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The Holidate Switch: A Novel
Coming home for the holiday takes a drastic turn for the awkward, when Natalie’s fake boyfriend—Caden, her best friend and long-term crush—breaks his leg and his twin brother, bane of Natalie’s existence, hockey-player Cole, tags in for the show.
201 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 25, 2025
10 people are currently reading
400 people want to read
About the author
Torie Jean
5 books199 followersTorie Jean's favorite memory growing up is the way her Memere's fingers flew over the keys of her two-tier electric organ, playing songs like "Singin' in the Rain", "I've Got Rhythm", and "What a Wonderful World". Her undying love and affection for the magic and charm of Gene Kelly and Audrey Hepburn followed her from childhood, to a seventh grade book report on a Gene Kelly biography, to studying abroad in Paris and finding "the den of thinking men." Torie is married to her high school sweetheart and is blessed with the best gaggle of nieces and nephews she could ask for. She has had endometriosis for over half of her life now, and hopes to raise more awareness of the disease with her writing, while providing the happily ever afters people with endo deserve.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
November 10, 2025
3.5 stars
This was so cute! The heroine is in love with her best friend and has told her family she's dating him, and he's supposed to go home with her for Christmas. He gets injured, though, so his hockey player twin brother, who she hates, agrees to go home with her as her fake boyfriend instead. I looovvedd the hero and the amount of pining that happened. It was fun watching him slowly let the heroine realize his feelings for her and the truth about her best friend. I do think the story was missing a few key scenes, including a confrontation with the best friend, but overall this was such a fun one!
This was so cute! The heroine is in love with her best friend and has told her family she's dating him, and he's supposed to go home with her for Christmas. He gets injured, though, so his hockey player twin brother, who she hates, agrees to go home with her as her fake boyfriend instead. I looovvedd the hero and the amount of pining that happened. It was fun watching him slowly let the heroine realize his feelings for her and the truth about her best friend. I do think the story was missing a few key scenes, including a confrontation with the best friend, but overall this was such a fun one!
December 18, 2025
HOT DANG.
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Okay so I absolutely loved this. For 200 pages I felt like so much was packed into it and it was steamy in all the best ways. I loved the bait and switch and was GLUED to my kindle and read the whole thing practically in one sitting.
This is my favorite kind of man down bad that makes the book incredible. I loved how genuine Cole was with Natalie and her family and going along for the ride while making his intentions known. Natalie wasn’t over the top in communicating and working through the new information thrown at her and it just made everything enjoyable.
I loved all of the holiday moments and think this is an absolute delight that you must add to your holiday TBR.
Overall audience notes:
- Holiday Romance Novella
- Language: mild+
- Romance: 1-2ish almost scenes
- Violence: low
- Content warnings: FMC with chronic illness
BLOG || INSTAGRAM || TIKTOK
Okay so I absolutely loved this. For 200 pages I felt like so much was packed into it and it was steamy in all the best ways. I loved the bait and switch and was GLUED to my kindle and read the whole thing practically in one sitting.
This is my favorite kind of man down bad that makes the book incredible. I loved how genuine Cole was with Natalie and her family and going along for the ride while making his intentions known. Natalie wasn’t over the top in communicating and working through the new information thrown at her and it just made everything enjoyable.
I loved all of the holiday moments and think this is an absolute delight that you must add to your holiday TBR.
Overall audience notes:
- Holiday Romance Novella
- Language: mild+
- Romance: 1-2ish almost scenes
- Violence: low
- Content warnings: FMC with chronic illness
November 25, 2025
Nat has been in love with her best friend Caden since the day she met him, but he’s never shown even a hint of romantic interest. After a tough breakup with her ex, Dillon, the two of them come up with a plan to keep Nat’s parents off her back: they pretend to be a couple whenever it’s convenient.
But when Caden breaks his leg right before he’s supposed to join her for Christmas, he suggests the worst possible replacement… his twin brother, Cole. The same Cole Nat has despised forever.
This story was adorable and surprisingly addictive. I honestly wanted to binge it in one sitting (life said no 😂). It has total romcom vibes with a cozy holiday touch. Yes, the clichés are there and the plot is pretty predictable, but I still loved it.
From the beginning, I had a soft spot for Cole, the tension between him and Nat pulled me right in. He’s such a huge green flag, and one of my favorite parts of the whole book. I also loved that we got dual POVs instead of just Nat’s.
If I had one tiny complaint, it’s that I wish we’d gotten a real confrontation between Nat and Caden. After everything he did, a conversation felt necessary, if only to understand his motives. I still don’t know how he managed to keep up that whole act for three years…
Overall, such a cute and fun read. Perfect if you want something light, sweet, and a little festive! 🎄💖
But when Caden breaks his leg right before he’s supposed to join her for Christmas, he suggests the worst possible replacement… his twin brother, Cole. The same Cole Nat has despised forever.
This story was adorable and surprisingly addictive. I honestly wanted to binge it in one sitting (life said no 😂). It has total romcom vibes with a cozy holiday touch. Yes, the clichés are there and the plot is pretty predictable, but I still loved it.
From the beginning, I had a soft spot for Cole, the tension between him and Nat pulled me right in. He’s such a huge green flag, and one of my favorite parts of the whole book. I also loved that we got dual POVs instead of just Nat’s.
If I had one tiny complaint, it’s that I wish we’d gotten a real confrontation between Nat and Caden. After everything he did, a conversation felt necessary, if only to understand his motives. I still don’t know how he managed to keep up that whole act for three years…
Overall, such a cute and fun read. Perfect if you want something light, sweet, and a little festive! 🎄💖
November 29, 2025
4.5 stars 💫
This was SO GOOD! I'm obsessed.
(However, I didn't love the epilogue, which is why I'm lowering the rating to a 4.5 instead instead of a 5 stars.)
This was SO GOOD! I'm obsessed.
(However, I didn't love the epilogue, which is why I'm lowering the rating to a 4.5 instead instead of a 5 stars.)
January 20, 2026
Plot- Such a unique plot! I liked the aspects that the blurb talked about- where the twin stands in place of her fake boyfriend. The close-proximity, fake-dating tropes worked great.
While I really enjoyed this book, be warned that the deeper premise was far fetched. I can’t explain why bc I want to avoid spoilers, but readers need to be able to just go with it after the big reveal. I did my best to not think about how implausible and absurd-borderline-psychotic it was (to keep the secret for 3 freaking years?!!), and thankfully I was able to still enjoy the book.
Also, be warned!! I was extremely turned off by the MMC in the first chapter. I thought, “What the?! [insert rage face] This book is not for me- no author can redeem this tool.” But reader, push on! The MMC is actually great. Trust me.
Characters- The MMC was absolutely amazing. He was crafted from pure female wish fulfillment where the man is doting, thoughtful, head over heels (for years!), and a mind-reader to boot. (Oh and also totally hot, crazy talented in athletics, relatively celibate bc he’s only had eyes for her, and motivated to get into medical school.) I loved him. How could I not?
Also, he was honorable- he wouldn’t sleep with her when she was drunk. A+
The FMC was okay. I got kind of sick of listening to her overanalyze herself and how she felt unworthy, insecure, anxious, etc. She came off as kind of self-centered, like maybe she wouldn’t struggle with all those insecurities if she looked outside of herself more and thought about herself less. Idk. That’s just how it felt to me. Still, she was fine.
Romance- I really loved how the MMC was so much better than the FMC had ever given him credit for. They had incredible chemistry together. I loved how openly flirty he was, and how he communicated so well with her on-page. He worshipped her and it melted me.
I basically read this in a day, and it was the MMC and their chemistry that kept me turning pages.
Writing - I did not enjoy the writing very much. I wasn’t impressed with the mechanics of the writing (it needed to be edited better for flow, readability, and errors), nor the style of writing. I can’t explain the style… maybe overly casual? Like the equivalent of grunge writing? Whatever it was, it definitely needed polishing.
Also, what the heck with some of the weird stuff the author included? Like the mother who got off on wreaths? Also, the many sexual innuendos that were supposed to be off the cuff and funny but just felt forced/rehearsed.
Content-
Language- Plenty of of F-words.
Spice- Lots of suggestive language and sexual innuendos, a couple almost scenes including one make out scene that included fondling, and 1 explicit on-page sex scene in the epilogue between a married couple.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- yes, she gets drunk but thankfully he stays sober. I hate drunk scenes, but luckily this one wasn’t overly cringy.
Spiritual/religious- no
Cover- fine
POV- dual POV between FMC and MMC, 1st person
Cliffhanger- no
Format- KU
While I really enjoyed this book, be warned that the deeper premise was far fetched. I can’t explain why bc I want to avoid spoilers, but readers need to be able to just go with it after the big reveal. I did my best to not think about how implausible and absurd-borderline-psychotic it was (to keep the secret for 3 freaking years?!!), and thankfully I was able to still enjoy the book.
Also, be warned!! I was extremely turned off by the MMC in the first chapter. I thought, “What the?! [insert rage face] This book is not for me- no author can redeem this tool.” But reader, push on! The MMC is actually great. Trust me.
Characters- The MMC was absolutely amazing. He was crafted from pure female wish fulfillment where the man is doting, thoughtful, head over heels (for years!), and a mind-reader to boot. (Oh and also totally hot, crazy talented in athletics, relatively celibate bc he’s only had eyes for her, and motivated to get into medical school.) I loved him. How could I not?
Also, he was honorable- he wouldn’t sleep with her when she was drunk. A+
The FMC was okay. I got kind of sick of listening to her overanalyze herself and how she felt unworthy, insecure, anxious, etc. She came off as kind of self-centered, like maybe she wouldn’t struggle with all those insecurities if she looked outside of herself more and thought about herself less. Idk. That’s just how it felt to me. Still, she was fine.
Romance- I really loved how the MMC was so much better than the FMC had ever given him credit for. They had incredible chemistry together. I loved how openly flirty he was, and how he communicated so well with her on-page. He worshipped her and it melted me.
I basically read this in a day, and it was the MMC and their chemistry that kept me turning pages.
Writing - I did not enjoy the writing very much. I wasn’t impressed with the mechanics of the writing (it needed to be edited better for flow, readability, and errors), nor the style of writing. I can’t explain the style… maybe overly casual? Like the equivalent of grunge writing? Whatever it was, it definitely needed polishing.
Also, what the heck with some of the weird stuff the author included? Like the mother who got off on wreaths? Also, the many sexual innuendos that were supposed to be off the cuff and funny but just felt forced/rehearsed.
Content-
Language- Plenty of of F-words.
Spice- Lots of suggestive language and sexual innuendos, a couple almost scenes including one make out scene that included fondling, and 1 explicit on-page sex scene in the epilogue between a married couple.
Violence- no
Substance abuse- yes, she gets drunk but thankfully he stays sober. I hate drunk scenes, but luckily this one wasn’t overly cringy.
Spiritual/religious- no
Cover- fine
POV- dual POV between FMC and MMC, 1st person
Cliffhanger- no
Format- KU
Read
October 26, 2025You think I'm tacky baby / Stop talking dirty to me / It sounded nasty but / It feels like you're flirting with me
CW: portrayal of endometriosis and adenomyosis, including chronic pain and blood
The book is closed door with an open door epilogue.
I had the honor of copyediting this cute little holiday romance! I won't be rating because I may be a tad biased, but I had so much fun reading this one and I think you will too.
Happy reading!
November 20, 2025
2.5 ⭐️⭐️
October 24, 2025
Again, Torie knocks it out of the park with this novel, originally published as a novella, and it was just the perfect amount of sweet that is needed.
This story is really about Natalie, who has always been seen as too much (which, relatable) and how she had been pining after her best friend, Camden for the past 3 years. In order to get her parents off her back, Camden agrees to be her fake boyfriend and come home with her for the holidays. However, after an injury, Camden can no longer come home with her so he has his twin brother, Cole, fill his shoes. Natalie and Cole can’t stand each other, so of course, nothing goes wrong. 😉
Natalie is so relatable to me. She overthinks, over processes, and is one that has just the few important people in her life. It was so fun to watch her navigate her changing feelings and how she felt about her self.
However, the brightest part of this story was Cole. His POV is truly what brings the story to life. He’s a joy to read and you feel his intentions in every action he does. This is what brought the novella to the next level and was the PERFECT addition, having read the novella at the beginning of the year
Overall, if you’re needing a quick, lighthearted, and joyful read, this is the PERFECT thing. For those that prefer closed door, this is the perfect thing for you with the only modification being to skip the epilogue.
Thanks to the author, Torie Jean, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and given freely.
This story is really about Natalie, who has always been seen as too much (which, relatable) and how she had been pining after her best friend, Camden for the past 3 years. In order to get her parents off her back, Camden agrees to be her fake boyfriend and come home with her for the holidays. However, after an injury, Camden can no longer come home with her so he has his twin brother, Cole, fill his shoes. Natalie and Cole can’t stand each other, so of course, nothing goes wrong. 😉
Natalie is so relatable to me. She overthinks, over processes, and is one that has just the few important people in her life. It was so fun to watch her navigate her changing feelings and how she felt about her self.
However, the brightest part of this story was Cole. His POV is truly what brings the story to life. He’s a joy to read and you feel his intentions in every action he does. This is what brought the novella to the next level and was the PERFECT addition, having read the novella at the beginning of the year
Overall, if you’re needing a quick, lighthearted, and joyful read, this is the PERFECT thing. For those that prefer closed door, this is the perfect thing for you with the only modification being to skip the epilogue.
Thanks to the author, Torie Jean, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and given freely.
November 2, 2025
Once again, Torie writes the absolute BEST romance, especially for us endo/adeno warriors!
I was over the moon when Torie heeded my begging to give us more Cole and Natalie because the original novella left my frothing at the mouth for more. The banter is top tier between them and honestly I could’ve read 1,000 pages about them. With own voices adenomyosis, endometriosis, and possibly undiagnosed ADHD rep, this book is a comfort read of mine as I feel so seen. Torie’s books always leave me a mess as I never feel less alone than when I read them and for that I’m forever thankful to her. Also, if someone could point me in the direction to get my own Cole that would be great! The way he doted on Natalie was so dang adorable and they were truly the perfect couple. The spice is saved for the epilogue, which honestly the wait was worth it for such a beautiful yet lighthearted way to end the story.
If Torie writes it, I’ll read it. I’ll let her books consume me and become the stories I return to when things get hard and when my endo isolates me. I will never stop recommending her books to anyone and everyone. If you haven’t read any of Torie’s books you’re really missing out.
Thank you to Torie for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I was over the moon when Torie heeded my begging to give us more Cole and Natalie because the original novella left my frothing at the mouth for more. The banter is top tier between them and honestly I could’ve read 1,000 pages about them. With own voices adenomyosis, endometriosis, and possibly undiagnosed ADHD rep, this book is a comfort read of mine as I feel so seen. Torie’s books always leave me a mess as I never feel less alone than when I read them and for that I’m forever thankful to her. Also, if someone could point me in the direction to get my own Cole that would be great! The way he doted on Natalie was so dang adorable and they were truly the perfect couple. The spice is saved for the epilogue, which honestly the wait was worth it for such a beautiful yet lighthearted way to end the story.
If Torie writes it, I’ll read it. I’ll let her books consume me and become the stories I return to when things get hard and when my endo isolates me. I will never stop recommending her books to anyone and everyone. If you haven’t read any of Torie’s books you’re really missing out.
Thank you to Torie for the eARC in exchange for an honest review!
November 14, 2025
3.5 ⭐️
December 6, 2025
A cozy, heart-warming read! I wish the switch to novel length would've come with more development for Natalie. I would've liked to see her stand up for herself when other people downplayed her allergies, but I get that this was focused more on the romance...
December 22, 2025
4.5 stars
Thank you the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Natalie has told her parents all about her (ahem...fake) boyfriend, aka her best friend Caden. She plans to bring him home for Christmas but he has an accident and sends his twin brother, Cole, aka her worst nightmare.
Natalie and Cole have such great banter and I adore how gone he is for her. In trying to protect their individual relationships with Caden, they've misled themselves into serious miscommunication that can only be solved by a series of forced interactions. Recommend if you love frenemies to lovers in an academic setting!
Thank you the author for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.
Natalie has told her parents all about her (ahem...fake) boyfriend, aka her best friend Caden. She plans to bring him home for Christmas but he has an accident and sends his twin brother, Cole, aka her worst nightmare.
Natalie and Cole have such great banter and I adore how gone he is for her. In trying to protect their individual relationships with Caden, they've misled themselves into serious miscommunication that can only be solved by a series of forced interactions. Recommend if you love frenemies to lovers in an academic setting!
October 24, 2025
“My chest aches. She’s not just beautiful. She’s everything.”
✔️holiday romance
✔️best friend’s brother
✔️enemies to lovers
✔️fake dating
✔️endometriosis rep
✔️grumpy hockey player MMC
✔️only one bed
This is such a cute, sweet holiday romance and I enjoyed reading it so much. This book is mostly closed door, there is one open door scene (it is the epilogue and takes place on their wedding night five years later) and it can be easily skipped if desired since it doesn’t take place during the main timeline. That said, the open door scene is well written and didn’t feel out of place at all. Natalie (FMC) and Cole (MMC) have been bickering for the last couple of years, ever since they met and he immediately showed her that he didn’t like her. But, what if that isn’t the truth, and along the way his real feelings were buried? She doesn’t remember how they actually met (though she thinks she does), and that truth will change everything when she finds out.
Natalie has had a crush on her best friend since they met when she was having a period emergency and he showed her kindness that no one else ever had before. When she needs a fake boyfriend to get her parents off her back he volunteers, but never makes a real move and she is determined to share her feelings on their trip to her hometown. However, when he has a medical emergency he volunteers his twin brother Cole to go in his place even though Cole and Natalie don’t get along. What comes next is pure Christmas magic and lighthearted fun. Forgiveness is a powerful thing, and I love that the MCs don’t dwell on the mistakes and half truths for too long, they process their emotions and move forward together.
The chronic illness and endometriosis representation in this book is a major part of the story (because it is a major part of the FMC’s life), and very well done. I love that Natalie has so much support in her life from her loved ones and that the MMC is such a green flag. He treats her like a human being and doesn’t make her feel different or less than. When she is embarrassed he doesn’t react negatively at all and proves to her that he is a safe person. It’s true that actions speak louder than words, and the MMC shows her throughout the story that he is serious about loving her and wanting to be her partner.
*Thank you so much to the author (Torie Jean) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
✔️holiday romance
✔️best friend’s brother
✔️enemies to lovers
✔️fake dating
✔️endometriosis rep
✔️grumpy hockey player MMC
✔️only one bed
This is such a cute, sweet holiday romance and I enjoyed reading it so much. This book is mostly closed door, there is one open door scene (it is the epilogue and takes place on their wedding night five years later) and it can be easily skipped if desired since it doesn’t take place during the main timeline. That said, the open door scene is well written and didn’t feel out of place at all. Natalie (FMC) and Cole (MMC) have been bickering for the last couple of years, ever since they met and he immediately showed her that he didn’t like her. But, what if that isn’t the truth, and along the way his real feelings were buried? She doesn’t remember how they actually met (though she thinks she does), and that truth will change everything when she finds out.
Natalie has had a crush on her best friend since they met when she was having a period emergency and he showed her kindness that no one else ever had before. When she needs a fake boyfriend to get her parents off her back he volunteers, but never makes a real move and she is determined to share her feelings on their trip to her hometown. However, when he has a medical emergency he volunteers his twin brother Cole to go in his place even though Cole and Natalie don’t get along. What comes next is pure Christmas magic and lighthearted fun. Forgiveness is a powerful thing, and I love that the MCs don’t dwell on the mistakes and half truths for too long, they process their emotions and move forward together.
The chronic illness and endometriosis representation in this book is a major part of the story (because it is a major part of the FMC’s life), and very well done. I love that Natalie has so much support in her life from her loved ones and that the MMC is such a green flag. He treats her like a human being and doesn’t make her feel different or less than. When she is embarrassed he doesn’t react negatively at all and proves to her that he is a safe person. It’s true that actions speak louder than words, and the MMC shows her throughout the story that he is serious about loving her and wanting to be her partner.
*Thank you so much to the author (Torie Jean) for the opportunity to ARC read this book! All opinions are my own*
November 4, 2025
This was my first holiday romance of the year and I loved it! I could tell from the very beginning that Cole liked Natalie and I loved watching as truths were told, secrets revealed and feelings were made known between the two. I would highly recommend this book if you like a holiday book with an MMC who is totally gone for the girl and amazing banter between the two. I couldn't stop smiling at their back and forth. I absolutely loved their chemistry. Watching Natalie's shock and confusion when she learned that she "fell" for the wrong twin because of a lie was thoroughly entertaining.
Representation of endometriosis and adenomyosis was on point. I felt for Natalie! It was so nice to see a guy be so supportive and helpful instead of dismissive. Natalie's diagnosis created one of the best meet cutes I have ever read! I could just imagine all of the emotions that were felt in this scene by Natalie and I loved how Cole handled it. He was so sweet to her when other's would not have been. All throughout the book he was respectful and attentive to her needs and wants. A complete swoon worthy book boyfriend!
At the beginning of the book, Caden is made out to be the best friend and puts down his brother to Natalie (all while knowing how Cole feels about her). Added great plot to the story but shady when it comes to being a brother and friend. I wish it had stated in the epilogue or end of book how Natalie and Caden's friendship fared through the whole ordeal. I would have really liked to see him apologize to Natalie and Cole for his part in all of the miscommunication.
Tropes:
*Best Friend's Twin Brother
*Hockey Player
*Holiday Vacation
*One Bed
*Fake Relationship
*endometriosis representation
*enemies to lovers
*pining/it's always been you vibes
*Closed door (except for epilogue)
Representation of endometriosis and adenomyosis was on point. I felt for Natalie! It was so nice to see a guy be so supportive and helpful instead of dismissive. Natalie's diagnosis created one of the best meet cutes I have ever read! I could just imagine all of the emotions that were felt in this scene by Natalie and I loved how Cole handled it. He was so sweet to her when other's would not have been. All throughout the book he was respectful and attentive to her needs and wants. A complete swoon worthy book boyfriend!
At the beginning of the book, Caden is made out to be the best friend and puts down his brother to Natalie (all while knowing how Cole feels about her). Added great plot to the story but shady when it comes to being a brother and friend. I wish it had stated in the epilogue or end of book how Natalie and Caden's friendship fared through the whole ordeal. I would have really liked to see him apologize to Natalie and Cole for his part in all of the miscommunication.
Tropes:
*Best Friend's Twin Brother
*Hockey Player
*Holiday Vacation
*One Bed
*Fake Relationship
*endometriosis representation
*enemies to lovers
*pining/it's always been you vibes
*Closed door (except for epilogue)
November 1, 2025
I received a review copy. These are my thoughts:
Natalie is going home for Christmas and is taking Caden, her best friend/crush and fake boyfriend, with her. The only problem is that at the last minute, he suffers an accident and is unable to join her. The solution: send his twin brother Cole in his place. Easier said than done, since Nathalie can’t stand Cole but since she’s been lying to her parents for the last 3 years about having a boyfriend, she has no choice. Nothing is quite as it seems and Nathalie will soon find that there is more to hockey captain and “the prince of blood” than meets the eye.
This was so cute!! Nathalie was so relatable - she was a bit of a hot mess: she was an over thinker, suffered from ADHD, endometriosis and adenomyosis, which meant she experienced a lot of physical pain and heavy bleeding, leading her to a fair share of embarrassing moments. Cole was a prince! He saw her in a way no one ever had and his small gestures spoke volumes. He also gets bonus points for not being afraid of periods!
Even though this was closed door (except for the epilogue), Torie writes chemistry and tension between the main characters in such a way that you don’t miss the more explicite spice, through naughty thoughts, sexual innuendo and cheeky banter.
They were soulmate coded and I loved that the spirit and magic of Christmas got them together - through lot’s of mishaps, flirty banter and sweet moments.
If you’re looking for a short and cute Christmas romance, then do add this one to your TBR!! Plus, the cover is so pretty!
[Spice: 1.5/5 - closed door but with naughty thoughts and sexual innuendo and an open door epilogue]
Natalie is going home for Christmas and is taking Caden, her best friend/crush and fake boyfriend, with her. The only problem is that at the last minute, he suffers an accident and is unable to join her. The solution: send his twin brother Cole in his place. Easier said than done, since Nathalie can’t stand Cole but since she’s been lying to her parents for the last 3 years about having a boyfriend, she has no choice. Nothing is quite as it seems and Nathalie will soon find that there is more to hockey captain and “the prince of blood” than meets the eye.
This was so cute!! Nathalie was so relatable - she was a bit of a hot mess: she was an over thinker, suffered from ADHD, endometriosis and adenomyosis, which meant she experienced a lot of physical pain and heavy bleeding, leading her to a fair share of embarrassing moments. Cole was a prince! He saw her in a way no one ever had and his small gestures spoke volumes. He also gets bonus points for not being afraid of periods!
Even though this was closed door (except for the epilogue), Torie writes chemistry and tension between the main characters in such a way that you don’t miss the more explicite spice, through naughty thoughts, sexual innuendo and cheeky banter.
They were soulmate coded and I loved that the spirit and magic of Christmas got them together - through lot’s of mishaps, flirty banter and sweet moments.
If you’re looking for a short and cute Christmas romance, then do add this one to your TBR!! Plus, the cover is so pretty!
[Spice: 1.5/5 - closed door but with naughty thoughts and sexual innuendo and an open door epilogue]
November 1, 2025
Rep: FMC with endometriosis, adenomyosis, food allergies (peanut), & possible undiagnosed ADHD; SC with ADHD
My Reading Journey:
Two nights ago: OMGGGGGGGGGG. Just started this and it’s amazingggggg! I’m only stopping because it’s 1AM and I need to avoid triggering PEM, but I don’t want to put it down!
The next day: *Utterly devoured the rest.* I read 67% of it in one sitting and immediately finished the rest as soon as I could. It was the perfect cozy escape while also such an affirming read about life with chronic illness.
Final thoughts: This novel was an absolute delight. Cole and Natalie’s sizzling chemistry and playful banter had me squealing and laughing the entire time. Torie Jean’s expansion from her earlier novella was perfection—I only wish it were longer because I could happily live in their world forever. It completely broke my reading slump.
Tropes:
❄️ Enemies to lovers
🩷 Only one bed
❄️ Fake dating
🩷 Soulmates
❄️ Endometriosis & adenomyosis rep
🩷 Best friend’s twin brother
❄️ Captain of the hockey team
CW: panic attack, divorce, adult language, heavy & painful menstruation, explicit content
My Reading Journey:
Two nights ago: OMGGGGGGGGGG. Just started this and it’s amazingggggg! I’m only stopping because it’s 1AM and I need to avoid triggering PEM, but I don’t want to put it down!
The next day: *Utterly devoured the rest.* I read 67% of it in one sitting and immediately finished the rest as soon as I could. It was the perfect cozy escape while also such an affirming read about life with chronic illness.
Final thoughts: This novel was an absolute delight. Cole and Natalie’s sizzling chemistry and playful banter had me squealing and laughing the entire time. Torie Jean’s expansion from her earlier novella was perfection—I only wish it were longer because I could happily live in their world forever. It completely broke my reading slump.
Tropes:
❄️ Enemies to lovers
🩷 Only one bed
❄️ Fake dating
🩷 Soulmates
❄️ Endometriosis & adenomyosis rep
🩷 Best friend’s twin brother
❄️ Captain of the hockey team
CW: panic attack, divorce, adult language, heavy & painful menstruation, explicit content
November 29, 2025
The Holidate Switch - Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
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FEATURES:
-Contemporary Romance
-Endometriosis Rep
-Fake Dating
-Verbal Sparring
-Loads of Foot-kicking Swoon
-Years Of Pining
-Funny Texts with supportive bestie
.
WHY 5/5: Torie Jean always manages to balance swoon, humor, and tender moments all while crafting well-developed characters that are trying to balance really hard things.
.
I spent so much of this book kicking my feet - between the hilarious verbal sparring and a man that was down so bad, I simply had to swoon.
.
Torie's books also always offer insight into the life of someone with chronic illness: The vast physical tolls these life long struggles take, but also the mental and emotional tolls. This character often fears she is “too much” because of her illness and worries that it makes her less worthy of love or friendship.
.
However, Torie goes above and beyond chronic illness rep. She always offers hope for her characters (and readers) with chronic illness. Her books seem to say, “You are seen, you are not alone, and you are worthy of love.”
.
If you are looking for a swoony and hopeful book that is set at Christmas time: this is for you!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
.
FEATURES:
-Contemporary Romance
-Endometriosis Rep
-Fake Dating
-Verbal Sparring
-Loads of Foot-kicking Swoon
-Years Of Pining
-Funny Texts with supportive bestie
.
WHY 5/5: Torie Jean always manages to balance swoon, humor, and tender moments all while crafting well-developed characters that are trying to balance really hard things.
.
I spent so much of this book kicking my feet - between the hilarious verbal sparring and a man that was down so bad, I simply had to swoon.
.
Torie's books also always offer insight into the life of someone with chronic illness: The vast physical tolls these life long struggles take, but also the mental and emotional tolls. This character often fears she is “too much” because of her illness and worries that it makes her less worthy of love or friendship.
.
However, Torie goes above and beyond chronic illness rep. She always offers hope for her characters (and readers) with chronic illness. Her books seem to say, “You are seen, you are not alone, and you are worthy of love.”
.
If you are looking for a swoony and hopeful book that is set at Christmas time: this is for you!
January 8, 2026
One aspect of romance novels that I don't love is when there is a lot of fighting, breaking up, or if it just takes a long time for the MCs to realize they are perfect for each other. If you are like me, then you will LOVE The Holidate Switch. This is basically just a story of two people who are absolutely nuts for each other and spend the whole book being in love. Natalie is in love with Caden who has been pretending to be her boyfriend to placate her parents for months. On the eve of a holiday visit to continue the charade Caden breaks his leg and his identical twin Cole steps in as a replacement. The only problem is Natalie and Cole can't stand each other, or so they think. This is exactly the nostalgic, magic-filled, technicolor, swoony holiday romance that we all need in our lives. It covers all the best tropes: grumpy/sunshine, enemies to lovers, twins shenanigans, only one bed, and introduces some new ones that I would love to see in more stories, like wreath erotica and pajama sharing. The banter is elite and this book is just as funny as it is romantic. Definitely add this to your holiday TBR!
October 25, 2025
I literally read this book in like three hours. I’m fully aware that it’s the end of spooky season, but I saw this advertised on my Instagram for you page, and was instantly hooked on the premise.
This book is very short. It’s actually one of the most shortest romance books I’ve read. I also did find out that it was originally published as a novella.
It is predictable, but in the cute and fun way. It’s a sweet and easy novel to read. A great book to read for the holidays, just if you need something in between series, or just something fun. I think of it as a romance Hallmark movie but with more adult language and spicy scene(s) (there’s only one spice scene at the end during the epilogue).
I can also see how people probably would rate this lower since it is very short so it feels like it’s rushed, but the our main couple was adorable so I can forgive that. 🤪
Joking aside, I think the author did a pretty pleasant job with this book. I had a good time reading. It was light, cute, and fluffy read
This book is very short. It’s actually one of the most shortest romance books I’ve read. I also did find out that it was originally published as a novella.
It is predictable, but in the cute and fun way. It’s a sweet and easy novel to read. A great book to read for the holidays, just if you need something in between series, or just something fun. I think of it as a romance Hallmark movie but with more adult language and spicy scene(s) (there’s only one spice scene at the end during the epilogue).
I can also see how people probably would rate this lower since it is very short so it feels like it’s rushed, but the our main couple was adorable so I can forgive that. 🤪
Joking aside, I think the author did a pretty pleasant job with this book. I had a good time reading. It was light, cute, and fluffy read
December 7, 2025
This was just too silly. Your best friends with someone for years, you are in love with him and you know literally nothing real about him? It was just too goofy. It definitely had some sweet moments, which I appreciated and I love a good “overheard something and took it completely wrong” situation, but I just couldn’t handle Natalie. The way she spoke and the things she thought didn’t feel like a real person (Cole did too) and she was very immature and fickle. Love the one you’re with I guess. One twin or the other, doesn’t matter. Of course it could have been the Salem witch family curse that brought them together and made them fall in love instantly even though she doesn’t know him at all and thought he was his brother for years… seriously some parts of this were so incredibly random that it was funny in a “this is too ridiculous” kind of way.
Overall, I definitely didn’t hate it as a whole, but I strongly disliked parts of it. I do think this is one of those “don’t take it at all seriously / not actually good, but a guilty pleasure” kind of books so read it if that’s your thing!
Overall, I definitely didn’t hate it as a whole, but I strongly disliked parts of it. I do think this is one of those “don’t take it at all seriously / not actually good, but a guilty pleasure” kind of books so read it if that’s your thing!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 15, 2025
This book was such a delight, and was the perfect cozy holiday read. It was just so sweet and made me kick my feet and giggle so many times.
Natalie is bringing her fake boyfriend/best friend Caden home for the holidays, and she thinks this will finally be the year Caden reciprocates her one sided feelings. When Caden is unable to go with Natalie due to an injury, his twin brother Cole takes his place instead. Natalie already has beef with Cole. She thinks he’s an arrogant cold jerk who hates her. But the more time she spends with Cole as they continue their ruse, the more she realizes she doesn’t know him at all.
I’m a sucker for the fake dating trope (helloooooo To all the boys I’ve loved before), and the trope here was done SO well. Cole Sinclair, the man you are! New book boyfriend perhaps….. You will LOVE The Holidate Switch if you love:
- Fake dating
- Best friend’s brother
- One bed
- A touch of hockey
- Quirky, relatable, lovable fmc
- Endometriosis rep
- Own voices
This is the first Torie Jean book I’ve EVER read and it will certainly not be my last.
Natalie is bringing her fake boyfriend/best friend Caden home for the holidays, and she thinks this will finally be the year Caden reciprocates her one sided feelings. When Caden is unable to go with Natalie due to an injury, his twin brother Cole takes his place instead. Natalie already has beef with Cole. She thinks he’s an arrogant cold jerk who hates her. But the more time she spends with Cole as they continue their ruse, the more she realizes she doesn’t know him at all.
I’m a sucker for the fake dating trope (helloooooo To all the boys I’ve loved before), and the trope here was done SO well. Cole Sinclair, the man you are! New book boyfriend perhaps….. You will LOVE The Holidate Switch if you love:
- Fake dating
- Best friend’s brother
- One bed
- A touch of hockey
- Quirky, relatable, lovable fmc
- Endometriosis rep
- Own voices
This is the first Torie Jean book I’ve EVER read and it will certainly not be my last.
October 25, 2025
This book is amazingly CUTE! I meant to read it slowly but it was so good, I finished it in one sitting.
The pining and building tension is fabulous:) I love how Natalie, the FMC, has a big personality. She is tall with red hair and isn't a wallflower. She is soo loveable. And Cole, the MMC, is adorable. He has harbored a crush on Natalie for years and takes his chance to woe her when he pretends to be her boyfriend in place of his twin brother.
This book is great as a fall read or to get your ready for the holiday season. I need to visit Maine during the holidays because now I have wanderlust.
As always I love how Torie Jean reps endometriosis! As a endo girlie, it warms my heart to see a girl with my illness find love and happiness.
*Thanks to the author, Torie Jean, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and given freely.*
The pining and building tension is fabulous:) I love how Natalie, the FMC, has a big personality. She is tall with red hair and isn't a wallflower. She is soo loveable. And Cole, the MMC, is adorable. He has harbored a crush on Natalie for years and takes his chance to woe her when he pretends to be her boyfriend in place of his twin brother.
This book is great as a fall read or to get your ready for the holiday season. I need to visit Maine during the holidays because now I have wanderlust.
As always I love how Torie Jean reps endometriosis! As a endo girlie, it warms my heart to see a girl with my illness find love and happiness.
*Thanks to the author, Torie Jean, for an advanced readers copy in exchange for my honest opinion. All opinions are my own and given freely.*
October 26, 2025
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC copy!
I loved this book so much! This was the first novel I have read of Tori’s and will absolutely be reading more of her work! If you love a grumpy x sunshine x hockey x fake dating x Christmas novel that is light hearted, fun, and will have you shrieking in glee (often) this is perfect!
Tropes:
- hate to lovers
- only one bed (LOVED this scene!)
- fake dating
- soulmates
- endometriosis and adenmyosis rep
The characters were so well written and their chemistry was undeniable and incredibly cute. I loved the little plot twists with Cole scattered throughout the book and loved that he turned about to be very different from what we initially thought! Lots of kicking and screaming and giggle from me not gonna lie.
The endo/period rep in this book was really well written and as an endo girlie myself it’s really nice to see these things talked about and normalised but also treated with care.
Thank you again to Tori for the arc!
I loved this book so much! This was the first novel I have read of Tori’s and will absolutely be reading more of her work! If you love a grumpy x sunshine x hockey x fake dating x Christmas novel that is light hearted, fun, and will have you shrieking in glee (often) this is perfect!
Tropes:
- hate to lovers
- only one bed (LOVED this scene!)
- fake dating
- soulmates
- endometriosis and adenmyosis rep
The characters were so well written and their chemistry was undeniable and incredibly cute. I loved the little plot twists with Cole scattered throughout the book and loved that he turned about to be very different from what we initially thought! Lots of kicking and screaming and giggle from me not gonna lie.
The endo/period rep in this book was really well written and as an endo girlie myself it’s really nice to see these things talked about and normalised but also treated with care.
Thank you again to Tori for the arc!
December 3, 2025
The smiles I smiled while reading the first half of this book 🤭 I giggled and I kicked my feet, allllll the things. Natalie is currently fake dating Caden but when something happens and Caden can’t go with her to her families for the holidays, he enlists his twin brother Cole to go with her. Cole and Natalie don’t get along. But, whose fault is that? I LOVE when the truth comes out about a person and it ends up being way better than expected. Oh and did I mention Cole plays Hockey? 🥵 Then once I got halfway through it the spark died. It was good but not as good as the first half. Cole and Natalie are super cute and I love how welcoming her family are. There is one steamy scene and it’s at the end. It read like every other steamy scene, if I can be completely honest here. At this point in my reading journey I can take those scenes or leave them 🤷🏻♀️ They all just seem to be the same.
December 13, 2025
"In the past, teasing her has been the only way for me to get her attention, but now other avenues exist. Getting her things that make her happy and taking care of her when she lets me are honestly preferable to me, anyway."
I finished this in a day and while it isn't long so it's not unusual, I finished it that fast because I was so invested and immediately pulled into the story. This is classic enemies to lovers where she thinks he hates her but he actually fell first with a mix of good old twins mix-up. I loved the MMC, Cole, and how in love he was. The FMC was a bit clueless at first but I think she was a lot of fun and was accepting of Cole even without knowing and only guessing the full story. I loved their meet cute and all of their moments later as they were fake dating and I think they had excellent communication once they cleared up the initial mix-up.
I finished this in a day and while it isn't long so it's not unusual, I finished it that fast because I was so invested and immediately pulled into the story. This is classic enemies to lovers where she thinks he hates her but he actually fell first with a mix of good old twins mix-up. I loved the MMC, Cole, and how in love he was. The FMC was a bit clueless at first but I think she was a lot of fun and was accepting of Cole even without knowing and only guessing the full story. I loved their meet cute and all of their moments later as they were fake dating and I think they had excellent communication once they cleared up the initial mix-up.
October 30, 2025
The Holidate Switch is a small town holiday romance with humor, heart, chronic illness representation, the cutest meet-cute, and some feet-kicking fake dating of the grumpy hockey player who hates you but also lowkey might be your soulmate. Natalie is in love with her best friend Caden, absolutely can’t stand his twin brother Cole, and it’s the most beautiful thing I’ve ever read.
I’m in love with Cole Sinclair. He’s someone who truly sees you, takes care of you no matter what, looks at you like you hung the moon, and be still my heart, I love the way this man advocates for Natalie’s allergy, especially as a Celiac girlie. Absolute swoon! I found Natalie’s character deeply relatable in so many ways, but especially in the lived experience chronic illness rep. Natalie has endometriosis and adenomyosis, and every symptom she has, literally same girl. I find so much comfort in Torie’s books that I can’t find anywhere else. After reading this novel, I can honestly say that I don’t think I’ve ever felt more seen as a fellow Endo sister.
Reading the Holidate Switch felt like a cozy hug wrapped up in holiday magic, hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies. This was one of the sweetest holiday romances I’ve ever read, and you can be assured this will be at the top of my annual Christmas rereads.
Thank you so much to Torie Jean for a copy of this eARC!
I’m in love with Cole Sinclair. He’s someone who truly sees you, takes care of you no matter what, looks at you like you hung the moon, and be still my heart, I love the way this man advocates for Natalie’s allergy, especially as a Celiac girlie. Absolute swoon! I found Natalie’s character deeply relatable in so many ways, but especially in the lived experience chronic illness rep. Natalie has endometriosis and adenomyosis, and every symptom she has, literally same girl. I find so much comfort in Torie’s books that I can’t find anywhere else. After reading this novel, I can honestly say that I don’t think I’ve ever felt more seen as a fellow Endo sister.
Reading the Holidate Switch felt like a cozy hug wrapped up in holiday magic, hot cocoa and freshly baked cookies. This was one of the sweetest holiday romances I’ve ever read, and you can be assured this will be at the top of my annual Christmas rereads.
Thank you so much to Torie Jean for a copy of this eARC!
October 31, 2025
When I tell you this book has banter to die for! I adore the way Torie writes tension and the building up until that sweet, sweet moment and trust this is the perfect winter time / Christmas book. It is incredibly written in pacing and characters' arcs. This is super light hearted and fluffy with the spicy scene in the epilogue for those who suffer with their endometriosis or those who prefer to not read spice so they can skip but if you're a fan of spice, fear not Torie makes the wait worth it!
The Endometriosis and adenomyosis representation is beautifully written and we get to see how cared for the fmc is. This mmc isn't scared of a period or caring for his girl just how it should be.
Fair warning, you will fall in love with both mmc and fmc and not want to choose between them, lucky us we don't have to.
Tropes:
🎄 Hate-to-lovers
🎅 Only one bed
☕️ Fake dating
☃️ Soulmates
🎁 Christmas in Maine
💛 Endometriosis & Adenomyosis rep
The Endometriosis and adenomyosis representation is beautifully written and we get to see how cared for the fmc is. This mmc isn't scared of a period or caring for his girl just how it should be.
Fair warning, you will fall in love with both mmc and fmc and not want to choose between them, lucky us we don't have to.
Tropes:
🎄 Hate-to-lovers
🎅 Only one bed
☕️ Fake dating
☃️ Soulmates
🎁 Christmas in Maine
💛 Endometriosis & Adenomyosis rep
January 15, 2026
This was a sweet holiday romance book filled with fake dating and enemies-to-lovers/ The story of Natalie, our heroine, needing to bring home a date to keep her parents pleased, and gets suck with her fake boyfriend's twin after he gets injured. It was really nice to see a disability properly portrayed by Natalie as she openly talks about it, to us, the reader. The romance part was good, especially as we saw the two open up to each other and make realizations about each other. There wasn't too much spice until the end. The plot did seem too short, and I wished that there was more development between the two, so it felt more genuine. Overall, this was an ok holiday romance with a good story but needing some more development.
December 7, 2025
The art of Torie Jean lives on!
Thank you Torie for the e-arc, I absolutely love you and your work so very much!
I had so much fun with this novella, Cole and Natalie are everything.
This was such an interesting premise and there is nothing I enjoy more than the underdog sibling finally getting a happy ending. Natalie and Cole are the sweetest mismatch couple. This is definitely a holiday novella I will find myself rereading in upcoming years!
Also Caden is such an asshole. I said what I said. Team Cole all the way!!
Thank you Torie for the e-arc, I absolutely love you and your work so very much!
I had so much fun with this novella, Cole and Natalie are everything.
This was such an interesting premise and there is nothing I enjoy more than the underdog sibling finally getting a happy ending. Natalie and Cole are the sweetest mismatch couple. This is definitely a holiday novella I will find myself rereading in upcoming years!
Also Caden is such an asshole. I said what I said. Team Cole all the way!!
January 1, 2026
This book didn’t quite know what it wanted to be in parts of it. I loved the voicing but the story was a bit messy- he’s a twin, there’s a case of mistaken identity, they’re fake dating, they’re fated soul mates due to a curse, it’s a Christmas book.
Idk fam. There were parts that were charming but then there were the parts that tried to push this story together and at times it didn’t make sense. I wanted to love it so much!
Idk fam. There were parts that were charming but then there were the parts that tried to push this story together and at times it didn’t make sense. I wanted to love it so much!
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