Tangled Up in You

Evergreen Valley Holidays #3

by Shannon O'Connor

A self sufficient single mom, her hot single neighbor, and a little holiday magic.

Tessa is determined to get through the holiday season with smiles on her kids faces. With a fresh divorce, a new town, and their first Christmas without their parents together the least Tessa can do is give them the best Christmas they dreamed of. That is until she falls off the roof hanging Christmas lights and breaks her arm. Now the self sufficient single mom must ask for help in the form of her hot single neighbor.

Parker never believed in love at first sight until she laid eyes on Tessa. Determined to get the single mom to look her way, she’s there to help no matter what. Things may be lighting up between them, but will Tessa unplug their romance?

Join Parker and Tessa as they get tangled up this holiday season with a little bit of love.


Tangled Up in You is a Femme/Femme, Single Mom, Love after divorce, Neighbors to Lovers Sapphic romance novella set in Evergreen Valley, Connecticut. It is set in the same town as the Evergreen Valley series but can be read entirely on its own.

Genres: Christmas, Novella, Femme Femme, LGBT, Lesbian, Contemporary, Lesbian Romance

144 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 1, 2025

About the author

Shannon O’Connor is a twenty something, bisexual, self published poet of several books and counting. O’Connor enjoys life’s simple pleasures: coffee, reading, traveling, and spending time with her new baby. O’Connor is continuously working on new poetry projects, book reviews, and more, while also diving into motherhood. She loves supporting local indie authors & shops as much as possible.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shans...

Reviews

[Juniper L.H. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well this was basically a perfect holiday novella. It hit all the main points that you would want it to and did a good job doing it. The content-to-page-count ratio was perfect; you didn’t get the development of a full-length novel but you shouldn’t expect that anyways. It did a wonderful job with the pages at its disposal.

This was more of a romance story than a Christmas story, so ill say that if you specifically just want to mainline Christmas themes and cheer into your veins then this might not be your top pick, but there was plenty of Christmas magic in the background.

This Novella Had (minor context but probably Spoilers):
-Referential enough to the prior connected novel that it was interesting and made you want to read it if you haven’t, YET not so interconnected that you would feel lost or confused if you haven’t read the other one. Perfect.
-Excellent single-mom romancing and seduction tropes.
-A lovely depiction of someone moving to a snowy cold weather place and not being prepared. We LOVE that stuff for some reason.
-Self-aware mom who refuses to force her older child to become an automatic babysitter.
-Snow shovelling flirting. Nice.
-Dino Nuggets.
-Mediocre-man hating.
-Cooking dinner for you flirting.
-So darn respectful!
-Upcycling books into crafts.
-I smiled like an idiot at 48%.
-Communication??? What a wild concept. Other protagonists should read this novella for tips.
-Spicy, Spicy.
-Watching all of the Christmas Bobs Burgers episodes, which resonated with me as each October I watch all the Halloween Simpsons episodes.

-Christmas Lights…. Being clever.

Nitpicking:
-The characters insta-lusted and couldn’t stop thinking about each other just a littttttle bit too easily for me. So much impact from such a short interaction; I like it when it builds a little bit more.
-There was THAT much trash talk before they played Monopoly and we didn’t find out who won???
-Some random typos and formatting things, but this IS an ARC so its all good.

Thank you to BookSirens for providing a free ARC. This honest review was left voluntarily.

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 4 out of 5]

A sweet, heart-melting romance you won’t want to put down

What a sweet romance this is. I really enjoyed the storyline—when Parker meets Tessa and feels that immediate pull toward her, she does everything she can to get Tessa’s attention… not in a creepy way, but in the most endearing, adorable way possible.

The connection between Tessa and Parker is so cute and heartwarming. Their relationship unfolds beautifully, and I found myself completely absorbed from beginning to end. The tenderness, the gentle longing, and the natural ease between them made this such a delightful read.

I absolutely adored Tessa’s kids, Natalie and Drew. What beautiful children they are—so sweet, enchanting, and full of personality. They added charm and warmth to the story in the best ways.

Another great book by Shannon. I’m excited to see what comes next in the Evergreen Valley series!

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥

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

[Lara · Rating 4 out of 5]

sweet bi 4 bi romance

Great characters. And their romance was so sweet. Loved the kids, too. Loved that Parker really sought ways to be helpful, not just pursuing.

[Joann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this story of Tessa and Parker. I love instant Chemistry books. Maybe it was a little quick of falling for each other, but I do not care. I am all about stories like that. It was a quick easy read with romance, caring and some serious hotness. All the things I can live with. Definitely worth the time to read.

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 3 out of 5]

A short story so the attraction is fast. Also, just divorced from husband, no shared (to the reader or future love interest) that she is bi (authors words later) and the neighbour (love interest) is hitting on her. So far not a fan... Also having to remind an adult they have to change their underwear should be grounds for divorce, not waiting for him to ask. The ex husband, as you will gather is not one of the good guys!
I still find one main a bit pushy but the author mainly answers this.... mainly. One persons persistence is another's ignoring your wishes. With persistence come intimacy and, personal taste here but I am pulled out by a particular request. Which is a shame as up that point the scene was good for me. There then follows quite a few hot scenes that unfortunately also had elements that made it not good for me. Just to clarify, others will adore this, nothing wrong with the book. If you are looking for instahot this should fit the bill.

[Georgie · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute novella, loved the kids (and dog!), they were great side characters. I thought the relationship between our FMCs was lovely, with both being respectful of the other's time, life and commitments, etc. Loved the acts of service Parker did to woo Tessa, and how there was a lot of character in this novella. A sweet sapphic read to curl up with around Christmas, and the snowy season!

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

[Dulaine Roode · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a light-hearted extension of the b*tch who stole Christmas. We saw parts of this book happening in the other book.

While Parker was wooing Tessa, her neighbour, and taking care of her after she broke her arm, Jax and El were doing their own wooing in the other book.

Parker and Tessa have an instant attraction towards each other, but Tessa is reluctant to pursue it, seeing that she just got divorced from a man-child. Parker becomes a stand-in parent without the kids knowing about it, really.

I love the dynamic between them.

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

[Michael Wells · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tessa has just come from a divorce and started as new job. Parker is her next-door neighbor. The plot is how they get together along with Tessa's two children. Tessa is very self-sufficient while parker is very outgoing. This is a very sweet love story.

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

[Rowan · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just loved reading this book, Tessa newly divorced and with 2 children, moves to a new town and next door to Parker. For Parker, its love at first sight, but until Tessa breaks her arm and needs help; she doesn’t take any notice of Parker. This book is well written, with no aghast and lovely characters, main and secondary. Well worth the read.

[Finding Sky Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another fantastic book from Shannon O'Conner, if you didn't know I'm a huge fan of her interconnected small town series.

I truly loved Parker and Tessa and I was so excited because this had so many themes I love but also I related to them soooo much!!!

We got Parker who recently moved to Evergreen Valley with her two kiddos after seperating from her ex husband. (Who is utterly useless by the way and god I related and to her struggles as a parent surrounding that). She's also a librarian and she's juggling work and being a parent. But gosh I just loved her, she was just so relatable and down to earth.
Parker, oh my gosh talk about swoon worthy! I loved how Parker was so respectful of Tessa and yet also relentless in the best of ways. She knew how to help and did things so selflessly to show Tessa how much she could fit into her life, or I guess their lives as Tessa is a package deal. I loved her personality, it was flirty and confident.

I loved their chemistry, I loved each interaction and looked forward to more each time. Their intimacy together was so well done and honestly very realistic, I like that there was reassurance and consent. Again, respect between eachother. Also can we talk about the fact that Shannon did age gap well, it was there but it wasn't the main focus, just noted and I loved that. Again I relate as me and my partner have a gap between us too! I honestly could have read more of them! The end wrapped up too soon.

Things I loved:
- Sapphic Romance Bi4Bi
- Age gap
- Neighbours to Lovers
- Small town
- Single mom (well not so single any more 🤭)

Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️ Open door and detailled
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[SusieQ · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story of Parker and Tessa fits beautifully into the series created by Shannon. It does take a little getting used to that the timeline runs parallel to another story in the series, which can occasionally be slightly confusing—especially if you have already read that book and therefore have some prior knowledge of the bigger picture.

Focusing back on Tessa and Parker, their first meeting, the way they grow closer, and what they are willing to do for each other are all portrayed in a warm and engaging way. They are likeable characters, easy to connect with, and it’s natural to empathize with their emotions and experiences throughout the story.

While I did find that the development of their relationship moved rather quickly within the timeline—partly due to this being a relatively shorter book—the intensity of their connection is strong and feels very believable. Overall, it’s a compelling addition to the series that delivers both emotional depth and heartfelt romance despite its shorter length.

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

[Alice Higgins · Rating 4 out of 5]

I got to ARC read this and it was such a good book, I didn't stop reading once I'd started, I couldn't. I mean, i didn't try because i didn't want to, but you get the point. It's no secret that sapphic books are my latest obsession, and this was my first single mum sapphic romance, and i now need more.

I loved Tessa and Parker so much, they worked so well together. Parker never hesitated to show up for Tessa, even when Tessa was being stubborn as fuck. Not only was she supportive, she was so respectful to Tessa's boundaries regarding Natalie and Drew, she was also incredible with them. Parker is the absolute sweetest and I love her so much. She never hesitated to go out of her way to help Tessa and it was the cutest.

I cannot recommend this book enough, Shannon's writing is so book, it really draws you in.

[Aimee · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a sweet story of a mom finding’s herself again after divorce. I loved that Tessa was slowly learning how to ask for help again and seeing her value it as a gift and not a forced activity.

Parker was so sweet to Tessa and the kids. Her valuing not only their space but boundaries was so kind and understanding! Plus it was so sweet to see her go over the top for Tessa!

My only wish is some of the unspoken moments in the book were written almost too obvious. I wanted to just feel those sweet moments instead!

The spice was quite nice though 🤭 just enough for this sweet story!

Thank you to BookSirens and Shannon O’Connor for the advanced copy of this book! I can’t wait to read more about Parker’s friends!

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wonderful holiday read! Sweet and steamy sapphic romance with a few entertaining Christmas lights entanglements ;). I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

With brief mentions following the same timeline as How the B!tch Stole Christmas, we meet Tessa and her two kids as new neighbors to Parker. Parker is basically swooning and Tessa, while attracted, is not interested in anything else added to her already busy schedule. Parker is determined to show Tessa that she can fit in to Tessa’s limited time and that Tessa deserves to be taken care of. Read and find out if these two can fit together and if a future is possible.

[Kim Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this book. This is the second book in the Evergreen Valley Holidays series, but it can be read on its own. The chemistry between Tessa and Parker is hot. I love how sweet and helpful Parker is with Tessa and her kids. This is a sweet holiday read with just enough heat. A delightful book you do not want to miss. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Shana · Rating 4 out of 5]

All I can say is that Shannon has done it again. From the very first book of hers I picked up, she has kept me completely enthralled with her words, and Tangled Up in You is no exception. Getting to follow Tess and Parker’s journey—so cleverly hinted at in How the Bitch Stole Christmas—was an absolute delight. Shannon’s attention to detail is remarkable, and her storytelling is nothing short of perfection. This book is heartfelt, engaging, and impossible to put down.

[Looby Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Jax and El’s story it was lovely to read about the story behind Parker meeting and falling for her next door neighbour Tessa.

A lovely, gentle but also steamy book, perfect for a winters day reading by the fire.

I love epilogues and this book delivered with not one, not two, but if you downloaded the bonus epilogue you get three.

Parker and Tessa are so perfect for each other it was nice to keep reading more about them.

[Ramona · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good short and sweet type of book. Not a lot of background and pretty much gets straight to the point and sometimes that’s what I want. The spicy scenes were definitely spicy and I loved it. Definitely worth the read.

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

[Heloise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I adored this I devoured it so good. I love how the relationship develops and both are happy not to rush too soon. I love how Parker decides just to show up for Tessa so she knows she can have help. The way Parker trusts Natalie to speak to Tessa but still fills her in in time. perfect little holiday book

[Frank · Rating 5 out of 5]

Light-hearted yet moving!

This book is romantic, passionate, respectful, and caring.

I liked how Natalie & Drew gradually treat Parker as family - through trust, support, & fun - yet avoiding any displacing of Tessa's [useless] ex.

That was delightful.


(I was fortunate to receive an ARC however the above is, as ever, my own opinion.)

[Donna Reed · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lights on for Christmas

This was a fun quick read with a lovely Christmas song list. I had read The B*tch Stole Christmas so I recognized some friends. I won't look at Christmas lights as a chore again

[Tracy Harris · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was absolutely adorable! I loved learning about both characters. I also loved watching how they came together in the end. Brava!

[Marina · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adorable Christmas romance! Drama free, feel good story with heart and heat! S o’C delivers yet again.

[Mx Phoebe · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tangled Up In You hit all of my spots…and I do mean all. 😉 You’ll be rereading this book even when the holidays are over.

“Thank you, O & M Publishing, for providing this book for review consideration via BookSirens. All opinions are my own.”

[Kaidee McMillan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The second release in the Evergreen Valley Holidays series follows new neighbors Parker and newly divorced Tessa and her two kids as they get to know each other and as Parker makes it her mission to make Tessa believe that they could be so good together. While connected, each Evergreen Valley book can be read as a standalone.

This was another very well written, sweet, emotional, angsty, spicy, and at times tension filled book from Shannon. I absolutely love that she continues to write fully formed characters with so much depth, true emotion, and who don't always just jump into bed instantly. They have flaws and make mistakes, but are always trying to be better.

If you did read How the B*tch Stole Christmas, you will notice some overlapping events, and how they give the perfect opportunities for grand gestures, which I am always such a sucker for.

If you're looking for a sweet story about giving simply, loving without expectations, and some excellent spicy bits along the way, pick this up.