Peppermint Kissed:

by Tory Baker

Coralynn Parker drives me wild.

She flirts, teases, and runs at a moment’s notice. And I’ve played along. Until now.

A hotel elevator.
A mechanical failure that locks us away from the outside world.

It should be a nightmare— except with her, it’s not.

One confession changes everything. She lets her guard down, allowing me to see the woman behind the armor.

This time, I’m not letting Coralynn Parker run.
Not when she tastes like peppermint and feels like mine.


Are you ready to see Doctor Anthony Gallo and Coralynn Parker get their Happily Ever After? You'll find all you need in this holiday romance. Add in a splash of forced proximity, tension of the sexy variety, and you’re in for a treat!

Genres: Christmas

94 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 15, 2025

About the author

Tory Baker is a mom of two teenagers and a dog mom to one wild and active Weimaraner, Remi. She lives in a small coastal town on the east coast of sunny Florida. Oftentimes you’ll find her outside soaking up the rays with at least three drinks surrounding her, a wandering imagination, and a notebook in hand where she’s jotting down a plot for her next story. She’s a lover of writing happily ever afters with Alpha heroes and sassy heroines.

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Reviews

[꧁ᙏᗣᙃⱿꙆᗣ꧂ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sugar & Spice Series :
✅ 1. All the Elf Kisses by Loni Nichole - (December 12, 2025) - 4 🧝♀ 🧝♀ 🧝♀ 🧝♀
𝐅𝐋𝐈𝐍𝐓 𝐒𝐓𝐎𝐂𝐓𝐎𝐍 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐒𝐀𝐎𝐈𝐑𝐒𝐄 𝐌𝐔𝐑𝐑𝐀𝐘 - We return to one of my favorite small towns, Silver Spoon Falls, for more hot and sweet cookies and some sugar canes 😊👍
The Cowboy and His Lost Elf is a hot entry into this holiday series.
spin off Silver Spoon Falls tom 2 pt. "Dillon's Heart" - Dillon Armstrong and Jules
and other.
✅ 2. Peppermint Kissed by Tory Baker - (December 15, 2025) - 3.5 🍹
𝐀𝐍𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐍𝐘 𝐆𝐀𝐋𝐋𝐎 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐂𝐀𝐑𝐎𝐋𝐘𝐍𝐍 𝐏𝐀𝐑𝐊𝐄𝐑 - Another delicious holiday treat with a little peppermint 🤩🍹 for health
combined with the series : Undercover Lovers Series
❌ 3. Hot Buttered Kisses by Loni Ree - (December 17, 2025)
❌ 4. Hot Chocolate Kisses by Mayra Statham (Author) , Cormar Covers (Illustrator) , Julia Goda - (December 19, 2025)
❌ ...

https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FRG3DVKM?...

[Marie’s Book Barn Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very lovely book, I loved forced proximity trope to it, I thought it was done really well.

It was a sweet and steamy read in a short romance so it was a perfect quick read that gave me all the feels and spicy vibes I want but didn’t take up a lot of time so it’s great for reading practically anywhere.

Highly recommend checking out

4/5.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Debi Williams · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short, sweet and steamy read. Tony has been chasing Coralynn for a while now, but since her mind has been in her sister’s wedding he got her in all the madness. No disappointments. Need a quick read this one is for you.
I received this as an arc and I am leaving my honest review

[Jovette Bossé · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony and Coralynn are perfect together! Such a powerful and beautiful love story! Soo soo good and soo soo H.O.T I absolutly loved it! 🥰❤️‍🔥❤️‍🔥❤️❤️😍

[Puna · Rating 3 out of 5]

The flirting, running and the chasing after between the MCs seems to work for others but I just wasn’t really feeling it.

[Nikki_Kate · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW!! Fab*u*lous Absolutely love this one!! I couldn't put this one down. This was a nice quick, short read.

Tony and Coralynn have known each other for a few weeks. Coralynn loves to kiss Tony then run from him. Tony loves to Chase after Coralynn. Coralynn's sister Shae Secret Seduction is getting married, and even though they don't have a traditional wedding Coralynn takes over maid of honor duties. Tony makes sure to get Coralynn's favorite peppermints and delivers them to her with hopes of her giving him a kiss. When Coralynn goes for gives night everyone wants to know what is going on between her and Tony. When Coralynn comes to Tony's home he lets her know this isn't a fling between them he wants her for the long haul. Tony pleasures Coralynn then they make love. The night before Coralynn's sister is getting married the wedding planner forgets things. Coralynn tries to cover it up but makes the wedding planner go get the things. When Tony finds out he tells some of the other guys, but they don't want Shae and Luke to find out. At Coralynn's sister's wedding Tony wants to dance with Coralynn. After their dance, Tony takes Coralynn to his hotel room, but they get stuck on the elevator. Coralynn confesses to Tony that she loves him and he gets upset because he wanted to tell her first. Firemen arrive and help Coralynn and Tony out of the elevator. After a night of lovemaking Tony follows Coralynn back into Whispering Oaks. After Tony takes a quick shower he's goes back to Coralynn's apartment, they have plans to go out. When Tony arrives Coralynn has other plans and they stay in. Two months later, Coralynn and her sister Shae's business is finished with the remodeling. Tony comes to help them celebrate but he has a surprise. Tony takes Coralynn up the elevator, but makes it stop. Tony asks Coralynn if she'll marry him and she tells him yes. When the elevator finally starts moving again, everyone is there to help them celebrate.

[Shawna · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Peppermint Kissed is a short, spicy holiday romance that delivers exactly what it promises—tight tension, forced proximity, and a swoony payoff that feels earned.

The elevator breakdown is a classic trope, but Tory Baker makes it feel fresh by focusing on emotional vulnerability as much as physical attraction. Coralynn’s habit of flirting and running is familiar, but her layers are revealed beautifully once she’s trapped—literally and emotionally—with Anthony. That single confession changes the entire dynamic, and it’s incredibly satisfying to watch the walls come down.

Anthony is the standout here. Calm, confident, and completely done letting Coralynn escape, he brings a grounded intensity that balances her restless energy perfectly. His determination doesn’t feel controlling—it feels intentional, protective, and deeply romantic. When he decides he’s not letting her run anymore, it lands as devotion, not dominance.

The holiday atmosphere is subtle but effective—peppermint, closeness, and warmth contrast nicely with the confined space of the elevator, heightening both the intimacy and the stakes. For a novella, the pacing is excellent: no wasted moments, no rushed emotions, just a clean arc from tension to trust to HEA.

If you love forced proximity, flirty banter, emotionally guarded heroines, decisive heroes, and a steamy holiday payoff, Peppermint Kissed is a delicious seasonal treat—short, sexy, and satisfying from start to finish 🍬❄️💋.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Vicki · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This book is part of the multi author Sugar and Spice series and is also connected to the author’s completed Undercover Lovers series. Although connected, this book can be read as a complete standalone if you wanted but I urge you to read the whole series. Out of the nine books in the completed series, there was only one that I didn’t really care for—in fact, I think that’s the ONLY book I’ve read by this author that wasn’t something I absolutely loved!

Tony and Coralynn, our MCs, embodied everything I love about the author’s MCs; feisty, take no crap FMC and hot, confident MMC. It definitely didn’t hurt that he was fluent in dirty talk either! Tony was a relative newcomer to the series, not part of the original group of best friends from childhood as the MMCs were in the Undercover Lovers series but I love hearing about them and dread having to say goodbye so as far as I’m concerned, the author can just keep introducing new characters into the friend group. I’d be content!

I hope you’ll give this book and the series a chance, check ‘em out, I expect you’ll come to love ‘em as much as I do! 4.5 stars

I received a copy of this book for free but am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Shalalah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peppermint Kissed is a deliciously fun holiday novella that proves sometimes all it takes is one broken elevator to turn sparks into something real. Coralynn and Tony’s dynamic crackles from the first page—full of playful teasing, unspoken feelings, and that irresistible “will-they-won’t-they” energy that keeps the pages turning.

Coralynn is sassy, guarded, and impossible not to love, while Tony’s steady patience and quiet intensity make him the perfect counterbalance. Watching their flirty standoff evolve into honesty felt earned, especially once the forced proximity strips away excuses and defenses. The confession at the heart of the story adds emotional depth without slowing the pace.

This novella shines at blending sweetness with heat, using the holiday setting and peppermint theme to give everything a cozy, festive glow. It’s quick, satisfying, and leaves you smiling by the end—exactly what you want from a seasonal romance.

If you enjoy friends-to-lovers stories, playful tension, and a holiday romance that delivers both heart and heat, Peppermint Kissed is a charming treat that lives up to its name.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Rainbowlovesbooks · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peppermint Kissed is Coralynn and Tony's story. We met them in the Undercover Lovers Series (brilliant series if you've not read it go and do that).

The chemistry between Tony and Coralynn is off the charts, it's high heat, stolen moments all while playing a cat and mouse game. One that Tony is determined to win, especially when the prize is getting his woman and keeping her.

If you enjoy
❤️ Instalove
❤️ Interlinking Characters (Undercover Lovers)
❤️ Christmas Time Romance
❤️ Steamy Scenes
❤️ Obsessed, Alpha MMC
❤️ Dirty Talk
❤️ Sunshine x Sunshine
❤️ No Cheating
❤️ No Drama
❤️ No Angst
❤️ Feel Good Vibes
❤️ 5 Star Read
❤️ HEAs

Brilliant instalove read from Tory, that you won't want to put down. It's part of the Sugar & Spice multi author series just in time for our Christmas instalove holiday reads ❤️

[Rebmay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coralynn is leading Tony on a merry chase, leaving him determined to finally catch and claim her. There is plenty of sizzle between them and full on combustion seems to be eminent. Though she has proven to be rather elusive, she is relishing the idea of being caught by the very handsome Doctor who has somehow stolen her heart. The business she owns with her sister is expanding and renovating the old building they own has taken up most of her time and energy, especially since her pregnant sister is busy with wedding plans and dealing with chaotic hormones. But she is ready to let the handsome doctor who feeds her peppermint addiction catch her and show her just what it means to be his.

This sizzling hot book has my recommendation.

[Tiffany Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Sweet Kisses!**

"Peppermint Kissed" by Tory Baker is the delightful second installment in the Sugar and Spice multi-author series. This charming holiday romance features Tony and Coralynn, where Coralynn keeps trying to dodge Tony while she helps her sister plan the wedding of her dreams. But Tony is not one to give up easily—he’s determined to win Coralynn’s heart, and their playful chase leads to some naughty and spicy moments!

What I adore about their story is that while it stands alone, it’s still connected to the Undercover Lovers series. We get to enjoy little glimpses of our favorite couples. At the same time, Tony and Coralynn find their HEA along the way. It’s such a sweet treat!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

From the time that Tony saw Coralynn he knew that they were meant to be together and he is more than willing to pursue her if that is what she wants as he knows that when he finally claims her it will only make it that much sweeter.

Coralynn likes being pursued by Tony however she wants to be sure before she takes the next step. When circumstances keep bringing them together because of her sister’s wedding to his partner they finally give into the sparks between them and there is no going back.

Coralynn’s sassy personality is a perfect match for Tony who knows she is his destiny. This is a fun, chemistry filled romance that is sure to bring a smile to your face and touch your heart.

[Amanda Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so excited when Tory announced she was writing Tony and Coralynn’s story and she did not disappoint me at all!
From the “cat and mouse” games to the elevator malfunction to being around the group of friends from the Undercover Lovers series, we saw so much story in a short book. It was a sweet novella.
Coralynn hasn’t ever really let a guy catch her. She is busy with her family, business and its expansion and becoming an aunt..she doesn’t have time for a relationship….that is until she meets Tony.
Tony is business partners with Luke (Secret Seduction) and knows when he first sees Coralynn that he will do whatever it takes to make her his…
Will Tony finally catch Coralynn? Will she keep running?
5 ⭐️
3.5 🌶️

[Wanda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome to Whispering Oaks where you get to know the group of friends and the women they fall hard and fast for. Dr. Anthony Gallo fell for Coralynn Parker at first sight. Coralynn’s sister Shea is engaged to Luke, Tony’s best friend and business partner at their OBGYN office. Coralynn and her sister Shea own Lithe, a fitness studio. The week before Luke and Shea’s wedding Tony finally gets Coralynn to stop playing hard together and running from him and their relationship goes from zero to 100. You get all the banter and teasing from the friends as well as the heat with Tony and Cora but this is a slightly shorter story than the rest.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kari Tidwell (karisbookstodevour) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A blazing hot, fun and sexy quick read! Coralynn and Tony make the chase charming, thrilling, and completely irresistible as the dance instructor and the doctor play a game of cat and mouse where they both know he’ll catch her, they both know once he does it’s forever, and they’re both loving every minute. It’s a foreplay and edging and seduction filled pleasure read where Tory Baker gives you a whole heck of a lot with just a little, making it a story that feels sinful and divine and speed of light fast while at the same time building a relationship that screams trust, safety, and always, and it works insanely well and gives you a straight up addictive novella.

[Char · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ah, peppermint is a fresh, strong, invigorating, warm, sweet, cool minty flavor. Coralynn loves peppermint. She has been playing hard-to-get for over a year when it comes to Dr. Tall, Dark and Handsome Tony. But she has decided to change her ways and find out what Tony wants from her. She is filled with peppermint kisses and they are a big part of her- feisty, sassy, sexy, hot dance instructor who has a few moves to show the good doctor. Tony is ready for whatever makes Coralynn happy, as long as it is him! Good storytelling. Bold, dynamic characters. Great storyline and I can’t wait until the next one!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jennifer Brewster · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peppermint Kissed is Coralynn & Tony's story. Coralynn is the younger sister to Shea and they own LITHE together. Tony is medical partners with Luke, who is also Shea's man. They have been playing a game of cat and mouse for a while now. Their chemistry was never even a question. The only question was when was Coralynn going to stop running and let Tony catch her.

I loved that Coralynn, while definitely being her own person, also shared so many traits with her sister. Like her tendency to ramble when she is flustered or upset. Tony knows that Coralynn is his endgame, so he goes out of his way to be in her orbit. After just one kiss, Coralynn is reasy to stop running too.

Their story was the perfect amount of sugar and spice. I am not only excited for the rest of this series, but I also can't wait for Tory's new series in January.

[Hanna Barker · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is a part of the Sugar & Spice series and focuses on Anthony and Coralynn. Anthony and Coralynn have been doing a game of chase for some time before. Anthony knows that Coralynn is the one for him so he has no problem chasing her for a little bit while he breaks down her walls. I loved Anthony and Coralynn together and how once they decided to fully jump in, they were both all in right away. This was a great story and a great addition to the series.



I received a free copy of this book via the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Aspen G · Rating 5 out of 5]

Peppermint Kissed is spicy hot and super sweet! It loved watching Gallo and Corallyn are explosive—their chemistry leading up to this novella was tantalizing, and their story is just a chef’s kiss of deliciousness! Dr Tony Gallo is the complete package, and I adore how he makes his intentions known and clear from the get go. Their flirty banter and fun friend group is amazingly written. This is the perfect holiday treat, with no drama or angst and a ton of sugar and spice. Loved it!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberly · Rating 5 out of 5]

A cute and hot cat and mouse game totally Tory style. Enjoy being drawn into this short story where Coralynn has drawn Tony into an enticing chase. At first she is having too much fun teasing and running away but when Tony shows he is so much more and will always be there her view on relationships and the continued chase change.

I love this short book involving characters beyond the “Group”, and can’t wait to see where this might lead. Into a new series or as the group expands more HEAs.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Jenny Harris · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this book with the understanding that I could leave a voluntary and honest review.

In this book we meet Coralynn Parker & Anthony "Tony" Gallo. Tony has been chasing the woman of his dreams for awhile now. He knows one thing though she is the one for him and he is determined to prove it to her. Coralynn knows that Tony is the one for her but she likes a good chase. She gives him just enough to keep him coming back for more. Can these two find their HEA or will the case be all they have?

Another amazing story by this author. I would highly recommend it to anyone.

[Melissa Wilson · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is part of a multi author series called Sugar & Spice. I've been waiting for Coralynn and Tony's book since meeting them toward the end of Undercover Lovers series. Coralynn loves making sexy doctor Tony chase her and he couldn't get enough. There was a lot of chemistry between the characters. Enjoyable read. Liked that Tory Baker kept the characters involved from Undercover Lovers series.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Fran · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is one steamy hot spicy read. Dr. Anthony Gallo has been chasing Coralynn Parker for months. Every time he thinks he catches her she runs. And as Coralynn’s sister’s wedding gets closer will Tony ever be able to catch her. This is a quick read, spicy and hot, with lots of steam. Well written and fast paced. I enjoyed it immensely but I got tired of the running because it seems Coralynn was running for nothing.

[Robin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony & Coralynn

I just love Whispering Oaks. The men there seem to fall hard and fast. And they take very good care of the women they love. I am so happy to see Tony and Coralynn find their happily ever after together. She definitely led him on a merry chase, but what an amazing ending. Love these two and thoroughly enjoyed their story. Definitely looking forward to more from Whispering Oaks!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kris · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tony is Obsessed with Coralynn…
He’s been chasing, and she’s been elusive…

This was one fun story.. Loved the games, loved how open Tony was about his goals (aka, Coralyn in his home… and his bed), Loved the entire group of characters.

Spicy, sweet, dirty, and so much fun to read. A swoony MMC and a fesity MFC… bliss….

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Crystal · Rating 4 out of 5]

I just can't say no to a quick, steamy novella that I can finish in a couple hours. I don't know why I resisted them for so long because now I'm addicted. Peppermint Kissed was so good! I love that while it is a novella, I was treated to a romance with depth while still being insta-love and was quick to read. It was also a spicy introduction to Tory Baker's writing. I'm looking forward to exploring her books in the future.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Didi · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been anticipating Coralynn’s story and it was sweet and spicy. Anthony has been chasing after the sassy Caralynn hoping to maker her his. Her sister’s wedding provides the perfect proximity to capture his “trouble”. Hot steamy dirty talk moments, humor, a bit of wedding drama, an elevator confession and a forever. Enjoyed every moment!

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Syd Springer · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a short but very cute read! Tony and Coralynn were great together. Coralynn likes to flirt and runaway but Tony is letting her get away. Tony is willing to do anything to finally catch his woman and it was a great read! I enjoyed getting to see the other couple I loved in the Undercover Loves make appearances. This was a great addition to the Sugar & Spice series and I can’t wait for more!

I received an e-book copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving an honest review.

[Indie · Rating 5 out of 5]

loved it !! love this series !! love Tony and Coralynn.. this is their love story... a fun fast paced rom/com drama... she's all flirty and sass then, she runs... he's been trying to catch her for months now ... then, the elevator breaks down with them in it !! she has nowhere to run... now is his chance... ! so good !!!.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.