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The Peppermint Playbook #6
Deck The Hills
A grumpy pro snowboarder. A sunshiny mountain man. One peppermint-fueled charity event that delivers more than either bargained for…
Pro snowboarder Aspen Sterling doesn’t do jingle bells, gingerbread, or glittery holiday galas—but she needs to keep her sponsorship. Fresh off a brutal ACL injury, she heads to Mynt’s holiday resort determined to prove she’s back and at her best. What she didn’t expect was her neighbor Cole Rivers—a flannel-wearing, cocoa-making, holiday-obsessed mountain guide who makes joy look effortless. He’s exactly the kind of distraction that she can’t afford—yet can’t seem to avoid.
Cole loves his town, his job, and everything about the Christmas season. Which is why he’s determined to remind a certain snowboarder that this time of year still means something. Surrounded by twinkling lights and peppermint-scented chaos, Cole helps Aspen rediscover what joy really feels like—and perhaps what it means to fall for someone who sees through the tough-girl armor she’s worn for far too long.
Just as Aspen’s Christmas spirit begins to rekindle, a ghost from her past threatens to unravel it all. Now she must decide whether to keep her heart guarded or take a leap of faith with the one person who's slowly reminding her what Christmas magic truly feels like.
Because sometimes the bravest thing you can do is fall… right into love.
This is a multi-author series about six athletes who find love the week before Christmas. If you enjoy closed-door, small-town holiday rom-coms, this series is for you. Make sure to read them all!
Jingle Blades by Tomi Tabb
Serving Scrooge by Katie Nelson
Checking You Twice by Larissa Hommes
Fumble All the Way by Deb Goodman
The Holiday Assist by Taylor Epperson
Deck the Hills by Michelle Angus
Pro snowboarder Aspen Sterling doesn’t do jingle bells, gingerbread, or glittery holiday galas—but she needs to keep her sponsorship. Fresh off a brutal ACL injury, she heads to Mynt’s holiday resort determined to prove she’s back and at her best. What she didn’t expect was her neighbor Cole Rivers—a flannel-wearing, cocoa-making, holiday-obsessed mountain guide who makes joy look effortless. He’s exactly the kind of distraction that she can’t afford—yet can’t seem to avoid.
Cole loves his town, his job, and everything about the Christmas season. Which is why he’s determined to remind a certain snowboarder that this time of year still means something. Surrounded by twinkling lights and peppermint-scented chaos, Cole helps Aspen rediscover what joy really feels like—and perhaps what it means to fall for someone who sees through the tough-girl armor she’s worn for far too long.
Just as Aspen’s Christmas spirit begins to rekindle, a ghost from her past threatens to unravel it all. Now she must decide whether to keep her heart guarded or take a leap of faith with the one person who's slowly reminding her what Christmas magic truly feels like.
Because sometimes the bravest thing you can do is fall… right into love.
This is a multi-author series about six athletes who find love the week before Christmas. If you enjoy closed-door, small-town holiday rom-coms, this series is for you. Make sure to read them all!
Jingle Blades by Tomi Tabb
Serving Scrooge by Katie Nelson
Checking You Twice by Larissa Hommes
Fumble All the Way by Deb Goodman
The Holiday Assist by Taylor Epperson
Deck the Hills by Michelle Angus
230 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 10, 2025
8 people are currently reading
86 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
December 6, 2025
The Right Kind of Love Brought them Happiness -
The first time Aspen and Cole met didn’t end well as she wasn’t really into Christmas and he had gone all out with his decorations, but by a twist of fate they found themselves in a situation the next day, that forced them into spending time together. Even though Aspen didn’t want to enjoy herself in Cole’s company, she felt an inexplicable connection with him, that made her let down the walls she had built around herself.
Cole’s life was all about his job and he had never gotten close to any of the visitors to the resort, but he felt a pull towards Aspen, that he just couldn’t fight. Unfortunately, Cole and Aspen’s time enjoying themselves was disrupted by the arrival of her narcissistic ex-boyfriend, who made it a point to cause trouble and nearly got her into trouble. However, Cole stepped in to help Aspen keep her ex-boyfriend at arms length, which mean5 them spending lots of time together, as their attraction for each other grew.
As the end of Aspen and Cole’s time together drew near, he mustered the confidence needed to confess his feelings, which led to her making a life changing decision that would give them a chance at having the future they both wanted. This was a very sweet, but touching lovely story, that had me so caught up in the story I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. If you are looking for a heartwarming story that will help you believe in the miracle of Christmas again, then look no further than this book.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
The first time Aspen and Cole met didn’t end well as she wasn’t really into Christmas and he had gone all out with his decorations, but by a twist of fate they found themselves in a situation the next day, that forced them into spending time together. Even though Aspen didn’t want to enjoy herself in Cole’s company, she felt an inexplicable connection with him, that made her let down the walls she had built around herself.
Cole’s life was all about his job and he had never gotten close to any of the visitors to the resort, but he felt a pull towards Aspen, that he just couldn’t fight. Unfortunately, Cole and Aspen’s time enjoying themselves was disrupted by the arrival of her narcissistic ex-boyfriend, who made it a point to cause trouble and nearly got her into trouble. However, Cole stepped in to help Aspen keep her ex-boyfriend at arms length, which mean5 them spending lots of time together, as their attraction for each other grew.
As the end of Aspen and Cole’s time together drew near, he mustered the confidence needed to confess his feelings, which led to her making a life changing decision that would give them a chance at having the future they both wanted. This was a very sweet, but touching lovely story, that had me so caught up in the story I couldn’t put it down once I started reading it. If you are looking for a heartwarming story that will help you believe in the miracle of Christmas again, then look no further than this book.
I received an advanced review copy of this book and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2025
The final book in The Peppermint Playbook series, Deck the Hills was great read. Aspen was a bit of a Scrooge about Christmas, but with the help of Cole, who I loved from the start, she slowly let herself love Christmas again. Aspen had to slowly heal from multiple heartaches and I loved watching how patient, kind, sweet and protective Cole was with her. I gave 4 stars instead of 5 because I don’t really care for stories written in 3rd person as I find it harder to connect with the characters.
December 10, 2025
DECK THE HILLS
(The Peppermint Playbook Series #6)
@authormichelleangus
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A grumpy pro snowboarder. A sunshiny mountain man. One peppermint-fueled charity event that delivers more than either bargained for...
“No matter how long it takes, I’ll be here.”
-DECK THE HILLS, is the delightful book #6 in, the lovely Peppermint PlayBook Novella Series! Watching dear characters be encircled by twinkling lights and peppermint-scented chaos, and sweetness amid hard was thoroughly enjoyable! I loved watching a dear character not only learn to love Christmas again, but to see her find herself and her worth! She didn’t have to change, make excuses, or be someone she wasn’t to be loved and cherished. Seeing her realize this and hold tight to such truths with the right person made all the difference! Add in one person, who is consistent and genuine in slowly reminding her what Christmas magic truly feels like, was simply the best! This is a short but delightful story weaved with humor, heart, depth, and even a “villain,” of sorts who gets put in his place! With the sprinkling of holiday vibes, swoony moments, growth and healing throughout as well, this cute short story is worth the dear read.❄️📚🩷
“Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is fall... right into love.”
•Content: death of loved ones (off page; in past but, mentioned on page, some loss/grief, knee acccident/recovery, a loved one’s knee surgery that resulted with complications effecting loved ones (in past; mentioned on page(, ex boyfriend-cocky, arrogant, disrespectful, nuisance/“villan,” someone gets punched-self defense,
a character with a genetic hair condition called, poliosis; mentioned kisses only! Clean-closed door!
“I just want to see you happy. That’s all I want.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“People can only realize their worth when there’s
someone there to show them, and that is what I plan to do. For the rest of the time you’re here, and after that, if you’ll let me.”
#deckthehillsbyauthormichelleangus
#book6inthepeppermintplaybookseries
#allaboutthebestreads
(The Peppermint Playbook Series #6)
@authormichelleangus
••I give 5 stars!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~A grumpy pro snowboarder. A sunshiny mountain man. One peppermint-fueled charity event that delivers more than either bargained for...
“No matter how long it takes, I’ll be here.”
-DECK THE HILLS, is the delightful book #6 in, the lovely Peppermint PlayBook Novella Series! Watching dear characters be encircled by twinkling lights and peppermint-scented chaos, and sweetness amid hard was thoroughly enjoyable! I loved watching a dear character not only learn to love Christmas again, but to see her find herself and her worth! She didn’t have to change, make excuses, or be someone she wasn’t to be loved and cherished. Seeing her realize this and hold tight to such truths with the right person made all the difference! Add in one person, who is consistent and genuine in slowly reminding her what Christmas magic truly feels like, was simply the best! This is a short but delightful story weaved with humor, heart, depth, and even a “villain,” of sorts who gets put in his place! With the sprinkling of holiday vibes, swoony moments, growth and healing throughout as well, this cute short story is worth the dear read.❄️📚🩷
“Sometimes, the bravest thing you can do is fall... right into love.”
•Content: death of loved ones (off page; in past but, mentioned on page, some loss/grief, knee acccident/recovery, a loved one’s knee surgery that resulted with complications effecting loved ones (in past; mentioned on page(, ex boyfriend-cocky, arrogant, disrespectful, nuisance/“villan,” someone gets punched-self defense,
a character with a genetic hair condition called, poliosis; mentioned kisses only! Clean-closed door!
“I just want to see you happy. That’s all I want.”
-I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
“People can only realize their worth when there’s
someone there to show them, and that is what I plan to do. For the rest of the time you’re here, and after that, if you’ll let me.”
#deckthehillsbyauthormichelleangus
#book6inthepeppermintplaybookseries
#allaboutthebestreads
December 5, 2025
We've come to the final book in the Peppermint Playbook series... and what a fun ending this one was! Right from their first meeting, I found myself enjoying the dynamic between Cole and Aspen. Aspen is a professional snowboarder who doesn't care for the holidays and Cole is a mountain guide who loves them. But as we learn more about her past, we get to understand the reasoning, which only makes Cole's helping her to embrace Christmas again all the sweeter. Beyond Christmas though, I also loved how he helped her to grow throughout the story in general as well. Their story was surprisingly tender but blended perfectly with the holiday cheers and laughs. And that epilogue!? Ooh, it was so good! Truly, a great ending to this fun series!
Deck the Hills is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Peppermint Playbook series, an interconnected multi-author series with each book being able to be enjoyed as standalones as well (though they're definitely more fun together).
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Deck the Hills is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Peppermint Playbook series, an interconnected multi-author series with each book being able to be enjoyed as standalones as well (though they're definitely more fun together).
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 5, 2025
A reverse grumpy sunshine where Aspen, the pro snowboarder, hates Christmas. Cole is a mountain guide at the resort and determined to show Aspen that the Christmas season is still something to enjoy. Aspen is working through some of her own personal challenges with an ACL injury and trying to prove she’s still at the peak of her career. Cole shows up for her. He’s patient and consistent in showing her what the Christmas season is all about while knocking down some of the walls she’s put up. I don’t read the reverse grumpy sunshine trope too often, but when I do I always enjoy it!
December 11, 2025
Deck the Hills is a sweet romance with a grumpy, pro snowboarder, Aspen, and a Christmas loving mountain guide, Cole. Cole has followed Aspen's career for ages and is determined to bring back her joie de vivre and get her to love Christmas. I loved reading all the things Cole did for Aspen. I also loved how Cole protected Aspen from hew swarmy ex! It was great to see Aspen's walls crumbling. I was rooting for this couple from the beginning of this well written book. After reading this series, I am ready to book my stay at the Mynt Resort!
December 8, 2025
The last installment of The Peppermint Playbook series was so enjoyable! We got to see little glimpses of the MCs from the other books, which was fun. I really liked the reverse grumpy/sunshine vibes between the main characters. Aspen has a chip on her shoulder on top of never truly healing from past hurts. Cole is such a lil softie— his actions always seemed to have Aspen’s best interest at heart. It did seem like his feelings for Aspen grew pretty quickly, whereas Aspen was kind of unaware of hers until she had already fallen. This is such a cute holiday story that I’d recommend to lovers of MMCs falling first and for healing arcs.
December 24, 2025
Favorite Quote:
“Why wouldn’t I want to live close to my person? You’re my person, Cole.”
“You’re my person too, Neve. I’m pretty sure I’m in love with you.” He knew she was asleep, but maybe—just maybe—she heard him in her dreams.”
This book was so sweet, and it might just be a favorite one of the series!
I love that Cole is a blubbering mess around Aspen!😂 He’s so cute 🥰
Chase can take a long walk off a short pier is all I’m saying 🤨
My time spent at Mynt Resort has been fun and I’ve loved all the couples we’ve met along the way! 🫠
Thank you to the author for the advance copy, all thoughts are my own.
“Why wouldn’t I want to live close to my person? You’re my person, Cole.”
“You’re my person too, Neve. I’m pretty sure I’m in love with you.” He knew she was asleep, but maybe—just maybe—she heard him in her dreams.”
This book was so sweet, and it might just be a favorite one of the series!
I love that Cole is a blubbering mess around Aspen!😂 He’s so cute 🥰
Chase can take a long walk off a short pier is all I’m saying 🤨
My time spent at Mynt Resort has been fun and I’ve loved all the couples we’ve met along the way! 🫠
Thank you to the author for the advance copy, all thoughts are my own.
December 17, 2025
Such a fun, sweet book about finding your Christmas spirit again or maybe being gifted it!!!
Loved this series!
Loved this couple!
Cole is the sweetest and if you love golden retriever, cinnamon roll sweethearts you’re going to fall in love with him just like Aspen did!
Great way to end this holiday series!
I hope they’re planning for another series next year either different couples or catching up with the same ones because this resort is just too magical not to revisit!
Loved this series!
Loved this couple!
Cole is the sweetest and if you love golden retriever, cinnamon roll sweethearts you’re going to fall in love with him just like Aspen did!
Great way to end this holiday series!
I hope they’re planning for another series next year either different couples or catching up with the same ones because this resort is just too magical not to revisit!
January 11, 2026
What a great book. I really enjoyed the writing and the characters of this book. The reverse grumpy sunshine was nicely done, esp with none of them being too extreme.
I also especially loved the end of the book, it was just too sweet.
I also especially loved the end of the book, it was just too sweet.
December 7, 2025
The finale of the Peppermint Playbook Series was the perfect ending with a reverse grumpy-sunshine couple. Aspen & Cole make the cutest couple and the mentions of characters from the rest of the series was a nice touch.
Thank you to the author for the ARC I received.
Thank you to the author for the ARC I received.
December 30, 2025
It was cute…the writing no was a little odd and immature at times tho
December 10, 2025
Loved this conclusion to the Peppermint Playbook! Cole was the absolute sweetest and adorably awkward & funny! I loved him so much for Aspen. They were so cute together.
December 5, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
Aspen is still dealing with the effects of the abuse her ex inflicted and occasionally doubts that Cole is as sweet as he seems to be. But his actions speak louder than her doubts. Once she realizes he's not a creep, their friendship forms quickly and holds fast.
They were cute together and everyone seemed to know they belonged together.
Aspen is still dealing with the effects of the abuse her ex inflicted and occasionally doubts that Cole is as sweet as he seems to be. But his actions speak louder than her doubts. Once she realizes he's not a creep, their friendship forms quickly and holds fast.
They were cute together and everyone seemed to know they belonged together.
December 5, 2025
A fun grumpy/sunshine holiday romance! I love how protective Cole is!
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
I received an ARC from the author and all opinions are my own.
December 19, 2025
If you like sweet Hallmarkesque holiday love stories then you should check out this story!
We get to follow pro-snowboarder Aspen through her holiday at the Mynt to Make a Difference charity event. After a horrible injury, the loss of her mother when she was young, and her toxic boyfriend leaving her in the hospital, Aspen is jaded to others. When she meets Cole, a snowboarding instructor at the resort where the charity event is taking place, he decides that it is his mission to help her heal from her past and love the holidays again.
Cole is so sweet and cheesy, these two make a sweet couple.
Content:
Toxic ex (he’s so disgustingly awful)
We get to follow pro-snowboarder Aspen through her holiday at the Mynt to Make a Difference charity event. After a horrible injury, the loss of her mother when she was young, and her toxic boyfriend leaving her in the hospital, Aspen is jaded to others. When she meets Cole, a snowboarding instructor at the resort where the charity event is taking place, he decides that it is his mission to help her heal from her past and love the holidays again.
Cole is so sweet and cheesy, these two make a sweet couple.
Content:
Toxic ex (he’s so disgustingly awful)
December 8, 2025
This is another book in The Peppermint Playbook Series (all the books are stand alone, you don’t need to read the entire series, but you might want to). Our story is set at Mynt Peak Resort located in Colorado and Mr. Mynt doesn’t spare any expenses when it comes to his resort. It’s like a Christmas explosion of decorations. The MPR hosts many events that bring athletes from different sports to interact with children. It could be for children who have a disease, low-income families, etc. Mr. Mynt hosts The Mynt to Make a Difference charity event yearly. The athletes that attend can all play the same sport or different sports. The event gives the children a chance to be with their family and to interact with the athletes. The families stay for free. Mr. Mynt’s team is very efficient, and the activities are varied so that there is something for everyone to enjoy. The athletes have plenty of down time to enjoy some rest and relaxation as well. MPR offers sleigh rides, arts & crafts, and much more for everyone.
Aspen is a snowboarder, loves what she does, and has a great deal of fans that follow her. Aspen is headed for The Mynt Peak Resort for one of the gatherings. Her mom passed away, but her dad loves her very much and is always reminding her to be safe. Her dad reminds her not to fall for any of the guys there and to protect her heart. “Her ex wasn’t just a jerk-he was a total toolbox.” Her dad threatens to come with her, because she’s still recovering from an ACL tear. Aspen is not particularly good at being patient and tends to push herself farther than she should.
After the long flight, her knee is stiff due to the inactivity and sitting in the same position. She has requested to stay in one of the cabins to be away from all the people that would be at the main lodge. Her driver stops for her to get her key for the cabin and takes her and her bags there. “Waving off the driver as she slid the key into the lock and turned it, only for nothing to happen. She tried again, jiggling it, flipping it, attempting every angle she could think of with no luck.” With no signal on her phone, she heads to the next cabin hoping they could get some help. Talk about Christmas overload, lights, red ribbon, a large wreath on the door, a decorated tree in the window, and Christmas music playing. Aspen didn’t really hate Christmas; she just hated what she no longer had. Her mom had loved Christmas and went all out every year. Matching sweaters, caroling around their neighborhood, decorating their tree, building gingerbread houses. Aspen just couldn’t do any of those things after her mother passed away. It was just too painful and reminded her of what she no longer had.
Cole sees a pink-haired snow covered lady on his porch and wonders why she’s there. She tells him about having difficulty with the lock and not being able to get it open. He shows her the trick of getting it open and promises to turn in a work order to get it fixed.
The two of them hit it off from the very beginning. What does this mean? Will they become friends, more than friends, or something else? Where does the former boyfriend fit in? He will be at this event as well and Aspen is not looking forward to seeing him. This book is filled with drama, secrets, the unknown, feelings, and more. Do not miss this book! You may be like me and lose sleep from “reading just one more chapter.” (We know how that always turns out!) Get your copy of Deck the Halls by Michelle Angus today and get lost in this wonderful story.
Aspen is a snowboarder, loves what she does, and has a great deal of fans that follow her. Aspen is headed for The Mynt Peak Resort for one of the gatherings. Her mom passed away, but her dad loves her very much and is always reminding her to be safe. Her dad reminds her not to fall for any of the guys there and to protect her heart. “Her ex wasn’t just a jerk-he was a total toolbox.” Her dad threatens to come with her, because she’s still recovering from an ACL tear. Aspen is not particularly good at being patient and tends to push herself farther than she should.
After the long flight, her knee is stiff due to the inactivity and sitting in the same position. She has requested to stay in one of the cabins to be away from all the people that would be at the main lodge. Her driver stops for her to get her key for the cabin and takes her and her bags there. “Waving off the driver as she slid the key into the lock and turned it, only for nothing to happen. She tried again, jiggling it, flipping it, attempting every angle she could think of with no luck.” With no signal on her phone, she heads to the next cabin hoping they could get some help. Talk about Christmas overload, lights, red ribbon, a large wreath on the door, a decorated tree in the window, and Christmas music playing. Aspen didn’t really hate Christmas; she just hated what she no longer had. Her mom had loved Christmas and went all out every year. Matching sweaters, caroling around their neighborhood, decorating their tree, building gingerbread houses. Aspen just couldn’t do any of those things after her mother passed away. It was just too painful and reminded her of what she no longer had.
Cole sees a pink-haired snow covered lady on his porch and wonders why she’s there. She tells him about having difficulty with the lock and not being able to get it open. He shows her the trick of getting it open and promises to turn in a work order to get it fixed.
The two of them hit it off from the very beginning. What does this mean? Will they become friends, more than friends, or something else? Where does the former boyfriend fit in? He will be at this event as well and Aspen is not looking forward to seeing him. This book is filled with drama, secrets, the unknown, feelings, and more. Do not miss this book! You may be like me and lose sleep from “reading just one more chapter.” (We know how that always turns out!) Get your copy of Deck the Halls by Michelle Angus today and get lost in this wonderful story.
December 12, 2025
I like the main characters, and the acts of service and healing that both our leads take part in. Cole is an absolute sweetheart and (other than the epilogue that didn't speak to me personally) their relationship was super sweet and Christmasy.
However, I feel the manuscript could have been edited better, I stumbled upon a few mistakes that required closer attention.
More importantly there are some rather serious plot points that I felt weren't handled with the sensitivity they should have. I'll go into explanation in the spoiler section below.
Spoiler/TW:
It was just disappointing, since I did love the main characters and the healing from grief narrative, but when you counter it with the other points, it detracts from the story in my opinion.
However, I feel the manuscript could have been edited better, I stumbled upon a few mistakes that required closer attention.
More importantly there are some rather serious plot points that I felt weren't handled with the sensitivity they should have. I'll go into explanation in the spoiler section below.
Spoiler/TW:
It was just disappointing, since I did love the main characters and the healing from grief narrative, but when you counter it with the other points, it detracts from the story in my opinion.
December 10, 2025
This is the final book in The Peppermint Playbook multi-author series, and I am going to be sad to see it go. This was a perfect book for the series to end on.
Aspen Sterling is a professional snowboarder. She is grumpy, cares nothing about being social and despises Christmas. However, after you learn her reason for hating Christmas, it will make you more than a little sad.
Cole Rivers is a mountain guide who works for the resort, and is Aspen's next door neighbor. Cole is the polar opposite of Aspen. He is the sunshine to her gloom, and he loves Christmas and everything that goes with it.
After meeting Aspen, he is determined to bring her joy back and increase her holiday spirit which is when he decides to begin Operation Make Aspen Love Christmas Again.
This romance was made even sweeter because of Cole's behavior toward Aspen. He truly wanted to restore her love of Christmas. He was also funny as he often tripped over his own tongue while talking with Aspen. Aspen has some pretty large walls around her heart and her whole being, so he has his work cut out for him.
I, once again, enjoyed the descriptions of the Christmas decorations at the Mynt Resort. It sounded like a winter wonderland. This book and this entire series were quick, easy and sweet reads. You do not have to read each one, but I would highly recommend this book and the entire series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Aspen Sterling is a professional snowboarder. She is grumpy, cares nothing about being social and despises Christmas. However, after you learn her reason for hating Christmas, it will make you more than a little sad.
Cole Rivers is a mountain guide who works for the resort, and is Aspen's next door neighbor. Cole is the polar opposite of Aspen. He is the sunshine to her gloom, and he loves Christmas and everything that goes with it.
After meeting Aspen, he is determined to bring her joy back and increase her holiday spirit which is when he decides to begin Operation Make Aspen Love Christmas Again.
This romance was made even sweeter because of Cole's behavior toward Aspen. He truly wanted to restore her love of Christmas. He was also funny as he often tripped over his own tongue while talking with Aspen. Aspen has some pretty large walls around her heart and her whole being, so he has his work cut out for him.
I, once again, enjoyed the descriptions of the Christmas decorations at the Mynt Resort. It sounded like a winter wonderland. This book and this entire series were quick, easy and sweet reads. You do not have to read each one, but I would highly recommend this book and the entire series.
Thank you to the author for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 18, 2025
What a fun story! I loved the sweet romance and holiday setting. This series has been a lot of fun and I loved seeing the cameos of other characters throughout the series.
Poor Aspen! She had a rough go with her physical injuries and her struggles during the holiday season. She was trying to enjoy her time at the resort and found a surprising connection in Cole. Cole was a sweetheart! I love his genuine kindness and thoughtfulness. He admired Aspen and offered her support when she needed it. Cole brought fun and lightness to her life, while Aspen saw his strengths valued him.
I loved the Christmas setting and the way the resort brought so much magic to Cole and Aspen’s story.. It brought so many fun scenes. I loved the forced proximity it brought and how Aspen and Cole were able to share their past. They had such a sweet connection and it felt very genuine..
This is a sweet holiday sports romance novella. It is a standalone in a series. There is only kissing, but also deals with the loss of a loved one.
I received an ARC
Poor Aspen! She had a rough go with her physical injuries and her struggles during the holiday season. She was trying to enjoy her time at the resort and found a surprising connection in Cole. Cole was a sweetheart! I love his genuine kindness and thoughtfulness. He admired Aspen and offered her support when she needed it. Cole brought fun and lightness to her life, while Aspen saw his strengths valued him.
I loved the Christmas setting and the way the resort brought so much magic to Cole and Aspen’s story.. It brought so many fun scenes. I loved the forced proximity it brought and how Aspen and Cole were able to share their past. They had such a sweet connection and it felt very genuine..
This is a sweet holiday sports romance novella. It is a standalone in a series. There is only kissing, but also deals with the loss of a loved one.
I received an ARC
January 13, 2026
Deck the Hills
I am so sad that my holiday visits to the Mynt Peak resort for the 'Mynt to Make a Difference' charity event is over. Like the others, this book about two snowboarders is a sweet sport romance with all the feels any reader could want. Cole is very protective of Aspen in all the ways she needs, but I really like that he can be that without trying to take over her life.
It was fun to see Aspen immerse herself, bit by bit, in all the fun and festivities of the Christmas season. I loved to see how she fought her way past the insidious undermining of her resolve by her ex and the well-intentioned control of her father to make decisions about her own future as an athlete and an adult. It was amusing to watch Cole slip over the cliff from 'like' into 'love'.
I received a free advance copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel and voluntarily chose to share my review.
I am so sad that my holiday visits to the Mynt Peak resort for the 'Mynt to Make a Difference' charity event is over. Like the others, this book about two snowboarders is a sweet sport romance with all the feels any reader could want. Cole is very protective of Aspen in all the ways she needs, but I really like that he can be that without trying to take over her life.
It was fun to see Aspen immerse herself, bit by bit, in all the fun and festivities of the Christmas season. I loved to see how she fought her way past the insidious undermining of her resolve by her ex and the well-intentioned control of her father to make decisions about her own future as an athlete and an adult. It was amusing to watch Cole slip over the cliff from 'like' into 'love'.
I received a free advance copy of this story from the author via BookFunnel and voluntarily chose to share my review.
December 3, 2025
I enjoyed this one! Aspen is definitely a bit of a scrooge, and after the struggles she's faced, no one can blame her. Michelle gave her a really strong arc and character growth, which is something I wholly appreciate in books. It's was beautiful watching Aspen not only learn to love Christmas again, but to see her find herself. There's nothing better than watching a character you've been rooting for overcome their challenges, and in this instance, stand up to those who were dragging them down into a pit of negativity. Cole is an absolute gentleman. He's kind and patient. I loved him from page one. Aspen could not have ended up with a more perfect man. While their relationship leans into insta-love, I found the romance believable and so sweet. Definitely a cozy Christmas read I would recommend.
December 28, 2025
Let me preface by saying this is part of a series and I didn’t read the others before this one. I received an ARC of this book and it was so cute! I wasn’t confused about what was going on or if there are connections to the other books (I’m sure there is). Cole is such a golden retriever and just wants to take care of Aspen and he breaks through that hard shell she has around herself. I love how unselfaware Aspen is at the beginning of the book and the change we see with that over the course of the story. He shows her it’s ok to trust, let go, and that you deserve to have someone in your corner. Only the best people deserve you. The character and story arcs move along at a steady pace that make you savor and enjoy the love developing between Aspen and Cole. This is the perfect closed door romance to read in winter next to a warm fire to give you all the feels.
December 9, 2025
I loved this sweet romance of Cole helping Aspen to find herself and her worth once again. Cole was the best kind of man to find ways for Aspen to experience the joy that had eluded her. I especially loved the ending; it was perfect!
Things to love:
dual POV
nicknames
snowy evenings
hot cocoa
This is a part of the Peppermint Playbook series that is about professional sports players from a variety of different athletic pursuits. This is a standalone book and one you can curl up with and enjoy the cozy read.
I received a copy of the book but was not obligated to write a positive review.
Things to love:
dual POV
nicknames
snowy evenings
hot cocoa
This is a part of the Peppermint Playbook series that is about professional sports players from a variety of different athletic pursuits. This is a standalone book and one you can curl up with and enjoy the cozy read.
I received a copy of the book but was not obligated to write a positive review.
December 11, 2025
I loved Aspen's character in this book. She's a snowboarder at the Mynt to Make a Difference charity event. But she just wants to do her own thing. And she wants to avoid Christmas. Aspen is grumpy, for a few reasons. One being that she had just had her ACL fixed and certain things cause her knee to ache.
I loved the way Cole isn't going to let her avoid all the Christmas activities. He really goes out of his way to make things better for Aspen, even if she doesn't always think so. I loved the way he goes out of his way to bring light, and Christmas back in to Aspen's life.
I'm sad to see The Peppermint Playbook series end. But...I can always read it again next year!
I loved the way Cole isn't going to let her avoid all the Christmas activities. He really goes out of his way to make things better for Aspen, even if she doesn't always think so. I loved the way he goes out of his way to bring light, and Christmas back in to Aspen's life.
I'm sad to see The Peppermint Playbook series end. But...I can always read it again next year!
December 11, 2025
A cute wrap on a fun holiday series!
Aspen and Cole’s story is so cute. I loved seeing how Cole handled Aspen’s celebrity status, even though he’d been idolizing her since he was a teen.
Aspen is so amazing and it was hard to see that she had people in her past who made her forget that. I enjoyed seeing her find her voice and learn how to claim what she wanted.
This strangers to more, insta-love, holiday sports romance is a great ending to the Peppermint Playbook Series. It had so many funny and tender moments throughout their time at the Mint to Make a Difference charity event activities.
Aspen and Cole’s story is so cute. I loved seeing how Cole handled Aspen’s celebrity status, even though he’d been idolizing her since he was a teen.
Aspen is so amazing and it was hard to see that she had people in her past who made her forget that. I enjoyed seeing her find her voice and learn how to claim what she wanted.
This strangers to more, insta-love, holiday sports romance is a great ending to the Peppermint Playbook Series. It had so many funny and tender moments throughout their time at the Mint to Make a Difference charity event activities.
December 11, 2025
This is the last of the Peppermint Book novella series and it ended with a great one. I really enjoyed reading this snowboarder sports romance. You don't come across this genre too often and it was very fun and refreshing.
I loved the descriptions of the mountains, runs, and resort beauty. I loved seeing Cole be protective and caring. He is so darling and cute tripping over his words and throwing out the random "dad joke."
There are no swears or alcohol and level 1 kisses only. Dual POV.
I highly recommend reading this entre series for super quick, fun, and good Christmas romances.
I loved the descriptions of the mountains, runs, and resort beauty. I loved seeing Cole be protective and caring. He is so darling and cute tripping over his words and throwing out the random "dad joke."
There are no swears or alcohol and level 1 kisses only. Dual POV.
I highly recommend reading this entre series for super quick, fun, and good Christmas romances.
December 27, 2025
I thought this was a cute sports romance. I liked how Cole helps Aspen to gain back the Christmas spirit and to help her mourn the loss of her mom. I also like how he is there for her and treats her as she should be treated. I liked how Aspen learned that there are good men in the world thanks to Cole. I also liked that they had similar interest and had a real connection.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
January 12, 2026
Aspen put up walls after a bad career damaging injury and her self centered cruel ex’s treatment. She doesn’t expect to fall for sweet funny gourmet cocoa and granola maker and snowboarding instructor and guide Cole. He made me laugh out loud with his puns, his excitement about helping Aspen love Christmas again, and all the hidden posters he had of her. Her ex Chase was so bad I’m surprised he has the fan base he does. I was rooting for Cole to win Aspen but they did have some things to consider like distance and careers in this kisses only romance.
January 18, 2026
Aspen is making a comeback on snowboarding after a knee injury. She’s a celebrity athlete at a snow resort. Cole works as an instructor at the same resort. They are both single, but not looking for a relationship. They meet when Aspen can’t get into her cabin. Cole lives next door. He helps her and then they keep running into each other. They develop a friendship and feelings pretty quickly. And then her ex bf shows up. He isn’t nice to her and Cole doesn’t like it. What’s going to happen to them when it’s time for Aspen to leave? You’ll have to read it to find out! I loved this book!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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