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Tailgates & Tinsel
He came to close a chapter. She’s about to rewrite his whole story.
Luke Everhart has one goal this Christmas: settle his late great-aunt’s estate in the picturesque town of Cobourg and get back to his fast-paced life in Toronto. No distractions. No detours. And definitely no falling for small-town charm or cocoa-sipping Christmas magic.
But Cobourg has other plans.
Enter Elysabeth Bennett, holiday enthusiast, and unofficial queen of Christmas cheer. She takes one look at Luke and decides he’s exactly the kind of corporate grump her beloved town doesn’t need. The feeling is almost mutual, until sparks begin to fly beneath their frosty banter.
When Luke is roped into wearing a period costume for the town’s Storybook Stroll, his aunt’s favourite holiday tradition, he’s convinced things can’t get worse. That is, until a snowstorm strands him at Elysabeth’s family-run Christmas tree farm with nothing but a dead EV battery and board games to pass the time.
But as the fire crackles and the snow falls, Luke finds himself unexpectedly drawn to the town, to its people, and most of all, to Elysabeth. Suddenly, “home for the holidays” starts to feel a lot more permanent.
A sparkling, enemies-to-lovers Christmas story perfect for fans of festive romance, witty banter, and new beginnings in small towns.
Luke Everhart has one goal this Christmas: settle his late great-aunt’s estate in the picturesque town of Cobourg and get back to his fast-paced life in Toronto. No distractions. No detours. And definitely no falling for small-town charm or cocoa-sipping Christmas magic.
But Cobourg has other plans.
Enter Elysabeth Bennett, holiday enthusiast, and unofficial queen of Christmas cheer. She takes one look at Luke and decides he’s exactly the kind of corporate grump her beloved town doesn’t need. The feeling is almost mutual, until sparks begin to fly beneath their frosty banter.
When Luke is roped into wearing a period costume for the town’s Storybook Stroll, his aunt’s favourite holiday tradition, he’s convinced things can’t get worse. That is, until a snowstorm strands him at Elysabeth’s family-run Christmas tree farm with nothing but a dead EV battery and board games to pass the time.
But as the fire crackles and the snow falls, Luke finds himself unexpectedly drawn to the town, to its people, and most of all, to Elysabeth. Suddenly, “home for the holidays” starts to feel a lot more permanent.
A sparkling, enemies-to-lovers Christmas story perfect for fans of festive romance, witty banter, and new beginnings in small towns.
ebook
Published December 1, 2025
4 people are currently reading
25 people want to read
About the author
J.C. Hannigan
25 books481 followersJ.C. Hannigan lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband, their two sons, and their dogs. She writes contemporary romance, through which she brings to light awareness of mental health and social challenges.
Like any good Canadian, she loves hiking and carbs.
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Like any good Canadian, she loves hiking and carbs.
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews
December 4, 2025
“You’re collecting donations … in your vintage truck bed? That seems a little performative’” I remarked. Evidently, it was the wrong thing to say. My dismissal only seemed to add fuel to the fire that was Elisabeth.
“Sure, sure,” my sister waved her hand, laughing at me. “You can’t decide whether or not to slap him or climb him like a tree. I get it. He’s haughty, but he’s also a hottie.”
This Christmas time novella offers a charming modern retelling set in a picturesque Canadian town of Cobourg. Elysabeth driving her iconic red 1951 GMC pickup; is a spirited, lovable heroine, while Luke brings the grumpy misunderstood attitude from the big city to the small town as he inherits a quaint bookstore from his great-aunt Helen. Their slow-blooming connection unfolds through small-town gossip, bookshop moments, fundraising activities and plenty of local charm. Sweet, heartfelt, and atmospherically cozy (grab yourself a spiked hot chocolate and snuggle up by the fire), this is a perfect quick read for fans of bookish romances and small-town love stories.
“Sure, sure,” my sister waved her hand, laughing at me. “You can’t decide whether or not to slap him or climb him like a tree. I get it. He’s haughty, but he’s also a hottie.”
This Christmas time novella offers a charming modern retelling set in a picturesque Canadian town of Cobourg. Elysabeth driving her iconic red 1951 GMC pickup; is a spirited, lovable heroine, while Luke brings the grumpy misunderstood attitude from the big city to the small town as he inherits a quaint bookstore from his great-aunt Helen. Their slow-blooming connection unfolds through small-town gossip, bookshop moments, fundraising activities and plenty of local charm. Sweet, heartfelt, and atmospherically cozy (grab yourself a spiked hot chocolate and snuggle up by the fire), this is a perfect quick read for fans of bookish romances and small-town love stories.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 25, 2025
This was so cute. I love a good Christmas tree farm and I adored that the fmc and her family lived on theirs.
This book captured that small town feeling and the sense of community. If you love a town that comes together and rallies for families in need then you’re bound to love this book and the Christmas stroll.
Christmas Day just felt like a let down. The buildup was there. I just wish it was executed differently because it would’ve easily been a 5 star read for me
This book captured that small town feeling and the sense of community. If you love a town that comes together and rallies for families in need then you’re bound to love this book and the Christmas stroll.
Christmas Day just felt like a let down. The buildup was there. I just wish it was executed differently because it would’ve easily been a 5 star read for me
January 1, 2026
cute romance
This was just adorable. Great Christmas feeling and I loved Elysabeth and Luke. All the little nods to Pride and Prejudice were lovely.
This was just adorable. Great Christmas feeling and I loved Elysabeth and Luke. All the little nods to Pride and Prejudice were lovely.
December 4, 2025
Full review on thegraudatedbookworm.com
First, I'd like to thank J.C. Hannigan for sending me an ARC to read! I'm all for the Christmas books these days since we're really in the thick of the Christmas/Holiday season!
I have to say one thing that's always fun to read is Canadian towns that I'm familiar with. Something about it just makes the story a little more real and cozy to read, even if it is in a fictional world. But from the beginning I was drawn to Elysabeth and Luke's story and couldn't help but root for their HEA all the way to the end!
If you love cozy small town vibes set in Christmas time, this is the one you'll want to pick up! A place where everyone knows everything, and it's almost impossible to keep things a secret. The friends & family that make their way into this story was hilarious and sweet. I couldn't stop reading! I really hope there's more to this town coming, because I could read more!
As Elysabeth and Luke begin to spend more time together, they really find out more from each other as well as Luke's great-aunt that he really didn't know all that well. It was sweet to see this city boy really take time in the small town to not only get to know others, his great-aunt's role in the community as well as the impact she left on the town. Seeing him slowly come to realize that the big city really isn't for him was sweet, and while I can enjoy the miscommunication trope, I really did love that they would tell each other what they wanted. Maybe a little teeth pulling to get it out, but it was there!
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this swoony enemies to lovers romance! Give me all the small town Christmas vibes, because I am eating it up!! A quick read, but one that I didn't want to end!
First, I'd like to thank J.C. Hannigan for sending me an ARC to read! I'm all for the Christmas books these days since we're really in the thick of the Christmas/Holiday season!
I have to say one thing that's always fun to read is Canadian towns that I'm familiar with. Something about it just makes the story a little more real and cozy to read, even if it is in a fictional world. But from the beginning I was drawn to Elysabeth and Luke's story and couldn't help but root for their HEA all the way to the end!
If you love cozy small town vibes set in Christmas time, this is the one you'll want to pick up! A place where everyone knows everything, and it's almost impossible to keep things a secret. The friends & family that make their way into this story was hilarious and sweet. I couldn't stop reading! I really hope there's more to this town coming, because I could read more!
As Elysabeth and Luke begin to spend more time together, they really find out more from each other as well as Luke's great-aunt that he really didn't know all that well. It was sweet to see this city boy really take time in the small town to not only get to know others, his great-aunt's role in the community as well as the impact she left on the town. Seeing him slowly come to realize that the big city really isn't for him was sweet, and while I can enjoy the miscommunication trope, I really did love that they would tell each other what they wanted. Maybe a little teeth pulling to get it out, but it was there!
Overall, I really enjoyed reading this swoony enemies to lovers romance! Give me all the small town Christmas vibes, because I am eating it up!! A quick read, but one that I didn't want to end!
November 27, 2025
Enemies to lovers small town romance. Loved the local location as a Southern Ontario native. But it was a timeless story that really would work for anyone. The banter between Elysabeth and Luke was great from the beginning and I really enjoyed how being thrown together help bring down both their walls to see the benefits of the other. Made me want to move to a small town and open a bookstore. Loved the added Pride and Prejudice touches without being cliche. This was a quick Christmas cosy read for all to enjoy.
December 14, 2025
Perfect Christmas read!
It wasn’t my first read by this author and I just love how she can make me feel as I’m part of the book by giving me all the details I crave. I love reading the chemistry slowly building between Luke and Elyzabeth. She was definitely not happy to see him but we all know she couldn’t deny his charm. I wont giveaway all the details but please read it!!! I enjoyed it from start to finish! Well done J.C. !!!
It wasn’t my first read by this author and I just love how she can make me feel as I’m part of the book by giving me all the details I crave. I love reading the chemistry slowly building between Luke and Elyzabeth. She was definitely not happy to see him but we all know she couldn’t deny his charm. I wont giveaway all the details but please read it!!! I enjoyed it from start to finish! Well done J.C. !!!
November 19, 2025
This was a great book! Elysabeth and Luke were the best of dislike to love! The slow burn that J.C does so well! It was witty, funny, but also sweet and spicy! The Christmas small town ambiance was enchanting and the romance flowed so perfectly!
December 21, 2025
Cute town with lots of Christmas vibes.
January 2, 2026
I love that almost all of the author's books take place in Canada. Reading about familiar places is so fun, and this was no exception. I love a holiday romance and this one was a delight to read. Luke and Elysabeth had a great connection, good banter, and who doesn't love an enemies to lovers couple? I really enjoyed the big family that Elysabeth had, the traditions of the town, the other members of the town we were introduced to, and the settings being a book shop and a tree farm?? Yes please! All the makings of a perfect holiday read.
January 3, 2026
I finished this book in no time! Loved it! Living just outside Cobourg, where the story takes place makes the story relatable. I love the small town feel, the characters, and the reference to many local businesses.
December 31, 2025
Slow burn kind of book. Not my usual style but I plowed thru it! I enjoyed it, the small town is actually set from my hometown which is what made me read this.
December 30, 2025
This is probably my favourite holiday themed romance I have read. It hits the nail on the head for Hallmark-esque, and is cheeky about it to boot. It is fun and warm and the pace is good for a shorter novel--perfect for squeezing in during busy holidays. There is some spice, but not too much.
November 30, 2025
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overall, not a bad story. 3.5 stars. A kind of reverse Hallmark Christmas movie where it's the City boy who falls for the charms of small town life and one woman in particular. Warm and cosy with all the usual cliches you'd expect, with a dash of spice at about the 75% mark.
But three reasons why I marked this down some. 1) The Bennett sisters reference felt a bit irrelevant. Apart from their mother being a fan I didn't see the vision? At first I thought it would be Pride and Prejudice meets Hallmark, but it definitely sways more towards the latter. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I do feel I was missold the narrative for that reason.
2) It really needed a line editor. One or two typos is something even the best of stories can't always escape. But there were enough, and frequently enough, that I feel like maybe line edits and betas were skipped in order to meet the season? Things like "Elysabeth was not a causal thing" and "we were able table" are such small things you'll miss when you do your own edits, but really jump out. I'd say points 1 and 2 were maybe a half mark off altogether for me, because they're based on my assumptions and it's nothing revisions can't adjust in other editions.
3) However ... the whole thing was that Luke was not going to move to Cobourg, absolutely not. And then, he does. There were some hints he liked the town, but then he was still sticking to his decisions. And then he reads his aunt's journal that just happened to have a message for him from the day before she passed and that was enough? I feel like, despite being in Luke and Elysabeth's heads for the whole book, I had no idea why that was his trigger. So even though we got the HEA we were rooting for, I felt a bit disappointed. I would have maybe swapped the word count dedicated to everyone's meals, the type of truck Elysabeth drove, and the gifts for the Bennetts at Christmas to a little more exploration into Luke's conflicting feelings, and his ultimate resolution so that the payoff really sings.
Overall, not a bad story. 3.5 stars. A kind of reverse Hallmark Christmas movie where it's the City boy who falls for the charms of small town life and one woman in particular. Warm and cosy with all the usual cliches you'd expect, with a dash of spice at about the 75% mark.
But three reasons why I marked this down some. 1) The Bennett sisters reference felt a bit irrelevant. Apart from their mother being a fan I didn't see the vision? At first I thought it would be Pride and Prejudice meets Hallmark, but it definitely sways more towards the latter. Not necessarily a bad thing, but I do feel I was missold the narrative for that reason.
2) It really needed a line editor. One or two typos is something even the best of stories can't always escape. But there were enough, and frequently enough, that I feel like maybe line edits and betas were skipped in order to meet the season? Things like "Elysabeth was not a causal thing" and "we were able table" are such small things you'll miss when you do your own edits, but really jump out. I'd say points 1 and 2 were maybe a half mark off altogether for me, because they're based on my assumptions and it's nothing revisions can't adjust in other editions.
3) However ... the whole thing was that Luke was not going to move to Cobourg, absolutely not. And then, he does. There were some hints he liked the town, but then he was still sticking to his decisions. And then he reads his aunt's journal that just happened to have a message for him from the day before she passed and that was enough? I feel like, despite being in Luke and Elysabeth's heads for the whole book, I had no idea why that was his trigger. So even though we got the HEA we were rooting for, I felt a bit disappointed. I would have maybe swapped the word count dedicated to everyone's meals, the type of truck Elysabeth drove, and the gifts for the Bennetts at Christmas to a little more exploration into Luke's conflicting feelings, and his ultimate resolution so that the payoff really sings.
November 14, 2025
Get ready to be enchanted by the magical world of Cobourg in Tailgates & Tinsel by J.C. Hannigan, a captivating small-town romance that embodies the essence of the holiday season in every way possible. The witty banter between Luke and Elysabeth is not only entertaining but also sets the tone for a slow-burn charm that will leave you weak in the knees.
The cozy atmosphere of Cobourg is so vividly described that you'll feel like you're right there with the characters, sipping hot cocoa and enjoying the festive lights. The chemistry between Luke and Elysabeth is palpable, and J.C. Hannigan skillfully balances humor, intimacy, and heart to create a romance that is both authentic and enchanting. You'll find yourself rooting for the couple from the very beginning, and the incorporation of Luke's Aunt Helen's journal entries adds a touching layer of depth to the narrative, making it even more special.
This heartwarming tale of love, family, and the magic of Christmas is a must-add to your reading list, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Whether you're a fan of romance, holiday stories, or just looking for a book to get you in the mood for the festive season, Tailgates & Tinsel has something for everyone.
So grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and get ready to be swept away by this delightful read from start to finish. 🎄❤️
The cozy atmosphere of Cobourg is so vividly described that you'll feel like you're right there with the characters, sipping hot cocoa and enjoying the festive lights. The chemistry between Luke and Elysabeth is palpable, and J.C. Hannigan skillfully balances humor, intimacy, and heart to create a romance that is both authentic and enchanting. You'll find yourself rooting for the couple from the very beginning, and the incorporation of Luke's Aunt Helen's journal entries adds a touching layer of depth to the narrative, making it even more special.
This heartwarming tale of love, family, and the magic of Christmas is a must-add to your reading list, perfect for getting into the holiday spirit. Whether you're a fan of romance, holiday stories, or just looking for a book to get you in the mood for the festive season, Tailgates & Tinsel has something for everyone.
So grab a cup of hot cocoa, settle in by the fire, and get ready to be swept away by this delightful read from start to finish. 🎄❤️
November 12, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tailgates & Tinsel by J.C. Hannigan
The banter in Tailgates & Tinsel is everything I love about a small-town romance—flirty, witty, and filled with that slow-burn charm that keeps you smiling from start to finish.
Set in the heart of Cobourg, this story instantly felt close to home. It captures all the magic of the holidays—Christmas lights, family games, and that cozy, small-town feel where everyone knows your name.
Luke and Elysabeth’s chemistry shines through every page. J.C. Hannigan balances humor, intimacy, and heart with ease, creating a romance that feels both grounded and magical. The journal entries Luke discovers from his Aunt Helen add a heartfelt layer that truly ties everything together.
A dog, Christmas, love, and a happily ever after—what more could you want? This was the perfect read to get me into the holiday spirit and continue my Hallmark Christmas movie binge in book form.
This is definitely one to add to your TBR list!
Tailgates & Tinsel by J.C. Hannigan
The banter in Tailgates & Tinsel is everything I love about a small-town romance—flirty, witty, and filled with that slow-burn charm that keeps you smiling from start to finish.
Set in the heart of Cobourg, this story instantly felt close to home. It captures all the magic of the holidays—Christmas lights, family games, and that cozy, small-town feel where everyone knows your name.
Luke and Elysabeth’s chemistry shines through every page. J.C. Hannigan balances humor, intimacy, and heart with ease, creating a romance that feels both grounded and magical. The journal entries Luke discovers from his Aunt Helen add a heartfelt layer that truly ties everything together.
A dog, Christmas, love, and a happily ever after—what more could you want? This was the perfect read to get me into the holiday spirit and continue my Hallmark Christmas movie binge in book form.
This is definitely one to add to your TBR list!
January 22, 2026
I held off on posting my review for this one because I just didn’t love it. It was cute, it was fine - but something felt like it was lacking. I don’t even know if I could put my finger on my exact issue with it, which I feel bad about…
I’m not giving up on this author though!
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC!
I’m not giving up on this author though!
Thank you to the author for sending me an ARC!
January 4, 2026
This story was cute, fun, and full of Christmas cheer. I got this book as an ARC and I enjoyed the story and though the ending what predictable, it was still something I thoroughly enjoyed. It had elements of grumpy sunshine, small town romance, meddlesome family/friends, and so much more!
November 21, 2025
Thank you so much for the advanced copy!
I absolutely adored this book. The banter and chemistry between Elysabeth and Luke was top notch. There’s nothing I love more than a Christmas small town romance and this book delivered! I can’t wait to read more by this author
I absolutely adored this book. The banter and chemistry between Elysabeth and Luke was top notch. There’s nothing I love more than a Christmas small town romance and this book delivered! I can’t wait to read more by this author
December 19, 2025
What a sweet and spicy Christmas Story!
By far my favourite thing about reading this story is that I am semi-local to the location! Knowing where some of the story was written really made me feel like I was right downtown Cobourg in the moment! It was such a beautifully unique reading experience!
I adored seeing Elysabeth all riled up, thinking that Luke was going to close down the bookstore. She had such a fierce passion for not only her community but also Aunt Helen and the community book drive! Watching her slowly fall for the city boy coming in to make changes was so heartwarming and sweet. Plus, watching her force him into Christmas cheer was glorious!
Luke definitely found a deeper meaning in family in this story, and also community in a way that I don't think he was expecting. It made for such a fun journey to read for him!
Oh, and that spice... that was delightfully delicious and so perfect.
I am so grateful to J.C. Hannigan for sharing an Advanced Reader Copy with me. I cannot wait to dig into your other local treasures!
By far my favourite thing about reading this story is that I am semi-local to the location! Knowing where some of the story was written really made me feel like I was right downtown Cobourg in the moment! It was such a beautifully unique reading experience!
I adored seeing Elysabeth all riled up, thinking that Luke was going to close down the bookstore. She had such a fierce passion for not only her community but also Aunt Helen and the community book drive! Watching her slowly fall for the city boy coming in to make changes was so heartwarming and sweet. Plus, watching her force him into Christmas cheer was glorious!
Luke definitely found a deeper meaning in family in this story, and also community in a way that I don't think he was expecting. It made for such a fun journey to read for him!
Oh, and that spice... that was delightfully delicious and so perfect.
I am so grateful to J.C. Hannigan for sharing an Advanced Reader Copy with me. I cannot wait to dig into your other local treasures!
Displaying 1 - 19 of 19 reviews