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You're A Mean One, Mr. Green
Past
Grace thought her future was set. Her senior year would be late-night secrets with her best friend Alison, banter with Alison’s twin Tim, and a forever kind of love with Christopher. Life with the powerful Pierre family gave her a sense of belonging and a way out of the chaos at home. Every December, their Christmas tree lighting promised magic and safety for the small town of Snowberry Hollow.
Until one night shattered it all.
Present
Now a reporter, Grace swore she was done with the Pierres. But when her best friend pushes her to investigate the family, she’s pulled into their glittering Holiday Matchmaking Gala, where the prize is nothing less than Alison and Tim’s weddings. To chase the truth, Grace pretends to fall for Tim. Then she meets Nick Green, the stranger who steals her breath but hides dangerous secrets of his own.This Christmas, Grace will uncover how tightly the Pierres grip the town and how thin the line between love and ruin really is.
Grace thought her future was set. Her senior year would be late-night secrets with her best friend Alison, banter with Alison’s twin Tim, and a forever kind of love with Christopher. Life with the powerful Pierre family gave her a sense of belonging and a way out of the chaos at home. Every December, their Christmas tree lighting promised magic and safety for the small town of Snowberry Hollow.
Until one night shattered it all.
Present
Now a reporter, Grace swore she was done with the Pierres. But when her best friend pushes her to investigate the family, she’s pulled into their glittering Holiday Matchmaking Gala, where the prize is nothing less than Alison and Tim’s weddings. To chase the truth, Grace pretends to fall for Tim. Then she meets Nick Green, the stranger who steals her breath but hides dangerous secrets of his own.This Christmas, Grace will uncover how tightly the Pierres grip the town and how thin the line between love and ruin really is.
- GenresChristmas
216 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
6 people are currently reading
46 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
October 27, 2025
ARC Review!
Okay! Wow I am NOT a fan of the mushy,cozy, romances but this book has been the best one I’ve read. When I say I could not put this book down…I lost sleep over this book. Very well written and the twist and turns were perfect! I love how the Author brought the characters to life and made them seem real with real world problems and a little Hallmark pizazz. I would 10000% read this again!
Okay! Wow I am NOT a fan of the mushy,cozy, romances but this book has been the best one I’ve read. When I say I could not put this book down…I lost sleep over this book. Very well written and the twist and turns were perfect! I love how the Author brought the characters to life and made them seem real with real world problems and a little Hallmark pizazz. I would 10000% read this again!
November 5, 2025
Thank you, @leighjack, for the gifted ARC!
Rundown:
✨️past/present timelines
✨️Christmas novella
✨️secrets/lies/murder
✨️powerful family
✨️small town
Synopsis ✒️
Grace grew up in the small town of Snowberry Hollow with her best friend Alison Pierre and Alison's twin brother, Tim. The Pierre family is powerful and influential in Snowberry Hollow, and Grace's mother was one of the many people who worked for them. One night, everything changed as Grace's mother forced her to leave town, never speaking to Alison or Tim again. Years later, Grace thought she was done with the town and the Pierre family, but with all these unanswered questions, Grace decided to investigate what actually happened.
Thoughts 💭
I think this is my favorite Leigh Jack book! Each one just keeps getting better and better. This is not your typical Christmas romance. It is way more complex with twists and secrets. The story is divided into past and present timelines. I was completley wrapped up in the "past" part of this story and thought I knew exactly how it was going to play out but then the "present" starts and I was thrown for a loop. There's now new characters and a ton of history. It's hard to predict how the story will end, although I was able to guess the twist (and it's pretty crazy)! I think this book will appeal to a wide range of readers. It's short and easy to read, has a sweet romance, but reads like a thriller with crazy moments. You won't regret picking this one up!
Rundown:
✨️past/present timelines
✨️Christmas novella
✨️secrets/lies/murder
✨️powerful family
✨️small town
Synopsis ✒️
Grace grew up in the small town of Snowberry Hollow with her best friend Alison Pierre and Alison's twin brother, Tim. The Pierre family is powerful and influential in Snowberry Hollow, and Grace's mother was one of the many people who worked for them. One night, everything changed as Grace's mother forced her to leave town, never speaking to Alison or Tim again. Years later, Grace thought she was done with the town and the Pierre family, but with all these unanswered questions, Grace decided to investigate what actually happened.
Thoughts 💭
I think this is my favorite Leigh Jack book! Each one just keeps getting better and better. This is not your typical Christmas romance. It is way more complex with twists and secrets. The story is divided into past and present timelines. I was completley wrapped up in the "past" part of this story and thought I knew exactly how it was going to play out but then the "present" starts and I was thrown for a loop. There's now new characters and a ton of history. It's hard to predict how the story will end, although I was able to guess the twist (and it's pretty crazy)! I think this book will appeal to a wide range of readers. It's short and easy to read, has a sweet romance, but reads like a thriller with crazy moments. You won't regret picking this one up!
November 4, 2025
ARC Review — “You’re A Mean One, Mr. Green” by Leigh Jack
This book gave me exactly what I wanted from a cozy Christmas read — with a twist! Leigh Jack blends romance, mystery, and small-town charm into a story that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Grace Redd, a reporter who returns to her hometown of Snowberry Hollow to dig into the powerful Pierre family, instantly pulled me in. Her investigation into the family’s dark secrets — and the tragedy that still haunts the town — gave the story more depth than your usual holiday romance. And Nick Green? Let’s just say he’s the kind of mysterious, broody heir you can’t help falling for (even when you know you shouldn’t).
The chemistry between Grace and Nick was great — a slow build with just the right amount of tension. The mystery added an edge that kept me turning pages late into the night, and the snowy small-town setting made it feel like the perfect holiday escape.
My only tiny complaint is that, as a novella, I wanted more time with the characters and their backstory — but honestly, that just proves how invested I was.
If you love Christmas stories with a little spice, a little suspense, and a lot of heart, You’re A Mean One, Mr. Green deserves a spot on your winter TBR.
✨ Perfect for fans of: holiday mysteries, slow-burn romance, and second-chance hometown stories
This book gave me exactly what I wanted from a cozy Christmas read — with a twist! Leigh Jack blends romance, mystery, and small-town charm into a story that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Grace Redd, a reporter who returns to her hometown of Snowberry Hollow to dig into the powerful Pierre family, instantly pulled me in. Her investigation into the family’s dark secrets — and the tragedy that still haunts the town — gave the story more depth than your usual holiday romance. And Nick Green? Let’s just say he’s the kind of mysterious, broody heir you can’t help falling for (even when you know you shouldn’t).
The chemistry between Grace and Nick was great — a slow build with just the right amount of tension. The mystery added an edge that kept me turning pages late into the night, and the snowy small-town setting made it feel like the perfect holiday escape.
My only tiny complaint is that, as a novella, I wanted more time with the characters and their backstory — but honestly, that just proves how invested I was.
If you love Christmas stories with a little spice, a little suspense, and a lot of heart, You’re A Mean One, Mr. Green deserves a spot on your winter TBR.
✨ Perfect for fans of: holiday mysteries, slow-burn romance, and second-chance hometown stories
November 5, 2025
ARC REVIEW!! If you like cozy, mushy romances then this book is for you. I fell in love with the characters. I couldn’t put this book down, I literally read it in one sitting. Very well written and the twist and turns were perfect! I love the way the author brought the characters to life for me. I felt like I was in the story with them. This book is a quick and easy read that will keep you on your toes and gasping at the twists and turns.
November 20, 2025
This was a beautifully written book! It tells a story that so many people have to live through everyday. Also, a story of rebirth that plenty of people wish for! This shows the love between families, couples, and friends! I can't wait to read more from Leigh Jack!!!
December 9, 2025
This book is a mystery romance story that was quick and easy to read. If you enjoy reading young adult books you’ll enjoy this one and will be pulled into the story wondering what’s next!
November 12, 2025
I was lucky to receive this as an arc! This was such a cute Hallmark feeling book in all the best ways! It had a great plot with mystery feel but yet still so cheery feeling and light! I loved it a lot and will definitely be checking out more books from Leigh Jack!!
October 19, 2025
Romance, banter, mystery, this book has it all!
If you need a cute and cozy Christmas novella, this one is a quick and easy read that will keep you on your toes and gasping at the twists and turns. I really enjoyed this Christmas novella by Leigh Jack ❤️
If you need a cute and cozy Christmas novella, this one is a quick and easy read that will keep you on your toes and gasping at the twists and turns. I really enjoyed this Christmas novella by Leigh Jack ❤️
November 5, 2025
This is my first book by Leigh Jack. I went in reading with no expectations other than a holiday read. What I found was something unexpected. While it is a cozy romance based around Christmas, it is so much more… On the outside it’s witty banter, first loves, true friendships. But underneath, it’s a cruel turn of events that scatters the friends and leaves them not communicating for a decade when Gracie’s job, as a budding reporter. brings her to her small home town to write about potholes and dangerous intersections around town. Suddenly, Grace is thrown into the event of the year and what could possibly be the scandal of the decade. This is a definite must read YA book for older teens and all adults wanting thrills, laughs, intrigue and a little romance peppered in, mostly closed door with the exception of a tiny bathroom scene.
November 15, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5 (rounded up)
I want to thank Leigh Jack and Indie Inkbound Sisterhood LLC for the opportunity to ARC read this book, I’m very grateful.
Spoiler warning! ⚠️
I do my best to write spoiler free reviews, but sometimes they slip in.
This one was a mixed experience for me and while I appreciate the author’s creativity and the ambition behind the concept, it ultimately didn’t land the way I hoped.
My feedback:
•Unfortunately cover doesn’t match the story and threw me off more than I expected. (This was a shame as I loved the cover). The branding suggests a cosy, cute Christmas romance. Something light, sweet and tropey (I was thinking maybe a brothers best friend/grumpy boss). Instead, the book leans into a mystery/thriller adjacent narrative with small-town secrets. The story itself is unique, but the packaging sets expectations the plot doesn’t follow.
• I also struggled with the believability of the relationships:
- Theres a significant reconciliation that happens so quickly it didn’t feel earned.
- MMC’s complete lack of resentment doesn’t ring true considering their history.
- MMC and FMC’s romance didn’t feel fully grounded either. They dated briefly as teenagers, but the adult narrative positions their connection as lifelong and unforgettable, which wasn’t fully supported on-page for me to buy into.
• The high school timeline dominates the first nineteen chapters and while the chapters are short, spending that much time in a 17 year old’s head made the pacing feel unbalanced. I think these scenes would have worked better as flashbacks woven into the present timeline. I think staying so long in the past was a bit jarring, because when we got to the present day some chapters still read with the emotional voice of a teenager rather than a fully grown adult.
• This was a short, very quick read (just over an hour for me) and while that’s not a drawback (I do love a quick read), it didn’t leave much room to deepen the emotional connection or flesh out the story.
My positive takeaways:
• The small-town atmosphere is charming, and the author paints the setting with warmth and seasonal vibes.
• The mystery elements were engaging and certainly not the typical Christmas romance fare; the blending of genres is a great concept.
• The short chapters make it incredibly accessible and easy to fly through, which many readers will appreciate.
• And most importantly, the core idea really does shine! The premise is fresh, and there’s a solid foundation for a bigger, more emotionally layered story. The potential in the concept is clear and genuinely enjoyable to read.
I want to thank Leigh Jack and Indie Inkbound Sisterhood LLC for the opportunity to ARC read this book, I’m very grateful.
Spoiler warning! ⚠️
I do my best to write spoiler free reviews, but sometimes they slip in.
This one was a mixed experience for me and while I appreciate the author’s creativity and the ambition behind the concept, it ultimately didn’t land the way I hoped.
My feedback:
•Unfortunately cover doesn’t match the story and threw me off more than I expected. (This was a shame as I loved the cover). The branding suggests a cosy, cute Christmas romance. Something light, sweet and tropey (I was thinking maybe a brothers best friend/grumpy boss). Instead, the book leans into a mystery/thriller adjacent narrative with small-town secrets. The story itself is unique, but the packaging sets expectations the plot doesn’t follow.
• I also struggled with the believability of the relationships:
- Theres a significant reconciliation that happens so quickly it didn’t feel earned.
- MMC’s complete lack of resentment doesn’t ring true considering their history.
- MMC and FMC’s romance didn’t feel fully grounded either. They dated briefly as teenagers, but the adult narrative positions their connection as lifelong and unforgettable, which wasn’t fully supported on-page for me to buy into.
• The high school timeline dominates the first nineteen chapters and while the chapters are short, spending that much time in a 17 year old’s head made the pacing feel unbalanced. I think these scenes would have worked better as flashbacks woven into the present timeline. I think staying so long in the past was a bit jarring, because when we got to the present day some chapters still read with the emotional voice of a teenager rather than a fully grown adult.
• This was a short, very quick read (just over an hour for me) and while that’s not a drawback (I do love a quick read), it didn’t leave much room to deepen the emotional connection or flesh out the story.
My positive takeaways:
• The small-town atmosphere is charming, and the author paints the setting with warmth and seasonal vibes.
• The mystery elements were engaging and certainly not the typical Christmas romance fare; the blending of genres is a great concept.
• The short chapters make it incredibly accessible and easy to fly through, which many readers will appreciate.
• And most importantly, the core idea really does shine! The premise is fresh, and there’s a solid foundation for a bigger, more emotionally layered story. The potential in the concept is clear and genuinely enjoyable to read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 17, 2025
Leigh Jack’s You’re a Mean One, Mr. Green is the perfect blend of small-town Christmas charm, sharp emotional tension, romantic chemistry, and dark family secrets. It’s cozy enough to make you want hot cocoa… but simmering with secrets that keep the pages turning long after midnight. A true five-star winter treat.
The story follows Grace, once a lonely teen who found belonging—maybe even her “forever”—with the powerful Pierre family of Snowberry Hollow. Their annual Christmas tree lighting once meant safety, magic, and tradition. But one traumatic night shattered it all, forcing Grace to rebuild her life far away from the people who broke her heart.
Now, years later, Grace returns as a reporter determined to expose the truth behind the Pierres’ iron grip on the town. Her investigation pulls her into the glittering, high-stakes Holiday Matchmaking Gala, where pretending to fall for her old friend Tim becomes a risky game of deception. Grace is torn between loyalty, revenge, nostalgia… and the undeniable spark she feels with Nick Green, the enigmatic stranger who sees straight through her, even while keeping secrets of his own.
Jack masterfully balances romance, mystery, and emotional depth. Grace is a heroine readers will immediately root for—witty, wounded, brave, and determined to reclaim her story. Her dynamic with Tim is filled with tension and unresolved history, while her connection with Nick crackles with chemistry and unexpected vulnerability.
The Pierre family themselves are brilliantly drawn—glamorous, powerful, and deeply unsettling. As Grace digs deeper into their traditions and influence, the glitter fades, revealing the rot beneath the surface. Watching her uncover the truth is as gripping as any thriller, yet the book never loses its warm, holiday-romance heart.
The story follows Grace, once a lonely teen who found belonging—maybe even her “forever”—with the powerful Pierre family of Snowberry Hollow. Their annual Christmas tree lighting once meant safety, magic, and tradition. But one traumatic night shattered it all, forcing Grace to rebuild her life far away from the people who broke her heart.
Now, years later, Grace returns as a reporter determined to expose the truth behind the Pierres’ iron grip on the town. Her investigation pulls her into the glittering, high-stakes Holiday Matchmaking Gala, where pretending to fall for her old friend Tim becomes a risky game of deception. Grace is torn between loyalty, revenge, nostalgia… and the undeniable spark she feels with Nick Green, the enigmatic stranger who sees straight through her, even while keeping secrets of his own.
Jack masterfully balances romance, mystery, and emotional depth. Grace is a heroine readers will immediately root for—witty, wounded, brave, and determined to reclaim her story. Her dynamic with Tim is filled with tension and unresolved history, while her connection with Nick crackles with chemistry and unexpected vulnerability.
The Pierre family themselves are brilliantly drawn—glamorous, powerful, and deeply unsettling. As Grace digs deeper into their traditions and influence, the glitter fades, revealing the rot beneath the surface. Watching her uncover the truth is as gripping as any thriller, yet the book never loses its warm, holiday-romance heart.
November 11, 2025
📚✨ ARC REVIEW ✨📚
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Green
⭐️⭐️.5 (2.5/5 stars)
Thank you to the author for providing a free ARC!
I appreciated that this wasn’t your typical Christmas romance, despite what the cover might suggest. It had a refreshing concept with mystery and suspense woven in—but I found myself wishing it had leaned fully into one direction. Either stay in the high school timeline with a darker Veronica Mars-style noir vibe, or shift everything to the present for an adult romantic suspense. It was hard to believe that Grace would remain in the dark for ten years about her father’s death and her boyfriend Christopher’s disappearance. Picking one timeline could’ve made the story feel much more grounded.
The pacing was also a challenge, especially in the past timeline. For all the butterflies Grace felt around Christopher—her boyfriend all through high school—she moved on to Tim surprisingly fast after losing him. The short timeline made her feel a bit wishy-washy, and I didn’t fully buy into her love for Christopher. I would’ve loved about 100 more pages of actual dates and tender moments to really sell their connection. Similarly, the bachelor-style matchmaking gala in the present felt rushed; a bit more time with “Kristi” doing real investigative journalism could’ve elevated the suspense and payoff.
Still, I enjoyed the unique mix of mystery and romance—it just needed more depth and pacing to truly land.
For fans of: 🕵️ Romantic suspense | 🏘️ Small town | 👨👩👧 Found family | 💔 Love triangle | ⏳ Dual timelines
#ARCReview #YoureAMeanOneMrGreen #RomanticSuspense #SmallTownRomance #DualTimeline #LoveTriangle #FoundFamily #BookReview #RomanceReaders #Bookstagram
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Green
⭐️⭐️.5 (2.5/5 stars)
Thank you to the author for providing a free ARC!
I appreciated that this wasn’t your typical Christmas romance, despite what the cover might suggest. It had a refreshing concept with mystery and suspense woven in—but I found myself wishing it had leaned fully into one direction. Either stay in the high school timeline with a darker Veronica Mars-style noir vibe, or shift everything to the present for an adult romantic suspense. It was hard to believe that Grace would remain in the dark for ten years about her father’s death and her boyfriend Christopher’s disappearance. Picking one timeline could’ve made the story feel much more grounded.
The pacing was also a challenge, especially in the past timeline. For all the butterflies Grace felt around Christopher—her boyfriend all through high school—she moved on to Tim surprisingly fast after losing him. The short timeline made her feel a bit wishy-washy, and I didn’t fully buy into her love for Christopher. I would’ve loved about 100 more pages of actual dates and tender moments to really sell their connection. Similarly, the bachelor-style matchmaking gala in the present felt rushed; a bit more time with “Kristi” doing real investigative journalism could’ve elevated the suspense and payoff.
Still, I enjoyed the unique mix of mystery and romance—it just needed more depth and pacing to truly land.
For fans of: 🕵️ Romantic suspense | 🏘️ Small town | 👨👩👧 Found family | 💔 Love triangle | ⏳ Dual timelines
#ARCReview #YoureAMeanOneMrGreen #RomanticSuspense #SmallTownRomance #DualTimeline #LoveTriangle #FoundFamily #BookReview #RomanceReaders #Bookstagram
December 9, 2025
When I slammed my headphones down my big ol' head I was expecting to settle in for a cozy, cute Christmas romance. What I was NOT expecting was to be WWE DDT'd through my headphones as this story kicked off with sweet teen love which was quickly followed by murder, lies, scandal, heartbreak and the decimation of friendships.
I don't what about any of that screams 'Christmas spirit', but when I tell you I put my nips in their upright position and buckled tf up to finish the story, I am not even kidding.
Because after that WWE cage match of emotionals we were thrown into a plot for and carefully structured plan for revenge.
And honestly, it had my full support.
I was rooting for Grace to get her lick back.
I stayed on the edge of my seat as I listened along and flipped the pages of the book in Kindle.
Leigh Jack did a great job of keeping it holiday-esque while also weaving it full of suspense and giving you just enough clues to try and figure things out along the way.
Not to brag, but I figured it out in advance, but I'm also an avid Crime Junkie and in my book every is suspicious and/or guilty until proven otherwise. 💅
It was the perfect little Christmas novella to kick off my December reading. And if you like the tropes below, it will be perfect for you too.
🎄 Christmas Novella
🔍 Mystery/Suspense
🎄 FMC Reporter/Dog Walker
🔍 Secret Identity
🎄 Second Chance Romance
🔍 Fake Dating
🎄 Love Triangle
🔍 Found Family
🎄 Powerful Family with Secrets
🔍 Small Town
🎄 HEA
I don't what about any of that screams 'Christmas spirit', but when I tell you I put my nips in their upright position and buckled tf up to finish the story, I am not even kidding.
Because after that WWE cage match of emotionals we were thrown into a plot for and carefully structured plan for revenge.
And honestly, it had my full support.
I was rooting for Grace to get her lick back.
I stayed on the edge of my seat as I listened along and flipped the pages of the book in Kindle.
Leigh Jack did a great job of keeping it holiday-esque while also weaving it full of suspense and giving you just enough clues to try and figure things out along the way.
Not to brag, but I figured it out in advance, but I'm also an avid Crime Junkie and in my book every is suspicious and/or guilty until proven otherwise. 💅
It was the perfect little Christmas novella to kick off my December reading. And if you like the tropes below, it will be perfect for you too.
🎄 Christmas Novella
🔍 Mystery/Suspense
🎄 FMC Reporter/Dog Walker
🔍 Secret Identity
🎄 Second Chance Romance
🔍 Fake Dating
🎄 Love Triangle
🔍 Found Family
🎄 Powerful Family with Secrets
🔍 Small Town
🎄 HEA
November 2, 2025
I was lucky enough to get the chance to do an ARC read for this book. What an amazing cozy Christmas mystery and love story! This book starts in the past where you follow Grace our main character. Grace has a rough childhood, but she has some great friends and a boyfriend she can count on to make it all bearable. However, tragedy strikes her family and Grace is forced to leave town , break ties with those she had for support, and start over. Cut to the present, Grace is now an adult and chooses to move back home. She’s an aspiring reporter and is talked into going undercover to investigate rumors and hopefully uncover a big story on an important family in town. Will her old friends still be in town, if so will they recognize her and what if these rumors are true what does it mean for them all. This book was a really quick cozy holiday read, a fun mystery and also a cute love story. Even though I feel that I was able to figure out the story, when the reveal did happen it was still heartwarming and fun to confirm any suspicions I had. Both past and present are set at Christmas time and this author does a great job at pulling in some of the things that many love about Christmas twinkling lights, snow, hot cocoa and Christmas magic.
December 10, 2025
A Hallmark Christmas movie with mystery, suspense, and Bachelor-style games!
This was such a fun, quick read - perfect for anyone looking to pad their reading goals before the year ends.
The book is set in a charming small town that basically treats Christmas like a full-scale annual event. It has the classic “powerful family with buried secrets” setup, but what made it stand out was how the characters drifted apart and ultimately came back together in the end.
I really enjoyed the alternating past and present timelines (just a heads-up that the beginning touches on some darker themes). The Bachelor/Bachelorette-style games added a playful twist to an otherwise serious, mystery-driven plot. The romances were sweet, too; though they definitely had a YA feel at times, which was funny considering the characters are pushing 30.
The twists and turns were predictable but still really satisfying. Since the story leans into cozy thriller vibes (if that’s even a thing) the predictability didn’t bother me at all. If anything, it was kind of comforting to be right the whole time (though that might just be a me thing lol)
This was such a fun, quick read - perfect for anyone looking to pad their reading goals before the year ends.
The book is set in a charming small town that basically treats Christmas like a full-scale annual event. It has the classic “powerful family with buried secrets” setup, but what made it stand out was how the characters drifted apart and ultimately came back together in the end.
I really enjoyed the alternating past and present timelines (just a heads-up that the beginning touches on some darker themes). The Bachelor/Bachelorette-style games added a playful twist to an otherwise serious, mystery-driven plot. The romances were sweet, too; though they definitely had a YA feel at times, which was funny considering the characters are pushing 30.
The twists and turns were predictable but still really satisfying. Since the story leans into cozy thriller vibes (if that’s even a thing) the predictability didn’t bother me at all. If anything, it was kind of comforting to be right the whole time (though that might just be a me thing lol)
December 24, 2025
I have to say this is my first book by Leigh and she truly got a home run with this book. It isn’t your typical Christmas romance, it has a mystery and heartbreak and lost and so much more. Leigh will have you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. She’ll suck you into the world she created for this book and leave you wanting more.
This book centers on two characters Grace, whose mom was a maid for a wealthy couple and their family. She had a father who was the town drunk and use to hurt her and her mom. Something bad happened and her boyfriend at the time disappeared. She left and didn’t return for many years.
Then comes meeting Nick Green, one of her clients. She walks his dog, she can’t put her finger on it. But he gets her all worked up in a good way. He flirts a little with her. He is someone that plays a big part into what happened years ago and wants to help her find out what really happened.
It’s a mystery with Christmas elements and some romance thrown in. Not really spicy more like cute romance. But definitely a book you’ll want to check out.
This book centers on two characters Grace, whose mom was a maid for a wealthy couple and their family. She had a father who was the town drunk and use to hurt her and her mom. Something bad happened and her boyfriend at the time disappeared. She left and didn’t return for many years.
Then comes meeting Nick Green, one of her clients. She walks his dog, she can’t put her finger on it. But he gets her all worked up in a good way. He flirts a little with her. He is someone that plays a big part into what happened years ago and wants to help her find out what really happened.
It’s a mystery with Christmas elements and some romance thrown in. Not really spicy more like cute romance. But definitely a book you’ll want to check out.
November 11, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book and I enjoyed it! I went in expecting a somewhat cheesey YA Christmas Romance, but was delightfully surprised to find mystery and intrigue on top of the romance. We start in the past with teenage Grace and her best friend Alison navigating high school crushes. Alison is torn between her boyfriend Christopher and Alison's twin brother, Tim. Grace has a troubled home life and uses Alison and Tim's home as an escape. When Grace thinks she may have things in the romance department figured out her life is turned upside down. We flash forward to the future. Grace is now a reported and has to go undercover on an important assignment to uncover some hard truths. Without giving to much away it kept me intrigued throughout. While some things in the book were a little confusing and could've been fleshed out a bit, it was an interesting, sweet read. Definitely check it out if you love YA romance with a little suspense thrown in.
November 30, 2025
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Green
By: Leigh Jack
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Genre: Mystery Christmas Romance
Released: 11/11
Small Town Secrets
🕵️♂️Lost Love
❤️ It Was Always You
Secrets/Murder/Lies
🕵️♂️Found family
❤️Second Chance
This is a cute Christmas romance wrapped with suspense and mystery! Which is definitely my fav! We have 2 POV from the past to the present. Grace childhood was the worst but with her best friend Alison and her boyfriend Christopher by her side nothing else can go wrong! This is not the case! Grace and her mom had no to leave the home they only knew and her best friend Alison. Only to come back 12 years later to finally find the truth of what really happened.
This book made my heart so happy at the end for Gracie! For her to go through what she went through as a child and have her happily ever after at the end.
Thank you so much to Leigh for providing me with an ARC!
As a reminder please always check TWs!
By: Leigh Jack
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
Genre: Mystery Christmas Romance
Released: 11/11
Small Town Secrets
🕵️♂️Lost Love
❤️ It Was Always You
Secrets/Murder/Lies
🕵️♂️Found family
❤️Second Chance
This is a cute Christmas romance wrapped with suspense and mystery! Which is definitely my fav! We have 2 POV from the past to the present. Grace childhood was the worst but with her best friend Alison and her boyfriend Christopher by her side nothing else can go wrong! This is not the case! Grace and her mom had no to leave the home they only knew and her best friend Alison. Only to come back 12 years later to finally find the truth of what really happened.
This book made my heart so happy at the end for Gracie! For her to go through what she went through as a child and have her happily ever after at the end.
Thank you so much to Leigh for providing me with an ARC!
As a reminder please always check TWs!
December 8, 2025
I really loved this book. It hooked me right away, and the twist with Nick actually being Christopher had me staring at the page like excuse me?? I did not see it coming like that. And then finding out Tim was behind everything… I low-key suspected him in the beginning, but still — the way it all unfolded was wild.
The whole situation with Alison getting moved out confused me a little, because it’s not like she knew what was really going on. If she had stayed living with them, she probably would’ve ended up dating Tim, and honestly she might’ve even married him. It’s weird thinking about how differently everything could’ve gone.
But what I really loved was how Alison and her ended up coming together in the end. They didn’t let the whole situation turn them into enemies. Instead, they teamed up, figured everything out, and found their way back to each other as friends. It made the ending feel really full-circle and satisfying.
This book had twists, drama, and a sweet emotional payoff, and I enjoyed every bit of it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 — fun, twisty, and surprisingly heartfelt.
The whole situation with Alison getting moved out confused me a little, because it’s not like she knew what was really going on. If she had stayed living with them, she probably would’ve ended up dating Tim, and honestly she might’ve even married him. It’s weird thinking about how differently everything could’ve gone.
But what I really loved was how Alison and her ended up coming together in the end. They didn’t let the whole situation turn them into enemies. Instead, they teamed up, figured everything out, and found their way back to each other as friends. It made the ending feel really full-circle and satisfying.
This book had twists, drama, and a sweet emotional payoff, and I enjoyed every bit of it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5/5 — fun, twisty, and surprisingly heartfelt.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 10, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️
✔️ Christmas Novella
✔️ Small Town
✔️ Second Chance
I usually try to go in pretty blind to my books/novellas and I’ve gotta admit it caused me to be so surprised with this one! With the cover and title I really thought this was gonna just be a mushy Christmas romance but it was so much more! Without spoiling anything there was so much going on. I really enjoyed the mystery element in this one because it really kept me guessing…to the point where all my thoughts had to pivot when we went from the past to the present. 🤣 I also loved the self gratification of figuring out the two major twists. LOL. The characters are enjoyable and I loved the full circle moments. ❤️ Overall this is a cute novella that will keep you on your toes.
🌶️
✔️ Christmas Novella
✔️ Small Town
✔️ Second Chance
I usually try to go in pretty blind to my books/novellas and I’ve gotta admit it caused me to be so surprised with this one! With the cover and title I really thought this was gonna just be a mushy Christmas romance but it was so much more! Without spoiling anything there was so much going on. I really enjoyed the mystery element in this one because it really kept me guessing…to the point where all my thoughts had to pivot when we went from the past to the present. 🤣 I also loved the self gratification of figuring out the two major twists. LOL. The characters are enjoyable and I loved the full circle moments. ❤️ Overall this is a cute novella that will keep you on your toes.
November 23, 2025
I don’t know what I was expecting but it wasn’t this (In a good way!!). Hallmark meets Sherlock Holmes in a perfect mix of Christmas and mystery. This felt cozy yet thrilling all in one neatly wrapped present. The twists and turns had me engaged the entire time. I was so thrown for a loop at the “big reveal”. I honestly could have guessed it but it still caught me so off guard! I couldn’t believe my eyes! Leigh is so clever and I don’t know how she gets so many books out! I need that inspiration in my life!! My only complaint here is how quickly the book was over 😭 I didn’t want it to end! I need a full length Nick and Grace story! Leigh is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors ❤️ I can’t wait to read the next book she’s got cooking!
October 23, 2025
My first time reading Leigh’s book. How charming is Snowberry Hollow where Grace has had a rough childhood with a dad who drinks and her mom who works for the Pierre’s who are wealthy. Alison and Tim are twins who are Grace’s best friend . Christopher is her first love. When Christopher is charged with the murder of Grace’s dad and then suddenly her and mom have to move away she loses contact with Alison. Leigh takes you from the past to present where Grace now all grown up is a reporter who goes undercover to write a story of the Pierre’s. There is a lot of twists that you will not be expecting. Such a cozy Christmas read and I recommend you read it.
October 27, 2025
You’re a Mean One, Mr. Green by Leigh Jack was such a cute and cozy Christmas novella! Set in Snowberry Hollow, this story mixes a small-town holiday charm with a touch of mystery as you help unravel a murder right in the middle of all the Christmas magic.
It’s filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing right up until the end. I loved how it balanced the cozy holiday vibes with a dash of intrigue… perfect for when you want something festive but not too sweet.
This quick read definitely got me into the holiday spirit! If you’re looking for something short, mysterious, and full of small-town charm, add this one to your December TBR. 🎅✨
It’s filled with twists and turns that kept me guessing right up until the end. I loved how it balanced the cozy holiday vibes with a dash of intrigue… perfect for when you want something festive but not too sweet.
This quick read definitely got me into the holiday spirit! If you’re looking for something short, mysterious, and full of small-town charm, add this one to your December TBR. 🎅✨
November 4, 2025
ARC review
I'm a little conflicted with this book. The first 40% is all in the past and then it jumps to the present. I feel like the past was a lot of filler and the important parts could have been told in flashbacks vs the first 40%. the whole Christmas Matchmaking thing doesn't really coming into play until over 50% into the book, which was kind of a bummer because I feel like that just got sped through and we didnt get much of that part. It was a bit predictable and I knew most of the twists and reveals well before they were revealed in the story.
I did love the premise of the story though, the whole mystery and undercover concept.
I'm a little conflicted with this book. The first 40% is all in the past and then it jumps to the present. I feel like the past was a lot of filler and the important parts could have been told in flashbacks vs the first 40%. the whole Christmas Matchmaking thing doesn't really coming into play until over 50% into the book, which was kind of a bummer because I feel like that just got sped through and we didnt get much of that part. It was a bit predictable and I knew most of the twists and reveals well before they were revealed in the story.
I did love the premise of the story though, the whole mystery and undercover concept.
November 6, 2025
⭐️⭐️.5 Stars
ARC Review
I loved the premise of this book. Teen love torn apart to be brought back together 10 years later. Add in the almost thriller vibe with twists and mystery and it went straight to the top of my TBR.
Unfortunately, it fell flat.
This book feels like an outline of a really great novel.
The plot, romance, and intrigue were there, but it was so simplified. I truly wish the author would have made this into a full length novel with more emotion and connection with the characters.
Overall, If you are looking for a quick and simple Christmas romance with lots of drama this could be the book for you. It just wasn't for me.
ARC Review
I loved the premise of this book. Teen love torn apart to be brought back together 10 years later. Add in the almost thriller vibe with twists and mystery and it went straight to the top of my TBR.
Unfortunately, it fell flat.
This book feels like an outline of a really great novel.
The plot, romance, and intrigue were there, but it was so simplified. I truly wish the author would have made this into a full length novel with more emotion and connection with the characters.
Overall, If you are looking for a quick and simple Christmas romance with lots of drama this could be the book for you. It just wasn't for me.
November 10, 2025
Thank you @leighjack for the ARC.
This book had me hooked from page 1!
Small town romance, murder and mystery.
Grace lives in Snowberry Hollow with her parents, best friend Alison and her twin brother, Tim. It is set at Christmas time of their senior year of high school with circumstances that change their entire lives. The story alternates from past and present with first loves, lies, secrets, murder and deception.
Many years later, Grace moves back to her hometown for a job opportunity. Can Grace trust her estranged friend and high school boyfriend, as she discovers the truth of what really happened that night?
This is a MUST read for the holiday season.
This book had me hooked from page 1!
Small town romance, murder and mystery.
Grace lives in Snowberry Hollow with her parents, best friend Alison and her twin brother, Tim. It is set at Christmas time of their senior year of high school with circumstances that change their entire lives. The story alternates from past and present with first loves, lies, secrets, murder and deception.
Many years later, Grace moves back to her hometown for a job opportunity. Can Grace trust her estranged friend and high school boyfriend, as she discovers the truth of what really happened that night?
This is a MUST read for the holiday season.
November 11, 2025
I was lucky enough to receive an early copy of this book and I enjoyed it! What a cute YA Christmas Romance/Mystery. It starts out with Grace and her best friend Alison in their senior year of high school. Alison is torn between her boyfriend Christopher and Alison's twin brother, Tim. Grace dad is a drunk and her mom has to work to help support them. She works for Alison and Tim’s parents, Grace uses Alison and Tim's home as a safe space away from her dad.
10 years later Grace goes under cover to find out the truth about the mystery. Definitely check out this YA romance/mystery.
Also check out Leigh’s other 3 books.
10 years later Grace goes under cover to find out the truth about the mystery. Definitely check out this YA romance/mystery.
Also check out Leigh’s other 3 books.
December 9, 2025
This is not your typical christmas romance novella. To me, it was more of a complex, twisty thriller/mystery. It is written in past and present timelines in two different parts.
It follows Grace, her best friend Alison and Alisons Twin brother, Tim. After tragedy strikes Grace and her mom, they are forced to move in with Alison and Tim's family sharing a home. Until one day Grace and her Mom are forced to move out and leave town and leave Alison and Tim behind never to talk to them again.... that is until she stumbles upon them at the family party in the future. Then the truth starts to show itself on what really happened, and why they had to leave town.
It follows Grace, her best friend Alison and Alisons Twin brother, Tim. After tragedy strikes Grace and her mom, they are forced to move in with Alison and Tim's family sharing a home. Until one day Grace and her Mom are forced to move out and leave town and leave Alison and Tim behind never to talk to them again.... that is until she stumbles upon them at the family party in the future. Then the truth starts to show itself on what really happened, and why they had to leave town.
November 6, 2025
ARC REVIEW!!!
This was such a great book. I was so happy to receive this book as an ARC because it was truly amazing. It's been awhile since I read a book that I just couldn't put down and this was it. There was romance, a past and present timeline, a love triangle and so many twists. Ahhh I just loved it so much!!Oh and the way Leigh writes is just so amazing. She describes things so well you feel like you are right there in the book. It was the best way to kick off my Christmas TBR!!! I hope everyone gets a chance to read this book this Christmas because it really was awesome.
This was such a great book. I was so happy to receive this book as an ARC because it was truly amazing. It's been awhile since I read a book that I just couldn't put down and this was it. There was romance, a past and present timeline, a love triangle and so many twists. Ahhh I just loved it so much!!Oh and the way Leigh writes is just so amazing. She describes things so well you feel like you are right there in the book. It was the best way to kick off my Christmas TBR!!! I hope everyone gets a chance to read this book this Christmas because it really was awesome.
November 6, 2025
ARC review:
This is my first Leigh Jack book to read, so I had nothing to compare it to.
It is a fast read or at least for me it was. I enjoyed the nod to A Christmas Carol where it went from past to present. The characters were well thought out and the mystery was unexpected. I knew it would be a rom com, but it kind of felt like a thriller as well. I did end up guessing a lot of what happened in the book which is why it didn't get a full 5 ⭐️ . I did enjoy it though especially right before all the holidays kick off soon.
This is my first Leigh Jack book to read, so I had nothing to compare it to.
It is a fast read or at least for me it was. I enjoyed the nod to A Christmas Carol where it went from past to present. The characters were well thought out and the mystery was unexpected. I knew it would be a rom com, but it kind of felt like a thriller as well. I did end up guessing a lot of what happened in the book which is why it didn't get a full 5 ⭐️ . I did enjoy it though especially right before all the holidays kick off soon.
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