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The Crush of Christmas Past
This Christmas, Isla Greene’s festive cheer is buried under six feet of snow.
Unemployed, evicted, and back in a hometown that no longer feels like home, the twenty-five-year-old faces a not-so-merry life reset.
The one bright spot in an otherwise bleak winter? Spending the holidays with her childhood friend and his loud, loving family. Their charming chaos provides the perfect distraction, but December isn’t done playing dirty.
An unwelcome chill sweeps into Sugarpine Springs, arriving just in time to crash her vacation.
Theo Thorne.
Her best friend’s older brother. Former mentor. The mistake she swore never to repeat.
For the last half-decade, Theo’s pointed boycott of eggnog and emotions has spared Isla from his grinchy glower. Now, they’re stuck under the same mistletoe-covered roof, flirting with tension thick enough to qualify as foreplay.
As the spirit of the season pulls strings for second chances, Isla must stay focused on her New Year’s goals: establish a freelance graphic design career, find an apartment, and—no matter what—keep Theo out of her heart.
Her crush of Christmas past has no place in her future.
Unemployed, evicted, and back in a hometown that no longer feels like home, the twenty-five-year-old faces a not-so-merry life reset.
The one bright spot in an otherwise bleak winter? Spending the holidays with her childhood friend and his loud, loving family. Their charming chaos provides the perfect distraction, but December isn’t done playing dirty.
An unwelcome chill sweeps into Sugarpine Springs, arriving just in time to crash her vacation.
Theo Thorne.
Her best friend’s older brother. Former mentor. The mistake she swore never to repeat.
For the last half-decade, Theo’s pointed boycott of eggnog and emotions has spared Isla from his grinchy glower. Now, they’re stuck under the same mistletoe-covered roof, flirting with tension thick enough to qualify as foreplay.
As the spirit of the season pulls strings for second chances, Isla must stay focused on her New Year’s goals: establish a freelance graphic design career, find an apartment, and—no matter what—keep Theo out of her heart.
Her crush of Christmas past has no place in her future.
352 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 7, 2025
94 people are currently reading
272 people want to read
About the author
Nova Adams
1 book19 followersNova Adams is a Canadian author with a soft spot for unconventional love stories and well-deserved happy endings. Aside from spending time with family and friends, her favorite things include writing, traveling, and eating chocolate. In a perfect world, she’d be doing all three at the same time.
Email: nova.adams.writes@gmail.com
Website: www.novaadams.com
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Email: nova.adams.writes@gmail.com
Website: www.novaadams.com
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TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@nova.adams.writes
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
October 1, 2025
In my effort to celebrate Christmas in October, The Crush of Christmas Past drew me in with its cute pastel cover and promise of spice- and let’s just say, Adams did not disappoint. 🌶️🎀
Out of work and without a place to live, Isla Green agrees to be her best friend Asher Thorne’s fake girlfriend (aka candy cane cutie) for the holiday season. While you might assume this fake dating romance turns into a best-friends-to-lovers situation, you’d be sorely mistaken. Isla does have her eye on a Thorne man - but it just so happens to be her best friend’s older brother, Theo.
Theo is brooding, mature, and oh-so-competent in everything he does. He also rejected Isla’s advances years ago- but not for the reasons she thinks. Theo usually skips Christmas, but this year, he’s back just as Asher and Isla announce their "new" but intense relationship. With Theo in town, tensions are high and the spice is hot in Sugar Pine Springs. Theo isn’t exactly thrilled about his brothers new “soul mate” and Isla isn’t loving being around her Crush of Christmas Past. Can Isla move past his rejection? And can Theo finally come to terms with his true feelings?
This book had everything I was looking for in a spicy yet cozy Christmas read. There was jealousy, yearning, and let’s not forget THEO 😍. The Thorne family dynamic created the most comforting atmosphere -the perfect setting for this festive romance!! The humor was perfectly rom-com coded (Adams needs to start selling those T-shirts immediately!).
I appreciated the friendship dynamic between Asher and Isla, and I liked that their fake relationship didn’t drag on for too long. You can tell the author put a lot of thought and research into her characters. I especially loved the details about Isla’s job (like the use of accessible fonts). The book struck the perfect balance of yearning without being frustrating. And most importantly, the spice? 10/10.
Adams left me wanting more, and I can only hope an Asher book is coming next 👀
If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas read, look no further and add this to your TBR! 🎄🎀🧁
Out of work and without a place to live, Isla Green agrees to be her best friend Asher Thorne’s fake girlfriend (aka candy cane cutie) for the holiday season. While you might assume this fake dating romance turns into a best-friends-to-lovers situation, you’d be sorely mistaken. Isla does have her eye on a Thorne man - but it just so happens to be her best friend’s older brother, Theo.
Theo is brooding, mature, and oh-so-competent in everything he does. He also rejected Isla’s advances years ago- but not for the reasons she thinks. Theo usually skips Christmas, but this year, he’s back just as Asher and Isla announce their "new" but intense relationship. With Theo in town, tensions are high and the spice is hot in Sugar Pine Springs. Theo isn’t exactly thrilled about his brothers new “soul mate” and Isla isn’t loving being around her Crush of Christmas Past. Can Isla move past his rejection? And can Theo finally come to terms with his true feelings?
This book had everything I was looking for in a spicy yet cozy Christmas read. There was jealousy, yearning, and let’s not forget THEO 😍. The Thorne family dynamic created the most comforting atmosphere -the perfect setting for this festive romance!! The humor was perfectly rom-com coded (Adams needs to start selling those T-shirts immediately!).
I appreciated the friendship dynamic between Asher and Isla, and I liked that their fake relationship didn’t drag on for too long. You can tell the author put a lot of thought and research into her characters. I especially loved the details about Isla’s job (like the use of accessible fonts). The book struck the perfect balance of yearning without being frustrating. And most importantly, the spice? 10/10.
Adams left me wanting more, and I can only hope an Asher book is coming next 👀
If you’re looking for the perfect Christmas read, look no further and add this to your TBR! 🎄🎀🧁
December 7, 2025
3.75 ⭐️ Review
First off, this is such a fantastic debut novel. If you love best friend’s brother, found family, second chance romance (but not really), and just an all-around cozy Christmas vibe, this book is absolutely for you.
I adored the FMC. She’s one of those girls who will do anything for her friends, even if it means fake dating them. She’s warm, loyal, and easy to root for from the very beginning.
The MMC is her best friend’s older brother, the guy she once professed her love to. He turned her down back then, not because he didn’t care, but because he knew she had so much going on and wasn’t in a place to jump into something real.
What got me the most was how he’s waited for her and has been secretly looking out for her this entire time. The quiet devotion and protective energy hit in all the right ways.
If you want a comforting, slow-burn holiday romance with soft characters and a nostalgic, cozy vibe, this debut is definitely worth picking up.
First off, this is such a fantastic debut novel. If you love best friend’s brother, found family, second chance romance (but not really), and just an all-around cozy Christmas vibe, this book is absolutely for you.
I adored the FMC. She’s one of those girls who will do anything for her friends, even if it means fake dating them. She’s warm, loyal, and easy to root for from the very beginning.
The MMC is her best friend’s older brother, the guy she once professed her love to. He turned her down back then, not because he didn’t care, but because he knew she had so much going on and wasn’t in a place to jump into something real.
What got me the most was how he’s waited for her and has been secretly looking out for her this entire time. The quiet devotion and protective energy hit in all the right ways.
If you want a comforting, slow-burn holiday romance with soft characters and a nostalgic, cozy vibe, this debut is definitely worth picking up.
October 3, 2025
**Good Vibes!**
*The Crush of Christmas Past* is the debut book by the amazing author Nova Adams, and it’s the perfect cozy read to curl up with during the holidays! This sweet Christmas rom-com concludes with a happy ending for Isla and Theo, leaving you with a smile.
When Isla hits rock bottom, she moves back home and ends up in a fake relationship with her best friend, Asher. What she doesn’t expect is for Theo—Asher’s older brother and her long-time crush who once broke her heart—to come back into her life. Theo sees this as the perfect moment to win Isla over again, especially when he realizes that Isla and Asher’s relationship isn’t the real deal. He’s determined to do whatever it takes to reclaim what he believes is his.
Can Isla learn to trust again and lower her guard? Can Theo show her that he deserves a second chance? As they finally embrace their feelings and recognize the chemistry that’s been simmering all along, things heat up, and it gets exciting!
Nova does an incredible job of crafting relatable characters, both main and supporting. The world she creates is filled with the warmth of found family, small-town holiday cheer, and charming banter that really enhances the festive vibe. I can’t wait to see more of the Thorne family in future stories!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
*The Crush of Christmas Past* is the debut book by the amazing author Nova Adams, and it’s the perfect cozy read to curl up with during the holidays! This sweet Christmas rom-com concludes with a happy ending for Isla and Theo, leaving you with a smile.
When Isla hits rock bottom, she moves back home and ends up in a fake relationship with her best friend, Asher. What she doesn’t expect is for Theo—Asher’s older brother and her long-time crush who once broke her heart—to come back into her life. Theo sees this as the perfect moment to win Isla over again, especially when he realizes that Isla and Asher’s relationship isn’t the real deal. He’s determined to do whatever it takes to reclaim what he believes is his.
Can Isla learn to trust again and lower her guard? Can Theo show her that he deserves a second chance? As they finally embrace their feelings and recognize the chemistry that’s been simmering all along, things heat up, and it gets exciting!
Nova does an incredible job of crafting relatable characters, both main and supporting. The world she creates is filled with the warmth of found family, small-town holiday cheer, and charming banter that really enhances the festive vibe. I can’t wait to see more of the Thorne family in future stories!
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 23, 2025
Thank you Nova Adams for an ARC copy of my new favourite Christmas book. Christmas has never been so fuled with sexual tension.The relationship between Isla and Asher is just so platonically adorable. The tension between Theo and Isla just makes me wanna scream into a pillow. I want to experience a Sugerpine Springs Christmas! Nova Adams has made me fall in love with the Christmas season more than I already had. It’s the perfect time of year for a cheesy romance book/movie and this book is it, it has all the tropes you could possibly need; age gap, best friends brother, small town romance, found family and forced proximity. I am obsessed with Theo and Isla, the found family between them two and the rest of his family is just top tier. Theo certainly has a way with his words ;)
This is gonna be a book that’s reread every Christmas season, it’s Christmas perfection wrapped up with a little bow 💝
This is gonna be a book that’s reread every Christmas season, it’s Christmas perfection wrapped up with a little bow 💝
October 31, 2025
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Let me start by saying that this book gets an infinite star rating. ♾️⭐❤️ It is magnificently delightful. Please someone point me in the direction of my very own Theo Thorne. I know it isn't Christmas just yet, and I'm pretty sure I'm past the age where Santa still grants wishes but I'm still going to put him on my wish-list for this and every Christmas to come. ❤️
I fell for Theo from the very beginning. Even when he broke Isla's heart and not only walked away from her but stayed away from her for six years. SIX years. I was Team Theo from the moment he was first mentioned. Asher was a great best friend but a TERRIBLE fake boyfriend (THANK GOODNESS). He was too preoccupied with his previous relationship to bother with Isla and I'm grateful that it turned out this way. His brother and Isla are meant for each other. The two of them are the very definition of soulmates.
Not only did Theo do right by her when she was 19 and vulnerable, he waited for her for six agonizing years. SIX years where he threw himself into work and stayed away from his own family during the holidays just to make sure she had some semblance of normalcy - of family. He's selfless and genuinely cares for his family and for Isla. He spent all that time taking care of her, keeping an eye on her, making sure she was thriving even if she did think it was always Asher. The man didn't stay away to hurt her. He stayed away because he genuinely believed he wasn't worthy of her. He calls her Sunshine. He tattooed her art on his body years after they'd stopped orbiting around each other, because subconsciously he knew he would find a way to make things right for them. And make things right, he did. He redeemed himself in every way.
As for Isla I loved her strength, her wit and her determination to thrive no matter what obstacle she had to overcome. Individually they are amazing, once they come together they are cosmic radiance. They burn bright and eternal. Absolute magic is what the two of them are. Their love is brilliant, pure and yes even spicy. The banter is top-tier. Their push and pull is perfect for them. I loved everything about this story, their journey and the Thorne family.
There wasn't a single character I didn't love. Jovie may be one of my favorite fictional kids ever. She's definitely a sweet little girl and I am so happy she has all that love surrounding her.
This book is heartwarming and full to the brim with so much love that it overflows on every page. With that being said, I'd like to also say that Nova Adams does an incredible job of writing grief into the story. She weaves it into the story with grace. I'm certain that's one reason why I connected to the story as much as I did. The way she manages to portray such a harrowing emotion gracefully all while allowing the main character to explore her feelings towards a man who she believed had turned her away for no other reason than she wasn't good enough is beautiful. Walking beside Isla as she worked through her grief was healing.
I loved every single part of this book, so much so that I didn't want it to ever end. I was captivated by the story, the town, the characters until the final word. Their story has burrowed its way into my heart and soul. I know I will one day come back to spend time with Theo and Isla again.❤️
Let me start by saying that this book gets an infinite star rating. ♾️⭐❤️ It is magnificently delightful. Please someone point me in the direction of my very own Theo Thorne. I know it isn't Christmas just yet, and I'm pretty sure I'm past the age where Santa still grants wishes but I'm still going to put him on my wish-list for this and every Christmas to come. ❤️
I fell for Theo from the very beginning. Even when he broke Isla's heart and not only walked away from her but stayed away from her for six years. SIX years. I was Team Theo from the moment he was first mentioned. Asher was a great best friend but a TERRIBLE fake boyfriend (THANK GOODNESS). He was too preoccupied with his previous relationship to bother with Isla and I'm grateful that it turned out this way. His brother and Isla are meant for each other. The two of them are the very definition of soulmates.
Not only did Theo do right by her when she was 19 and vulnerable, he waited for her for six agonizing years. SIX years where he threw himself into work and stayed away from his own family during the holidays just to make sure she had some semblance of normalcy - of family. He's selfless and genuinely cares for his family and for Isla. He spent all that time taking care of her, keeping an eye on her, making sure she was thriving even if she did think it was always Asher. The man didn't stay away to hurt her. He stayed away because he genuinely believed he wasn't worthy of her. He calls her Sunshine. He tattooed her art on his body years after they'd stopped orbiting around each other, because subconsciously he knew he would find a way to make things right for them. And make things right, he did. He redeemed himself in every way.
As for Isla I loved her strength, her wit and her determination to thrive no matter what obstacle she had to overcome. Individually they are amazing, once they come together they are cosmic radiance. They burn bright and eternal. Absolute magic is what the two of them are. Their love is brilliant, pure and yes even spicy. The banter is top-tier. Their push and pull is perfect for them. I loved everything about this story, their journey and the Thorne family.
There wasn't a single character I didn't love. Jovie may be one of my favorite fictional kids ever. She's definitely a sweet little girl and I am so happy she has all that love surrounding her.
This book is heartwarming and full to the brim with so much love that it overflows on every page. With that being said, I'd like to also say that Nova Adams does an incredible job of writing grief into the story. She weaves it into the story with grace. I'm certain that's one reason why I connected to the story as much as I did. The way she manages to portray such a harrowing emotion gracefully all while allowing the main character to explore her feelings towards a man who she believed had turned her away for no other reason than she wasn't good enough is beautiful. Walking beside Isla as she worked through her grief was healing.
I loved every single part of this book, so much so that I didn't want it to ever end. I was captivated by the story, the town, the characters until the final word. Their story has burrowed its way into my heart and soul. I know I will one day come back to spend time with Theo and Isla again.❤️
September 26, 2025
ARC Review of ‘The Crush of Christmas Past’ by Nova Adams.
Wow wow wow! This is such a beautiful book🤩
A gorgeous RomCom where Isla returns to her hometown defeated and under the guise of dating her best friend.
Little does she know, is that her childhood crush, her best friend’s brother, decides to celebrate the holidays after years of absence. And THAT, is where things get interesting.
The storyline flows so nicely, the author describes the surroundings and happenings like you are there yourself.
There is a lot of witty banter that made me LOL so many times.
Isla and Theo….. no words. Their chemistry is of.the.hook!
Their 🌶️? My word! Deliciously, graphically written, which made catch my breath a few times. Because oeff, yeah, no words, yum!
This book is a feel good romcom, this should be made into a movie and give you all the hilarious holiday season feels.
This book definitely is a 10/5⭐️ for me!
I cannot wait to read more books from this author!!❤️
Wow wow wow! This is such a beautiful book🤩
A gorgeous RomCom where Isla returns to her hometown defeated and under the guise of dating her best friend.
Little does she know, is that her childhood crush, her best friend’s brother, decides to celebrate the holidays after years of absence. And THAT, is where things get interesting.
The storyline flows so nicely, the author describes the surroundings and happenings like you are there yourself.
There is a lot of witty banter that made me LOL so many times.
Isla and Theo….. no words. Their chemistry is of.the.hook!
Their 🌶️? My word! Deliciously, graphically written, which made catch my breath a few times. Because oeff, yeah, no words, yum!
This book is a feel good romcom, this should be made into a movie and give you all the hilarious holiday season feels.
This book definitely is a 10/5⭐️ for me!
I cannot wait to read more books from this author!!❤️
October 7, 2025
Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Oh. My. Wow. And that doesn’t even begin to sum up just how much I absolutely loved Crush of Christmas past by Nova Adam’s! This book was such an amazing time to read, it had me laughing at hilarious banter and crazy shenanigans, crying with Isla over heartbreak and pasts that can never be changed, and absolutely swooning over Isla and Theo’s sorta second chance romance because if ever two characters deserved their happily ever after it was them! So if you’re looking for a found family, grumpy/sunshine, best friend brother, second chance romance between two amazing characters who also happen to be surrounded by other fantastic characters, with a dash of heartbreak, a smidge of drama to keep you on the edge of your seat, plenty of sizzling chemistry, all set at Christmas time with a beautiful happily ever after then I definitely recommend grabbing a copy of The Christmas Crush now!
Spice:🌶️🌶️
Oh. My. Wow. And that doesn’t even begin to sum up just how much I absolutely loved Crush of Christmas past by Nova Adam’s! This book was such an amazing time to read, it had me laughing at hilarious banter and crazy shenanigans, crying with Isla over heartbreak and pasts that can never be changed, and absolutely swooning over Isla and Theo’s sorta second chance romance because if ever two characters deserved their happily ever after it was them! So if you’re looking for a found family, grumpy/sunshine, best friend brother, second chance romance between two amazing characters who also happen to be surrounded by other fantastic characters, with a dash of heartbreak, a smidge of drama to keep you on the edge of your seat, plenty of sizzling chemistry, all set at Christmas time with a beautiful happily ever after then I definitely recommend grabbing a copy of The Christmas Crush now!
October 15, 2025
This book completely stole my heart. From the very first chapter, The Crush of Christmas Past had me grinning like a kid at Christmas. Nova Adams captured everything I love about holiday romances — the nostalgia, and that spark of hope that only this season brings.
The story felt so personal and real. Dealing with loss during the holidays is so real and hit home. I found myself rooting for the characters as if they were my own friends. Their chemistry was so natural, and the emotional moments hit just right — cozy, heartfelt, and a little bittersweet in the best way. It reminded me why I love second-chance romances so much. I was team Theo from the beginning!!
By the end, I had the biggest smile on my face and that warm, fuzzy feeling you only get from a truly great holiday read. The Crush of Christmas Past is everything I want in a Christmas romance — comforting, romantic, and full of heart. 💝
This one will definitely stay on my holiday reread list!
The story felt so personal and real. Dealing with loss during the holidays is so real and hit home. I found myself rooting for the characters as if they were my own friends. Their chemistry was so natural, and the emotional moments hit just right — cozy, heartfelt, and a little bittersweet in the best way. It reminded me why I love second-chance romances so much. I was team Theo from the beginning!!
By the end, I had the biggest smile on my face and that warm, fuzzy feeling you only get from a truly great holiday read. The Crush of Christmas Past is everything I want in a Christmas romance — comforting, romantic, and full of heart. 💝
This one will definitely stay on my holiday reread list!
October 20, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The Crush of Christmas Past by Nova Adams
This is my first Christmas book of the season and my first time reading anything by Nova Adams. I devoured it in 2 sittings! Seriously, don't start this one thinking you'll just read a few chapters, I couldn't stop. Worth it! 😊 It has all of my favorite tropes: grumpy/sunshine, age gap, best friend's brother, found family, and fake dating (with a twist), just to name a few. Theo and Isla are so good together. Their chemistry is 🔥, and the spice is definitely spicing! Plus, you get the rest of the Thorne family. I can see them becoming one of my favorite fictional families.
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Nova Adams, and Grey's Promotions for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
The Crush of Christmas Past by Nova Adams
This is my first Christmas book of the season and my first time reading anything by Nova Adams. I devoured it in 2 sittings! Seriously, don't start this one thinking you'll just read a few chapters, I couldn't stop. Worth it! 😊 It has all of my favorite tropes: grumpy/sunshine, age gap, best friend's brother, found family, and fake dating (with a twist), just to name a few. Theo and Isla are so good together. Their chemistry is 🔥, and the spice is definitely spicing! Plus, you get the rest of the Thorne family. I can see them becoming one of my favorite fictional families.
I received an ARC of this book, but these opinions are my own. I would like to thank the author, Nova Adams, and Grey's Promotions for allowing me the privilege of reading her work. ❤️
September 24, 2025
ARC REVIEW
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES: Christmas, brothers best friend
Theo and Isla! I loved this story and the characters and the small town. It was such a good Christmas book and exactly what I would want to read at Christmas time!!
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
TROPES: Christmas, brothers best friend
Theo and Isla! I loved this story and the characters and the small town. It was such a good Christmas book and exactly what I would want to read at Christmas time!!
October 18, 2025
I loved this book so much, the whole storyline had me invested in these characters & don’t get me started on the Sugarpine Springs, that town especially at Christmas time was what dreams are made of. The chemistry & sexual tension between Isla & Theo was off the charts even after so many years they still had the connection that tethered them together even after so much hurt in the past. Isla wasn’t expecting to see Theo at the Thorne household for Christmas as he usually skips out, but this year was different & thankfully he showed up to find the girl that has been occupying his mind all these years was dating his brother or so he thought. Things get interesting stories are shared & secrets come out. Theo knows he was given this second chance & he refuses to let it slip away, he wants all the strings but he has to some hardcore graveling with a big side of steamy spice in the bedroom & boy does the connection get really strong! I adored this book so much with the Valentines scene to the epilogue where happy tears were definitely flowing. This author did a wonderful job writing this book & the characters really made fall in love with it, heck it had me wanting to be apart of the Thorne family especially at Christmas they were a riot!
October 13, 2025
I’m so happy to say I’ve found a new favorite holiday romance!!! The Crush of Christmas Past had me giggling, swooning, and kicking my feet. I absolutely loved Isla and Theo! The history between them and all of the things they had to work through together and as individuals was sad and infuriating and definitely a bit depressing for me but it also felt so real and relatable. There was a great mix of the holiday vibes with the fun activities and the sweet heartwarming moments. The town would be perfect to live in and I love the townspeople so much! The spice was SO GOOD 🤤🔥 and lead to an absolutely HILARIOUS moment near the end of the book that still has me feeling second hand embarrassment 😅
I do wish there was more of Asher & Isla’s friendship. He just kind of disappeared which was disappointing (maybe he’ll get his own book??). And i think some of the spice and/or some of the chapters at the end could’ve been cut out to make the book feel like it had its quick pace still. BUT I love this book and definitely recommend it!!
Thank you Nova Adams and Grey’s Promotions for the arc in exchange for an honest review!!
I do wish there was more of Asher & Isla’s friendship. He just kind of disappeared which was disappointing (maybe he’ll get his own book??). And i think some of the spice and/or some of the chapters at the end could’ve been cut out to make the book feel like it had its quick pace still. BUT I love this book and definitely recommend it!!
Thank you Nova Adams and Grey’s Promotions for the arc in exchange for an honest review!!
December 6, 2025
This is such a great slow burn holiday romance!
FMC Isla is at her best friend Asher's family house for Christmas, a tradition she has done for years. When Isla and Asher walk in the door, Isla is completely caught off guard as she see's that Theo is, after 6 years of being away at Christmas time, here. Isla is working on getting her life back in order after losing her job, and really cannot deal with the distraction that Theo will cause. And boy does he cause a distraction, sparks flying between the two, as they navigate their love/hate relationship.
My favorite character in this story, is hands down, Theo. What he did for Isla when she was 19, after what he experienced as a child, is just so heartwarming. Even though he technically crushed Isla when she wanted more than friendship, all his reasons at the time make complete sense. 6 years later, it is really hard for Isla to see past that rejection, even as she slowly unravels all the secrets about Theo, and the things he continued to do for her to the current day. I liked Theo more and more with every new tidbit I learned about him.
Isla has made it her motto to have "no strings" when it comes to relationships, because you can't get hurt if you aren't attached. She maintains that mentality, even as she starts to "feel" things for Theo. This story is such a good slow burn, Theo and Isla dancing around the spark between them, not giving in, but wanting to so badly. While Isla is battling her feelings for Theo, he tries to figure out how to break though the walls she has built around her heart.
The story is set during Christmas time in Sugarpine Springs, so it is a super festive and cozy, Isla describing it "December in Sugarpine Springs is the definition of postcard porn." I just love all the gag gifts, especially those t-shirts and all their sexual puns, they are hilarious! The one that Isla opens causes even more sexual tension between her and Theo, alluding to "too big" and Theo says "There's no such thing as too big." It may be cold outside, but Isla and Theo's attraction towards each other is a fire they may not be able to put out.
Some fav quotes:
"She's a bruise I've never allowed to heal. A thorn lodged deep inside my mind. My body. Every f***ing traitorous part of me."
"Being trapped under the same roof with a man whose proximity fuels dangerous fantasies of both the smothering and smooching kind? Definitely a cookie. Hell, maybe even three."
"I've spent more time than I'd like to admit imagining what his touch might feel like if it went beyond the occasional accidental brush. Tender enough to have me begging? Or so brutal it singes? In my fantasies, I've gotten off to both."
"And her smile-her f***ing smile-is a beam of light straight to the darkest part of my soul."
"The air is so charged a single spark is all it would take to ignite...something."
"I made myself come to the fantasy of the very man my mind and body are supposed to be boycotting."
"Isla Greene is branded into my soul. She's in my thoughts. In my blood. In every damn heartbeat."
"Our lips collide in a brutal clash of lust and longing, years of choked-down want and buried tension detonating on impact. F*** fireworks. We're live explosives. A direct hit from a supernova."
"Maybe if my apartment hunt fails, I can just set up permanent residence on his tongue. The thought drives another sharp throb between my legs."
"We're no longer just skin meeting skin. We're cells colliding, matter erupting."
"His tongue flays me as his fingers gut me. Hardly a poetic way to describe the act, but accuracy matters, and I'm being annihilated. Dismantled neuron by neuron. I can't even tell if I'm sobbing, moaning, or have devolved into making sounds that no longer resemble any human language."
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted copy of this book!!
FMC Isla is at her best friend Asher's family house for Christmas, a tradition she has done for years. When Isla and Asher walk in the door, Isla is completely caught off guard as she see's that Theo is, after 6 years of being away at Christmas time, here. Isla is working on getting her life back in order after losing her job, and really cannot deal with the distraction that Theo will cause. And boy does he cause a distraction, sparks flying between the two, as they navigate their love/hate relationship.
My favorite character in this story, is hands down, Theo. What he did for Isla when she was 19, after what he experienced as a child, is just so heartwarming. Even though he technically crushed Isla when she wanted more than friendship, all his reasons at the time make complete sense. 6 years later, it is really hard for Isla to see past that rejection, even as she slowly unravels all the secrets about Theo, and the things he continued to do for her to the current day. I liked Theo more and more with every new tidbit I learned about him.
Isla has made it her motto to have "no strings" when it comes to relationships, because you can't get hurt if you aren't attached. She maintains that mentality, even as she starts to "feel" things for Theo. This story is such a good slow burn, Theo and Isla dancing around the spark between them, not giving in, but wanting to so badly. While Isla is battling her feelings for Theo, he tries to figure out how to break though the walls she has built around her heart.
The story is set during Christmas time in Sugarpine Springs, so it is a super festive and cozy, Isla describing it "December in Sugarpine Springs is the definition of postcard porn." I just love all the gag gifts, especially those t-shirts and all their sexual puns, they are hilarious! The one that Isla opens causes even more sexual tension between her and Theo, alluding to "too big" and Theo says "There's no such thing as too big." It may be cold outside, but Isla and Theo's attraction towards each other is a fire they may not be able to put out.
Some fav quotes:
"She's a bruise I've never allowed to heal. A thorn lodged deep inside my mind. My body. Every f***ing traitorous part of me."
"Being trapped under the same roof with a man whose proximity fuels dangerous fantasies of both the smothering and smooching kind? Definitely a cookie. Hell, maybe even three."
"I've spent more time than I'd like to admit imagining what his touch might feel like if it went beyond the occasional accidental brush. Tender enough to have me begging? Or so brutal it singes? In my fantasies, I've gotten off to both."
"And her smile-her f***ing smile-is a beam of light straight to the darkest part of my soul."
"The air is so charged a single spark is all it would take to ignite...something."
"I made myself come to the fantasy of the very man my mind and body are supposed to be boycotting."
"Isla Greene is branded into my soul. She's in my thoughts. In my blood. In every damn heartbeat."
"Our lips collide in a brutal clash of lust and longing, years of choked-down want and buried tension detonating on impact. F*** fireworks. We're live explosives. A direct hit from a supernova."
"Maybe if my apartment hunt fails, I can just set up permanent residence on his tongue. The thought drives another sharp throb between my legs."
"We're no longer just skin meeting skin. We're cells colliding, matter erupting."
"His tongue flays me as his fingers gut me. Hardly a poetic way to describe the act, but accuracy matters, and I'm being annihilated. Dismantled neuron by neuron. I can't even tell if I'm sobbing, moaning, or have devolved into making sounds that no longer resemble any human language."
Thank you so much to the author for a gifted copy of this book!!
December 23, 2025
okay oh my goodness, I absolutely ADORED this book! This is in my top 3 of my favorite holiday books I’ve read this year. I am a SUCKER for a good second chance story, & add in best friend’s brother, fake dating, and found family too? I was a goner, and I ate it up! I really loved Theo, he was the star of the show, they were PERFECT for each other! it also kinda turned into a best friends to lovers vibes too, which was fun! Hands down would highly recommend this one!
・❥・ second chance
・❥・ fake dating
・❥・ best friend’s brother
・❥・ found family
・❥・ small town
4.5⭐️
🫶🏼 thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
・❥・ second chance
・❥・ fake dating
・❥・ best friend’s brother
・❥・ found family
・❥・ small town
4.5⭐️
🫶🏼 thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
October 7, 2025
3.5 stars.
"The Crush of Christmas Past" by Nova Adams is a cute, hot holiday novel with a lot of angst and tons of spice. It is an easy read despite its dramatic premise, full of healing from trauma and second chances. It's a fake dating (it's not what you think!!), best friend's brother, "it's always been you" romance where the two main characters, Isla and Theo, *really* needed to work on their communication with one another! The best part about this book is how Isla and Theo experience growth away from one another, as well as throughout the course of the book once they are back in each other's orbit. Though their coupling is a bit of a slow burn, I thought the payoff was worth it in the end. I did love the friendship between Isla and Asher, Theo's younger brother and Isla's bestie. Their fake dating scheme really brings some laughs. There is quite a decent amount of holiday cheer in this book to get you ready for the season. Honestly, this is a solid effort, and I hope to read more from Nova Adams in the future!
Thank you to Nova Adams and Grey's Promotions for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
"The Crush of Christmas Past" by Nova Adams is a cute, hot holiday novel with a lot of angst and tons of spice. It is an easy read despite its dramatic premise, full of healing from trauma and second chances. It's a fake dating (it's not what you think!!), best friend's brother, "it's always been you" romance where the two main characters, Isla and Theo, *really* needed to work on their communication with one another! The best part about this book is how Isla and Theo experience growth away from one another, as well as throughout the course of the book once they are back in each other's orbit. Though their coupling is a bit of a slow burn, I thought the payoff was worth it in the end. I did love the friendship between Isla and Asher, Theo's younger brother and Isla's bestie. Their fake dating scheme really brings some laughs. There is quite a decent amount of holiday cheer in this book to get you ready for the season. Honestly, this is a solid effort, and I hope to read more from Nova Adams in the future!
Thank you to Nova Adams and Grey's Promotions for the complimentary ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. I was not compensated for this review.
September 29, 2025
I thought this was a very cute and funny romance. It’s kind of second chance romance. The characters were great and the banter between them was amazing. I absolutely loved this and didn’t want it to end! This is definitely the type of book you could curl up with, around the Christmas tree. Would definitely recommend!
October 8, 2025
ARC REVIEW** I know it's only October but I finished my first Christmas book of the year and loved it. This one was pretty spicy so just be prepared for that!
Isla goes back to her hometown for the holidays, but under some interesting circumstances. She's going to spend Christmas with her best friend, Asher, and his family, and they're going to pretend to date. The main reason for this is because he's going to his ex's wedding & he doesn't want to go alone, and also make her jealous. The only problem is Asher's brother, Theo... Isla has always had feelings for him and they've never been reciprocated, and now she's stuck in the same house as him for the week.
Isla goes back to her hometown for the holidays, but under some interesting circumstances. She's going to spend Christmas with her best friend, Asher, and his family, and they're going to pretend to date. The main reason for this is because he's going to his ex's wedding & he doesn't want to go alone, and also make her jealous. The only problem is Asher's brother, Theo... Isla has always had feelings for him and they've never been reciprocated, and now she's stuck in the same house as him for the week.
December 9, 2025
This is a new favorite Christmas time read for me!
The RomCom vibes had me laughing and giddy.
The tension, yearning and slow burn had me melting! AND THE SPICE!!!
What an amazing debut novel, I’m truly blown away by this beautiful story!
The RomCom vibes had me laughing and giddy.
The tension, yearning and slow burn had me melting! AND THE SPICE!!!
What an amazing debut novel, I’m truly blown away by this beautiful story!
November 24, 2025
This was a cheesy holiday hallmark movie in a book. Sooo cute and had me giggling! Best friend’s older brother who has always been OBSESSED with her. Emphasis on the cheesy but I truly needed that to jump into the holiday season. You have to read this during the holiday months tho
September 26, 2025
ARC
I’m in love with how the story navigates. It feels like a warm hug following Isla and Theo. I cried, i laughed, i smiled.
I’m in love with how the story navigates. It feels like a warm hug following Isla and Theo. I cried, i laughed, i smiled.
September 1, 2025
How this is a debut novel is beyond me. The Crush of Christmas Past had me hooked by chapter 1. With an idyllic small town setting, this book takes you on a journey of loss, love, and self-discovery.
You will fall in love with the cast of characters. Nova’s use of imagery will have you feeling as if you are right there with the characters.
Theo Thorne might give off the broody bad boy, but he has it bad for Isla Greene. Through years of pining from afar, this man is ready to make Isla his.
Isla has suffered more tragedy in her 25 short years of life than most people experience in a lifetime. She may not want strings, but when she takes back her power and starts to rewrite her narrative, making a mark on those in her life and community, she may realize strings aren’t all that bad.
I hope you all enjoy Nova’s debut novel as much as I did! It’s definitely the perfect book to kick off the holiday season.
You will fall in love with the cast of characters. Nova’s use of imagery will have you feeling as if you are right there with the characters.
Theo Thorne might give off the broody bad boy, but he has it bad for Isla Greene. Through years of pining from afar, this man is ready to make Isla his.
Isla has suffered more tragedy in her 25 short years of life than most people experience in a lifetime. She may not want strings, but when she takes back her power and starts to rewrite her narrative, making a mark on those in her life and community, she may realize strings aren’t all that bad.
I hope you all enjoy Nova’s debut novel as much as I did! It’s definitely the perfect book to kick off the holiday season.
September 17, 2025
The love story of Theo and Isla was like watching a man desperately trying to tame a mare ready to bolt. Very entertaining, the banter was fun, the steamy bits hot and the writer has a great use of words, very visual, you can see the landscape in front of you, feel the cold, feel the snowflakes touching your skin. Great debut!
Think I might have developed a crush on this writer.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Think I might have developed a crush on this writer.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 16, 2025
The Crush of Christmas Past delivers a cozy small-town holiday romance with heart. We follow Isla Greene, 25, as she returns home under less-than-ideal circumstances: unemployed, evicted, and drifting without direction. Her brightest moments come from spending time with her childhood friend’s family, whose festive chaos offers welcome distraction. But then Theo Thorne—her best friend’s older brother and a former mentor (and someone she vowed to avoid)—shows up, stirring up old feelings she swore she’d moved past.
Readings Books
What works well:
The emotional pull of second chances; Theo and Isla share history, regret, and the possibility of redemption, which gives the romance more tension than a purely “meet cute” scenario.
The holiday setting is used nicely: family, community, traditions, and even a snowed-in vibe help give the book its seasonal warmth.
Isla’s goals (freelancing, finding a place, rebuilding stability) ground her character in real stakes beyond romance.
What might not hit for everyone:
Some readers may find the “returning home with baggage + old flame” set-up familiar, even if it’s done well.
Depending on taste, the slow burn between Isla and Theo might test patience if one expects fast-moving romance.
Final Thought: If you enjoy Christmas romances with second chances, tension between past & present, and a heroine whose life isn’t perfect but is trying her best, this one’s worth your holiday reading list.
Rating: 3.8/ 5 — warm, engaging, and comforting, especially for festive romance fans.
Readings Books
What works well:
The emotional pull of second chances; Theo and Isla share history, regret, and the possibility of redemption, which gives the romance more tension than a purely “meet cute” scenario.
The holiday setting is used nicely: family, community, traditions, and even a snowed-in vibe help give the book its seasonal warmth.
Isla’s goals (freelancing, finding a place, rebuilding stability) ground her character in real stakes beyond romance.
What might not hit for everyone:
Some readers may find the “returning home with baggage + old flame” set-up familiar, even if it’s done well.
Depending on taste, the slow burn between Isla and Theo might test patience if one expects fast-moving romance.
Final Thought: If you enjoy Christmas romances with second chances, tension between past & present, and a heroine whose life isn’t perfect but is trying her best, this one’s worth your holiday reading list.
Rating: 3.8/ 5 — warm, engaging, and comforting, especially for festive romance fans.
January 8, 2026
Found family and best friend's brother are two of my favorite tropes, and when you add Christmas, lingering trauma, and unresolved love, it's an instant win. After losing everything, Isla left her childhood home behind, building a new life far away.
Yet every Christmas, she returns to spend the holiday with her best friend Asher and his family who long ago became her own.
This year, however, someone else returned. Theo, Asher's oldest brother. The boy who once held Isla's heart and disappeared from her life six years ago. Being back under the same roof, surrounded by memories they never fully faced, is more difficult than either of them expected. The past still lingers in the things left unsaid, and in the feelings that never truly faded.
After years apart and hard-earned growth, Isla and Theo must decide if the healing they've done separately is enough to risk a future together, or if keeping things no strings attached is the only way to protect their hearts.
I was so impressed by this novel by Nova. Her writing is clever, layered and full of depth. I'm officially a fan girl.
"Her absence in my life has turned terminal."
"There's no such thing as too big."
"You're allowed to be greedy when it comes to the people you
Yet every Christmas, she returns to spend the holiday with her best friend Asher and his family who long ago became her own.
This year, however, someone else returned. Theo, Asher's oldest brother. The boy who once held Isla's heart and disappeared from her life six years ago. Being back under the same roof, surrounded by memories they never fully faced, is more difficult than either of them expected. The past still lingers in the things left unsaid, and in the feelings that never truly faded.
After years apart and hard-earned growth, Isla and Theo must decide if the healing they've done separately is enough to risk a future together, or if keeping things no strings attached is the only way to protect their hearts.
I was so impressed by this novel by Nova. Her writing is clever, layered and full of depth. I'm officially a fan girl.
"Her absence in my life has turned terminal."
"There's no such thing as too big."
"You're allowed to be greedy when it comes to the people you
October 13, 2025
3,5☆ ✨
❥ 𝗔𝗿𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This was such a cute, fun read! It made me remember those cozy christmas Hallmark movies, with lots of swoony moments and a flare of drama.
Theo and Isla were so cute together, and I loved their dynamic — like they couldn’t stand each other, but at the same time had that tension that could set the room on fire. Just loved them!!
They were more alike than they realized, both struggling with feeling undeserving of happiness and avoiding “all the feelings” stuff. I loved watching them open up to each other and how Theo kept reassuring Isla that he’d be there for her no matter what.
I loved all the family shenanigans, the loud moments, and the chaos. Reading this book felt like a really fuzzy warm hug — perfect to read around Christmas time.
Thank you so much Grey Promotions and the author for the opportunity to read this book, in exchange for a honest review.
❥ 𝗔𝗿𝗰 𝗥𝗲𝘃𝗶𝗲𝘄
This was such a cute, fun read! It made me remember those cozy christmas Hallmark movies, with lots of swoony moments and a flare of drama.
Theo and Isla were so cute together, and I loved their dynamic — like they couldn’t stand each other, but at the same time had that tension that could set the room on fire. Just loved them!!
They were more alike than they realized, both struggling with feeling undeserving of happiness and avoiding “all the feelings” stuff. I loved watching them open up to each other and how Theo kept reassuring Isla that he’d be there for her no matter what.
I loved all the family shenanigans, the loud moments, and the chaos. Reading this book felt like a really fuzzy warm hug — perfect to read around Christmas time.
Thank you so much Grey Promotions and the author for the opportunity to read this book, in exchange for a honest review.
October 25, 2025
Back in Sugarpine Springs permanently isn't where Isla thought she would be. But now she is jobless, homeless and hoping for a fresh new start in the New Year. Spending Christmas with her best friend and his family, has become normal since losing her parents. What she doesn't expect is for her best friend Asher to ask her to be his fake girlfriend for Christmas. This isn't what she expected and especially not with this brother. She had given her heart to his brother five years ago and he'd rejected her, and stayed away since.Theo has finally decided to stop running. He'd left his old company and had now set up his own company with a few of his old colleagues. Now he was going to prove he was here and part of the family and admit he was wrong. What he didn't expect was to find out too late and she was now dating his brother. This was going to kill him but he'd have to deal with it. This is a brilliant spicy, romantic, second chance story. Both lead characters have overcome past issues. Although Isla was still struggling believing her worth. Theo is standoffish, structured, and work oriented. However the story actually shows his softer, romantic and vulnerable side. He's definitely on my bbf list. This is a funny, family Christmas story with just enough spice. I'm really hoping the other brothers get their own story, I'd love to find out more of Asher's story.
October 14, 2025
Fake dating, second chances, found family, small-town Christmas vibes, and spice make for a very fun Christmas romance read!
The tension and history between Theo and Isla is great. The setting is perfect. The town and family traditions added to the fun. The family and friends relationships added to the chaos and unexpected twists in the story.
The author's writing was great and kept me laughing with the nicknames and smiling with some beautiful descriptions. The story did lag a little for me towards the end but I did enjoy it. Thank you for the opportunity for this ARC!
The tension and history between Theo and Isla is great. The setting is perfect. The town and family traditions added to the fun. The family and friends relationships added to the chaos and unexpected twists in the story.
The author's writing was great and kept me laughing with the nicknames and smiling with some beautiful descriptions. The story did lag a little for me towards the end but I did enjoy it. Thank you for the opportunity for this ARC!
October 4, 2025
ARC review 🙂↕️
This was an absolutely adorable book! 🥹
It’d definitely be better closer to Christmas rather than October, but still, I had a blast reading it and enjoyed the story 💃🏼🕺🏻
I love how it talked about trauma and emotional growth because of said trauma🥲
Yes it had some sad aspects, but I think that makes books more relatable 😩
This was an absolutely adorable book! 🥹
It’d definitely be better closer to Christmas rather than October, but still, I had a blast reading it and enjoyed the story 💃🏼🕺🏻
I love how it talked about trauma and emotional growth because of said trauma🥲
Yes it had some sad aspects, but I think that makes books more relatable 😩
December 23, 2025
Genre: Holiday Romance
Format: E-book
4🌟 - I liked it!
Thank you @nova.adams.writes for the #gifted copy!
This was so cutie! A huge thanks to the author for being so sweet and for the rec by my bestie @traveling.bookclub 🫶
It has best friend’s older brother 👀👏🏻, pining, a dash of spice, and a cozy Christmas read! This rom-com had me smiling and got me in the spirit for the holidays!
Check out this indie author this holiday szn for a heartwarming and festive read 🎄
Format: E-book
4🌟 - I liked it!
Thank you @nova.adams.writes for the #gifted copy!
This was so cutie! A huge thanks to the author for being so sweet and for the rec by my bestie @traveling.bookclub 🫶
It has best friend’s older brother 👀👏🏻, pining, a dash of spice, and a cozy Christmas read! This rom-com had me smiling and got me in the spirit for the holidays!
Check out this indie author this holiday szn for a heartwarming and festive read 🎄
December 30, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
I had really high hopes for this because it had all my favorite tropes but the execution fell a little flat. Still a decent read just not a favorite.
I had really high hopes for this because it had all my favorite tropes but the execution fell a little flat. Still a decent read just not a favorite.
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