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Hostile for the Holidays
Is there anything worse than getting sick on the four-hour flight home for the holidays?
How about the fact that my childhood rival, Jasper Jensen, is there to not only witness it, but to take care of me so he can hang it over my head for all of eternity?
Or maybe when an old fling is waiting to pick me up at the airport, hoping to rekindle our past over the holidays, and I’m so desperate to avoid him that I present Jasper as my boyfriend.
Jasper agrees to play the part if, in return, I attend his family’s famous Christmas Eve party to keep his meddling family from setting him up. It’s a small price to pay for my holiday peace.
But nothing is peaceful about the holidays this year. My sister’s getting married on New Years’ Eve and wedding planning is taking over Christmas. My family has no time for our holiday traditions; we don’t even have a Christmas tree.
Until Jasper swoops in.
Between helping me decorate for Christmas, taking me to look at light displays, and wrapping presents for underprivileged kids, Jasper shows me a side of him I’ve never known.
I’ve vowed to keep the hostility between us—my heart is safer that way—but that might be one tradition that I can’t hold onto this Christmas.
Hostile for the Holidays is a ~50K word stand-alone holiday novella featuring childhood rivals to lovers, fake dating, and secret pining (him), and contains mature content meant for 18+ only.
How about the fact that my childhood rival, Jasper Jensen, is there to not only witness it, but to take care of me so he can hang it over my head for all of eternity?
Or maybe when an old fling is waiting to pick me up at the airport, hoping to rekindle our past over the holidays, and I’m so desperate to avoid him that I present Jasper as my boyfriend.
Jasper agrees to play the part if, in return, I attend his family’s famous Christmas Eve party to keep his meddling family from setting him up. It’s a small price to pay for my holiday peace.
But nothing is peaceful about the holidays this year. My sister’s getting married on New Years’ Eve and wedding planning is taking over Christmas. My family has no time for our holiday traditions; we don’t even have a Christmas tree.
Until Jasper swoops in.
Between helping me decorate for Christmas, taking me to look at light displays, and wrapping presents for underprivileged kids, Jasper shows me a side of him I’ve never known.
I’ve vowed to keep the hostility between us—my heart is safer that way—but that might be one tradition that I can’t hold onto this Christmas.
Hostile for the Holidays is a ~50K word stand-alone holiday novella featuring childhood rivals to lovers, fake dating, and secret pining (him), and contains mature content meant for 18+ only.
6 pages, Audible Audio
Published October 14, 2025
272 people are currently reading
2440 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 807 reviews
November 27, 2024
3.75 stars
this novella was such an addicting and fast-paced read. I absolutely adored the verbal jousts and rivalry between the main characters and how it morphed from their harmless masquerade of being together to an agonizing push-and-pull dynamic. the steam-filled scenes were a perfect example of their palpable tension. Hostile for the Holidays is the perfect read if you are looking for a book that deliciously blends :
many thanks to Pen Pal PR and the author for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
”you make the holidays feel like something worth celebrating.”
this novella was such an addicting and fast-paced read. I absolutely adored the verbal jousts and rivalry between the main characters and how it morphed from their harmless masquerade of being together to an agonizing push-and-pull dynamic. the steam-filled scenes were a perfect example of their palpable tension. Hostile for the Holidays is the perfect read if you are looking for a book that deliciously blends :
🎄 fake dating
🎄 childhood rivals
🎄 christmas novella
🎄 he falls first and hard
🎄 first kiss under the mistletoe
many thanks to Pen Pal PR and the author for providing an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
December 14, 2024
What Worked
🦗🦗🦗
What Did Not Work
🙄 Christmas played 5th fiddle to wet underwear sex.
🙄 Up close and personal pussy stimulation from MMC’s pov.
🙄 Beyond unbelievable 3rd act breakup.
🙄 Cutesy character names.
🙄 Author didn’t know Engravement wasn’t a word. Hint: Spellcheck. Hint: ENGRAVING.
🦗🦗🦗
What Did Not Work
🙄 Christmas played 5th fiddle to wet underwear sex.
🙄 Up close and personal pussy stimulation from MMC’s pov.
🙄 Beyond unbelievable 3rd act breakup.
🙄 Cutesy character names.
🙄 Author didn’t know Engravement wasn’t a word. Hint: Spellcheck. Hint: ENGRAVING.
December 11, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
Thanks to seeing this on Dawn's feed, I had to give it a go! Buket also gave it the stamp of approval.
This book has two of my favorite micro tropes - man pining and rivals to lovers, all set with the backdrop of the holidays. Jasper (H) and Stella (h) have known each other since they were kids in their small town. They fiercely competed against each other for most of their school years, though Stella has no clue that Jasper actually had feelings for her and egged her on because that was the only way that they truly interacted. Yes, he was a hurtful idiot at times but she wasn’t an angel either. Except for years now, he’s wanted to move them away from the fighting and into something more. Stella, though, falls right back into old roles and habits any time she sees him. This holiday, Jasper’s trying to show Stella a different side of him and is helped along by a fake dating scheme of Stella’s invention.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, tiny om drama in the form of a prior hookup of h’s being in town for her sister’s wedding which leads to the fake dating and a small source of jealousy for H. Both are experienced but h has had a string of first dates recently and H tried to move on from his unrequited crush but nothing was ever serious and no indication he was a manwhore with it so it didn’t bother me.
I liked Jasper a lot, but Stella clinging so hard to their usual dynamic (with the reader knowing that Jasper felt differently) got to be frustrating. Both are highly successful in their fields as adults and Stella sometimes sinks into a touch of immaturity because of her competitiveness with Jasper. Their physical chemistry is what seems to be the tipping point for her truly acknowledging how he’s different and that their dynamic could be as well. The spicy scenes are well-written and there are a few even with the shorter story.
Loved all the holiday touches and especially how Jasper was trying to make Stella’s holiday so special. She loves the season but her family’s focus was more on her sister’s wedding and Jasper showed up. There’s tree cutting down and decorating, holiday wrapping, holiday games, etc. I liked their families and yay for positive parent representation because both sets of parents were sweet!
The third act conflict was a little rough and emotional esp as Stella had finally lowered her walls. The self-reflection that follows though was solid and the make-up was great. The epilogue is a year later of them back in their small town for the holidays and a final dollop of holidays and cuteness.
Thanks to seeing this on Dawn's feed, I had to give it a go! Buket also gave it the stamp of approval.
This book has two of my favorite micro tropes - man pining and rivals to lovers, all set with the backdrop of the holidays. Jasper (H) and Stella (h) have known each other since they were kids in their small town. They fiercely competed against each other for most of their school years, though Stella has no clue that Jasper actually had feelings for her and egged her on because that was the only way that they truly interacted. Yes, he was a hurtful idiot at times but she wasn’t an angel either. Except for years now, he’s wanted to move them away from the fighting and into something more. Stella, though, falls right back into old roles and habits any time she sees him. This holiday, Jasper’s trying to show Stella a different side of him and is helped along by a fake dating scheme of Stella’s invention.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow drama, tiny om drama in the form of a prior hookup of h’s being in town for her sister’s wedding which leads to the fake dating and a small source of jealousy for H. Both are experienced but h has had a string of first dates recently and H tried to move on from his unrequited crush but nothing was ever serious and no indication he was a manwhore with it so it didn’t bother me.
I liked Jasper a lot, but Stella clinging so hard to their usual dynamic (with the reader knowing that Jasper felt differently) got to be frustrating. Both are highly successful in their fields as adults and Stella sometimes sinks into a touch of immaturity because of her competitiveness with Jasper. Their physical chemistry is what seems to be the tipping point for her truly acknowledging how he’s different and that their dynamic could be as well. The spicy scenes are well-written and there are a few even with the shorter story.
Loved all the holiday touches and especially how Jasper was trying to make Stella’s holiday so special. She loves the season but her family’s focus was more on her sister’s wedding and Jasper showed up. There’s tree cutting down and decorating, holiday wrapping, holiday games, etc. I liked their families and yay for positive parent representation because both sets of parents were sweet!
The third act conflict was a little rough and emotional esp as Stella had finally lowered her walls. The self-reflection that follows though was solid and the make-up was great. The epilogue is a year later of them back in their small town for the holidays and a final dollop of holidays and cuteness.
January 6, 2026
This book had all the ingredients for a holiday hit—and somehow still left me cold ❄️
☃️ The Premise
Getting sick on a holiday flight is bad enough. Doing it in front of your childhood rival? Even worse.
When Stella unexpectedly runs into Jasper Jensen while traveling home for Christmas, the last thing she expects is for him to take care of her—or agree to be her fake boyfriend when an old fling appears at the airport. What starts as a harmless lie quickly snowballs into a full holiday charade.
What she doesn’t realize? Jasper has been in love with her for years, and this fake relationship might be his only shot at turning their rivalry into something real.
🎄 My Thoughts
Let’s start with the highlight: Jasper
A golden retriever MMC, tech billionaire, and hopelessly down bad for Stella since childhood, Jasper was easily the heart of this story. His devotion comes through in everything he does. As Stella’s family becomes wrapped up in her sister’s wedding and Christmas traditions quietly fall away, Jasper steps in to bring the magic back—recreating the holiday moments she’s been missing one small gesture at a time. One tree. One ornament. One game.
And then there’s Stella
I really tried with her… but she was a lot.
She clings hard to their childhood rivalry, and her constant suspicion that Jasper is secretly trying to embarrass or outdo her became exhausting—especially considering they’re both successful adults in their late twenties. The defensiveness, immaturity, and refusal to let the fake dating be even remotely smooth made it difficult for me to connect with her.
The third-act breakup didn’t help. It felt rushed, unnecessary, and added nothing but frustration.
🎧 Audiobook
This was a duet narration (always a win), performed by Connor Crais and M.K. Blackwood.
Connor Crais absolutely nailed Jasper’s quiet devotion—no surprise there; he can do no wrong. This was my first time listening to M.K. Blackwood, and she did a great job as well.
🎲 Final Take
This wasn’t a bad book—I just didn’t fully connect with it.
I loved Jasper and how hard he fell, and I genuinely enjoyed the cozy holiday moments. Unfortunately, Stella’s immaturity and the unnecessary third-act conflict kept this from fully working for me.
Tropes / What to Expect
🎄 Holiday novella
💰 Billionaire MMC
🎥 Fake dating
⚔️ Childhood rivals to lovers
💘 He falls first
🤫 Secret pining
🏞️ Small town
For the Holidays Series
1. Hostile for the Holidays — 3⭐️
2. Booked for the Holidays — 2.5 ⭐️ My review
☃️ The Premise
Getting sick on a holiday flight is bad enough. Doing it in front of your childhood rival? Even worse.
When Stella unexpectedly runs into Jasper Jensen while traveling home for Christmas, the last thing she expects is for him to take care of her—or agree to be her fake boyfriend when an old fling appears at the airport. What starts as a harmless lie quickly snowballs into a full holiday charade.
What she doesn’t realize? Jasper has been in love with her for years, and this fake relationship might be his only shot at turning their rivalry into something real.
🎄 My Thoughts
Let’s start with the highlight: Jasper
A golden retriever MMC, tech billionaire, and hopelessly down bad for Stella since childhood, Jasper was easily the heart of this story. His devotion comes through in everything he does. As Stella’s family becomes wrapped up in her sister’s wedding and Christmas traditions quietly fall away, Jasper steps in to bring the magic back—recreating the holiday moments she’s been missing one small gesture at a time. One tree. One ornament. One game.
And then there’s Stella
I really tried with her… but she was a lot.
She clings hard to their childhood rivalry, and her constant suspicion that Jasper is secretly trying to embarrass or outdo her became exhausting—especially considering they’re both successful adults in their late twenties. The defensiveness, immaturity, and refusal to let the fake dating be even remotely smooth made it difficult for me to connect with her.
The third-act breakup didn’t help. It felt rushed, unnecessary, and added nothing but frustration.
🎧 Audiobook
This was a duet narration (always a win), performed by Connor Crais and M.K. Blackwood.
Connor Crais absolutely nailed Jasper’s quiet devotion—no surprise there; he can do no wrong. This was my first time listening to M.K. Blackwood, and she did a great job as well.
🎲 Final Take
This wasn’t a bad book—I just didn’t fully connect with it.
I loved Jasper and how hard he fell, and I genuinely enjoyed the cozy holiday moments. Unfortunately, Stella’s immaturity and the unnecessary third-act conflict kept this from fully working for me.
Tropes / What to Expect
🎄 Holiday novella
💰 Billionaire MMC
🎥 Fake dating
⚔️ Childhood rivals to lovers
💘 He falls first
🤫 Secret pining
🏞️ Small town
For the Holidays Series
1. Hostile for the Holidays — 3⭐️
2. Booked for the Holidays — 2.5 ⭐️ My review
October 10, 2025
Stella is on a flight back home for the holidays when she runs into Jasper, her childhood rival, in the terminal, catching the same flight back home, and surprise, they are sitting right next to each other! Stella suddenly gets sick on the flight and Jasper gives her a sweater to wear. Expecting a family member to pick her up at the airport, she is met by an old fling/family friend who volunteered to get her. In a panic, Stella says Jasper is her boyfriend and she's getting a ride with him. Jasper agrees to play along, but only if Stella will attend his family's Christmas party to avoid his family members setting him up with random people. What Stella doesn't know is Jasper's had a crush on her forever.
I'm a sucker for holiday romances where rivals or enemies get together after coming home for the holidays. I loved the arcade, cutting down the Christmas tree, the kind things Jasper did for Stella's family behind her back, and, one more adorable thing, but I'm not going to spoil it for you! There was also lots of banter and tension between Stella and Jensen. This book was so cute and fun!
This is my first M.K. Blackwood audio and I thought she did a wonderful job. I'd definitely grab another book that lists her as a narrator. We all know how I feel about Connor Crais… he can do no wrong!
A big thank you to the author and Must Love Audio for an advanced copy of this audiobook. Opinions are my own.
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love cute and fun home for the holidays romances where the characters aren't too fond of one another… at first!
I'm a sucker for holiday romances where rivals or enemies get together after coming home for the holidays. I loved the arcade, cutting down the Christmas tree, the kind things Jasper did for Stella's family behind her back, and, one more adorable thing, but I'm not going to spoil it for you! There was also lots of banter and tension between Stella and Jensen. This book was so cute and fun!
This is my first M.K. Blackwood audio and I thought she did a wonderful job. I'd definitely grab another book that lists her as a narrator. We all know how I feel about Connor Crais… he can do no wrong!
A big thank you to the author and Must Love Audio for an advanced copy of this audiobook. Opinions are my own.
THIS BOOK IS FOR YOU IF: You love cute and fun home for the holidays romances where the characters aren't too fond of one another… at first!
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February 27, 2025
3.25 ☆ wdym i didn’t have an academic rivalry with a tech billionaire who fake dates me, has been in love with me for over 20 years, ties me up in ribbons like a gift while he lets me ride his face
jasper was an endearing simp i’d only have kicked him to curb and robbed him of his money for calling me sparky
for a holiday novella? kinda impressed with the palpable chemistry and how much i liked this. it’s OTT, hallmark on steroids at times but a good fast paced cozy read all the same
stella does cling a bit hard at their usual dynamic of rivalry and didn’t have to react how she reacted to create a conflict— but it’s brief so i can’t mind it much
n why did i only realize she was blond through trimmed light colored vag hairs
jasper was an endearing simp i’d only have kicked him to curb and robbed him of his money for calling me sparky
for a holiday novella? kinda impressed with the palpable chemistry and how much i liked this. it’s OTT, hallmark on steroids at times but a good fast paced cozy read all the same
stella does cling a bit hard at their usual dynamic of rivalry and didn’t have to react how she reacted to create a conflict— but it’s brief so i can’t mind it much
n why did i only realize she was blond through trimmed light colored vag hairs
January 7, 2025
I usually really enjoy reading Erin Hawkins books. This Novela? Not so much. Stella, the h, is incredibly unlikeable. She's bitter and selfish and unpleasant to everyone. I don't understand, at all why or how Jasper could like her much less love her. However, the sex scenes were hot and there were a few cute scenes thrown in.
2025 Bingo Read Challenge--"I loved you since childhood" trope
2025 Bingo Read Challenge--"I loved you since childhood" trope
December 13, 2025
perfect holiday novella! 🎄
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
🎧 CONNOR in DUET?? Yes please.
⋆*･ﾟ:⋆*･ﾟ➳❥ pre-read
🎧 CONNOR in DUET?? Yes please.
November 28, 2024
This was such a great holiday novella. I absolutely loved Jasper and Stella and their little rivalry. Jasper was such a golden retriever MMC and the way he cared for Stella from the very beginning was so cute.
It had the perfect amount of spice and Christmas vibes, and was such a fun and fast-paced read. I loved every second and it had me laughing out loud at certain points.
Thank you to the author and Pen Pal PR for the ARC.
It had the perfect amount of spice and Christmas vibes, and was such a fun and fast-paced read. I loved every second and it had me laughing out loud at certain points.
Thank you to the author and Pen Pal PR for the ARC.
November 27, 2024
Rating: 4.25 stars
If you’re looking for a festive romance with sizzling chemistry and laugh-out-loud moments, Hostile for the Holidays delivers. This novella blends next-door-neighbor chaos, fake dating shenanigans, and just the right amount of enemies-to-lovers tension to keep you hooked from the first page.
The story follows two rivals who are thrown together by a twist of fate—and a little holiday magic. Forced to fake a relationship, their banter is sharp, their chemistry is undeniable, and the slow unraveling of their true feelings feels oh-so-satisfying.
Erin Hawkins masterfully balances the holiday charm with a touch of spice, making this the perfect seasonal read for romance lovers who like their books on the naughty and nice list. While the novella format leaves you wishing for just a bit more time with these characters, the pacing is spot-on, and the ending wraps everything up with a satisfying bow.
A must-read for fans of cozy, spicy romances during the holidays. You’ll want to add this one to your holiday TBR immediately!
December 18, 2025
Audio reread - still absolute perfection, but turned up a notch… this narration?! Phenomenal. Connor is PERFECT as the obsessed, secretly pining Jasper. This man is so sweet and has been down bad for YEARS. M.K. was amazing as Stella as well.
They’re rivals and their banter was so fun they turned everything into a competition 🤣
Love love love. Going to reread every Christmas!
💚Holiday novella
❤️Billionaire MMC
💚Enemies to lovers
❤️Secret pining
💚Fake dating
❤️It’s always been you
🎧Duet narration
🎙️Narrators: Connor Crais and M.K. Blackwood
Original review:
I absolutely devoured this sweet and spicy holiday novella!
Stella and Jasper have been rivals since childhood, and now they’re thrown back together on a plane ride home. They decide to fake date, and Jasper decides this is the year he makes his real feelings known. He’s been pining for Stella for years. I loved their tension-filled rival-banter that slowly transformed into real flirty banter.
Definitely one of my favorite holiday novellas. If you’re looking for one, definitely give this one a shot!
They’re rivals and their banter was so fun they turned everything into a competition 🤣
Love love love. Going to reread every Christmas!
💚Holiday novella
❤️Billionaire MMC
💚Enemies to lovers
❤️Secret pining
💚Fake dating
❤️It’s always been you
🎧Duet narration
🎙️Narrators: Connor Crais and M.K. Blackwood
Original review:
I absolutely devoured this sweet and spicy holiday novella!
Stella and Jasper have been rivals since childhood, and now they’re thrown back together on a plane ride home. They decide to fake date, and Jasper decides this is the year he makes his real feelings known. He’s been pining for Stella for years. I loved their tension-filled rival-banter that slowly transformed into real flirty banter.
Definitely one of my favorite holiday novellas. If you’re looking for one, definitely give this one a shot!
Want to read
November 20, 2024Hostile for the Holidays is a spicy romcom holiday novella featuring childhood rivals to lovers, fake dating, and secret pining (him). It's coming to ebook, kindleunlimited, and paperback on November 27th.
October 14, 2025
Hostile for the Holidays by Erin Hawkins is everything I want in a bite sized festive romance, it’s funny, spicy, and absolutely charming. This holiday novella has all the cozy small town vibes (and plenty of snowy banter!) as childhood rivals fake date their way through the season. The audio duet narration by MK Blackwood and Connor Crais was perfection, it was my first time hearing her, and she was fantastic, while Connor, as always, nailed the chemistry and emotion. It’s the perfect mix of festive chaos, secret pining, and sexy holiday fun that’ll make you want to curl up with cocoa and listen straight through.⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Thank you @mustloveaudio for the alc
Tropes:
❤️Fake Dating
🏡Home for the Holidays
💞 He Falls First
❄️Small Town
🤫Secret Pining
⚡️Childhood Rivals
📕 Novella
Tropes:
❤️Fake Dating
🏡Home for the Holidays
💞 He Falls First
❄️Small Town
🤫Secret Pining
⚡️Childhood Rivals
📕 Novella
December 18, 2024
I LOVE a “if he wanted to, he would” kind of man, and oh my gawd Jasper hits that right on the head. The chemistry was chemistring. 🥵
This was SUCH a cute quick holiday read. It’s witty, charming and will have you kicking your legs at how fuggggin cute Jasper is.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️1/2
Childhood rivals
He falls first
Fake dating
Small town romance
Slow burn
Frenemies to lovers
This was SUCH a cute quick holiday read. It’s witty, charming and will have you kicking your legs at how fuggggin cute Jasper is.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️1/2
Childhood rivals
He falls first
Fake dating
Small town romance
Slow burn
Frenemies to lovers
December 27, 2024
3.25?⭐
El academic rivals to lovers tiene ese no sé qué que nunca falla
El academic rivals to lovers tiene ese no sé qué que nunca falla
November 29, 2024
perfect Christmas rivals
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This was absolutely adorable! I picked this up on a complete whim and I’m so glad I did. Rivals to lovers with a holiday twist is a superior trope and no one can convince me otherwise!
Stella and Jasper were everything i didn’t know I needed and more!
🎄Childhood Rivals to Lovers
🎄 Small Town
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Billionaire MMC
Stella and Jasper have been rivals and neighbors since third grade, and when they bump into each other on a holiday flight to their small hometown, they pick up right where they left off trading insults with each other. But when they decide to fake date for the holidays, Jasper sets out to make Stella fall in love with him for real.
The banter. THE BANTER, this was top tier banter and bickering as foreplay and I was here for it. This was was a pining mess and nothing makes me happier than seeing the POV of the guy when they are supposed to be enemies but instead he’s a goner. It was so good!
Plus the spice was just right and hot as can be! Absolutely recommend! Y’all need to read this now!
RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨
SPICE: 🔥🔥🔥
This was absolutely adorable! I picked this up on a complete whim and I’m so glad I did. Rivals to lovers with a holiday twist is a superior trope and no one can convince me otherwise!
Stella and Jasper were everything i didn’t know I needed and more!
🎄Childhood Rivals to Lovers
🎄 Small Town
🎄 He Falls First
🎄 Billionaire MMC
Stella and Jasper have been rivals and neighbors since third grade, and when they bump into each other on a holiday flight to their small hometown, they pick up right where they left off trading insults with each other. But when they decide to fake date for the holidays, Jasper sets out to make Stella fall in love with him for real.
The banter. THE BANTER, this was top tier banter and bickering as foreplay and I was here for it. This was was a pining mess and nothing makes me happier than seeing the POV of the guy when they are supposed to be enemies but instead he’s a goner. It was so good!
Plus the spice was just right and hot as can be! Absolutely recommend! Y’all need to read this now!
November 24, 2024
STELLAAAA
Hostile for the Holidays is a witty, romantic comedy decked out in spicy holiday fun, where childhood rivals are forced to pretend to be a couple in order to survive their family Christmas celebrations. With sharp banter, irresistible chemistry, and the perfect mix of festive chaos and romance, this book is an unmissable holiday treat for anyone who loves a good "rivals to lovers" story with a side of holiday magic.
Stella’s holiday plans hit a snag when she unexpectedly runs into her childhood rival, Jasper Jensen, at the airport. Just when things couldn't get more awkward, Stella’s obnoxious ex-hookup, Daniel, shows up to drive her home, and in a panic, she blurts out that Jasper is her boyfriend.
What starts as a seemingly harmless lie quickly spirals into a hilarious—and steamy—charade as the two navigate family gatherings, old rivalries, and undeniable chemistry. Hawkins weaves the perfect amount of tension, humor, and heart, making this a must-read for anyone who loves a good holiday romance with a side of spice.
This novella had the kind of pining I live for! The tension between Stella and Jasper had me smiling, blushing, and turning pages faster than I could keep up. I had such a great time reading this—it's the perfect blend of humor, heat, and heart. Stella is definitely a bit of a grump, refusing to let this fake dating be a smooth experience for either of them, but Jasper's patience is endless for the girl he's had a thing for since childhood.
Their competitive dynamic made every interaction feel like a sweet little victory, with each moment of tension building into something even more satisfying. The way they clashed and connected had me hooked from start to finish. Every sarcastic jab and unexpected moment of tenderness made their relationship feel all the more real and irresistible. The beginning was definitely fast paced as was the entire story however the beginning felt as though everything was happening quite perfectly for the set up. Not necessarily a bad thing, just a little expected but, it did not hurt the story at all.
Trust me, you’ll want to add Hostile for the Holidays to your Christmas/Holiday TBR list for the sweetest treat! It’s the perfect combination of festive fun, fiery chemistry, and heartwarming moments that will leave you smiling long after you’ve finished reading. Don’t miss out on this delightful holiday romance!
#FavoriteARC
Hostile for the Holidays is a witty, romantic comedy decked out in spicy holiday fun, where childhood rivals are forced to pretend to be a couple in order to survive their family Christmas celebrations. With sharp banter, irresistible chemistry, and the perfect mix of festive chaos and romance, this book is an unmissable holiday treat for anyone who loves a good "rivals to lovers" story with a side of holiday magic.
Stella’s holiday plans hit a snag when she unexpectedly runs into her childhood rival, Jasper Jensen, at the airport. Just when things couldn't get more awkward, Stella’s obnoxious ex-hookup, Daniel, shows up to drive her home, and in a panic, she blurts out that Jasper is her boyfriend.
What starts as a seemingly harmless lie quickly spirals into a hilarious—and steamy—charade as the two navigate family gatherings, old rivalries, and undeniable chemistry. Hawkins weaves the perfect amount of tension, humor, and heart, making this a must-read for anyone who loves a good holiday romance with a side of spice.
This novella had the kind of pining I live for! The tension between Stella and Jasper had me smiling, blushing, and turning pages faster than I could keep up. I had such a great time reading this—it's the perfect blend of humor, heat, and heart. Stella is definitely a bit of a grump, refusing to let this fake dating be a smooth experience for either of them, but Jasper's patience is endless for the girl he's had a thing for since childhood.
Their competitive dynamic made every interaction feel like a sweet little victory, with each moment of tension building into something even more satisfying. The way they clashed and connected had me hooked from start to finish. Every sarcastic jab and unexpected moment of tenderness made their relationship feel all the more real and irresistible. The beginning was definitely fast paced as was the entire story however the beginning felt as though everything was happening quite perfectly for the set up. Not necessarily a bad thing, just a little expected but, it did not hurt the story at all.
Trust me, you’ll want to add Hostile for the Holidays to your Christmas/Holiday TBR list for the sweetest treat! It’s the perfect combination of festive fun, fiery chemistry, and heartwarming moments that will leave you smiling long after you’ve finished reading. Don’t miss out on this delightful holiday romance!
#FavoriteARC
November 27, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶
💞Rivals to lovers
💞Fake dating
💞He's been pinning for years
I love Erin Hawkins' writing, so I jumped at the chance to read this ARC.
Hostile for the Holidays is a quick read where we follow two rivals—or so the heroine thinks. The hero, Jasper, has actually been in love with Stella for years, but she’s the only one still clinging to the idea of their rivalry.
When Stella needs Jasper to pretend to be her boyfriend during the holiday season, he jumps at the chance to finally make his move. These two had plenty of funny moments, and the tension between them was undeniable. However, I have to admit, there were times I struggled to connect with the characters—they felt a little immature at points. But that’s just my take, and others might see it differently.
Even though this wasn’t my favorite book by Erin, I’ll definitely keep reading her work.
Big thanks to Pen Pal PR for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
🌶🌶
💞Rivals to lovers
💞Fake dating
💞He's been pinning for years
I love Erin Hawkins' writing, so I jumped at the chance to read this ARC.
Hostile for the Holidays is a quick read where we follow two rivals—or so the heroine thinks. The hero, Jasper, has actually been in love with Stella for years, but she’s the only one still clinging to the idea of their rivalry.
When Stella needs Jasper to pretend to be her boyfriend during the holiday season, he jumps at the chance to finally make his move. These two had plenty of funny moments, and the tension between them was undeniable. However, I have to admit, there were times I struggled to connect with the characters—they felt a little immature at points. But that’s just my take, and others might see it differently.
Even though this wasn’t my favorite book by Erin, I’ll definitely keep reading her work.
Big thanks to Pen Pal PR for sending me this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
December 6, 2025
I ate this one up!!! Could not stop listening because the duet narration was amazing! Stella and Jasper were perfect together, and were so well suited for each other. Idk how to explain their trope, it was like childhood enemies to lovers who fake date as adults? But it was so unique and fun! I loved their spicy scenes, and their banter and seeing them get their HEA!
December 24, 2024
3.75⭐️
While I overall enjoyed this novella, as I enjoy pretty much everything Erin writes, I just couldn’t understand how a 28 year old woman could not get over a childhood rivalry. Especially when the brief break was due to a moment that happened in 7th grade, and with how successful she is in her career, her hanging onto that past rivalry came off as immature and frustrating (to me as the reader). Yessss she had to process her feelings and yada yada but Jasper is/was perfect and I love him. I’m glad the emotional processing time was quick but I could’ve gone without it all together. It was still cute and I enjoyed all the Christmas touches.
While I overall enjoyed this novella, as I enjoy pretty much everything Erin writes, I just couldn’t understand how a 28 year old woman could not get over a childhood rivalry. Especially when the brief break was due to a moment that happened in 7th grade, and with how successful she is in her career, her hanging onto that past rivalry came off as immature and frustrating (to me as the reader). Yessss she had to process her feelings and yada yada but Jasper is/was perfect and I love him. I’m glad the emotional processing time was quick but I could’ve gone without it all together. It was still cute and I enjoyed all the Christmas touches.
December 14, 2025
♥️fake dating
♥️enemies to lovers
♥️Christmas novella
♥️spicy
♥️small town
♥️enemies to lovers
♥️Christmas novella
♥️spicy
♥️small town
November 26, 2024
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙥𝙚𝙣𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙮𝙤𝙪?”
“𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙎𝙩. 𝙅𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨.”
Y’all. Jasper and Stella. That’s it. That’s all you need this holiday season.
Want to know what’s better than a childhood rivals to lovers? A “childhood rivals to lovers” where, plot twist, he’s loved her the whole time. A childhood rivals to lovers where they have to fake date for the holidays, but he uses that time to convince her that they belong together.
This spicy little novella had EVERYTHING I needed:
-Caretaking (on a plane, right off the bat?!)
-A DownBad Man (since forever)
-Big gestures (that have been going on since before she ever realized she loved him)
-Matching ugly sweaters
-“Running across the front yard” desperation
And of course, an ease with any Erin Hawkins book that makes it feel like you’re getting a warm hug while reading. 10/10 recommend!
“𝙎𝙩𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙖 𝙎𝙩. 𝙅𝙖𝙢𝙚𝙨.”
Y’all. Jasper and Stella. That’s it. That’s all you need this holiday season.
Want to know what’s better than a childhood rivals to lovers? A “childhood rivals to lovers” where, plot twist, he’s loved her the whole time. A childhood rivals to lovers where they have to fake date for the holidays, but he uses that time to convince her that they belong together.
This spicy little novella had EVERYTHING I needed:
-Caretaking (on a plane, right off the bat?!)
-A DownBad Man (since forever)
-Big gestures (that have been going on since before she ever realized she loved him)
-Matching ugly sweaters
-“Running across the front yard” desperation
And of course, an ease with any Erin Hawkins book that makes it feel like you’re getting a warm hug while reading. 10/10 recommend!
November 26, 2025
i loved this, perfect for the holiday season.
also connor crais >>>>>>>>
also connor crais >>>>>>>>
December 14, 2024
The story worked in a short time frame because they had so much history. I love a man who is pining, and Jasper delivered that man who is absolutely gone perfectly. Good tension, good spice, Christmas cuteness.
October 9, 2025
Jasper and Stella’s story had me hooked from beginning to end! Once childhood rivals, they unexpectedly cross paths years later on a flight back to their hometown, where Stella’s old fling is waiting to win her over. In a moment of panic, she convinces Jasper to pose as her fake boyfriend, and he agree on the condition that she comes to his family’s Christmas Eve party. What starts as a simple arrangement quickly turns into something more, as their undeniable chemistry sparks in all the best ways.
M.K. Blackwood and Connor Crais do an incredible job bringing Stella and Jasper to life. Their performances capture the tension, humor, and heat between the two perfectly. If you’re in the mood for a quick, spicy holiday romance, this one is an absolute must listen!
Thank you, Erin Hawkins and Must Love Audio For the ALC.
M.K. Blackwood and Connor Crais do an incredible job bringing Stella and Jasper to life. Their performances capture the tension, humor, and heat between the two perfectly. If you’re in the mood for a quick, spicy holiday romance, this one is an absolute must listen!
Thank you, Erin Hawkins and Must Love Audio For the ALC.
November 27, 2024
In all my years of reading I have never given a novella five stars. I honestly didn't think it was possible since I reserve the five star tier for the best of the best and novellas don't allow for much room for excellence. This book proved me wrong as my first five star novella.
If you're looking for the PERFECT holiday novella with intense amounts of PINING, pick this up. Childhood rivals run into each other in their hometown and fake date. Little does the FMC know (but what we know from the start) the MMC has been madly in love with her for over a decade and this is his chance to show her that they can be more than rivals.
I read it on a cold day in a warm coffee shop in front of a fire which I think is the way it's meant to be read. This novella is pure holiday joy and made me want to start decorating for Christmas already!
If you're looking for the PERFECT holiday novella with intense amounts of PINING, pick this up. Childhood rivals run into each other in their hometown and fake date. Little does the FMC know (but what we know from the start) the MMC has been madly in love with her for over a decade and this is his chance to show her that they can be more than rivals.
I read it on a cold day in a warm coffee shop in front of a fire which I think is the way it's meant to be read. This novella is pure holiday joy and made me want to start decorating for Christmas already!
January 7, 2026
2.75 stars ✨
Oh, how I LOVE when men pine 😫
Jasper and Stella were adorable but incredibly childish. Jasper lowkey made her look like a fool. Stella did frustrate me for turning everything into a competition, but Jasper really was always playing into it. I understand that he may not have had a firm grasp on his feelings or felt ready to be so vulnerable, but this story takes place how many years after parting ways for college? Also, why now? Why did he suddenly decide that he was finally going to try to get Stella to change her opinion of him? The timeline feels tricky.
Stella was equally annoying. I understand that she really loves Christmas, but she was being selfish. Of course her family is super busy getting ready for her sister’s wedding the following week. They’re skipping ONE Christmas to celebrate their loved one. Plus, the whole point of the holiday season is to enjoy spending time with family and friends. She could’ve still done that if she had partaken in the wedding prep.
The Christmas details were sweet and helped create a real wintery vibe. I loved the little gifts and the imagery of each moment.
Overall, the main characters were immature, but their chemistry still made for an entertaining read.
Audiobook side note: M. K. Blackwood doesn’t do many different female voices, but I still enjoyed her narration. Connor Crais is now officially on my “top narrators” list.
Oh, how I LOVE when men pine 😫
Jasper and Stella were adorable but incredibly childish. Jasper lowkey made her look like a fool. Stella did frustrate me for turning everything into a competition, but Jasper really was always playing into it. I understand that he may not have had a firm grasp on his feelings or felt ready to be so vulnerable, but this story takes place how many years after parting ways for college? Also, why now? Why did he suddenly decide that he was finally going to try to get Stella to change her opinion of him? The timeline feels tricky.
Stella was equally annoying. I understand that she really loves Christmas, but she was being selfish. Of course her family is super busy getting ready for her sister’s wedding the following week. They’re skipping ONE Christmas to celebrate their loved one. Plus, the whole point of the holiday season is to enjoy spending time with family and friends. She could’ve still done that if she had partaken in the wedding prep.
The Christmas details were sweet and helped create a real wintery vibe. I loved the little gifts and the imagery of each moment.
Overall, the main characters were immature, but their chemistry still made for an entertaining read.
Audiobook side note: M. K. Blackwood doesn’t do many different female voices, but I still enjoyed her narration. Connor Crais is now officially on my “top narrators” list.
January 4, 2025
THIS IS HOW I ALWAYS WANT TO FEEL WHEN I PICK UP A BOOK. Feet kicking, giggling, don’t want to put it down kinda thing. From the first page until the last, I was enthralled.
✨Erin Hawkins is criminally underrated. She should be one of the biggest names in the game✨
“On the other side of our first kiss, I’m already planning a million more.”
Look, I was not feeling holiday reads this season so I was late to the game on this. I committed to reading it because this author has quickly become a one-click, favorite of mine. Jasper might be my favorite MMC of hers now, too, which is crazy because I didn’t think Griffin could be beat. (Mary, we’re gonna need his stickers to match our others)
You won’t regret reading this- December or not- it’s the right time to read it if you’re in the mood for a solid swoon.
✨Erin Hawkins is criminally underrated. She should be one of the biggest names in the game✨
“On the other side of our first kiss, I’m already planning a million more.”
Look, I was not feeling holiday reads this season so I was late to the game on this. I committed to reading it because this author has quickly become a one-click, favorite of mine. Jasper might be my favorite MMC of hers now, too, which is crazy because I didn’t think Griffin could be beat. (Mary, we’re gonna need his stickers to match our others)
You won’t regret reading this- December or not- it’s the right time to read it if you’re in the mood for a solid swoon.
December 17, 2025
My first Erin Hawkins book. I'm definitely going to listen to Book 2 in the series.
Duet narration by Connor Crais (swoon) and new to me narrator, MK Blackwood, was excellent. Connor is quickly becoming an absolute favorite of all time.
Jasper and Stella grew up together as childhood enemies. They were always trying to best each other in every competition ever.
Both are on a plane from New York to Colorado and unfortunately for Stella sitting next to each other. From food poisoning on the plane (Stella) to the very end, this story had me laughing and crying at the same time.
Duet narration by Connor Crais (swoon) and new to me narrator, MK Blackwood, was excellent. Connor is quickly becoming an absolute favorite of all time.
Jasper and Stella grew up together as childhood enemies. They were always trying to best each other in every competition ever.
Both are on a plane from New York to Colorado and unfortunately for Stella sitting next to each other. From food poisoning on the plane (Stella) to the very end, this story had me laughing and crying at the same time.
November 9, 2025
Insufferable FMC. Unbelievable that Jasper has been in love with her for so long and they only see each other once a year for the past 10 years? Yeah no.
Don’t even get me started on their third act “break”
Don’t even get me started on their third act “break”
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