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Checking You Twice: A Sweet Christmas Romantic Comedy
What if your mistletoe kiss with a stranger came with a twist you never saw coming?
Holden Prescott has only ever needed hockey. Love has no place in his world, he’s been fine on his own for as long as he can remember. But when he catches a beautiful woman from falling and ends up sharing an impulsive kiss under the mistletoe, his carefully controlled life is shaken. Good thing he’ll never see her again…
Belle Whitmore lives for Christmas. To her, nothing is more romantic than spending the holidays with someone special. Too bad her workaholic boyfriend isn’t the person she wants to be with. She’s ready to break things off when he surprises her with a trip to a mountain resort getaway with his family. Instead of walking away, she finds herself on a plane to Colorado, hoping she hasn’t made a huge mistake.
Except waiting to greet her is none other than the mystery man from beneath the mistletoe—her boyfriend’s cousin.
Neither of them expected to cross paths again, but when Belle’s boyfriend disappears for work and asks Holden to keep her company, their connection becomes impossible to ignore. With each sleigh ride, decorated cookie, built snowman, and spin on the ice, Holden’s frozen heart begins to thaw, and Belle starts to see what she’s been missing all along.
Was their mistletoe kiss holiday serendipity…or a Christmas disaster waiting to happen?
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
Holden Prescott has only ever needed hockey. Love has no place in his world, he’s been fine on his own for as long as he can remember. But when he catches a beautiful woman from falling and ends up sharing an impulsive kiss under the mistletoe, his carefully controlled life is shaken. Good thing he’ll never see her again…
Belle Whitmore lives for Christmas. To her, nothing is more romantic than spending the holidays with someone special. Too bad her workaholic boyfriend isn’t the person she wants to be with. She’s ready to break things off when he surprises her with a trip to a mountain resort getaway with his family. Instead of walking away, she finds herself on a plane to Colorado, hoping she hasn’t made a huge mistake.
Except waiting to greet her is none other than the mystery man from beneath the mistletoe—her boyfriend’s cousin.
Neither of them expected to cross paths again, but when Belle’s boyfriend disappears for work and asks Holden to keep her company, their connection becomes impossible to ignore. With each sleigh ride, decorated cookie, built snowman, and spin on the ice, Holden’s frozen heart begins to thaw, and Belle starts to see what she’s been missing all along.
Was their mistletoe kiss holiday serendipity…or a Christmas disaster waiting to happen?
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
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 19, 2025
5147 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 20, 2025
A Connection Worth Exploring -
Belle and Holden met when he prevented her from getting into an accident and they went their separate ways after a thank you meal and a stolen kiss. However, fate had other plans for Belle and Holden, as they met again in a location where neither one of them wanted to be at. Belle and Holden found themselves spending lots of time together, which allowed them to get to know each other and led to a few tensi9n-filled moments.
Even though Belle and Holden tried to keep their attraction for each other from growing due to their circumstances, their willpower didn’t hold up. Nevertheless, the time Belle spent with Holden made her realise she needed to make a change in her life to get the happiness she deserved. Luckily, Belle and Holden got a chance to have the life changing relationship they both deserved and the hope of a future together.
This was an amazingly sweet holiday romance story, that had me hooked from the first page and was a lot of fun to read. This entertaining story was flirty, christmassy and obviously a definite must read. You will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
Belle and Holden met when he prevented her from getting into an accident and they went their separate ways after a thank you meal and a stolen kiss. However, fate had other plans for Belle and Holden, as they met again in a location where neither one of them wanted to be at. Belle and Holden found themselves spending lots of time together, which allowed them to get to know each other and led to a few tensi9n-filled moments.
Even though Belle and Holden tried to keep their attraction for each other from growing due to their circumstances, their willpower didn’t hold up. Nevertheless, the time Belle spent with Holden made her realise she needed to make a change in her life to get the happiness she deserved. Luckily, Belle and Holden got a chance to have the life changing relationship they both deserved and the hope of a future together.
This was an amazingly sweet holiday romance story, that had me hooked from the first page and was a lot of fun to read. This entertaining story was flirty, christmassy and obviously a definite must read. You will enjoy reading this book as much as I did.
I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 24, 2025
What happens when a mistletoe kiss with a total stranger becomes… a family complication?
I had so much fun with Belle and Holden’s story! Their meet-cute is straight out of a Christmas romcom—rescued from danger, a shared meal, and an unexpected mistletoe kiss. They both assume they’ll never see each other again… until Belle arrives at a mountain resort with her boyfriend and discovers that the mystery man from the airport is actually his cousin.
Awkward? Absolutely.
A love triangle? Not really—because it’s clear from the beginning exactly who Belle has real chemistry with.
Watching Belle and Holden reconnect through snowy adventures, cookie decorating, skating, and all the holiday vibes was just adorable. Their connection is sweet, gentle, and filled with that “I’m falling for you but shouldn’t be” tension that makes this kind of story so addictive. I also loved seeing how the multi-author series ties together—each book adding its own sparkle.
A perfect closed-door holiday romance with hockey, charm, and plenty of Christmas magic!
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
I had so much fun with Belle and Holden’s story! Their meet-cute is straight out of a Christmas romcom—rescued from danger, a shared meal, and an unexpected mistletoe kiss. They both assume they’ll never see each other again… until Belle arrives at a mountain resort with her boyfriend and discovers that the mystery man from the airport is actually his cousin.
Awkward? Absolutely.
A love triangle? Not really—because it’s clear from the beginning exactly who Belle has real chemistry with.
Watching Belle and Holden reconnect through snowy adventures, cookie decorating, skating, and all the holiday vibes was just adorable. Their connection is sweet, gentle, and filled with that “I’m falling for you but shouldn’t be” tension that makes this kind of story so addictive. I also loved seeing how the multi-author series ties together—each book adding its own sparkle.
A perfect closed-door holiday romance with hockey, charm, and plenty of Christmas magic!
ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
November 14, 2025
This was a super sweet Christmas novella. I loved the meet cute and wondered how they would get to Colorado, but didn’t expect what actually happened. This had all the traditional hallmark movie activities and did not disappoint. Holden and Belle were perfect for each other, truly seeing the other person and loving them for who they were.
November 19, 2025
This story drew me in from the beginning and kept me wanting to know what would happen next. Are you like me and believe in the magic of Christmas? I sure hope you do; I love everything about Christmas! The decorations, the carols, the plays and programs at Church, the shopping frenzy, decorating the tree, riding around looking at all the decorations, the food, the fellowship, and most importantly, Jesus’ birthday!
Belle loves photographing Christmas decorations and trying to find the perfect shot. The Plaza Hotel is adorned with lit wreaths and lights everywhere. Belle has been “an architectural photographer for almost a year.” She has been able to get some amazing shots. Before her boyfriend, Alex, helped her get her current job, she was taking whatever jobs that involved photography she could get. Belle is working on getting a fantastic shot inside The Plaza, but she is having some difficulty getting into just the right position to capture “the shot.” She has climbed up on the banister and needs to be just a little higher to get that shot. She captures the shot but loses her balance. She squealed as she realized she was going to land on the marble floor. She feels “something warm wrapped around” her waist that is pulling her back. When she can finally breathe a sigh of relief, she takes in the handsome guy who saved her. She wants to give him more than just a thanks and asks if he has time for linner. He’s caught off guard of what linner is…too late for lunch, too early for dinner.
Holden is the guy who saved her from broken bones and more. He just happens to be a hockey player, but she doesn’t recognize him. He liked that she was so nice and friendly without knowing he was a hockey star. They enjoy a nice linner getting to know each other and there seems to be some attraction between them.
Holden is in town to attend a charity event at The Mynt Peak Resort for Christmas. Mr. Mynt invited him and his family. Unfortunately, Holden has no real family to speak of since his father was a sperm donor who left his mom as soon as she told him she was pregnant.
Alex and Belle are also headed to the Mynt Peak Resort for Christmas gala. Mr. Mynt encourages and supports athletes in many ways. Belle is looking forward to the events and hopefully some quality time with Alex. She really doesn’t like how he talks about Holden (his cousin). In my opinion, Alex is a turd…yes, a big turd. He’s full of himself and never seems to be satisfied. I really don’t know what Belle sees in him.
Alex gets a call that could change his career and tells Belle he’s got to leave for a meeting. He asks Holden to keep Belle company while he’s gone. He reminds him how his family has helped him, so he needs to return the favor. See what I mean about him being a turd?!
Now, this story is filled with drama, a turd, (can you tell I really like calling Alex a turd?), unexpected feelings, wonderful events at the resort, and more. I want you to enjoy this story as much as I did and I don’t want to spoil it with too much information. Get your copy of Checking You Twice by Larissa Hommes today and get lost in a book you’ll find hard to put down.
Belle loves photographing Christmas decorations and trying to find the perfect shot. The Plaza Hotel is adorned with lit wreaths and lights everywhere. Belle has been “an architectural photographer for almost a year.” She has been able to get some amazing shots. Before her boyfriend, Alex, helped her get her current job, she was taking whatever jobs that involved photography she could get. Belle is working on getting a fantastic shot inside The Plaza, but she is having some difficulty getting into just the right position to capture “the shot.” She has climbed up on the banister and needs to be just a little higher to get that shot. She captures the shot but loses her balance. She squealed as she realized she was going to land on the marble floor. She feels “something warm wrapped around” her waist that is pulling her back. When she can finally breathe a sigh of relief, she takes in the handsome guy who saved her. She wants to give him more than just a thanks and asks if he has time for linner. He’s caught off guard of what linner is…too late for lunch, too early for dinner.
Holden is the guy who saved her from broken bones and more. He just happens to be a hockey player, but she doesn’t recognize him. He liked that she was so nice and friendly without knowing he was a hockey star. They enjoy a nice linner getting to know each other and there seems to be some attraction between them.
Holden is in town to attend a charity event at The Mynt Peak Resort for Christmas. Mr. Mynt invited him and his family. Unfortunately, Holden has no real family to speak of since his father was a sperm donor who left his mom as soon as she told him she was pregnant.
Alex and Belle are also headed to the Mynt Peak Resort for Christmas gala. Mr. Mynt encourages and supports athletes in many ways. Belle is looking forward to the events and hopefully some quality time with Alex. She really doesn’t like how he talks about Holden (his cousin). In my opinion, Alex is a turd…yes, a big turd. He’s full of himself and never seems to be satisfied. I really don’t know what Belle sees in him.
Alex gets a call that could change his career and tells Belle he’s got to leave for a meeting. He asks Holden to keep Belle company while he’s gone. He reminds him how his family has helped him, so he needs to return the favor. See what I mean about him being a turd?!
Now, this story is filled with drama, a turd, (can you tell I really like calling Alex a turd?), unexpected feelings, wonderful events at the resort, and more. I want you to enjoy this story as much as I did and I don’t want to spoil it with too much information. Get your copy of Checking You Twice by Larissa Hommes today and get lost in a book you’ll find hard to put down.
November 16, 2025
To say I was excited for this story is an understatement… Holden truly is amazing despite his gruff hockey exterior seen in the some of the other Minnesota Wolves books! While I’m proud to say I support the team, it’s this left winger who has officially stolen my heart away from his teammates!
When we encounter Holden for the first time in this story, he has just saved our FMC from falling inside the Plaza Hotel in New York City! Yeah, that Plaza! Right place, right time and to be rewarded for such dutiful acts of heroism, she insists on treating him to Linner (Lunch + Dinner) at Rolf’s! It would have been all too easy for him to walk away, but he doesn’t! Holden is drawn to this mysterious woman, but to keep his professional identity safe, he keeps things surface level and first names only! That and he might have stolen a mistletoe kiss after having one of the best Christmasy experiences ever!
Fast forward a few weeks, Holden still can’t get Belle out of his head but he’s off to do a weeklong charity event in Colorado for one of his brand sponsors. He is told he can invite family to join him, this is a source of awkwardness and contention – he ropes in his aunt, who extends the invitation to his uncle, cousin, and the cousin’s girlfriend! But imagine his surprise when he goes to meet girlfriend and she turns out to be his Linner companion. Over the course of the week, he is even saddled to being Belle’s companion when his cousin must return to the city for work! Meanwhile Belle has been wrestling with how to end with Alex for weeks yet feels maybe this Colorado vacation could restrengthen their relationship! Oh, the insanity that ensues between Holden’s charity commitments and being Belle’s righthand man!
This may be a fast holiday read, but boy are there some amazing nuggets of goodness packed inside! I love how optimistic and hopeful Belle is around the holiday season, it’s infectious! Holden is a truly a teddy bear, this beast of an athlete turns into complete mush around this woman and I’m here for it! This was a trip to Colorado, neither of them wanted but walked away from with so much more!
When we encounter Holden for the first time in this story, he has just saved our FMC from falling inside the Plaza Hotel in New York City! Yeah, that Plaza! Right place, right time and to be rewarded for such dutiful acts of heroism, she insists on treating him to Linner (Lunch + Dinner) at Rolf’s! It would have been all too easy for him to walk away, but he doesn’t! Holden is drawn to this mysterious woman, but to keep his professional identity safe, he keeps things surface level and first names only! That and he might have stolen a mistletoe kiss after having one of the best Christmasy experiences ever!
Fast forward a few weeks, Holden still can’t get Belle out of his head but he’s off to do a weeklong charity event in Colorado for one of his brand sponsors. He is told he can invite family to join him, this is a source of awkwardness and contention – he ropes in his aunt, who extends the invitation to his uncle, cousin, and the cousin’s girlfriend! But imagine his surprise when he goes to meet girlfriend and she turns out to be his Linner companion. Over the course of the week, he is even saddled to being Belle’s companion when his cousin must return to the city for work! Meanwhile Belle has been wrestling with how to end with Alex for weeks yet feels maybe this Colorado vacation could restrengthen their relationship! Oh, the insanity that ensues between Holden’s charity commitments and being Belle’s righthand man!
This may be a fast holiday read, but boy are there some amazing nuggets of goodness packed inside! I love how optimistic and hopeful Belle is around the holiday season, it’s infectious! Holden is a truly a teddy bear, this beast of an athlete turns into complete mush around this woman and I’m here for it! This was a trip to Colorado, neither of them wanted but walked away from with so much more!
November 19, 2025
Who knew that having linner (that's not a typo) with a complete stranger could be so life changing? That's what happens when Belle Whitmore is about to take a tumble before she is expertly rescued by a bearded giant. She wants to thank him for saving her from injury. So, she offers to take him to linner (that is too late for lunch, but too early for dinner).
The bearded giant is hockey star Holden Prescott. He realizes that Belle has no idea who he is, which is refreshing in and of itself. They decide to just trade first names with no other personal information.
Holden has never felt truly wanted. His own mother did not want him. It was only by the grace of an aunt who loved him and took care of him that he is where he is today. His gruffness and need for solitude has always served him well. But Belle has upset his apple cart with her vibrant personality. She radiates enthusiasm in everything she talks about. Their dinner was unforgettable, but they are sure they will never see each other again. Boy were they mistaken.
This is one of those times that I was glad I had not read the blurb so I could be shocked by how these two ended up meeting again.
There were so many memorable scenes from cookie decorating, downhill skiing and a Rudolph tie as Holden's heart slowly thawed with the sunshiny personality of Belle. I was cheering for Holden because no one deserved a happily ever after more than him. Belle was living a lie with Alex, and she deserved someone who would love her for who she was, not who he wanted her to be.
This was a pure chef's kiss of a charming romance that made my day.
Thank you to the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
The bearded giant is hockey star Holden Prescott. He realizes that Belle has no idea who he is, which is refreshing in and of itself. They decide to just trade first names with no other personal information.
Holden has never felt truly wanted. His own mother did not want him. It was only by the grace of an aunt who loved him and took care of him that he is where he is today. His gruffness and need for solitude has always served him well. But Belle has upset his apple cart with her vibrant personality. She radiates enthusiasm in everything she talks about. Their dinner was unforgettable, but they are sure they will never see each other again. Boy were they mistaken.
This is one of those times that I was glad I had not read the blurb so I could be shocked by how these two ended up meeting again.
There were so many memorable scenes from cookie decorating, downhill skiing and a Rudolph tie as Holden's heart slowly thawed with the sunshiny personality of Belle. I was cheering for Holden because no one deserved a happily ever after more than him. Belle was living a lie with Alex, and she deserved someone who would love her for who she was, not who he wanted her to be.
This was a pure chef's kiss of a charming romance that made my day.
Thank you to the author. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 27, 2025
🎄Clean Christmas RomCom
🎄Forced Proximity
🎄Found Family
🎄Hockey Player MMC
🎄Photographer FMC
🎄Opposites Attract
🎄184 page Novella
“Holden Prescott’s smolder should come with a warning.”
I loved everything about this Christmas novella from start to finish. There is even a little bit of the forbidden trope in this one that shocked me (it’s one of my favorite tropes). Belle is in NY and falls while trying to get the perfect picture and Holden Prescott is right there to catch her. They have a wonderful day together and go their separate ways. Belle has a boyfriend and is invited on his families trip. She gets there and gets introduced to her boyfriend’s cousin. Who is no other than the NY guy and he is also a hockey player 🥵 You get to see how her relationship with her boyfriend isn’t any good and how Holden is absolutely perfect for her. I ate this story up! Perfect read for the holidays season.
🎄 “Are you and the elf married?” Belle choked on a laugh from beside me. I blinked. “Uh…no. We’re not—” “But you like her,” the girl said knowingly. “You look at her like my dad looks at my mom.”🎄
🎄 “Life is messy. Love is even messier. But if you’re lucky enough to find someone who makes you feel seen, who makes you laugh, who makes your heart feel full—you don’t let go of that.”🎄
🎄 “So you saved her life and then stole her heart? Bold move, Prescott.”🎄
🎄Forced Proximity
🎄Found Family
🎄Hockey Player MMC
🎄Photographer FMC
🎄Opposites Attract
🎄184 page Novella
“Holden Prescott’s smolder should come with a warning.”
I loved everything about this Christmas novella from start to finish. There is even a little bit of the forbidden trope in this one that shocked me (it’s one of my favorite tropes). Belle is in NY and falls while trying to get the perfect picture and Holden Prescott is right there to catch her. They have a wonderful day together and go their separate ways. Belle has a boyfriend and is invited on his families trip. She gets there and gets introduced to her boyfriend’s cousin. Who is no other than the NY guy and he is also a hockey player 🥵 You get to see how her relationship with her boyfriend isn’t any good and how Holden is absolutely perfect for her. I ate this story up! Perfect read for the holidays season.
🎄 “Are you and the elf married?” Belle choked on a laugh from beside me. I blinked. “Uh…no. We’re not—” “But you like her,” the girl said knowingly. “You look at her like my dad looks at my mom.”🎄
🎄 “Life is messy. Love is even messier. But if you’re lucky enough to find someone who makes you feel seen, who makes you laugh, who makes your heart feel full—you don’t let go of that.”🎄
🎄 “So you saved her life and then stole her heart? Bold move, Prescott.”🎄
November 9, 2025
A surprisingly sweet holiday romance with a great meet-cute, a smidgen of secret identity, and a recognition that everyone deserves to be and can be loved.
Belle meets Holden after he prevents her from falling while trying to capture a photo. They spend the evening together with a kiss under the mistletoe. They never expect to meet again, but they do at the charity event that ties this series together. He is there because he is a hockey player; she is there as the girlfriend of his cousin. This could have been awkward. She was planning to breakup with him but was hoping the trip would show that he cared for her (he clearly doesn't put her first and is trying to change her vibrant personality). She ends up spending time with Holden, and they develop a friendship that becomes more. Holden starts to realize that he deserves love and can love someone back while Belle starts to realize it's better to be loved as she is rather having to change for love.
There are parts of this story that some could consider cheating, but it doesn't feel like it. It's a well written, engaging, emotional journey of two people finding their person.
Belle meets Holden after he prevents her from falling while trying to capture a photo. They spend the evening together with a kiss under the mistletoe. They never expect to meet again, but they do at the charity event that ties this series together. He is there because he is a hockey player; she is there as the girlfriend of his cousin. This could have been awkward. She was planning to breakup with him but was hoping the trip would show that he cared for her (he clearly doesn't put her first and is trying to change her vibrant personality). She ends up spending time with Holden, and they develop a friendship that becomes more. Holden starts to realize that he deserves love and can love someone back while Belle starts to realize it's better to be loved as she is rather having to change for love.
There are parts of this story that some could consider cheating, but it doesn't feel like it. It's a well written, engaging, emotional journey of two people finding their person.
November 20, 2025
Such a sweet forbidden romance sort of love triangle clean holiday love story!
After a meet-cute straight out of a rom-com, Holden and Belle go on a thank-you linner (lunch/dinner) not-date and end up sharing an unforgettable mistletoe kiss.
Flash forward a few days and Belle is ready to end things with her boyfriend, but decides to give it one final chance when he invites her to go with his family to a fancy holiday resort to spend time together. As soon as they arrive, she finds out that Holden is her hopefully-soon-to-be-ex-boyfriend’s professional hockey playing cousin who invited them on the trip.
When Alex (the bf) leaves for a business trip in the middle of their vacation (I know, don’t get me started, ugh), he asks Holden to keep her company.
As Holden and Belle spend time together their feelings grow and Belle starts to realize that there IS someone who will like her as she is and not try to change her into a “better” version of herself.
This relationship was so sweet, I absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Larissa for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
After a meet-cute straight out of a rom-com, Holden and Belle go on a thank-you linner (lunch/dinner) not-date and end up sharing an unforgettable mistletoe kiss.
Flash forward a few days and Belle is ready to end things with her boyfriend, but decides to give it one final chance when he invites her to go with his family to a fancy holiday resort to spend time together. As soon as they arrive, she finds out that Holden is her hopefully-soon-to-be-ex-boyfriend’s professional hockey playing cousin who invited them on the trip.
When Alex (the bf) leaves for a business trip in the middle of their vacation (I know, don’t get me started, ugh), he asks Holden to keep her company.
As Holden and Belle spend time together their feelings grow and Belle starts to realize that there IS someone who will like her as she is and not try to change her into a “better” version of herself.
This relationship was so sweet, I absolutely loved it!
Thank you to Larissa for including me on her ARC team! I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 19, 2025
Another sweet holiday romance in the Peppermint Playbook series! I have been really enjoying this series and this was actually my first from Ms. Hommes.
Belle was a lot of fun! I enjoyed her energy and enthusiasm! She adored the holidays and I am getting more excited for them through each of these books. Belle had to decide what she wanted with her life. Holden was so sweet with Belle. He was guarded and wary, but Belle offered him a different perspective. Holden starts to see the opportunities he has in life and what opening himself up looked like.
I thought they were so cute together! Belle and Holden had so much fun together and they could be themselves around each other. I loved seeing them do Christmas-y activities together and how it brought them the opportunity to get to know one another. I also loved Maggie, she was the sweetest. Belle’s siblings were also hilarious! I loved their group chat.
This holiday romance was a lot of fun and a great addition to the series. It has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
Belle was a lot of fun! I enjoyed her energy and enthusiasm! She adored the holidays and I am getting more excited for them through each of these books. Belle had to decide what she wanted with her life. Holden was so sweet with Belle. He was guarded and wary, but Belle offered him a different perspective. Holden starts to see the opportunities he has in life and what opening himself up looked like.
I thought they were so cute together! Belle and Holden had so much fun together and they could be themselves around each other. I loved seeing them do Christmas-y activities together and how it brought them the opportunity to get to know one another. I also loved Maggie, she was the sweetest. Belle’s siblings were also hilarious! I loved their group chat.
This holiday romance was a lot of fun and a great addition to the series. It has only kisses.
I received an ARC.
November 25, 2025
“You don’t have to know how to be someone’s person. You just have to let someone try to be yours.”
Oh, my goodness gracious, this book is an absolute delight! It’s a most adorable, quick holiday read that will effortlessly put a huge smile on your face and leave you feeling utterly, wonderfully happy. It’s pure festive cheer!
Belle never expected she’d see Holden again after his rescue and his mistletoe kiss. Romance was the last thing on Holden’s mind when he saved a girl from falling over a railing, and in an act to avoid being recognized in public, he pulls Belle under the mistletoe. So why can’t he stop thinking about this cheery, sweet, adorable woman??
The chaotic and charming way these two reconnect is an absolute riot, and I simply loved every minute of it! The scenes were so hilarious and heartwarming that I couldn't stop my happy giggles!
From the delightful "not-date-dates" to their friendly, spirited competition and the deeply comforting sense of found family—these elements are woven together perfectly, making this story a genuinely joyful reading experience!
If you are craving a fun, sweet, holiday romantic comedy this is the story you need!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
‘And oh, holy night, I had been right. Holden could definitely make a woman swoon with a wink.’
Oh, my goodness gracious, this book is an absolute delight! It’s a most adorable, quick holiday read that will effortlessly put a huge smile on your face and leave you feeling utterly, wonderfully happy. It’s pure festive cheer!
Belle never expected she’d see Holden again after his rescue and his mistletoe kiss. Romance was the last thing on Holden’s mind when he saved a girl from falling over a railing, and in an act to avoid being recognized in public, he pulls Belle under the mistletoe. So why can’t he stop thinking about this cheery, sweet, adorable woman??
The chaotic and charming way these two reconnect is an absolute riot, and I simply loved every minute of it! The scenes were so hilarious and heartwarming that I couldn't stop my happy giggles!
From the delightful "not-date-dates" to their friendly, spirited competition and the deeply comforting sense of found family—these elements are woven together perfectly, making this story a genuinely joyful reading experience!
If you are craving a fun, sweet, holiday romantic comedy this is the story you need!
Thank you to the author for my gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
‘And oh, holy night, I had been right. Holden could definitely make a woman swoon with a wink.’
November 21, 2025
This was a fun read! Belle, an architectural photographer, nearly takes a fatal fall while trying to get the perfect picture. Enter Holden, rescuer, grumpy with a big heart, and secret hockey player (she has no idea who he is!!) Taking him to dinner (combo of lunch and dinner), they get to know each other in a fun, unconventional way. I was sad to see them part, not having exchanged any info.
Little do they both know, they'll be seeing each other again soon. Belle goes on a vacation with her smarmy, self-centered boyfriend. He turns out to be Holden's cousin (poor Holden!!) I was NOT a fan. I was happy he was pulled away and asked Holden to take care of Belle (UGH!!) From there things were so enjoyable to watch as Holden that's and Belle starts seeing she deserves more. This was such a fun book!
Little do they both know, they'll be seeing each other again soon. Belle goes on a vacation with her smarmy, self-centered boyfriend. He turns out to be Holden's cousin (poor Holden!!) I was NOT a fan. I was happy he was pulled away and asked Holden to take care of Belle (UGH!!) From there things were so enjoyable to watch as Holden that's and Belle starts seeing she deserves more. This was such a fun book!
November 14, 2025
Strangers Holden and Belle shared a memorable mistletoe kiss with both of them thinking they’s never see each other again. Imagine the surprise they had when they are both at the Mynt Resort for a weeklong charity event. This is a novella, so you’ll be able to read this sweet love story in one sitting.
Things to look forward to:
dual POV
meet cute
mistletoe kiss
frosting fight
family group chats
This is a part of the Peppermint Playbook series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed seeing Belle help Holden see that he was a very special man and someone who deserves to be loved.
I received a copy of the book. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
Things to look forward to:
dual POV
meet cute
mistletoe kiss
frosting fight
family group chats
This is a part of the Peppermint Playbook series but can be read as a standalone. I enjoyed seeing Belle help Holden see that he was a very special man and someone who deserves to be loved.
I received a copy of the book. All opinions are my own, and I was not required to write a positive review.
November 12, 2025
Cute meet-cute. Awkward second-meet-cute. I love awkward. The story has a love triangle of sorts. But really one part of that triangle loves his job more than his girlfriend. The other two parts however... The fun Christmas activities the cute couple did were classics you'd see in a Christmas romance movie. And one could give a satisfied sigh...
Holden had some serious baggage from his childhood since he had the world's worst parents but thank heavens for the world's best aunt that made all the difference in his succeeding in life. And also thank heavens he found Belle. They are perfect for each other.
This was a cute story and I enjoyed it.
Holden had some serious baggage from his childhood since he had the world's worst parents but thank heavens for the world's best aunt that made all the difference in his succeeding in life. And also thank heavens he found Belle. They are perfect for each other.
This was a cute story and I enjoyed it.
November 19, 2025
Mistletoe kisses with a stranger who turns into more? Yes, please!
I loved watching Belle realize what she wants out of a relationship and that what she has isn’t it. Alex is so arrogant and self-centered that he doesn’t even realize what he’s losing out on.
Holden is such a sweetheart. Sure he’s a little grumpy at first, but he really does have the best heart. I love that he is so willing to jump in where needed.
This forced proximity, wrong “brother” (cousin), holiday romance is the 3rd book in the Peppermint Playbook Series. It is full of fun winter activities and two people who deserve all the love in the world.
I loved watching Belle realize what she wants out of a relationship and that what she has isn’t it. Alex is so arrogant and self-centered that he doesn’t even realize what he’s losing out on.
Holden is such a sweetheart. Sure he’s a little grumpy at first, but he really does have the best heart. I love that he is so willing to jump in where needed.
This forced proximity, wrong “brother” (cousin), holiday romance is the 3rd book in the Peppermint Playbook Series. It is full of fun winter activities and two people who deserve all the love in the world.
November 20, 2025
Checking You Twice is a has a great meet-cute! Thanks goodness Holden was there to catch Belle or she would have been seriously injured. They meet a second time at the Mynt Peak Resort. Holden is one of the sponsored athletes and Belle was invited by her workaholic boyfriend, Alex. I loved watching Belle learn that there were men who would see her for herself and not try to change her. I am grateful Holden learned he was worthy of love. Watching these two enjoy all the Christmas activities at the resort is a bonus. I just read straight through this well written, holiday perfect book!
November 13, 2025
Out of the 3 I’ve read so far, this one is my favorite! This was funny from start to finish. Girl has an almost accident and saved by a stranger. Repays stranger with an afternoon together. Stranger kisses her under the mistletoe. (Btw, stranger is a hunky pro hockey player but girl doesn’t know it). Stranger and girl meet again while she’s on a trip…with her boyfriend. Oh, did I mention her boyfriend and stranger are related? The texts between Belle and her siblings were hilarious! Holden was an adorable male lead. He has some childhood trauma, but starts to realize that doesn’t define him or his worth. Loved this one!
November 19, 2025
I loved this story, the meet-cute was so perfect, he really saved her and then the mistletoe kiss was “chef’s kiss” and that is just where the fun begins. Then the surprise when they saw each other for the second time was priceless. All the Christmas activities were so fun and creative. I enjoyed Holden and Belle’s sweet story, that was so swoony, had fun banter and some quirky characters a perfect holiday rom-com.
November 5, 2025
Meet-cute of two strangers vin New York leads to a perfect lunch date, and then back to reality. A surprise meeting at a week long Christmas celebration for a company that has a huge contingency of athletes finds the two strangers face to face. A Christmas miracle unfolds. Sweet and romantic story perfect for creating a bright spot in your day as we start the holiday season.
November 3, 2025
This is my voluntary review of a copy I was given.
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and I'm happily surprised. The plot was easy to follow and entertaining. The characters were realistic and likable. I loved the little twist.
This is my first time reading a book by this author, and I'm happily surprised. The plot was easy to follow and entertaining. The characters were realistic and likable. I loved the little twist.
November 15, 2025
This is a sweet Christmas romance. Holden doesn't know what hit him when he saves Belle from a fall off a balcony. Belle is a sweet ball of energy and fun. Holden is very guarded with a heart of gold. I love the balance these characters bring to each other.
November 19, 2025
Loved this one! A cute addition to the Peppermint Playbook and the Minnesota Wolves! Belle & Holden were adorable together and were the perfect match. Loved seeing all the Mynt events from Holden’s perspective!
November 19, 2025
This book has it all: a darling meet cute, a serendipitous catch, a mistletoe kiss, both expecting to part and never see each other again, one beautiful mountain resort, Christmas activities and a deadbeat boyfriend. There are no swears or alcohol and level 1 kisses only. Dual POV. 2 hour read.
November 25, 2025
Such a sweet holiday read that instantly captured my attention. Holden and Belle had sparks from first fall. I loved their connection and I loved seeing her break down his rough exterior.
Def check this one out!
Def check this one out!
November 30, 2025
A complicated relationship that should have ended long ago. A mystery man who saves you and kisses you under the mistletoe. A man you never thought you'd see again. Surprise, you end up at the same resort just before Christmas. Let the chaos begin. Funny, entertaining and real!
November 3, 2025
This was so fun. I couldn’t put it down. I loved how it tied in with the rest of the series and I loved Holden and Belle. Delightful read.
November 4, 2025
A sweet Christmas romance novella! Perfect if you are looking for a quick read!
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.
November 20, 2025
This book was so fun!!! I loved the grumpy/sunshine dynamic of Holden and Belle! The banter they had and the connection they gain throughout the book is so sweet. I really enjoyed their story!
November 26, 2025
Super cute & great
Larissa hommes is an auto read for me. You get all the gushy feelings with REAL characters. Absolutly loved it.
Larissa hommes is an auto read for me. You get all the gushy feelings with REAL characters. Absolutly loved it.
November 19, 2025
I absolutely adore Holden & Belles caring, sweet, myntastic, hopeful, loving , swoony happily ever after!!
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