What do you think?
Rate this book
Frozen Promises
The holidays are a time for friendship, celebration, and love. Or, in Catalina Ayala's case, a time for frozen, empty promises.
Tired of always coming second to her workaholic lawyer husband, this plus-size, lifestyle vlogger decides it's high time to live for herself. She flees to a snowy resort in hopes of mending her broken heart and deciding if her marriage is worth fighting for.
Elias Ayala loves his wife. He's worked to provide so she wouldn't want for anything, but somewhere along the way he put work before her. And now, he's suffering the consequences.
When Catalina leaves him, he becomes desperate to win her back. He'll need to reevaluate every decision he's made and chase after her before the holiday ends to prove he's not giving her—or their love—up without a fight.
Tired of always coming second to her workaholic lawyer husband, this plus-size, lifestyle vlogger decides it's high time to live for herself. She flees to a snowy resort in hopes of mending her broken heart and deciding if her marriage is worth fighting for.
Elias Ayala loves his wife. He's worked to provide so she wouldn't want for anything, but somewhere along the way he put work before her. And now, he's suffering the consequences.
When Catalina leaves him, he becomes desperate to win her back. He'll need to reevaluate every decision he's made and chase after her before the holiday ends to prove he's not giving her—or their love—up without a fight.
102 pages, Paperback
Published October 7, 2025
3 people are currently reading
59 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 - 30 of 72 reviews
September 4, 2025
I had the pleasure of reading an advance copy of this book and I absolutely DEVOURED it. Anastasia Dean…Frozen Promises is a triumph. Emotional, sexy, smart, and extremely entrancing.
October 1, 2025
This was the perfect mix of sweet, spicy and heartwarming, for this Christmas second chance at love novella.
It's about reconnecting, finding that spark again, and learning to live in the present together, and not take things for granted.
Catalina has the sweetest friends that sweep her off to a snowy cabin for Christmas and help with her heartache, while Elias has some grovelling to do, and boy does he pull it off and more.
It's about reconnecting, finding that spark again, and learning to live in the present together, and not take things for granted.
Catalina has the sweetest friends that sweep her off to a snowy cabin for Christmas and help with her heartache, while Elias has some grovelling to do, and boy does he pull it off and more.
Read
December 23, 2025DNF at 20% because I am not rooting for you, bro.
October 1, 2025
First off, thank you to Anastasia for giving me the opportunity to read this book before it comes out next week. This was such a CUTE book, and really set the tone for my holiday season reading! This novella had me in all my feels with all the different emotions and trope’s throughout this brilliant story! Elias really put in the work to show Catalina that he still loves her and was willing to make their marriage work! I absolutely LOVED Caesar and his “tough love” approach he had on Elias. I think it really opened up Elias eyes. I can’t wait for the second book in this series!!
February 3, 2026
Frozen Promises is the first book in the Holiday Billionaire Romance series and I devoured it. It was just so addictive and such a nice little treat. Yes it is set at Christmas time, but not overly done so I felt fine reading it now. This was my first book by Anastasia and it will not be my last. I am starting the second one right now which is Valentine's day themed. Right from the first page I knew it was going to be good. The writing was amazing, the story was fun and straight to the point. The body positivity is fantastic, I love reading about plus size FMC’s that are strong, confident in their own skin and know how gorgeous they are.
The chemistry, tension and love between Elias & Catalina was so intense and I was here for it. They both loved each other fiercely, but somehow started to lose one another. I loved how Elias groveled for her, how he stepped up, took charge and worshipped his woman. Watching them fall back together was so beautiful. For a novella it was really well done and I didn't feel like anything was missing!
Overall, for me this was a stellar novella. I loved the story, their romance and their chemistry. I am excited to dive into book 2.
The chemistry, tension and love between Elias & Catalina was so intense and I was here for it. They both loved each other fiercely, but somehow started to lose one another. I loved how Elias groveled for her, how he stepped up, took charge and worshipped his woman. Watching them fall back together was so beautiful. For a novella it was really well done and I didn't feel like anything was missing!
Overall, for me this was a stellar novella. I loved the story, their romance and their chemistry. I am excited to dive into book 2.
December 23, 2025
I LOVE Frozen Promises! This is a quick holiday second-chance romance but it's written very well! We love a plus-size queen who has had enough of the BS and decides to stand up for herself. We also love a hot billionaire husband that fights to save his marriage. I'm so excited for the next book!
October 15, 2025
Spice 1
I was able to read this story ahead of its release date thanks to Anastasia Dean
Recommend to someone looking for a book that deals with marriage struggles.
I really enjoy when romance stories revolve around a married couple struggling. It’s the other side to the HEA.
Elias is the over working husband who came from nothing and made it his mission that his wife would want for nothing. Unfortunately he forgot to pay attention to what his wife needs. Him.
Catalina is a housewife turned Vlogger. That feels like her husband has chosen work over her. Over his marriage. An after thought.
After one last missed dinner she has enough and leaves him. Unfortunately, for all her anger and feelings she gives in too soon.
I felt like he love bombs her into going back to him.
His desire to get her back felt more possessive and physical than rooted in his actual love or to have her emotionally.
I wish she would’ve made him work harder. It seemed like a bunch of gifts and a surprise visit was all it took for her to forget what I’m assuming were years or months of neglect.
The MMC had some flags to be honest. Tracking her location. At one point before they are intimate she asks him what he will do if she says no. He tells her that he would stop but his inner narrative has I’m confessing he had no plans in stopping.
In the epilogue there are signs that he has changed and incorporated more of himself into her world so that was good. I just wished I would have seen more of him trying different approaches to getting her back in the story or had them have a conversation before getting into bed again.
I know it's a novella so space is limited. It just wasn’t the broken marriage arc I was hoping for. Maybe if it was a full length story.
Small pet peeve is that the characters speak some Spanish so I’m assuming they are Mexican or Latino but there is no descriptive way to confirm that. I wish there would have been because I love some solid Mexican/Latino rep.
Overall for a quick Christmas novella it wasn’t bad.
I was able to read this story ahead of its release date thanks to Anastasia Dean
Recommend to someone looking for a book that deals with marriage struggles.
I really enjoy when romance stories revolve around a married couple struggling. It’s the other side to the HEA.
Elias is the over working husband who came from nothing and made it his mission that his wife would want for nothing. Unfortunately he forgot to pay attention to what his wife needs. Him.
Catalina is a housewife turned Vlogger. That feels like her husband has chosen work over her. Over his marriage. An after thought.
After one last missed dinner she has enough and leaves him. Unfortunately, for all her anger and feelings she gives in too soon.
I felt like he love bombs her into going back to him.
His desire to get her back felt more possessive and physical than rooted in his actual love or to have her emotionally.
I wish she would’ve made him work harder. It seemed like a bunch of gifts and a surprise visit was all it took for her to forget what I’m assuming were years or months of neglect.
The MMC had some flags to be honest. Tracking her location. At one point before they are intimate she asks him what he will do if she says no. He tells her that he would stop but his inner narrative has I’m confessing he had no plans in stopping.
In the epilogue there are signs that he has changed and incorporated more of himself into her world so that was good. I just wished I would have seen more of him trying different approaches to getting her back in the story or had them have a conversation before getting into bed again.
I know it's a novella so space is limited. It just wasn’t the broken marriage arc I was hoping for. Maybe if it was a full length story.
Small pet peeve is that the characters speak some Spanish so I’m assuming they are Mexican or Latino but there is no descriptive way to confirm that. I wish there would have been because I love some solid Mexican/Latino rep.
Overall for a quick Christmas novella it wasn’t bad.
October 9, 2025
*Alexa play Back to December*
Frozen Promises is book one of Anastasia Dean's, A Holiday Billionaire Romance duo.
Plus-size, Texas girl, Catalina Ayala, is a successful lifestyle vlogger, who shares her life with millions of followers. She lives a busy life filming content that is relatable to her followers, yet with a million pairs of eyes watching her everyday, there's only one person's attention she wants more than anything, her husband.
Elias Ayala, is a hardworking lawyer who comes from immigrant parents. His only goal in life is to give Catalina the life she deserves, even if it means being an "absent" husband. He's so caught up in his work that somehow it always ends up coming before his Catalina, which is very unfortunate.
After another lonely dinner, Catalina is ready to split, and I don't mean the check. She leaves with the help of her assistant, his husband, and checks in to a cozy little cottage, ready to spend the Christmas holiday grieving the marriage she longs for.
Will Elias be able to win her back? Will Catalina be able to recover from this heartbreak?
Frozen Promises, is the almost too relatable novella of what happens when two passionate lovers drift apart. Anastasia Deans's relatable characters and storytelling, allows the reader to truly feel the passion, emotion, and pain each character feels. I love that she adds aspects of her Latina background, such as Spanish words and character names, making it relatable to Latin readers.
This short romance will give you that comfy, Hallmark holiday movie feel with a little bit of that traditional Spanish novella spice and passion.
Latin & LGBTQ representation
First Generation representation
Plus-sized FMC
Second-Chances
Holiday Romance
*This novella contains themes of marriage separation and marital unhappiness. It also contains explicit sexual scenes.
Thank you for choosing me for this ARC, can't wait for Wicked Valentine!
Frozen Promises is book one of Anastasia Dean's, A Holiday Billionaire Romance duo.
Plus-size, Texas girl, Catalina Ayala, is a successful lifestyle vlogger, who shares her life with millions of followers. She lives a busy life filming content that is relatable to her followers, yet with a million pairs of eyes watching her everyday, there's only one person's attention she wants more than anything, her husband.
Elias Ayala, is a hardworking lawyer who comes from immigrant parents. His only goal in life is to give Catalina the life she deserves, even if it means being an "absent" husband. He's so caught up in his work that somehow it always ends up coming before his Catalina, which is very unfortunate.
After another lonely dinner, Catalina is ready to split, and I don't mean the check. She leaves with the help of her assistant, his husband, and checks in to a cozy little cottage, ready to spend the Christmas holiday grieving the marriage she longs for.
Will Elias be able to win her back? Will Catalina be able to recover from this heartbreak?
Frozen Promises, is the almost too relatable novella of what happens when two passionate lovers drift apart. Anastasia Deans's relatable characters and storytelling, allows the reader to truly feel the passion, emotion, and pain each character feels. I love that she adds aspects of her Latina background, such as Spanish words and character names, making it relatable to Latin readers.
This short romance will give you that comfy, Hallmark holiday movie feel with a little bit of that traditional Spanish novella spice and passion.
Latin & LGBTQ representation
First Generation representation
Plus-sized FMC
Second-Chances
Holiday Romance
*This novella contains themes of marriage separation and marital unhappiness. It also contains explicit sexual scenes.
Thank you for choosing me for this ARC, can't wait for Wicked Valentine!
October 6, 2025
ARC Review - Release date Oct 7
I think this is the first time I’ve read a romance like this, where the couple is already married, but facing a serious disconnect. Catalina and Elias have been together for years, but their marriage has hit a dry spell. She’s trying to hold things together, while he’s consumed by work and focused on building their future. Meanwhile, she’s quietly suffering in the present.
It’s sort of a second romance. Not with someone new, but with the person you once promised forever to. And that makes it all the more emotional.
Catalina’s best friend Santiago and his husband were such a strong, beautiful presence in the story, supportive, honest, and full of love. And César (Eli's friend)? He kept it real in the best way. Elias needed to hear every word.
This novella was such a powerful reminder that love in long-term relationships requires daily effort. Choosing each other, every day. Material success can’t replace emotional presence and being there for your partner is everything.
The Spanish nicknames added so much warmth and authenticity. Elias taking full accountability for his actions? That was such a strong moment, and so needed. However, he should have groveled more.
I loved Catalina’s dream of traveling and how that hope for something more was always part of her character.
I’m really looking forward to the next novella, this one was honest, emotional, and full of heart.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this. All opinions are my own.*
I think this is the first time I’ve read a romance like this, where the couple is already married, but facing a serious disconnect. Catalina and Elias have been together for years, but their marriage has hit a dry spell. She’s trying to hold things together, while he’s consumed by work and focused on building their future. Meanwhile, she’s quietly suffering in the present.
It’s sort of a second romance. Not with someone new, but with the person you once promised forever to. And that makes it all the more emotional.
Catalina’s best friend Santiago and his husband were such a strong, beautiful presence in the story, supportive, honest, and full of love. And César (Eli's friend)? He kept it real in the best way. Elias needed to hear every word.
This novella was such a powerful reminder that love in long-term relationships requires daily effort. Choosing each other, every day. Material success can’t replace emotional presence and being there for your partner is everything.
The Spanish nicknames added so much warmth and authenticity. Elias taking full accountability for his actions? That was such a strong moment, and so needed. However, he should have groveled more.
I loved Catalina’s dream of traveling and how that hope for something more was always part of her character.
I’m really looking forward to the next novella, this one was honest, emotional, and full of heart.
Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read this. All opinions are my own.*
October 7, 2025
Thank you so so much to the amazing author for sharing an ARC of this book with me !!!
“Her presence is agony - a sweet, addictive kind of torment I can’t get enough of”
“I’m coming for you, Catalina. And I’m not letting you slip away from me again”
I LOVED IT! I LOVED IT! I LOVED IT !!! It gave me all the perfecto cozy spicy vibes that a holiday romance should give with the addition that it was short and you get right into it and right out of it !!! It is sooo good !!!! And the great thing about this author is that she makes her romances so real. This is a story about two people who love each other desperately and deeply but their marriage is ok the brink of ruin. Why? Because he didn’t see the sign of neglect she was sending his way. Because things were going in a way neither of them wanted to begin with. But do you know why it’s a great romance? Because despite their faults and their issues, they worked it out. Because it makes you believe that love is possible. That mending your relationship is more than possible. If love is still there. And Elias … damn that man loves Catalina with every fibre of his being !!! And it shows !!! I loved it ! I loved it ! I loved it!!! I cannot stress it enough !!! You need to read it now !!!
“Your happiness is with me, cariño, and only ever with me”
“My wife is sin incarnate, and I’m all too eager to indulge in her pleasures”
“Her presence is agony - a sweet, addictive kind of torment I can’t get enough of”
“I’m coming for you, Catalina. And I’m not letting you slip away from me again”
I LOVED IT! I LOVED IT! I LOVED IT !!! It gave me all the perfecto cozy spicy vibes that a holiday romance should give with the addition that it was short and you get right into it and right out of it !!! It is sooo good !!!! And the great thing about this author is that she makes her romances so real. This is a story about two people who love each other desperately and deeply but their marriage is ok the brink of ruin. Why? Because he didn’t see the sign of neglect she was sending his way. Because things were going in a way neither of them wanted to begin with. But do you know why it’s a great romance? Because despite their faults and their issues, they worked it out. Because it makes you believe that love is possible. That mending your relationship is more than possible. If love is still there. And Elias … damn that man loves Catalina with every fibre of his being !!! And it shows !!! I loved it ! I loved it ! I loved it!!! I cannot stress it enough !!! You need to read it now !!!
“Your happiness is with me, cariño, and only ever with me”
“My wife is sin incarnate, and I’m all too eager to indulge in her pleasures”
October 2, 2025
Frozen Promises is a winter holiday novella with a billionaire romance. This is the first of what will be various holiday novellas set in the same world. I received an advance review copy and my thoughts are my own. Thank you to the author for my eArc.
Tropes and themes include:
✨ High school sweethearts
✨ Marriage on the rocks
✨ Workaholic MMC
✨ Influencer/vlogger FMC
✨ “Good girl”
✨ Plus-sized FMC
✨ LGBTQ+ representation (not MCs)
✨ Christmas in a winter cabin
✨ Different love languages
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
Nickname: Carino
The Lovely: I rarely read contemporary romance (unless it’s dark, why choose or mafia) but I know this author under her other pen name (Tati Alvarez) for the emotion she puts into her stories and characters. And this novella did not let me down. Catalina and Elias’ story is one of heartbreak and regret as they try to figure out how to fix their marriage… or if it can even be saved.
Recommendation: This is a quick, Christmas themed read to start getting you in the holiday mood. I previously alpha read this novella and there will be more holiday novellas coming soon in this collection. If you like an emotional but heartwarming quick holiday romance read, I think you would like this story.
Tropes and themes include:
✨ High school sweethearts
✨ Marriage on the rocks
✨ Workaholic MMC
✨ Influencer/vlogger FMC
✨ “Good girl”
✨ Plus-sized FMC
✨ LGBTQ+ representation (not MCs)
✨ Christmas in a winter cabin
✨ Different love languages
Rating: 4.5/5 Stars 2/5 Flames
Nickname: Carino
The Lovely: I rarely read contemporary romance (unless it’s dark, why choose or mafia) but I know this author under her other pen name (Tati Alvarez) for the emotion she puts into her stories and characters. And this novella did not let me down. Catalina and Elias’ story is one of heartbreak and regret as they try to figure out how to fix their marriage… or if it can even be saved.
Recommendation: This is a quick, Christmas themed read to start getting you in the holiday mood. I previously alpha read this novella and there will be more holiday novellas coming soon in this collection. If you like an emotional but heartwarming quick holiday romance read, I think you would like this story.
October 3, 2025
It's refreshing to read about what happens after an HEA.
Catalina and Elias are high school sweethearts whose marriage is in jeopardy. Elias is a workaholic who co-owns a legal firm. Catalina is a plus-size vlogger.
This novella meets them as Catalina is at an all time low and makes the decision to leave Elias and his quest to win her back.
Great supportive characters!
This is a quick read at just under 100 pages.
My only qualm with the story is that I want more. I want more of Catalina and Elias' story - more about what makes them both tick. Why he thought he had to work so hard to provide so much - why she didn't fight more for time with him before she left. I want to know more about her best friend and his love Noah, more about Ceser who I loved for his tough love.
Overall I recommend this as a quick read that helps remind you of the importance of standing up for what you need, having a support network of people who love you for who you are, and forgiveness.
Can't wait to read Wicked Valentine and see Cesar fall for someone.
Catalina and Elias are high school sweethearts whose marriage is in jeopardy. Elias is a workaholic who co-owns a legal firm. Catalina is a plus-size vlogger.
This novella meets them as Catalina is at an all time low and makes the decision to leave Elias and his quest to win her back.
Great supportive characters!
This is a quick read at just under 100 pages.
My only qualm with the story is that I want more. I want more of Catalina and Elias' story - more about what makes them both tick. Why he thought he had to work so hard to provide so much - why she didn't fight more for time with him before she left. I want to know more about her best friend and his love Noah, more about Ceser who I loved for his tough love.
Overall I recommend this as a quick read that helps remind you of the importance of standing up for what you need, having a support network of people who love you for who you are, and forgiveness.
Can't wait to read Wicked Valentine and see Cesar fall for someone.
October 14, 2025
Anastasia Dean always delivers with the best stories! If you’re craving a cozy, heart-squeezing romance with all the festive feels then Frozen Promises is your next must-read. I inhaled this book in one day. It’s warm, sweet, and just the right amount of steamy.
Catalina is the kind of heroine we need more of—confident, vulnerable, and unapologetically herself. Elias? Let’s just say he’s in his redemption era and I was living for every grovel, every tender moment, every “I messed up” line. Sir, get on your knees and beg properly!
The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional payoff? Worth every page. And the holiday setting? Pure magic. Twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and a love story that melts even the iciest hearts.
Perfect for fans of second chances, billionaire romance, and a man who will fight for love. Thank you so much Anastasia Dean for this fantastic ARC. I love your writing so much!
🎄Christmas Novella
🎄Second Chance Romance
🎄High School Sweethearts
🎄Plus Size FMC
🎄Billionaire Romance
"I'm here, cariño"
Catalina is the kind of heroine we need more of—confident, vulnerable, and unapologetically herself. Elias? Let’s just say he’s in his redemption era and I was living for every grovel, every tender moment, every “I messed up” line. Sir, get on your knees and beg properly!
The chemistry? Off the charts. The emotional payoff? Worth every page. And the holiday setting? Pure magic. Twinkling lights, cozy sweaters, and a love story that melts even the iciest hearts.
Perfect for fans of second chances, billionaire romance, and a man who will fight for love. Thank you so much Anastasia Dean for this fantastic ARC. I love your writing so much!
🎄Christmas Novella
🎄Second Chance Romance
🎄High School Sweethearts
🎄Plus Size FMC
🎄Billionaire Romance
"I'm here, cariño"
October 15, 2025
Fun, short, jolly and dirty.
I'm always down for a good Christmas novella and when I saw a plus size latina lead I knew this was very much for me, it was a super quick read too to start getting in the holliday (books) mood.
Also I love a man that can recognise he f'd up quick and fix it even quicker, specially one that is down bad for his wife.
~Blurb~
Catalina is a plus size influencer that has it all: the gorgeous house, the friends the internet fandom and the husband... but Elias (the husband) is never home because of his work, and she starts feeling alone in her big house, her internet fandom, and unloved by the one person she needs the most she has to take action, and that action spurs Elias to take their relationship as serious as he always should.
Tropes:
Plus Size FMC
Billionaire MMC
Christmas Novella
Latine MC's
Second Chance
Frozen Promises by Anastasia Dean is out now and available on KU
Thanks to Anastasia Dean and Flying Pig for sending this ARC in exchange for my honest review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I'm always down for a good Christmas novella and when I saw a plus size latina lead I knew this was very much for me, it was a super quick read too to start getting in the holliday (books) mood.
Also I love a man that can recognise he f'd up quick and fix it even quicker, specially one that is down bad for his wife.
~Blurb~
Catalina is a plus size influencer that has it all: the gorgeous house, the friends the internet fandom and the husband... but Elias (the husband) is never home because of his work, and she starts feeling alone in her big house, her internet fandom, and unloved by the one person she needs the most she has to take action, and that action spurs Elias to take their relationship as serious as he always should.
Tropes:
Plus Size FMC
Billionaire MMC
Christmas Novella
Latine MC's
Second Chance
Frozen Promises by Anastasia Dean is out now and available on KU
Thanks to Anastasia Dean and Flying Pig for sending this ARC in exchange for my honest review
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
October 29, 2025
Short, sassy and steamy romance
Catalina is losing her patience with her husband Elias. After ten years of marriage, he appears to be ignoring her. When she needs him to help with her vlog site, he forgets. When he says they are going out, his work gets in the way. Is he losing interest in Catalina? Is there someone else? After his last kerfuffle, she decides that she needs some time away from Elias. Elias who is a highly successful lawyer, is doing everything for them. Right? Can’t Catalina see that? What he does not understand is that Catalina wants Elias more than the things his success has given them. Can he win her back?
I loved this short but just-steamy-enough romance between a youngish married couple who struggled to get where they are. They fell in love in high school and married. It is remarkable where they find themselves today. If you like well-written romance with just the right amount of passion and steam, read this book. I have already ordered the next one! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
Catalina is losing her patience with her husband Elias. After ten years of marriage, he appears to be ignoring her. When she needs him to help with her vlog site, he forgets. When he says they are going out, his work gets in the way. Is he losing interest in Catalina? Is there someone else? After his last kerfuffle, she decides that she needs some time away from Elias. Elias who is a highly successful lawyer, is doing everything for them. Right? Can’t Catalina see that? What he does not understand is that Catalina wants Elias more than the things his success has given them. Can he win her back?
I loved this short but just-steamy-enough romance between a youngish married couple who struggled to get where they are. They fell in love in high school and married. It is remarkable where they find themselves today. If you like well-written romance with just the right amount of passion and steam, read this book. I have already ordered the next one! I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
October 6, 2025
Get ready to Grab your warm blanket and your cup of hot chocolate to read this cozy Christmas story! Don’t think because I said it’s cozy that it doesn’t deliver some spice! It’s in there I promise!
Catalina is a Mexican plus size female character who vlogs and just comes off as the sweetest and most understanding person!
Elias is a Mexican male character who is rich and works very hard so that Catalina could live the life he promised her.
Elias being a workaholic ends up putting a divide between him and Catalina causing Catalina to finally say enough and leave. Now Elias has to grovel to win her back.
When you follow along in this story you’ll get swept away by the characters reconnecting with each other and rebuilding of their relationship.
This was a quick warm feeling inside cozy read and I can definitely see myself enjoying this again during December to get in the Christmas spirit!
I only took off a half a star because the timeline was unclear for me.
4.5 ❄️
2 🌶️
Catalina is a Mexican plus size female character who vlogs and just comes off as the sweetest and most understanding person!
Elias is a Mexican male character who is rich and works very hard so that Catalina could live the life he promised her.
Elias being a workaholic ends up putting a divide between him and Catalina causing Catalina to finally say enough and leave. Now Elias has to grovel to win her back.
When you follow along in this story you’ll get swept away by the characters reconnecting with each other and rebuilding of their relationship.
This was a quick warm feeling inside cozy read and I can definitely see myself enjoying this again during December to get in the Christmas spirit!
I only took off a half a star because the timeline was unclear for me.
4.5 ❄️
2 🌶️
October 7, 2025
'Tis the season... for holiday reads! And I absolutely love a spicy holiday read. The holiday part just adds a little extra something to it, an extra dash of spice as it were.
Now as a novella, this is short (just under 90 pages) and full of sugar, spice, and everything nice. Well maybe not quite so nice as we meet Catalina, who is grappling with her marriage. Elias, her workaholic lawyer husband, keeps missing important moments for Catalina. Enough is finally enough and right before Christmas, Catalina makes her escape. Can the Christmas holiday Catalina so dearly loves help Elias win his wife back?
Pick it up and you'll find out! Spicy, emotional, and full of Christmas, this will get you in the holiday spirit!
❄️ Second Chance
❄️ Plus-size FMC
❄️ Mexican Rep
❄️ Holiday Spice
❄️ Billionaire Vibes
❄️ Marriage in Crisis
Thank you to the author and Flying Pig PR for the gifted copy!
Now as a novella, this is short (just under 90 pages) and full of sugar, spice, and everything nice. Well maybe not quite so nice as we meet Catalina, who is grappling with her marriage. Elias, her workaholic lawyer husband, keeps missing important moments for Catalina. Enough is finally enough and right before Christmas, Catalina makes her escape. Can the Christmas holiday Catalina so dearly loves help Elias win his wife back?
Pick it up and you'll find out! Spicy, emotional, and full of Christmas, this will get you in the holiday spirit!
❄️ Second Chance
❄️ Plus-size FMC
❄️ Mexican Rep
❄️ Holiday Spice
❄️ Billionaire Vibes
❄️ Marriage in Crisis
Thank you to the author and Flying Pig PR for the gifted copy!
October 10, 2025
I received this as an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I immensely enjoyed this book. It's one of those books you start but cannot put down until you finish.
You ever had the feeling of neglecting someone you loved so dearly and you only noticed how withdraw and small they felt around you? But you were too late. They're pulling away, they're rebuilding all those walls you tore down before right back up because you haven't watered that love enough.
Through Catalina and Elias, the author shows us how the little things in a relationship could be everything to your partner. No matter how trivial it may seem to you, it may not be as trivial to your partner.
The book is so well-written in all aspects it touched on. It had emotional nuance and rawness, angsty details that amplified the characters' pain, and a bit spice towards the end.
I immensely enjoyed this book. It's one of those books you start but cannot put down until you finish.
You ever had the feeling of neglecting someone you loved so dearly and you only noticed how withdraw and small they felt around you? But you were too late. They're pulling away, they're rebuilding all those walls you tore down before right back up because you haven't watered that love enough.
Through Catalina and Elias, the author shows us how the little things in a relationship could be everything to your partner. No matter how trivial it may seem to you, it may not be as trivial to your partner.
The book is so well-written in all aspects it touched on. It had emotional nuance and rawness, angsty details that amplified the characters' pain, and a bit spice towards the end.
October 30, 2025
This was a quick holiday read (under 100 pages)
What to expect:
❄️Holiday Novella
💔Marriage in Trouble
❄️Plus size/Influencer FMC
💔Mild-Groveling for Forgiveness
🔥Some spice
I enjoyed Catalina & Elias’ story of reconnecting and trying to fix their marriage. This book was quick, low tension, mid-spice. There could have been more of an effort on Elias’ part, rather than just over the top gifts, and I wish Catalina hadn’t been so quick to forgive. Elias comes off as very possessive (tracking her location).
We did get a glimpse in the epilogue of how much Elias had seemed to change, and I did enjoy that. I also enjoyed Catalina’s best friend Santiago & his hubby Noah.
Overall, for a quick holiday novella, I thought this was a good read.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Anastasia Dean, but opinions are mine!
What to expect:
❄️Holiday Novella
💔Marriage in Trouble
❄️Plus size/Influencer FMC
💔Mild-Groveling for Forgiveness
🔥Some spice
I enjoyed Catalina & Elias’ story of reconnecting and trying to fix their marriage. This book was quick, low tension, mid-spice. There could have been more of an effort on Elias’ part, rather than just over the top gifts, and I wish Catalina hadn’t been so quick to forgive. Elias comes off as very possessive (tracking her location).
We did get a glimpse in the epilogue of how much Elias had seemed to change, and I did enjoy that. I also enjoyed Catalina’s best friend Santiago & his hubby Noah.
Overall, for a quick holiday novella, I thought this was a good read.
**I received an advance copy of this book from Anastasia Dean, but opinions are mine!
October 6, 2025
Sweet, second-chance holiday romance!
This was such a cozy, quick read — under 100 pages, so I devoured it in one sitting. Catalina and Elias’s story was full of heart and holiday magic, with a perfect sprinkle of spice and redemption. It was fun diving into a holiday romance in October, kind of made me excited for December.
My only complaint? I wanted more! These characters could’ve easily carried another 200 pages because I still have questions and wanted to spend more time to understand them. Plus the little bit of spice we got and dirty mouth from Elias, i NEED more.
Thank you to Anastasia Dean for the eARC! Frozen Promises releases October 7, 2025, and if you love second chances, workaholic redemption arcs, and a cozy holiday setting — you’ll want this one on your TBR. 🎄💍❤️🔥
This was such a cozy, quick read — under 100 pages, so I devoured it in one sitting. Catalina and Elias’s story was full of heart and holiday magic, with a perfect sprinkle of spice and redemption. It was fun diving into a holiday romance in October, kind of made me excited for December.
My only complaint? I wanted more! These characters could’ve easily carried another 200 pages because I still have questions and wanted to spend more time to understand them. Plus the little bit of spice we got and dirty mouth from Elias, i NEED more.
Thank you to Anastasia Dean for the eARC! Frozen Promises releases October 7, 2025, and if you love second chances, workaholic redemption arcs, and a cozy holiday setting — you’ll want this one on your TBR. 🎄💍❤️🔥
October 12, 2025
I thought this was a really interesting twist on a second chance! As a reader, you could really feel the angst between the two characters. There was a lot of pain there but it was also very relatable and I believe that’s what brought out the emotion. I loved the determination of Catalina for putting herself and her needs first. That is not an easy thing to do, but she knew her worth and she needed to remind Elias of it! The way Elias was determined to get her back, ughhhhhh! SOO GOOD. Honestly my only complaint is that it wasn’t long enough because the way Anastasia writes is 5 STAR :)
Plus Size Rep
I did just want to add a quick note about the plus size rep in this book. I LOVED IT. The thing that really got me was that Catalina showed confidence but it was realistic. She had doubts and even spoke a bit about the impacts of blogging in a fatphobic world. I also appreciated that Elias acknowledged “conventional beauty standards” instead of dismissing what she may feel or experience simply because he finds her beautiful.
Plus Size Rep
I did just want to add a quick note about the plus size rep in this book. I LOVED IT. The thing that really got me was that Catalina showed confidence but it was realistic. She had doubts and even spoke a bit about the impacts of blogging in a fatphobic world. I also appreciated that Elias acknowledged “conventional beauty standards” instead of dismissing what she may feel or experience simply because he finds her beautiful.
December 11, 2025
I went into this one pretty much blind, I make sure to read new to me authors and this one sounded interesting. I'm not huge on second chance, but it can be a great trope so I gave it a chance. This one was definitely done differently.
It was a spin on the trope and had a fresh twist in my opinion. Yes, I got frustrated with the characters, but I think that just says how well written the characters were. No conflict? No story. As a novella I think it was well done and wrapped up great!
*Review given freely of my own volition. My opinion is not all that should be taken into account and readers should be aware that not all tastes are the same and my view may not be the norm. This statement made remains fact, regardless of how I obtained any copy.
It was a spin on the trope and had a fresh twist in my opinion. Yes, I got frustrated with the characters, but I think that just says how well written the characters were. No conflict? No story. As a novella I think it was well done and wrapped up great!
*Review given freely of my own volition. My opinion is not all that should be taken into account and readers should be aware that not all tastes are the same and my view may not be the norm. This statement made remains fact, regardless of how I obtained any copy.
October 10, 2025
Marriage-in-trouble can be a tricky trope in romance—you have to walk the line between giving readers a believable reason for the distance while still making them root for the couple to find their way back. Frozen Promises does that well, though I found myself wishing for a little more depth.
I never doubted that Catalina and Elias loved each other, but I wanted more background on what drove them apart. With the shorter length, you get just enough to understand the tension, but I couldn’t help wanting this as a full-length novel. I simply wanted more of these two.
This was my first Anastasia Dean book, and I’ll definitely be picking up more of her work. A solid 3⭐ read for me.
If you love childhood friends to lovers to married, marriage in trouble, second chances, and a bit of groveling, this novella is for you. Frozen Promises is out now — available in e-book and paperback. Thank you to Anastasia Dean for the ARC!
I never doubted that Catalina and Elias loved each other, but I wanted more background on what drove them apart. With the shorter length, you get just enough to understand the tension, but I couldn’t help wanting this as a full-length novel. I simply wanted more of these two.
This was my first Anastasia Dean book, and I’ll definitely be picking up more of her work. A solid 3⭐ read for me.
If you love childhood friends to lovers to married, marriage in trouble, second chances, and a bit of groveling, this novella is for you. Frozen Promises is out now — available in e-book and paperback. Thank you to Anastasia Dean for the ARC!
October 12, 2025
An emotional and fast holiday novella!!!
“There’s not been a day since you came into my life that I have not loved you. You stole my heart, and I’ve never asked for it back. It’s yours, cariño, always yours.”
UGGHH Latina rep in books will always get me. This novella was 90 pages and I thought it would be all spice but there was only a tad of spice at the end. Genuinely loved the quick story of these characters going through a rough patch in their marriage. I think if it would have been a full novel it would have been even better but still a good read if you want something fast and emotional and Christmasy.
“There’s not been a day since you came into my life that I have not loved you. You stole my heart, and I’ve never asked for it back. It’s yours, cariño, always yours.”
UGGHH Latina rep in books will always get me. This novella was 90 pages and I thought it would be all spice but there was only a tad of spice at the end. Genuinely loved the quick story of these characters going through a rough patch in their marriage. I think if it would have been a full novel it would have been even better but still a good read if you want something fast and emotional and Christmasy.
October 1, 2025
Frozen Promises is a quick, Christmas-themed read featuring second chance romance, a plus-sized influencer FMC, and a lawyer MMC.
I devoured this book in one sitting—it was such an enjoyable read! I especially loved Elias’s groveling (though in my opinion, he still could’ve done more 😅). Catalina and Elias’s love story was so beautiful that I honestly didn’t want it to end.
Do I recommend it? Hell yes! This was a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 star) read for me, and such a perfect way to start the month.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
I devoured this book in one sitting—it was such an enjoyable read! I especially loved Elias’s groveling (though in my opinion, he still could’ve done more 😅). Catalina and Elias’s love story was so beautiful that I honestly didn’t want it to end.
Do I recommend it? Hell yes! This was a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 (4.5 star) read for me, and such a perfect way to start the month.
Thank you to the author for this ARC.
October 1, 2025
The flame of Elias and Catalina’s marriage has fizzled out. Life has been lifeing. Elias has been so busy with work and trying to provide that he’s been neglecting the romance/spending time together part of his relationship. Now that Catalina has had enough, is it too late or can Elias fix it?
This was such a cute holiday novella!
It’s a good reminder to never stop dating your spouse and the importance of spending quality time together.
“Love doesn’t always leave in a big dramatic way. Sometimes it just…fades. Quietly.”
This was such a cute holiday novella!
It’s a good reminder to never stop dating your spouse and the importance of spending quality time together.
“Love doesn’t always leave in a big dramatic way. Sometimes it just…fades. Quietly.”
October 2, 2025
A novella that I wish was a full-length novel. Catalina's and Elias' story was heartbreaking when one person feels alone in their marriage and the other realizes too late where they went wrong. But when both people want the marriage to work, you can get your HEA. This story was well-written and had enough details to keep you interested and move the story along without feeling rushed. The story is less than 100 pages, but you can still feel all of the emotions from Catalina and Elias. The love, sadness, anger, regret, joy... All of it was packed into a few chapters.
October 7, 2025
⭐️ 3/5
🌶 2/5
This had so much potential, but it felt way too rushed. I really think it would've worked better as a full-length novel, there just wasn't enough time to develop the characters or their relationship.
Elias definitely should’ve groveled more after what he put Catalina through, and they jumped into the spice way too fast and without much real communication. If it had been longer and more developed, I think I would've enjoyed it a lot more.
~Received an ARC from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.~
🌶 2/5
This had so much potential, but it felt way too rushed. I really think it would've worked better as a full-length novel, there just wasn't enough time to develop the characters or their relationship.
Elias definitely should’ve groveled more after what he put Catalina through, and they jumped into the spice way too fast and without much real communication. If it had been longer and more developed, I think I would've enjoyed it a lot more.
~Received an ARC from the author, all thoughts and opinions are my own.~
October 10, 2025
ARC Review
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a sweet novella perfect for the Christmas season. This book highlighted that marriage isn't all candy canes and gumdrops but is something both parties did to actively work on. I love that it highlighted that reality, especially for a rom com book.
A fun, short and sweet read. Plus size female main with a billionaire daddy who loves on all her curves and works to provide for her. A best friend to support her through it all. As usual Anastasia dean ticked all my boxes.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
This is a sweet novella perfect for the Christmas season. This book highlighted that marriage isn't all candy canes and gumdrops but is something both parties did to actively work on. I love that it highlighted that reality, especially for a rom com book.
A fun, short and sweet read. Plus size female main with a billionaire daddy who loves on all her curves and works to provide for her. A best friend to support her through it all. As usual Anastasia dean ticked all my boxes.
October 11, 2025
Elias blows off his wife one too many times and she LEAVES. Can he win her back by Xmas?🎄
Although this is a short novella, it packed an emotional punch ❤️🩹 For the sake of avoiding a spoiler just know he FINALLY understands the toll his continued prioritizing of work has placed on his marriage. Catalina does not hold back 🥲 A HUGE thank you to @authoranastasiadean for the review copy 💛
Tropes:
Marriage in Trouble
Holiday Novela
Mexican Leads
Billionaire Lawyer MMC
Influencer FMC
Curvy FMC
Although this is a short novella, it packed an emotional punch ❤️🩹 For the sake of avoiding a spoiler just know he FINALLY understands the toll his continued prioritizing of work has placed on his marriage. Catalina does not hold back 🥲 A HUGE thank you to @authoranastasiadean for the review copy 💛
Tropes:
Marriage in Trouble
Holiday Novela
Mexican Leads
Billionaire Lawyer MMC
Influencer FMC
Curvy FMC
Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews