Holiday Headlock: A Romantic Comedy

by Terry Armstrong

It’s Christmas time, and Aaron McClellan returns home from the road after being away for many years building a successful career in professional wrestling. He arrives in his hometown of Deer Creek Falls welcomed lovingly by family and friends, but it’s running into his former crush that will make this a Christmas to remember!

Holiday Headlock is a Christmas rom-com like no other. Surrounded by a cast of characters you will never forget, Aaron must ultimately wrestle with whether to continue a life of fortune and fame or embrace the life he once dreamed of in Deer Creek Falls.

262 pages, Paperback

Published June 26, 2025

Reviews

[Becka · Rating 1 out of 5]

The writing quality isn’t great. DNF’d on second page when author wrote that a character was speaking in first person, then proceeded to have the character use his own name in what he was saying, which is THIRD person. Ex. Vito said , “Brent doesn’t scare Vito.” I skimmed through the first third of the book to see if the writing quality would improve, but it didn’t appear to, so I decided not to continue. I give the author credit for a great story idea, but the book fell victim to the lack of an editorial hand that is unfortunately common in print-on-demand books.

[Shelly Keller · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the pleasure of meeting author Terry Armstrong at Christmas Con 2025 in Edison,NJ. My friend made notice of his Kent State lanyard he was wearing and he and my friends instantly connected. We talked about three of us being from NE Ohio and some things in common we shared. Our conversations eventually got to this book Holiday Headlock. If you are a Hallmark Christmas Movie fan, this story is a must read! His characters felt very real and it was easy to fall in love with the storyline. I too had an Aunt Donna who got her Christmas cards out right after Thanksgiving and anyone from this part of the world appreciates the four seasons all in one day!! This book was perfect to cuddle up with a good blanket and get lost in the story. I loved reading it and finished the book wanting more. :)

[Cody Anderson]

Terry Armstrong's Holiday Headlock is a warm, funny, and genuinely charming holiday romantic comedy that delivers exactly what its delightful title promises: a love story with a playful twist. This isn't just another cookie-cutter Christmas romance; it’s a story that smartly leverages a unique, character-defining backdrop, the world of professional wrestling, to explore universal themes of home, legacy, and choosing between the glitter of fame and the quiet glow of genuine connection. It’s a perfect, feel-good read for the festive season, offering a cozy escape with a cast of characters that feel like old friends.

The novel’s greatest strength is its brilliantly specific and relatable protagonist, Aaron McClellan. A successful professional wrestler returning to his small hometown of Deer Creek Falls after "many years on the road," Aaron is a classic prodigal son figure, but with a fascinating, unconventional career. This premise immediately sets up a compelling tension. He’s achieved fortune and fame in a world of spectacle, yet he’s drawn back to the simple, authentic rhythms of his past.

[Valentina Witley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aaron’s background as a professional wrestler adds a fun and unique twist to the classic holiday rom-com setup. Watching him navigate family reunions, old friendships, and the unexpected spark with his former crush makes the story both entertaining and emotionally satisfying. The characters are vibrant and memorable, each adding warmth and personality to the town and the holiday spirit.

What truly shines is the central conflict choosing between a life of fame and success or the simpler life he once dreamed of. Terry Armstrong handles this with sincerity, making Aaron’s internal struggle feel relatable and real. It’s a story about love, home, and rediscovering what truly matters during the most magical time of the year.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a sweet, Christmas sports rom-com featuring professional wrestler Aaron McClellan. It's a quick read with a sweet MMC re-evaluating his life and hoping for happily ever after. There's enough wresting for a fan but not so much that it takes over the story for readers who don't know a thing about pro wrestling. Definitely recommend, especially if you like the made for tv Christmas movies.

[Shawn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Fun holiday story! Taking place in Ohio made it that much more fun to read. Not many books that are romances and wrestling for the holidays. If you like WWE you will like this fun, romantic story.

[Andrea Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just like a Hallmark Christmas movie. I met the author and he signed my book. It was a good heartfelt family story.