The Holiday Clause

Hideaway Harbor #5

by Lydia Michaels

A Hideaway Harbor holiday rom-com from bestselling & award-winning author Lydia Michaels!

Three billionaire brothers. One ultimatum. And a childhood best friend who just became the prize.

The Christmas rush began the moment Magnus Hawthorne informed his sons that his billion-dollar empire would come with one hell of a holiday clause—whoever marries first inherits everything.

Too bad they all want the same woman.

Wren Wilde, Hideaway Harbor’s unintentional cat lady, is sick of bossy Hawthorne men controlling her non-existent love life. After years of their territorial interference, she’s finally going after what she wants. But Greyson, Soren, and Logan have other plans—one of them must marry, and all three brothers want Wren.

With no clue how her boring life turned into a billion-dollar competition, Wren refuses to play along. But when three alpha males turn on the holiday charm and refuse to take no for an answer, her defenses crumble.

Wren must decide which brother wins, and this Christmas, her choice comes down to love.

“A steamy, small-town, holiday romance with an unforgettable love triangle that’s guaranteed to heat up readers’ hearts this winter!”

Protector • Three Possessive Alpha Males • Billionaire Brothers • Grumpy/Sunshine • Holiday Romance • Small-Town • Rom-Com • Friends-to-Lovers • Long-Time Crush • First Love • Virgin • Christmas Ultimatum • Holiday Rush • Christmas Competition • Steamy Romance • Childhood Best Friend • Family Rivalry • Won't Take No for an Answer

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Holiday, Holiday Romance, Contemporary, Small Town Romance, Slow Burn

494 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 18, 2025

About the author

Lydia Michaels is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than forty novels. She writes heart-clenching, unpredictable romance with dark elements and high heat. Her work is character-driven and bursting with broken heroes and badass females. With a sweet spot for overbearing, territorial types, her deeply emotional books are spicy, emotionally satisfying, and guaranteed to leave readers with many book hangovers.

Lydia is the consecutive winner of the 2018 & 2019 Author of the Year Award from Happenings Media and the recipient of the 2014 Best Author Award from the Courier Times. She has been featured by USA Today, Romantic Times Magazine, the Women in Publishing Summit, and more.

Michaels has been a recognized presence in the author community since starting her career in 2007. She is the CEO of LMC Consulting and a certified author coach specializing in characterization and plot development. She takes great joy in hosting author events celebrating diversity within the book industry. She has bridged connections among many authors since founding renowned events such as the East Coast Author Convention and the Annual Behind the Keys Author Retreat. However, the gem of her work is, by far, her extensive backlist (see LydiaMichaelsBooks.com).

She is happily married to her childhood sweetheart. Her favorite things include cooking Italian cuisine, hosting extravagant dinner parties, sipping martinis, listening to her husband play piano, and escaping to her coastal home on the Jersey Shore. She’s an LGBTQ ally, a BLM supporter, and a firm believer that the patriarchy must burn (women’s rights are human rights).

You can follow Lydia on Instagram, TikTok, & Facebook!
Instagram: @lydia_michaels_books
Facebook: @LydiaMichaels
TikTok: @LydiaMichaels

Reviews

[Anya Kay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Why choose? Because there can be only one.
She must choose.

Wren and the Hawthorne brothers grew up together. Their mothers were best friends, but when tragedy struck fifteen years ago and the dads didn’t step up, they only had each other. The brothers became her protectors and made a rule: none of them would pursue her.

Then comes the Christmas Clause. If any brother wants to inherit the billion-dollar family business, he must be married by Christmas. Best way to get married quickly? Ask your best friend.

Three brothers:
Logan – the youngest and her closest friend, who still needs to prove himself in the business.
Soren – the debonair flirt and future CEO.
Greyson – the oldest, living in a secluded cabin and uninterested in running the company.

Wren is a free spirit who believes in the healing power of nature and is the town’s cat lady. She runs The Haven, a successful business offering yoga classes and retreats. She’s known the brothers all her life and is not interested in their marriage game. One feels too much like family, another wants a traditional wife, and the last locks away his emotions and doesn’t open up to anyone.

This is Lydia Michaels. She writes fire, spice, and emotion in a way that draws you in. You’ll feel the aching longing of these characters and hope that your choice is Wren’s choice too.

Breathtaking, heart-aching quotes:
“Wren embodied emotion and wouldn’t settle for anything short of love. She deserved the absolute best. None of them were good enough for her.”

“I don’t need protection. I need affection.”

Her: “What do you feel for me?”
Him: “Everything! Too much.” He pressed a fist to his chest. “You touch me, and I forget how to breathe.”

Tropes: holiday romance, billionaire romance, billionaire brothers, marriage of convenience, family rivalry, first love, childhood friends-to-lovers, “Mine” possessiveness.

Highlights: splinters, kitten in a pocket, handyman moments, new Christmas traditions, private massage.

If you’re a fan of Lydia Michaels or love steamy holiday romances with emotional depth, The Holiday Clause will be your next obsession.

[Katie · Rating 3 out of 5]

I have mixed feelings with this book and I'm unsure on what I actually feel for it.

I struggled with the writing style, all the other books in this series has been written in 1st person whereas this one was written in 3rd. As a result, I didn't feel like I connected to the characters as much as I would have.

I had a few issues with how one of the MMC's conducted himself both in the past and present. I didn't feel he had redeemed himself enough.

I loved the characters of Wren and Bodhi and I loved learning more about The Haven. The town doesn't feature as much as the other books and I missed it.

Overall, it was an alright read but a bit long - this one is the longest read at nearly 500 pages.

[Kimberley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Holiday Clause is set in the dreamy town of Hideaway Harbour and is part of the Christmas At Hideaway Harbour series. This one features Wren and the Hawthorne brothers, Greyson, Soren and Logan. It isn’t a why choose romance it is about three brothers needing to find a wife to gain their inheritance and Wren is their childhood friend. It does cover some heavy topics like death of a loved one so please be aware if this is a trigger especially in a holiday romance. It was an enjoyable read. I received a complementary copy from the author.

[Shanna Gilbert · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️1/2


- love triangle
-3 billionaire brothers
-small town
-grumpy/sunshine
-friends to lovers
-eccentric side characters


Three billionaire brothers (Logan, Soren & Greyson) have grown up with Wren as their best friend. They made a pact as teenagers that she was off limits.

Wren runs a yoga retreat and is known as the town “cat lady”. Shes had a crush on one of the brothers for years.

Now the brother’s father is dying. In his will he leaves his fortune to the brother that gets married before he dies. This launches everything into chaos.

This book was more layered than your average Christmas romcom. It is definitely funny with all of the quirky side characters.

There was tension and slow burn passion, an interesting plot and grief and healing. It’s one of my favorite holiday books of the year!

[Shannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

So this is the first book I’ve read in the Hideaway Harbor Christmas romance series and I loved it even though, or maybe because, it was so different than any romance I have read before. I absolutely loved Wren and her soothing and calming effect on all those around her and yet I was glad that she stood up for herself and what she wants or needs with the encouragement of her best friend. Speaking of her best friend, the romance writer, Jocelyn, she is spicy and hilarious. And the men/brothers in this book do not disappoint either: Logan is kind and thoughtful, Soren is charming and goes after what he wants with gusto, and Greyson, well he’s everything you’d want in the brooding, grief-stricken book boyfriend who pines and longs for his childhood crush until the time finally comes for them to be together so many years later. Thank you to Lydia Michaels for the opportunity to read this early.

[Taylor Mae · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three billionaire brothers, one childhood best friend, and an ultimatum. Their father, Magnus, is ill and informs his sons that whoever marries first will inherit the company. Of course, the first woman they all think of is Wren. She has the impossible decision of picking one, but she wants it to be true love.

Logan, the golden retriever, is the youngest Hawthorne brother, closest to Wren's age. He's also the gentleman, sweet and gentle.

Soren is driven, determined, and gives major alpha vibes. He's a total first who will stop at nothing to be the future CEO.

Then there is Greyson, the oldest, also known as the broody woodsman. He spends his time isolated in his cabin and has no interest in running the family company.

Wren has had a non-existent love life and is ready to change that. Reluctantly, she agrees to go on a date with both Logan and Soren, all while harboring feelings for Greyson. Who will she choose?

"The Holiday Clause" was funny, cute, spicy, but also deals with loss. It was a fun story that kept my interest the entire time!

[Jessica Young · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by Lydia Michaels and I really enjoyed it. It is written not completely in a duel perspective but I did enjoy the writing style. If you love Grumpy Sunshine this is the book in the series Hideaway Harbor that you want to read. Greyson is the biggest grump there is while Wren is all Sunshine and Rainbows 🌈. They have grown up together and Grey (ALL 3 Hawthorne boys, really) made Wrens life hard to grow up in a small town in the dating department. Now they are all grown up with an ultimatum and Wren is stuck in the middle of all 3 boys affection because of their history. There are deep feelings that have been pushed down between Wren and Grey and now they have to work through it. Grey is definitely an emotionally stunted man at the beginning; however, he learns that if he can’t express his feelings to Wren then he might lose her. Watching them work through the history, hurt, and love made for a great story. Wren stuck to herself and I admired her for that.

We were introduced to Wrens best friend Jocelyn who makes everything interesting. Definitely interested to see what could be developing between Jocelyn and Soren.

Hopefully more to come in Hideaway Harbor from the Hawthorne boys!!

[Sorina · Rating 5 out of 5]

"The Holiday Clause" by Lydia Michaels is part of Hideaway Harbor.

I received a digital copy of the book from the author.
Opinions from this review are completely my own.

I enjoyed all the books in this series and this one is my absolute favorite.
The prologue takes place a year later and it was the perfect way of making me want to read this book.

Wren and the Hawthorne brothers were friends since childhood and they unfortunately lost their mothers (that were friends) at the same time.
The brothers were very protective of her and scared away anyone interested in dating her.
Now they found out that the first one to get married will inherit the family business and they all want Wren.

This is the opposite of a why choose story, as the brothers, al least 2 of them, do their best to convince Wren to choose them.
The brothers are different and only one of them already has Wren's heart.
Wren's friend and spicy Viking romance writer described the brothers perfectly: Greyson is the reclusive woodsman, Logan is the Alpha and Soren, the golden retriever.

I had a great time reading the story and there were some many sweet moments between Wren and the brother that she ends up with at the end.
The romance is a slow burn, they have such great chemistry and the spice is really good.
But there are also sweet moments like when she takes care of him when he's sick.

As this takes place at the same time as the other books in the series, there are some town activities that we see from a different perspective and that was very interesting.
There are also some hints on who is Lady Lovewatch.

If you liked the other books in the series, I am sure you will also enjoy this one.

[AW · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a part of the Hideaway Harbor interconnected standalone series. Wren has known Greyson, Soren, and Logan since they were kids but this Christmas, things get complicated. A deadline's been set for the billionaire brothers: marry or lose the family business. Suddenly, Wren isn't just their best friend, she's the prize in a holiday competition that's equal parts steamy and chaotic.

This book embraces the tropes of possessive alpha males, grumpy/sunshine tension, and a love triangle. The witty banter and fast-paced storytelling make it an engaging read, while the small-town setting adds a touch of charm. Wren’s long-standing crush and virgin status heighten the tension, especially when none of the brothers are willing to back down.

If you like your holiday romances with a side of family rivalry, protector vibes, and a heroine who finally gets her shot at first love, this one delivers.

Huge thanks to Lydia Michaels for the ARC copy!

[Tiffany ✨️ Bergamot Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wren has grown up with the Hawthorne boys. She shares their past, their friendship, and their trauma. It isn't until the boys father puts a stipulation in his will that they must marry to have the business stay in the family, that they all decide Wren is their perfect bride. Wren isn't interested in the wealth and connections though, she only wants love, and the one brother that won't give it to her.

*****

Yet another fantastic book in the Hideaway Harbor series! This one is on the longer side, but it gives a lot of time for Wren to really examine her emotions, years of hurt and comfort, and what she's willing to accept from her Hawthorne man.

I genuinely adored how closely Wren was steeped in her cute hippie family while holding a success wellness retreat, when the Hawthorne brothers were anything but. Their unlikely friendships were sweet and genuine and showcased how hard it can be for friends to try for something more - especially with questionable intent. I kind of loved that the Hawthorn brothers weren't perfect leads. They had moments of being toxic, waving red flags, and highlighting the broken home they were raised in while thinking they could promise her a future.

Instead we get the one man who constantly pushed her away for what her perceived as her own good, yet always showed up for her in the little ways. It was sweet and devastating and their hard-won love made the entire novel. Also the best friend Jocelyn? Unhinged and one of my favourite comic reliefs of the book, even if she had major boundary issues! All in all this one is fun, and fits perfectly alongside the rest of the series.

*****

Thank you to the author, Lydia Michaels, for the advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Meghan Livingston · Rating 3 out of 5]

a cutie christmas smut for book club. Not earth shattering but kept me interested!

[Dani (dtieds_allbookedup) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thanks to Lydia Michaels for the #gifted copy of this book.

Summary: The Holiday Clause includes an ultimatum from the Hawthorne brothers' father stating that unless one of them gets married, none of them will inherit the family company. Automatically, they think of their long-time friend, Wren. With her world turned completely upside down by the brothers' pursuit, Wren must choose which brother will win her heart, but she has decided to choose love.

My Thoughts: The Holiday Clause was the next installment in the Hideaway Harbor series. I loved the concept of these life-long friends tiptoeing around friendship to more as the Hawthorne brothers try desperately to keep the company in the family. It was enjoyable to see how Wren had a different relationship with each brother and how that played out in a "date" setting. Despite the many hilarious moments, the story also weaves in beautiful explorations of sibling bonds and the grief that follows the loss of a loved one. I won’t spoil which brother wins Wren’s heart, but I was delighted to discover it was the one I’d been cheering for from the very beginning. I hope we get to see more of the Hawthorne brothers in future books!

What You'll Find:
Billionaire Brothers
Christmas Ultimatum
Grumpy Sunshine
First Love
"It's always been you"
Friends to Lovers
Family Rivalry

[Cassie C · Rating 3 out of 5]

This being the last book in the Hideaway Harbor series that I got around to reading, it had the disadvantage of me comparing it to all the other book the whole time. For me, I wanted a little bit more of the book to actually take place in the town and involve the townspeople.
I did appreciate how strong and independent that Wren was as a character. I also liked how we saw why Greyson was the way he was due to losing his mom.
That being said, I had a hard time liking Greyson as the male lead. He was too overprotective and overbearing for my taste. I know that others will find this attractive, but for me, it was too much.
I also really didn’t like Soren as a potential match for Wren. He came off as a giant jerk (to put it mildly). To be honest, I think I liked Logan the most as a potential match, as he seemed the most caring and considerate of the brothers, but he was given the least attention.
One of the strengths of the book was the spice. For someone looking for lots of spicy time, they are sure to be satisfied with this book.
Many thanks to Lydia Michaels for the chance to read this book early and give my honest opinion of it.

[Kirsty · Rating 5 out of 5]

HOLY. JOLLY. CHAOS. The Holiday Clause is the exact kind of unhinged, steamy, small-town Christmas candy I want dumped straight into my stocking every year. Lydia Michaels did not come to play—she came to throw us into a blizzard of billionaire brothers, one outrageous ultimatum, and a heroine who suddenly becomes the most sought-after woman in Hideaway Harbor. And I devoured every single second of it.

Wren Wilde?? My queen. My chaotic, unintentional cat-lady goddess just minding her own business when BAM—Magnus Hawthorne drops the inheritance bomb and suddenly all three of his overbearing, possessive, alpha sons are stampeding after her like reindeer on an espresso drip. She didn’t ask for any of this, she didn’t want the attention, and yet these men will not stop circling like she hung the actual Christmas star.

Greyson, Soren, Logan—these brothers have NO CHILL and honestly? Bless them for it. The territorial energy, the grumpy-sunshine banter, the childhood-best-friend history, the “I’ve loved you forever but never said anything” tension—it’s just one big, delicious, slow-burn inferno wrapped in tinsel. Every time one of them turned on the holiday charm, I melted, so Wren never stood a chance.

The love triangle?? PERFECTION. Emotional, messy, addictive. Each man brings something different, something swoony, something that makes you scream “NO, HE’S THE ONE!” only to switch loyalties two chapters later. And the way the brothers compete—family rivalry, holiday antics, possessive declarations—it’s unhinged in the best possible rom-com way.

Wren trying so hard to keep her heart locked up while three Hawthorne men refuse to take no for an answer? ICONIC. Watching her unravel, blush, and finally let her guard down was honestly one of my favorite reading experiences this year.

This book is steamy. It’s funny. It’s heart-squeezing. It’s warm and festive and absolutely unputdownable.

A billionaire Christmas competition for the girl-next-door’s heart? Sign me up every. single. time.

[Dankinia · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in an interconnected series of standalone novels that all take place in the same small town. I'd recommend this if you are in the mood for a spicy holiday romance where childhood best friends become lovers.

Overall, I rate it 4⭐out of 5 based on the following: 🤩Enjoyment - 4; 👥Characters - 4; 📖Plot - 4; 🗺️Setting - 4; and🖋️Writing - 4 with the first 3 categories being most important.

What worked for me:
• How Wren's outlook on life and the holidays help the brothers cope with impending changes in their family
• The small town atmosphere, this is a town I want to visit

Finished Reading
11/18/2025

I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book from the author; however, all opinions are my own.

[Barbara Ronevich · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute Christmas story in the small town of Hideaway Harbor…A grumpy sunshine trope…definitely worth the read this holiday season…I received an ARC from the author… will look for more books by this author!

[Nikki McAbee · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love holiday books. This is a small town romance. I love it when the main characters finally get their head out there butts and realizes what they have right in front of them. I’m so happy how it ends. You will not be disappointed.

[Brooke · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐-> ♾️🌟
🌶️🌶️🌶


❄️ Billionaire Brothers Holiday Romance
✨️ 3 Possessive Alpha Males
❄️ Grumpy X Sunshine
✨️ Small Town
❄️ Friends To Lovers
✨️ Long Time Crush
❄️ First Love
✨️ Won't Take No For An Answer


✨️ 📚 ARC 📖 REVIEW ✨️

This book is unique in that there aren't 2 brothers competing but 3! Whomever marries first, gets the Billion $ Empire from their father. The twist is that they are all competing for the same woman, Wren. Wren refuses to play along with the brothers and their competition until all 3 brothers turn on the charm and refuse to take no for an answer. They will do whatever until one of them wins!

I loved Wren! She is chaotic, and unintentionally a cat lady but is a bit bumbarded when the three most protective men from her childhood come knocking. Not only are they protective, but overbearing alpha possessive men. She didn't ask for any of the circus, and didn't want the attention.

Wren had such a way with everyone around her, she had a soothing and calming vibe all around her. Even though she has a calming demeanor, I was so glad that she stuck up for herself! I love that she had Jocelyn, who was more than happy to tell her the truth and what's best for her from an outsiders perspective!

Wren had such a great outlook on life, and with the impending change in their lives, the small town holiday feels definitely help with such a big change coming. These brothers have ZERO CHILL. But I can't say that I don't love them for it! I love that they have that territorial energy. I loved seeing their childhood best friend history, and of course the grumpy x sunshine banter.

I cannot forget the tension between them because it was DELICIOUS! The I've loved you forever but just never said anything. I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the shoe to hit the fan! It was the perfect winter fire that kept on building with some beautiful tinsel wrapped all around.

Greyson or Grey is the oldest, and also known as the broody woodsman. He is a bit of a hermit in his cabin because he is still struggling with his grief. He doesn't want to run his fathers company, but he has more than a crush on Wren.

The love triangle eh square? Was such perfection ! Chef's Kiss👌! I was addicted to seeing how this emotional, messy scene was going to play out! All three men bring something different to the table, and it is definitely of the swoony matter! The way these men go all out, the holiday antics, possessive declarations all in this family rivalry. Don't get me wrong this is unhinged int the best of ways! This is why I love rom coms! They truly give me so much serotonin!

Wren tried so hard to not succumb to the charm of these men? I couldn't get enough! I loved seeing her slowly come into a place that she could let her guard down. With the steam, witty banter, festive feelings this book gave me sooo much more than I expected. I couldn't tear myself away while I was reading this. If ever there is a Billionaire Competition for a womans heart, I WILL STAND IN LINE FOR DAYS so that I can read it!!


Thank you 🫶🏻 to ✨️ Lydia Michaels ✨️ for the complimentary 📚 ARC 📚. ✨️ All opinions are my own, honest, and voluntary✨️.

[Chasity7474📚❤️]

I am not rating this book because I was not able to finish. It wasn’t for me but don’t let that stop you from giving it a chance.

[Ivy Blacke · Rating 4 out of 5]

Really enjoyed this read. The brothers were really funny, and seeing them stay united through everything shows that their mother still lives on.

[Angie (mushmysteriesandmore) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Still in Hideaway Harbour and the snow is still falling. Christmas is still on it’s way and suddenly an old billionaire at the end of his life issues an ultimatum to his three sons. The first to marry will be the one who inherits all. Grayson, Soren and Logan Hawthorne are now in a race to get married, and they all want the same girl. Their childhood best friend, Wren Wilde.

Wren runs The Haven, the local spa retreat and is also known as the local cat lady. She’s single and takes in many stray cats, most of which live at The Haven. She has been friends with the Hawthorne boys since she was a child and they grew up together, they lost their mothers in the same car accident and supported each other.

The blurb for this book makes it appear that all three brothers are in the race for Wren’s heart but in reality there is only one clear contender who has held her heart for years, and he’s yearned for her as well. I loved their connection, he was a proper possessive Alpha when it came to anyone around Wren, even including his own brothers.

This is a spicy series, but this book was EXCEPTIONALLY spicy so be warned. Wren and her beau get very hot and heavy on a regular basis so if you don’t like a lot of spice, this may not be for you. I’m usually on the middle of the scale for spice and I found this a little bit too much for me.

I still loved the book though and the storyline and characters made the whole thing come together extremely well.

[Johanna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was amazing! The author leads you on a journey. Magnus Hawthorne tells his sons that he’s changed his will and to inherit the company he owns they need to be married before he passes away. This lights a fire under Soren and Logan to admit they have at least some level of romantic feelings for Wren, their childhood friend/best friend respectively. Greyson isn’t as quick but lets his feelings be known nonetheless.

It doesn’t take too long to figure out she doesn’t have reciprocal feelings for Logan. They are just too enmeshed in the friendship world. He takes it a little hard but eventually works through his feelings on the matter and their relationship returns to what it was.

That just leaves Soren and Greyson.

Soren is flirty, over the top, major BDE, and likes to spoil her. Very alpha male but not in a bad way. He is also a very good guy.

Greyson is quiet, broody, and has a very dominating presence. He is also sweet and kind hearted to everyone around him.

The author doesn’t tell you who she chooses in the blurb so I won’t give it away but I am very pleased with the coupling and very much enjoyed their story. Long time friends to forever partners in life and love.

Wren though! Woo!! I love her so much! She is a force of light and love. She takes care of her father who became a broken shell of a human after her mom died, she runs her dream business. She gets to live a life blended with the “hippie” lifestyle her father and aunt (his sister) live while also chasing her dreams of a beautiful hotel with spa and wellness studio to honor her moms legacy.

Is it any wonder that all three Hawthorne brothers are at her mercy?

And we got to see a lot of Wrens BFF Jocelyn in this story also! OMG is she a hoot! Literally no filter on her and a romance author to boot! Ohh I hope we get her story!

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

How wonderfully this book does delight upon a heavenly Christmas Star tonight .There’s a little fly or should that be bird in the ointment and does scupper three men’s plans . Their father Magnus Hawthorne on his deathbed laid down demands . They all share the inheritance equal share or the first brother out of Logan , Soren or Greyson to marry gets the whole kit and caboodle to parry. Well easy right ,they just find their fair maiden fair who’s willing to go there, be none too bright at what she’s letting herself in for and all. The trouble with that plan so droll is plain to see,when they all go after Wren,you see ( get it wren is a bird? Oh do catch up will ya) …Anyway ,where was I ? Oh yes , Wren looks like butter wouldn’t melt but she’s svelte and cunning and no matter that all three are gunning to claim her ,they’ll have a rude awakening.Cos this gal ain’t forsaking,na ha! Although she’s secretly drooled over one of them since forever . She’d best box clever …Wren Wilde has no idea why the billionaire brothers are suddenly all over her like a rash but she must choose one but not be rash…She’s far from abashed , and shy she’s not ,not one jot ….Hot as sin and welcoming this storyline is . It’s divine , it’s bliss with a triple X .Love triangle wrangle but who’s going to be the winner? Will she be the cat lady who got the cream? You betcha she will dine supreme …Lydia Michael’s I love this storytelling of yours ,it’s amazingly compelling and lots of fun and the romance angst with a wonky dance and her making a great show of choosing a beau and an heir with flair who definitely goes there. Holiday treasure ,it’s a pearler, a toe curled ,I read with greed and such a pleasure devouring and this empowering character Wren and her choice of men ?Amen!

[Robin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Holiday Clause is part of the Christmas at Hideaway Harbor series. Each book is a standalone, but interconnected with the other books as well.

This book was a great read from beginning to end. Billionaire brothers are pushed to marry before their father dies, or face losing the family business. Two of the brothers can only imagine one girl as their wife and the third has spent years trying to avoid that same girl. That last brother, has no interest in forcing a marriage to get the business anyway. He considers himself out of the race.

The story spans a brief time from around Thanksgiving to Christmas. Can any of the brothers convince our FMC, Wren, to marry them in that time? Will she willingly marry any of them knowing why they are asking? Is she even interested in a relationship with them?

Spend some time getting to know these residents and more from Hideaway Harbor. The best friend, Jocelyn, is a hoot! Wren’s father who was devastated when her mother, his wife, passed away, but now helps her with her spa/hotel business. Wren’s “boys,” Greyson, Soren and Logan are all sweet and caring, yet each have very different personalities. And then there is Magnus, the boys’ father who is on his sickbed and being the cold, unfeeling grinch he has always been.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story as it was well written and just sucked you in. I love romance, humor and some spicy scenes to keep things interesting!! My favorite part of the book was Wren trying to give her boys a special Christmas to replace the memories of Christmas without their mom. Lydia Michaels does a wonderful job bringing her characters to life for you to enjoy as part of this series!

I was provided an ARC by the author and voluntarily provide my review.

[Tammy Moldovan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Finally embracing your North Star

Wren and Greyson’s friends to lovers slow burn romance with a side of healing will give you all the swoony swoons while also pulling at your heart strings with all the emotions. The two MCs are portrayed as real relatable people with scars and flaws who are really just trying to do their best as messy humans. Wren is a nature loving, vegetarian virgin who runs The Haven, a wellness and yoga retreat in Hideaway Harbor. Greyson is a reclusive millionaire who crafts furniture. Wren and Greyson (and his two brothers) grew up together and are all good friends whose friendship solidified after the deaths of their mothers. When Greyson’s wealthy father learns he is dying, he changes his will to include a marriage clause in order to inherit the company. Of course, two of the three Hawthorne brothers immediately think of Wren as a potential wife while the third has been chasing all men away the majority of her life. Now Wren has to decide between golden retriever Logan, alpha Soren or reclusive woodsman Greyson. Despite all the men wanting her, this is not a reverse harem story and there was never a question who owned Wren’s heart or whose heart she owned. It is quite a journey to get to their HEA though and included truth telling and some serious baggage unpacking while in the middle of dealing with Greyson’s manipulative father dying and the holiday shenanigans of Hideaway Harbor. This heartwarming, spicy and well written story felt emotionally grittier than the others in this series and there was less interaction with the Town’s holiday events but I loved it anyway. I am loving all the stories in this series and the quirky town it is set in.

[JLBBM · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Holiday Clause by Lydia Michaels is the fifth book in the Hideaway Harbor series. The series is six books written by six different authors and each can be read as a standalone. Although this book is set in Hideaway Harbor, Maine and some of the holiday festivities, places and people from the other books are mentioned, to me it had a totally different vibe. Where the other books were fun, sweet but spicy holiday stories, this one had an interesting storyline but with more angst, a lot more spice and the holiday just happened to be the time of year and not really a major part of the story.
Wren, who owns The Haven, the local spa, has been friends with the Hawthorne brothers, Greyson, Soren and Logan, her whole life. Their mothers were best friends who died in an automobile accident together when they were teens. This drew the four even closer and when Mr. Hawthorne, almost on his deathbed, decides his sons need to settle down if they want to inherit his billion dollar business, lets them know he’s added a new clause to his will. The first and only person they each think of to quickly fulfill the clause is Wren - no this is not a reverse harem trope, it’s a friends to lover, but which brother will win her heart? The only spoiler I will tell you is, the kitten will steal yours.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was a bit of a slow starter for me. The three Hawthorne brothers find themselves bound by their father's will, which states that the family business will be inherited by whoever marries first. They have all grown up around Wren, who might just be the perfect person for one of them to marry, since they have all been protecting her for years since her mother died. Wren has a different idea about how she wants things to work out. It was great to see her take the reins of her life and pursue the brother of her choice. The early part of the book, with all three brothers in the mix, felt more like a family saga than a holiday romance - well written, just not what I expected. Once there was a single romance at the center of things the positive holiday vibes became more noticeable, and Wren's love life takes center stage in a very convincing (and spicy!) way. I enjoyed the holiday song chapter titles, which give tiny hints about the chapter's events. Wren's best friend Jocelyn brings some wild humor, and there are some unexpected plot twists in the end. To sum up, I'd call this a solid holiday family saga well blended with romance. 
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.

[Julrenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wren Wilde is a thirty-year-old virgin. Why? She can blame the Hawthorne brothers for that, but one brother in particular, Greyson Harthorne, the oldest of the brothers, Soren and Logan. For the past fifteen years, any boy who is in Wren’s orbit receives a stare down from Greyson, intimidating them. The boys become her unofficial protectors after the deaths of their mothers.

Now that the brother’s father, Magnus, has little time to live, he tells them there is a clause in his will that the brother who marries first will inherit his billion-dollar business. Now Logan and Soren vie to win Wren, thinking she is the obvious choice in helping them get the inheritance.

Greyson is not interested in marrying anyone, or is he, as he and Wren share a close friendship that could lead to more.

It was fun to read about Wren going on her dates with Logan and Soren. The date with Logan had a more friend-like vibe with no spark. Soren, the Alpha, on the other hand, had a romantic connection with Wren, and his kiss left her wanting more.

I was captivated by the whimsical nature of this book. Christmas played a magical role in this tale, allowing the ambience of Hideaway Harbor to conjure the love between Wren and an eligible bachelor. Could it be one of the brothers or someone else?

Find out the answer by reading Lydia Michaels ‘The Holiday Clause’.

[Mandy Prather · Rating 5 out of 5]

I Received an ARC for those whole series of Hideaway Harbor so here goes...
Holy crap this was a great book. It was funny and everything you want in a holiday Romance. I usually don't like love triangles but you knew who she will end up with the whole time.

This one was Wren's story...
This one was alittle of a  love triangle only two didn't really stand a chance.
When the Hawthorne Brothers father tell them only one of his kids will inherit the company but only if they get married before Christmas they all go after Wren their childhood best friend.
Logan is the youngest he is like a Brother to her, Soren is the middle he was supposed to inherit the company, and then there is Grayson he is the oldest; he is a grumpy recluse he is a carpenter and they only one who doesn't want the company but he wants Wren's when his brother make a play at her he needs to make a decision before he loses her.
God I love them together. Once he was in he didn't back down just took him time to get there but these two have been in love with each other their whole lives.
I hope you get the other two brothers books.

[Lynda Malone · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Holiday Clause

Book 5 in the 'Christmas at Hideaway Harbor' series and another great Christmas read.

Lydia Michaels introdces us to two amazing main characters, Wren and Greyson, these two will have you cheering loudly. But she also graces us with Grey's brothers, Soren and Logan. The rivalry between the brothers brings so much humour and laugh out loud moments that just keep you thoroughly entertained from beginning to end. But you also get some very touching moments, not only between the boys but also with Wren, who grew up with them and went through a devastating loss with them. Throw in Wren's best friend, romance writer Jocelyn and things go a little crazy. Wren's dad also shows us how different family relationships can be.

You also get the quirky town of Hideaway as well as some of it unique residents and the beauty is you get to actually see scenes that have been mentioned in previous books.
The chemistry between Grey and Wren is phenominal but her interactions with the other brothers does give you pause as to who she belongs with.

Dealing with loss of a loved one during the festive season is told here with honesty, fragility and yes, with humour as it shows us that not every loss is felt or handled the same way. Another 5 star read and I hope we get Soren & Logans' stories in the near future.