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Glam Fam #3.5
Love Me Merrily
They don’t believe in Christmas magic—until they make their own
Summer McKenzie hates the holidays. Maybe it’s because she’s an atheist who’s never had a reason for the season. Maybe it’s burnout from working at the second-best hotel in Yosemite National Park. Or maybe it’s because nothing has felt truly festive since she lost the love of her life in a climbing accident.
Still, even Scrooges have to do their jobs, and this year, Summer is determined to nab a promotion to sales director by throwing Granite Grove Lodge’s merriest masquerade yet. She’s not expecting anyone to get her out of her bah-humbug funk. She definitely isn’t expecting John Beecher.
With his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer’s eye, John’s talented at many tasks: creating seating charts, painting stunning landscapes, and helping out in a pinch. He’s also a fellow heathen who understands her grief in a way no one else has. As one party-planning catastrophe after another brings them closer, Summer starts to feel something she never thought she’d feel again: hope.
In the final days before Christmas, they fall for each other like a surprise Sierra Nevada snowstorm—hard, fast, and totally unplanned. Sweet, spicy, and full of heart, Love Me Merrily is a holiday novella for anyone who’s ever found joy in unexpected places and love on their own terms.
Summer McKenzie hates the holidays. Maybe it’s because she’s an atheist who’s never had a reason for the season. Maybe it’s burnout from working at the second-best hotel in Yosemite National Park. Or maybe it’s because nothing has felt truly festive since she lost the love of her life in a climbing accident.
Still, even Scrooges have to do their jobs, and this year, Summer is determined to nab a promotion to sales director by throwing Granite Grove Lodge’s merriest masquerade yet. She’s not expecting anyone to get her out of her bah-humbug funk. She definitely isn’t expecting John Beecher.
With his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer’s eye, John’s talented at many tasks: creating seating charts, painting stunning landscapes, and helping out in a pinch. He’s also a fellow heathen who understands her grief in a way no one else has. As one party-planning catastrophe after another brings them closer, Summer starts to feel something she never thought she’d feel again: hope.
In the final days before Christmas, they fall for each other like a surprise Sierra Nevada snowstorm—hard, fast, and totally unplanned. Sweet, spicy, and full of heart, Love Me Merrily is a holiday novella for anyone who’s ever found joy in unexpected places and love on their own terms.
102 pages, ebook
Published November 3, 2025
24 people want to read
About the author
Alyssa Jarrett
4 books35 followersAlyssa Jarrett is a romance author and tech marketer based in the San Francisco Bay Area. When she’s not telling steamy, satirical love stories, she can be found drinking an iced tea or cuddling with her husband and three cats.
You can subscribe to her newsletter, Grumpy + Sunshine, on Substack and follow her @authoralyssajarrett on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
You can subscribe to her newsletter, Grumpy + Sunshine, on Substack and follow her @authoralyssajarrett on Instagram, Threads, and TikTok.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
October 24, 2025
REVIEW TO COME😤!!!!!!!
Yikes..... Well, that was disappointing, I don't think I've EVER rated a Christmas book so low before😑!!!!!!!
Yikes..... Well, that was disappointing, I don't think I've EVER rated a Christmas book so low before😑!!!!!!!
September 25, 2025
*Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a digital ARC. All thoughts and opinions are my own.*
Content Warnings: death of a partner, agoraphobia, off-page car accident, mentions of injuries due to climbing, atheism, religion, and blood
Summer McKenzie hates the holidays. Maybe it's because she's an atheist who's never had a reason for the season. Maybe it's burnout from working at the second-best hotel in Yosemite National Park. Or maybe it's because nothing has felt truly festive since she lost the love of her life in a climbing accident. With his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer's eye, John's talented at many tasks: creating seating charts, painting stunning landscapes, and helping out in a pinch. He's also a fellow heathen who understands her grief in a way no one else has. As one party-planning catastrophe after another brings them closer, Summer starts to feel something she never thought she'd feel again: hope.
I requested this holiday novella on a whim. I did not know it was part of a series when I did, but decided to go ahead and read it since it was only 100 pages. For the most part, I was able to read it with no problem or any prior knowledge from other books.
Overall, this book was just okay. The romance felt very rushed because we’re crunched into a five day period with this novella. Because of the rushed feeling, it did feel very insta-love for me, which I did not care for in this instance. Sometimes I like insta-love, but in the case of it being in a 100 page novella, I think it would have been better in a longer one.
I am giving this one a three star rating for being just fine. I don’t have a lot to say on it and towards the end I was looking to be done with it.
Content Warnings: death of a partner, agoraphobia, off-page car accident, mentions of injuries due to climbing, atheism, religion, and blood
Summer McKenzie hates the holidays. Maybe it's because she's an atheist who's never had a reason for the season. Maybe it's burnout from working at the second-best hotel in Yosemite National Park. Or maybe it's because nothing has felt truly festive since she lost the love of her life in a climbing accident. With his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer's eye, John's talented at many tasks: creating seating charts, painting stunning landscapes, and helping out in a pinch. He's also a fellow heathen who understands her grief in a way no one else has. As one party-planning catastrophe after another brings them closer, Summer starts to feel something she never thought she'd feel again: hope.
I requested this holiday novella on a whim. I did not know it was part of a series when I did, but decided to go ahead and read it since it was only 100 pages. For the most part, I was able to read it with no problem or any prior knowledge from other books.
Overall, this book was just okay. The romance felt very rushed because we’re crunched into a five day period with this novella. Because of the rushed feeling, it did feel very insta-love for me, which I did not care for in this instance. Sometimes I like insta-love, but in the case of it being in a 100 page novella, I think it would have been better in a longer one.
I am giving this one a three star rating for being just fine. I don’t have a lot to say on it and towards the end I was looking to be done with it.
September 29, 2025
Summer isn't really feeling the holiday cheer as she works as a manager at a lodge in the mountains, competing with a much more grand lodge for Christmas parties. Until her friend Tania decides to help her plan the best Merry Masquerade ever she didn't care much for the holidays. When Tania can't make it she sends her other half of the planning team, her brother John. When they meet sparks fly, but Summer holds back because he knew her ex boyfriend who passed away and she's not sure she's ready. However, as days go by and a potential tragedy befalls them can they work together and move past the connection they have or do they throw caution to the wind and follow their hearts?
I love a good novella, short, sweet, spicy and full of holiday cheer. I'm not a big fan of instalove but I do feel like connection can happen quickly and that's definitely what Summer and John have. I really enjoyed this story and recommend to anyone looking for a quick spicy holiday read.
Thanks to NetGalley, Alyssa Jarrett, and Victory Editing Group for allowing me to review this ARC!
I love a good novella, short, sweet, spicy and full of holiday cheer. I'm not a big fan of instalove but I do feel like connection can happen quickly and that's definitely what Summer and John have. I really enjoyed this story and recommend to anyone looking for a quick spicy holiday read.
Thanks to NetGalley, Alyssa Jarrett, and Victory Editing Group for allowing me to review this ARC!
November 4, 2025
Rating ⭐️: 3/5
Spice 🌶️: 1.5 /5
Release date: November 5th, 2025
The novella was a nice quick read!
The characters were well written. As someone with agoraphobia, I really appreciated seeing a character who faces the same struggles I do. It’s something I haven’t read in a book until now. Summer also felt authentic and grounded, which was very refreshing to read.
The reason I’m giving this book a 3 is because the pacing felt too fast. I understand it’s a novella, so there’s limited space for the story to develop before the main characters come together, but I just didn’t feel their connection.
Do I recommend this read? Sure, why not! It was a nice read but it didn't put me in a Christmas mood.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSiren and Publishers, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Spice 🌶️: 1.5 /5
Release date: November 5th, 2025
The novella was a nice quick read!
The characters were well written. As someone with agoraphobia, I really appreciated seeing a character who faces the same struggles I do. It’s something I haven’t read in a book until now. Summer also felt authentic and grounded, which was very refreshing to read.
The reason I’m giving this book a 3 is because the pacing felt too fast. I understand it’s a novella, so there’s limited space for the story to develop before the main characters come together, but I just didn’t feel their connection.
Do I recommend this read? Sure, why not! It was a nice read but it didn't put me in a Christmas mood.
I received an advance review copy for free from BookSiren and Publishers, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 5, 2025
This book took FAR TOO LONG to read. It was 79 pages and I felt like I was forcing myself to read it. I loved the location and the continued series. I needed it to be longer, it felt rushed and I think that is what made it a 3 for me. I love Novellas but not when it feels forced.
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC in return for my honest review on this book.
Thank you Book Sirens for the ARC in return for my honest review on this book.
November 8, 2025
This has a great mix of sweetness, spice, and second chances.
Summer isn’t exactly full of festive cheer, but between the chaos of planning a masquerade and the unexpected arrival of John, she starts to find warmth again, both in the season and in herself.
John and Summer's connection feels genuine, born out of shared loss and quiet understanding. It’s short, heartfelt, and full of holiday charm. Also, the Yosemite setting? magical.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
Summer isn’t exactly full of festive cheer, but between the chaos of planning a masquerade and the unexpected arrival of John, she starts to find warmth again, both in the season and in herself.
John and Summer's connection feels genuine, born out of shared loss and quiet understanding. It’s short, heartfelt, and full of holiday charm. Also, the Yosemite setting? magical.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily
October 14, 2025
🎧✨ ALC Review: Love Me Merrily: An Atheist Holiday Novella by Alyssa Jarrett ✨🎧
🎧 Narrated by Elizabeth Russell
🎧 Produced by High Gravity Productions
Tropes: Grumpy x Grumpy | Holiday Romance | Workplace Romance | He Falls First | Healing Through Love | Found Family | Forced Proximity | Atheist x Atheist Romance
If you’ve ever wanted a holiday romance that feels like sipping spiked cocoa while flipping off a Hallmark movie marathon, Love Me Merrily is the one for you. Alyssa Jarrett takes the usual holiday sparkle and trades it for something a little messier, a little funnier, and a lot more real.
But let’s talk about what really makes this story shine: the audio. Elizabeth Russell absolutely nailed the tone of this novella. Her narration has this cozy warmth that sneaks up on you, even when the characters are doing their best to resist all things merry and bright. She gives Summer just the right amount of bite and vulnerability, making her sound like someone you’d 100% be friends with, the sarcastic coworker who side-eyes corporate cheer but still manages to make everything run perfectly.
And when John enters the picture? Russell brings a softness to his voice that makes him feel instantly genuine, the perfect counterbalance to Summer’s guarded energy. You can hear the connection building between them in every teasing exchange, every quiet confession. It’s romantic without being cheesy and flirty without trying too hard.
High Gravity Productions, as always, delivers audio that feels crisp, immersive, and beautifully balanced. You can feel the holiday spirit lurking beneath the witty banter and grief, like someone slowly turning up the twinkle lights in a dim room.
This is a holiday romance for the people who roll their eyes at carolers but still tear up when love wins. Sweet, funny, and just spicy enough to melt the snow, Love Me Merrily proves that even the biggest Scrooges can find a little joy and some very merry spice, when they least expect it.
🎧 Narrated by Elizabeth Russell
🎧 Produced by High Gravity Productions
Tropes: Grumpy x Grumpy | Holiday Romance | Workplace Romance | He Falls First | Healing Through Love | Found Family | Forced Proximity | Atheist x Atheist Romance
If you’ve ever wanted a holiday romance that feels like sipping spiked cocoa while flipping off a Hallmark movie marathon, Love Me Merrily is the one for you. Alyssa Jarrett takes the usual holiday sparkle and trades it for something a little messier, a little funnier, and a lot more real.
But let’s talk about what really makes this story shine: the audio. Elizabeth Russell absolutely nailed the tone of this novella. Her narration has this cozy warmth that sneaks up on you, even when the characters are doing their best to resist all things merry and bright. She gives Summer just the right amount of bite and vulnerability, making her sound like someone you’d 100% be friends with, the sarcastic coworker who side-eyes corporate cheer but still manages to make everything run perfectly.
And when John enters the picture? Russell brings a softness to his voice that makes him feel instantly genuine, the perfect counterbalance to Summer’s guarded energy. You can hear the connection building between them in every teasing exchange, every quiet confession. It’s romantic without being cheesy and flirty without trying too hard.
High Gravity Productions, as always, delivers audio that feels crisp, immersive, and beautifully balanced. You can feel the holiday spirit lurking beneath the witty banter and grief, like someone slowly turning up the twinkle lights in a dim room.
This is a holiday romance for the people who roll their eyes at carolers but still tear up when love wins. Sweet, funny, and just spicy enough to melt the snow, Love Me Merrily proves that even the biggest Scrooges can find a little joy and some very merry spice, when they least expect it.
October 17, 2025
Oh my word, what a delightful holiday surprise! Alyssa Jarrett's Love Me Merrily is a sweet, spicy, and genuinely heartwarming holiday novella that proves you don't need a belief in Christmas magic to create your own joy.
The story centers on Summer McKenzie, a self-proclaimed Scrooge and atheist reeling from the loss of her love. Burnout from her job at a Yosemite National Park hotel doesn't help, but her determined pursuit of a promotion forces her to tackle the hotel's merriest event yet: a festive masquerade. She certainly doesn't expect to find holiday cheer, and she definitely doesn't expect to find John Beecher.
John, with his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer's talent, is the perfect unexpected ally. A fellow "heathen," he uniquely understands Summer’s grief. As their collaboration on the masquerade throws them together through one hilarious catastrophe after another, they fall for each other like a surprise Sierra Nevada snowstorm—hard, fast, and completely unplanned.
This is a cute, fast, and easy listen about a woman who hates the holidays but finds love again while navigating a Christmas event. It’s quite enjoyable and is packed with so much heart it will make you want to book a trip to Yosemite immediately.
A special note on the production: Elizabeth Russell is a fantastic narrator, delivering the story with a charm that makes this holiday novella truly shine. She was a new voice to me, and she performed this fabulously.
If you're looking for a holiday romance that finds joy in unexpected places and love on its own terms, grab this audiobook!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story centers on Summer McKenzie, a self-proclaimed Scrooge and atheist reeling from the loss of her love. Burnout from her job at a Yosemite National Park hotel doesn't help, but her determined pursuit of a promotion forces her to tackle the hotel's merriest event yet: a festive masquerade. She certainly doesn't expect to find holiday cheer, and she definitely doesn't expect to find John Beecher.
John, with his punk-rock aesthetic and graphic designer's talent, is the perfect unexpected ally. A fellow "heathen," he uniquely understands Summer’s grief. As their collaboration on the masquerade throws them together through one hilarious catastrophe after another, they fall for each other like a surprise Sierra Nevada snowstorm—hard, fast, and completely unplanned.
This is a cute, fast, and easy listen about a woman who hates the holidays but finds love again while navigating a Christmas event. It’s quite enjoyable and is packed with so much heart it will make you want to book a trip to Yosemite immediately.
A special note on the production: Elizabeth Russell is a fantastic narrator, delivering the story with a charm that makes this holiday novella truly shine. She was a new voice to me, and she performed this fabulously.
If you're looking for a holiday romance that finds joy in unexpected places and love on its own terms, grab this audiobook!
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 26, 2025
🎄 ARC Review: Love Me Merrily by Alyssa Jarrett
📚 Holiday Romance Novella | Glam Fam Series (standalone friendly)
⭐️ 3 out of 5 stars
Let’s start here: the cover says cozy holiday rom-com, but the story says trauma, grief, and emotional overload. Summer is grieving the violent death of her first love....yes, she witnessed it....and John is living with social anxiety. They meet, trauma bond, and get intimate fast. Like, within a week fast. It’s giving insta-love, and while that’s not a dealbreaker in a novella, it does make some emotional beats feel rushed or mismatched.
John’s social anxiety is introduced early, but his physical comfort with Summer escalates quickly in ways that didn’t fully track for me. I get that novellas have to move fast, but some plot points felt like emotional shortcuts rather than earned moments.
💭 What to know:
- This is not a light or fluffy read. Grief and trauma are central.
- Summer is an atheist, which is part of her arc..heads up if that’s a sensitive topic.
- You don’t need to read the other Glam Fam books, but this gives a peek into Jarrett’s voice.
- Definitely check trigger warnings before diving in.
📘 Final thoughts: I went in expecting a spicy holiday rom-com with some angst. What I got was a grief-heavy, emotionally raw novella that didn’t quite land for me but I think others might connect with it more deeply. It’s short, intense, and character driven. Just don’t let the cover fool you.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, all opinions expressed within are my own.
📚 Holiday Romance Novella | Glam Fam Series (standalone friendly)
⭐️ 3 out of 5 stars
Let’s start here: the cover says cozy holiday rom-com, but the story says trauma, grief, and emotional overload. Summer is grieving the violent death of her first love....yes, she witnessed it....and John is living with social anxiety. They meet, trauma bond, and get intimate fast. Like, within a week fast. It’s giving insta-love, and while that’s not a dealbreaker in a novella, it does make some emotional beats feel rushed or mismatched.
John’s social anxiety is introduced early, but his physical comfort with Summer escalates quickly in ways that didn’t fully track for me. I get that novellas have to move fast, but some plot points felt like emotional shortcuts rather than earned moments.
💭 What to know:
- This is not a light or fluffy read. Grief and trauma are central.
- Summer is an atheist, which is part of her arc..heads up if that’s a sensitive topic.
- You don’t need to read the other Glam Fam books, but this gives a peek into Jarrett’s voice.
- Definitely check trigger warnings before diving in.
📘 Final thoughts: I went in expecting a spicy holiday rom-com with some angst. What I got was a grief-heavy, emotionally raw novella that didn’t quite land for me but I think others might connect with it more deeply. It’s short, intense, and character driven. Just don’t let the cover fool you.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review, all opinions expressed within are my own.
December 11, 2025
⭐️: 2
🌶️: 1
I’m going to be as concise as I can be with this review which is saying something. Sometimes books just don’t jive with some readers. Not every book is for every one. And this one was definitely not for me.
I appreciate a multitude of world views especially when it comes to the holiday season. As someone who escaped the church as an older teen, books with heavy religious themes/tones are non starters for me. This book has atheist MCs which isn’t something I’ve run across much let alone in a holiday romance. However, their beliefs are shared in such a weird over the top clunky way. It felt super preachy and like an after thought added to make the novella feel more…edgy?
About 15% in I just started skimming because the writing was not great. I’ve dabbled in the climbing world and know some avid climbers. So I understood a good chunk of the references but the author kept adding in the weirdest details like trying to show how much they know about climbing? It didn’t feel organic or necessary to the story.
Now to the romance. Or whatever that was. I love you after 3 days? MOVING IN TOGETHER AFTER 5?! Wtf?! Also. The FMC lost her boyfriend of a few months in a climbing accident ten years ago. Yes, grief is weird but like…it didn’t add up? Or feel believable. Same with the MMCs agoraphobia from a bad car accident? And SO MUCH TELLING and like zero showing.
Overall I should have DNFd but kept hoping it would get better. Had it not only been like 74 pages, I would have.
🌶️: 1
I’m going to be as concise as I can be with this review which is saying something. Sometimes books just don’t jive with some readers. Not every book is for every one. And this one was definitely not for me.
I appreciate a multitude of world views especially when it comes to the holiday season. As someone who escaped the church as an older teen, books with heavy religious themes/tones are non starters for me. This book has atheist MCs which isn’t something I’ve run across much let alone in a holiday romance. However, their beliefs are shared in such a weird over the top clunky way. It felt super preachy and like an after thought added to make the novella feel more…edgy?
About 15% in I just started skimming because the writing was not great. I’ve dabbled in the climbing world and know some avid climbers. So I understood a good chunk of the references but the author kept adding in the weirdest details like trying to show how much they know about climbing? It didn’t feel organic or necessary to the story.
Now to the romance. Or whatever that was. I love you after 3 days? MOVING IN TOGETHER AFTER 5?! Wtf?! Also. The FMC lost her boyfriend of a few months in a climbing accident ten years ago. Yes, grief is weird but like…it didn’t add up? Or feel believable. Same with the MMCs agoraphobia from a bad car accident? And SO MUCH TELLING and like zero showing.
Overall I should have DNFd but kept hoping it would get better. Had it not only been like 74 pages, I would have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 19, 2025
Unfortunately, this just wasn’t for me. I picked it up thinking it would be a light and fluffy holiday novella but it was more insta-love with two broken souls. The MMC suffers some serious social anxiety while the FMC is still struggling with PTSD from seeing her boyfriend’s skull crushed by a falling rock the decade before. This character setup does not immediately scream season’s greetings.
The relationship also felt rushed and unconvincing. I know, I know, it’s a novella, it has to be rushed. But, based on the character setups, it just didn’t ring true that the MMC would be caressing her hair the day they meet or that she’d throw herself at him for a kiss the following day. And this isn’t even considering the fact that he, a stranger to her workplace, organizes her employees to throw a workplace birthday for her the second day after they met, and also found time to paint her a majestic landscape scene for a birthday present, not to mention painting a secret portrait of her because he just “can’t help himself.” It’s just way too much for me.
Ultimately, this was a DNF at 40%.
Who this book might suit: readers who don’t mind a darker spin on Christmas romance, enjoy instant attraction stories, and want a short, fast-paced novella.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
The relationship also felt rushed and unconvincing. I know, I know, it’s a novella, it has to be rushed. But, based on the character setups, it just didn’t ring true that the MMC would be caressing her hair the day they meet or that she’d throw herself at him for a kiss the following day. And this isn’t even considering the fact that he, a stranger to her workplace, organizes her employees to throw a workplace birthday for her the second day after they met, and also found time to paint her a majestic landscape scene for a birthday present, not to mention painting a secret portrait of her because he just “can’t help himself.” It’s just way too much for me.
Ultimately, this was a DNF at 40%.
Who this book might suit: readers who don’t mind a darker spin on Christmas romance, enjoy instant attraction stories, and want a short, fast-paced novella.
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op for the opportunity to read this book. All opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
This is an ARC review from Booksirens, and all opinions are my own.
Someone else posted the trigger warnings; please make sure to check them.
Let me preface this by saying that I am not religious, and this book does not offend me personally. However, if you are, this book is heavily anti-religion, and it is evident throughout the book that the author has disdain for religion. That is not a personal problem FOR ME, but it may be for others, so take that however you want to take that.
With that said, this was okay. However, I expected something different when I requested to be an ARC reader, and this was not that. I wanted to love it, but it just fell so flat in so many areas. I don't mind that they fell in love quickly, but I feel like the chemistry was forced. I feel like a lot of this felt forced, even for a novella. It was definitely not what I expected. Her writing style wasn't bad, though. She probably could definitely write the heck out of a book. This one just wasn't it.
I will say that this book is for you if you are:
-Atheist
-Agnostic
-don't want a traditional Christmas Story
-Like a HEA after trauma and loss.
Also, I think the name of the book needs to be changed because this was not merry at all. This was a trauma bond in the making. However, I am sure someone will like this.
Someone else posted the trigger warnings; please make sure to check them.
Let me preface this by saying that I am not religious, and this book does not offend me personally. However, if you are, this book is heavily anti-religion, and it is evident throughout the book that the author has disdain for religion. That is not a personal problem FOR ME, but it may be for others, so take that however you want to take that.
With that said, this was okay. However, I expected something different when I requested to be an ARC reader, and this was not that. I wanted to love it, but it just fell so flat in so many areas. I don't mind that they fell in love quickly, but I feel like the chemistry was forced. I feel like a lot of this felt forced, even for a novella. It was definitely not what I expected. Her writing style wasn't bad, though. She probably could definitely write the heck out of a book. This one just wasn't it.
I will say that this book is for you if you are:
-Atheist
-Agnostic
-don't want a traditional Christmas Story
-Like a HEA after trauma and loss.
Also, I think the name of the book needs to be changed because this was not merry at all. This was a trauma bond in the making. However, I am sure someone will like this.
October 1, 2025
3.5/5 ⭐️ This was such a quick and cozy Christmas read, I breezed through it in just about an hour! First off, I have to say the cover art is absolutely stunning. Easily one of the prettiest covers I’ve come across this year.
The setting in Yosemite was also a highlight for me. Alyssa Jarrett did such a great job painting the snowy, atmospheric backdrop that I felt like I was right there in the middle of it all.
The characters had really interesting layers—especially the FMC, who’s working in hospitality while grieving her late boyfriend and dealing with the weight of leaving her family’s religion. There’s so much to unpack there, and I honestly wish the book had dug a little deeper into those aspects. Same with the MMC, it felt like there was a lot of potential for more emotional depth that just didn’t get fully explored.
Romance-wise, it’s definitely insta-love. They meet, share a full-on makeout the next day, and fall in love in just four days. I don’t totally mind a whirlwind romance, especially in a holiday novella, but it did feel pretty unrealistic and rushed.
Overall, Love Me Merrily is a sweet, short, festive escape! Perfect if you want something light and Christmassy to squeeze in during the busy holiday season. I just found myself wishing for a little more depth to balance the cuteness.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
The setting in Yosemite was also a highlight for me. Alyssa Jarrett did such a great job painting the snowy, atmospheric backdrop that I felt like I was right there in the middle of it all.
The characters had really interesting layers—especially the FMC, who’s working in hospitality while grieving her late boyfriend and dealing with the weight of leaving her family’s religion. There’s so much to unpack there, and I honestly wish the book had dug a little deeper into those aspects. Same with the MMC, it felt like there was a lot of potential for more emotional depth that just didn’t get fully explored.
Romance-wise, it’s definitely insta-love. They meet, share a full-on makeout the next day, and fall in love in just four days. I don’t totally mind a whirlwind romance, especially in a holiday novella, but it did feel pretty unrealistic and rushed.
Overall, Love Me Merrily is a sweet, short, festive escape! Perfect if you want something light and Christmassy to squeeze in during the busy holiday season. I just found myself wishing for a little more depth to balance the cuteness.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the e-ARC!
October 29, 2025
Fun and festive holiday novella in Alyssa Jarrett's universe of the Glam Fam.
Summer McKenzie is working at Granite Grove, a resort in the Yosemite National Park and is organising the annual Masquerade event. It's a big deal as she's chasing a promotion and her boss is away. John Beecher arrives to help out with the promotional side and he's not what she expects but he's just delicious. Heavily tattooed and a self-confessed gamer, he's agoraphobic and has challenged himself to leave his home and come to the resort. Summer is nurturing her own grief and John is just the ticket to not only help with everything, but also to really see her.
These two hit it off with so much chemistry - it's delicious to read! There's rock climbing, traumatic backstories, caretaking, yearning, found family, birthday cake, snow angels, sizzle and all the tension to be expected at pulling off a 400 person event in wintertime, while falling in love.
Love Me Merrily is positioned as an atheist romance, but the religious aspects of Christmas time – or the lack of them – made no difference to my enjoyment of this lovely novella.
Thank you Alyssa Jarrett for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
Summer McKenzie is working at Granite Grove, a resort in the Yosemite National Park and is organising the annual Masquerade event. It's a big deal as she's chasing a promotion and her boss is away. John Beecher arrives to help out with the promotional side and he's not what she expects but he's just delicious. Heavily tattooed and a self-confessed gamer, he's agoraphobic and has challenged himself to leave his home and come to the resort. Summer is nurturing her own grief and John is just the ticket to not only help with everything, but also to really see her.
These two hit it off with so much chemistry - it's delicious to read! There's rock climbing, traumatic backstories, caretaking, yearning, found family, birthday cake, snow angels, sizzle and all the tension to be expected at pulling off a 400 person event in wintertime, while falling in love.
Love Me Merrily is positioned as an atheist romance, but the religious aspects of Christmas time – or the lack of them – made no difference to my enjoyment of this lovely novella.
Thank you Alyssa Jarrett for the ARC. Opinions are my own.
September 28, 2025
This one’s not your typical sugar-cookie-sweet Christmas romance. Love Me Merrily is a holiday novella made for anyone who doesn’t quite buy into “Christmas magic” but still craves a little hope, heart, and second chances. Summer and John’s story is a breath of fresh air—gritty, tender, and surprisingly joyful. I loved how their shared grief and “outsider” perspective on the holidays became the thing that actually brought them together. It’s raw and real, but still manages to feel festive in its own unconventional way.
Elizabeth Russel’s narration is pitch-perfect—warm and inviting with just the right amount of emotion to pull me in. She really makes Summer’s sarcasm land and gives John’s punk-artist vibe depth.
If you’re in the mood for a short holiday listen that balances spice, grief, and unexpected joy, Love Me Merrily might just be the anti-Christmas Christmas story you didn’t know you needed.
Elizabeth Russel’s narration is pitch-perfect—warm and inviting with just the right amount of emotion to pull me in. She really makes Summer’s sarcasm land and gives John’s punk-artist vibe depth.
If you’re in the mood for a short holiday listen that balances spice, grief, and unexpected joy, Love Me Merrily might just be the anti-Christmas Christmas story you didn’t know you needed.
October 13, 2025
✅ For Fans of:
- Atheist Holidays
- Christmas Romance
- National Parks
- Instant Love
- Working Through Grief
- Post-Christianity Atheism
- Mountain Dew
- Rock Climbing
✏️ Spoiler-Free ARC Review
This book was a simple and cute holiday romance! It was different from other holiday romances because the main characters weren’t obsessed with Christmas and were refreshingly realistic about it. Plus, I loved all the details about the national park and was so happy to watch the FMC grow through her grief.
As a Christian, some of the atheist bits were harder for me to love, but I was honestly still so happy that they were able to find each other and share a belief system.
🖤 Thank you to author Alyssa Jarrett, publisher Geek Chic Press LLC, and NetGalley for the digital copy. As always, my reviews are honest, my own, and voluntary!
- Atheist Holidays
- Christmas Romance
- National Parks
- Instant Love
- Working Through Grief
- Post-Christianity Atheism
- Mountain Dew
- Rock Climbing
✏️ Spoiler-Free ARC Review
This book was a simple and cute holiday romance! It was different from other holiday romances because the main characters weren’t obsessed with Christmas and were refreshingly realistic about it. Plus, I loved all the details about the national park and was so happy to watch the FMC grow through her grief.
As a Christian, some of the atheist bits were harder for me to love, but I was honestly still so happy that they were able to find each other and share a belief system.
🖤 Thank you to author Alyssa Jarrett, publisher Geek Chic Press LLC, and NetGalley for the digital copy. As always, my reviews are honest, my own, and voluntary!
October 24, 2025
3.5 stars rounded up!
This quick novella was sweet, spicy, and wonderfully wintery!
There is a Hallmark movie vibe to the plot surrounding the lead up to Summer’s Merry Masquerade event. She faces a few obstacles along the way, because OF COURSE things had to go wrong at the worst time! It was entertaining but I wish we could have seen some more of the payoff after all the build up.
I enjoyed this atheist take on a Christmas romance. While this part won’t be for everyone, I felt like the theme of “reclaiming” the holiday season was quite relatable.
As expected for a short novella, the romance occurred at light speed. I appreciated that Summer and John connected over some heavier topics before completely jumping in. Some parts were a little cheesy, but that’s really not a bad thing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Geek Chic Press for the ARC!
This quick novella was sweet, spicy, and wonderfully wintery!
There is a Hallmark movie vibe to the plot surrounding the lead up to Summer’s Merry Masquerade event. She faces a few obstacles along the way, because OF COURSE things had to go wrong at the worst time! It was entertaining but I wish we could have seen some more of the payoff after all the build up.
I enjoyed this atheist take on a Christmas romance. While this part won’t be for everyone, I felt like the theme of “reclaiming” the holiday season was quite relatable.
As expected for a short novella, the romance occurred at light speed. I appreciated that Summer and John connected over some heavier topics before completely jumping in. Some parts were a little cheesy, but that’s really not a bad thing!
Thank you to NetGalley and Geek Chic Press for the ARC!
November 11, 2025
Much as I enjoy the lights, colors, and cheer of the holiday season, sometimes the religious elements are a bit much for me, so it's quite refreshing to read a holiday story that celebrates the fun of it, but also acknowledges that some people think differently about this time of year. Even though the page count was pretty short, I thought the author packed in quite a bit of action and emotion as Summer finally acknowledged her past grief and realized it was time to move on and open herself to new relationships. I also loved what a great team John and Summer became as they dealt with and overcame various things that threatened to completely derail Summer's big holiday party. The setting in Yosemite was also perfect for the story and reminded me of all of the wonderful times I've visited there.
December 3, 2025
Thoughts:
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was my first formally atheist holiday romance (although some not declared as such also missed the overtly religious tones) and it was a great introduction to them for me. I liked the way in which such sensitive topics have been handled and it outlined the characters' behaviours early on so we didn’t need to waste time slowly digging out motives and the characters themselves were loveable. I also liked how natural the romance progression felt, despite how fast it happened it didn’t feel rushed or fake.
Favourite Quote:
“Why should Christians get to have all the fun? Yes, the chokehold the holiday has on this time of year is annoying, sucking the air out of absolutely everything else, but the Merry Masquerade is my way of reclaiming Christmas on my own terms.”
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. This was my first formally atheist holiday romance (although some not declared as such also missed the overtly religious tones) and it was a great introduction to them for me. I liked the way in which such sensitive topics have been handled and it outlined the characters' behaviours early on so we didn’t need to waste time slowly digging out motives and the characters themselves were loveable. I also liked how natural the romance progression felt, despite how fast it happened it didn’t feel rushed or fake.
Favourite Quote:
“Why should Christians get to have all the fun? Yes, the chokehold the holiday has on this time of year is annoying, sucking the air out of absolutely everything else, but the Merry Masquerade is my way of reclaiming Christmas on my own terms.”
October 21, 2025
This little holiday novella surprised me in the best way. It’s cozy, heartfelt, and filled with that soft ache of healing and second chances.
Summer McKenzie has lost her love for the holidays after a tough loss, and now she’s just trying to get through the season until she’s forced to team up with John Beecher, a punk-rock designer who might just be the person to help her believe in magic again.
The story balances grief and warmth so beautifully. Alyssa Jarrett doesn’t sugarcoat the pain of moving forward but still wraps it all in festive light and gentle hope. It’s short, sweet, and perfect for curling up with on a cold evening.
If you love stories that feel like a hug and remind you that healing can come in unexpected forms this one’s for you. 🎄💫
Summer McKenzie has lost her love for the holidays after a tough loss, and now she’s just trying to get through the season until she’s forced to team up with John Beecher, a punk-rock designer who might just be the person to help her believe in magic again.
The story balances grief and warmth so beautifully. Alyssa Jarrett doesn’t sugarcoat the pain of moving forward but still wraps it all in festive light and gentle hope. It’s short, sweet, and perfect for curling up with on a cold evening.
If you love stories that feel like a hug and remind you that healing can come in unexpected forms this one’s for you. 🎄💫
September 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for providing me with an advanced copy of this novella.
While this story wasn’t quite the right fit for me, I can see it appealing to a different audience. If you’re looking for a light and cozy Christmas romance, this might not be the one. The characters and themes leaned in a direction that didn’t resonate with me, and I found some of the commentary on faith a bit heavy-handed for such a short book. Overall, it felt more like a spicy, trauma-driven holiday story rather than the festive romcom I was expecting.
While this story wasn’t quite the right fit for me, I can see it appealing to a different audience. If you’re looking for a light and cozy Christmas romance, this might not be the one. The characters and themes leaned in a direction that didn’t resonate with me, and I found some of the commentary on faith a bit heavy-handed for such a short book. Overall, it felt more like a spicy, trauma-driven holiday story rather than the festive romcom I was expecting.
November 4, 2025
I picked up this audiobook thinking it would be a palate cleanser, easy holiday fluff. Unfortunately this wasn’t the case. The book was an instant love story between two people with serious issues, like the death of a partner (12 years ago), agoraphobia and difficult relationships with parents. Coming from a place where Christmas is celebrated whether you believe in Jesus or not, and where all different ways of celebrating the darkest time of the year are embraced, the judgemental attitude towards Christianity felt harsh. Maybe this book just wasn’t my cup of tea.
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November 9, 2025Yikes, not for me. I typically prefer a novella when it's a happily for now situation rather than an I met you 4 days ago, am in love with you and am uprooting my entire life to move to be near you forever, type situation.
It also felt like there was a lot of religion talk for an atheist holiday romance. With the repeated use of phrases that brought attention to the atheism ie. "for a lack of a better term, amen"
It moved far too fast for my personal preference — even for a novella.
The narration was good though. Thank you to high valley productions for the ALC.
It also felt like there was a lot of religion talk for an atheist holiday romance. With the repeated use of phrases that brought attention to the atheism ie. "for a lack of a better term, amen"
It moved far too fast for my personal preference — even for a novella.
The narration was good though. Thank you to high valley productions for the ALC.
November 21, 2025
What a fun cute quick listen about a Scrooge around the holidays. Loved the setting, a lodge at Christmas time. I loved the bah humbug spirit. It’s almost anti Hallmark Christmas movie.
I’m usually more of loving the chase than an instant love sort of girl, but when you only have a short space, you make do. Loved that everyone is grumpy. I can so relate at that time of the year.
And most of all I loved the narration. Elizabeth Russell does a good job at catching the tone of Summer and John. She lulled me right into the story and kept me through the quickie romance.
I’m usually more of loving the chase than an instant love sort of girl, but when you only have a short space, you make do. Loved that everyone is grumpy. I can so relate at that time of the year.
And most of all I loved the narration. Elizabeth Russell does a good job at catching the tone of Summer and John. She lulled me right into the story and kept me through the quickie romance.
Read
December 16, 2025it took me way too long to finish an 80 page novella, but it really did not grab me at any point. Writing was pretty cringe, pacing was super abrupt. The premis didn't really work. Like the book kept needing to remind me the characters are atheists. I know. I don't need the reminder, and that alone is not an interesting enough fact, you need to...idk? do something with it? or nothing! just setting it aside would be okay. But like why is he reminding her that there is no heaven when his face is between her thighs?
October 9, 2025
This is a cute Christmas novella. I picked this audiobook up because I needed a pallet cleaner. For a short novella, it has lots of plot and character development. I would love to learn more about their story or even the side characters. Elizabeth Russell did an amazing job with all the voices. Normally, I don't like single-narration stories, but she made this story really enjoyable with her voice. Go check out this one! Great for the holidays!
October 23, 2025
This was an ok read for me. It’s a cute novella with some insta love and overcoming traumatic past events to the MCs. The setting was in Yosemite, and the story was ok, but Maybe I just wasn’t in the mood for this one yet.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸…
❄️One Bed
❄️Close Proximity
❄️Work place romance
❄️Insta love
❄️Single POV
❄️Mild spice
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
𝗔𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗯𝗼𝗼𝗸…
❄️One Bed
❄️Close Proximity
❄️Work place romance
❄️Insta love
❄️Single POV
❄️Mild spice
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 31, 2025
This is a super-sweet romcom about two characters overcoming past trauma to be together. I love the punk rock vibe of the MMC and the Yosemite setting is a snowy and beautiful. This is not your traditional holiday romance; you won't go into sugar shock from all the cookies and treacly holiday activities. I love a stupidly over-the-top holiday romcom as much as the next gal, but this was a refreshing change, a dose of real life in a winter wonderland.
October 12, 2025
"Our kiss yesterday was so good I forgot my own birthday."
A fun and spicy festive novella, with a terrific setting in Yosemite National Park. 🎄🎅💗 While the story touches on past traumas, generally the tone is light and sparky. The chilli emoji isn't working on my computer - but this story definitely deserves some!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
A fun and spicy festive novella, with a terrific setting in Yosemite National Park. 🎄🎅💗 While the story touches on past traumas, generally the tone is light and sparky. The chilli emoji isn't working on my computer - but this story definitely deserves some!
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the advance copy.
October 19, 2025
I picked up this book as a quick, easy read between fantasy books. The premise sounded interesting, and I do love a Christmas romance story (even in October!) While it was an enjoyable read overall, the relationship between the two main characters developed a bit too quickly, making it feel somewhat rushed and unrealistic at times.
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