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Mount Holly Christmas #2
Snow Strings Attached
Fake dating my firefighter best friend was supposed to solve my holiday problem—not ignite a new one.
Getting dumped in front of the entire town at the Holly Jolly Festival tree lighting was not on my Christmas bingo card. Neither was showing up to my family’s annual cabin week single… especially when my parents were expecting Dr. Perfect.
Instead… I arrive with Mason Carter.
My best friend. Mount Holly’s hottest firefighter. And the last man I should be sharing a bed with for a week.
When Mason hears about my situation, he volunteers to be my fake boyfriend—apparently rescuing damsels in distress isn’t limited to burning buildings.
Pretending to date my best friend should be easy. Smile for my parents. Cuddle next to the fire. Kiss under the mistletoe.
Except Mason doesn’t pretend halfway.
He touches me like I’m the only person that matters.
Looks at me like nothing else exists.
And kisses me like he’s been waiting years.
Waking up next to him every morning makes everything—harder.
The only thing more complicated than fake dating your best friend…
Is realizing you might actually be in love with him.
Snow Strings Attached is a friends to lovers, fake dating, small town Christmas romantic comedy. Be prepared to laugh-out-loud one minute and swoon the next in this steamy interconnected standalone romcom. Each book in the Mount Holly Christmas series is set in the same world and delivers a guaranteed happily ever after.
Getting dumped in front of the entire town at the Holly Jolly Festival tree lighting was not on my Christmas bingo card. Neither was showing up to my family’s annual cabin week single… especially when my parents were expecting Dr. Perfect.
Instead… I arrive with Mason Carter.
My best friend. Mount Holly’s hottest firefighter. And the last man I should be sharing a bed with for a week.
When Mason hears about my situation, he volunteers to be my fake boyfriend—apparently rescuing damsels in distress isn’t limited to burning buildings.
Pretending to date my best friend should be easy. Smile for my parents. Cuddle next to the fire. Kiss under the mistletoe.
Except Mason doesn’t pretend halfway.
He touches me like I’m the only person that matters.
Looks at me like nothing else exists.
And kisses me like he’s been waiting years.
Waking up next to him every morning makes everything—harder.
The only thing more complicated than fake dating your best friend…
Is realizing you might actually be in love with him.
Snow Strings Attached is a friends to lovers, fake dating, small town Christmas romantic comedy. Be prepared to laugh-out-loud one minute and swoon the next in this steamy interconnected standalone romcom. Each book in the Mount Holly Christmas series is set in the same world and delivers a guaranteed happily ever after.
380 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2026
About the author
Gia Stevens
16 books280 followersJoin Gia Stevens' Newsletter for exclusive material and a free e-book ➜ https://authorgiastevens.com/newslett...
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Gia Stevens is a romantic comedy author who believes love should come with plenty of laughs—and maybe a little heat. Known for her fun, lighthearted, and spicy stories, Gia writes the kind of books that let readers escape into swoony romances filled with witty banter, quirky characters, and happily ever afters that feel both cozy and exciting.
She lives in Northern Minnesota with her husband and their cat, forever counting down the days until summer and surviving long winters with tea, blankets, and a stack of romcoms. When she’s not busy writing your next book boyfriend, you can usually find her binge-watching shows everyone else finished years ago or curled up with a romance novel.
If you’re looking for stories that guarantee laughs, swoons, and plenty of LOLs, you’ve come to the right place.
Facebook ➜ https://www.facebook.com/authorgiaste...
Instagram ➜ https://www.instagram.com/authorgiast...
TikTok ➜ https://www.tiktok.com/@authorgiastevens
Website ➜ https://authorgiastevens.com
Gia Stevens is a romantic comedy author who believes love should come with plenty of laughs—and maybe a little heat. Known for her fun, lighthearted, and spicy stories, Gia writes the kind of books that let readers escape into swoony romances filled with witty banter, quirky characters, and happily ever afters that feel both cozy and exciting.
She lives in Northern Minnesota with her husband and their cat, forever counting down the days until summer and surviving long winters with tea, blankets, and a stack of romcoms. When she’s not busy writing your next book boyfriend, you can usually find her binge-watching shows everyone else finished years ago or curled up with a romance novel.
If you’re looking for stories that guarantee laughs, swoons, and plenty of LOLs, you’ve come to the right place.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
⭐ Rating: 4.5 Stars.
✨ The Vibe
A cozy holiday rom-com filled with best-friends-to-lovers tension, fake dating, a firefighter hero, cabin-week proximity, and some Christmas magic. Expect sweet moments, excellent spice, laugh-out-loud humor, small-town shenanigans, and a romance that makes pretending to be in love a very dangerous idea.
🫶 Who Will Love This?
If you love friends-to-lovers and a fake dating trope, this is your book! With hot firefighters, a Christmas setting, a small-town community, and a cast of lovable side characters, you'll definitely want to add this to your holiday TBR! 🎄
🔥 Tropes & Elements
- Holiday romance
- Friends to lovers
- Fake dating
- Firefighter romance
- Small-town romance
- Crazy, adorable sheep
- Found community & shenanigans
💭 My Thoughts
This was my first book by Gia Stevens, and I'm SO glad I read it! ❤️ This is such a lovely friends-to-lovers, fake-dating romance. It has excellent spice, adorable and touching moments, humor, and even a little suspense.
Mason and Willa are simply ADORABLE together. I loved their dynamic, the chemistry, and the way their fake relationship makes everything so much more complicated.
The writing is fantastic, the pacing flows beautifully, and I laughed out loud multiple times. It's such an easy, entertaining read!
But the supporting cast deserves some love too. Mason's firefighter colleagues, Willa's friends, and the entire small-town community brought so much fun to the story. I really hope we get to see more of them in future books! Obviously, we need to talk about Brad, the adorable sheep, who brings his own special brand of chaos. 🐑😂
I also LOVE that both main characters are in their late thirties and that the book doesn't make a big deal out of it. They're simply adults falling in love, and I really appreciated that.
Overall, this was such a charming, funny, and spicy holiday read. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and Gia Stevens has definitely made a great first impression!
📢 Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley, and the author for providing me with an ARC. All thoughts & opinions are always my own.
✨ The Vibe
A cozy holiday rom-com filled with best-friends-to-lovers tension, fake dating, a firefighter hero, cabin-week proximity, and some Christmas magic. Expect sweet moments, excellent spice, laugh-out-loud humor, small-town shenanigans, and a romance that makes pretending to be in love a very dangerous idea.
🫶 Who Will Love This?
If you love friends-to-lovers and a fake dating trope, this is your book! With hot firefighters, a Christmas setting, a small-town community, and a cast of lovable side characters, you'll definitely want to add this to your holiday TBR! 🎄
🔥 Tropes & Elements
- Holiday romance
- Friends to lovers
- Fake dating
- Firefighter romance
- Small-town romance
- Crazy, adorable sheep
- Found community & shenanigans
💭 My Thoughts
This was my first book by Gia Stevens, and I'm SO glad I read it! ❤️ This is such a lovely friends-to-lovers, fake-dating romance. It has excellent spice, adorable and touching moments, humor, and even a little suspense.
Mason and Willa are simply ADORABLE together. I loved their dynamic, the chemistry, and the way their fake relationship makes everything so much more complicated.
The writing is fantastic, the pacing flows beautifully, and I laughed out loud multiple times. It's such an easy, entertaining read!
But the supporting cast deserves some love too. Mason's firefighter colleagues, Willa's friends, and the entire small-town community brought so much fun to the story. I really hope we get to see more of them in future books! Obviously, we need to talk about Brad, the adorable sheep, who brings his own special brand of chaos. 🐑😂
I also LOVE that both main characters are in their late thirties and that the book doesn't make a big deal out of it. They're simply adults falling in love, and I really appreciated that.
Overall, this was such a charming, funny, and spicy holiday read. I thoroughly enjoyed it, and Gia Stevens has definitely made a great first impression!
📢 Disclosure: Thank you to the publisher, NetGalley, and the author for providing me with an ARC. All thoughts & opinions are always my own.
October 17, 2026
If you are after a hot firefighter who is secretly in love with his best friend who agrees to be her fake boyfriend for Christmas than Snow Strings Attached is the festive read for you. This swoony romance is filled with witty banter, enduring characters all set in a cozy small town. The chemistry and more importantly the friendship between Mason and Willa was next level and them together was perfect. I loved that the main characters were in their late thirties as we all don’t find our happy ever after early in our lives. This was such an enjoyable read!
I received a complementary copy from NetGalley.
I received a complementary copy from NetGalley.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Mason and Willa. They're both in their late thirties?! Yikes! That's kind of old to start a life together as an official couple, isn't it? Are more readers wanting the MMC and FMCs to be older? It's interesting to note, to me, that in spite of their "advanced" age, neither Mason nor Willa has a child, yet. That's absotively posolutely NOT a bad thing; I'm simply commenting on it. To me, it's especially unusual since they move in that direction. Their love story is sweet, hot, and everything a romcom is supposed to be. I love Mason and Willa's dynamic together. They are simply adorable! Mason will wear that ridiculous red checkered hat any time Willa wants him to. *sa-woon* What's not to love!!! I cried at the climax, gotta say. That ripped my heart out! I know something like that is always possible, but at least it gives Mason the inpetus needed (the kick in the pants, so to speak)!
BTW: the side plot of Willa's sister and brother-in-law is tender and wonderful!!!
*I received an ARC from the author herself. My reivew is completely my own; I have not been paid.
BTW: the side plot of Willa's sister and brother-in-law is tender and wonderful!!!
*I received an ARC from the author herself. My reivew is completely my own; I have not been paid.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to Gia Stevens for an ARC of Snow Strings Attached! Please always take care of yourselves and check the author's socials for any trigger warnings before jumping into a book. Just a PSA, there might be spoilers ahead.
This is a small town Christmas romantic comedy with two friends who end up fake dating over the holidays. This was such a fun premise and had the cutest cozy holiday vibes. I adored how this book started (I was actually laughing out loud), and the start was able to show the genuine friendship that exists between the two main characters Willa and Mason.
Our FMC Willa, recently dumped, comes from an affluent family and is considered the black sheep for not following into the medical field like her parents and instead owning a diner. Her best friend for years Mason, is a firefighter and an absolute yearner who has been in love with her for 6 years. He is a super attentive MMC who shows his care and love through acts of service. As a duo they have fun communication and banter and their chemistry was definitely there when she agrees to his fake dating proposal. Now onto the spice, which was spicy, but in my opinion for a fun holiday rom com it suited the characters' story.
I did find it hard to believe that she didn't know that he had been pining for so many years, and I also found it hard to understand that if they had been friends for so many years surely her family would already know him on a personal level. However, my main gripe with the story is that I just felt like I didn't know these characters. I would have loved a little backstory to them meeting for the first time, becoming friends and his realisation that he is in love with her best friend.
Whilst not the most memorable read for me, it was still an entertaining and easy read. If you're after a fun, spicy, feel good holiday romance with the cutest cozy Christmas vibes I definitely recommend adding this to your TBR.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5
Spicy Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
This is a small town Christmas romantic comedy with two friends who end up fake dating over the holidays. This was such a fun premise and had the cutest cozy holiday vibes. I adored how this book started (I was actually laughing out loud), and the start was able to show the genuine friendship that exists between the two main characters Willa and Mason.
Our FMC Willa, recently dumped, comes from an affluent family and is considered the black sheep for not following into the medical field like her parents and instead owning a diner. Her best friend for years Mason, is a firefighter and an absolute yearner who has been in love with her for 6 years. He is a super attentive MMC who shows his care and love through acts of service. As a duo they have fun communication and banter and their chemistry was definitely there when she agrees to his fake dating proposal. Now onto the spice, which was spicy, but in my opinion for a fun holiday rom com it suited the characters' story.
I did find it hard to believe that she didn't know that he had been pining for so many years, and I also found it hard to understand that if they had been friends for so many years surely her family would already know him on a personal level. However, my main gripe with the story is that I just felt like I didn't know these characters. I would have loved a little backstory to them meeting for the first time, becoming friends and his realisation that he is in love with her best friend.
Whilst not the most memorable read for me, it was still an entertaining and easy read. If you're after a fun, spicy, feel good holiday romance with the cutest cozy Christmas vibes I definitely recommend adding this to your TBR.
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/ 5
Spicy Rating: 🌶️🌶️🌶️/ 5
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
“None of my past relationships lasted because I’ve always been in love with one girl. My best friend. She’s the only one who’s ever had my heart. And I’m afraid she’s the only one who ever will.”
This is a lovely friends-to-lovers, fake dating romance that hits all the right spots with excellent spice, touching and cute moments, humour, and even some suspense!
This is my first book by Gia Stevens and I’m so glad I read it. It’s amusing, has a host of side characters that I really hope will appear in future books (Mason’s firefighter colleagues! Willa’s friends!), and shows growth by both MCs.
Mason, a firefighter, has been in love with his friend Willa for years. Willa, the owner of a diner, is blind to his feelings for her.
Things come to a head when Willa gets dumped by her boyfriend and asks her friend Mason to step in as her (fake) boyfriend for her family’s Christmas festivities.
Mason has to overcome his fears of ruining his friendship with Willa when he comes clean about his feelings for her. Willa, in turn, has to deal with her feelings of inadequacy when it comes to her family - and realise how she feels about Mason.
I LOVE that both characters are in their late thirties and that the book doesn’t make a big deal out of this at all (no references to grey hairs or the characters being ‘old’ in any way) - it’s refreshing.
The story is well-written, flowing and easy to read. I looked forward to picking up where I had left off, each time I had some time to read.
In short - definitely recommended and I’m off to read more of Gia’s books!
Many thanks to Gia Stevens for the ARC.
This is a lovely friends-to-lovers, fake dating romance that hits all the right spots with excellent spice, touching and cute moments, humour, and even some suspense!
This is my first book by Gia Stevens and I’m so glad I read it. It’s amusing, has a host of side characters that I really hope will appear in future books (Mason’s firefighter colleagues! Willa’s friends!), and shows growth by both MCs.
Mason, a firefighter, has been in love with his friend Willa for years. Willa, the owner of a diner, is blind to his feelings for her.
Things come to a head when Willa gets dumped by her boyfriend and asks her friend Mason to step in as her (fake) boyfriend for her family’s Christmas festivities.
Mason has to overcome his fears of ruining his friendship with Willa when he comes clean about his feelings for her. Willa, in turn, has to deal with her feelings of inadequacy when it comes to her family - and realise how she feels about Mason.
I LOVE that both characters are in their late thirties and that the book doesn’t make a big deal out of this at all (no references to grey hairs or the characters being ‘old’ in any way) - it’s refreshing.
The story is well-written, flowing and easy to read. I looked forward to picking up where I had left off, each time I had some time to read.
In short - definitely recommended and I’m off to read more of Gia’s books!
Many thanks to Gia Stevens for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Snow Strings Attached by Gia Stevens sounds like the perfect holiday romcom for anyone who loves fake dating, friends-to-lovers, and plenty of Christmas magic! The combination of a firefighter hero, a cozy cabin getaway, forced proximity, and romantic tension made this a fun addition to a holiday reading list. I loved the idea of two best friends pretending to be a couple and discovering that their feelings might be much deeper than either expected. Add in festive holiday moments, mistletoe kisses, and the possibility of turning a fake relationship into something real, and you have all the ingredients for a swoony Christmas romance. Overall, Snow Strings Attached was a feel-good holiday story with beloved romance tropes, small-town charm, and a little heat mixed with Christmas cheer.
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
I received an ARC copy from NetGalley. Thank you for giving me the chance to read this novel and share my honest review of the novel
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for gifting me an advanced readers copy.
What a fun continuation of The Mount Holly Christmas series! The opening scene already had me laughing and set up the book perfectly for the two main characters. It felt like a warm hug getting to be back in Mount Holly with these characters. So many of my favorite tropes were included too: only one bed, fake dating, friends to lovers....what else could I want? I will always love how Gia Stevens writes humor/banter as well as how she writes such life into her side characters. It's rare that I feel connected with people other than the main characters when I read.
I struggled a little bit with the ending as it felt slightly rushed, but otherwise, I loved this book! Please add to your holiday tbrs!
Read if you like:
📚Holiday Romance
📚Friends to Lovers
📚Fake Dating
📚Only One Bed
📚Firefighter MMC
What a fun continuation of The Mount Holly Christmas series! The opening scene already had me laughing and set up the book perfectly for the two main characters. It felt like a warm hug getting to be back in Mount Holly with these characters. So many of my favorite tropes were included too: only one bed, fake dating, friends to lovers....what else could I want? I will always love how Gia Stevens writes humor/banter as well as how she writes such life into her side characters. It's rare that I feel connected with people other than the main characters when I read.
I struggled a little bit with the ending as it felt slightly rushed, but otherwise, I loved this book! Please add to your holiday tbrs!
Read if you like:
📚Holiday Romance
📚Friends to Lovers
📚Fake Dating
📚Only One Bed
📚Firefighter MMC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book was such a fun read! 🥰
I had the biggest smile on my face while reading this, and yes, I definitely shed a few tears too. The banter was so good, and I loved the little inside jokes. You could really feel their chemistry, and the spice? 🔥😏 Absolutely loved it!
I loved getting lost in their story and I’m already looking forward to Sloane’s story because I NEED to know what happens next!
If you’re debating whether to read this one… DO IT. You won’t regret it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I had the biggest smile on my face while reading this, and yes, I definitely shed a few tears too. The banter was so good, and I loved the little inside jokes. You could really feel their chemistry, and the spice? 🔥😏 Absolutely loved it!
I loved getting lost in their story and I’m already looking forward to Sloane’s story because I NEED to know what happens next!
If you’re debating whether to read this one… DO IT. You won’t regret it!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
October 13, 2026Snow Strings Attached is LIVE!
Read Willa and Mason's story today.
Direct Store: https://geni.us/SSA_Direct
Amazon: https://geni.us/SSA_Amazon
Kobo: https://geni.us/SSA_Kobo
Apple: https://geni.us/SSN_Apple
Barnes & Noble: https://geni.us/SSA_BN
Google Play: https://geni.us/SSA_GP
Read Willa and Mason's story today.
Direct Store: https://geni.us/SSA_Direct
Amazon: https://geni.us/SSA_Amazon
Kobo: https://geni.us/SSA_Kobo
Apple: https://geni.us/SSN_Apple
Barnes & Noble: https://geni.us/SSA_BN
Google Play: https://geni.us/SSA_GP
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Best friends to lovers, but he’s been secretly in love with her for 6 years? SIGN ME UP.
Friends to lovers is the better trope and I will die on that hill. This book delivered everything that I needed and more. I love when the male main characters are down bad and are not afraid of showing it, Mason was the perfect example of it. 90 percent of my book was highlights of Mason being a pathetic yearning man. I'm honestly relieved I read this at home because me grinning uncontrollably at my kindle definitely would’ve been alarming.
The chemistry between Willa and Mason was so natural. Their friendship was special, but seeing them as a couple was completely adoring. Mason standing up for Willa and not letting her family degrade her success and feelings was such a sweet gesture to demonstrate how much he cares and respects her. Chapters 20 and 21 had me literally in tears. What do you mean he's in a life or death situation and all he can think about is Willa! The marriage proposals? they were perfect, both of them.
The friendship aspect of the book was amazing. Mason's friend group was so fun and supportive, the whole “Mason Carter-fake boyfriend performance review” thing was one of my favorite parts of the book. I loved how the “committee” called him out on his feelings and proceeded to make a plan to successfully fake date Willa. Willa's friendship with Sloane and Brie was very sweet, I like how they assured her that her feelings are valid but she shouldn’t be afraid of wanting more. I’m so happy Willa got her happy ending, with Mason and her family.
“You're fake dating the woman whose pancake recipe you've memorized, adopted her hobbies as your own, and poof-discovered teleportation when she steps through the door.“
“I have to get back to her.
I don't just want more time with Willa. I want all of it. Every day. Every Christmas. The rest of my fucking life.”
His eyelids droop, but every time they close, he forces them open again.
“You should sleep," I whisper.
He gives a small shake of his head. "Can't."
"Why not?"
His fingers tighten weakly around mine. “Making
sure you're real."
Even though I read this when it was almost 100 degrees outside, Gia Stevens' writing made me feel like I was in the middle of a snow storm.
I can’t wait to read Sloane and Simon's book!
Thank you Gia Stevens, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC.
Friends to lovers is the better trope and I will die on that hill. This book delivered everything that I needed and more. I love when the male main characters are down bad and are not afraid of showing it, Mason was the perfect example of it. 90 percent of my book was highlights of Mason being a pathetic yearning man. I'm honestly relieved I read this at home because me grinning uncontrollably at my kindle definitely would’ve been alarming.
The chemistry between Willa and Mason was so natural. Their friendship was special, but seeing them as a couple was completely adoring. Mason standing up for Willa and not letting her family degrade her success and feelings was such a sweet gesture to demonstrate how much he cares and respects her. Chapters 20 and 21 had me literally in tears. What do you mean he's in a life or death situation and all he can think about is Willa! The marriage proposals? they were perfect, both of them.
The friendship aspect of the book was amazing. Mason's friend group was so fun and supportive, the whole “Mason Carter-fake boyfriend performance review” thing was one of my favorite parts of the book. I loved how the “committee” called him out on his feelings and proceeded to make a plan to successfully fake date Willa. Willa's friendship with Sloane and Brie was very sweet, I like how they assured her that her feelings are valid but she shouldn’t be afraid of wanting more. I’m so happy Willa got her happy ending, with Mason and her family.
“You're fake dating the woman whose pancake recipe you've memorized, adopted her hobbies as your own, and poof-discovered teleportation when she steps through the door.“
“I have to get back to her.
I don't just want more time with Willa. I want all of it. Every day. Every Christmas. The rest of my fucking life.”
His eyelids droop, but every time they close, he forces them open again.
“You should sleep," I whisper.
He gives a small shake of his head. "Can't."
"Why not?"
His fingers tighten weakly around mine. “Making
sure you're real."
Even though I read this when it was almost 100 degrees outside, Gia Stevens' writing made me feel like I was in the middle of a snow storm.
I can’t wait to read Sloane and Simon's book!
Thank you Gia Stevens, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op and NetGalley for the ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
October 8, 2026Willa owns a diner and she's very successful at it, but she comes from a line of medical professionals, both her parents or doctors, and that's all they wanted for her. So she feels the disappointment, every time she sees them. She's currently dating a man who is a doctor and she's excited to be able to bring him home for Christmas, hoping her parents will stay off her back unfortunately, at the holiday festival in the middle of town. She gets a breakup text from him. While her best friend is getting engaged on the stage, after making her anger publicly known accidentally, she tries to deal with the situation. Her best friend mason has an idea( she's a little uncomfortable with him. Because before the holiday festival, she accidentally saw him naked for the first time) she says they should fake a relationship. So her parents stay off her back. You'll be her boyfriend for the holiday vacation to make life a little easier on her. So off the go to her parents' cabin where she'll be with her parents and her sisters- she's dreading, it already- as Mason and her spend more time together at the cabin and just the lines of their relationship blur, as you can imagine, Mason stands up for her in more ways than one with her family. And when he leaves for christmas eve for a shift at the firehouse, she realizes how much he means to her- she goes to tell him, but gets in her own head, and then a tragedy occurs, and you'll have to read it to find out what happens because I am very firmly team, no spoilers- but it is a really good book. It is the second in the series which I didn't no, when I read it, but I will go back and read the first one and i'm excited for the third one. Each one is about one of the girls and the friend group- it has a great group of secondary characters. The guys of the firehouse are hysterical. It brings in a lot of Minnesota culture like ice fishing, curling and meat raffles- i'm from Minnesota, so it's nice seeing that stuff in books - definitely a really good holiday read ---it is spicy if you like spice this is a good one
Thank you to net galley for the arc., in exchange for an honest review
Thank you to net galley for the arc., in exchange for an honest review
October 13, 2026
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ of 5
Getting dumped in front of the entire town right before Christmas is brutal… but having your firefighter best friend volunteer as your fake boyfriend… Absolutely lethal. 🚒❄️✨
Snow Strings Attached by Gia Stevens is OFFICIALLY OUT TODAY, and it is the exact kind of festive, laugh-out-loud comfort read holiday romance dreams are made of! It takes two of my all-time favorite tropes… friends to lovers and fake dating, and packs them with cozy winter cabin vibes, hilarious banter, and an unbearable amount of mutual pining.
Willa Montgomery is thriving as the owner of the local diner, but when her boyfriend dumps her right before Christmas… she dreads facing her hypercritical family alone at their annual holiday cabin getaway. Enter Mason Carter: her longtime best friend, and Mount Holly’s favorite firefighter… the man who immediately steps up to play her adoring fake boyfriend.
The only problem… Pretending to be hopelessly down bad for Willa is not an act... It has never been. This man has been privately head over heels for her for six. Long. years!
What made this story such an absolute blast was the sheer history and chemistry between them. Having both leads in their late thirties felt so grounded and refreshing; their banter is effortless, their inside jokes feel earned, and watching the lines blur the second they share a room… had me grinning like an idiot. Mason is an elite-tier green flag hero. He does not just show up to play the part; he champions Willa, protects her against family judgment, and proves with every small gesture that she has always been his first choice.
Between hilarious small-town antics, a chaotic local sheep who steals the show… and a slow burn that turns into serious fire once they stop resisting… was pure holiday joy from page one. Go and grab your copy today, and definitely go check out Gia Stevens’ other books too (https://authorgiastevens.com/)!
A huge thank you to @authorgiastevens for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own; no AI was used.
Getting dumped in front of the entire town right before Christmas is brutal… but having your firefighter best friend volunteer as your fake boyfriend… Absolutely lethal. 🚒❄️✨
Snow Strings Attached by Gia Stevens is OFFICIALLY OUT TODAY, and it is the exact kind of festive, laugh-out-loud comfort read holiday romance dreams are made of! It takes two of my all-time favorite tropes… friends to lovers and fake dating, and packs them with cozy winter cabin vibes, hilarious banter, and an unbearable amount of mutual pining.
Willa Montgomery is thriving as the owner of the local diner, but when her boyfriend dumps her right before Christmas… she dreads facing her hypercritical family alone at their annual holiday cabin getaway. Enter Mason Carter: her longtime best friend, and Mount Holly’s favorite firefighter… the man who immediately steps up to play her adoring fake boyfriend.
The only problem… Pretending to be hopelessly down bad for Willa is not an act... It has never been. This man has been privately head over heels for her for six. Long. years!
What made this story such an absolute blast was the sheer history and chemistry between them. Having both leads in their late thirties felt so grounded and refreshing; their banter is effortless, their inside jokes feel earned, and watching the lines blur the second they share a room… had me grinning like an idiot. Mason is an elite-tier green flag hero. He does not just show up to play the part; he champions Willa, protects her against family judgment, and proves with every small gesture that she has always been his first choice.
Between hilarious small-town antics, a chaotic local sheep who steals the show… and a slow burn that turns into serious fire once they stop resisting… was pure holiday joy from page one. Go and grab your copy today, and definitely go check out Gia Stevens’ other books too (https://authorgiastevens.com/)!
A huge thank you to @authorgiastevens for my ARC! All thoughts and opinions are 100% my own; no AI was used.
October 14, 2026
Thank you to the author, Gia Stevens, for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
I love Hallmark movies to the point that I watched them daily when I was on maternity leave. This book was the perfect book version of a Hallmark movie for me, and I loved it!
Willa and Mason grew up in the small town of Mount Holly and have been best friends since high school. Willa owns a very successful diner, and Mason is a firefighter who has been in love with her for the past six years.
Willa is supposed to spend Christmas week at her parents’ cabin with her boyfriend and family. Her boyfriend breaks up with her before the trip, and Mason offers to step in and pretend to be her boyfriend. They arrive at the cabin together, and it doesn’t take long for their fake relationship to turn into something real.
The shift from best friends to something more felt natural and made sense given their history. Willa and Mason had great chemistry, and nothing about their relationship felt forced.
Willa’s story was another part I really enjoyed. She has always felt like the odd one out in her family. With both of her parents being doctors, they expected her to follow the same path, but she dropped out of medical school to pursue her dream of opening a diner. Despite how successful she has become, she still feels like she hasn’t lived up to their expectations.
As Willa and Mason grow closer, he supports her and helps her family see her in a new light. Watching her gain confidence in herself and the choices she’s made was one of my favourite parts of the book. At the same time, it was really nice to see her parents and family open up to Mason. It was a beautiful story.
The supporting characters were great too! Willa has a great group of best friends, and Mason’s buddies and brother at the fire hall had me laughing out loud. I really enjoyed the friendships and the small-town community.
I’ve already searched Gia’s website for news about the next book in the series but couldn’t find much. Either way, I CANNOT wait for Sloane and Simon’s story!
I love Hallmark movies to the point that I watched them daily when I was on maternity leave. This book was the perfect book version of a Hallmark movie for me, and I loved it!
Willa and Mason grew up in the small town of Mount Holly and have been best friends since high school. Willa owns a very successful diner, and Mason is a firefighter who has been in love with her for the past six years.
Willa is supposed to spend Christmas week at her parents’ cabin with her boyfriend and family. Her boyfriend breaks up with her before the trip, and Mason offers to step in and pretend to be her boyfriend. They arrive at the cabin together, and it doesn’t take long for their fake relationship to turn into something real.
The shift from best friends to something more felt natural and made sense given their history. Willa and Mason had great chemistry, and nothing about their relationship felt forced.
Willa’s story was another part I really enjoyed. She has always felt like the odd one out in her family. With both of her parents being doctors, they expected her to follow the same path, but she dropped out of medical school to pursue her dream of opening a diner. Despite how successful she has become, she still feels like she hasn’t lived up to their expectations.
As Willa and Mason grow closer, he supports her and helps her family see her in a new light. Watching her gain confidence in herself and the choices she’s made was one of my favourite parts of the book. At the same time, it was really nice to see her parents and family open up to Mason. It was a beautiful story.
The supporting characters were great too! Willa has a great group of best friends, and Mason’s buddies and brother at the fire hall had me laughing out loud. I really enjoyed the friendships and the small-town community.
I’ve already searched Gia’s website for news about the next book in the series but couldn’t find much. Either way, I CANNOT wait for Sloane and Simon’s story!
October 5, 2026
*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
Willa Montgomery and Mason Cater have been best friends for years. They are each other’s person for the good and the not so good. They are each other’s biggest cheerleaders. What Willa doesn’t know is that Mason has had feelings for her almost since the beginning. But the timing was never right. So, it makes perfect sense when Willa is dumped by her so-called Dr. Boyfriend right before a week at the family cabin for the holidays that her best friend offers to be her fake boyfriend for the week, right?
I mean, holy Christmas, seriously folks… who doesn’t love a fake relationship with a hot firefighter at the holidays? Mason takes his role as Willa’s fake boyfriend very seriously. Which is great, since Willa’s family seems to look down on her choice to run a diner, although it’s a really popular diner in Mount Holly, instead of being a doctor like the rest of the family. Mason’s attentive to Willa’s every need.
“I’m in deep with her, but no strings. That’s what she wanted.”
Or is it? I can understand not wanting to ruin their friendship, but the yearning on both sides is enough to make even the jaded amongst us (side-eyeing you, Emily!) see otherwise. Throwing in one bed and a lot of mistletoe certainly didn’t hurt. And thank goodness that Mason’s a firefighter since the sparks between him and Willa could absolutely set everything on fire. Now for both of them to come clean with each other and give their relationship a real chance.
I love being back in Mount Holly with all the characters we’ve gotten to know… Brie and Logan (Never Sleigh Never) and Sloane and Simon (story yet to come, but their enemies to lovers vibes are so strong). Willa and Mason just have to get out of their own way. You need to read this story to see if there’s some Christmas magic in store for these two or will there be coal in their stockings on Christmas morning.
Willa Montgomery and Mason Cater have been best friends for years. They are each other’s person for the good and the not so good. They are each other’s biggest cheerleaders. What Willa doesn’t know is that Mason has had feelings for her almost since the beginning. But the timing was never right. So, it makes perfect sense when Willa is dumped by her so-called Dr. Boyfriend right before a week at the family cabin for the holidays that her best friend offers to be her fake boyfriend for the week, right?
I mean, holy Christmas, seriously folks… who doesn’t love a fake relationship with a hot firefighter at the holidays? Mason takes his role as Willa’s fake boyfriend very seriously. Which is great, since Willa’s family seems to look down on her choice to run a diner, although it’s a really popular diner in Mount Holly, instead of being a doctor like the rest of the family. Mason’s attentive to Willa’s every need.
“I’m in deep with her, but no strings. That’s what she wanted.”
Or is it? I can understand not wanting to ruin their friendship, but the yearning on both sides is enough to make even the jaded amongst us (side-eyeing you, Emily!) see otherwise. Throwing in one bed and a lot of mistletoe certainly didn’t hurt. And thank goodness that Mason’s a firefighter since the sparks between him and Willa could absolutely set everything on fire. Now for both of them to come clean with each other and give their relationship a real chance.
I love being back in Mount Holly with all the characters we’ve gotten to know… Brie and Logan (Never Sleigh Never) and Sloane and Simon (story yet to come, but their enemies to lovers vibes are so strong). Willa and Mason just have to get out of their own way. You need to read this story to see if there’s some Christmas magic in store for these two or will there be coal in their stockings on Christmas morning.
October 14, 2026
This book put me in the mood for Christmas! It gave me all the warm, fuzzy feelings — family get-togethers, mistletoe kisses, staring out the window on a crisp winter night as the moon reflects off the snow, cuddling by the fire, a cup of hot chocolate smothered in whipped cream… Santa hats… a hot fireman… Oh, wait! I seem to have lost my train of thought. 😂🔥
This was a fantastic book filled with wonderful characters, exciting scenarios, laugh-out-loud moments, hilarious banter, and enough emotional angst to tear your heart apart at times. I absolutely, highly recommend it! However, please, please read the trigger warnings before diving in. This is one of those books where they are especially important.
Right from the start, this book had me laughing out loud! Our two main characters are longtime best friends who decide to fake date to help our FMC, Willa, avoid the embarrassment of facing her family at their annual Christmas cabin gathering alone. Her actual boyfriend, whom her parents absolutely adored, breaks up with her just a few weeks before the holidays. Talk about terrible timing!
And then there’s Mason. 🥹❤️
This man is the boyfriend of dreams! He’s kind, funny, talented, friendly, thoughtful, and brave. He isn’t afraid to stand up to anyone and show them just how amazing Willa is. He sees her worth, and he makes sure everyone else sees it, too.
So, what is he? An amazing best friend? Or something more? 👀❤️
You’ll have to read the book to find out!
Between the Christmas magic, the laugh-out-loud banter, the swoon-worthy moments, and the emotional gut punches, this book gave me ALL the feels. It was cozy, funny, heartfelt, and absolutely unputdownable!
Highly recommend this one, but don’t forget those trigger warnings! 🎄❤️🔥
✨ Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance reader copy (ARC) of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own and reflect my genuine reading experience. ✨
This was a fantastic book filled with wonderful characters, exciting scenarios, laugh-out-loud moments, hilarious banter, and enough emotional angst to tear your heart apart at times. I absolutely, highly recommend it! However, please, please read the trigger warnings before diving in. This is one of those books where they are especially important.
Right from the start, this book had me laughing out loud! Our two main characters are longtime best friends who decide to fake date to help our FMC, Willa, avoid the embarrassment of facing her family at their annual Christmas cabin gathering alone. Her actual boyfriend, whom her parents absolutely adored, breaks up with her just a few weeks before the holidays. Talk about terrible timing!
And then there’s Mason. 🥹❤️
This man is the boyfriend of dreams! He’s kind, funny, talented, friendly, thoughtful, and brave. He isn’t afraid to stand up to anyone and show them just how amazing Willa is. He sees her worth, and he makes sure everyone else sees it, too.
So, what is he? An amazing best friend? Or something more? 👀❤️
You’ll have to read the book to find out!
Between the Christmas magic, the laugh-out-loud banter, the swoon-worthy moments, and the emotional gut punches, this book gave me ALL the feels. It was cozy, funny, heartfelt, and absolutely unputdownable!
Highly recommend this one, but don’t forget those trigger warnings! 🎄❤️🔥
✨ Thank you to the author for providing me with an advance reader copy (ARC) of this ebook in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own and reflect my genuine reading experience. ✨
October 14, 2026
This book hooked me with a first line that had me laughing out loud! And it was on a fast track of not wanting to put it down ever since. My first read by this author, and I’m a fan! It was soo fun to read! A best friends to lovers, fake dating romance that had me laughing and kicking my feet! It was sweet, spicy, and even had some intense moments packed in. Truly a book that wrapped me up in a warm hug and had me not wanting to put it down. Definitely a book to add to your holiday TBR!
Mason and Willa are best friends and literally do everything together and know each other in and out. Except Willa has no idea Mason has been in love with her for years. Willa is a diner owner, which is a disappointment in a family full of doctors. But she’s fierce, and has a warm heart. She takes care of all the people in her little town. Mason is a firefighter and helper of all things when it comes to Willa. When she needs a date to take home for the holiday, Mason offers himself up as her fake boyfriend. He charms his way into the hearts of her family, and eventually the fake blues with real and the pull is just too strong. And it is definitely a moment I screamed and kicked my feet! These two have that natural banter, the deep rooted love for each other that carries through for the attraction they have for each other too. They are hot enough to melt ice! Their chemistry is perfection because they have that friendship base. I absolutely loved seeing them cave in and chase their true feelings. You can’t help but be their biggest fan!
And the found family aspect with Mason and the rest of the firefighters was fantastic! They rib and pick on each other like siblings would do, but when it matters most, they want the best for each other and are there through anything.
This was an ARC read for me and these are my honest opinions.
Mason and Willa are best friends and literally do everything together and know each other in and out. Except Willa has no idea Mason has been in love with her for years. Willa is a diner owner, which is a disappointment in a family full of doctors. But she’s fierce, and has a warm heart. She takes care of all the people in her little town. Mason is a firefighter and helper of all things when it comes to Willa. When she needs a date to take home for the holiday, Mason offers himself up as her fake boyfriend. He charms his way into the hearts of her family, and eventually the fake blues with real and the pull is just too strong. And it is definitely a moment I screamed and kicked my feet! These two have that natural banter, the deep rooted love for each other that carries through for the attraction they have for each other too. They are hot enough to melt ice! Their chemistry is perfection because they have that friendship base. I absolutely loved seeing them cave in and chase their true feelings. You can’t help but be their biggest fan!
And the found family aspect with Mason and the rest of the firefighters was fantastic! They rib and pick on each other like siblings would do, but when it matters most, they want the best for each other and are there through anything.
This was an ARC read for me and these are my honest opinions.
October 15, 2026
Some people weigh a person's worth on their occupation, Education and social standing. They don't see the person but only what not who they are.
Willa’s family were wealthy and judged people accordingly. Even herself they judged, after all she wasn't a doctor like all of them she was just the owner of a diner. Willa was different than her family, she had no desire to go into the medical field but follow her dreams of owning a diner. A place people loved to come to. She made people feel special not because of what they had or what they did but because of who they were. She memorized their orders and treated them with love and kindness. So different than how her family treated everyone even her. Her family treated her like she didn't measure up. They kept waiting for her to go back to medical school and finish her education and live the life they wanted her to live. They thought her owning a diner was beneath her and not good enough.
Mason is her best friend, his feelings for her go beyond friendship. He doesn't want to let her know because he is afraid to cross that line. He doesn't want to lose his best friend. But life is about taking risks and not living with what ifs. It's worth it to find that forever love you didn't think was possible. Mason and Willa are perfect together. Their facial expressions say it all when they are in the same room, they don't even realize how they look at each other but people see it. You can't fake that.
This story has so much; comedy, romance, friendship just to name a few. The relationships they have with their friends are stronger than any bond, be it family or not. Family is not by blood alone. Willa may not be accepted by her family but what she has with Mason is something she never had with them and exactly what a forever love Is all about.
Willa’s family were wealthy and judged people accordingly. Even herself they judged, after all she wasn't a doctor like all of them she was just the owner of a diner. Willa was different than her family, she had no desire to go into the medical field but follow her dreams of owning a diner. A place people loved to come to. She made people feel special not because of what they had or what they did but because of who they were. She memorized their orders and treated them with love and kindness. So different than how her family treated everyone even her. Her family treated her like she didn't measure up. They kept waiting for her to go back to medical school and finish her education and live the life they wanted her to live. They thought her owning a diner was beneath her and not good enough.
Mason is her best friend, his feelings for her go beyond friendship. He doesn't want to let her know because he is afraid to cross that line. He doesn't want to lose his best friend. But life is about taking risks and not living with what ifs. It's worth it to find that forever love you didn't think was possible. Mason and Willa are perfect together. Their facial expressions say it all when they are in the same room, they don't even realize how they look at each other but people see it. You can't fake that.
This story has so much; comedy, romance, friendship just to name a few. The relationships they have with their friends are stronger than any bond, be it family or not. Family is not by blood alone. Willa may not be accepted by her family but what she has with Mason is something she never had with them and exactly what a forever love Is all about.
October 13, 2026
Willa has been running her own business—a diner—for years now. Unfortunately, her parents just keep asking her what she’s doing with her life, trying to pressure her back into med school. Her entire family have jobs in the medical field, and she was expected to do the same.
Never mind what she actually wanted.
She also has a best friend, Mason. They’ve been besties for fifteen years. What she doesn’t know is that Mason has been in love with her for the last six of those years. And when Willa’s doctor boyfriend breaks up with her by texting, she’s furious, because her whole family was “so excited” to see him when they travel to her parents’ home for Christmas.
Naturally, Mason steps in. And things get….steamy.
I loved this story. It made me laugh, and it made me cry. Willa really has a blind spot when it comes to Mason, and she does some pretty complicated mental gymnastics to keep him firmly in the friend zone. Which doesn’t last long once they’re sleeping in the same bed at her parents’ house.
I know a bit about how Willa feels, as if she’s the wayward child because she didn’t become a doctor. And it’s clear that her parents and siblings all feel the same way. Thankfully, Mason is there to be the perfect fake boyfriend…except his feelings are very, very real.
There is a dramatic part towards the last quarter of the book, something that actually brought back memories of my father being in an industrial accident. That was a hard recovery, but he made it.
Mason and Willa are such a great couple, and I was rooting for them the whole way. The end of the book also sets up the next story, which I’m already dying to read, just from the little teaser. Long story short, great story, steamy lovin’, and a very well-earned happily ever after. So get the book!
Never mind what she actually wanted.
She also has a best friend, Mason. They’ve been besties for fifteen years. What she doesn’t know is that Mason has been in love with her for the last six of those years. And when Willa’s doctor boyfriend breaks up with her by texting, she’s furious, because her whole family was “so excited” to see him when they travel to her parents’ home for Christmas.
Naturally, Mason steps in. And things get….steamy.
I loved this story. It made me laugh, and it made me cry. Willa really has a blind spot when it comes to Mason, and she does some pretty complicated mental gymnastics to keep him firmly in the friend zone. Which doesn’t last long once they’re sleeping in the same bed at her parents’ house.
I know a bit about how Willa feels, as if she’s the wayward child because she didn’t become a doctor. And it’s clear that her parents and siblings all feel the same way. Thankfully, Mason is there to be the perfect fake boyfriend…except his feelings are very, very real.
There is a dramatic part towards the last quarter of the book, something that actually brought back memories of my father being in an industrial accident. That was a hard recovery, but he made it.
Mason and Willa are such a great couple, and I was rooting for them the whole way. The end of the book also sets up the next story, which I’m already dying to read, just from the little teaser. Long story short, great story, steamy lovin’, and a very well-earned happily ever after. So get the book!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Snow Strings Attached by @authorgiastevens
4.5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
Gia knows how to hit all the feels with her books and this one was no different. I felt so connected to Willa and her anxiety and having to deal with people judging her. The Mason steps in and as the hero in firefighter boots. He is truly prince charming. Their friendship is perfection and the meddling friends are even better.
Snow Strings Attached releases Oct 13th
TROPES
❄️ Friends to Lovers
❄️ Fake Dating
❄️ Firefighter
❄️ Pining
❄️ Only One Bed
❄️ He's Pierced
❄️ Eyes on Me
BLURB
Fake dating my firefighter best friend was supposed to solve my holiday problem—not ignite a new one.
Getting dumped in front of the entire town at the Holly Jolly Festival tree lighting was not on my Christmas bingo card. Neither was showing up to my family’s annual cabin week single… especially when my parents were expecting Dr. Perfect.
Instead… I arrive with Mason Carter.
My best friend. Mount Holly’s hottest firefighter. And the last man I should be sharing a bed with for a week.
When Mason hears about my situation, he volunteers to be my fake boyfriend—apparently rescuing damsels in distress isn’t limited to burning buildings.
Pretending to date my best friend should be easy. Smile for my parents. Cuddle next to the fire. Kiss under the mistletoe.
Except Mason doesn’t pretend halfway.
He touches me like I’m the only person that matters.
Looks at me like nothing else exists.
And kisses me like he’s been waiting years.
Waking up next to him every morning makes everything—harder.
The only thing more complicated than fake dating your best friend…
Is realizing you might actually be in love with him.
4.5/5⭐
3/5🌶️
Gia knows how to hit all the feels with her books and this one was no different. I felt so connected to Willa and her anxiety and having to deal with people judging her. The Mason steps in and as the hero in firefighter boots. He is truly prince charming. Their friendship is perfection and the meddling friends are even better.
Snow Strings Attached releases Oct 13th
TROPES
❄️ Friends to Lovers
❄️ Fake Dating
❄️ Firefighter
❄️ Pining
❄️ Only One Bed
❄️ He's Pierced
❄️ Eyes on Me
BLURB
Fake dating my firefighter best friend was supposed to solve my holiday problem—not ignite a new one.
Getting dumped in front of the entire town at the Holly Jolly Festival tree lighting was not on my Christmas bingo card. Neither was showing up to my family’s annual cabin week single… especially when my parents were expecting Dr. Perfect.
Instead… I arrive with Mason Carter.
My best friend. Mount Holly’s hottest firefighter. And the last man I should be sharing a bed with for a week.
When Mason hears about my situation, he volunteers to be my fake boyfriend—apparently rescuing damsels in distress isn’t limited to burning buildings.
Pretending to date my best friend should be easy. Smile for my parents. Cuddle next to the fire. Kiss under the mistletoe.
Except Mason doesn’t pretend halfway.
He touches me like I’m the only person that matters.
Looks at me like nothing else exists.
And kisses me like he’s been waiting years.
Waking up next to him every morning makes everything—harder.
The only thing more complicated than fake dating your best friend…
Is realizing you might actually be in love with him.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I was completely caught off guard at the start of Snow Strings Attached and couldn't help my hysterically laughing out loud moment! The situation Willa finds herself in with her best friend, Mason, kick starts this wonderfully entertaining page turner that will have you totally immersed in their lives in the small town of Mount Holly.
Mason is the sexy, charming firefighter and is best friend's with Willa, the owner of The Jolly Biscuit diner. Mason has been secretly in love with Willa for years and when an opportunity arises he proposes a fake dating arrangement, so he can spend the holidays with her and her family. The way their friendship evolves as they spend time sharing a bedroom and dealing with her family offers plenty of humor, spice, and feelings develop that they both fear will ruin their friendship. Will they take a leap of faith to explore those feelings which could lead them to what they both truly desire, an everlasting profound love or do they just remain friends?
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Brad, the adorable sheep, that provides some fun and chaos for the town residents. There is also the other firefighters, close friends and the small community that brings plenty of shenanigans and humor to this endearing story. I absolutely appreciate how Gia weaves her stories and creates such well developed characters who experience relatable situations that I felt as if I belonged to the community and was personally cheering from the sidelines.
I received an early copy and I'm sharing why voluntary opinion.
Mason is the sexy, charming firefighter and is best friend's with Willa, the owner of The Jolly Biscuit diner. Mason has been secretly in love with Willa for years and when an opportunity arises he proposes a fake dating arrangement, so he can spend the holidays with her and her family. The way their friendship evolves as they spend time sharing a bedroom and dealing with her family offers plenty of humor, spice, and feelings develop that they both fear will ruin their friendship. Will they take a leap of faith to explore those feelings which could lead them to what they both truly desire, an everlasting profound love or do they just remain friends?
I would be remiss if I didn't mention Brad, the adorable sheep, that provides some fun and chaos for the town residents. There is also the other firefighters, close friends and the small community that brings plenty of shenanigans and humor to this endearing story. I absolutely appreciate how Gia weaves her stories and creates such well developed characters who experience relatable situations that I felt as if I belonged to the community and was personally cheering from the sidelines.
I received an early copy and I'm sharing why voluntary opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love Gia’s books but this is my first Christmas book. I haven’t read the first book yet but I’m going to ☺️
This was such an amazing, cute read! I loved Willa & Mason together.
Both are best friends but Mason has been in love with Willa for six years but was too afraid to admit it, afraid of losing their friendship. Willa was just dumped over text message right before she was meant to show up at her family’s cabin for Christmas. Now she has to show up alone and face more disappointment from her parents.
However, Mason comes up with a plan. Become her fake boyfriend. Willa isn’t sure at first but decides to give it a go. It’s just fake right? No! Once at the cabin they decide on a friends with benefits or a no strings attached arrangement, only this makes Willa realise that maybe she had feelings for Mason all along.
Willa owns a diner, her own business but that isn’t enough to her parents. They are always mentioning medical school and no matter how excited Willa acted or tried to talk about her accomplishments in her job, they just brushed it aside, not even saying how proud they were. I felt so sorry for Willa. She didn’t deserve that but she had Mason there to stand up for her. At least someone did!
Once Mason gives himself a kick up the arse, him and Willa decide to be together. I think the whole town was thinking “FINALLY!” 😅
I loved their banter, how much fun they had together, the sweet moments from them both during the difficult times. And the spice… 🔥
I can’t wait for Sloane & Simon, but first I need to read about Brie & Logan! ❄️
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love Gia’s books but this is my first Christmas book. I haven’t read the first book yet but I’m going to ☺️
This was such an amazing, cute read! I loved Willa & Mason together.
Both are best friends but Mason has been in love with Willa for six years but was too afraid to admit it, afraid of losing their friendship. Willa was just dumped over text message right before she was meant to show up at her family’s cabin for Christmas. Now she has to show up alone and face more disappointment from her parents.
However, Mason comes up with a plan. Become her fake boyfriend. Willa isn’t sure at first but decides to give it a go. It’s just fake right? No! Once at the cabin they decide on a friends with benefits or a no strings attached arrangement, only this makes Willa realise that maybe she had feelings for Mason all along.
Willa owns a diner, her own business but that isn’t enough to her parents. They are always mentioning medical school and no matter how excited Willa acted or tried to talk about her accomplishments in her job, they just brushed it aside, not even saying how proud they were. I felt so sorry for Willa. She didn’t deserve that but she had Mason there to stand up for her. At least someone did!
Once Mason gives himself a kick up the arse, him and Willa decide to be together. I think the whole town was thinking “FINALLY!” 😅
I loved their banter, how much fun they had together, the sweet moments from them both during the difficult times. And the spice… 🔥
I can’t wait for Sloane & Simon, but first I need to read about Brie & Logan! ❄️
October 9, 2026
Snow Strings Attached was such a feel-good read! This book had me bouncing in my seat, cracking up, and making so many reader noises. 😂 I had such a good time with Willa and Mason, and their story left me with exactly the kind of happy feelings I want from a romance.
I really loved Willa and Mason’s journey. There was something so enjoyable about watching their relationship develop, and I found myself getting more and more invested in them as the story went on. Their dynamic gave me plenty of moments to laugh over, but there were also times when I was sitting on the edge of my seat, wondering how everything was going to play out.
Of course, there were moments when certain characters tested my patience a little, but overall, I really liked the cast of characters. I enjoyed spending time in Mount Holly, and the holiday setting made this an especially fun story to settle into. Between the humor, the romance, and all the moments that had me making reader noises, I was thoroughly entertained.
And I really loved the ending! It was such a satisfying way to wrap up Willa and Mason’s story, and I finished this one feeling incredibly happy. ❤️
Overall, Snow Strings Attached was a funny, sweet, and entertaining holiday romance that kept me smiling throughout. I loved Willa and Mason’s journey, had a blast reading their story, and am definitely looking forward to reading more from Gia Stevens!
Spice: Chapters 12, 13, 16, 20
Thank you to Gia Stevens for the opportunity to read this ARC!
I really loved Willa and Mason’s journey. There was something so enjoyable about watching their relationship develop, and I found myself getting more and more invested in them as the story went on. Their dynamic gave me plenty of moments to laugh over, but there were also times when I was sitting on the edge of my seat, wondering how everything was going to play out.
Of course, there were moments when certain characters tested my patience a little, but overall, I really liked the cast of characters. I enjoyed spending time in Mount Holly, and the holiday setting made this an especially fun story to settle into. Between the humor, the romance, and all the moments that had me making reader noises, I was thoroughly entertained.
And I really loved the ending! It was such a satisfying way to wrap up Willa and Mason’s story, and I finished this one feeling incredibly happy. ❤️
Overall, Snow Strings Attached was a funny, sweet, and entertaining holiday romance that kept me smiling throughout. I loved Willa and Mason’s journey, had a blast reading their story, and am definitely looking forward to reading more from Gia Stevens!
Spice: Chapters 12, 13, 16, 20
Thank you to Gia Stevens for the opportunity to read this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of Advance Copy Received from the Author.
A Charming & Captivating Holiday Romance!
I was hooked from page one! The opening scene had me laughing out loud, which perfectly set the tone for this fun, quick, and charming small-town Christmas rom-com.
This friends-to-lovers story follows two best friends in their 30s—a local firefighter and a successful diner owner. They dive into a fake dating arrangement because she doesn't want to face her family alone for the holidays at their cabin. The chemistry between them is electric, and you can really feel the pining and yearning from him.
The pacing flows beautifully, striking a great balance between witty banter, deep side characters (including a hilarious sheep that keeps the fire department on their toes), and just the right amount of spice. Alongside the humor, there is wonderful emotional depth. Both characters navigate their fears of risking their friendship, and she has to overcome her feelings of being inadequate when it comes to her family's expectations.
As the story climaxes, a touch of suspense had my heart in my stomach and tears in my eyes, showing the raw reality of a firefighter's life. They truly are each other’s ultimate cheerleaders. With fantastic side plots that leave you ready for the next book, this is a heartwarming, swoon-worthy festive read.
Highly recommended for: Anyone who loves small-town holiday romances, the fake dating trope, mutual pining, rom-com with spice and stories with a perfect mix of laugh-out-loud humor and emotional depth.
Thank you Gia Stevens for the eARC!
A Charming & Captivating Holiday Romance!
I was hooked from page one! The opening scene had me laughing out loud, which perfectly set the tone for this fun, quick, and charming small-town Christmas rom-com.
This friends-to-lovers story follows two best friends in their 30s—a local firefighter and a successful diner owner. They dive into a fake dating arrangement because she doesn't want to face her family alone for the holidays at their cabin. The chemistry between them is electric, and you can really feel the pining and yearning from him.
The pacing flows beautifully, striking a great balance between witty banter, deep side characters (including a hilarious sheep that keeps the fire department on their toes), and just the right amount of spice. Alongside the humor, there is wonderful emotional depth. Both characters navigate their fears of risking their friendship, and she has to overcome her feelings of being inadequate when it comes to her family's expectations.
As the story climaxes, a touch of suspense had my heart in my stomach and tears in my eyes, showing the raw reality of a firefighter's life. They truly are each other’s ultimate cheerleaders. With fantastic side plots that leave you ready for the next book, this is a heartwarming, swoon-worthy festive read.
Highly recommended for: Anyone who loves small-town holiday romances, the fake dating trope, mutual pining, rom-com with spice and stories with a perfect mix of laugh-out-loud humor and emotional depth.
Thank you Gia Stevens for the eARC!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Another Friends to Lovers book that hits just right and gives all the feels! Mason has been in love with Willa for years, but has been scared to lose his best friend if he admits his feelings to her. He only dates when she does, and it always there to help whenever she needs something. As a hot and tattooed firefighter, Mason has never had a shortage of attention, but from page 1, he gets Willa's attention for a very different reason! When Willa gets dumped right before Christmas, Mason steps in to fake date her to her family's holiday vacation. Willa has never felt appreciated by her family because she didn't conform to their plans for her profession and who she dates, so Mason will be the perfect diversion to her being dumped by her ex who her family loved.
We all need a man like Mason. He champions Willa so hard to her family, is an amazing fake boyfriend that feels all too real, spends hours watching her practice curling, and will jump in at the diner when she needs extra help. I loved watching how their friendship turned into a true and deep love and appreciation for each other.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the arc of Snow Strings Attached in exchange for an honest review. This was such a fun read which also had a few emotional moments that pulled at your heartstrings. Amazing side characters and preview for a future read that sure sounds like another winner!
We all need a man like Mason. He champions Willa so hard to her family, is an amazing fake boyfriend that feels all too real, spends hours watching her practice curling, and will jump in at the diner when she needs extra help. I loved watching how their friendship turned into a true and deep love and appreciation for each other.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for the arc of Snow Strings Attached in exchange for an honest review. This was such a fun read which also had a few emotional moments that pulled at your heartstrings. Amazing side characters and preview for a future read that sure sounds like another winner!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This book had me wishing I could pack my bags and move to a cute little Christmas town for real! From The Crooked Reindeer to the Fa La La Inn, the setting was so vividly described that I felt like I knew exactly where the story took place. I was laughing so much during the fire station scenes and I loved how the whole town seemed to know that Mason and Willa were meant to be, even when they were trying their hardest to convince themselves they were just friends. Their friendship felt so genuine and it was clear they both cared deeply about each other, even if they were terrified of ruining what they already had. Mason was an absolute dream. From offering to be Willa's fake boyfriend to constantly looking out for her and protecting her from her parents' deflections, every action showed just how much he cared. He was the sweetest friend to lover hero I've read in quite a while and I couldn't help but fall for him. I really loved watching their relationship develop and seeing them finally give in to what had been there all along - and trust me, they gave in plenty of times… Their chemistry was adorable and I found myself rooting for them from the very beginning. Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this read. My only small complaint is that I would have loved a little more time with them as an actual couple before the story ended. Hopefully they'll make a few appearances in the next book in the series!
October 5, 2026
Advanced Reader Copy From BookFunnel
I don’t think I have ever been this invested in a book that’s out of my normal reading interests.
But wow does this author have a way of pulling at your heart strings.
The tension.
The oblivion.
The yearning.
The spice.
And the family issues.
Never have I ever read a book that’s so freaking relatable.
Gia does a wonderful job at portraying two love interests who are truly meant to be, but would rather sacrifice their own feelings rather than be in a relationship and it potentially failing, especially after seeing a friends to lovers “go wrong”. But being reminded that love isn’t contagious, and while the beginning may be the same, the ending won’t, is what really got me. Because you can take the same route to get there, but the journey is entirely different.
Sarah was definitely my favorite character the way she showed up for Willa. She was definitely showing that sisterly love.
Willa and Mason are goals, and they’re endgame. I’m so glad they got their HEA. I knew they would, but I was screaming at them majority of the time because they were so blind to how the other person feels, especially Willa. If I could give them a song, it’s Oblivious by Alexa Cappeli.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I’m so glad that I was selected to be part of Gia’s arc team!
I don’t think I have ever been this invested in a book that’s out of my normal reading interests.
But wow does this author have a way of pulling at your heart strings.
The tension.
The oblivion.
The yearning.
The spice.
And the family issues.
Never have I ever read a book that’s so freaking relatable.
Gia does a wonderful job at portraying two love interests who are truly meant to be, but would rather sacrifice their own feelings rather than be in a relationship and it potentially failing, especially after seeing a friends to lovers “go wrong”. But being reminded that love isn’t contagious, and while the beginning may be the same, the ending won’t, is what really got me. Because you can take the same route to get there, but the journey is entirely different.
Sarah was definitely my favorite character the way she showed up for Willa. She was definitely showing that sisterly love.
Willa and Mason are goals, and they’re endgame. I’m so glad they got their HEA. I knew they would, but I was screaming at them majority of the time because they were so blind to how the other person feels, especially Willa. If I could give them a song, it’s Oblivious by Alexa Cappeli.
Overall, I really enjoyed this book, and I’m so glad that I was selected to be part of Gia’s arc team!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a fun, lighthearted Christmas/winter rom com. I really enjoyed the characters & how their story played out. I like her family & the dynamics, how they tease each other & hang out.
It is funny from the get go!! Our first time meeting Mason, she accidentally pulls his towel down & sees him naked...and he's pierced!! 🙃🥰😍😘
I also love the chapter headings, they are all fun & unique... Ex: Chapter 1: "Face Meet Balls" 🫠🤣🤣🤣
Willa & Mason have been best friends for a long time...but Mason has wanted to be more than friends for the past 6 years. They have great chemistry & it was fun to see them stop fighting it early on & embrace the "friends with benefits"...although that makes it complicated when they both want more, but don't know what the other wants.
I love that Mason makes sure to work all the holidays so people with families can be with them. He's a great firefighter!!
This is Book 2 of Mount Holly Christmas series, as an interconnected standalone.
The book is told in a dual 1st person POV.
Spice level: 3.5/5
*Christmas rom com
*holiday/winter rom com
*contemporary romance
*fake dating
*best friends to lovers
*he's a firefighter
*she owns & runs a diner
*friends with benefits
Thank you to the author (Gia Stevens), publisher (Victory Editing) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
It is funny from the get go!! Our first time meeting Mason, she accidentally pulls his towel down & sees him naked...and he's pierced!! 🙃🥰😍😘
I also love the chapter headings, they are all fun & unique... Ex: Chapter 1: "Face Meet Balls" 🫠🤣🤣🤣
Willa & Mason have been best friends for a long time...but Mason has wanted to be more than friends for the past 6 years. They have great chemistry & it was fun to see them stop fighting it early on & embrace the "friends with benefits"...although that makes it complicated when they both want more, but don't know what the other wants.
I love that Mason makes sure to work all the holidays so people with families can be with them. He's a great firefighter!!
This is Book 2 of Mount Holly Christmas series, as an interconnected standalone.
The book is told in a dual 1st person POV.
Spice level: 3.5/5
*Christmas rom com
*holiday/winter rom com
*contemporary romance
*fake dating
*best friends to lovers
*he's a firefighter
*she owns & runs a diner
*friends with benefits
Thank you to the author (Gia Stevens), publisher (Victory Editing) & Netgalley for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
October 17, 2026
Gia is a new to me author and after reading this delight of a book, I can’t wait to read more from her. These characters have very real relatable feelings and you just are rooting for Willa to get a win. Yes, she is a successful diner owner, but her love could be better and her parents struggle to see that she is happy living her life without being a doctor or being married to one. With all that is going on in her life, she has a constant steady stream of friendship, support, kindness from her best friend, Mason.
Mason is her rock. She is happy to have him in her life, and when push comes to shove and she needs a date for Christmas at her family’s cabin, he is all in. Why because he will do anything for, after he has been secretly in love with her for the past six years.
The first chapter of this book is titled Face Meets Balls, and it is the chapter that will have you unable to stop reading. These two are fun together, and they already know so much about each other, it’s all very comfortable. Mason is such a golden retriever, and how he shows up for her while at her parent’s cabin will warm your heart.
I kept wondering how she could not see his love for her. It’s practically written on the wall.
This is a fun rom com with so many Christmas vibes, difficult and meddling family, nosy small town, and best friends to lovers!
Mason is her rock. She is happy to have him in her life, and when push comes to shove and she needs a date for Christmas at her family’s cabin, he is all in. Why because he will do anything for, after he has been secretly in love with her for the past six years.
The first chapter of this book is titled Face Meets Balls, and it is the chapter that will have you unable to stop reading. These two are fun together, and they already know so much about each other, it’s all very comfortable. Mason is such a golden retriever, and how he shows up for her while at her parent’s cabin will warm your heart.
I kept wondering how she could not see his love for her. It’s practically written on the wall.
This is a fun rom com with so many Christmas vibes, difficult and meddling family, nosy small town, and best friends to lovers!
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
From beginning to end, I laughed, smiled, and loved every word of this enchanting, entertaining love story. Ms. Stevens has once again written a captivating friends-to-lovers, fake-dating, small-town romance that is impossible to put down. Easy to read and easy to get lost in.
Mason and Willa's story is filled with witty banter that has me laughing and feeling the chemistry between them. She's owned his heart for what seems like forever but she had no idea. When the opportunity presents itself, he jumps at the chance to be her fake date for a family vacation. She is surprised by how he reacts to her family and stands up for her to them. The wheels start to turn and she wonders if there is more to this offer to help her out after her life shatters.
I loved the way the two of them have that aha moment when the sparks ignite. Mason is the type of best friend any girl could ever wish for. He is caring, sweet and loves with his whole heart. Willa needs someone to show her that she is worth all the good in the world. To see her grow and believe that she is important and a woman who has accomplished a lot in her life.
Grab this fantastic holiday rom-com and be prepared to smile from beginning to end.
Mason and Willa's story is filled with witty banter that has me laughing and feeling the chemistry between them. She's owned his heart for what seems like forever but she had no idea. When the opportunity presents itself, he jumps at the chance to be her fake date for a family vacation. She is surprised by how he reacts to her family and stands up for her to them. The wheels start to turn and she wonders if there is more to this offer to help her out after her life shatters.
I loved the way the two of them have that aha moment when the sparks ignite. Mason is the type of best friend any girl could ever wish for. He is caring, sweet and loves with his whole heart. Willa needs someone to show her that she is worth all the good in the world. To see her grow and believe that she is important and a woman who has accomplished a lot in her life.
Grab this fantastic holiday rom-com and be prepared to smile from beginning to end.
Review of advance copy received from Author
You can never go wrong with a Gia Stevens book. Every book that I have read by her I have LOVED, and this book was no different!
This story was so freaking cute, and I absolutely loved the friends-to-lovers trope. Mason was so swoon-worthy with the way he was with Willa, but then you add in his dirty mouth and take-charge attitude?! Yeah… I was done for. 😮💨🔥
I loved watching their relationship shift from friendship into something more, and the chemistry between them was SO good. Their banter, the tension, and all those little moments between them had me smiling like an idiot while I was reading.
I also really loved the side characters! They added so much to the story, and I loved the friendships and interactions between everyone. They were the kind of side characters that actually made me want to know more about them and had me hoping we get to see more of them in future books.
Gia Stevens just has a way of writing characters that are so easy to fall in love with, and Mason and Willa were no exception. This was such a fun, sweet, spicy read and exactly the kind of romance I love.
Another Gia Stevens book added to my favorites! ❤️📚
This story was so freaking cute, and I absolutely loved the friends-to-lovers trope. Mason was so swoon-worthy with the way he was with Willa, but then you add in his dirty mouth and take-charge attitude?! Yeah… I was done for. 😮💨🔥
I loved watching their relationship shift from friendship into something more, and the chemistry between them was SO good. Their banter, the tension, and all those little moments between them had me smiling like an idiot while I was reading.
I also really loved the side characters! They added so much to the story, and I loved the friendships and interactions between everyone. They were the kind of side characters that actually made me want to know more about them and had me hoping we get to see more of them in future books.
Gia Stevens just has a way of writing characters that are so easy to fall in love with, and Mason and Willa were no exception. This was such a fun, sweet, spicy read and exactly the kind of romance I love.
Another Gia Stevens book added to my favorites! ❤️📚
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