Christmas Ever After

by Michelle Stimpson, Marcella Cox (Narrator), Ian Hackney (Narrator)

Sometimes the best Christmas stories go off script

Stella Jackson loves being the youngest mayor of Hickory Falls, Michigan, a charming town she's turned into a Christmas destination. But when her ambitious plans to host a holiday movie shoot spiral into chaos, Stella finds herself juggling frustrated citizens, delayed production schedules... and a growing attraction to the movie’s leading man.

Daniel Banks is the Ever After Channel’s go-to Christmas hero, but he’s tired of playing in someone else’s story. When a messy production and a fiery small-town mayor force him to confront his own dreams, Daniel starts to wonder if Hickory Falls—and Stella—could be his real happily ever after.

With the clock ticking to wrap the movie by Christmas, Stella and Daniel must navigate studio politics, small-town drama, and their own fears to craft a story worth believing in. But will their love survive the ultimate rewrite?

Genres: Christmas, Audiobook, Romance, Holiday, Fiction, Holiday Romance, African American

Audible Audio

Published November 13, 2025

About the author

Hello, Goodreads community! I'm Michelle Stimpson, and storytelling is my heartbeat. I've found my calling in penning heartwarming women's fiction that offers a seat at the table of family, humor, and hope. As an author, my greatest joy comes from crafting narratives that resonate with anyone seeking to find laughter and light in the pages of a good book. My tagline, 'Read. Love. Repeat.', is a promise of the emotional journey I aim to provide—engaging stories you’ll love and yearn to revisit.

Happy Reading

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stimpson.mi...
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleStim...
TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@michellestimp...

Reviews

[Shawnaci Schroeder · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5
If you’re looking for a no spice holiday read that feels so cozy and truly gives hallmark vibes, you’ll really love this one. I absolutely LOVED how this story had a cutsey romance but also focused on following your dreams instead of letting people in your life choose your destiny for you. This was really cute!

[Tonya Smith · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75⭐️’s

[Caitlin · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just never could get into this one. It was fine but I truly didn't care about a lick of it unfortunately :(

[Michelle · Rating 1 out of 5]

Should've dnf'ed. For a movie with Christmas in the title there were barely any Christmas vibes. Set in Michigan which originally drew me in but no references to anything real so that fell flat for me also.

[January · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Ever After by Michelle Stimpson (2025)
Hickory Falls #2
6h 6m narrated by Marcella Cox and Ian Hackney

Genre: African-American Romance, Holiday > Christmas; Clean Romance.

Featuring: Mayor, Fictional Small-Town Michigan, Film Set, Dual POVs, Actor, Characters From Previous Book, Loss of Parent - Past, Cancer, Family Dynamics, Workaholics, Ghanaian, Community Relations, Meddling, Fake Hallmark Company

Rating as a movie: PG

Songs for the soundtrack: "Silent Night" by Aretha Franklin, "Santa Claus Is Coming To Town" by The Jackson 5, "Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas" by Nat King Cole, "Jingle Bells" by Al Green, "Feliz Navidad" by José Feliciano, "Winter Wonderland" by Darlene Love, "Every Year, Every Christmas" by Luther Vandross

Books and Authors mentioned: Cinderella by Charles Perrault, A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, Rudolph, the Red-Nosed Reindeer by Robert L. May

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️½🎥🎬🐈‍⬛️🎄

My thoughts: 📱18% 1:08:53 Chapter 4 Daniel - Another series not listed as a series. This story pretty much ends where Mr. and Mrs. Christmas left off and mentions Jamal and company. They are trying to film a movie in the small town and the leading man and the mayor have a rocky first meeting and she's a ringer for the leading actress, so I know what that means.
📱42% 2:36:32 Chapter 9 Stella - I don't know if this was 30 minutes, but I hope so; otherwise, the next 14 days are a bust. Leslie and Jamal are background characters in this story, but they mentioned the sequel to Mr. And Mrs. Christmas, and that was just the beginning of the cheesiness. I'm not mad at it, but I did struggle for a minute.

This was a bit scattered, but overall, it was good. It was a nice story, very middle-of-the-road. I went ahead and finished it because of my collage placement, so I'll need a new Audible book, but that's okay because this book is too short for 30 minutes a day to work. It is very much a Hallmark movie, and the climax came quickly with a barely there plot.

Recommend to others: Sure if you need something light to enjoy while you're working, or if you loved the first book.

Hickory Falls
1. Mr. And Mrs. Christmas (2024)
2. Christmas Ever After (2025)

[Ginny Muse · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute Hallmark type Christmas romcom.
I enjoyed that it was a lighthearted, clean romance. But I wasn’t especially invested and didn’t love it.
Stella is an ambitious and overworked young mayor of a quaint small town in Michigan. She has managed to secure her town as the setting of an ‘Ever After’ (aka Hallmark) holiday movie. The movie production issues only increase her stress level. But her connection to the main Ever After leading man, Daniel, and her own chance to be in the movie, bring new joy to her life.
I like the cute town & winter activities, and the supportive characters. The romance is cute and romcom predictable, but nothing very swoony. The self importance of the mayor job got annoying as it was overplayed. I think I would’ve liked this more if it was shorter and cut out some of the repetitive issues. Overall this was okay.
I could give this 4⭐️ as it achieves its romcom goals, but there are better Christmas romcoms out there.

[Alannah Clarke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Ever After is a warm, gentle festive read that leans into hope, healing and the idea that it is never too late for a fresh start. Michelle Stimpson creates a cosy Christmas setting and a story that focuses just as much on emotional growth as it does on romance, which I really appreciated.

The characters are easy to root for, and their journey feels sincere rather than rushed. I especially liked how the story explored second chances and learning to open yourself up again after disappointment. The festive atmosphere is present without being overdone, making it perfect for reading in short bursts during the run-up to Christmas.

While the plot is fairly predictable, it is comforting rather than boring, and sometimes that is exactly what you want from a seasonal romance. Overall, this was an enjoyable, uplifting read that left me with a smile and plenty of festive warmth.

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Christmas Ever After

I Picked Up This Book Because: IG recommendation.

Media Type: Audiobook
Source: Audible Plus
Dates Read: 12/22/25 - 12/24/25
Rating: 4 Stars
Narrator(s): Marcella Cox and Ian Hackney

The Characters:

Stella Jackson:
Daniel Banks
Crew members and towns people

The Story:

Totally a Hallmark movie in book form. Stella and Daniel are very cute together. I’m glad he found her at the right time in his life.

[Rhyse · Rating 4 out of 5]

Queer rep: na

I liked this oooone! It could be a Hallmark film, honestly. I loved how fiery and independent the man character was, and how her lesson was to learn to let others help her - not just in love, but in LIFE. I love seeing strong women of color play main characters in books and my lil Christmas romances are no different!

I enjoyed everything about this; her, the love interest, her lil town, even the story behind the production crew. It was a wonderful, heartfelt story and ending - just what I was looking for during the holiday season!

[Hunter Ross · Rating 1 out of 5]

Incredibly simple story, no character development or much of a feel for who they are (what is known is a lot of tell and not show). The romance was insta-magic after two very quick and bizarre interactions (one negative one neutral but I guess enough for them to fall madly in love). I don't mind some bending of reality but there was so much nonsense it was tough to get through. Also both the female and male narrators, while they have great voices, would intermittently yell or raise their voices so loud it hurt my ears (I listen with headphones as I live in a small apartment) and that was annoying. Definitely felt incredibly rushed and you don't really get to know or care about anyone.

[James Livermore · Rating 1 out of 5]

Set at Christmas, not a Christmas book per se. Also writing was sophomoric and unfortunately not very good. There are cozy predictable plots and frankly ridiculous. This book is the later. Small spoiler maybe...the mayor and the Hollywood actor meet for 15 seconds outside his trailer and have 2-3 minutes at a cafe and then can't stop thinking about the other? I kept increasing the playback speed but honestly wish I would not have finished as it was frustrating.

[Meredith Stepien · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another cozy!! This wasn’t my fav of hers but I do love the northern Michigan setting :)

[Rhaina Mattaini · Rating 3 out of 5]

very christmasy 🎄❤️

[Hadeer هدير · Rating 3 out of 5]

It’s an okay story, clean, no crazy plot which is sometimes needed but the whole time I’m thinking: Where is Stella’s father? Why wasn’t he ever mentioned?

[Bridgette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This romance was so sweet, and endearing. It was about what's in people's hearts, in community, and that big life that's out there. It was about hope, in the face of bleakness. It was about connection. Just read this one, you won't regret it.

[Heather · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.75

[Holly · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was lovely to return to Hickory Falls.

[ShayBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another Christmas in Hickory Falls.. I really enjoy these Christmas story. There are giving Hallmark/Lifetime vibes which I love.

[Drew · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF

[Melissa Martinez · Rating 1 out of 5]

1.5/5

[Mikayla · Rating 2 out of 5]

Star Rating: 2/5
Spice Rating: 1/5

“Children’s high-pitched voices and bubbly laughter always made for the best music.”

Thoughts: I really enjoyed the character development in this story and the lessons learned along the way. The chemistry between the two main characters was gentle and steady – never over-the-top or forced, which actually suited the tone of the book. I also appreciated the mother’s redeeming arc toward the end; it gave the story a sense of closure and growth.

Even though this is a Christmas story, there isn’t a lot that directly ties into Christmas beyond the snow and setting, so it didn’t feel overly festive. At times, the narrative felt a little scattered and not as focused as it could have been, but overall it was a pleasant, very middle-of-the-road read – nothing groundbreaking, but not disappointing either.

Favourite Moment: I loved seeing Stella carefree and relaxed while sledding. That Moment felt really important for her character, as if she were finally allowed just to be present and enjoy herself. I also really liked how both Stella and Daniel were written in this scene; it showed a softer, more vulnerable side to both of them.

Notes: I appreciated the portrayal of a strong female lead who is in the public eye. However, I didn’t love that she was still written as someone who had to do everything and hold everything together, especially when people were trying to tear her down. We see this dynamic so often in media – in books and TV – where powerful women are expected to be endlessly resilient. Yet, we rarely see the same kind of narrative pressure placed on powerful men. It’s a reminder of how ingrained those double standards still are, even in cosy holiday reads.

#ChristmasEverAfter #MichelleStimpson #christmasromance #holidayreads #festiveromance #romancebooks #bookstagram #bookreview #cozyreads

[Rachel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Okay this definitely felt like this could of been a Hallmark movie. Probably has been but I really did enjoy this one. No spice but it was an easy holiday romance read.

[Anastasiya M · Rating 3 out of 5]

Mild curiosity carried me into this story, but it never quite turned into full investment. The premise had all the ingredients for a cosy holiday romance, with a small town, a Christmas movie production, and a behind the scenes look at holiday magic. The tone stayed light and festive, leaning into charm and seasonal comfort, and the themes focused on ambition, identity, and the pressure of living up to expectations. It aimed to be a feel good escape, and while it mostly stayed pleasant, it struggled to fully pull me in.

The storytelling followed a familiar path and often felt a little too safe. Pacing slowed in places, and some conflicts resolved more neatly than they probably should have. Character development was uneven, particularly when it came to the lead heroine, whose need to control every situation made it harder for me to connect with her early on. The romantic chemistry felt muted, though the supporting cast added warmth and helped carry the story. Dialogue was serviceable but rarely memorable, and the emotional impact stayed fairly low throughout.

What worked best for me was the atmosphere. The small town setting and movie within a movie trope added a fun layer, and the audiobook narration brought extra warmth that the story itself sometimes lacked. It leaned heavily into Hallmark style tropes like small town drama, celebrity meets local, and Christmas deadlines, which will work for some readers more than others. In the end, it delivered a comfortable and inoffensive holiday story, but it did not leave a lasting impression, making it an okay listen rather than a standout seasonal read.

Read more here: https://annietheinkdrinker.wordpress....

[Kav · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cozy, heartwarming read! I love that Michelle Stimpson is bringing us back to Hickory Falls every Christmas! This time it's Stella's turn to find her very own happily ever after. With the most unlikely of gentlemen! Daniel and Stella are the perfect match -- once they each deal with some personal roadblocks. And really, that's Stella, because she has this deep-rooted need to live up to her deceased mother's expectations. Only, those might have been skewed by Stella over the years. She's a perfectionist who needs to be in control. But this Christmas delivers the kind of chaos that one person alone can't control. It takes a village...and I love that journey of discovery for her!

I thoroughly enjoyed listening to Marcella Cox and Ian Hackney's narration. They were great at delivering emotion and humour and love the snippy dialogue delivery! I had so much fun listening to this exclusive audible production.

[Melody T · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5

is a cozy, feel-good holiday romance that delivers exactly what it promises—charm, Christmas atmosphere, and a sweet love story. The small-town setting of Hickory Falls is festive and inviting, and the movie-within-a-movie premise adds a fun layer to the plot. Stella and Daniel are likable leads, and their chemistry grows naturally as they navigate studio drama, town politics, and their own personal doubts.

That said, the story follows a fairly familiar Hallmark-style formula. While that predictability will be comforting for some readers, others may find it a bit too safe. The pacing slows in places, and a few conflicts resolve a little too neatly. Still, the audiobook narration is excellent and adds warmth and personality that really enhances the experience.

Overall, this is an enjoyable, clean, and wholesome Christmas romance—perfect for the holiday season or when you want something light and comforting. Not groundbreaking, but definitely charming.

[ضحى الحداد · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really like these kind of books specially during the holidays, it gives such a cozy feeling without the unnecessary Drama

The story is about Stella, she is the new Mayor for the town and she wants it to thrive, so she strikes a deal with a Hallmark look-a-like channel to make a movie in the town hoping to increase tourism, but this deal is not easy because a movie consists of a lot of crew and props and really cute and charming leading stars .. Daniel is the leading star of the movie, at first they get off on the wrong foot because each one of them has certain assumption about the other, but the more tie they spend together the more Christmas magic will show them the way

the book was extremely cozy and wholesome, the story was simple with a bit of meaning to it .. every character was nice to follow
I just knew that this is a sequel to another book, so I will go ahead and read it

[JigsawGirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was ok. It wasn't bad. It wasn't something that grabbed my attention and held it throughout the book. It was kind of blah.

I can't call it a sweet romance because the romance vibe was seriously lacking. Stella did not make a positive impression from the very beginning of the book. How did she think that Daniel was supposed to automatically know who she was and why she was at his door? She didn't contact him to tell him. It seemed pretty obvious that people had been knocking on his door asking for autographs.

I did like the way Daniel interacted with her friends and integrated with the residents of the town. Stella seemed to think nothing or no one could function without her assistance. It seemed like people had been trying to convince Stella for a while that although she was very important to her job, she was not indispensable.

Rating: 2.5 Stars

[Alie James · Rating 1 out of 5]

Well darn, this one missed in my book. The audio narrators are top notch, but unfortunately, the story fell flat. I had never heard of the author before but apparently, she has over a hundred books which means (unless you are S. King) it is quantity over quality. As others have pointed out the "love" story is not developed at all (like not even a tiny bit). I kept picturing little fat Cupid with their arrow outside the movie star MMC's trailer shooting them both after a 15 second (and very negative) interaction. I honestly had to keep increasing the playback speed just to get through a very rushed and incredibly underdeveloped story.

[Jen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not sure why this one didn't grab me. It's a classic Hallmark movie but the dialogue isn't as good. I don't really like the main character Stella. There doesn't seem to be any chemistry between she and the love interest other than some tingles that she doesn't seem to even acknowledge.

To be fair, it might just be the narration. Ian Hackney has it down but Marcella Cox - not so much. The whole thing just feels flat.

And it's a shame, because it really is a nice story about a mayor and a movie star.

[Biggest Little Book Talker · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cute Christmas Story about a small town that is being used for a "hallmark" life movie.
Stella is the mayor of this small town who is desperately trying to keep it all together while also keeping her residents happy. A bit hard to do when you are getting multiple companies everyday about how the movie production is disrupting everyone's lives.
Daniel is the lead of the movie and trying to really get into his creative spirit, maybe the mayor can give him some insight to help him with his role?
no spice