixie had sparks flying from the first time they met. Common love of cars but with totally opposite ways of showing that passion. Still they were bound to ignite. Throw brothers, justice, thieves and completely evil people into their lives and it was an explosion of what to do and what was right. Loved this book for all the different characters and written by a great author in a way where you can't put the book down.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cayden

What an amazing ride! Elise Gedicke created a wonderful world. Betty owns a fancy car repair shop. Cayde, aka Boost, is on parole for stealing cars. Let's say there is so much more to the story. These two should be oil & and water, but they are a perfect pair. I can't only hope Elise continues this storyline because there are so many questions I need answered- does Lee stick around, does Bucky make it out, and does AJ get released?

[Kurtins R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this story. A little bit different from the her other stories but still worth the read.
Cayden after getting out of prison is actively trying to stay away from MC's and Trixie is more of a tom boy but is willing to give the ex con a chance.
great story will worth the read.

[Lisa Newton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trixie and Cayden are total relationship goals! Cayden, a former car thief fresh out of prison, and Trixie, who runs her family’s auto shop, are thrown together under some very interesting circumstances. Both are struggling with the weight of their pasts, but their chemistry is undeniable. Add in a few dangerous twists and turns, and you’ll be on the edge of your seat until the very end. A great story filled with tension, heart, and redemption. Highly recommend!

[Sue · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is redemption if you really want it. There's danger coming and it's not pretty. There's danger, heat and a HEA.

[Christyn P · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. This was so good!! Trixie and Cayden were so good together. Such deep characters, great plot with twists that kept the pages turning. Hot spice. And love. Just awesome.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

IT’S GOING TO BE A CHROME CHRISTMAS by Elise Gedicki is a contemporary adult, erotic, romance story line found in the multi-authored 25 DAYS OF MOTORCYCLES AND MOBSTERS series. This is twenty-seven year old former inmate and former MC member Cayden ‘Boost’ Russo, and twenty-five year old, mechanic Beatrix ‘Trixie’ Romero’s story line. IT’S GOING TO BE A CHROME CHRISTMAS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty.


NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers.


Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Cayden and Trixie) IT’S GOING TO BE A CHROME CHRISTMAS follows in the wake of the release from prison of our story line hero. Four months of probation finds Cayden struggling to find a job until his handlers introduce him to the woman with whom he will fall in love. Trixie Romero is a mechanic, who inherited her grandfather’s luxury car business, and hiring Cayden felt all kinds of wrong. A felon who knows how to work around security, Cayden is about to fall for his new boss but the past refuses to let go, and Trixie will discover the secrets and lies that broke her family apart.


The world building complex and detailed as Trixie must come to terms with her family’s secrets, and Cayden is determined to help take down the people who destroyed his life.


The relationship between Cayden and Trixie begins as employee and employer but their sexual attraction is immediate and intense.Trixie fears a broken heart, struggling to trust the man with whom she is falling in love but the past threatens any chance for a happily ever after, and Cayden finds himself facing down the demons from his past. the $ex scenes are intimate and provocative.


There is a large ensemble cast of diverse and energetic characters including several members of the Black Pythons MC; employees who for and with Trixie Romero, as well as extended family, law enforcement and memories from the past.


IT’S GOING TO BE A CHROME CHRISTMAS is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, power and control, retribution and trust, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is dramatic and edgy; the romance is seductive; the characters are charismatic and dynamic.


copy supplied for review

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book delivers on hot chemistry, sparks and angst. It is intriguing, intense and enthralling with a hot romance and thrilling suspense. Cayden is a former car thief out on parole who is determined to turn his life around. He has new dreams for his future that include a committed relationship with a woman who won’t hold his past against him. When Cayden meets Trixie, he believes he has found his dream girl. She is a fellow motor head, not afraid to get her hands dirty and has a body he would love to explore. Though she also feels an instant attraction to Cayden, Trixie is determined to keep her guards up, especially after learning he ran with the Black Pythons MC who are notorious car thieves. She doesn’t want him around her luxury car and motorcycle restoration and repair shop, even if she is intrigued by him. Her grandfather’s best friend, who she thinks of as an uncle, and his wife encourage her to give Cayden a chance despite his past. When Cayden shows her that he can be a valuable asset to her business, Trixie does decide to give him a chance and employs him. The heat between them escalates and keeping their hands off of each other proves to be very difficult. Soon they are thinking in terms of longterm and commitment. Unfortunately, his past comes back to haunt him and he is put in an impossible position, one that puts both him and Trixie in peril.

I love the complexity of these characters. They touch my heart, make me laugh, cry and sigh, as well as enthrall me. I admire Cayden’s drive to redeem himself, to do and be better, especially after Trixie enters his life. I love his sense of humour, his sexy swagger and his expert skills in flirtation and dirty talk. Trixie is a boss lady with her own swagger and presence. She has faced discrimination and criticism in the workplace, but has proven her skills and held her own. She lives her life authentically with grace, confidence and heart. She stands by Caden when his past catches up with him, and doesn’t lose faith or trust in him. Trixie and Cayden just mesh so well together. Their well deserved happily ever after just makes me smile

This compelling book has my wholehearted recommendation.

[Grinning Cat · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love Elise Gedicke’s writing because she has a gift for writing characters. Each character is layered and unique. Caden is an ex-con on parole. He was a car thief and is trying to stay away from the MC that he stole the cars for. Trixie’s the owner of an auto shop that specializes in luxury and vintage cars. The collection alone is enough to make Caden drool. And so is Trixie.

Caden and Trixie are fire. That’s the simplest way to put it. To expand, their banter and chemistry are top notch. I think that I would love to sit and have a cuppa with them, because they are intriguing, likable people and very real.

Book is SAFE.

Triggers include theft, violence, and the risk of drooling over the fantasy cars.

Tropes include He Falls First, Ex-Con, Workplace Romance, Hot+Plot Balance, Baby You Can Drive My Car, Undercover Lover.

[Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Trixie knew what it took to be accepted in a man's occupation. Taking over her father's and grandfather's luxury car company. Her working repairing cars isn't what's expected for a woman to be covered in oil and dirty. But it gave her a sense of completeness knowing she was carrying on her families heritage. Cayden was finally released, ok it's too a halfway house. But four more months and he'd be totally free. He'd also be leaving behind the MC club he'd been a part off. Never did he expect to find a woman so different, yet perfect for him Except his past wasn't really that far away. Could he make a clean break or would it come knocking. Would it put her in danger. Sit back and enjoy this spicy fresh start romance. Or is it

[Darcy · Rating 5 out of 5]

The blurb for this book does not do it justice for what's actually packed inside. Cayden has been in prison and has six months left of residing in a halfway house when he meets Trixie. He is determined to turn his life around and not return to his old ways of boosting high end cars even though he is good at it. Trixie's company specializes in one of a kind cars and goes out of her comfort zone to hire Cayden. After suffering so much loss in her life, she is hesitant to get involved with Cayden. As they get closer to his freedom, they can finally begin to imagine their lives together without restrictions. That is until the past puts everything in jeopardy. Amazing story of Cayden's struggle to keep within the rules and redeem himself.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cayden and Trixie totally stole my heart. Cayden's this bad boy ex-car thief and MC member trying to go straight and make it through his parole, then he bumps into Trixie. She's a good girl with some abandonment issues, running a fancy auto mechanic shop and dealership.

These two just explode off the page. Trixie shows Cayden how to live life without crime and gangs, and Cayden teaches her how to love and that it's okay to trust him.

I loved this book so much, and it really shows off Elise Gedicke's writing talent again.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cayden is out of prison and ready to turn over a new leaf. Little does he know his dream job and girl are on the horizon. Trixie is everything that Cayden needs.

Trixie is a tomboy raised around cars and the guys in the shop. She's no push over.

I love their interactions and how hard Cayden is trying to improve himself. Not for Trixie, but for himself.

This is not like other MC books that Elise Gedicke's wrote. Cayden is trying to stay away from his MC and do the right thing to keep him out of jail. I love some of the secondary characters too and I hope that Elise writes their books too!!!

[GKP2460 · Rating 5 out of 5]

It's Going To Be A Chrome Christmas is part of the 2025 25 Days Of Christmas: Bikers And Mobsters world. This is Cayden Russo and Trixie Romero's story.
It's a great, fast-paced story that'll keep you glued to the pages from beginning to end. Cayden and Trixie are completely explosive together and the banter between them is so funny at times. Trixie is a force to be reckoned with and Cayden is the perfect one to tame her a little. I'm still a bit curious about AJ though so hopefully he'll get his story told soon.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cayden is trying to leave his past behind and build a new future after prison. But he can’t seem to get a start because of people judging him for his past. Until a feisty Trixie Romero gives him a chance. They spark instantly and their heat burns hotter as their relationship grows. Loved Trixie and her fight to be respected in what is seen as the man’s world of cars. This story also was packed with emotion, perseverance, and heart. I loved every moment. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Glenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing!

It was refreshing to read about a strong female main character. Trixie was a gearhead mechanic who was running her family's auto business.
Cayden was an excon on parole for stealing cars.
Sparks fly the first time they meet. It was great to see a guy love that his girl was all about the cars.
This book was about how family shapes the person we become and how it effects every aspect of our lives.
This was a must read book, with surprises, mystery, crime, and love, rolled into one fantastic package.

[Jenni · Rating 5 out of 5]

Cayden earned a reputation as a car thief with the BPMC but now hes got a chance on parol to change he just needs to find and keep a job, he ends up hired by Trixie whose taken on her grandfathers classic cars and bike shop, but his past doesnt stay where it should and when it targets Trixie hes choices could lead him to the place he didn't want to return. Well written engaging steamy desires drama action and more

[Stacie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I could not put this novel down! I am a fan of this author and she did not disappoint! I loved how unique Trixie was and how she did not follow any stereotypes. Cayden had a unique backstory and his “armor” was so imaginative. His sacrifices for his redemption were noble but it broke my heart a little. For two people who never did relationships they sure seemed to learn fast. Overall a great stand alone MC story!

[Vivien Richards · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very good story about Cayden, who used to be part of a motorcycle club gang and then was put in prison. He recently got out on parole and gets a new job. He works with Trixie at her motorcycle and car business. When his past returns and the awful threat to Trixie occurs, he dives back into his past just to protect her. I loved Cayden, how alpha and protective he was of her. I really loved this story.