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Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance #3
Date Yourself a Grinch
He’s allergic to Christmas. I’m practically made of tinsel. What could go wrong?
I’m not saying Gage Lockett is the actual Grinch … but if someone in town woke up tomorrow to find all the candy canes missing, my money’s on him.
The man glares at twinkle lights like they personally insulted his mother.
So when he accidentally reads my Holiday Bucket List—complete with “Kiss under the mistletoe” and “Make snow angels”—I hatch a plan. I thought he’d toss it in the trash where joy goes to die. Surprisingly, he decides to tag along.
Now my friends and I are dragging Waterford’s grumpiest bachelor to every holly-jolly event from ugly-sweater tree lighting to the sleigh race, and I swear I catch him almost smiling once. I’m not saying drawing out another one of those smiles made it onto my holiday list—not officially, anyway.
When Gage volunteers for the town’s Secret Santa fundraiser, I start seeing the man beneath the scowl. Maybe the one thing missing from my holiday list is … him.
Date Yourself a Grinch is a cozy, closed-door, laugh-out-loud, small-town holiday romcom full of heart, humor, and just enough mistletoe to make even a Grinch believe in love. This story is a part of the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance holiday trilogy.
I’m not saying Gage Lockett is the actual Grinch … but if someone in town woke up tomorrow to find all the candy canes missing, my money’s on him.
The man glares at twinkle lights like they personally insulted his mother.
So when he accidentally reads my Holiday Bucket List—complete with “Kiss under the mistletoe” and “Make snow angels”—I hatch a plan. I thought he’d toss it in the trash where joy goes to die. Surprisingly, he decides to tag along.
Now my friends and I are dragging Waterford’s grumpiest bachelor to every holly-jolly event from ugly-sweater tree lighting to the sleigh race, and I swear I catch him almost smiling once. I’m not saying drawing out another one of those smiles made it onto my holiday list—not officially, anyway.
When Gage volunteers for the town’s Secret Santa fundraiser, I start seeing the man beneath the scowl. Maybe the one thing missing from my holiday list is … him.
Date Yourself a Grinch is a cozy, closed-door, laugh-out-loud, small-town holiday romcom full of heart, humor, and just enough mistletoe to make even a Grinch believe in love. This story is a part of the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance holiday trilogy.
144 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 11, 2025
94 people are currently reading
125 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 72 reviews
November 11, 2025
What a Grinch-tastic way to kick off the holiday book reading season!
We start with the best line ever…truly enjoying the holiday that gets overlooked the most…BLACK FRIDAY!
Tori’s instant sunshine made me smile, and I knew I was in for a good time.
Then enters Gage…and my grump loving self WAS SO EXCITED FOR THEIR STORY!!
Listen…the minute Gage saw Tori’s holiday bucket list I KNEW that boy was locked in. And then it only got cuter from there!
Their interactions were absolutely adorable! I loved how Gage opened up to Tori, and how Tori saw Gage even when he was trying to hide. They really just…worked!
There were so many relatable moments in this book, and just some down right cute ones — my kindle is testament to that (highlight city)!
But the scene introducing Toothpick was *chefs kiss*
I loved being back in Waterford with this friend group, and even seeing some brief mentions of the characters from the Firemen of Waterford series.
This was such a cutie little read! Pick it up this holiday season, you’re in for a treat! It quickly became my favorite of the series.
5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All options are my own*
We start with the best line ever…truly enjoying the holiday that gets overlooked the most…BLACK FRIDAY!
Tori’s instant sunshine made me smile, and I knew I was in for a good time.
Then enters Gage…and my grump loving self WAS SO EXCITED FOR THEIR STORY!!
Listen…the minute Gage saw Tori’s holiday bucket list I KNEW that boy was locked in. And then it only got cuter from there!
Their interactions were absolutely adorable! I loved how Gage opened up to Tori, and how Tori saw Gage even when he was trying to hide. They really just…worked!
There were so many relatable moments in this book, and just some down right cute ones — my kindle is testament to that (highlight city)!
But the scene introducing Toothpick was *chefs kiss*
I loved being back in Waterford with this friend group, and even seeing some brief mentions of the characters from the Firemen of Waterford series.
This was such a cutie little read! Pick it up this holiday season, you’re in for a treat! It quickly became my favorite of the series.
5/5 stars
*I received this book from the author**All options are my own*
November 20, 2025
Edited to add audiobook review.
I was able to listen to this audiobook today while working. It was excellent. I really love both of the narrators. It is dual narration, and I think that they really did a fabulous job with the characters. It made me really like the book more than when I read it on my own.
This is the 3rd book in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series. Each of these are kisses only contemporary romcom novellas. They each have a standalone story with some crossover characters.
This bite-sized sorry packed a big punch. I really liked how Gage had a reason behind his reserved nature. I'm not always a big grumpy/sunshine fan, especially when the author keeps telling you one is grumpy and one is sunshiny. But this one worked pretty well for me.
The novella is just long enough to give you a good story without taking up too much of the reader's time, especially during a busy time of year.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
I was able to listen to this audiobook today while working. It was excellent. I really love both of the narrators. It is dual narration, and I think that they really did a fabulous job with the characters. It made me really like the book more than when I read it on my own.
This is the 3rd book in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series. Each of these are kisses only contemporary romcom novellas. They each have a standalone story with some crossover characters.
This bite-sized sorry packed a big punch. I really liked how Gage had a reason behind his reserved nature. I'm not always a big grumpy/sunshine fan, especially when the author keeps telling you one is grumpy and one is sunshiny. But this one worked pretty well for me.
The novella is just long enough to give you a good story without taking up too much of the reader's time, especially during a busy time of year.
I was given the opportunity to read an advanced digital copy of this book. I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 13, 2025
This one was so fun! I really enjoyed Tori and Gage's story and reading via audiobook was perfect! The narrators were fantastic. The story already put me in the Christmas spirit but reading as an audiobook was a great choice!
Tori and Gage were great and I loved the grumpy/sunshine vibes and how she cracked open his stoic exterior. She could see through his grumpy facade. Tori's Christmas list provided the perfect Christmas vibes and really got me into the spirit. There were so many fun Christmas activities. I wish I lived in a small town with all these fun Christmas events!
I really enjoyed all the Grinch references and Toothpick! He was such a fun, furry friend! And gotta love the Waterford small town vibes and then meddling friend groups. They were great! I couldn't stop listening to this one because it just made me smile!
Tori and Gage were great and I loved the grumpy/sunshine vibes and how she cracked open his stoic exterior. She could see through his grumpy facade. Tori's Christmas list provided the perfect Christmas vibes and really got me into the spirit. There were so many fun Christmas activities. I wish I lived in a small town with all these fun Christmas events!
I really enjoyed all the Grinch references and Toothpick! He was such a fun, furry friend! And gotta love the Waterford small town vibes and then meddling friend groups. They were great! I couldn't stop listening to this one because it just made me smile!
November 13, 2025
Savannah Scott is the queen of novellas, and this was the perfect ending to her Christmas trilogy!
November 15, 2025
The newest edition to Savannah Scott’s holiday novellas 🎄 I had the amazing opportunity to listen to them 🎧 and THEY ARE SO SO GOOD! The narration was PERFECTION and truly brought the story to life 🌟 I look forward to these every holiday season! So let’s get into it 🥰
Tori. FMCs like her are always such bright characters 💛 Tori is full of goodness, love and compassion! Her love of the holiday season is CONTAGIOUS 🎄 and I’m thinking I need to write a list too 🤭
Gage. I LOVEEED Savannah Scott’s take on the Grinch 💚 much like his green counterpart, Gage has hurt by love 💔 lost in his mind, the charm of the holidays hasn’t hit this year. I LOVEDDDD watching his heart grow three sizes 💗
This was the cutest listen 🎧 I got so lost in the cute Christmas vibes and was so sad when it was over ❄️
Tori. FMCs like her are always such bright characters 💛 Tori is full of goodness, love and compassion! Her love of the holiday season is CONTAGIOUS 🎄 and I’m thinking I need to write a list too 🤭
Gage. I LOVEEED Savannah Scott’s take on the Grinch 💚 much like his green counterpart, Gage has hurt by love 💔 lost in his mind, the charm of the holidays hasn’t hit this year. I LOVEDDDD watching his heart grow three sizes 💗
This was the cutest listen 🎧 I got so lost in the cute Christmas vibes and was so sad when it was over ❄️
October 26, 2025
A sweet, swoony, holiday season treat! When sunshiney Tori starts to work to earn smiles from grumpy Gage, all bets are off. Meddling friends, small-town goodness, secret Santa, adopting a dog, a Christmas bucket list—what more could you want wrapped up in a delightful holiday novella?!
November 11, 2025
I adore Gage & Tori's grumpy , uncertain, hopeful, Sunshine-y, caring, loving , sweet n swoony happily ever after!!!
December 20, 2025
I’ve said it before and I’ll not quit saying it. I LOVE Christmas novellas!!!!!! They are perfect for this extra busy time of year. I just haven’t felt like I have hardly any extra time (I know we’re all in the same boat!) and these hit just right.
This series has been such a fun one. I look forward to getting a new one each year. And I love that it overlaps with our fun firefighters series!! I will always take more of characters I love, even in the side :)
This book has some misunderstood grump and a lovable sunshine. Their interactions are so dang fun, especially when they involve Toothpick (please read and find out!! It’s one of my fave parts of this story!!). There are secret Santa’s, small town Christmas traditions, best friends playing matchmaker, dual pov, healing broken hearts, Christmas bucket lists, and MISTLETOE KISSES!! Ok, right?! What more could you need?!
Hurry and grab yours, it is so quick you can squeeze it in after some wrapping and still have time:)
Thanks @savannahscott_author for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Book Review || Bookstagram || Novella || Christmas Romance Books || Savannah Scott || Closed Door Romance
This series has been such a fun one. I look forward to getting a new one each year. And I love that it overlaps with our fun firefighters series!! I will always take more of characters I love, even in the side :)
This book has some misunderstood grump and a lovable sunshine. Their interactions are so dang fun, especially when they involve Toothpick (please read and find out!! It’s one of my fave parts of this story!!). There are secret Santa’s, small town Christmas traditions, best friends playing matchmaker, dual pov, healing broken hearts, Christmas bucket lists, and MISTLETOE KISSES!! Ok, right?! What more could you need?!
Hurry and grab yours, it is so quick you can squeeze it in after some wrapping and still have time:)
Thanks @savannahscott_author for an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Book Review || Bookstagram || Novella || Christmas Romance Books || Savannah Scott || Closed Door Romance
October 27, 2025
This one hooked me right from the title... after all, who doesn't love the Grinch!? Tori and Gage had such a fun grumpy/sunshine dynamic. She's all about the holidays and even has a holiday bucket list... and he's... not. That doesn't stop her from bringing him along on some of her holiday adventures though! With a secret Santa and mistletoe kisses, there was so much holiday cheer to love in this story. And a cute dog in need of a home and all the Grinchy references make this one even more sweet too! If you're looking for a swoon worthy holiday romance (or three), this book and series are ones you'll want to add to your TBR this season!
Date Yourself a Grinch is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance trilogy, and while those who have read the previous books will enjoy catching up with some familiar characters, this could probably be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
Date Yourself a Grinch is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. It is part of the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance trilogy, and while those who have read the previous books will enjoy catching up with some familiar characters, this could probably be enjoyed as a standalone as well.
**ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own.
December 1, 2025
Gage and Tori.
This is a cute, sweet novella. I really like how Tori brings Gage out of his bad mood. I loved Toothpick and how he is included in the story.
This is a cute, sweet novella. I really like how Tori brings Gage out of his bad mood. I loved Toothpick and how he is included in the story.
November 30, 2025
Such a cute, festive addition to this holiday romance series 🎄💕
November 13, 2025
What do you get when you mix a guarded grump, a ray of sunshine, an endearing rescue dog, meddling friends, secret Santa and a holiday bucket list? Holiday romcom perfection!
I love how Tori sees beneath Gage’s gruff exterior. She loves a good challenge, so when she manages to coax a smile out of him, it becomes her mission to draw out even more. Gage’s feelings for Tori sneak up on him, but once he truly sees her, he can’t unsee her. The smallest things bring her joy, and that joy makes him want to do even more for her. They’re achingly sweet together—the perfect blend of playful fun and tender thoughtfulness. For such a short novella, it packs a big punch. It’s a quick, cozy read that leaves your heart full and your face hurting from smiling.
I absolutely adore the narrators for this series—they’re such a joy to listen to! They nail the chemistry, emotion, and humor, turning every scene into a festive delight. Their tone and delivery make every moment come alive, and their voices fit the characters so perfectly that I’ll hear them in my head whenever I read this series. Their voices are smooth, natural, and warm—the kind that wrap around you like a cozy hug. I’ll definitely be looking for more books they’ve narrated.
Favorites:
💚The relay race
💚The scavenger hunt
💚Secret Santa gifts
💚Toothpick
💚Liam’s heart to heart
💚Lunch at Judy’s
💚Hiking with Toothpick
💚Mitch’s meddling
💚Carson and Alyssa’s wedding
Quotes:
“Gage is different. He’s like the softest blanket, the strongest security door, and a beautiful box holding a present you can’t wait to unwrap. Ugh. I really like him.”
“Tori matters to me—getting this right with her matters to me—and not only because of our combined friend group and shared history in the same small town. It’s her. She’s like a hummingbird, beautiful and elusive. You don’t capture her, you share her space. And if she lingers in your garden, you cherish the moment like a rare gift.”
I love how Tori sees beneath Gage’s gruff exterior. She loves a good challenge, so when she manages to coax a smile out of him, it becomes her mission to draw out even more. Gage’s feelings for Tori sneak up on him, but once he truly sees her, he can’t unsee her. The smallest things bring her joy, and that joy makes him want to do even more for her. They’re achingly sweet together—the perfect blend of playful fun and tender thoughtfulness. For such a short novella, it packs a big punch. It’s a quick, cozy read that leaves your heart full and your face hurting from smiling.
I absolutely adore the narrators for this series—they’re such a joy to listen to! They nail the chemistry, emotion, and humor, turning every scene into a festive delight. Their tone and delivery make every moment come alive, and their voices fit the characters so perfectly that I’ll hear them in my head whenever I read this series. Their voices are smooth, natural, and warm—the kind that wrap around you like a cozy hug. I’ll definitely be looking for more books they’ve narrated.
Favorites:
💚The relay race
💚The scavenger hunt
💚Secret Santa gifts
💚Toothpick
💚Liam’s heart to heart
💚Lunch at Judy’s
💚Hiking with Toothpick
💚Mitch’s meddling
💚Carson and Alyssa’s wedding
Quotes:
“Gage is different. He’s like the softest blanket, the strongest security door, and a beautiful box holding a present you can’t wait to unwrap. Ugh. I really like him.”
“Tori matters to me—getting this right with her matters to me—and not only because of our combined friend group and shared history in the same small town. It’s her. She’s like a hummingbird, beautiful and elusive. You don’t capture her, you share her space. And if she lingers in your garden, you cherish the moment like a rare gift.”
November 11, 2025
OVERALL STAR RATING: 5/5
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
If you’re looking for a fun and sweet Christmas novella to fit into the busy hustle and bustle of the holiday season, THIS one is it! Ahhh…good old grumpy/sunshine. One of my absolute favorite tropes and this one is so well done. I love how well developed the characters and plot were for being a novella. Often with novellas I feel like I’m just not getting a complete enough story, but that is so not the case with this one. Gage and Tori are sure to capture your heart. And let me say, the small-town vibes are SO perfect in this story. If I could physically jump into the pages and transport myself to the town of Waterford, TN, I would. Christmastime in Waterford sounds like an absolute dream.
Tori can’t help her cheery disposition and she LOVES Christmas. Gage is more like the Grinch, at least this year he is due to unfortunate circumstances that happened months prior that have left him down in the dumps. Waterford, TN prides itself on holiday festivities, including a Secret Santa fundraiser. When Gage is forced by his friends to start joining in on the holiday magic, often alongside Tori, he starts opening up and turning his frown upside down. There’s a definite chemistry between Tori and Gage, that stems from a genuine and caring place. I loved watching their friendship grow.
This entire friend group is one of my absolute favorites. They are all so supportive, fun, funny and truly bring a lot of laughter and smiles to this fabulous trio of novellas in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
CLEAN RATING: 5/5
If you’re looking for a fun and sweet Christmas novella to fit into the busy hustle and bustle of the holiday season, THIS one is it! Ahhh…good old grumpy/sunshine. One of my absolute favorite tropes and this one is so well done. I love how well developed the characters and plot were for being a novella. Often with novellas I feel like I’m just not getting a complete enough story, but that is so not the case with this one. Gage and Tori are sure to capture your heart. And let me say, the small-town vibes are SO perfect in this story. If I could physically jump into the pages and transport myself to the town of Waterford, TN, I would. Christmastime in Waterford sounds like an absolute dream.
Tori can’t help her cheery disposition and she LOVES Christmas. Gage is more like the Grinch, at least this year he is due to unfortunate circumstances that happened months prior that have left him down in the dumps. Waterford, TN prides itself on holiday festivities, including a Secret Santa fundraiser. When Gage is forced by his friends to start joining in on the holiday magic, often alongside Tori, he starts opening up and turning his frown upside down. There’s a definite chemistry between Tori and Gage, that stems from a genuine and caring place. I loved watching their friendship grow.
This entire friend group is one of my absolute favorites. They are all so supportive, fun, funny and truly bring a lot of laughter and smiles to this fabulous trio of novellas in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
For more reviews and bookish content, be sure to follow me on Instagram @aliciasbooksanctuary
November 13, 2025
I love Christmas novellas. I also love Savannah Scott books. So, when you combine the two, you know I will be reading it. Date Yourself a Grinch is the third book in Savannah Scott’s Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series. I have read and loved the first too novellas and I loved this one just as much.
The story focuses on Gage and Tori, who have become casual friends as their closest friends met and fell in love. Gage was a grump, who became even grumpier after a bad breakup. He was not excited for Christmas. Tori was Gage’s complete opposite, full of Christmas spirit from her head to her toes. As Tori and Gage are thrown into each other’s company at all their friends’ holiday events, they both start to question how they feel about the other.
Gage was a perfect grump with a cinnamon roll center! I loved his character arc, especially how he thaws every time he interacts with Tori. He was such a good guy too, which I loved. It was so fun to see him fall and come out of his shell. I also loved seeing his relationships with the other guys.
Tori was fabulous! I loved how she embraced her love of Christmas and her own wants and needs. She was so strong and comfortable in her own skin. I also loved how Tori saw beneath Gage’s grumpy exterior.
Things to love:
-Christmas novella
-grumpy-sunshine
-friends to more
-holiday bucket list
-strong, supportive friend groups
-holiday vibes
-Secret Santa gifts
-fabulous banter and swoony chemistry
I adored this sweet novella. I will be reading it again in December. It is the perfect read for the season.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
The story focuses on Gage and Tori, who have become casual friends as their closest friends met and fell in love. Gage was a grump, who became even grumpier after a bad breakup. He was not excited for Christmas. Tori was Gage’s complete opposite, full of Christmas spirit from her head to her toes. As Tori and Gage are thrown into each other’s company at all their friends’ holiday events, they both start to question how they feel about the other.
Gage was a perfect grump with a cinnamon roll center! I loved his character arc, especially how he thaws every time he interacts with Tori. He was such a good guy too, which I loved. It was so fun to see him fall and come out of his shell. I also loved seeing his relationships with the other guys.
Tori was fabulous! I loved how she embraced her love of Christmas and her own wants and needs. She was so strong and comfortable in her own skin. I also loved how Tori saw beneath Gage’s grumpy exterior.
Things to love:
-Christmas novella
-grumpy-sunshine
-friends to more
-holiday bucket list
-strong, supportive friend groups
-holiday vibes
-Secret Santa gifts
-fabulous banter and swoony chemistry
I adored this sweet novella. I will be reading it again in December. It is the perfect read for the season.
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy. All opinions expressed are my own.
November 26, 2025
Gage is a Grinch and Tori is a ray of sunshine who loves Christmas. They keep getting "forced" together into their town's games and their friends'wedding activities.
I love how Tori slowly melted Gage's heart after his heartbreak. When he first smiles and shows his dimples, I knew she was a goner. I love that he adopted the previous dog, Toothpick and how totally enamored he is with the little guy. The first kiss in the snow (at least as much as Tennessee can get) was a long time coming.
I love how Tori slowly melted Gage's heart after his heartbreak. When he first smiles and shows his dimples, I knew she was a goner. I love that he adopted the previous dog, Toothpick and how totally enamored he is with the little guy. The first kiss in the snow (at least as much as Tennessee can get) was a long time coming.
November 27, 2025
Very cute holiday story
I thought it was a cute and fun holiday story. Toothpick was a bonus! It's nice that they enjoyed doing the activities together and her cheerfulness made a difference in him! The scrooge socks was a good bonus!
I thought it was a cute and fun holiday story. Toothpick was a bonus! It's nice that they enjoyed doing the activities together and her cheerfulness made a difference in him! The scrooge socks was a good bonus!
November 15, 2025
“Sometimes we don’t get what we expect in life.”
This Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series has another installment. They are perfect bite-sized Christmas romances that will warm every heart–and especially this one. No grinch could possibly be immune to the heart, wit, and holiday events that are present in this one.
Gage and Tori belong to a tight-knit friend group and her holly jolly sparkle is no match for his glum grinchy persona. Tori has a heart of gold, with a sweetness and goodness that rivals any Christmas treat. Gage is jaded, but his heart thaws and grows three sizes through this holiday season.
Every Christmas activity put a smile on my face and made me wonder what I can do to make my season more magical. Every interaction gradually piled another present of hope and swoon onto the sleigh. Each twinkling spark steadily created something that made me anticipate a spontaneous combustion.
I loved the friends; I loved Toothpick (the dog); I loved the charm and glow. And I especially loved Gage and Tori.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
This Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series has another installment. They are perfect bite-sized Christmas romances that will warm every heart–and especially this one. No grinch could possibly be immune to the heart, wit, and holiday events that are present in this one.
Gage and Tori belong to a tight-knit friend group and her holly jolly sparkle is no match for his glum grinchy persona. Tori has a heart of gold, with a sweetness and goodness that rivals any Christmas treat. Gage is jaded, but his heart thaws and grows three sizes through this holiday season.
Every Christmas activity put a smile on my face and made me wonder what I can do to make my season more magical. Every interaction gradually piled another present of hope and swoon onto the sleigh. Each twinkling spark steadily created something that made me anticipate a spontaneous combustion.
I loved the friends; I loved Toothpick (the dog); I loved the charm and glow. And I especially loved Gage and Tori.
Content: mild romance
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
November 18, 2025
The Brief: Tori loves everything about Christmas. When she participates in the town’s Secret Santa, she keeps getting stuck with her friend group’s grinch. Bah humbug.
The Debrief: I’ll be stuck with Grumpy Gage any time. National Man Watcher’s Day or not. 😂 This novella length twist on a Christmas classic is light and heartfelt making me want to up and move to Waterford before Christmas. This author always brings that charmAll the feels. All the fun.
🎄Gage and the Christmas list
🎄Toothpick
🎄healing and hope
🎄the mistletoe kiss
🎄the town Christmas activities
🎄friends who don’t let friends stay single
The Rhyme: Tori is determined to help Gage have some Christmas fun. Can she soften his heart and get a chance at love before Secret Santa is done?
Part of a Merry Little Romance Holiday trilogy, but can be easily enjoyed alone. Kissing only.
The Debrief: I’ll be stuck with Grumpy Gage any time. National Man Watcher’s Day or not. 😂 This novella length twist on a Christmas classic is light and heartfelt making me want to up and move to Waterford before Christmas. This author always brings that charmAll the feels. All the fun.
🎄Gage and the Christmas list
🎄Toothpick
🎄healing and hope
🎄the mistletoe kiss
🎄the town Christmas activities
🎄friends who don’t let friends stay single
The Rhyme: Tori is determined to help Gage have some Christmas fun. Can she soften his heart and get a chance at love before Secret Santa is done?
Part of a Merry Little Romance Holiday trilogy, but can be easily enjoyed alone. Kissing only.
November 24, 2025
Amazing
So much fun with the events of the town and everything. I love the humor of the story as these two characters get to know each other better and come together
So much fun with the events of the town and everything. I love the humor of the story as these two characters get to know each other better and come together
November 24, 2025
Loved this super cute novella!!!! I’ve loved this whole series!! Super cute!!!
November 24, 2025
An adorable couple having lots of fun
November 19, 2025
✨Audio Review✨
Date Yourself A Grinch by @savannahscott_author
Have Yourself A Merry Little Romance, book 3
Narrated by: Ali Dane and Chris Brinkley (again. I loved this duo! They both did amazing)
I’m telling you, we needed to soften up this grinch. Poor guy! He had reason and I loved his warm nature. Gage is the best grumpy grinch. But his new sidekick toothpick levels up the Adorableness factor.
Tori. She loves this holiday and her goodness brings out Gage’s soft side. She is so understanding and kind! Love her enthusiasm for Christmas!!
When you don’t want a novella to end, though it feels complete and well rounded you know it’s good!!!
LOVED
Secret Santa
Ugly Sweater
Christmas wish list
The Hike
Dual POV
Grumpy/Sunshine
The BEST friend groups.
Loved revisiting this small town of Waterford! And absolutely delighted with this novella! This series is one you do not want to miss! Anything by Savannah will bring you joy!
Date Yourself A Grinch by @savannahscott_author
Have Yourself A Merry Little Romance, book 3
Narrated by: Ali Dane and Chris Brinkley (again. I loved this duo! They both did amazing)
I’m telling you, we needed to soften up this grinch. Poor guy! He had reason and I loved his warm nature. Gage is the best grumpy grinch. But his new sidekick toothpick levels up the Adorableness factor.
Tori. She loves this holiday and her goodness brings out Gage’s soft side. She is so understanding and kind! Love her enthusiasm for Christmas!!
When you don’t want a novella to end, though it feels complete and well rounded you know it’s good!!!
LOVED
Secret Santa
Ugly Sweater
Christmas wish list
The Hike
Dual POV
Grumpy/Sunshine
The BEST friend groups.
Loved revisiting this small town of Waterford! And absolutely delighted with this novella! This series is one you do not want to miss! Anything by Savannah will bring you joy!
November 18, 2025
grumpy sunshine
small town holiday romance
Christmas bucket list
closed door romance
This story is adorable in all the best holiday ways, filled with small town charm and plenty of festive sparkle. Tori’s Christmas bucket list and Gage’s grinchy attitude created so many sweet smile-worthy moments. Their connection grows in a cozy gentle way that feels perfect for a winter night with a blanket and cocoa. It is a lighthearted holiday read that brings warmth, laughter, and seasonal joy.
Content Warnings:
-kisses only
-no language
*Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
small town holiday romance
Christmas bucket list
closed door romance
This story is adorable in all the best holiday ways, filled with small town charm and plenty of festive sparkle. Tori’s Christmas bucket list and Gage’s grinchy attitude created so many sweet smile-worthy moments. Their connection grows in a cozy gentle way that feels perfect for a winter night with a blanket and cocoa. It is a lighthearted holiday read that brings warmth, laughter, and seasonal joy.
Content Warnings:
-kisses only
-no language
*Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. All thoughts are my own.
November 12, 2025
Oh my tinsel! This is the most adorably cozy read!
Gage and Tori are the perfect grumpy sunshine pairing, and I loved them together so very much!
This story is so much fun to read, and it has phenomenal depth and character growth!
The two previous novellas in this series have both been an 11 on the cuteness scale, and Date Yourself a Grinch is no exception!
If you want a story with Hallmark vibes but a gazillion times BETTER then you MUST read this book, in fact read the whole Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series if you haven’t already, they are the perfect Christmas reads!
This book made me so happy! I seriously LOVED absolutely everything about this novella and most highly recommend it!
Oh, and the audiobook narration is fantastic!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
Gage and Tori are the perfect grumpy sunshine pairing, and I loved them together so very much!
This story is so much fun to read, and it has phenomenal depth and character growth!
The two previous novellas in this series have both been an 11 on the cuteness scale, and Date Yourself a Grinch is no exception!
If you want a story with Hallmark vibes but a gazillion times BETTER then you MUST read this book, in fact read the whole Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series if you haven’t already, they are the perfect Christmas reads!
This book made me so happy! I seriously LOVED absolutely everything about this novella and most highly recommend it!
Oh, and the audiobook narration is fantastic!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author!
My review was not influenced in any way. All thoughts and opinions are one hundred percent my own
November 19, 2025
so sweet, exactly what you expect
This is Such a cozy, quick Christmas read full of Christmas traditions and falling in love! I so Enjoyed this series!
This is Such a cozy, quick Christmas read full of Christmas traditions and falling in love! I so Enjoyed this series!
November 11, 2025
“Love can be the softest warmth. Yet strong enough to thaw a heart.”
Happy release day to Date Yourself a Grinch by @savannahscott_author ❤️
I was so excited for this novella because How the Grinch Stole Christmas is my absolute favorite Christmas movie! Tori and Gage had to cutest grumpy vs. sunshine dynamic. She is the Christmas queen, and he’s a stone-faced grinch. I loved watching a holiday-hating Grinch get unraveled by warmth, wit, and just the right amount of Christmas cheer. The chemistry was cozy without being rushed, the banter hit all the right places, and the festive atmosphere had me grinning and giggling the whole time! If you’re looking for the perfect holiday novella to sip hot cocoa with and read in one afternoon, look no further! ❤️🎄
What I loved:
🎄 Grumpy x Sunshine
⏱ Short + sweet novella length
🏘 Small-town coziness
💗 Clean romance with swoony vibes
😂 Laugh-out-loud dialogue
*I received a free ARC from the author. All opinions are my own*
Happy release day to Date Yourself a Grinch by @savannahscott_author ❤️
I was so excited for this novella because How the Grinch Stole Christmas is my absolute favorite Christmas movie! Tori and Gage had to cutest grumpy vs. sunshine dynamic. She is the Christmas queen, and he’s a stone-faced grinch. I loved watching a holiday-hating Grinch get unraveled by warmth, wit, and just the right amount of Christmas cheer. The chemistry was cozy without being rushed, the banter hit all the right places, and the festive atmosphere had me grinning and giggling the whole time! If you’re looking for the perfect holiday novella to sip hot cocoa with and read in one afternoon, look no further! ❤️🎄
What I loved:
🎄 Grumpy x Sunshine
⏱ Short + sweet novella length
🏘 Small-town coziness
💗 Clean romance with swoony vibes
😂 Laugh-out-loud dialogue
*I received a free ARC from the author. All opinions are my own*
November 9, 2025
This was such an adorable story! I loved the dual narration and the way the audio brought these characters to life.
Gage had a reason to be grumpy. But even though he was grumpy, it was clear that he was still a kind person by the way he treated his friends and through other little glimpses that the author gave throughout the story.
Tori was also a great character and I liked that she was able to see past Gage’s grumpiness the more she spent time with him.
These two characters truly had such good hearts! I loved seeing the ways they tried to make Christmas special for each other. Their romance was so sweet!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
Gage had a reason to be grumpy. But even though he was grumpy, it was clear that he was still a kind person by the way he treated his friends and through other little glimpses that the author gave throughout the story.
Tori was also a great character and I liked that she was able to see past Gage’s grumpiness the more she spent time with him.
These two characters truly had such good hearts! I loved seeing the ways they tried to make Christmas special for each other. Their romance was so sweet!
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...
November 12, 2025
I came to this story for a dose of Christmas cheer and swoony moments. I got both in abundance. I love when audiobook narrators just carry me through the story and don’t pull me out of it. Both of these were excellent at disappearing into the characters. Love that! I love all three of the novellas in this series.
I, like Gage, am a melancholy person who is also an extroverted introvert. I’m not exuberant for long periods of time, and people often ask me what’s the matter. Identified with his character so so much!
I, like Gage, am a melancholy person who is also an extroverted introvert. I’m not exuberant for long periods of time, and people often ask me what’s the matter. Identified with his character so so much!
November 11, 2025
Favorite parts:
- Trivia night
- Christmas Race
- At the animal shelter
- Visiting toothpick
- Favors and cake
- Hiking
- Alyssa and Carson's wedding
This was such a cute and fun Christmas novella! I really enjoyed being back in the town of Waterford, Tennessee. I love the town traditions - especially the town secret Santa.
The grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Gage and Tori was just the best. I love how Tori brought out a softer side to Gage. They balance each other out very well.
This is the third novella in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series. It can be read as a stand-alone.
Thanks to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
- Trivia night
- Christmas Race
- At the animal shelter
- Visiting toothpick
- Favors and cake
- Hiking
- Alyssa and Carson's wedding
This was such a cute and fun Christmas novella! I really enjoyed being back in the town of Waterford, Tennessee. I love the town traditions - especially the town secret Santa.
The grumpy-sunshine dynamic between Gage and Tori was just the best. I love how Tori brought out a softer side to Gage. They balance each other out very well.
This is the third novella in the Have Yourself a Merry Little Romance series. It can be read as a stand-alone.
Thanks to the author for the advanced copy. All opinions are my own.
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