What do you think?
Rate this book
A Manny for Christmas
My new live-in manny is many indecently hot, annoyingly competent, partial to walking around shirtless… you get the picture.
He's also my ex.
That is correct.
Which means I know exactly what he’s packing under those worn-in jeans, and he remembers precisely how to care for me when I’m sick.
What’s the problem, you might ask? He sounds perfect.
He really is.
Except for one minor detail.
He’s the ex I walked out on twelve years ago because he never, ever wanted kids.
In my defence, I’ve been desperate for childcare.
Before Max swaggered back into my life, it was all flaky ex-husband, messy kitchen, grimy (if gorgeous) kids, pre-dawn alarm calls for my job as a pastry chef… and no nanny.
This seemed like a practical solution, as long as I could ignore those loud alarm bells. He needed a place to stay for Christmas, and I needed some help.
But now the lines are blurring – and fast.
It’s bad enough that he acts like a jealous boyfriend when I go on dates, and warms me up in bed when I’m too cold to sleep, and gropes me convincingly enough to put the mean-girl mums’ noses out of joint.
But far worse, he’s bewitching my little girl and saving my son from school bullies, and we’re all falling hard.
Is he just “mannying up”? Doing his job?
Or has he changed his mind about that family he claimed never to want?
𝘈 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 is a delicious standalone romcom for the holiday season featuring second chances, a dreamboat manny, a found family, a gingerbread village, and a couple of adorable kids who’ll make him question everything. There’s enough magic to make Santa himself swoon, and 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 enough spice to make him blush.
This book was previously published with the same title under my real name, Sara Madderson. The content remains unchanged.
He's also my ex.
That is correct.
Which means I know exactly what he’s packing under those worn-in jeans, and he remembers precisely how to care for me when I’m sick.
What’s the problem, you might ask? He sounds perfect.
He really is.
Except for one minor detail.
He’s the ex I walked out on twelve years ago because he never, ever wanted kids.
In my defence, I’ve been desperate for childcare.
Before Max swaggered back into my life, it was all flaky ex-husband, messy kitchen, grimy (if gorgeous) kids, pre-dawn alarm calls for my job as a pastry chef… and no nanny.
This seemed like a practical solution, as long as I could ignore those loud alarm bells. He needed a place to stay for Christmas, and I needed some help.
But now the lines are blurring – and fast.
It’s bad enough that he acts like a jealous boyfriend when I go on dates, and warms me up in bed when I’m too cold to sleep, and gropes me convincingly enough to put the mean-girl mums’ noses out of joint.
But far worse, he’s bewitching my little girl and saving my son from school bullies, and we’re all falling hard.
Is he just “mannying up”? Doing his job?
Or has he changed his mind about that family he claimed never to want?
𝘈 𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘯𝘺 𝘧𝘰𝘳 𝘊𝘩𝘳𝘪𝘴𝘵𝘮𝘢𝘴 is a delicious standalone romcom for the holiday season featuring second chances, a dreamboat manny, a found family, a gingerbread village, and a couple of adorable kids who’ll make him question everything. There’s enough magic to make Santa himself swoon, and 𝘥𝘦𝘧𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘵𝘦𝘭𝘺 enough spice to make him blush.
This book was previously published with the same title under my real name, Sara Madderson. The content remains unchanged.
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 5, 2025
512 people are currently reading
561 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews
January 1, 2026
3.5 Stars
A well written holiday romance!
This contains the following
*Second chance at love 12 years later
*Soul mates
*Ex-boyfriend back in town and needs a place to stay
*Pastry chef divorced mom desperately needs help
*Very kid centric
*Plenty of spice
*Huge tie-in to author’s Love in London series (that I’ve not read)
Of course, I had a few niggles, but where this shines is how these two never stopped having feelings for each other despite their determined, valid, and personal life choices and convictions. Now older and supposedly wiser, they’re finally ready to move forward together. Merry Christmas!!
A well written holiday romance!
This contains the following
*Second chance at love 12 years later
*Soul mates
*Ex-boyfriend back in town and needs a place to stay
*Pastry chef divorced mom desperately needs help
*Very kid centric
*Plenty of spice
*Huge tie-in to author’s Love in London series (that I’ve not read)
Of course, I had a few niggles, but where this shines is how these two never stopped having feelings for each other despite their determined, valid, and personal life choices and convictions. Now older and supposedly wiser, they’re finally ready to move forward together. Merry Christmas!!
October 27, 2025
5🌟, 3.5 🌶️
From the very first page, I was hooked on Max, Molly, and their irresistible holiday chaos.
I have a soft spot for swoon-worthy men and kids, and Max is everything you could hope for. He is funny, caring, and completely devoted to Molly and her children. The dynamic between Max and the kids, especially fiery little Daisy and anxious Toby, is both hilarious and heartwarming, while his chemistry with Molly simmers with years of unspoken longing and second-chance love.
After twelve years apart, when Molly left Max because they disagreed about having children, they are unexpectedly reunited. Now a single mother, Molly needs help during the holidays, and Max steps in as a temporary manny. Watching him show his devotion to both the kids and Molly, from small acts of kindness to defending Toby from a bully, is absolutely heart-melting and makes him the ultimate book boyfriend.
The story is full of love, family, and redemption without unnecessary misunderstandings or drama. Elodie's writing is polished, witty, and full of emotion with just enough spice to keep it hot. This is a gorgeous story of second chances, soulmates reconnecting, and Christmas magic.
It is a book I will definitely return to every holiday season.
~~~~
Many thanks to Elodie Hart and her Team for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
From the very first page, I was hooked on Max, Molly, and their irresistible holiday chaos.
I have a soft spot for swoon-worthy men and kids, and Max is everything you could hope for. He is funny, caring, and completely devoted to Molly and her children. The dynamic between Max and the kids, especially fiery little Daisy and anxious Toby, is both hilarious and heartwarming, while his chemistry with Molly simmers with years of unspoken longing and second-chance love.
After twelve years apart, when Molly left Max because they disagreed about having children, they are unexpectedly reunited. Now a single mother, Molly needs help during the holidays, and Max steps in as a temporary manny. Watching him show his devotion to both the kids and Molly, from small acts of kindness to defending Toby from a bully, is absolutely heart-melting and makes him the ultimate book boyfriend.
The story is full of love, family, and redemption without unnecessary misunderstandings or drama. Elodie's writing is polished, witty, and full of emotion with just enough spice to keep it hot. This is a gorgeous story of second chances, soulmates reconnecting, and Christmas magic.
It is a book I will definitely return to every holiday season.
~~~~
Many thanks to Elodie Hart and her Team for providing this Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions expressed are entirely my own. ✨
October 30, 2025
This was such an heartwarming book to read!
I have a soft spot for hot men and kids! And the dynamic between Daisy and Max that first day had me cracking up.
Also the budding relationship between Max and Toby is so loving.
Max and Molly story is a single mum, second chance romance set during Christmas that will make your heart grow three sizes.
Did I mention that Max is hot and, truly to herself, Elodie made it very spicy?!?! Yes, that too.
This was the first book that Elodie published under her “Sara Madderson’ name that I got to read and it won’t be the last for sure!
Happy reading!
*Thank you so much Elodie Hart for the chance to read this as an ARC*
I have a soft spot for hot men and kids! And the dynamic between Daisy and Max that first day had me cracking up.
Also the budding relationship between Max and Toby is so loving.
Max and Molly story is a single mum, second chance romance set during Christmas that will make your heart grow three sizes.
Did I mention that Max is hot and, truly to herself, Elodie made it very spicy?!?! Yes, that too.
This was the first book that Elodie published under her “Sara Madderson’ name that I got to read and it won’t be the last for sure!
Happy reading!
*Thank you so much Elodie Hart for the chance to read this as an ARC*
October 24, 2025
*This book is being republished under Sara Madderson’s pen name, Elodie Hart*
If you’re looking for a cute, low stakes romance set around the holidays, this is perfect for you.
Tropes include:
📖 Second chance romance
📖 Close Proximity
📖 Single mom
When Molly and Max broke up twelve years ago after their position on having children differed, neither thought that life would bring them back together. But when Molly’s husband and walks away from her and their two children, and her au pair quits, fate brings them together again. Molly and Max reluctantly agree that Max can help out with the kids while he’s in town, at least through the holidays, but being back in the same space with the love of his life isn’t easy.
For those who have read Elodie’s Alchemy or Seraph series, Manny still has all of the spice that Elodie is so brilliant at writing, but it’s less taboo than some of her other works.
Max and Molly’s chemistry is immediately apparent and I was not so patiently waiting for the “f*ck it” moment where they realize that they are still head over heels for one another. And don’t even get me started on the Precious relationship between Molly’s kids and Max.
I am reviewing this as a member of Elodie Hart’s ARC team, and providing my honest thoughts.
If you’re looking for a cute, low stakes romance set around the holidays, this is perfect for you.
Tropes include:
📖 Second chance romance
📖 Close Proximity
📖 Single mom
When Molly and Max broke up twelve years ago after their position on having children differed, neither thought that life would bring them back together. But when Molly’s husband and walks away from her and their two children, and her au pair quits, fate brings them together again. Molly and Max reluctantly agree that Max can help out with the kids while he’s in town, at least through the holidays, but being back in the same space with the love of his life isn’t easy.
For those who have read Elodie’s Alchemy or Seraph series, Manny still has all of the spice that Elodie is so brilliant at writing, but it’s less taboo than some of her other works.
Max and Molly’s chemistry is immediately apparent and I was not so patiently waiting for the “f*ck it” moment where they realize that they are still head over heels for one another. And don’t even get me started on the Precious relationship between Molly’s kids and Max.
I am reviewing this as a member of Elodie Hart’s ARC team, and providing my honest thoughts.
December 17, 2025
Odd man out here but this one wasn’t for me - nothing particularly wrong, I just got bored multiple times and kinda started speed reading because it was going so slow (for me) and then other parts were too fast, it just wasn’t for me. The couple was fine, the second chance was good too, but I think this one would’ve been better as a novella.
October 23, 2025
This book is less taboo than some other Elodie Hart releases. It was previously published as written by Sara Madderson, and the content remains the same, apparently, so I am reposting my original review:
Oops, she did it again: another great story from this author. Why is she not a bigger hit? I need some answers.
What I liked about this book:
The characters. He was a NICE person... I know it's not in fashion, everyone writes bad boy heroes, manhoes and alpha jerks these days but give me a Max any day, someone who proves his love by actions every day that ends in Y.
Molly and Max used to live together but she wanted children, he didn't. Flash forward twelve years, she has married and divorced someone else, and now she is a single mother of two. Her job at the Sorrel Farm requires early mornings and she needs somebody to help with the kids. Max has spent years in Africa, building wells and that sort of thing. Now he's back in England for Christmas and mutual acquaintances suggest they could help each other out: he gets a roof over his head and she gets a temporary manny. They are both wary because their separation years earlier broke both their hearts and this time they could end up worse. But Max was never a commitment phobe or a child hater, it was mostly that he was happy with Molly and afraid of everything that could go wrong if anything changed. Now that Molly's children are there in reality, he is quite fond of them. Daisy is a four-year-old firecracker, Toby is her older brother and a ball of anxiety. Due to their past history, Molly is worried about Max leaving just as she or the kids got attached to him, and if Max wants a chance with Molly he needs to prove that he can stand up and show up, be there for them and find his paternal instincts.
Oh my and does he show up! This man is a complete dish: sexy, funny, good with children, good with Molly... He goes viral defending one of the kids. And he defrosts her car windows, without being asked. He is 99 % perfect book boyfriend, all he needs is a puppy.
The plot: The central conflict is about the two characters and what they want for their future. There are no stupid fights because of stupid misunderstandings. Third parties drama is kept to a minimum. Molly's husband has abdicated his duties, Max has no real interest in any other woman, and Molly has a brief flirtation with Not-Max but it cannot last. Why? Because he is Not-Max.
The writing style: polished, witty and full of feels.
Steam level: They have years of longing to make up for.
What I didn't like: Gonna be a short list.
Series status: This romance stands alone but if you've read the other books about the Sorrel Farm people you will find a lot of revisitation of familiar characters, and it's all good news. (Spoiler alert: They're all still hot and still happy.) If you haven't read the other books you might find some of this to be extraneous detail about minor characters.
I received a free copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
Oops, she did it again: another great story from this author. Why is she not a bigger hit? I need some answers.
What I liked about this book:
The characters. He was a NICE person... I know it's not in fashion, everyone writes bad boy heroes, manhoes and alpha jerks these days but give me a Max any day, someone who proves his love by actions every day that ends in Y.
Molly and Max used to live together but she wanted children, he didn't. Flash forward twelve years, she has married and divorced someone else, and now she is a single mother of two. Her job at the Sorrel Farm requires early mornings and she needs somebody to help with the kids. Max has spent years in Africa, building wells and that sort of thing. Now he's back in England for Christmas and mutual acquaintances suggest they could help each other out: he gets a roof over his head and she gets a temporary manny. They are both wary because their separation years earlier broke both their hearts and this time they could end up worse. But Max was never a commitment phobe or a child hater, it was mostly that he was happy with Molly and afraid of everything that could go wrong if anything changed. Now that Molly's children are there in reality, he is quite fond of them. Daisy is a four-year-old firecracker, Toby is her older brother and a ball of anxiety. Due to their past history, Molly is worried about Max leaving just as she or the kids got attached to him, and if Max wants a chance with Molly he needs to prove that he can stand up and show up, be there for them and find his paternal instincts.
Oh my and does he show up! This man is a complete dish: sexy, funny, good with children, good with Molly... He goes viral defending one of the kids. And he defrosts her car windows, without being asked. He is 99 % perfect book boyfriend, all he needs is a puppy.
The plot: The central conflict is about the two characters and what they want for their future. There are no stupid fights because of stupid misunderstandings. Third parties drama is kept to a minimum. Molly's husband has abdicated his duties, Max has no real interest in any other woman, and Molly has a brief flirtation with Not-Max but it cannot last. Why? Because he is Not-Max.
The writing style: polished, witty and full of feels.
Steam level: They have years of longing to make up for.
What I didn't like: Gonna be a short list.
Series status: This romance stands alone but if you've read the other books about the Sorrel Farm people you will find a lot of revisitation of familiar characters, and it's all good news. (Spoiler alert: They're all still hot and still happy.) If you haven't read the other books you might find some of this to be extraneous detail about minor characters.
I received a free copy of this book and this is a voluntary review.
November 4, 2025
4.5 Stars✨
3 Spices🌶️
Another thing I discovered about the second-chance trope is that it's all about fulfilling a desire that almost everyone who has ever experienced heartbreak has: to find a way to make amends with the one who got away. And to somehow change this time into the happy ending you were denied the first time. This book has portrayed that perfectly.
A Manny For Christmas is a holiday novel by Elodie Hart that explores the theme of second chances and self-discovery.
This book is appealing since it may be relevant to a lot of couples in today's world. I frequently see Max's credo about not having children among my group of acquaintances. In spite of this, life still throws them curveballs and shocks. Ultimately, they came to the realization that this was the most amazing period of their lives and that being a parent is the craziest rollercoaster you will ever experience.
Max and Molly realized in this book that their initial connection, once thought to be a simple youthful passion, has withstood the test of time. Twelve years later, not only do they rediscover each other, but they've also reconciled their past selves with the people they've become.
Max's relationship with Molly's children is touching and humorous, and it was wonderful to see how devoted he was to them. Max has become the quintessential father through open displays of his overprotectiveness and small acts of tenderness. I'm glad to see Max comprehend what he's lacking in his life, since sometimes a personal experience is necessary to shift one's viewpoint.
A Manny for Christmas is fundamentally a festive and enjoyable book that exhibits Max and Molly's love with pure magic while delivering a touching message about responsibility, personal growth, and the worth of family. A perfect read for this Holiday season.
Receiving a gratis Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Elodie Hart for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
3 Spices🌶️
Another thing I discovered about the second-chance trope is that it's all about fulfilling a desire that almost everyone who has ever experienced heartbreak has: to find a way to make amends with the one who got away. And to somehow change this time into the happy ending you were denied the first time. This book has portrayed that perfectly.
A Manny For Christmas is a holiday novel by Elodie Hart that explores the theme of second chances and self-discovery.
This book is appealing since it may be relevant to a lot of couples in today's world. I frequently see Max's credo about not having children among my group of acquaintances. In spite of this, life still throws them curveballs and shocks. Ultimately, they came to the realization that this was the most amazing period of their lives and that being a parent is the craziest rollercoaster you will ever experience.
Max and Molly realized in this book that their initial connection, once thought to be a simple youthful passion, has withstood the test of time. Twelve years later, not only do they rediscover each other, but they've also reconciled their past selves with the people they've become.
Max's relationship with Molly's children is touching and humorous, and it was wonderful to see how devoted he was to them. Max has become the quintessential father through open displays of his overprotectiveness and small acts of tenderness. I'm glad to see Max comprehend what he's lacking in his life, since sometimes a personal experience is necessary to shift one's viewpoint.
A Manny for Christmas is fundamentally a festive and enjoyable book that exhibits Max and Molly's love with pure magic while delivering a touching message about responsibility, personal growth, and the worth of family. A perfect read for this Holiday season.
Receiving a gratis Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this book was an honour, and I'm presenting my candid opinion based on my own experience. I am eternally grateful to Elodie Hart for entrusting me with reading this book beforehand.
November 1, 2025
Turn up the heat and relax into this delightful second chance love. Max and Molly had it all and more - but when he didn't want a family Molly made the tough decision to leave. When they meet again she is a struggling single mum with a childcare crisis and he pitches up at his family's luxury resort at a loose end. His brother and sister in law suggest he becomes a temp holiday 'manny' for Molly and her two children. How they deal with the situation and negotiate their way back to each other is a total delight. The kids are the icing on this tasty cake and there is much laughter and some tears on the way. A Manny For Christmas is sweet, hot, and lovely. A real Christmas (or anytime) treat. Elodie Hart knows how to combine the sweet and the heat.
December 8, 2025
I’m not the biggest fan of second chance romance, but as December is the month for all things Christmas, I thought I’d give this a try.
Molly - you were almost my hero for breaking up with Max the first time around for not wanting kids, to chase your dreams of being a mother; then navigating single parenthood when your ex made you choose between gallivanting around the world and raising the kids. BUT THEN you had the audacity to second guess leaving Max for not wanting kids… ma’am, no. No abs are worth dropping your standards for.
Max - you were a dick for being all ‘the world is populated enough’, but the clean break helped me not hate you completely. The dad display of defending the little boy from being bullied (on stage of all places!) made me melt 🫶🏼
The spice honestly got in the way of a great plot? Didn’t really need it tbh 🤷🏼♀️
Molly - you were almost my hero for breaking up with Max the first time around for not wanting kids, to chase your dreams of being a mother; then navigating single parenthood when your ex made you choose between gallivanting around the world and raising the kids. BUT THEN you had the audacity to second guess leaving Max for not wanting kids… ma’am, no. No abs are worth dropping your standards for.
Max - you were a dick for being all ‘the world is populated enough’, but the clean break helped me not hate you completely. The dad display of defending the little boy from being bullied (on stage of all places!) made me melt 🫶🏼
The spice honestly got in the way of a great plot? Didn’t really need it tbh 🤷🏼♀️
October 27, 2025
I love a well written second chance love story and this is definitely it. Max never wanted kids and Molly did. Obviously this was a deal breaker. she got her beautiful kids and Max ends up being their temporary Manny. it's obvious he's not remotely over her when he sees her. I love the depiction of real family life and children who actually behave like children.
December 30, 2025
Literally her hair was its own character in this book. Like to an annoying point. Max going into full on Papa Bear was great. I do wish there had actually been a conflict but it was cute and Christmasy.
December 4, 2025
Cute second chance romance
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed the story and the characters. There's something about a rekindled love that makes me so happy.
This was a cute story. I really enjoyed the story and the characters. There's something about a rekindled love that makes me so happy.
Read
December 8, 2025DNF after 20%
December 8, 2025
Cozy read for the holiday. British writing which is great but sometimes can take a moment to read through. Second chance romance and family.
December 23, 2025
Absolutely loved this book! Great story, great smut, just a perfect little Xmas romance
December 3, 2025
Christmas perfection 🤶🏼🎅🏼🎄
October 24, 2025
I loved this book. I’m a fan of Elodie Hart’s writing & I love Christmas romances so I was excited to read this gorgeous Christmassy story.
The main characters are Max & Molly; they met sixteen years ago, & were together for 4 years. They were soulmates. Molly wanted to be a mother more than anything but Max didn’t want children so she left him. It was the hardest thing she’d ever done. Twelve years later they meet again. Molly’s subsequent marriage to Felix had ended acrimoniously, leaving her a single mum to Toby & Daisy. Angus, Max’s brother, helped Molly find her current home & her job as pastry chef in the restaurant at Sorrel Farm. When Max returns from working overseas he is unable to stay with his brother; however, Angus knows Molly urgently needs help with childcare & suggests that Max helps her out. It’s awkward, but Molly & Max agree to the arrangement - she is desperate for the help, & Max is keen to reconnect with her. Max moves into Molly’s spare room, & begins his childcare duties, throwing himself into it & surprising himself with how much he likes the children. He’s so good with Toby & Daisy; it’s endearing, & a weight off Molly’s mind. But Max is also good at taking care of Molly, cooking, getting up early to scrape ice off her car, running baths in the evenings…. Max & Molly have mixed feelings about this arrangement, but it’s like those intervening years didn’t happen, the old connection is still there, everything about each other is still so familiar. It’s a tense & confusing time between them from the start; the tension quickly ramps up and it’s so hard to keep their hands off each other! Molly loves her children more than anything, but she loves Max more than ever & is torn - she left him because he adamantly didn’t want children, could he really change? And could she trust him if he said he’d changed his mind? Max knew he had to prove to Molly that he understood the children had to come first, which he did with bells on - especially when he defended Toby from the class bully - to a mother there’s nothing hotter #hotdadrant !!
I loved everything about this book, the characters, the setting, & the story which plays out in the context of Christmas preparations a magical time of year. It was lovely to meet up with some old friends from other books in the series. The children were great characters, Toby sometimes overshadowed by his noisy little sister Daisy, but growing in confidence with Max’s encouragement. It’s a gorgeous Christmas story of love & redemption & second chances, & will definitely be going on my list of Christmas books for future reading.
The main characters are Max & Molly; they met sixteen years ago, & were together for 4 years. They were soulmates. Molly wanted to be a mother more than anything but Max didn’t want children so she left him. It was the hardest thing she’d ever done. Twelve years later they meet again. Molly’s subsequent marriage to Felix had ended acrimoniously, leaving her a single mum to Toby & Daisy. Angus, Max’s brother, helped Molly find her current home & her job as pastry chef in the restaurant at Sorrel Farm. When Max returns from working overseas he is unable to stay with his brother; however, Angus knows Molly urgently needs help with childcare & suggests that Max helps her out. It’s awkward, but Molly & Max agree to the arrangement - she is desperate for the help, & Max is keen to reconnect with her. Max moves into Molly’s spare room, & begins his childcare duties, throwing himself into it & surprising himself with how much he likes the children. He’s so good with Toby & Daisy; it’s endearing, & a weight off Molly’s mind. But Max is also good at taking care of Molly, cooking, getting up early to scrape ice off her car, running baths in the evenings…. Max & Molly have mixed feelings about this arrangement, but it’s like those intervening years didn’t happen, the old connection is still there, everything about each other is still so familiar. It’s a tense & confusing time between them from the start; the tension quickly ramps up and it’s so hard to keep their hands off each other! Molly loves her children more than anything, but she loves Max more than ever & is torn - she left him because he adamantly didn’t want children, could he really change? And could she trust him if he said he’d changed his mind? Max knew he had to prove to Molly that he understood the children had to come first, which he did with bells on - especially when he defended Toby from the class bully - to a mother there’s nothing hotter #hotdadrant !!
I loved everything about this book, the characters, the setting, & the story which plays out in the context of Christmas preparations a magical time of year. It was lovely to meet up with some old friends from other books in the series. The children were great characters, Toby sometimes overshadowed by his noisy little sister Daisy, but growing in confidence with Max’s encouragement. It’s a gorgeous Christmas story of love & redemption & second chances, & will definitely be going on my list of Christmas books for future reading.
November 4, 2025
A Manny for Christmas is a heartwarming, spicy, and beautifully written second-chance holiday romance that I absolutely couldn’t put down. Elodie Hart delivers everything I adore in a festive rom-com: emotion, humor, genuine characters, and a story that feels both comforting and deeply real.
Molly and Max were together for four years before parting ways over a decade ago—she wanted children, and he didn’t. When they unexpectedly reunite twelve years later, both have changed. Molly is newly divorced with two kids, and Max, back in England for Christmas, needs a place to stay. Thanks to a little matchmaking from Max’s brother, he ends up as a temporary “manny” for Molly’s children—and that’s where the magic begins.
Max is such a wonderful hero—kind, grounded, and quietly alpha without being overbearing. Molly is a relatable, strong single mother who’s doing her best to balance her own heart with her kids’ needs. I fell in love with all four of them. The children are written so authentically, full of personality and heart, which makes their family dynamic feel real and warm. There’s such tenderness in the way Molly and Max’s connection reignites—never forced or overly dramatic, just authentic and heartfelt.
What truly elevates this story is Hart’s gift for character development. Max is an absolute gem: sexy, patient, and caring without ever overstepping. Molly, as a mother, is wonderfully relatable—strong, loving, and determined to keep her kids at the center of her world even when her heart begins to hope again. The children bring humor and depth to every scene, making this feel like a true found-family romance.
I love that there’s no unnecessary drama or contrived miscommunication—just genuine emotion, growth, and chemistry that leaps off the page. When Max proves his love not only for Molly but also for her children, it’s truly moving.
The book sparkles with festive charm—cozy farm life, delicious food, and Hart’s trademark banter. And yes, the spice is spicin’—beautifully written, tender, and full of connection. A Manny for Christmas is a charming, heartfelt, and sexy read that’s perfect for anyone who loves second-chance romances, holiday stories, and the nanny/boss trope with a twist.
Thank you to Elodie Hart for this ARC. This is my honest review.
Molly and Max were together for four years before parting ways over a decade ago—she wanted children, and he didn’t. When they unexpectedly reunite twelve years later, both have changed. Molly is newly divorced with two kids, and Max, back in England for Christmas, needs a place to stay. Thanks to a little matchmaking from Max’s brother, he ends up as a temporary “manny” for Molly’s children—and that’s where the magic begins.
Max is such a wonderful hero—kind, grounded, and quietly alpha without being overbearing. Molly is a relatable, strong single mother who’s doing her best to balance her own heart with her kids’ needs. I fell in love with all four of them. The children are written so authentically, full of personality and heart, which makes their family dynamic feel real and warm. There’s such tenderness in the way Molly and Max’s connection reignites—never forced or overly dramatic, just authentic and heartfelt.
What truly elevates this story is Hart’s gift for character development. Max is an absolute gem: sexy, patient, and caring without ever overstepping. Molly, as a mother, is wonderfully relatable—strong, loving, and determined to keep her kids at the center of her world even when her heart begins to hope again. The children bring humor and depth to every scene, making this feel like a true found-family romance.
I love that there’s no unnecessary drama or contrived miscommunication—just genuine emotion, growth, and chemistry that leaps off the page. When Max proves his love not only for Molly but also for her children, it’s truly moving.
The book sparkles with festive charm—cozy farm life, delicious food, and Hart’s trademark banter. And yes, the spice is spicin’—beautifully written, tender, and full of connection. A Manny for Christmas is a charming, heartfelt, and sexy read that’s perfect for anyone who loves second-chance romances, holiday stories, and the nanny/boss trope with a twist.
Thank you to Elodie Hart for this ARC. This is my honest review.
November 5, 2025
A Manny for Christmas by Elodie Hart has become a new holiday tradition for me – it does such a fantastic job at helping me get into the spirit of the season! A spicy, second chance romance, this book is honestly just perfect. You have a single mom, Molly, who’s just doing her best to get through day-to-day life with her two young kids and her demanding job as a baker at a local resort. And when the nanny that she relied on so much isn’t available, she’ll pretty much take anyone who offers to help. Even if that person is the man she once thought she’d spend her life with.
Max is someone who’s extremely capable and very good at taking care of others, and has been doing so as part of a charitable organization in remote parts of the world for a very long time, but he decided it might be time to come back home to England. It’s while he’s visiting his brother at the resort he and his wife run that he encounters the woman who might still have his heart in her keeping. And while he’s not excited about the idea of helping her out with the kids she had with another man, Max can see Molly desperately needs help. So he steps in to help and ends up becoming a fixture in her life once again, this time with the addition of two adorable kids who bring to life emotions he never thought he’d have. Ever.
Honestly, this book is such a joy to read any time of the year, but it definitely hits well in the Christmas season. I challenge anyone NOT to want to build a gingerbread village after reading about Molly’s. And even though this is clearly a rom-com set during Christmas time, it deals with issues that are far more profound and HUMAN than most rom-coms. Truly, the reality of what broke this couple apart in the past nearly broke my heart, not because there was a giant misunderstanding, or that one was so clearly in the wrong, but because both were right. And they actually TALK about what went wrong like actual adults and it was so nice to read and for it NOT to be immediately smoothed over. There are lots of bumps along the way to Max’s and Molly’s HEA, but there was nothing earth-shattering and it was just so beautifully done. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a well-written rom-com that has the aura of a Hallmark Movie, but the soul of a Nancy Meyer movie.
Max is someone who’s extremely capable and very good at taking care of others, and has been doing so as part of a charitable organization in remote parts of the world for a very long time, but he decided it might be time to come back home to England. It’s while he’s visiting his brother at the resort he and his wife run that he encounters the woman who might still have his heart in her keeping. And while he’s not excited about the idea of helping her out with the kids she had with another man, Max can see Molly desperately needs help. So he steps in to help and ends up becoming a fixture in her life once again, this time with the addition of two adorable kids who bring to life emotions he never thought he’d have. Ever.
Honestly, this book is such a joy to read any time of the year, but it definitely hits well in the Christmas season. I challenge anyone NOT to want to build a gingerbread village after reading about Molly’s. And even though this is clearly a rom-com set during Christmas time, it deals with issues that are far more profound and HUMAN than most rom-coms. Truly, the reality of what broke this couple apart in the past nearly broke my heart, not because there was a giant misunderstanding, or that one was so clearly in the wrong, but because both were right. And they actually TALK about what went wrong like actual adults and it was so nice to read and for it NOT to be immediately smoothed over. There are lots of bumps along the way to Max’s and Molly’s HEA, but there was nothing earth-shattering and it was just so beautifully done. I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a well-written rom-com that has the aura of a Hallmark Movie, but the soul of a Nancy Meyer movie.
November 13, 2025
This was my first book by the author, and since I love second chances and holiday romances, I decided to give it a try. The story was interesting from the start, and it was nice to read Max and Molly’s interactions after not seeing each other for twelve years.
Molly and Max were a happy couple in the past, but they went their separate ways after realizing Molly wanted kids and Max didn’t. Twelve years later, Molly was a single mom to Toby and Daisy, working as a pastry chef at Max’s brother’s resort. She needed a nanny since her job was very demanding in the mornings, but she never imagined what was in store for her next.
Max decided to visit his brother for the holidays, but since his house was being renovated, he had to stay at the resort. His brother mentioned that Molly was working there and living on the farm, and that she needed help with her kids. Both Molly and Max were hesitant about the situation, but it was the perfect solution for both of them while Max stayed there.
Things were awkward at first, but even after all those years apart, it was obvious their attraction and love for each other were still there. It was fun to read how Max wrestled with the kids in the morning, especially Daisy and her wild attitude. Toby was an anxious but quiet boy, and I loved his moments with Max, as well as how protective Max became of him. Max got jealous when Molly went on a date, but he knew they were at different stages in life. Still, he wanted to make her life better and show her he could be the man she needed.
I loved how they finally acted on their pent-up tension, and how Max didn’t hesitate to show Molly that what they had was real. They shared some steamy scenes, but also many sweet ones, and it was nice to read how Max started getting close to the kids and enjoying the time they spent together. I loved reading about how Molly and Max confessed their love for each other, opened up about their fears, and how Max was certain he wanted a future with her and the kids.
It was heartwarming to read how Max protected Toby and how Molly knew Max would do anything for her and the kids. I loved how they were honest with the kids about their relationship and how they finally got the happy ending they deserved.
Molly and Max were a happy couple in the past, but they went their separate ways after realizing Molly wanted kids and Max didn’t. Twelve years later, Molly was a single mom to Toby and Daisy, working as a pastry chef at Max’s brother’s resort. She needed a nanny since her job was very demanding in the mornings, but she never imagined what was in store for her next.
Max decided to visit his brother for the holidays, but since his house was being renovated, he had to stay at the resort. His brother mentioned that Molly was working there and living on the farm, and that she needed help with her kids. Both Molly and Max were hesitant about the situation, but it was the perfect solution for both of them while Max stayed there.
Things were awkward at first, but even after all those years apart, it was obvious their attraction and love for each other were still there. It was fun to read how Max wrestled with the kids in the morning, especially Daisy and her wild attitude. Toby was an anxious but quiet boy, and I loved his moments with Max, as well as how protective Max became of him. Max got jealous when Molly went on a date, but he knew they were at different stages in life. Still, he wanted to make her life better and show her he could be the man she needed.
I loved how they finally acted on their pent-up tension, and how Max didn’t hesitate to show Molly that what they had was real. They shared some steamy scenes, but also many sweet ones, and it was nice to read how Max started getting close to the kids and enjoying the time they spent together. I loved reading about how Molly and Max confessed their love for each other, opened up about their fears, and how Max was certain he wanted a future with her and the kids.
It was heartwarming to read how Max protected Toby and how Molly knew Max would do anything for her and the kids. I loved how they were honest with the kids about their relationship and how they finally got the happy ending they deserved.
October 26, 2025
Who doesn’t love a second chance romance?
At the start of this book, we get a glimpse of Molly & Max’s life - & all seems absolutely perfect.
But Max is adamant he doesn’t want children; which is a massive dealbreaker for Molly. So much so, she walks away from their perfectly happy relationship to pursue her dreams of becoming a mother. Max disappears to Africa, bringing water to remote communities, & Molly gets married & has two children.
12 years on, & unfortunately for Molly, life isn’t all roses. After her divorce, she moves into a cottage at Sorrel Farm with Toby & Daisy & works as a pastry chef.
When Max returns from Africa hoping to stay at his brother’s home, he discovers his brother is currently renovating & staying at Sorrel Farm - where he & his wife are helping create a biodynamic farm.
Neither Max or Molly are aware that either of them are at the Farm, so when Angus suggests Max becomes Molly’s manny, the shock that they are in the same place at the same time is understandable. But Angus isn’t done with his meddling. After speaking to Molly & convincing her to give it a go, Max & Molly come face to face after years of separation.
The sexual tension between them both is electric. Neither of them have forgotten how they made each other feel. Molly is clearly guarded, after all, this man didn’t want children of his own & is now here to look after hers?
What follows is an awkward dance of trying to ignore feelings until neither of them are able to hold back - & wow! Elodie once again knows how to write a spicy scene! Given this is a rebranding from Sara Madderson to Elodie Hart, this is somewhat more reserved than her Alchemy & Seraph series but it’s still hot!
Now, with feelings unleashed, is Max able to prove himself not only to Molly, but to her children.
We are treated to lots of cameos from the characters of the Love in London series, which this book is set after & it helps with bringing the side characters to life.
This is another brilliant book from Sara/Elodie.
At the start of this book, we get a glimpse of Molly & Max’s life - & all seems absolutely perfect.
But Max is adamant he doesn’t want children; which is a massive dealbreaker for Molly. So much so, she walks away from their perfectly happy relationship to pursue her dreams of becoming a mother. Max disappears to Africa, bringing water to remote communities, & Molly gets married & has two children.
12 years on, & unfortunately for Molly, life isn’t all roses. After her divorce, she moves into a cottage at Sorrel Farm with Toby & Daisy & works as a pastry chef.
When Max returns from Africa hoping to stay at his brother’s home, he discovers his brother is currently renovating & staying at Sorrel Farm - where he & his wife are helping create a biodynamic farm.
Neither Max or Molly are aware that either of them are at the Farm, so when Angus suggests Max becomes Molly’s manny, the shock that they are in the same place at the same time is understandable. But Angus isn’t done with his meddling. After speaking to Molly & convincing her to give it a go, Max & Molly come face to face after years of separation.
The sexual tension between them both is electric. Neither of them have forgotten how they made each other feel. Molly is clearly guarded, after all, this man didn’t want children of his own & is now here to look after hers?
What follows is an awkward dance of trying to ignore feelings until neither of them are able to hold back - & wow! Elodie once again knows how to write a spicy scene! Given this is a rebranding from Sara Madderson to Elodie Hart, this is somewhat more reserved than her Alchemy & Seraph series but it’s still hot!
Now, with feelings unleashed, is Max able to prove himself not only to Molly, but to her children.
We are treated to lots of cameos from the characters of the Love in London series, which this book is set after & it helps with bringing the side characters to life.
This is another brilliant book from Sara/Elodie.
October 26, 2025
A Manny for Christmas is a holiday standalone romance by Elodie Hart (previously published as Sara Madderson), centering on themes of second chances, found family, and festive cheer. The story follows single mother Molly, a pastry chef at Sorrel Farm, as she faces her first Christmas after her divorce. Molly is overwhelmed as she tries to manage her job and care for her two children, Toby and Daisy, after her nanny quits right before Christmas.
Max—Molly’s ex-boyfriend from before she got married—surprises his brother Angus with a holiday visit after several years of working abroad. Because they’re having renovations made to their home, Angus doesn’t have enough room for Max to stay with them at their temporary cottage. So, he comes up with the bright idea for Max to move in the spare room at Molly’s house to solve both her childcare dilemma and Max’s lack of accommodation. Note: Max and Molly broke up because he didn’t want children. Both Max and Molly are against this idea, but desperate times call for desperate measures, and Max becomes her live-in manny. Things are obviously awkward between them, and with Max’s unresolved feelings and regret over their break-up resurfacing in their forced proximity, the tension is there. Toby and Daisy also struggle a bit with the upheaval of the family dynamic they’ve become used to.
As Max proves himself to Molly and her kids, he discovers a paternal side he never expected, while Molly struggles to protect her heart and children from further disappointment. Their rekindled romance unfolds amid family tension, gingerbread villages, cozy banter, and heartwarming holiday chaos, leading both Molly and Max to reckon with what—and who—they want in their future. I love how the family you think you want when you’re young and in love, isn’t necessarily the one you get. Sometimes you get something so much better. This story pulls at your heart, and other parts. Great story and plenty of steam to get you through the cold and snowy season.
Max—Molly’s ex-boyfriend from before she got married—surprises his brother Angus with a holiday visit after several years of working abroad. Because they’re having renovations made to their home, Angus doesn’t have enough room for Max to stay with them at their temporary cottage. So, he comes up with the bright idea for Max to move in the spare room at Molly’s house to solve both her childcare dilemma and Max’s lack of accommodation. Note: Max and Molly broke up because he didn’t want children. Both Max and Molly are against this idea, but desperate times call for desperate measures, and Max becomes her live-in manny. Things are obviously awkward between them, and with Max’s unresolved feelings and regret over their break-up resurfacing in their forced proximity, the tension is there. Toby and Daisy also struggle a bit with the upheaval of the family dynamic they’ve become used to.
As Max proves himself to Molly and her kids, he discovers a paternal side he never expected, while Molly struggles to protect her heart and children from further disappointment. Their rekindled romance unfolds amid family tension, gingerbread villages, cozy banter, and heartwarming holiday chaos, leading both Molly and Max to reckon with what—and who—they want in their future. I love how the family you think you want when you’re young and in love, isn’t necessarily the one you get. Sometimes you get something so much better. This story pulls at your heart, and other parts. Great story and plenty of steam to get you through the cold and snowy season.
October 23, 2025
"A Manny for Christmas" is a delightful read for anyone who's a fan of holiday reads, second chance romances and/or the nanny/boss trope (with a twist).
The book opens with a scene of Max and Molly in the past before jumping into the present day. Max and Molly loved each other with all their hearts, but Molly truly yearned for children while Max did not. The disconnect became a dealbreaker, and the two went their separate ways.
In the present day, Max is a globetrotter with an altruistic side but feels as if something's missing. Molly is a baker on a working organic farm compound, where she also lives. The youngest of three brothers, Max visits his middle brother, Angus, during the Christmas holidays at this same farm. Unfortunately, there's not enough beds, but Angus has a solution: have Max act as a short-term manny for Molly's two young children after her current nanny leaves.
At first, both Max and Molly balk but quickly realize that it's their only respective option. As the story progresses, we see that Max quickly adapts to being a manny and grows to love the children. He also discovers what's missing: a life with Molly. Molly is reluctant to believe in such a change. Not only must she again protect her heart from Max, but she has children to consider as well.
Elodie Hart writes a second-chance story well. Her characters are well-rounded but flawed. They have real-life challenges and must find a way to resolve them and grow as individuals before growing as a couple. The scenes are descriptive and there's no repetition. While "Manny" is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I plan to go back and read the other books in the series as the secondary characters add to the overall enjoyment of "A Manny for Christmas".
The book opens with a scene of Max and Molly in the past before jumping into the present day. Max and Molly loved each other with all their hearts, but Molly truly yearned for children while Max did not. The disconnect became a dealbreaker, and the two went their separate ways.
In the present day, Max is a globetrotter with an altruistic side but feels as if something's missing. Molly is a baker on a working organic farm compound, where she also lives. The youngest of three brothers, Max visits his middle brother, Angus, during the Christmas holidays at this same farm. Unfortunately, there's not enough beds, but Angus has a solution: have Max act as a short-term manny for Molly's two young children after her current nanny leaves.
At first, both Max and Molly balk but quickly realize that it's their only respective option. As the story progresses, we see that Max quickly adapts to being a manny and grows to love the children. He also discovers what's missing: a life with Molly. Molly is reluctant to believe in such a change. Not only must she again protect her heart from Max, but she has children to consider as well.
Elodie Hart writes a second-chance story well. Her characters are well-rounded but flawed. They have real-life challenges and must find a way to resolve them and grow as individuals before growing as a couple. The scenes are descriptive and there's no repetition. While "Manny" is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. I plan to go back and read the other books in the series as the secondary characters add to the overall enjoyment of "A Manny for Christmas".
January 20, 2026
Another book of Elodies that I stumbled upon as an ad on instagram, and another one I devoured in 24 hours. Maybe it’s the Christmas theme or British scene, I have no clue. I just find myself wanting to read more of her books. It was a perfect palette cleanse after reading a rather dark romance. I loved the second chance romance , forced proximity and it was a spin on the single dad nanny
I absolutely fell in love with max the minute we met him, and it just grew and grew. How attentive he became within just a day of helping Molly out. Daisy really gave him a run for his money at first, then just because his biggest fan. The way he loved the kids without even knowing it pulls on any woman’s ovaries. The fact that he never stopped loving her and just seeing her he was like nope, not letting her go, what can I do to keep her forever. And he did!!!
Molly made the ultimate sacrifice when she was with max, leaving the love of her life to be a mother. She has two cute as can be kids, who are polar opposites, but she got her dream. It’s a shame her husband fucked off and chose his career, but that’s what I think I loved about this story, how real and relatable it was to people’s lives. Because people do just leave full on relationships, families and don’t fucking look back or care what they destroyed, then there’s people who have to pick up the pieces. I also adored her personality and how relatable she was. From the goin feral over max and his actions, for praying he would walk around shirtless, the countless times her ovaries did backflips, then the rewarding him with a blow job. I mean, she’s us man!!
I absolutely fell in love with max the minute we met him, and it just grew and grew. How attentive he became within just a day of helping Molly out. Daisy really gave him a run for his money at first, then just because his biggest fan. The way he loved the kids without even knowing it pulls on any woman’s ovaries. The fact that he never stopped loving her and just seeing her he was like nope, not letting her go, what can I do to keep her forever. And he did!!!
Molly made the ultimate sacrifice when she was with max, leaving the love of her life to be a mother. She has two cute as can be kids, who are polar opposites, but she got her dream. It’s a shame her husband fucked off and chose his career, but that’s what I think I loved about this story, how real and relatable it was to people’s lives. Because people do just leave full on relationships, families and don’t fucking look back or care what they destroyed, then there’s people who have to pick up the pieces. I also adored her personality and how relatable she was. From the goin feral over max and his actions, for praying he would walk around shirtless, the countless times her ovaries did backflips, then the rewarding him with a blow job. I mean, she’s us man!!
November 5, 2025
Max & Molly are everything! I swear every book I read from Elodie (Sara) is flipping magic! I just adore these two. They were perfect together the first go but ultimately ended their relationship when Molly wants kids and Max absolutely doesn’t. Now, twelve years later, Molly is divorced and single parenting her two kiddos while working as the pastry chef at Sorrel Farm. Max is visiting his big brother Angus who co-owns/runs Sorrel Farm for six weeks around the Christmas holidays on break from his work with WaterAid in Malawi. Molly needs a nanny for the kids as her au pair is departing g without much notice. Angus has the perfect solution: let Max be the manny for the six weeks he’s visiting the UK, surely he and Molly are adult enough to be cordial and he gets a place to stay while she gets help with her kids. Both Mac and Molly are I initially against it but then concede it would work. Sparks immediately fly but they hold out as long as they can before giving in, Molly not holding out hope for anything past a fling since he was so anti-kids. But as they continue to reacquaint themselves with each other spicily & sweetly they both start to realize they never stopped loving each other & Max realizes he’s fallen for her two kiddos. They get the HEA after twelve years apart and it is so sweet and well earned. I loved their whole story and how much they both looked out for Tobey & Daisy, it was perfect!
November 3, 2025
ARC Review
"A Manny for Christmas"
by Elodie Hart
Tropes:
🎅🏻 Christmas
🎄 Holiday Romance
❤️ Second Chances
🧡 Found Family
💜 Single Mum
This is the story of Molly and Max, along with little Daisy and beautiful boy Toby.
A perfect Christmas second chance romance.
Molly and Max have this amazing early 20's romance. And although Molly knows she wants to be a mother, Max truly believes he doesn't want children, so their worlds separate after 5 years together.
Fast forward to 12 years later.
Molly has now her so desired 2 children but her marriage is over.
Max was working for an ONG in Africa and is back for a few weeks.
As soon as they lay eyes on each other... well, they realize their love was never over, only their life goals were different back then.
Max ends up being Molly's children temporary manny (a male nanny, huhu) and living in their home, while he gains Molly back by showing up with love for her kids.
Their chemistry together is still off the charts. Elodie is the queen of the spicy intimate and beautifully written scenes.
And they get their deserved HEA while living the most magical Christmas of their lives.
I loved too many quotes; my favorite might be: ´I stare at her like a lost, stranded man might stare at the North Star´
Thank you to the author for another loving ARC.
"A Manny for Christmas"
by Elodie Hart
Tropes:
🎅🏻 Christmas
🎄 Holiday Romance
❤️ Second Chances
🧡 Found Family
💜 Single Mum
This is the story of Molly and Max, along with little Daisy and beautiful boy Toby.
A perfect Christmas second chance romance.
Molly and Max have this amazing early 20's romance. And although Molly knows she wants to be a mother, Max truly believes he doesn't want children, so their worlds separate after 5 years together.
Fast forward to 12 years later.
Molly has now her so desired 2 children but her marriage is over.
Max was working for an ONG in Africa and is back for a few weeks.
As soon as they lay eyes on each other... well, they realize their love was never over, only their life goals were different back then.
Max ends up being Molly's children temporary manny (a male nanny, huhu) and living in their home, while he gains Molly back by showing up with love for her kids.
Their chemistry together is still off the charts. Elodie is the queen of the spicy intimate and beautifully written scenes.
And they get their deserved HEA while living the most magical Christmas of their lives.
I loved too many quotes; my favorite might be: ´I stare at her like a lost, stranded man might stare at the North Star´
Thank you to the author for another loving ARC.
November 4, 2025
4⭐️ 4🌶️
Tropes-
Found family
Second chance romance
Single mom
Holiday romance
This second-chance romance was exactly that—a heartfelt, cozy, and fun story that’s perfect to read heading into the holiday season. I devoured it in just two days and still wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Max and Molly. Their reunion felt so genuine and refreshing—the decision to give their love another chance came naturally, without any forced drama or miscommunication, which I absolutely loved.
The chemistry between Max and Molly jumps off the page—their connection feels effortless, tender, and full of spark. And let’s be honest, the spice was everything! Elodie truly is the queen of spice, balancing heat with heart in the best way.
The dynamic between Max, Toby, and Dazy completely melted my heart. Any story where the man falls for the kids too is instantly swoon-worthy, and this one hit all the right notes.
I also loved how Elodie seamlessly wove in characters from her other books—it made the story feel like coming home to familiar friends and left me wanting to reread them all.
This one has officially earned a spot on my yearly holiday reread list. It’s the perfect blend of romance, warmth, and festive cheer.
Thank you to Elodie Hart and her team for letting me be apart of another ARC.
Tropes-
Found family
Second chance romance
Single mom
Holiday romance
This second-chance romance was exactly that—a heartfelt, cozy, and fun story that’s perfect to read heading into the holiday season. I devoured it in just two days and still wasn’t ready to say goodbye to Max and Molly. Their reunion felt so genuine and refreshing—the decision to give their love another chance came naturally, without any forced drama or miscommunication, which I absolutely loved.
The chemistry between Max and Molly jumps off the page—their connection feels effortless, tender, and full of spark. And let’s be honest, the spice was everything! Elodie truly is the queen of spice, balancing heat with heart in the best way.
The dynamic between Max, Toby, and Dazy completely melted my heart. Any story where the man falls for the kids too is instantly swoon-worthy, and this one hit all the right notes.
I also loved how Elodie seamlessly wove in characters from her other books—it made the story feel like coming home to familiar friends and left me wanting to reread them all.
This one has officially earned a spot on my yearly holiday reread list. It’s the perfect blend of romance, warmth, and festive cheer.
Thank you to Elodie Hart and her team for letting me be apart of another ARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2025
Since Sara is moving this over to and Elodie title, I was given an ARC-ish copy in return for my honest opinion.
And honestly, this was too damn cute. So very Hallmark-y (but with the good goods, ya know what I mean? 😉). So festive. And since I’ve read a few of the books with Sorel Farms in it, I can picture it PERFECTLY!!! And I wanna go!
Max is goals. Like actual. He was so sweet and giving that hella daddy energy, and I was so here for it. His hesitations about having kids? I totally get it! Like those are all valid things that one worries about before having kids, but you just jump in and send up a prayer that you don’t fuck up too bad. He really does an amazing job embracing the ups and downs that come with having kids. And also being SO SUPPORTIVE of Molly and helping take care of her and make sure she knows how much she’s loved. Gahhh he was just amazing.
Since I read this one my phone, I was so confused when I got to the epilogue because ummm I wanted so much more!! That couldn’t be the end! But damn what a way to end with Max going totally papa bear on everyone. I ate that UP!!
As always, Sara did not disappoint with the spice. She does it so well and it always is so enjoyable to read. This was no exception.
Seriously if Hallmark came out and made this movie, I would be SO HERE FOR ITTT!!!! I want it so bad 😩
And honestly, this was too damn cute. So very Hallmark-y (but with the good goods, ya know what I mean? 😉). So festive. And since I’ve read a few of the books with Sorel Farms in it, I can picture it PERFECTLY!!! And I wanna go!
Max is goals. Like actual. He was so sweet and giving that hella daddy energy, and I was so here for it. His hesitations about having kids? I totally get it! Like those are all valid things that one worries about before having kids, but you just jump in and send up a prayer that you don’t fuck up too bad. He really does an amazing job embracing the ups and downs that come with having kids. And also being SO SUPPORTIVE of Molly and helping take care of her and make sure she knows how much she’s loved. Gahhh he was just amazing.
Since I read this one my phone, I was so confused when I got to the epilogue because ummm I wanted so much more!! That couldn’t be the end! But damn what a way to end with Max going totally papa bear on everyone. I ate that UP!!
As always, Sara did not disappoint with the spice. She does it so well and it always is so enjoyable to read. This was no exception.
Seriously if Hallmark came out and made this movie, I would be SO HERE FOR ITTT!!!! I want it so bad 😩
November 24, 2025
This Christmas romance hit every mark for me! It's the perfect blend of cozy holiday vibes and steamy scenes —seriously, the spice level did not disappoint!
The humor in this book is chef's kiss. That scene where the MMC tackles getting the kids ready for school? I was literally laughing out loud. If you've ever lived through the chaos of the morning rush with children, you'll feel SO seen.
What really impressed me was the nuance in the storytelling. When the FMC goes on a date with another guy early on, he's actually...a decent person? Revolutionary, I know! So many romances make the "competition" awful to stack the deck, but Elodie Hart made the MMC actually work for it and prove he was the right choice. It made the happily-ever-after feel truly earned.
The kids in this story are ACTUAL CHARACTERS with personalities and individual relationships with both leads — not just cute props mentioned occasionally. You can tell Hart really thought about how a blended family dynamic would actually work.
And can we talk about the setting (Sorrel Farm)?!? The descriptions are so vivid and atmospheric that I'm genuinely sad I can't visit that Christmas market in real life. Fair warning: you'll definitely want to read the other books in this interconnected series afterward.
The humor in this book is chef's kiss. That scene where the MMC tackles getting the kids ready for school? I was literally laughing out loud. If you've ever lived through the chaos of the morning rush with children, you'll feel SO seen.
What really impressed me was the nuance in the storytelling. When the FMC goes on a date with another guy early on, he's actually...a decent person? Revolutionary, I know! So many romances make the "competition" awful to stack the deck, but Elodie Hart made the MMC actually work for it and prove he was the right choice. It made the happily-ever-after feel truly earned.
The kids in this story are ACTUAL CHARACTERS with personalities and individual relationships with both leads — not just cute props mentioned occasionally. You can tell Hart really thought about how a blended family dynamic would actually work.
And can we talk about the setting (Sorrel Farm)?!? The descriptions are so vivid and atmospheric that I'm genuinely sad I can't visit that Christmas market in real life. Fair warning: you'll definitely want to read the other books in this interconnected series afterward.
October 23, 2025
I loved Max and Molly’s second chance romance. This one was re-branded by Elodie Hart AKA Sara Madderson and it’s very sweet and spicy! I’ve not found an Elodie Hart (formerly SM) book I haven’t loved. HEA, low angst, high heat, hardworking single mom, bachelor turned papa-bear, Christmas scenes and baking and a luxurious setting with an actual lived-in home full of chaos and mess, glimpses of favorites from other stories… This book is a lovely holiday treat that is perfect for inspiring all the warm fuzzies (and other warm things!)
Max and Molly are reunited after over a decade, their love story that was interrupted because Molly wanted children and he adamantly didn’t. But their feelings ran deep and the re-kindling is 🔥 🔥 🔥
Ooooooof! And when they ignite! But first, they have to navigate real life, including her crazy kids and him learning how to sort out his own desires.
Complete with all the hilarity of a bachelor-turned-nanny, crazy antics of the inexperienced handling of tiny humans, and a soulful connection.
Grab this one for bit of holiday warmth and fun and love 🩷
*ARC received during re-branding*
Max and Molly are reunited after over a decade, their love story that was interrupted because Molly wanted children and he adamantly didn’t. But their feelings ran deep and the re-kindling is 🔥 🔥 🔥
Ooooooof! And when they ignite! But first, they have to navigate real life, including her crazy kids and him learning how to sort out his own desires.
Complete with all the hilarity of a bachelor-turned-nanny, crazy antics of the inexperienced handling of tiny humans, and a soulful connection.
Grab this one for bit of holiday warmth and fun and love 🩷
*ARC received during re-branding*
Displaying 1 - 30 of 96 reviews