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Brat Christmas
Getting drunk after finding out your boyfriend of four years cheated? Totally normal.
Keying his new girlfriend's car? Understandable.
Finding out that car actually belongs to someone else? A nightmare.
Now, Maxine finds herself working for Reid to pay off the repairs. The older man is bossy and demanding, overprotective and overbearing. He's not at all the kind of man she thought she wanted, but the more time she spends under his watchful eye, the harder it is to ignore the sparks between them or the heat simmering beneath his controlled exterior.
With Reid as the reward, being naughty has never felt so nice.
Keying his new girlfriend's car? Understandable.
Finding out that car actually belongs to someone else? A nightmare.
Now, Maxine finds herself working for Reid to pay off the repairs. The older man is bossy and demanding, overprotective and overbearing. He's not at all the kind of man she thought she wanted, but the more time she spends under his watchful eye, the harder it is to ignore the sparks between them or the heat simmering beneath his controlled exterior.
With Reid as the reward, being naughty has never felt so nice.
Audible Audio
Published October 23, 2025
23 people are currently reading
115 people want to read
About the author
Melody Tyden
47 books187 followersIf you're looking for sweet and steamy romance, you've come to the right place! I started reading romance novels in my early teens and writing them soon afterwards; growing up in small towns in western Canada, there wasn't much else to do! Luckily, those early stories have never seen the light of day.
Now, I live in the UK with my husband and daughter and spend my free time diving into magical or just romantic settings where true love (almost) always wins.
Now, I live in the UK with my husband and daughter and spend my free time diving into magical or just romantic settings where true love (almost) always wins.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
October 16, 2025
Took a break from Monster (s)Mash October to read this ARC yesterday.
I was feeling horrible and got this at lunchtime so decided 'why not?' (Also the release date is 31 October so...). I had finished by 8.30.
This was such a good read. It was really cozy and a good balm from all the pitch black romance I had been reading. I would 100% recommend it for a Christmas Read.
The banter was excellent and it managed to show that a dom/sub relationship isn't just about sex (although there is still plenty of spice) and did it without infantalising the sub or parentifying the dom.
I also loved that it dealt with a cheating partner (not the fmc or mmc) without vilifying them. Like the ex wasn't a bad boyfriend, just not a good one.
So for Christmas this year give yourself a dose of Mr Reid Lawson. You will not regret it.
I will definitely be reading the authors other books. I need to know what happened with Noah and Olivia!
I was feeling horrible and got this at lunchtime so decided 'why not?' (Also the release date is 31 October so...). I had finished by 8.30.
This was such a good read. It was really cozy and a good balm from all the pitch black romance I had been reading. I would 100% recommend it for a Christmas Read.
The banter was excellent and it managed to show that a dom/sub relationship isn't just about sex (although there is still plenty of spice) and did it without infantalising the sub or parentifying the dom.
I also loved that it dealt with a cheating partner (not the fmc or mmc) without vilifying them. Like the ex wasn't a bad boyfriend, just not a good one.
So for Christmas this year give yourself a dose of Mr Reid Lawson. You will not regret it.
I will definitely be reading the authors other books. I need to know what happened with Noah and Olivia!
October 27, 2025
Note: Some of my goodreads shelves can be spoilers
Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Readability: 📖📖📖📖
Feels: 🦋🦋🦋
Emotional Depth: 💔💔💔💔
Sexual Tension: ⚡⚡⚡
Romance: 💞💞💞💞
Sensuality: 💋💋💋💋
Sex Scene Length: 🍑🍑🍑🍑
Steam Scale (Number of Sex Scenes): 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥+
Humor: Yes, a bit
Perspective: first person from both hero and heroine
More character focused or plot focused? character
How did the speed of the story feel? medium
When mains are first on page together: Fairly soon in – end of chapter 2 (of 56)
Cliffhanger: Well – this ends with a happy for now for the mains, but it ends on a plot cliffhanger. They will definitely have another story!
Epilogue: No
Format: voluntarily listened to an advanced audiobook copy from the author
Why I chose this book: It sounded fun when I saw the ARC sign up on instagram!
Mains: Reid and Maxine – This is a M/F relationship between a cishet hero and heroine
(Descriptions found at end of my review)
Should I read in order?
This is the first in Tyden’s Holiday Heat series.
Basic plot:
When Maxine finds her cheating ex boyfriend’s new girlfriends car in her lot, she takes a key to it. Only to find the owner actually an older silver fox standing behind her watching – and he quickly collects on the debt.
Give this a try if you want:
- note that this ends with a happy for now, but a plot cliffhanger. They will have another story!
- contemporary romance
- cheating ex’s girlfriend’s dad...
- age gap – he’s old enough to be her father
- silver fox hero
- divorced hero
- heroine works in car insurance but has a background in graphic design
- hero owns a construction business
- she owes him a debt – he catches her keying his car and tells her she can work it off at his business
- holiday romance
- higher steam – 9ish full scenes with bondage, D/s elements, sex club, spanking….
Ages:
- I didn’t catch specifics, but the heroine I’m guessing is in her 20s, hero is his 40s?
First line:
The first time Josh’s phone buzzes with a text from a new number, I don’t think much of it.
My thoughts:
Wow this book was pretty fun! I went in blind...so when I realized she was going to fuck her cheating ex boyfriend’s new girlfriend’s dad….I was definitely here for that!
This focuses on healing from prior relationships and also a lot of exploration into the new world of kink for Maxine. I think the ending was satisfying but I also wasn’t ready for it to be clear it continues in the next book – the plot is open enough to have me curious.
I loved so many aspects to this book. Reid was a delight and so patient and I loved the way he accepted the heroine and didn’t question her or doubt her in certain situations. I will say I wasn’t prepared for the ex and Reid’s daughter to be involved in the story so much.
The narration was absolutely delightful. I really loved both of these narrators – they did fantastic varying the voices enough I knew who was who and were just pleasing to listen to. Love me a duet narration and this really helped the book fly by and feel natural. I haven’t listened to either of them before but definitely would again.
Few random reading stats for this author
# of books read: 2
Average rating from me: 4 stars
Favorite book: Lady In Waiting
Content warnings: These should be taken as a minimum of what to expect. It’s very possible I have missed some.
Locations of kisses/intimate scenes, safe sex aspects, consent, pregnancy/child in the story:
Extra stuff like what my review breakdown means, where to find me, and book clubs
October 16, 2025
I signed up for this ARC because holidays and spice?! Yes please.
Didn’t know the narrators (shame on me), but Scott Rose and Arya Jacobs were awesome.
Loved the dual narration.
I don't want to spoil it so here are some cliffs notes:
Maxine gets cheated on by her boyfriend of 4 years (ugh). She stalks the new girl (because… same), sees her car, and later spots it parked outside. So she keys it. (cause who wouldn't while a little tipsy)
Then boom!! She gets caught by Reid, who turns out to be the girl’s dad! (Awkward and messy!)
She feels bad, offers to pay, and ends up working with him. (Eyebrow waggle)
Cue spicy Dom/brat vibes and Max finding herself again. Reid helps her grow, and it’s kinda sweet.
There’s drama (exes, family stuff, messy feelings), but they push through.
And THAT CLIFFHANGER?! I need book two now! WAIT! WILL THERE BE A BOOK 2!?
Didn’t know the narrators (shame on me), but Scott Rose and Arya Jacobs were awesome.
Loved the dual narration.
I don't want to spoil it so here are some cliffs notes:
Maxine gets cheated on by her boyfriend of 4 years (ugh). She stalks the new girl (because… same), sees her car, and later spots it parked outside. So she keys it. (cause who wouldn't while a little tipsy)
Then boom!! She gets caught by Reid, who turns out to be the girl’s dad! (Awkward and messy!)
She feels bad, offers to pay, and ends up working with him. (Eyebrow waggle)
Cue spicy Dom/brat vibes and Max finding herself again. Reid helps her grow, and it’s kinda sweet.
There’s drama (exes, family stuff, messy feelings), but they push through.
And THAT CLIFFHANGER?! I need book two now! WAIT! WILL THERE BE A BOOK 2!?
October 17, 2025
Age gap plus ex's new girlfriend's dad? Hell yeah, I'm all in!
This book was such a delight. The MCs, Maxine and Reid, were very mature about how they handled their relationship, especially the Dom/Brat side of it. Trust was absolutely essential for that kink, and it was a running theme throughout the book.
But back to the beginning... the initial meeting of Max and Reid (c'mon, keying the car? Classic!) and working off her debt went straight into the highly charged banter and teasing. The chemistry was awesome and kept leveling up each time Reid introduced Max to a new aspect of the kink. He's in charge, but she's in control. They both have to learn to put an immense of trust in each other, that's the only way it will work, which includes not keeping any secrets.
The tangled web of who they are and how they're connected causes some surprises for at least one of them - it definitely causes surprises and pushes the buttons of a certain ex and his new gf during the holiday season. Get your popcorn to watch it play out!!
Absolutely cannot wait to read more of the Holiday Heat series and in the meantime, I will console myself by reading Tyden's backlist (I know, however shall I survive?). Pick this up!
🎄 Age Gap
🎄 Protective Hero
🎄 Ex's New GF's Dad
🎄 Boss x Employee
🎄 Kink Awakening (Dom/Brat)
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
This book was such a delight. The MCs, Maxine and Reid, were very mature about how they handled their relationship, especially the Dom/Brat side of it. Trust was absolutely essential for that kink, and it was a running theme throughout the book.
But back to the beginning... the initial meeting of Max and Reid (c'mon, keying the car? Classic!) and working off her debt went straight into the highly charged banter and teasing. The chemistry was awesome and kept leveling up each time Reid introduced Max to a new aspect of the kink. He's in charge, but she's in control. They both have to learn to put an immense of trust in each other, that's the only way it will work, which includes not keeping any secrets.
The tangled web of who they are and how they're connected causes some surprises for at least one of them - it definitely causes surprises and pushes the buttons of a certain ex and his new gf during the holiday season. Get your popcorn to watch it play out!!
Absolutely cannot wait to read more of the Holiday Heat series and in the meantime, I will console myself by reading Tyden's backlist (I know, however shall I survive?). Pick this up!
🎄 Age Gap
🎄 Protective Hero
🎄 Ex's New GF's Dad
🎄 Boss x Employee
🎄 Kink Awakening (Dom/Brat)
Thank you to the author for the gifted copy!
October 22, 2025
~Alc Review~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Brat Christmas~Holiday Heat Series Book 1~Melody Tyden~
~Duet Narration~Ayra Jacobs & Scott Rose~
"You can be strong and still want to let go. You can lead and still want someone to take the reigns sometimes."
♡This was my first read by Melody & I devoured it like it was the last cookie left on the platter! Age gap romances are one of my absolute favorites then Melody is like "hold my egg nog" let me do you TWO better! Ex's new Gf's DAD & a brat/dom dynamic. Melody it's October & you fulfilled the best Christmas present a smut lover like myself could ask for! I need the next book in this series like I need air!
The duet narration for this audiobook was perfection! Ayra & Jacob are both new to me narrators & they both blew me away with the way they brought this spicy & forbidden story to life! Their voices flowed super well together & the emotions they put behind each character they voiced was phenomenal!
If you love spicy, forbidden romance books that will have you wanting to go dunk your head in a snow bank in order to cool down, but still have a great plot & an engaging storyline look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶
~Brat Christmas~Holiday Heat Series Book 1~Melody Tyden~
~Duet Narration~Ayra Jacobs & Scott Rose~
"You can be strong and still want to let go. You can lead and still want someone to take the reigns sometimes."
♡This was my first read by Melody & I devoured it like it was the last cookie left on the platter! Age gap romances are one of my absolute favorites then Melody is like "hold my egg nog" let me do you TWO better! Ex's new Gf's DAD & a brat/dom dynamic. Melody it's October & you fulfilled the best Christmas present a smut lover like myself could ask for! I need the next book in this series like I need air!
The duet narration for this audiobook was perfection! Ayra & Jacob are both new to me narrators & they both blew me away with the way they brought this spicy & forbidden story to life! Their voices flowed super well together & the emotions they put behind each character they voiced was phenomenal!
If you love spicy, forbidden romance books that will have you wanting to go dunk your head in a snow bank in order to cool down, but still have a great plot & an engaging storyline look no further!♡
~As Always Happy Reading~
October 18, 2025
This hit all the spots!
After finding out her boyfriend of 4 years has cheated on her, Maxine understandably gets drunk with her friends. But when she gets home & sees his new girlfriend’s car outside her apartment building, her lowered inhibitions result in her keying the car!
When she turns around in a wall of a man, asking why she’s keyed his car, she realises getting drunk maybe wasn’t the best idea she had! Maxine then finds herself working for him to pay off the repair bill. Reid is demanding, bossy, & a lot older than her - but that doesn’t stop the sparks from flying for either of them.
Maxine can’t help herself when she tries pushing his buttons, & Reid can’t help but want to tame the brat in her. What follows is Maxine’s introduction into the lifestyle, with Reid leading the way.
This is a forbidden romance, with Reid being Maxine’s ex’s new girlfriend’s father & that’s a hurdle they have to handle together.
I couldn’t put this book down, & finished it in about 4 hours. Absolutely loved it!
After finding out her boyfriend of 4 years has cheated on her, Maxine understandably gets drunk with her friends. But when she gets home & sees his new girlfriend’s car outside her apartment building, her lowered inhibitions result in her keying the car!
When she turns around in a wall of a man, asking why she’s keyed his car, she realises getting drunk maybe wasn’t the best idea she had! Maxine then finds herself working for him to pay off the repair bill. Reid is demanding, bossy, & a lot older than her - but that doesn’t stop the sparks from flying for either of them.
Maxine can’t help herself when she tries pushing his buttons, & Reid can’t help but want to tame the brat in her. What follows is Maxine’s introduction into the lifestyle, with Reid leading the way.
This is a forbidden romance, with Reid being Maxine’s ex’s new girlfriend’s father & that’s a hurdle they have to handle together.
I couldn’t put this book down, & finished it in about 4 hours. Absolutely loved it!
October 15, 2025
Age gap
Exs new girlfriends dad
DOM/Brat
Duet narration - Arya Jacobs & Scott Rose
Maxine has been with her boyfriend for four years, when she finds out he is cheating on her with a girl from work. Understandably upset she has a girls night out getting tipsy and she makes the decision to let her ex boyfriends new girlfriends car. Never thinking she would get caught in the act.
Reid is a hot older man who is the owner of a well known contracting company. His daughter asks him to pick up her car one night when he catches some women keying the back of the car. She’s young but he can’t help to feel an attraction to her.
They end up in an arrangement to pay for the damages. Turning into oh so much more.
This is a fun listen that is well written and performed. I love that Maxine finds her strength again through Reid.
Exs new girlfriends dad
DOM/Brat
Duet narration - Arya Jacobs & Scott Rose
Maxine has been with her boyfriend for four years, when she finds out he is cheating on her with a girl from work. Understandably upset she has a girls night out getting tipsy and she makes the decision to let her ex boyfriends new girlfriends car. Never thinking she would get caught in the act.
Reid is a hot older man who is the owner of a well known contracting company. His daughter asks him to pick up her car one night when he catches some women keying the back of the car. She’s young but he can’t help to feel an attraction to her.
They end up in an arrangement to pay for the damages. Turning into oh so much more.
This is a fun listen that is well written and performed. I love that Maxine finds her strength again through Reid.
October 16, 2025
I was very excited to receive an ARC to review this book. This is a non-dark, age gap, sub/dom romance with believable characters, mature and meaningful dialogue, and a sweet (although somewhat rushed) love story. And being from Chicago, loved the Bears references! Super easy read (I finished in one sitting). I really liked Maxine and Reid and found their conversations honest and refreshing. I actually found the conversations between all the characters surprisingly candid. That's not something you always see in romance books. Too often angst or miscommunication drags out storylines. I loved that these characters actually talked things out with one another! I did feel like things moved a little too quickly between Maxine and Reid, and some may not care for this specific kink or how the other characters are interconnected, but for an easy read with a bit of spice, this book is worth your time.
***********SPOILER******************
There's a HEA with a twist, leading to book two. We'll have to see what happens next in Valentine Dom that comes out in 2026!
***********SPOILER******************
There's a HEA with a twist, leading to book two. We'll have to see what happens next in Valentine Dom that comes out in 2026!
October 25, 2025
Age gap that perfectly allows for revenge hookup with ex’s new girlfriend’s dad because of chance encounter. Max is a fabulous FMC who after a bad luck in romance with cheater gets to find her perfect guy. Also nice to be able to stick it to an ex by being happy and moving on.
I received this as an ARC and had a tough time putting it down and only did *grumbles* because had to be responsible and go to work. Highly recommend this enjoyable read.
I received this as an ARC and had a tough time putting it down and only did *grumbles* because had to be responsible and go to work. Highly recommend this enjoyable read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 1, 2025
I absolutely loved this book. the forbidden aspect between Reid and Maxine since she was his daughter's boyfriend ex-girlfriend made it all the more appealing and added to the tension and chemistry between the two. It included Christmas vibes and bratty attitude and banter between the two and made it a fun read. I would definitely add this to your Christmas TBR.
November 3, 2025
I absolutely loved this book! The chemistry between Maxine and Reid was incredible — full of tension, heat, and heart. The storyline kept me engaged from start to finish with just the right amount of spice and humor sprinkled throughout.
I really enjoyed watching Maxine rediscover herself after being stuck in a relationship that no longer served her, and Reid was the perfect mix of dominant and irresistible. The banter between them had me smiling constantly, and the funny moments gave the story such a cozy, festive charm.
And that mystery at the end? 👀 Totally has me counting down until the next book!
I really enjoyed watching Maxine rediscover herself after being stuck in a relationship that no longer served her, and Reid was the perfect mix of dominant and irresistible. The banter between them had me smiling constantly, and the funny moments gave the story such a cozy, festive charm.
And that mystery at the end? 👀 Totally has me counting down until the next book!
November 3, 2025
I was gifted an Advanced Listener Copy of this book and I was very pleasantly surprised. It brings all the heat and spice while still having the feels in there too.
Maxine finds out her boyfriend of 4 years has been cheating on her and breaks up with him. Soon after the breakup she meets an older man, Reid, and quickly forms a connection with him. It turns out Reid is the father of Maxine’s ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend. Is it complicated? Absolutely. Do they stop seeing each other? No. But they decide to keep it quiet for a while and that is definitely not a good idea!!
This book is quite spicy. There is a smexy club and lots of exploration. 😉 But it was a spicy good time and I highly recommend it!!!
Maxine finds out her boyfriend of 4 years has been cheating on her and breaks up with him. Soon after the breakup she meets an older man, Reid, and quickly forms a connection with him. It turns out Reid is the father of Maxine’s ex-boyfriend’s new girlfriend. Is it complicated? Absolutely. Do they stop seeing each other? No. But they decide to keep it quiet for a while and that is definitely not a good idea!!
This book is quite spicy. There is a smexy club and lots of exploration. 😉 But it was a spicy good time and I highly recommend it!!!
November 6, 2025
This audiobook was such a fun listen. The narrators bring the characters to life. The story is funny and cute with so much heat. Their particular situation could've turned out so differently but one impulsive decision leads to another and this brat get exactly what she deserves. It's an age gap and k!nk filled and so deliciously hot and sweet. I couldn't get enough.
October 28, 2025
Forget Santa’s nice list, this Christmas is all about being on Reid’s naughty list!
Brat Christmas is Hallmark meets spice but forget Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott, Reid and Maxine have a Richard Gere and Julia Roberts a la Pretty Woman vibe about them.
My god… The chemistry just seeps through the pages! There might be a gap in their ages but there is no gap in their banter, connection, spice and ooh, is there *some* drama and tension!
I mean you don’t expect to meet a guy having been caught keying the car of the girl your now ex cheated on you with… Only for that guy to be that girl’s father… and you certainly don’t envision that girl having actually done you a favour.
Maxine didn’t just find something a hell of a lot better than her ex, she found herself too!
So get yourself on Reid’s naughty list and read Brat Christmas. You won’t regret it.
Brat Christmas is Hallmark meets spice but forget Lacey Chabert and Brennan Elliott, Reid and Maxine have a Richard Gere and Julia Roberts a la Pretty Woman vibe about them.
My god… The chemistry just seeps through the pages! There might be a gap in their ages but there is no gap in their banter, connection, spice and ooh, is there *some* drama and tension!
I mean you don’t expect to meet a guy having been caught keying the car of the girl your now ex cheated on you with… Only for that guy to be that girl’s father… and you certainly don’t envision that girl having actually done you a favour.
Maxine didn’t just find something a hell of a lot better than her ex, she found herself too!
So get yourself on Reid’s naughty list and read Brat Christmas. You won’t regret it.
October 23, 2025
Advanced Listener Copy of Brat Christmas
Holiday Heat series book 1
🎧 Duet Narration Audiobook- Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose
📚 Releases: October 31, 2025
Star Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶🌶.5
Tropes
❤️ Age Gap
❤️dom/sub
❤️Brat
❤️Good banter
I was so excited when Melody sent me an advanced audio copy!!😊 This auduibook book was AMAZING!!!🤩🥰The story alone would have been wonderful by itself. I listen to a lot of audiobooks, and I really think these two narrators were great and added a lot to the characters and story. I had such a fun time listening to this!
Maxine unfortunately drew the short end of the stick on boyfriend quality at the beginning of this story, but no worries; her love story does prevail!
Reid is a respectable businessman whose path crosses with Maxine's, and the story unfolds from there!
I really enjoyed how Maxine's and Reid's relationships in this story developed and evolved to something unexpected and so special!
I am so happy to see that there will be a book 2 in this series, and I have already hearted it on Amazon, so it will remind me later when it comes out!! Can't wait! October 2026 for book 2. I need more!
Thank you, Melody Tyden, for the gifted Advanced Listener Copy!
Holiday Heat series book 1
🎧 Duet Narration Audiobook- Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose
📚 Releases: October 31, 2025
Star Rating- ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level: 🌶🌶.5
Tropes
❤️ Age Gap
❤️dom/sub
❤️Brat
❤️Good banter
I was so excited when Melody sent me an advanced audio copy!!😊 This auduibook book was AMAZING!!!🤩🥰The story alone would have been wonderful by itself. I listen to a lot of audiobooks, and I really think these two narrators were great and added a lot to the characters and story. I had such a fun time listening to this!
Maxine unfortunately drew the short end of the stick on boyfriend quality at the beginning of this story, but no worries; her love story does prevail!
Reid is a respectable businessman whose path crosses with Maxine's, and the story unfolds from there!
I really enjoyed how Maxine's and Reid's relationships in this story developed and evolved to something unexpected and so special!
I am so happy to see that there will be a book 2 in this series, and I have already hearted it on Amazon, so it will remind me later when it comes out!! Can't wait! October 2026 for book 2. I need more!
Thank you, Melody Tyden, for the gifted Advanced Listener Copy!
December 13, 2025
4.5….
But ugh a cliff hanger!
But ugh a cliff hanger!
October 31, 2025
ARC Reader
Fifty Shades meets Older or Birthday Girl in this age gap, Dom/Sub romance. The way the author shows the world of Dom/Sub , but she does not lose the plot of a good romance, was refreshing. Not to mention the taboo nature of an age gap, falling for your boss, who is also your ex's new girlfriend 's dad. Yeah, it was confusing, but it kept me hooked.
I enjoyed that there was more plot than just sex. That you got to fall in love( or hate) with the characters. The way Max falls for Reid while trying to heal from heartbreak. The way that we all (or a hope all) hate Josh and what he did to both Max and eventually Sam, too. And how , at least my heart broke for Sam in that moment.
I cannot wait to see where this story takes us as we are left with a bit of a cliffhanger. Who sent Max that email, and what did it all mean?
Fifty Shades meets Older or Birthday Girl in this age gap, Dom/Sub romance. The way the author shows the world of Dom/Sub , but she does not lose the plot of a good romance, was refreshing. Not to mention the taboo nature of an age gap, falling for your boss, who is also your ex's new girlfriend 's dad. Yeah, it was confusing, but it kept me hooked.
I enjoyed that there was more plot than just sex. That you got to fall in love( or hate) with the characters. The way Max falls for Reid while trying to heal from heartbreak. The way that we all (or a hope all) hate Josh and what he did to both Max and eventually Sam, too. And how , at least my heart broke for Sam in that moment.
I cannot wait to see where this story takes us as we are left with a bit of a cliffhanger. Who sent Max that email, and what did it all mean?
October 23, 2025
First off, thank you Melody Tyden for allowing me to be an ARC reader for Brat Christmas!! ♥️
This book follows Reid and Maxine. Maxine just found out her boyfriend of 4 years has been cheating on her, and one drunken incident leads her to Reid.. her now ex-boyfriend’s girlfriend’s dad.
This was such a fun and spicy read! I was hooked after the first few chapters! My absolute favorite excerpt from the book: “Besides, there’s a twisted kind of logic at work. She took my boyfriend? Fine. I’ll fuck her dad.” 😮💨
I was so pleasantly surprised by the dynamic between Maxine and Reid. It’s like from the very first moment they met, they had this instant chemistry and knew what the other needed. You can’t help but root for Maxine and fall in love with Reid, they compliment each other so well. Respectively, they are both great people.
Josh is a POS. Fiona is terrible. Sam may have actually won me over towards the end, and I can’t wait to get to know Jamie more!
I totally did not expect the book to end the way it did… I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
This book follows Reid and Maxine. Maxine just found out her boyfriend of 4 years has been cheating on her, and one drunken incident leads her to Reid.. her now ex-boyfriend’s girlfriend’s dad.
This was such a fun and spicy read! I was hooked after the first few chapters! My absolute favorite excerpt from the book: “Besides, there’s a twisted kind of logic at work. She took my boyfriend? Fine. I’ll fuck her dad.” 😮💨
I was so pleasantly surprised by the dynamic between Maxine and Reid. It’s like from the very first moment they met, they had this instant chemistry and knew what the other needed. You can’t help but root for Maxine and fall in love with Reid, they compliment each other so well. Respectively, they are both great people.
Josh is a POS. Fiona is terrible. Sam may have actually won me over towards the end, and I can’t wait to get to know Jamie more!
I totally did not expect the book to end the way it did… I can’t wait to find out what happens next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 24, 2025
ARC - Release Date: October 31, 2025
Thank you for allowing me to read and review this book.
Seriously, WOW. Brat Christmas is one of those rare books that manages to be absolutely amazing for both its plot and its passion. I was hooked from the very first page and ended up reading the entire book in one day—it was that good and that unputdownable.
The story itself is perfectly plotted. It’s more than just steam; it’s a beautiful journey of the FMC truly discovering herself and what she wants, both in and out of the bedroom. And speaking of the bedroom... the spice is next level! The relationship that develops between the FMC and her sexy Dom is intense, deep, and beautifully explored. Their dynamic felt authentic and compelling.
If you’re looking for a holiday read with a dominant man, a strong female lead coming into her own, and so much spice it’ll melt the snow off your roof, add Brat Christmas to your TBR immediately. A definite five-star read!
Thank you for allowing me to read and review this book.
Seriously, WOW. Brat Christmas is one of those rare books that manages to be absolutely amazing for both its plot and its passion. I was hooked from the very first page and ended up reading the entire book in one day—it was that good and that unputdownable.
The story itself is perfectly plotted. It’s more than just steam; it’s a beautiful journey of the FMC truly discovering herself and what she wants, both in and out of the bedroom. And speaking of the bedroom... the spice is next level! The relationship that develops between the FMC and her sexy Dom is intense, deep, and beautifully explored. Their dynamic felt authentic and compelling.
If you’re looking for a holiday read with a dominant man, a strong female lead coming into her own, and so much spice it’ll melt the snow off your roof, add Brat Christmas to your TBR immediately. A definite five-star read!
October 21, 2025
Ooohhhh the rage I felt in the beginning. #teammaxine. I support her petty/ twisted logic side. Iykyk 😉 Honestly I loved her. She's feisty! “Someone who is confidently rebellious, unapologetically bold, and playfully defiant.” Maxine made me laugh. I thoroughly enjoyed her as the FMC. Her journey of self discovery was just everything. ❤️
Reid...“Because I’m in charge." “Whenever someone says ‘because I said so’, it means they don’t have a real reason.” “When I say it, it’s because I’ve already decided and you don’t need to worry about it.”...Well 🔥🔥🔥 yea... Yes please. 😂
This book was a ton of fun. I couldn't put it down. You really felt like you knew all the characters throughout the whole thing and everything flowed and was paced nicely. Christmas at the island house was EPIC! The humor/spice/plot ratio was amazing. I loved their relationship and how they worked through everything maturely but then again man vs boy ❤️❤️❤️ this book is movie worthy.
tropes you'll love
✔️ Age gap
✔️ forbidden romance
✔️ boss/ employee
✔️ protective MMC
✔️ holiday romance
I need book two right now!!!!
Thank you for my ARC!!! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Reid...“Because I’m in charge." “Whenever someone says ‘because I said so’, it means they don’t have a real reason.” “When I say it, it’s because I’ve already decided and you don’t need to worry about it.”...Well 🔥🔥🔥 yea... Yes please. 😂
This book was a ton of fun. I couldn't put it down. You really felt like you knew all the characters throughout the whole thing and everything flowed and was paced nicely. Christmas at the island house was EPIC! The humor/spice/plot ratio was amazing. I loved their relationship and how they worked through everything maturely but then again man vs boy ❤️❤️❤️ this book is movie worthy.
tropes you'll love
✔️ Age gap
✔️ forbidden romance
✔️ boss/ employee
✔️ protective MMC
✔️ holiday romance
I need book two right now!!!!
Thank you for my ARC!!! I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 24, 2025
ALC Review:
Duet Narration by Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose
Tropes:
Age Gap
Dom/Brat
Forced Proximity
Boss/Employee
What happens when your heartbreak-fueled bad decision lands you under the watchful eye of a grumpy, older man who’s both infuriating and irresistible? Brat Christmas is the perfect blend of holiday chaos, sizzling chemistry, and emotional warmth.
Maxine and Reid’s dynamic is magnetic—their banter is quick, funny, and dripping with tension. You can practically feel the sparks every time they clash or flirt. The narrators, Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose, completely captured their personalities and chemistry in a way that made me forget I was listening—pure audiobook magic.
Melody Tyden has delivered a holiday romance that’s as naughty as it is nice.
#DNABC approved 🎄
Duet Narration by Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose
Tropes:
Age Gap
Dom/Brat
Forced Proximity
Boss/Employee
What happens when your heartbreak-fueled bad decision lands you under the watchful eye of a grumpy, older man who’s both infuriating and irresistible? Brat Christmas is the perfect blend of holiday chaos, sizzling chemistry, and emotional warmth.
Maxine and Reid’s dynamic is magnetic—their banter is quick, funny, and dripping with tension. You can practically feel the sparks every time they clash or flirt. The narrators, Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose, completely captured their personalities and chemistry in a way that made me forget I was listening—pure audiobook magic.
Melody Tyden has delivered a holiday romance that’s as naughty as it is nice.
#DNABC approved 🎄
December 28, 2025
Rating: 10/10
Spice: 3/5
Tropes:age gap; dom/sub;
vibe Quote:"You can be strong and still want to let go. You can lead and still want someone to take the reigns sometimes."
After finding out her BF has been cheating on her with a coworker mackenzie does the only rational thing... Keys that bitches car when she comes to help her BF move his shit (DUH) but when the owner of that car see's her he is LIVID... (spoiler it's the girls dad OOPS) so he says you we can either have the cops handle it or you can work it off... (scandalous) she chooses the work it off so she goes to work and becomes his PA... Lets just say lots of innuendos and i was so here for it
wtf was that ending tho?
Spice: 3/5
Tropes:age gap; dom/sub;
vibe Quote:"You can be strong and still want to let go. You can lead and still want someone to take the reigns sometimes."
After finding out her BF has been cheating on her with a coworker mackenzie does the only rational thing... Keys that bitches car when she comes to help her BF move his shit (DUH) but when the owner of that car see's her he is LIVID... (spoiler it's the girls dad OOPS) so he says you we can either have the cops handle it or you can work it off... (scandalous) she chooses the work it off so she goes to work and becomes his PA... Lets just say lots of innuendos and i was so here for it
wtf was that ending tho?
October 25, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Obsessed with this book! Forced proximity, age gap romance, sexual awakening. LOVE!
Obsessed with this book! Forced proximity, age gap romance, sexual awakening. LOVE!
November 8, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
*Age Gap
*Ex’s New GF’s Dad
*Kink awakening (Dom/Sub)
*Boss/Employee
Well this book was incredible from start to finish. Who doesn’t love a book that has an age gap espically if it is your ex’s new girlfriends dad. Reid and Maxine’s relationship dynamic i loved. The chemistry between these two was off the charts i loved that Maxine was not scared to push her boundaries with Reid. I am so glad Reid showed Maxine how worthy she is. I can not wait to continue this series.
I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest thoughts.
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
*Age Gap
*Ex’s New GF’s Dad
*Kink awakening (Dom/Sub)
*Boss/Employee
Well this book was incredible from start to finish. Who doesn’t love a book that has an age gap espically if it is your ex’s new girlfriends dad. Reid and Maxine’s relationship dynamic i loved. The chemistry between these two was off the charts i loved that Maxine was not scared to push her boundaries with Reid. I am so glad Reid showed Maxine how worthy she is. I can not wait to continue this series.
I received this book as an ARC in return for my honest thoughts.
October 18, 2025
Audiobook !!
📖 : Brat Christmas by @melodytyden
✨ Release on 31st October in KU & Amazon
The audiobook is duet-narrated by Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose !!
⭐️ - 5
🌶️ - 3.5
My first time with Melody’s book and I’m sure it won’t be the last time as I’ll continue with her books.
This book is about Maxine and Reid. Book is perfect for holiday read. Like you’ll have everything in this one. Fun, banter, love, heat and what not. I listened to this one while working and it was narrated so well that I couldn’t stop myself from listening to it. I just love Reid like how he is.
Now I can’t wait for the next book and like need it asap 😭.
📖 : Brat Christmas by @melodytyden
✨ Release on 31st October in KU & Amazon
The audiobook is duet-narrated by Arya Jacobs and Scott Rose !!
⭐️ - 5
🌶️ - 3.5
My first time with Melody’s book and I’m sure it won’t be the last time as I’ll continue with her books.
This book is about Maxine and Reid. Book is perfect for holiday read. Like you’ll have everything in this one. Fun, banter, love, heat and what not. I listened to this one while working and it was narrated so well that I couldn’t stop myself from listening to it. I just love Reid like how he is.
Now I can’t wait for the next book and like need it asap 😭.
October 23, 2025
I received a free copy of this book and wow!
Age gap, Dom/Sub
I love this book, and can not wait for book 2! The banter between Reid and Max is fantastic, and the way Reid handles brattiness is gold!
Age gap, Dom/Sub
I love this book, and can not wait for book 2! The banter between Reid and Max is fantastic, and the way Reid handles brattiness is gold!
October 24, 2025
I knew this book was going to be spicy, based on the title. But I was definitely not expecting it to be that spicy!!! It was so good, I couldn't put it down, just pre ordered Valentine Dom for 2026❤️
October 18, 2025
I love this book! Loved the intro to dom/sub. relationship. Josh is not a good person for relationships!! First, he cheated on Maxine with Sam, then he kisses Maxine while he is dating Sam. Grow up Josh and learn how to treat a woman!! Reid on the other hand is a gentleman and a great and faithful lover. Love the Max/Reid pairing!! Also love the friendship that develops between Maxine and Olivia. Can’t wait for the next book in the series!!!
October 20, 2025
This book got me out of a reading slump, all I can say is wow, genuinely the best book I have read this year and I can’t wait to read the second book☺️ not a single bad thing to say about this book
October 20, 2025
Wow! This book hooked me from the beginning! I couldn't put it down! Reid and Maxine's story is just beginning. I had no clue it would end on a cliffhanger so I'm really looking forward to book 2!! If you love an age-gap, spicy BDSM story, you won't be disappointed with this book!!
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