What do you think?
Rate this book
Nutmeg & Mistletoe
- GenresAudiobook
558 pages, Paperback
Published November 1, 2025
2 people are currently reading
41 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
December 21, 2025
Nutmeg and Mistletoe by T.L. Martin is one of those books that reminds me why I love contemporary romance so deeply—especially during the holiday season.
Let me start with the characters, because that’s where this book truly shines. I was genuinely taken by the maturity of the writing, particularly in how the two main female characters are portrayed. Their friendship felt intentional, grounded, and emotionally intelligent. Even when serious conflicts arose, these women communicated openly and worked through their differences in ways that felt realistic and refreshing. I loved that.
And the men? They were giving. This book is such a strong example of how romance can be deeply engaging, emotionally layered, and unapologetically spicy—without sacrificing substance. It honestly made me pause and ask myself why books like this aren’t more visible during award seasons or major book conversations. This is proper contemporary romance, with hints of depth and emotional resonance that deserve recognition.
At its core, this story follows parallel love stories between a father and his daughter. The father meets an incredible woman in Vegas—an instant, electric connection that feels intense and real. But, as we all know, what happens in Vegas usually stays in Vegas… or so they think. At the same time, the daughter also experiences her own unexpected and unplanned connection under unusual circumstances. She leaves the very next morning, thinking that chapter is closed.
Months later, both father and daughter find themselves facing the past in unexpected ways. The daughter ends up working in the same place as the man she once walked away from. Meanwhile, the woman the father met months earlier also enters his professional orbit. Suddenly, past decisions collide with present realities, and both stories must be navigated carefully.
Because this is also a sports romance, there’s a rich backdrop of sports PR and business politics woven into the narrative. I loved watching the characters balance their personal lives with professional responsibilities, especially as their emotional histories complicated everything. It added a layer of realism that grounded the romance beautifully.
This book is also about friendship, family, timing, and love—romantic and otherwise. And when it comes to spice? T.L. Martin writes passionate, intimate scenes so well. The chemistry, the tension, the emotional buildup—I enjoyed every bit of it.
What really surprised me is that this was one of the author’s earlier books for me. I picked up my first T.L. Martin novel just yesterday, and I’ve already read three. That alone should tell you how captivating her writing is.
Nutmeg and Mistletoe is the first book in the Atlanta Strikers series, and I’m especially intrigued by the choice to spotlight world football within an American setting. There are subtle Easter eggs throughout the novel hinting at future stories, and I’m genuinely excited to see how those threads unravel in the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a satisfying, immersive read. I absolutely loved it, enjoyed every moment, and I cannot wait to read more from this author—especially during the holiday season.
Let me start with the characters, because that’s where this book truly shines. I was genuinely taken by the maturity of the writing, particularly in how the two main female characters are portrayed. Their friendship felt intentional, grounded, and emotionally intelligent. Even when serious conflicts arose, these women communicated openly and worked through their differences in ways that felt realistic and refreshing. I loved that.
And the men? They were giving. This book is such a strong example of how romance can be deeply engaging, emotionally layered, and unapologetically spicy—without sacrificing substance. It honestly made me pause and ask myself why books like this aren’t more visible during award seasons or major book conversations. This is proper contemporary romance, with hints of depth and emotional resonance that deserve recognition.
At its core, this story follows parallel love stories between a father and his daughter. The father meets an incredible woman in Vegas—an instant, electric connection that feels intense and real. But, as we all know, what happens in Vegas usually stays in Vegas… or so they think. At the same time, the daughter also experiences her own unexpected and unplanned connection under unusual circumstances. She leaves the very next morning, thinking that chapter is closed.
Months later, both father and daughter find themselves facing the past in unexpected ways. The daughter ends up working in the same place as the man she once walked away from. Meanwhile, the woman the father met months earlier also enters his professional orbit. Suddenly, past decisions collide with present realities, and both stories must be navigated carefully.
Because this is also a sports romance, there’s a rich backdrop of sports PR and business politics woven into the narrative. I loved watching the characters balance their personal lives with professional responsibilities, especially as their emotional histories complicated everything. It added a layer of realism that grounded the romance beautifully.
This book is also about friendship, family, timing, and love—romantic and otherwise. And when it comes to spice? T.L. Martin writes passionate, intimate scenes so well. The chemistry, the tension, the emotional buildup—I enjoyed every bit of it.
What really surprised me is that this was one of the author’s earlier books for me. I picked up my first T.L. Martin novel just yesterday, and I’ve already read three. That alone should tell you how captivating her writing is.
Nutmeg and Mistletoe is the first book in the Atlanta Strikers series, and I’m especially intrigued by the choice to spotlight world football within an American setting. There are subtle Easter eggs throughout the novel hinting at future stories, and I’m genuinely excited to see how those threads unravel in the rest of the series.
Overall, this was such a satisfying, immersive read. I absolutely loved it, enjoyed every moment, and I cannot wait to read more from this author—especially during the holiday season.
January 3, 2026
This book was the perfect end to my year! There are real life laugh-out-loud situations throughout the book. Strong female characters and men to obsess over.
The book follows two storylines and gives you viewpoints from the 4 main characters. The story takes place around the holidays and gives you all the good feelings you want from a winter read.
I’m obsessed with Declan a tattooed, sexy, Italian man. Top 5 book boyfriend for sure!
I can’t wait to read other books by this author!
The book follows two storylines and gives you viewpoints from the 4 main characters. The story takes place around the holidays and gives you all the good feelings you want from a winter read.
I’m obsessed with Declan a tattooed, sexy, Italian man. Top 5 book boyfriend for sure!
I can’t wait to read other books by this author!
November 19, 2025
Nutmeg & Mistletoe
T. L. Martin
Omissions, Love and Scandal
What is the holiday season without a little unpredictability? Grant and Marlow are the father daughter duo that keep the plot barreling forward. Their bond is solid and closer than most relationships. One wild Vegas night changes everything for them. Some secrets are best revealed with this strong drink.
Grant is enamored by Eslin’s disposition. The first night they meet it is clear that this interaction shouldn’t be the end for them. Eslin has a good head on her shoulders. She’s professional, kind and relatable. She doesn’t let her profession dictate who she is outside of work. She’s well-rounded in a way that allows her imperfections to be endearing. Grant is self-assured and stable. He hasn’t taken finding love seriously in a long while. Eslin’s presence makes him reevaluate those previous notions.
Marlow is experiencing a myriad of changes in her life. Rapidly, things are happening to and for her. I think in an effort to have control over some of those changes she makes a choice presumably, outside of her norm. Anything to make her feel in control. The choice to entertain a partnership with Declan. I thoroughly enjoyed his tenacity. What is marriage without its ups and downs? Rough patches are just par for the course.
While the banter and scenarios are hilarious, it doesn’t take away from how nuanced T.L. Martin’s writing is. In this diverse cast, racial disparities was not a major point of contention. While it is important in regards to socialization and identity, the plot wasn’t contingent on that factor. At no point was Eslin’s blackness in regards to authenticity questioned. The foundation of the book stayed focused on what the characters were actually going through.
This is a lovely book to start your holiday season. It gave me all the feels, excitement and laughter.
#readandtellwithshantel #TLMartin #ARC #Nutmeg&Mistletoe
T. L. Martin
Omissions, Love and Scandal
What is the holiday season without a little unpredictability? Grant and Marlow are the father daughter duo that keep the plot barreling forward. Their bond is solid and closer than most relationships. One wild Vegas night changes everything for them. Some secrets are best revealed with this strong drink.
Grant is enamored by Eslin’s disposition. The first night they meet it is clear that this interaction shouldn’t be the end for them. Eslin has a good head on her shoulders. She’s professional, kind and relatable. She doesn’t let her profession dictate who she is outside of work. She’s well-rounded in a way that allows her imperfections to be endearing. Grant is self-assured and stable. He hasn’t taken finding love seriously in a long while. Eslin’s presence makes him reevaluate those previous notions.
Marlow is experiencing a myriad of changes in her life. Rapidly, things are happening to and for her. I think in an effort to have control over some of those changes she makes a choice presumably, outside of her norm. Anything to make her feel in control. The choice to entertain a partnership with Declan. I thoroughly enjoyed his tenacity. What is marriage without its ups and downs? Rough patches are just par for the course.
While the banter and scenarios are hilarious, it doesn’t take away from how nuanced T.L. Martin’s writing is. In this diverse cast, racial disparities was not a major point of contention. While it is important in regards to socialization and identity, the plot wasn’t contingent on that factor. At no point was Eslin’s blackness in regards to authenticity questioned. The foundation of the book stayed focused on what the characters were actually going through.
This is a lovely book to start your holiday season. It gave me all the feels, excitement and laughter.
#readandtellwithshantel #TLMartin #ARC #Nutmeg&Mistletoe
November 2, 2025
Strong Women, Irresistible Men, Unforgettable Love
Strong, self-assured women who don’t need a man—but have men who enhance their lives...that’s the heart of Nutmeg & Mistletoe, and it’s what made me fall completely in love with this story. I was all in—cheering, crying, and laughing out loud as I followed these beautifully written characters and their intertwined love stories.
T.L. Martin once again delivers a story that pulls on every emotion, blending love, vulnerability, and empowerment in the most beautiful way. I adored the genuine connections that formed as Eslin explained Black culture to Marlow. Grant’s quiet appreciation for Eslin and the simple joys they shared absolutely melted my heart. And Declan? The way this Italian, tattooed heartthrob gave Marlow everything she didn’t even realize she needed —pure magic.
I can’t wait for the next installment to see whose story unfolds. If you’re looking for a slow-burn, cozy, and emotionally rich holiday romance, Nutmeg & Mistletoe will warm your heart all season long. ❤️
Strong, self-assured women who don’t need a man—but have men who enhance their lives...that’s the heart of Nutmeg & Mistletoe, and it’s what made me fall completely in love with this story. I was all in—cheering, crying, and laughing out loud as I followed these beautifully written characters and their intertwined love stories.
T.L. Martin once again delivers a story that pulls on every emotion, blending love, vulnerability, and empowerment in the most beautiful way. I adored the genuine connections that formed as Eslin explained Black culture to Marlow. Grant’s quiet appreciation for Eslin and the simple joys they shared absolutely melted my heart. And Declan? The way this Italian, tattooed heartthrob gave Marlow everything she didn’t even realize she needed —pure magic.
I can’t wait for the next installment to see whose story unfolds. If you’re looking for a slow-burn, cozy, and emotionally rich holiday romance, Nutmeg & Mistletoe will warm your heart all season long. ❤️
December 27, 2025
Thank goodness for algorithms & the gift of cyber chats🤭 🎁📖🤩‼️ A Thread reel for this book “Hook, Line & Star-Crossed (Atlanta Strikers Series)”, which was only the cover release 🤷🏾♀️….however was the perfect impetus to my 2026 literary goal of discovery/support of new Author’s, genres & or books. Meanwhile, a quick chat & book search led to this new (for me🤭) Author T.L. Martin & the fantabulous adventures of daughter/dad duo, Marlow & Grant Mills and their desire to be “chosen” in “Nutmeg & Mistletoe: A Billionaire Sports Holiday Romance (Atlanta Strikers Series)” - Book 1. “N & M…” was masterfully written, hilariously entertaining & yet emotionally relatable, endearing & profound 🥰‼️….”N&M…” is/was an absolute holiday🎄delight 👏🏿👏🏾👏🏽💞💐‼️….Ooh, don’t be intimidated by the book’s length either.🤣
October 21, 2025
You ever read a book that feels like a whole movie playing in your head? This one did that for me. It’s vivid, emotional AF, and captures the beautiful chaos of love, family, and everything in between.
There’s found family, real-life laughter, a little (okay, a lot of) spice, and those moments that make your chest tighten because you feel it so deeply. And the best part? It celebrates HallothankMas… all three holidays, each one with its own messy magic.
Most importantly this is a great read for those of us looking for something more out of the holiday season and our holiday books… and books in general!
There’s found family, real-life laughter, a little (okay, a lot of) spice, and those moments that make your chest tighten because you feel it so deeply. And the best part? It celebrates HallothankMas… all three holidays, each one with its own messy magic.
Most importantly this is a great read for those of us looking for something more out of the holiday season and our holiday books… and books in general!
November 18, 2025
We all know how romance books ends, ESP the holiday ones, but it’s the joy of reading how they got to that HEA that I love and Ms Martin def did that with this story!!
This storyline was so good and I literally felt all of the feels! Laughter, sadness, hope, excitement… love! She really did her big one with this story, this is my absolute favorite book by her!
Two bad ass FMCs and two handsome MMCs who love them and can’t get enough! A single and widower dad, a soccer player, workplace romance, great banter; and, to me, it was more than just about romantic love… it was about friendship too!
One night in Vegas changed their lives… and I enjoyed the entire journey!.
This storyline was so good and I literally felt all of the feels! Laughter, sadness, hope, excitement… love! She really did her big one with this story, this is my absolute favorite book by her!
Two bad ass FMCs and two handsome MMCs who love them and can’t get enough! A single and widower dad, a soccer player, workplace romance, great banter; and, to me, it was more than just about romantic love… it was about friendship too!
One night in Vegas changed their lives… and I enjoyed the entire journey!.
November 25, 2025
talk about what happens in Vegas.... well thats not the case here . What happens when a playboy dad promises his adult daughter that he will change his scandalous behavior and walk the straight and narrow path??? of course they land in Vegas and he meets the next love of his life maybe 🤔. What happens when that same daughter who is trying to gain her place out of the shadows of her Uber successful dad in the sports world on the cusp of greatness meets her match on this same Vegas trip??? we get mayhem at it's best . Vegas follows them back to Atlanta and the things that unfold leave you with Nutmeg, Mistletoe and Love ❤️ the perfect ingredients for a holiday book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2025
At first, it was confusing with the 2 storylines and was hard to keep track of. However, as I kept reading, it got easier. I still wasnt the biggest fan of having two different couples with 4 povs but it worked. I love the complications between Eslin and Grant! They are my favorite becsuse of the age gap, complications with his daughter, power imbalance, and who Eislin is to the team. It added so much drama and made me giggle. Declan and Marlow are cute and adorable but not the stars of the book for me. Grant and Eislin take that honor. For being almost 500 pages, it didnt feel like it.
November 23, 2025
Nutmeg & Mistletoe captures the heart of a holiday romance, stirring emotion, bold storytelling, and beautifully chaotic moments that keeps you sucked in from the first page to the last.
Grant and Marlow’s parallel love stories are so vivid and full of heart, blending real life complicated family dynamics, humor, and the kind of yearning you never saw coming. The chemistry is explosive and the banter is top-tier.
What makes this book shine is how deeply it taps into connection of found family, loyalty, sacrifices, and those breath taking moments that hit you right in the heart. And the spice? Let’s just say both couples understood the assignment 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵🥵
In my opinion, this is Taccarra's best work yet! It’s heartfelt, it’s fun, it’s fiery, and I loved EVERY second. I can’t wait to see what she creates next!
Now available on Amazon, KU and Audio
Grant and Marlow’s parallel love stories are so vivid and full of heart, blending real life complicated family dynamics, humor, and the kind of yearning you never saw coming. The chemistry is explosive and the banter is top-tier.
What makes this book shine is how deeply it taps into connection of found family, loyalty, sacrifices, and those breath taking moments that hit you right in the heart. And the spice? Let’s just say both couples understood the assignment 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🥵🥵
In my opinion, this is Taccarra's best work yet! It’s heartfelt, it’s fun, it’s fiery, and I loved EVERY second. I can’t wait to see what she creates next!
Now available on Amazon, KU and Audio
December 6, 2025
This book was such a good read for the Holidays, I could most definitely see it as a Hallmark or Lifetime movie. I love the Age-Gap trope and the found friendships in a new and different way. The author did such a good job with creating two relationships I was able to be invested in and she made the characters so relatable in my honest opinion. All I know is I want more, can’t wait for next book in the series.
January 3, 2026
I had to stop and start this book several times. A lot of POVs, similar storylines, and trying to remember who was with who and why was a bit exchausting. When it finally got to the meat and bones, it was good. I enjoyed Eslin and Grant, and honestly the entire book just could have been about them and I would have been happy.
December 20, 2025
Enjoyed the multiple POV's
January 2, 2026
I cant wait to read more about these couples. 4.75☆
January 1, 2026
I loved everyone about this story. The drama. The scandal. The banter. The father daughter relationship. The friendship between the women. I loved every single second of this story and cannot wait to read more from this author.
December 9, 2025
One of her best books!! It’s got heat like Fitz and Olivia in Scandal, multiple hot guy plots, and best of all, the gurl friend group who never lets you down!
Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews