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Name in Lights #4
Merrymaker: A Grumpy Single Dad Christmas Romantic Comedy
Cleo Jones
Elijah Abrams
Happy Holidays WTF
I woke up with a mild hangover and an alarm notification that said, “Check attachment in email Cleo sent to herself from my phone, Dummy.”
Your video proof of me offering you a temporary assistant job over the holidays seems legit.
The payment amount I agreed to was outrageous. However, I have a deadline to meet. Having already fired seven temps this week, I am inclined to give this a shot, assuming you are willing to start today.
Please don’t wear that saucy elf costume, speak in rhyme, or act all festive.
P.S. I apologize for the confusion caused by my son’s good intentions. He knew nothing of our former acquaintance and film school rivalry. But thanks for playing along.
Elijah Abrams
Cleo Jones
And a very merry good morning to you, sir!
To your non-festive requests, I must say nay!
You can pay me in cash, starting today.
I’ll help you produce movie magic, while spreading Christmas cheer,
Despite your mockery of my theatrical career.
I’ll bring my balloons and my kazoo.
I hope your son can join us too!
So flattered you found my elf costume saucy!
See you at the office, Bossy…
Elijah Abrams
Happy Holidays WTF
I woke up with a mild hangover and an alarm notification that said, “Check attachment in email Cleo sent to herself from my phone, Dummy.”
Your video proof of me offering you a temporary assistant job over the holidays seems legit.
The payment amount I agreed to was outrageous. However, I have a deadline to meet. Having already fired seven temps this week, I am inclined to give this a shot, assuming you are willing to start today.
Please don’t wear that saucy elf costume, speak in rhyme, or act all festive.
P.S. I apologize for the confusion caused by my son’s good intentions. He knew nothing of our former acquaintance and film school rivalry. But thanks for playing along.
Elijah Abrams
Cleo Jones
And a very merry good morning to you, sir!
To your non-festive requests, I must say nay!
You can pay me in cash, starting today.
I’ll help you produce movie magic, while spreading Christmas cheer,
Despite your mockery of my theatrical career.
I’ll bring my balloons and my kazoo.
I hope your son can join us too!
So flattered you found my elf costume saucy!
See you at the office, Bossy…
158 pages, Paperback
Published October 23, 2025
333 people are currently reading
225 people want to read
About the author
Kayley Loring
42 books1,671 followersAmazon Top 25 and USA Today bestselling author Kayley Loring spent many years as a screenwriter (under a different name) in Los Angeles before moving to the Pacific Northwest to live out her childhood dream of being a Disney heroine who talks and sings to woodland creatures. When not trying to keep animals alive, she’s writing steamy romantic comedy novels, obviously. She’s breathing cleaner air, writing dirtier words, and staring at her computer screen until her eyeballs dry out instead of prancing around Southern California in miniskirts and going to the hair salon. Still waiting for the woodland creatures to clean her house, though.
Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want humor, heat, and heart. You’ll enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life and you’ll swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends. All Kayley Loring books are steamy open door romance. Be sure to check out her next-level audiobooks!
Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayle...
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!
Read or listen to Kayley’s books when you want humor, heat, and heart. You’ll enjoy top-notch banter, strong heroines, lovable characters you’d want to know in real life and you’ll swoon over perfectly imperfect book boyfriends. All Kayley Loring books are steamy open door romance. Be sure to check out her next-level audiobooks!
Learn more at www.kayleyloring.com
Come join Kayley in her Facebook reader group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/kayle...
Follow Kayley on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kayleyloring/
Listen to Kayley talk to the wildly talented narrators who narrate her audiobooks on the Multiple Eargasms with Kayley Loring podcast!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
October 27, 2025
4 stars
This is a short, fun, laugh-out-loud Christmas novella with a grumpy/sunshine, single dad romance, and all the hilarity that I love from a Kayley Loring romcom.
Cleo is a ray of sunshine who is cheery and perky and full of Christmas spirit. Elijah is a Hollywood Producer and devoted single dad to an adorable little boy, Paxton, and other than the joy he has with his son, he’s a massive grump fighting against an impossible deadline at work.
Cleo and Elijah were at film school together and almost hooked up, but it never happened for them. Now it’s ten years later and they’ve been brought together by little Paxton who hires Cleo for a party. It’s a surprising reunion for them, and Eiljah sees it as his chance to finally claim the girl who got away. He hires her as his temporary assistant, and she comes crashing into his life with holiday cheer.
It's such a fun read that moves quickly, full of laughs and charm. Cleo’s bubbly personality is quite the force, but I love her lack of drama and no-nonsense attitude. And I fell hard for Elijah, the grumpy dad who melts for his son and his girl. He owns how much he wants Cleo, and that, mixed with his constant snark, is so much fun.
This book forms part of the Name in Lights series, and the lazy wingmen are there to help out, (I loved seeing them again, if only briefly), but you can easily read this as a standalone.
This is a great read, lots of fun with a gorgeously happy ending. I loved it.
4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis in duet style narration, and it’s such a fun one to listen to. They bring so much life to their characters, and this audiobook is a delight.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
This is a short, fun, laugh-out-loud Christmas novella with a grumpy/sunshine, single dad romance, and all the hilarity that I love from a Kayley Loring romcom.
Cleo is a ray of sunshine who is cheery and perky and full of Christmas spirit. Elijah is a Hollywood Producer and devoted single dad to an adorable little boy, Paxton, and other than the joy he has with his son, he’s a massive grump fighting against an impossible deadline at work.
Cleo and Elijah were at film school together and almost hooked up, but it never happened for them. Now it’s ten years later and they’ve been brought together by little Paxton who hires Cleo for a party. It’s a surprising reunion for them, and Eiljah sees it as his chance to finally claim the girl who got away. He hires her as his temporary assistant, and she comes crashing into his life with holiday cheer.
It's such a fun read that moves quickly, full of laughs and charm. Cleo’s bubbly personality is quite the force, but I love her lack of drama and no-nonsense attitude. And I fell hard for Elijah, the grumpy dad who melts for his son and his girl. He owns how much he wants Cleo, and that, mixed with his constant snark, is so much fun.
Fuck, this woman smells amazing.
“Why are you so fucking fragrant?”
“I think what you’re smelling is my deodorant spray. I made it last month. I am so glad you enjoy it.”
Why does that make me angry and horny at the same time? Why does almost everything about this woman make me angry and horny?
This book forms part of the Name in Lights series, and the lazy wingmen are there to help out, (I loved seeing them again, if only briefly), but you can easily read this as a standalone.
This is a great read, lots of fun with a gorgeously happy ending. I loved it.
4 stars.
I listened to this as an audiobook, narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis in duet style narration, and it’s such a fun one to listen to. They bring so much life to their characters, and this audiobook is a delight.
An Advanced Reader Copy was generously provided by the author for an honest review.
November 25, 2025
Short, cheesy, quick and sweet. Kayley went with all the fuzzy feels for this one but with the way the book started I was a little lost. I couldn’t tell if this was a new relationship or a second chance. I thought Cleo’s email in the beginning was about someone else. I didn’t think it would be about Elijah just like I didn’t think Elijah’s email would be about Cleo. I struggled to get into it at first. It was too upbeat and cheesy and it sort of maintained this throughout the book. I think my taste changed because I used to like books formatted this way, more funny and weird to serious and sensual. I still liked how the majority of the book communicated through text messages and emails but I think this one had a bit too much pizazz to it. Nowadays I think I prefer my stories darker and more passionate. I feel like this was missing in the book and had less emotion but was more about the good time. Cleo and Elijah did end up getting pretty serious about each other once the hurt was cleared up and Elijah was told the real reason they didn’t work out 8 years ago. It was at this time I realized this was a second chance, well actually, much earlier than that. In reading about what happened it helped clears up why Elijah was bitter and hurt over her, also embarrassed, and why Cleo carries this lingering attraction and guilt over what she did. This just ends up being a case of not breaking her heart before it gets too serious and leaving with some self respect and no embarrassment. From there, when fate brings the two of them back together it was like they were dancing around feelings left unsaid and Elijah was still reeling from what happened between the two of them that he couldn’t fully move on. He had this distaste for the holidays because of it but also his script was stressing him out so I can’t fault this all towards his unfinished business with Cleo. Aside from all that, the funny vibes and Christmas cheer got me going. I’ve been wanting to read this book ever since it came out a couple months ago, back when the holidays and Christmas wasn’t even on my radar. In fact, this was part of the slew of holiday stories that came out right when we were having a heat wave so my mind wasn’t even on the holidays and Christmas. I don’t even think Halloween happened yet and it didn’t feel right reading them before halloween. Now that the holidays are underway, I can read books like this because it relates to my state or mind and I’m ready for all there is to celebrate the holidays. I just wish at the end of this book I could tell you that it blew me away and was amazing. All I can tell you is that the amount of cheese with the extra smack you in the face with Christmas vibes I got from this and the little bit of confusion and lack of emotion wasn’t able to get me to give this a 5 but a solid 4 for the feels, sweetness, quick flow, length, and funny moments.
October 13, 2025
Christmas romance
Grumpy x sunshine
Second chance romance
Single dad
Duet narration - Erin Mallon & Brandon Francis
No one does spicy scenes quite like Brandon!! He grunts and groans and it’s absolutely delicious I love it!
This is a fun, cute, spicy holiday novella.
Cleo is a happy go lucky Christmas loving women. She does all kinds of jobs including kids party entertainment. Which is where she meets a little boy who hires her to entertain at a party, or so she thought.
Elijah is a grump, a Christmas hater who has to write a script for a holiday movie. His friends are also trying to get him to date but he has no desire to date right now. Running into the one that got away was not in his bingo card this holiday season.
I loved experiencing these two reconnecting and finding love together. Great quick holiday story!
Grumpy x sunshine
Second chance romance
Single dad
Duet narration - Erin Mallon & Brandon Francis
No one does spicy scenes quite like Brandon!! He grunts and groans and it’s absolutely delicious I love it!
This is a fun, cute, spicy holiday novella.
Cleo is a happy go lucky Christmas loving women. She does all kinds of jobs including kids party entertainment. Which is where she meets a little boy who hires her to entertain at a party, or so she thought.
Elijah is a grump, a Christmas hater who has to write a script for a holiday movie. His friends are also trying to get him to date but he has no desire to date right now. Running into the one that got away was not in his bingo card this holiday season.
I loved experiencing these two reconnecting and finding love together. Great quick holiday story!
October 27, 2025
A warm-hearted story set in my favourite time of year. What more do I need?
What a delightful story this was! And I got to see my Shane (Miller) again!
With humour, heart and another amazing single dad in the Hollywood spotlight Merrymaker was a perfect Christmas story.
I absolutely adored Cleo and her love for the holidays. She was strong and knew what she wanted from life. She wasn’t afraid to go toe-to-toe with Elijah and bonded with Paxton immediately.
If you’re looking for Christmassy novella, look no further. This is ideal!
What a delightful story this was! And I got to see my Shane (Miller) again!
With humour, heart and another amazing single dad in the Hollywood spotlight Merrymaker was a perfect Christmas story.
I absolutely adored Cleo and her love for the holidays. She was strong and knew what she wanted from life. She wasn’t afraid to go toe-to-toe with Elijah and bonded with Paxton immediately.
If you’re looking for Christmassy novella, look no further. This is ideal!
October 27, 2025
Merrymaker is pure holiday magic with a side of heat! Kayley Loring delivers another hilarious, swoony, and oh-so-spicy romance that had me grinning like an elf on caffeine. The chemistry is off the charts. The perfect amount of banter! And the steam? Let’s just say it melted more than the snow. Absolutely irresistible!
November 19, 2025
So cute!
Real funny and cute holiday read! Both Cleo and Elijah honestly had the best personalities. And who doesnt love a second chance? Paxton was a cute little surprise we needed as well.
Real funny and cute holiday read! Both Cleo and Elijah honestly had the best personalities. And who doesnt love a second chance? Paxton was a cute little surprise we needed as well.
December 16, 2025
4.5 stars.
I loved this one! Definitely a favorite of the holiday season. I thought the audiobook was amazing and the writing was so funny and clever. The banter was pretty perfect.
It was a pretty light book; however, I thought the reason they missed their first chance was pretty angsty and brought a brutal dose of reality to the romance. I 100% agree that Cleo made the right choice back then, but for some reason I was a bit stuck on what Elijah said to her. I think it was honestly because it was so real and heartbreaking.
I'll keep it under spoiler tags because I go into detail about what happened in the past:
So now that I've taken that passage in a positive way, I can say that I do really love how feral he was for Cleo. He was hilarious and they were super cute together.
I loved this one! Definitely a favorite of the holiday season. I thought the audiobook was amazing and the writing was so funny and clever. The banter was pretty perfect.
It was a pretty light book; however, I thought the reason they missed their first chance was pretty angsty and brought a brutal dose of reality to the romance. I 100% agree that Cleo made the right choice back then, but for some reason I was a bit stuck on what Elijah said to her. I think it was honestly because it was so real and heartbreaking.
I'll keep it under spoiler tags because I go into detail about what happened in the past:
So now that I've taken that passage in a positive way, I can say that I do really love how feral he was for Cleo. He was hilarious and they were super cute together.
October 18, 2025
I forgot how much I love Kayley Loring’s single dads and all of their kids. She’s the best writing them, the connection between characters (especially children) and all the love, the fun, the excitement, and the jokes are out of this world!
A perfect story for the holidays. It’s short, sweet, and sexy. Loved every piece of it!
Will I read it again in December? Heck yeah!
(And I will definitely be reading the Name in Lights’ books again.)
A perfect story for the holidays. It’s short, sweet, and sexy. Loved every piece of it!
Will I read it again in December? Heck yeah!
(And I will definitely be reading the Name in Lights’ books again.)
October 16, 2025
Merrymaker is a quick, sweet, steamy, and hilarious holiday read that reunites old loves and has the most adorable, merry matchmaking little boy who loves cookies and gassy jokes.
I'm going to call this The Grinch meets Elf but add in the most adorable seven year old boy, named Paxton, who is related to the The Grinch (okay The Grinch is actually his dad). Now back to this adorable seven year old...he hires an elf to be his dad's date to a holiday-wedding party (I know...a combo party who does that, but it all makes sense, trust me 😉), but this is the reason Paxton needed a date for his dad (because who attends a holiday-wedding party dateless, The Grinch, that's who 😂). It's sweet and I mean, who knew seven year olds were so invested in their dad's love lives, especially this cutie patootie...speaking of toots...oh, wait, I digress😂...back to Paxton and his love of cookies and fart jokes...see I knew I would get to the toots😂...who knew Paxton would be the little Christmas matchmaker😉 of his dad's dreams, or perhaps Paxton's real goal was just that he really liked Cleo and her playlist of smelly jokes 😂. The inner workings of a seven year old boy's mind is a true wonder.
In all seriousness...Cleo and Elijah have a past, a past that neither one of them likes to think about, but neither one of them actually forgot. You know that one that got away...Yeah, that is Cleo and Elijah for each other. So while they both still pine...oh, there is lots of pining going on 🔥🔥... and I'm talking about more than the Christmas pine trees that spring out of nowhere when Cleo is around. 😂There is also another reason Elijah wants Cleo in his life, again, more than to remove the mysterious elves that keep springing up everywhere. 😂 He needs help, lots of help getting a script in shape and he doesn't have a lot of time to do it. Several years ago they went to film school together, so he knows how talented she is, but will she be willing to work with him and without all her festive cheer.
Oh, my goodness, the Christmas magic that constantly springs up around Cleo and mystifies Elijah was hilarious. Cleo is witty and her party time with Paxton is so funny and is sweetly endearing. I adored Cleo, especially trying to bring a smile to Elijah's face. Merrymaker is a fun, quick read, especially with the holiday season right around the corner.
I'm going to call this The Grinch meets Elf but add in the most adorable seven year old boy, named Paxton, who is related to the The Grinch (okay The Grinch is actually his dad). Now back to this adorable seven year old...he hires an elf to be his dad's date to a holiday-wedding party (I know...a combo party who does that, but it all makes sense, trust me 😉), but this is the reason Paxton needed a date for his dad (because who attends a holiday-wedding party dateless, The Grinch, that's who 😂). It's sweet and I mean, who knew seven year olds were so invested in their dad's love lives, especially this cutie patootie...speaking of toots...oh, wait, I digress😂...back to Paxton and his love of cookies and fart jokes...see I knew I would get to the toots😂...who knew Paxton would be the little Christmas matchmaker😉 of his dad's dreams, or perhaps Paxton's real goal was just that he really liked Cleo and her playlist of smelly jokes 😂. The inner workings of a seven year old boy's mind is a true wonder.
In all seriousness...Cleo and Elijah have a past, a past that neither one of them likes to think about, but neither one of them actually forgot. You know that one that got away...Yeah, that is Cleo and Elijah for each other. So while they both still pine...oh, there is lots of pining going on 🔥🔥... and I'm talking about more than the Christmas pine trees that spring out of nowhere when Cleo is around. 😂There is also another reason Elijah wants Cleo in his life, again, more than to remove the mysterious elves that keep springing up everywhere. 😂 He needs help, lots of help getting a script in shape and he doesn't have a lot of time to do it. Several years ago they went to film school together, so he knows how talented she is, but will she be willing to work with him and without all her festive cheer.
Oh, my goodness, the Christmas magic that constantly springs up around Cleo and mystifies Elijah was hilarious. Cleo is witty and her party time with Paxton is so funny and is sweetly endearing. I adored Cleo, especially trying to bring a smile to Elijah's face. Merrymaker is a fun, quick read, especially with the holiday season right around the corner.
October 18, 2025
**Audiobook Review**
All the laughs and holiday spirit packed into one hilarious novella. “Merrymaker” is steamy, witty and laugh out loud second chance Christmas novella that was a great addition to the “Name in Lights” series.
Elijah is in a time crunch to make a terrible script into a blockbuster during the Christmas break. He’s at his wits end, has gotten rid of several temporary assistants and just doesn’t know what to do. And the last person he was expecting to see at his ex-wife’s wedding, was the girl who got away. Cleo is now in Los Angeles and has a bunch of different jobs while she figures things out. And one of those is a party character for children and that’s where she meets Ellijah’s son, Paxton and he hires her for an upcoming gig. He knowingly hires her to be his Dad’s date to the wedding. She then ends up becoming his temporary assistant to help with the script that he doesn’t think can be saved and the fiery chemistry they had in film school gets reignited.
This is classic Kayley Loring rom-com gold and I loved listening to this novella. Elijah is a walking holiday grump and that works so well for him. He’s not a fan of the holiday so making the time to turn a flop into a winner works for him. He’s not at all upset about his ex remarrying and welcomes the change in the family. Cleo is holiday sunshine in an elf costume and I love how she comes back into Ellijah’s life. Paxton is a smart seven year old boy who knew how to help his Dad even though he had no idea they shared a past. Their past was competitive in film school but that opened the door to them being attracted to each other. Then life came into play and they lost touch. But the reasoning comes out and makes so much sense when Ellijah figures it out. This was a fun novella and I loved listening to Ellijah and Cleo get their second chance.
Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis narrated in duet and I loved listening to them bring this novella to life. Erin was hilarious, genuine and brought the fun Cleo to life perfectly. Brandon’s grumpy and smooth voice was the perfect choice to bring Ellijah to life.
All the laughs and holiday spirit packed into one hilarious novella. “Merrymaker” is steamy, witty and laugh out loud second chance Christmas novella that was a great addition to the “Name in Lights” series.
Elijah is in a time crunch to make a terrible script into a blockbuster during the Christmas break. He’s at his wits end, has gotten rid of several temporary assistants and just doesn’t know what to do. And the last person he was expecting to see at his ex-wife’s wedding, was the girl who got away. Cleo is now in Los Angeles and has a bunch of different jobs while she figures things out. And one of those is a party character for children and that’s where she meets Ellijah’s son, Paxton and he hires her for an upcoming gig. He knowingly hires her to be his Dad’s date to the wedding. She then ends up becoming his temporary assistant to help with the script that he doesn’t think can be saved and the fiery chemistry they had in film school gets reignited.
This is classic Kayley Loring rom-com gold and I loved listening to this novella. Elijah is a walking holiday grump and that works so well for him. He’s not a fan of the holiday so making the time to turn a flop into a winner works for him. He’s not at all upset about his ex remarrying and welcomes the change in the family. Cleo is holiday sunshine in an elf costume and I love how she comes back into Ellijah’s life. Paxton is a smart seven year old boy who knew how to help his Dad even though he had no idea they shared a past. Their past was competitive in film school but that opened the door to them being attracted to each other. Then life came into play and they lost touch. But the reasoning comes out and makes so much sense when Ellijah figures it out. This was a fun novella and I loved listening to Ellijah and Cleo get their second chance.
Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis narrated in duet and I loved listening to them bring this novella to life. Erin was hilarious, genuine and brought the fun Cleo to life perfectly. Brandon’s grumpy and smooth voice was the perfect choice to bring Ellijah to life.
October 27, 2025
Anytime that this author announces a new book I always look so forward to it! The moment I saw this one posted about I wanted to read it! A Christmas Romcom?! YES! I dived right back into the Name in Lights world. I really enjoyed this story!
Elijah and Cleo's journey pulled me in from the start! Elijah is a producer and single dad to son, Paxton. Cleo is an entertainer. Elijah and Cleo went to film school together. As the two of them are reunited in memorable fashion little did they know that Cleo would become Elijah's temporary assistant. Can they work together through the holidays? and could it lead to the best Christmas yet for them and their hearts?
Cleo loves everything about this time of year and Elijah can't stand this time of year which made them both even more relatable. They quickly had me glued to my kindle. I so enjoyed how Elijah and Cleo had history and the way they were brought back into each other's lives. From their past, working together, everything Christmas, and all of the feelings between them, I couldn't wait to see what all this holiday season would have in store for them.
So many times I found myself cracking up throughout reading! I adored Elijah and Cleo! I really enjoyed seeing them be reunited and working together. The chemistry between Cleo and Elijah was so great and blushworthy! They brought many feels to this heart of mine. I couldn't get enough of the grumpy x sunshine of Cleo and Elijah and the Christmas of it all!
Paxton was an awesome kid! I loved what all that he brought to the story and the moments he shared with Elijah and Cleo.
I was happy to be back in the Name in Lights world! Also, Elf costumes rock!
With Merrymaker, Ms.Loring has created such a wonderful Christmas romcom that brought second chance goodness, single dad, workplace fun, priceless moments, spice and heart, and many feels! This author knows how to make the days better with her books and did she ever for me with Elijah and Cleo's story! Definitely check out Merrymaker this holiday season! 🎄❤️
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
Elijah and Cleo's journey pulled me in from the start! Elijah is a producer and single dad to son, Paxton. Cleo is an entertainer. Elijah and Cleo went to film school together. As the two of them are reunited in memorable fashion little did they know that Cleo would become Elijah's temporary assistant. Can they work together through the holidays? and could it lead to the best Christmas yet for them and their hearts?
Cleo loves everything about this time of year and Elijah can't stand this time of year which made them both even more relatable. They quickly had me glued to my kindle. I so enjoyed how Elijah and Cleo had history and the way they were brought back into each other's lives. From their past, working together, everything Christmas, and all of the feelings between them, I couldn't wait to see what all this holiday season would have in store for them.
So many times I found myself cracking up throughout reading! I adored Elijah and Cleo! I really enjoyed seeing them be reunited and working together. The chemistry between Cleo and Elijah was so great and blushworthy! They brought many feels to this heart of mine. I couldn't get enough of the grumpy x sunshine of Cleo and Elijah and the Christmas of it all!
Paxton was an awesome kid! I loved what all that he brought to the story and the moments he shared with Elijah and Cleo.
I was happy to be back in the Name in Lights world! Also, Elf costumes rock!
With Merrymaker, Ms.Loring has created such a wonderful Christmas romcom that brought second chance goodness, single dad, workplace fun, priceless moments, spice and heart, and many feels! This author knows how to make the days better with her books and did she ever for me with Elijah and Cleo's story! Definitely check out Merrymaker this holiday season! 🎄❤️
*I volunteered to read and review a copy of this book from the author*
October 21, 2025
Our Kayley Loring once again delivers pure rom-com gold with The Merrymaker…a hilarious, steamy, and heartwarming holiday novella that captures everything we love about her writing. Set in the Name in Lights universe, this second-chance, grumpy/sunshine romance follows Elijah, a broody single dad and frazzled screenwriter, and Cleo, the one who got away back in film school. When Elijah’s witty “bespectacled” seven-year-old son, Paxton, spots Cleo working as a kids’ party entertainer, he hatches a plan to reunite them…in true mischievous matchmaker fashion.
What follows is a whirlwind of festive chaos, sizzling chemistry, and laugh-out-loud banter as Cleo becomes Elijah’s “temporary assistant” to help rescue his disastrous holiday script. Their old rivalry quickly reignites into passion, and the truth behind their missed connection years ago adds an unexpectedly tender layer to this sparkling rom-com.
Kayley Loring balances sharp humor, swoony moments, and genuine heart with ease…from her usual fart jokes and flirty banter to scenes that’ll melt even the grinchiest listener. Elijah’s relationship with Paxton shines just as brightly as his rekindled connection with Cleo, making this story equal parts funny, sexy, and feel-good cozy.
The Duet Narration by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis is absolute perfection! Erin brings Cleo’s warmth, wit, and joyful energy to life (and completely nails Paxton, too!), while Brandon’s smooth, cocky/sexy gruff delivery makes Elijah impossible not to fall for. Their chemistry and comedic timing are spot-on, turning this holiday rom-com into a full-on cinematic experience.
Merrymaker is everything a holiday romance should be…funny, heartfelt, steamy, and brimming with Christmas cheer. It’s the perfect pick-me-up to make your season merry and bright!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars on top of the Christmas tree for this audiobook!!!
What follows is a whirlwind of festive chaos, sizzling chemistry, and laugh-out-loud banter as Cleo becomes Elijah’s “temporary assistant” to help rescue his disastrous holiday script. Their old rivalry quickly reignites into passion, and the truth behind their missed connection years ago adds an unexpectedly tender layer to this sparkling rom-com.
Kayley Loring balances sharp humor, swoony moments, and genuine heart with ease…from her usual fart jokes and flirty banter to scenes that’ll melt even the grinchiest listener. Elijah’s relationship with Paxton shines just as brightly as his rekindled connection with Cleo, making this story equal parts funny, sexy, and feel-good cozy.
The Duet Narration by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis is absolute perfection! Erin brings Cleo’s warmth, wit, and joyful energy to life (and completely nails Paxton, too!), while Brandon’s smooth, cocky/sexy gruff delivery makes Elijah impossible not to fall for. Their chemistry and comedic timing are spot-on, turning this holiday rom-com into a full-on cinematic experience.
Merrymaker is everything a holiday romance should be…funny, heartfelt, steamy, and brimming with Christmas cheer. It’s the perfect pick-me-up to make your season merry and bright!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 Stars on top of the Christmas tree for this audiobook!!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
This is the PERFECT Holiday book and I loved it.
Full of Christmas Cheer and lots of grumpy Sunshine banter and fun,I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book.
Cleo is the Sunshine she is full of joy and happiness,she loves the holidays...Elijah is the grumpy a moody,broody single dad to Paxton.
They have a past with one another and were very close at one point until their lives just took different directions.They are eachothers one that got away.
Cleo is a childrens entertainer which is ideal for her personality...Elijah is a screen writer and it is his son Paxton who accidently re-unites them.
Paxon hires Cleo for a party under false pretences,as he is really hiring her to be his dad's date for a Christmas party.
The misunderstanding leads Cleo becoming Elijah's temporary assistant,Elijah is struggling to write a script for a Christmas movie...Cleo could be the perfect person to help him finish the script.
The attraction between them is still very much there between them and there is no denying the chemistry...Hot,Hot,Hot.
The Narration is Amazing to this story,I adored listening to Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis as they portrayed Cleo and Elijah...They both absolutely got the personality to Cleo and Elijah perfectly,and the comedy elements they voiced are delicious.They made this story sound so wonderful I loved listening to both Narrators tell this story.
Merry Maker is a steamy,hilarious and cute rom com that is so heartwarming and Christmassy...It makes you feel cosy and warm inside after listening,it definately has the feel good factor.
It is a book that is so right to get you feeling ready for the Holiday season.
I Love Kayley Loring her books never fail to make me smile.
Excellent.
5 candy canes hanging on the christmas tree.
Full of Christmas Cheer and lots of grumpy Sunshine banter and fun,I thoroughly enjoyed listening to this book.
Cleo is the Sunshine she is full of joy and happiness,she loves the holidays...Elijah is the grumpy a moody,broody single dad to Paxton.
They have a past with one another and were very close at one point until their lives just took different directions.They are eachothers one that got away.
Cleo is a childrens entertainer which is ideal for her personality...Elijah is a screen writer and it is his son Paxton who accidently re-unites them.
Paxon hires Cleo for a party under false pretences,as he is really hiring her to be his dad's date for a Christmas party.
The misunderstanding leads Cleo becoming Elijah's temporary assistant,Elijah is struggling to write a script for a Christmas movie...Cleo could be the perfect person to help him finish the script.
The attraction between them is still very much there between them and there is no denying the chemistry...Hot,Hot,Hot.
The Narration is Amazing to this story,I adored listening to Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis as they portrayed Cleo and Elijah...They both absolutely got the personality to Cleo and Elijah perfectly,and the comedy elements they voiced are delicious.They made this story sound so wonderful I loved listening to both Narrators tell this story.
Merry Maker is a steamy,hilarious and cute rom com that is so heartwarming and Christmassy...It makes you feel cosy and warm inside after listening,it definately has the feel good factor.
It is a book that is so right to get you feeling ready for the Holiday season.
I Love Kayley Loring her books never fail to make me smile.
Excellent.
5 candy canes hanging on the christmas tree.
October 16, 2025
I loved everything about this!
This is the holiday audiobook based in the Name in Lights world that I didn’t know I needed. But I am SOOO happy that Kayley gave it to us.
Cleo and Elijah parted ways during film school. They are reunited when his son, Paxton, hires Cleo for a party, but in reality, she’s there to be his dad’s date at a Christmas wedding. He’s now a studio executive trying to turn a poor script around and into a blockbuster Christmas movie. Through a series of events, he hires Cleo as his temp to help with the script and things really begin to heat up. Elijah has always wondered why Cleo failed to show up years ago. Their history is told through a series of emails and it’s fantastic when Elijah discovers what really happened.
Duet narration by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis was amazing. Erin was Erin. She nailed Cleo’s sweet, funny, sunshine nature and she sings! Brandon has been in my radar for a while and this is the first time I’ve had the pleasure of listening to him. He was a delight! He embodied the grumpy, workaholic, single dad who never really got over the one that got away. His comedic timing is on point, but he can deliver that growl when needed and make a girl blush.
Cleo is the perfect sunshine to Elijah’s grump, which makes for some really entertaining back and forth, spicy workplace moments, and a heartwarming bond with Paxton. Lazy wingmen appearances, an abundance of fart jokes, singing and text threads had me laughing and smiling throughout this book. This is the perfect audio to add to your holiday listening. I can’t recommend it enough.
This is the holiday audiobook based in the Name in Lights world that I didn’t know I needed. But I am SOOO happy that Kayley gave it to us.
Cleo and Elijah parted ways during film school. They are reunited when his son, Paxton, hires Cleo for a party, but in reality, she’s there to be his dad’s date at a Christmas wedding. He’s now a studio executive trying to turn a poor script around and into a blockbuster Christmas movie. Through a series of events, he hires Cleo as his temp to help with the script and things really begin to heat up. Elijah has always wondered why Cleo failed to show up years ago. Their history is told through a series of emails and it’s fantastic when Elijah discovers what really happened.
Duet narration by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis was amazing. Erin was Erin. She nailed Cleo’s sweet, funny, sunshine nature and she sings! Brandon has been in my radar for a while and this is the first time I’ve had the pleasure of listening to him. He was a delight! He embodied the grumpy, workaholic, single dad who never really got over the one that got away. His comedic timing is on point, but he can deliver that growl when needed and make a girl blush.
Cleo is the perfect sunshine to Elijah’s grump, which makes for some really entertaining back and forth, spicy workplace moments, and a heartwarming bond with Paxton. Lazy wingmen appearances, an abundance of fart jokes, singing and text threads had me laughing and smiling throughout this book. This is the perfect audio to add to your holiday listening. I can’t recommend it enough.
October 23, 2025
MerryMaker, a charming Christmas novella set in the vibrant world of the Names in Lights series, is pure holiday magic. It wraps you in festive warmth, complete with a grinchy hero and the holiday elf who melts his icy heart. I adored every minute of it.
Elijah and Cleo first collided in film school—sparks flew, tempers flared, and despite their differences, an undeniable connection simmered beneath the surface. Just as romance seemed within reach, Cleo vanished from Elijah’s life, leaving behind unresolved feelings and a lingering “what if.” Years later, fate—and Elijah’s son—conspires to reunite them. Could this be the season for second chances and a Christmas miracle?
The characters are a delight. Elijah is a Christmas curmudgeon with a serious streak and a soft spot for his son. Cleo is a whirlwind of holiday spirit, glitter, and chaos—never without a costume and always ready to push Elijah’s buttons. Their dynamic is electric: snarky, flirty banter and sizzling chemistry that leap off the page.
Narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis, the audiobook is a festive treat. Their performances bring Elijah and Cleo to life with humor, heart, and heat. I found myself laughing out loud at work, completely immersed in their bickering and banter. Short, sweet, and steamy—this story is a holiday gem, and the narration is pitch-perfect.
If you're looking for a festive escape packed with heart, humor, and holiday sparkle, MerryMaker is the perfect stocking stuffer of a story.
Elijah and Cleo first collided in film school—sparks flew, tempers flared, and despite their differences, an undeniable connection simmered beneath the surface. Just as romance seemed within reach, Cleo vanished from Elijah’s life, leaving behind unresolved feelings and a lingering “what if.” Years later, fate—and Elijah’s son—conspires to reunite them. Could this be the season for second chances and a Christmas miracle?
The characters are a delight. Elijah is a Christmas curmudgeon with a serious streak and a soft spot for his son. Cleo is a whirlwind of holiday spirit, glitter, and chaos—never without a costume and always ready to push Elijah’s buttons. Their dynamic is electric: snarky, flirty banter and sizzling chemistry that leap off the page.
Narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis, the audiobook is a festive treat. Their performances bring Elijah and Cleo to life with humor, heart, and heat. I found myself laughing out loud at work, completely immersed in their bickering and banter. Short, sweet, and steamy—this story is a holiday gem, and the narration is pitch-perfect.
If you're looking for a festive escape packed with heart, humor, and holiday sparkle, MerryMaker is the perfect stocking stuffer of a story.
November 4, 2025
Merrymaker (Name in Lights #4) by Kaylee Loring
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨🌶️🌶️🌶️
Interconnected Standalone * Holiday * Rom-Com * Grumpy/Sunshine * Second Chance * Workplace Romance * Single Dad * 142 pages * 🎧3h33
I listened to this one via audiobook which I specifically bought through the author’s website. All because I heard that Brandon Francis sings in it. What I didn’t expect was how hilarious the entire story (and audio) would be! You do get Brandon’s grumpy singing, but also Erin Mallon’s bubbly singing performance, and together they’re pure perfection. The duet narration made it even better. Perfectly cast and ridiculously fun to listen to.
Now, about the story, we’ve got our very own 'Mr. Scrooge', grumpy toward the world but absolutely devoted to his son. He’s single, successful, and still secretly longing for 'the one that was never meant to be.' Sounds angsty, right? Nope! It’s laugh-out-loud funny. I actually startled my cat from a dead sleep with my cackling (he was not impressed).
When his son meets Cleo at a kid’s birthday party (where she’s working as a birthday entertainer) he decides she’s the perfect person to cheer up his dad. So, he hires her under the pretense of performing at his mother’s holiday engagement party… except his real plan is to make her his dad’s date. Neither of them realize it until it’s way too late.
From there, it’s grumpy meets sunshine with a hefty sprinkle of holiday magic and second chances. The story is full of spice and plenty of charm. It’s light, funny, festive, and leaves you smiling the whole way through.
⭐⭐⭐⭐✨🌶️🌶️🌶️
Interconnected Standalone * Holiday * Rom-Com * Grumpy/Sunshine * Second Chance * Workplace Romance * Single Dad * 142 pages * 🎧3h33
I listened to this one via audiobook which I specifically bought through the author’s website. All because I heard that Brandon Francis sings in it. What I didn’t expect was how hilarious the entire story (and audio) would be! You do get Brandon’s grumpy singing, but also Erin Mallon’s bubbly singing performance, and together they’re pure perfection. The duet narration made it even better. Perfectly cast and ridiculously fun to listen to.
Now, about the story, we’ve got our very own 'Mr. Scrooge', grumpy toward the world but absolutely devoted to his son. He’s single, successful, and still secretly longing for 'the one that was never meant to be.' Sounds angsty, right? Nope! It’s laugh-out-loud funny. I actually startled my cat from a dead sleep with my cackling (he was not impressed).
When his son meets Cleo at a kid’s birthday party (where she’s working as a birthday entertainer) he decides she’s the perfect person to cheer up his dad. So, he hires her under the pretense of performing at his mother’s holiday engagement party… except his real plan is to make her his dad’s date. Neither of them realize it until it’s way too late.
From there, it’s grumpy meets sunshine with a hefty sprinkle of holiday magic and second chances. The story is full of spice and plenty of charm. It’s light, funny, festive, and leaves you smiling the whole way through.
December 28, 2025
Cleo is brilliantly artistic. She could easily run a profitable production company but chooses to entertain. She's a little goofy and loves it. Doesn't want to live any other way.
Elijah has rich people problems. He needs to make one more film by the end of the year, and what he's been given to work with is really bad. So... Elijah is grumpy and unhappy in general. The only ray of sunshine in his life is his son Paxton.
Elijah needs a temp to help him get his film made, and Cleo needs the money, so he hires her knowing full well she brings way more to the table than simple secretarial skills—she has production expertise and can help him get his crumby film polished and ready for production by the end of the year. Elijah and Cleo had a flirtation 8 years ago and neither has really gotten over it. One look and those feelings of lust and admiration come flooding back.
This story is really fun; there were many moments that made me lol. Cleo's character is totally carefree. Just picturing her at a wedding in an elf costume cracked me up—and she was just so blasé about it, like “Okay, let's just go with it”. She met that little boy exactly where he was at and spoke to him like an equal in a totally comfortable way.
This is a cute little holiday addition to the Name In Lights series. Doesn't take long to read and/or listen to and is just about as fun as it can be. All the elements are there for great entertainment in classic KL fashion, so read and enjoy.
Elijah has rich people problems. He needs to make one more film by the end of the year, and what he's been given to work with is really bad. So... Elijah is grumpy and unhappy in general. The only ray of sunshine in his life is his son Paxton.
Elijah needs a temp to help him get his film made, and Cleo needs the money, so he hires her knowing full well she brings way more to the table than simple secretarial skills—she has production expertise and can help him get his crumby film polished and ready for production by the end of the year. Elijah and Cleo had a flirtation 8 years ago and neither has really gotten over it. One look and those feelings of lust and admiration come flooding back.
This story is really fun; there were many moments that made me lol. Cleo's character is totally carefree. Just picturing her at a wedding in an elf costume cracked me up—and she was just so blasé about it, like “Okay, let's just go with it”. She met that little boy exactly where he was at and spoke to him like an equal in a totally comfortable way.
This is a cute little holiday addition to the Name In Lights series. Doesn't take long to read and/or listen to and is just about as fun as it can be. All the elements are there for great entertainment in classic KL fashion, so read and enjoy.
October 19, 2025
Thanks, Kayley, for the ALC!
I was delighted to see that Kayley was taking us back to the Name in Lights universe!
Elijah and Cleo were in film school together and almost had a 'thing'. But Cleo left Elijah hanging, waiting for her in a hotel room and she sort of became, to his utter annoyance, the 'one who got away". He ended up doing okay, though. He got married, had a beautiful son and then divorced his wife, with whom he's still friends. His seven year old boy, Paxton, may disagree as he is worried his dad is lonely.
We fast forward to a kid's birthday party where Cleo is the entertainer. Paxton sees and opportunity and hires her to perform at an upcoming party. She finds it adorable and says yes. See, Paxton is a smart kid and what he really wants is for Cleo to be his dad's "plus person". We all know where this is going, right? And we all know we will all get there laughing and kicking our feet in a way only Kayley can make us do.
This is second chance / enemies to lovers / holiday novella is delightful, steamy, funny and incredibly heartwarming ( The AWWWWW I let out when I found out why Cleo never went to Elijah's hotel room could be heard all over the land! )
We can always count on Kayley to also deliver top tier audiobooks and we definitely have one here. This one is narrated duet style by the lovely and ever-so-talented Erin Mallon and new to Kayleyverse Brandon Francis. Erin got a character tailor made for her and she's perfect as Cleo (and Paxton!). Brandon, welcome to the world of fart jokes, snark and swoon! You hit the ground running and fit right in!
I loved this one! It has all the signature Kayleyisms, with a grumpy but sexy single dad, a quirky heroine, an adorable seven-year-old matchmaker and - to my utter delight - the return of The Lazy Wingmen!
Happy Holidays! May your stockings be full of the good sticky notes!
I was delighted to see that Kayley was taking us back to the Name in Lights universe!
Elijah and Cleo were in film school together and almost had a 'thing'. But Cleo left Elijah hanging, waiting for her in a hotel room and she sort of became, to his utter annoyance, the 'one who got away". He ended up doing okay, though. He got married, had a beautiful son and then divorced his wife, with whom he's still friends. His seven year old boy, Paxton, may disagree as he is worried his dad is lonely.
We fast forward to a kid's birthday party where Cleo is the entertainer. Paxton sees and opportunity and hires her to perform at an upcoming party. She finds it adorable and says yes. See, Paxton is a smart kid and what he really wants is for Cleo to be his dad's "plus person". We all know where this is going, right? And we all know we will all get there laughing and kicking our feet in a way only Kayley can make us do.
This is second chance / enemies to lovers / holiday novella is delightful, steamy, funny and incredibly heartwarming ( The AWWWWW I let out when I found out why Cleo never went to Elijah's hotel room could be heard all over the land! )
We can always count on Kayley to also deliver top tier audiobooks and we definitely have one here. This one is narrated duet style by the lovely and ever-so-talented Erin Mallon and new to Kayleyverse Brandon Francis. Erin got a character tailor made for her and she's perfect as Cleo (and Paxton!). Brandon, welcome to the world of fart jokes, snark and swoon! You hit the ground running and fit right in!
I loved this one! It has all the signature Kayleyisms, with a grumpy but sexy single dad, a quirky heroine, an adorable seven-year-old matchmaker and - to my utter delight - the return of The Lazy Wingmen!
Happy Holidays! May your stockings be full of the good sticky notes!
October 25, 2025
Kayley Loring is one of my very favorite authors. And her Name in Lights series is such a treat -- all the way around. This book is no exception. The characters are all so perfect. And I love how Kayley doesn't really give us a side character to hate. Those side characters are fun, funny, and add to the story. I find myself rooting for all of them and wanting to know their stories too. I know that in most rom-coms/romances there is usually that angsty breakup moment toward the end. Huge props for Kayley for getting that out of the way even before the story actually starts! And I am very glad that finally, FINALLY, we find out a little more about what those boots look like. All I could think was “those must be some kind of boots.” I also love the peek inside the entertainment industry in this book and in all the Name in Lights books. And, because the author has a history in that industry, she makes it all so much more believable and realistic than some authors are able to. Just another book of Kayley Loring’s that I will recommend to all my romance-reading friends. And even some who might be grumpy non-fiction readers who need a little holiday happiness. Elijah and Cleo had such great chemistry. And Paxton was perfectly written. He came across like a very real 7-year-old -- complete with boogers and fart jokes.
October 27, 2025
“If anyone on this lot is going to be creepy with Cleo Jones and buy her disgusting dessert-flavored seasonal coffee drinks, it’s me.”
It’s been 8 years since Cleo and Elijah were in film school together. Cleo is back in LA after spending the last few years in New York. She’s a children’s party entertainer and loving it, in fact you can say she’s “sleighing it” 😉. So when an adorable kid hired him for a family party, she didn’t think twice. And guess who she sees at this party? Elijah! And he’s the grumpy father of the most adorable seven year old, Paxton. Now she finds herself working for him and it seems after all the years, the pull between them is as strong as ever. Could this be their second chance? Can we say Christmas Miracle?
I love grumpy single dads and Elijah did not disappoint. And as grumpy as he is, Cleo just seems to know what to say and do to make him smile. His son Paxton is such a cutie especially when he’s playing matchmaker.
Love Cleo’s lively personality and her love for all things Christmas.
This was such a fun read! Love seeing the Lazy Wingmen!! If you haven’t met them, make sure to read the Name in the Lights series!
I love this second chance romance with the grumpy Elijah and the sunshine Cleo! All the holiday feels complete with mistletoe kisses and spicy fun!
It’s been 8 years since Cleo and Elijah were in film school together. Cleo is back in LA after spending the last few years in New York. She’s a children’s party entertainer and loving it, in fact you can say she’s “sleighing it” 😉. So when an adorable kid hired him for a family party, she didn’t think twice. And guess who she sees at this party? Elijah! And he’s the grumpy father of the most adorable seven year old, Paxton. Now she finds herself working for him and it seems after all the years, the pull between them is as strong as ever. Could this be their second chance? Can we say Christmas Miracle?
I love grumpy single dads and Elijah did not disappoint. And as grumpy as he is, Cleo just seems to know what to say and do to make him smile. His son Paxton is such a cutie especially when he’s playing matchmaker.
Love Cleo’s lively personality and her love for all things Christmas.
This was such a fun read! Love seeing the Lazy Wingmen!! If you haven’t met them, make sure to read the Name in the Lights series!
I love this second chance romance with the grumpy Elijah and the sunshine Cleo! All the holiday feels complete with mistletoe kisses and spicy fun!
October 29, 2025
Kayley Loring’s MerryMaker is pure holiday magic wrapped in a grumpy single-dad bow—and it’s exactly the fun, flirty, feel-good novella I needed to kick off the Christmas spirit! 🎄✨
From the moment Cleo (sunshine personified) crashes into Elijah’s grumpy orbit, the sparks fly hotter than chestnuts on an open fire. Add in adorable Paxton—whose kid-logic and heart-melting one-liners steal every scene—and you’ve got a trio that’ll make you laugh, swoon, and ugly-cry into your eggnog. Loring nails the single-dad trope with zero clichés: Elijah’s gruff exterior hides a heart that melts under Cleo’s chaotic charm, and their banter is chef’s kiss levels of witty.
Clocking in at novella length, MerryMaker doesn’t waste a word. The pacing is snappy, the steam is sizzly (🔥🔥🔥)—especially that supply-room scene where locked doors, tangled tinsel, and whispered “we shouldn’t” turn into the hottest holiday hookup imaginable—and the Christmas vibes? Immaculate. Twinkly lights, snowed-in tension, and a grand gesture that had me kicking my feet like a teenager.
If you’ve devoured Loring’s other Name in Lights books, this is a must-read.
Grab your hot cocoa, curl up, and let MerryMaker jingle your bells. 🎅❤️ I received an ARC from the author and I'm leaving this review to help others find this fabulous story ... and author!
From the moment Cleo (sunshine personified) crashes into Elijah’s grumpy orbit, the sparks fly hotter than chestnuts on an open fire. Add in adorable Paxton—whose kid-logic and heart-melting one-liners steal every scene—and you’ve got a trio that’ll make you laugh, swoon, and ugly-cry into your eggnog. Loring nails the single-dad trope with zero clichés: Elijah’s gruff exterior hides a heart that melts under Cleo’s chaotic charm, and their banter is chef’s kiss levels of witty.
Clocking in at novella length, MerryMaker doesn’t waste a word. The pacing is snappy, the steam is sizzly (🔥🔥🔥)—especially that supply-room scene where locked doors, tangled tinsel, and whispered “we shouldn’t” turn into the hottest holiday hookup imaginable—and the Christmas vibes? Immaculate. Twinkly lights, snowed-in tension, and a grand gesture that had me kicking my feet like a teenager.
If you’ve devoured Loring’s other Name in Lights books, this is a must-read.
Grab your hot cocoa, curl up, and let MerryMaker jingle your bells. 🎅❤️ I received an ARC from the author and I'm leaving this review to help others find this fabulous story ... and author!
October 16, 2025
I had so much fun listening to this entertaining, hilarious, and heartfelt holiday romance. Grumpy, single dad, Elijah, is in a pinch trying to make a terrible idea into a holiday hit. When his adorable seven year old son, Paxton, sees Cleo, a hilarious entertainer at a kids party, he hires her to work at his mother's wedding. When Cleo arrives to work the party, she and Elijah are surprised that sneaky Paxton actually arranged it so Cleo would be Elijah's date, not knowing their complicated history. Cleo and Elijah were rivals in film school, who worked well together and their attraction and chemistry was explosive. But when their careers took them in different parts of the country, it broke both their hearts. Now that Cleo is back, can she help Elijah create another hit, and help each other find a second chance at love? I loved the hilarious, push-pull tension between Cleo and Elijah, and how they helped each other find their way back to each other. I also loved Paxton and all their quirky family and friends who are so hilarious, and supportive, making this story even more entertaining and heartwarming.
Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis did a great job narrating this delightful romance and bringing it to life. I love their humor, and chemistry, and their easy ability to make this holiday story of fated love bring laughter and joy as it warmed my heart.
Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis did a great job narrating this delightful romance and bringing it to life. I love their humor, and chemistry, and their easy ability to make this holiday story of fated love bring laughter and joy as it warmed my heart.
October 20, 2025
Merrymaker is a single dad, second chance / enemies to lovers / workplace romance full of grumpiness and sassyness and sparkled with Christmas holiday spirit. This book is part of the Name in Lights universe, which is one of my top favorite series from this author, and it is not a surprise to say that it did not disappoint. It was short but so sweet.
Elijah may come up in the beginning as grumpy but when you see how much love and devotion he has for his son (who is just so adorable and he is the one who puts the second chance meet in motion) you just can't help but fall in love with him. The father-son relationship was just too cute and it melted my heart. Chloe is awesome. I just love how Kayley writes confident, sassy women. Elijah and Chloe's personalities are very opposite but complement each other perfectly.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC for this book but since the Audiobook had an early release in the author's page, I read and listened at the same time. Brandon Francis was new to me but I knew he would be great for this part because all of Kayley's Audiobooks are just *chef's kiss*. Erin Mallon is just perfection! Their voices fit the characters, and the emotions came through in every scene (including the sounds and the singing!). It was fantastic.
Elijah may come up in the beginning as grumpy but when you see how much love and devotion he has for his son (who is just so adorable and he is the one who puts the second chance meet in motion) you just can't help but fall in love with him. The father-son relationship was just too cute and it melted my heart. Chloe is awesome. I just love how Kayley writes confident, sassy women. Elijah and Chloe's personalities are very opposite but complement each other perfectly.
I was fortunate to receive an ARC for this book but since the Audiobook had an early release in the author's page, I read and listened at the same time. Brandon Francis was new to me but I knew he would be great for this part because all of Kayley's Audiobooks are just *chef's kiss*. Erin Mallon is just perfection! Their voices fit the characters, and the emotions came through in every scene (including the sounds and the singing!). It was fantastic.
October 29, 2025
Merrymaker is the perfect Christmas novella that brings all the holiday spirit! It is filled with witty banter, a lovable heroine who lives for Christmas, a swoony single dad who isn’t as grumpy as he would like people to believe, and his adorable son who is masterful at mistletoe matchmaking mayhem. Cleo and Elijah haven’t seen each other since film school when life got in the way of their would-be romance. Years later, they meet again and end up working together on a Christmas movie script. The sparks are still flying and so is the fun. Their love story is sprinkled with heartfelt emails, incredible chemistry, hilarious fart jokes, and wonderful rhymes. One of many highlights is a hysterical appearance by the Lazy Wingmen from the Name in Lights series. You will be smiling the whole way through and even beyond the epilogue!
Not only is this wonderful story such a delight, but so is the audio! Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis expertly bring these characters to life. The humor is made even funnier with their expert comedic timing and inflection. They also bring all the heat and so much heart. You won’t want to miss this delightful holiday listen that will leave you believing in love and the magic of Christmas!
Not only is this wonderful story such a delight, but so is the audio! Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis expertly bring these characters to life. The humor is made even funnier with their expert comedic timing and inflection. They also bring all the heat and so much heart. You won’t want to miss this delightful holiday listen that will leave you believing in love and the magic of Christmas!
October 31, 2025
There is funny, then there is Kayley Loring’s level of funny. I always enjoy her books.
Cleo has a variety of jobs and she enjoys and excels at all of them. She is a very quirky character; pretty clever and creative. I loved her!
Elijah is surprised when Paxton, his son, offers up Cleo as his father’s date for the night. Paxton has the best intentions. He doesn’t know his father and the lady dressed up like an elf have a shared history. He likes the elf outfit but what really draws him in is those boots. He remembers those boots. Elijah is grumpy with dry humor. I read his part with a New York accent even though he is living in California. I saw him as a typical New Yorker.
Their banter is fun and their email exchanges are so entertaining. Together they are a hysterical couple. I loved everything about them.
I smiled when I read the references to The Wizards of Waverly. They were great characters in fun books. That’s where I got my love of “pocket snacks” from.
I am afraid if I ever met Kayley Loring I would go total fan girl on her. I love her writing and her characters. Her books always make me smile and laugh. This book was really good. If you want a fun holiday story, this is it.
Cleo has a variety of jobs and she enjoys and excels at all of them. She is a very quirky character; pretty clever and creative. I loved her!
Elijah is surprised when Paxton, his son, offers up Cleo as his father’s date for the night. Paxton has the best intentions. He doesn’t know his father and the lady dressed up like an elf have a shared history. He likes the elf outfit but what really draws him in is those boots. He remembers those boots. Elijah is grumpy with dry humor. I read his part with a New York accent even though he is living in California. I saw him as a typical New Yorker.
Their banter is fun and their email exchanges are so entertaining. Together they are a hysterical couple. I loved everything about them.
I smiled when I read the references to The Wizards of Waverly. They were great characters in fun books. That’s where I got my love of “pocket snacks” from.
I am afraid if I ever met Kayley Loring I would go total fan girl on her. I love her writing and her characters. Her books always make me smile and laugh. This book was really good. If you want a fun holiday story, this is it.
October 27, 2025
Kayley never lets us down! I was in a ROUGH reading rut before getting the ALC of Merrymaker. This Christmassy rom-com was just what I needed to remind me why I love reading. It’s a second chance, (semi)enemies-to-lovers, grumpy/sunshine masterpiece. The personality that all of Kayley’s characters exude always blows me away. I have to constantly remind myself that they aren’t real people because I can see her stories playing out in my head like a movie. Elijah and Cleo have impeccable banter. The sassiness from both characters was probably my favorite part of the entire story. Cleo is quirky and Eli is dry yet humorous.
Now, the real star of the show: Elijah’s son, Paxton Abrams. Paxton is a professional matchmaker at the ripe age of 8 years old. He meets Cleo while she is working as the children’s party entertainment at one of his friend’s birthday parties. Their bonding moment? A fart joke. What more do you need?! Paxton is a mastermind and decides to “hire” Cleo as entertainment for a party at his mom’s house later that day. Unbeknownst to literally everyone else he’s got a trick up his sleeve, and if he plays his cards right he may just pull off the best trick in the book.
Now, the real star of the show: Elijah’s son, Paxton Abrams. Paxton is a professional matchmaker at the ripe age of 8 years old. He meets Cleo while she is working as the children’s party entertainment at one of his friend’s birthday parties. Their bonding moment? A fart joke. What more do you need?! Paxton is a mastermind and decides to “hire” Cleo as entertainment for a party at his mom’s house later that day. Unbeknownst to literally everyone else he’s got a trick up his sleeve, and if he plays his cards right he may just pull off the best trick in the book.
October 27, 2025
Kayley Loring has written a hot holiday novella that really gets you in the feels, and delivers Grinch meets Elf vibes that will leave you smiling for all twelve days of Christmas. This addition to the Name in Lights series is definitely worthy of the originals that introduced us to The Lazy Wingmen.
Elijah and Cleo almost had their moment years ago, but their time had passed. Neither of them forgot the other, though. Elijah is determined to just focus on his son, rather than find love and holiday cheer for himself. Little does he know that his son is going to give him the BEST GIFT EVER - an unexpected second chance with Cleo!
Cleo is a whirlwind of Christmas cheer, holiday lights, tinsel and eggnog to Elijah's lump of coal, but Elijah is really such a good guy at heart, and he just needs a spark to remind him of what love feels like. Their banter is off the charts, they chemistry is just as sparky as it was all those years ago, and their connection is real. When Cleo lets Elijah in on why they missed their chance, he can't help but fall for her more!
The audio, narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis, is amazing. I feel like Erin Mallon is a perfect Cleo, embodying all of the love for the season and good intentions. Brandon Francis gives us all of the layers of Elijah, giving us an instant connection to the grinch that's not really a grinch at all.
A+ work all around - Kayley wrote a perfect holiday romcom.
Elijah and Cleo almost had their moment years ago, but their time had passed. Neither of them forgot the other, though. Elijah is determined to just focus on his son, rather than find love and holiday cheer for himself. Little does he know that his son is going to give him the BEST GIFT EVER - an unexpected second chance with Cleo!
Cleo is a whirlwind of Christmas cheer, holiday lights, tinsel and eggnog to Elijah's lump of coal, but Elijah is really such a good guy at heart, and he just needs a spark to remind him of what love feels like. Their banter is off the charts, they chemistry is just as sparky as it was all those years ago, and their connection is real. When Cleo lets Elijah in on why they missed their chance, he can't help but fall for her more!
The audio, narrated by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis, is amazing. I feel like Erin Mallon is a perfect Cleo, embodying all of the love for the season and good intentions. Brandon Francis gives us all of the layers of Elijah, giving us an instant connection to the grinch that's not really a grinch at all.
A+ work all around - Kayley wrote a perfect holiday romcom.
October 28, 2025
Listening to the audiobook of Merrymaker was an absolute delight. In addition to the fantastic performances by Erin Mallon and Brandon Francis, Kayley Loring's story was full of heart and romance. There aren't a lot of people who can have children in a book without making it all about them. But when Kayley puts a child in her book, it's always an important plot point and you can feel that that child is part of the relationship that's building.
Like Resistance Training, this book features Kayley's with, voice, and imagination. She is a true storyteller who brings comedy to romance in a genuine, adorable way. She keeps you captivated by silliness, but it's always silliness that fits the story and the characters. It's never crazy. It feels like something that might happen in our lives; that ridiculous friend you love to spend time with.
This is a book that I will listen to over and over again. Chloe is creative and fun. Who knew fart jokes fit in Christmas songs?! Elijah is broody, but down to earth. Chloe and Elijah were so much fun and I loved their journey to happily ever after!
Also, Brandon Francis's voice was down right delicious! Great call!
Like Resistance Training, this book features Kayley's with, voice, and imagination. She is a true storyteller who brings comedy to romance in a genuine, adorable way. She keeps you captivated by silliness, but it's always silliness that fits the story and the characters. It's never crazy. It feels like something that might happen in our lives; that ridiculous friend you love to spend time with.
This is a book that I will listen to over and over again. Chloe is creative and fun. Who knew fart jokes fit in Christmas songs?! Elijah is broody, but down to earth. Chloe and Elijah were so much fun and I loved their journey to happily ever after!
Also, Brandon Francis's voice was down right delicious! Great call!
October 28, 2025
Merrymaker will definitely will get anyone into the holiday spirit! It's a collision course for the grumpiest of grumps when he reconnects with the most spirited holiday hostess around! So much fun reading of Cleo Jones and Elijah Abrams second chance with this single dad and his very sweet son, Payton trying to play match maker. With a horrific script in need of editing and producing and the grumpiest time of year for Elijah, Cleo has more than plenty holiday cheer to spread and share
An accidental invitation by a child at one of the parties Cleo is entertaining at, turns into a second chance with her film school rival from 8 years ago. Could things be different this time around? Cleo and Payton will have to try and melt Elijah's icy heart first. And thanks to a blackmail voicemail for a job, Elijah's in for a cheerful elf-tastic temp secretary will be sticking around at least for a little while. With storage closet shenanigans, elves popping up around Elijah's office and a sweet-on-Cleo security guard there's a ton of merry making to go around.
An accidental invitation by a child at one of the parties Cleo is entertaining at, turns into a second chance with her film school rival from 8 years ago. Could things be different this time around? Cleo and Payton will have to try and melt Elijah's icy heart first. And thanks to a blackmail voicemail for a job, Elijah's in for a cheerful elf-tastic temp secretary will be sticking around at least for a little while. With storage closet shenanigans, elves popping up around Elijah's office and a sweet-on-Cleo security guard there's a ton of merry making to go around.
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