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Mistletoe Mail
A STEAMY HOLIDAY ROMANCE FULL OF ANGST, BANTER AND CHRISTMAS SPIRIT ’Twas ten days before Christmas, and along came a note.
Something quite different to what he previously wrote.
The timing was perfect, she had nowhere to be,
So she boarded a plane to another country.
Her arrival most shocking, she caused quite a stir,
But soon lines were crossed, and boundaries a blur.
He may have been grumpy, but he had Christmas spirit,
It was she who had reached her festive joy limit.
She wasn’t looking for love, soulmates didn’t exist,
But it was hard to deny the spark when they kissed.
It started off slowly, until feelings did grow,
Sometimes all it takes is a little mistletoe.
Mistletoe Mail is an opposites attract holiday romance with an Australian MMC and American FMC.
Something quite different to what he previously wrote.
The timing was perfect, she had nowhere to be,
So she boarded a plane to another country.
Her arrival most shocking, she caused quite a stir,
But soon lines were crossed, and boundaries a blur.
He may have been grumpy, but he had Christmas spirit,
It was she who had reached her festive joy limit.
She wasn’t looking for love, soulmates didn’t exist,
But it was hard to deny the spark when they kissed.
It started off slowly, until feelings did grow,
Sometimes all it takes is a little mistletoe.
Mistletoe Mail is an opposites attract holiday romance with an Australian MMC and American FMC.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 1, 2025
20 people are currently reading
168 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
December 5, 2025
ᴍɪꜱᴛʟᴇᴛᴏᴇ ᴍᴀɪʟ ʙʏ ᴋᴀᴛʜᴇʀɪɴᴇ ᴊᴀʏ
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
This was such a delightful read! It’s quick, adorable, and sweet, yet it also has enough tension and longing to draw you in. Jenna and Mason's chemistry is so obvious, and even though it's a novella, their relationship develops nicely.
Jenna's best friends with Jack, and they’ve been exchanging letters for years. But when Jack's latest letter crosses a line that friends usually don’t share, Jenna decides to fly to Australia to confront him. Once there, she meets Mason, Jack's older brother. Mason might come off as grumpy and rude at first, but Jenna can't help feeling drawn to him. As they spend more days together, their bond grows stronger.
I loved how Jenna's cheerful personality perfectly balances Mason's grumpiness. Their playful teasing is so much fun, especially Jenna’s playful way of trying to get under his skin. Mason may seem like a tough, reserved guy, but he's also a big softie at heart. I adored those moments when he couldn't say no to Jenna and showed how caring he was towards her. Mason and Jenna make such a cute pair, and there are some spicy moments too! This book makes for a perfect holiday read. It's short, sweet, and full of festive charm.
4/5⭐
2/5🌶️
This was such a delightful read! It’s quick, adorable, and sweet, yet it also has enough tension and longing to draw you in. Jenna and Mason's chemistry is so obvious, and even though it's a novella, their relationship develops nicely.
Jenna's best friends with Jack, and they’ve been exchanging letters for years. But when Jack's latest letter crosses a line that friends usually don’t share, Jenna decides to fly to Australia to confront him. Once there, she meets Mason, Jack's older brother. Mason might come off as grumpy and rude at first, but Jenna can't help feeling drawn to him. As they spend more days together, their bond grows stronger.
I loved how Jenna's cheerful personality perfectly balances Mason's grumpiness. Their playful teasing is so much fun, especially Jenna’s playful way of trying to get under his skin. Mason may seem like a tough, reserved guy, but he's also a big softie at heart. I adored those moments when he couldn't say no to Jenna and showed how caring he was towards her. Mason and Jenna make such a cute pair, and there are some spicy moments too! This book makes for a perfect holiday read. It's short, sweet, and full of festive charm.
December 1, 2025
Everything about this book was absolutely perfect! I was pleasantly shocked with the surprise towards the end with the letters. Mason & Jenna were absolutely adorable together. They not only had an instantaneous spark together but their personalities matched perfectly. Jenna was down to earth, sweet, and playful where Mason was arrogant, sassy, and rough around the edges. From the very beginning, you knew that these two together were going to burn fiercely for each other. The pen pal letters was a super cute idea for this story and the book length was perfect. Absolutely adorable story!
November 24, 2025
This was such a sweet and fun little holiday novella. The banter was top notch. The perfect lil read for the Christmas season. He's Australian and she's American, and the sparks were flying from that very first encounter 🔥
A letter has Jenna flying half way across the world to Australia to Jack. But what she didn't expect was his hot, grumpy brother, Mason, to answer the door 🤭 wait until you read what the letter said 😏
Hot Aussie guy wearing a Santa coat and handing out toys? on a motorbike? And a little alley hookup with said guy wearing Santa coat? 🤭😮💨🔥🫦 Say less!
Full of lots of laugh out loud moments, lots of tension, and the perfect amount of spice 🔥 I ate this up and definitely recommend adding this to your Christmas tbr 🎄
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁-
🎄Grumpy x sunshine
🩷He falls first
🎄Letter exchanging
🩷Opposites attract
🎄Holiday romance based in Australia
A letter has Jenna flying half way across the world to Australia to Jack. But what she didn't expect was his hot, grumpy brother, Mason, to answer the door 🤭 wait until you read what the letter said 😏
Hot Aussie guy wearing a Santa coat and handing out toys? on a motorbike? And a little alley hookup with said guy wearing Santa coat? 🤭😮💨🔥🫦 Say less!
Full of lots of laugh out loud moments, lots of tension, and the perfect amount of spice 🔥 I ate this up and definitely recommend adding this to your Christmas tbr 🎄
𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗰𝘁-
🎄Grumpy x sunshine
🩷He falls first
🎄Letter exchanging
🩷Opposites attract
🎄Holiday romance based in Australia
December 11, 2025
loved it
First time reading Katherine Jay books and it won’t be the last.
This grumpy/ sunshine holiday romance hit every spot I love when reading a book.
Katherine has written both main characters perfectly I love sassy Jenna and you can’t not love Mason he may be grumpy but there is another side to this guy and his 😍
There connection was off the chat as soon as there first meet the steamy scenes are🔥
Going jump into the hockey series to see Bailey and haley stories
For me it’s 5🌟
First time reading Katherine Jay books and it won’t be the last.
This grumpy/ sunshine holiday romance hit every spot I love when reading a book.
Katherine has written both main characters perfectly I love sassy Jenna and you can’t not love Mason he may be grumpy but there is another side to this guy and his 😍
There connection was off the chat as soon as there first meet the steamy scenes are🔥
Going jump into the hockey series to see Bailey and haley stories
For me it’s 5🌟
November 23, 2025
What a great little Christmas Novella. Was a quick and east read. Mason had my whole heart though. I really enjoyed his character and Jenna was just perfect with her witty comebacks.
Thank you @katherinejayauthor for a perfect xmas read
Thank you @katherinejayauthor for a perfect xmas read
November 20, 2025
i love that katherine's holiday novella wasnt as angsty as her normal romances, but it still packed a punch.
Jenna and Mason had wicked chemistry and it was a wonder that they gave into it when they did.. they sure lasted longer than i'd have originally thought.
Thank you Katherine for an advanced copy.
Jenna and Mason had wicked chemistry and it was a wonder that they gave into it when they did.. they sure lasted longer than i'd have originally thought.
Thank you Katherine for an advanced copy.
November 18, 2025
Well, if Katherine Jay doesn't make me scream I don't want it. (it's never happened otherwise). What do I say about this cute novella, when you start to read this story you think it's going a certain way and then BAM!! You are so wrong. It's like expecting the unexpected. And this hit all the right spots. An American and an Australian, wow talk about sparks flying but i don't want to give in but I will. Oh man it was so sexy, sassy , hot , funny and romantic. I was giggling and gasping as I read this novella, perfect.
December 2, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
complicated family dynamics, abandonment, death of loved ones (off page, discussed on page)
Where’s the Hallmark movie contract?! THIS is what I wanna see on the screen! It’s fun, full of heart, (maybe a little too steamy for Hallmark), and the right balance of holiday cheer to heartfelt connections between strangers. But are they strangers? I felt like I knew them, and they definitely felt the same way about each other. Jenna is the kind of friend you hope for. She’s 100% all in. Especially if it meant ignoring her own things…I need to squeeze her! Mason…well, I wanna squeeze him too. Even if he won’t like it. That big all grouch! But he’s truly just a softy protecting himself. Jeez my heart! And his softness truly shows with the way he cares for Jenna. In all the selfless, little things. There’s motorcycles, and beaches, and Santas, and letters, and “f-k it”! All the things on my Christmas list!
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Do it. I need you to touch me.”
• “I’ll take anything you’re willing to give me, but it needs to be real.”
• “I knew you’d taste good, but this… You just became my new favourite meal.”
• “I need this p!ssy like my next breath.”
• “I hope you’ve fallen for my charms, because God knows, I’m head over heels for yours.”
• “Thank you for being unapologetically you.”
• “I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to how incredible you feel. How perfectly mine.”
• “I think you’re going to be good for me.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Forced Proximity
4/10 Friends to Lovers
6/10 Second Chance
Trigger Warnings include:
complicated family dynamics, abandonment, death of loved ones (off page, discussed on page)
Where’s the Hallmark movie contract?! THIS is what I wanna see on the screen! It’s fun, full of heart, (maybe a little too steamy for Hallmark), and the right balance of holiday cheer to heartfelt connections between strangers. But are they strangers? I felt like I knew them, and they definitely felt the same way about each other. Jenna is the kind of friend you hope for. She’s 100% all in. Especially if it meant ignoring her own things…I need to squeeze her! Mason…well, I wanna squeeze him too. Even if he won’t like it. That big all grouch! But he’s truly just a softy protecting himself. Jeez my heart! And his softness truly shows with the way he cares for Jenna. In all the selfless, little things. There’s motorcycles, and beaches, and Santas, and letters, and “f-k it”! All the things on my Christmas list!
My Favorite Quotes:
• “Do it. I need you to touch me.”
• “I’ll take anything you’re willing to give me, but it needs to be real.”
• “I knew you’d taste good, but this… You just became my new favourite meal.”
• “I need this p!ssy like my next breath.”
• “I hope you’ve fallen for my charms, because God knows, I’m head over heels for yours.”
• “Thank you for being unapologetically you.”
• “I’m not sure I’ll ever get used to how incredible you feel. How perfectly mine.”
• “I think you’re going to be good for me.”
7/10 Dirty Birdy
5/10 Forced Proximity
4/10 Friends to Lovers
6/10 Second Chance
November 23, 2025
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
What you can expect:
🎄Holiday
💌Letter Exchange
🎄Opposite Attract
💌He falls first
🎄grumpy x sunshine
💌Australian MMC
🎄American FMC
💌age gap
Mistletoe Mail is a sweet and cute Novella just in time for the holidays. I love anything about pen pals and this one is no exception, when you think you know what is gonna happen or what is going on Katherine throws a little twist in for fun.
This was in fact a short read but it packed a lot into the story. The characters were so easy to root for. They both have had crap dealt depth to them in their lives that made them deeper as characters.
The MMC is such a grumpy man but underneath that tough exterior there’s more to him and as you get to know him you see his softer more vulnerable side come out. Jenna, well she pretends like nothing ever phases her. She’s a fun, and has a big heart and is living in LA as an actress but still hides her insecurities.
I really don't want to give anything away in this review
I was hooked from the very beginning, I couldn't put it down. They had an chemistry, terrific banter and I wanted more. Highly recommend
What you can expect:
🎄Holiday
💌Letter Exchange
🎄Opposite Attract
💌He falls first
🎄grumpy x sunshine
💌Australian MMC
🎄American FMC
💌age gap
Mistletoe Mail is a sweet and cute Novella just in time for the holidays. I love anything about pen pals and this one is no exception, when you think you know what is gonna happen or what is going on Katherine throws a little twist in for fun.
This was in fact a short read but it packed a lot into the story. The characters were so easy to root for. They both have had crap dealt depth to them in their lives that made them deeper as characters.
The MMC is such a grumpy man but underneath that tough exterior there’s more to him and as you get to know him you see his softer more vulnerable side come out. Jenna, well she pretends like nothing ever phases her. She’s a fun, and has a big heart and is living in LA as an actress but still hides her insecurities.
I really don't want to give anything away in this review
I was hooked from the very beginning, I couldn't put it down. They had an chemistry, terrific banter and I wanted more. Highly recommend
December 2, 2025
Are you looking for a short Christmas romance full of banter, angst, and Christmas spirit? Your search is over. 😏
Jenna and her college friend Jack from Australia have been writing letters to each other during the holidays for years. Jack's last letter makes Jenna seriously consider finally visiting him after all this time. She has no plans for Christmas and would be alone in LA anyway—so why not?!
The story was much too short for me; I could have read much, much more about the two of them 😍. The less than 200 pages are filled with banter, emotions, spice, and rediscovering one's own happiness.
I was very surprised by a development in the story at first, but it quickly became clear that this was the right choice. ❤️
Jenna and her college friend Jack from Australia have been writing letters to each other during the holidays for years. Jack's last letter makes Jenna seriously consider finally visiting him after all this time. She has no plans for Christmas and would be alone in LA anyway—so why not?!
The story was much too short for me; I could have read much, much more about the two of them 😍. The less than 200 pages are filled with banter, emotions, spice, and rediscovering one's own happiness.
I was very surprised by a development in the story at first, but it quickly became clear that this was the right choice. ❤️
November 23, 2025
This is a great novella to accompany the San Francisco series. I was expecting this to go a certain way but then it took a completely different direction to what I was thinking but in a good way. This is a Christmas setting but in Australia so if you are after snowy scenes in cabins and log fires then you won’t find here but I enjoyed this as it was a refreshing change and I love the series this is connected too! The characters are great. I don’t want to say too much because of accidentally letting slip spoilers. It has some spice perhaps not as much as other books Katherine has wrote but this is a novella so probably expected. Characters won’t disappoint though 🔥
This has just made me want to read Zane and Blair’s story even more now 😜🥰
This has just made me want to read Zane and Blair’s story even more now 😜🥰
December 2, 2025
Looking for a holiday novellas to read this month? Look no further than Mistletoe Mail by Katherine Jay.
What you can expect….
🎄Christmas romance
🩷Opposites attract
💌 Letter exchange
🎄Grumpy / Sunshine
🩷Australian MMC and American FMC
💌He falls first
Starting this it didn’t quite head in the direction I thought it would from the opening pages, but as soon as I met the MMC I was pleasantly surprised at the little twist and intrigued to see it all unfold.
This was fun, quick and easy read with some festive spice perfect for the season. I loved Mason. They say to be seen is to be loved and Mason is the perfect example of that. 🩷
What you can expect….
🎄Christmas romance
🩷Opposites attract
💌 Letter exchange
🎄Grumpy / Sunshine
🩷Australian MMC and American FMC
💌He falls first
Starting this it didn’t quite head in the direction I thought it would from the opening pages, but as soon as I met the MMC I was pleasantly surprised at the little twist and intrigued to see it all unfold.
This was fun, quick and easy read with some festive spice perfect for the season. I loved Mason. They say to be seen is to be loved and Mason is the perfect example of that. 🩷
November 21, 2025
This read was so cute, fun, addicting and these main characters are a perfect match-especially when neither are look for anything long term.
Don’t be fooled-as sweet and fast-paced as this novella was, it still had a touch of angst we know and love from this author! We even got a little twist to the story that I was beyond excited about!
These characters are so easy to love! They both have such depth and their own meaningful stories for a short read. I loved them together! Just wait until you meet the MMC, he is so much more than meets the eye and I loved every layer of him he shows to Jenna! And Jenna-she is fun, outgoing, has the biggest heart- but also has her own insecurities that I found relatable.
I was hooked from the very first page, I couldn’t put it down. The chemistry, banter, flirting and laughs were amazing.
I highly recommend this one if your looking for a holiday romance, opposites attract and bonus-letters are exchanged! It’s a must read!
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for the copy of this book. This review and its opinions are my own
Don’t be fooled-as sweet and fast-paced as this novella was, it still had a touch of angst we know and love from this author! We even got a little twist to the story that I was beyond excited about!
These characters are so easy to love! They both have such depth and their own meaningful stories for a short read. I loved them together! Just wait until you meet the MMC, he is so much more than meets the eye and I loved every layer of him he shows to Jenna! And Jenna-she is fun, outgoing, has the biggest heart- but also has her own insecurities that I found relatable.
I was hooked from the very first page, I couldn’t put it down. The chemistry, banter, flirting and laughs were amazing.
I highly recommend this one if your looking for a holiday romance, opposites attract and bonus-letters are exchanged! It’s a must read!
5⭐️
**thank you to the author for the copy of this book. This review and its opinions are my own
November 19, 2025
— ARC REVIEW —
6⭐️
I gratefully received the early copy of this book. I am still new to the Katherine Jay universe but every single book I have had the privilege to read has made me giggle, scream and squeal.
Mistletoe Mail is an adorable cute fun novella, it is unpredictable and you end up expecting the unexpected. The sparks, the chemistry everything was perfect and I enjoyed curling up and reading this book, the last couple of evenings.
For being such a short read, there were so much depth to the characters stories. I am not normally a holiday romance reader but this book, just did all that I needed and more! I highly recommend this for a short holiday romance read, and for those who are unsure if holiday romances are for them!
5⭐️ because 6⭐️ is not doable!
6⭐️
I gratefully received the early copy of this book. I am still new to the Katherine Jay universe but every single book I have had the privilege to read has made me giggle, scream and squeal.
Mistletoe Mail is an adorable cute fun novella, it is unpredictable and you end up expecting the unexpected. The sparks, the chemistry everything was perfect and I enjoyed curling up and reading this book, the last couple of evenings.
For being such a short read, there were so much depth to the characters stories. I am not normally a holiday romance reader but this book, just did all that I needed and more! I highly recommend this for a short holiday romance read, and for those who are unsure if holiday romances are for them!
5⭐️ because 6⭐️ is not doable!
November 23, 2025
4.5⭐️
I loved this book so much!!
I love a good novella and add in Christmas? Yes, please.
Jenna meets the junky, Australian, Jack in college and a friendship develops. Instead of exchanging phone numbers, they decide to write each other a few times a year…..for 8 years!!!
Things aren’t always what they seem. 🥰I’m glad I went in blind.
Thank you to Katherine Jay for the E-arc!!
I loved this book so much!!
I love a good novella and add in Christmas? Yes, please.
Jenna meets the junky, Australian, Jack in college and a friendship develops. Instead of exchanging phone numbers, they decide to write each other a few times a year…..for 8 years!!!
Things aren’t always what they seem. 🥰I’m glad I went in blind.
Thank you to Katherine Jay for the E-arc!!
November 20, 2025
This was every bit of a Katherine Jay book packed into a little novella and I loved every minute of it.
I love that most of the story was a whirlwind you’d expect out of a novella but the last few chapters read like an epilogue so you really felt like you got a complete story. It was a cute Christmas story but still had the emotion and angst Katherine is so good at.
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for my review.
I love that most of the story was a whirlwind you’d expect out of a novella but the last few chapters read like an epilogue so you really felt like you got a complete story. It was a cute Christmas story but still had the emotion and angst Katherine is so good at.
Thank you to the author for this ARC in exchange for my review.
December 5, 2025
Wow, I loved this book and certainly didn't see it going the way it did. I loved the whole penpal thing between Jenna and Jack and then when she flies to Australia to see him she meets his grumpy older brother Mason where there is definite chemistry. I loved the buildup and the whole storyline and the twist that I didn't see coming.
December 1, 2025
When Jenna receives a holiday letter from her longtime pen pal, something feels… off. So what does she do? She hops on a plane and flies halfway around the world to find out what’s going on. But when she arrives, it isn’t him who steals the spotlight. It’s his brother, Mason, who sees her more clearly than anyone has in a long time.
Mason, our gruff, cranky, ridiculously handsome Australian who somehow manages to remind Jenna exactly what the magic of Christmas feels like. Honestly, can this man put on a Santa hat for two seconds so I can sit on his lap and whisper what I want? I fell hard for him.
And Jenna. She was a lil wildcard, I loved her just as much. Watching her rediscover the joy of christmas was everything. Together, the two of them were simply beautiful. Not perfect, just real. Two people who were hurting in different ways, finding something healing in each other without even trying.
Katherine delivers every single time. Seriously, every book floors me, and this one was no exception. An insanely cute Christmas read with all the cozy feels and all the spice (it was HOT). My only complaint - It’s a novella. Which means I need more.
Mason, our gruff, cranky, ridiculously handsome Australian who somehow manages to remind Jenna exactly what the magic of Christmas feels like. Honestly, can this man put on a Santa hat for two seconds so I can sit on his lap and whisper what I want? I fell hard for him.
And Jenna. She was a lil wildcard, I loved her just as much. Watching her rediscover the joy of christmas was everything. Together, the two of them were simply beautiful. Not perfect, just real. Two people who were hurting in different ways, finding something healing in each other without even trying.
Katherine delivers every single time. Seriously, every book floors me, and this one was no exception. An insanely cute Christmas read with all the cozy feels and all the spice (it was HOT). My only complaint - It’s a novella. Which means I need more.
November 21, 2025
This is a Hallmark Vibes Christmas themed Contemporary Romance.
I loved this, I went in blind and without giving too much away, I like where the plot went.
Loved the tension build up, character progression and back stories were less involved but works well for a Novella.
Nothing too deep here, light and fun.
I loved this, I went in blind and without giving too much away, I like where the plot went.
Loved the tension build up, character progression and back stories were less involved but works well for a Novella.
Nothing too deep here, light and fun.
November 21, 2025
I swear if Katherine writes it I’m going to read it full stop. I love a pen pals trope. And I love the curve balls, you think one thing and Katherine’s just like “oh you’re funny…nope” bam what?! And flying across the world to meet your pen pal?! I really don’t want to give anything away so if you love a good pen pals, flying across the country during Christmas time book you know what to do.
November 18, 2025
4.5 ⭐️
🌶️.5
This was a sweet, fun, special, lovely holiday romance! I loved the connection between the two main characters and how they grew together and as individuals. That they found their special someone in each other when they were least expecting it! So many things to love about the MMC… you will see hehe.
Thank you Katherine for the arc :)
🌶️.5
This was a sweet, fun, special, lovely holiday romance! I loved the connection between the two main characters and how they grew together and as individuals. That they found their special someone in each other when they were least expecting it! So many things to love about the MMC… you will see hehe.
Thank you Katherine for the arc :)
December 30, 2025
What a beautiful little holiday romance.
Starting off as fun little pen pal, a week before Christmas she receives a letter she did not expect! And so with no other plans she hops on a plan halfway across the world to reunite with the boy.
With shocks out of the way, the week that was ahead was not what she expected...
And neither did he 🙈
The angst. The banter.
It was also quite cool to have a few cameos from the Storm Ladies 😍
Starting off as fun little pen pal, a week before Christmas she receives a letter she did not expect! And so with no other plans she hops on a plan halfway across the world to reunite with the boy.
With shocks out of the way, the week that was ahead was not what she expected...
And neither did he 🙈
The angst. The banter.
It was also quite cool to have a few cameos from the Storm Ladies 😍
December 1, 2025
6🌟
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- He falls first
- Exchanging letters
- Holiday romance
- Australian MMC
- American FMC
- LGBT+ rep
- Age gap
Jenna Brooks is an American movie star and a self-proclaimed “live-in-the-moment kind of girl.” She is absolutely hilarious and had me giggling throughout! Especially when she first claps eyes on Jack, and her moments with Mason and Kai! I love her playful side and how she constantly teases a certain someone!
Jack Bailey is an Australian rugby player, who came to the US on a scholarship. They first meet after Penelope introduces them at a house party! I loved the scene where Jack says that Australians can use the word “right” in response to nearly everything.
Mason Bailey is Jack's older brother. He is grumpy. The complete opposite of Jack. He's clean and tidy, which Jenna picks up on straightaway. He enjoys reading thrillers and quickly becomes protective of Jenna. I love how he notices all the little details and tries to comfort her, even without her knowing.
Jenna flies out to Australia to see Jack after 8 years of exchanging letters. However, when she gets there, she gets into a slight altercation with Mason about a parking space. She stays with the two brothers in Australia on holiday for 5 days.
I loved the side characters! Especially Kai! I thought he was really funny but very helpful! I also really enjoyed how past characters were incorporated into the book! I would love to be in the girls' group chat! It sounds really fun and is filled with so much love and support.
Overall, this was a sweet read with so much chemistry, tension and banter! Perfect for Christmas! I absolutely loved Mistletoe Mail and had a hard time choosing my favourite quotes! I would highly recommend this book! It is super cute and cosy and is a great lead up to Christmas!
Many thanks to Katherine Jay for the Advanced Reader Copy!
Tropes:
- Grumpy x Sunshine
- He falls first
- Exchanging letters
- Holiday romance
- Australian MMC
- American FMC
- LGBT+ rep
- Age gap
Jenna Brooks is an American movie star and a self-proclaimed “live-in-the-moment kind of girl.” She is absolutely hilarious and had me giggling throughout! Especially when she first claps eyes on Jack, and her moments with Mason and Kai! I love her playful side and how she constantly teases a certain someone!
Jack Bailey is an Australian rugby player, who came to the US on a scholarship. They first meet after Penelope introduces them at a house party! I loved the scene where Jack says that Australians can use the word “right” in response to nearly everything.
Mason Bailey is Jack's older brother. He is grumpy. The complete opposite of Jack. He's clean and tidy, which Jenna picks up on straightaway. He enjoys reading thrillers and quickly becomes protective of Jenna. I love how he notices all the little details and tries to comfort her, even without her knowing.
Jenna flies out to Australia to see Jack after 8 years of exchanging letters. However, when she gets there, she gets into a slight altercation with Mason about a parking space. She stays with the two brothers in Australia on holiday for 5 days.
I loved the side characters! Especially Kai! I thought he was really funny but very helpful! I also really enjoyed how past characters were incorporated into the book! I would love to be in the girls' group chat! It sounds really fun and is filled with so much love and support.
Overall, this was a sweet read with so much chemistry, tension and banter! Perfect for Christmas! I absolutely loved Mistletoe Mail and had a hard time choosing my favourite quotes! I would highly recommend this book! It is super cute and cosy and is a great lead up to Christmas!
Many thanks to Katherine Jay for the Advanced Reader Copy!
December 14, 2025
**ARC REVIEW**
Mistletoe Mail is a holiday romance novella by Katherine Jay
OMG KATHERINE!! You have officially entered your holiday romance era and I hope you keep writing them because JUST WOW!!!!!
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎄 Opposites Attract
🎄 Letter Exchange
🎄 Grumpy / Sunshine
🎄 Australian MMC and American FMC
🎄 He Falls First
My Thoughts
Jenna and Jack met when he was over in America and they formed the best friendship. But then he had to go back to Australia and they decided to exchange letters as a way to keep in touch.
We get a glimpse of some of the letters exchanged but the most recent one was what changed everything and Jenna needed answers.
After consulting her besties, she decided to hop on a plane and head over. Part of this was also because Christmas just doesn't feel like Christmas to her.
When she gets to Australia, instead of seeing Jack, she meets the grumpiest grump with an Aussie accent lol who tells her to park elsewhere. In the end we find out its Mason, Jack's brother.
YOU GUYS!! THE BANTER BETWEEN JENNA AND MASON!! SOOOOOO GOOD!!!
Also without giving away spoilers there is something important to Mason that he gets her to go with him for that had me crying. It was so beautiful and then the next thing you know I WAS BLUSHING!!!!
Secrets are revealed that had my jaw to the floor even though I kinda of saw it coming hehe
As someone living in New Zealand who gets a summer Christmas, it was so refreshing to see a warm, steamy (not just the summer vibes LOL) holiday romance.
Overall, I loved this holiday novella and I hope this is only the beginning for Katherine and her holiday romance era.
Thank you so much to Katherine and team for kindly sending me this arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
Mistletoe Mail is a holiday romance novella by Katherine Jay
OMG KATHERINE!! You have officially entered your holiday romance era and I hope you keep writing them because JUST WOW!!!!!
My rating: 5⭐️'s
Spicy rating: 🔥🔥🔥
You will love this one, if you enjoy these tropes:
🎄 Christmas Romance
🎄 Opposites Attract
🎄 Letter Exchange
🎄 Grumpy / Sunshine
🎄 Australian MMC and American FMC
🎄 He Falls First
My Thoughts
Jenna and Jack met when he was over in America and they formed the best friendship. But then he had to go back to Australia and they decided to exchange letters as a way to keep in touch.
We get a glimpse of some of the letters exchanged but the most recent one was what changed everything and Jenna needed answers.
After consulting her besties, she decided to hop on a plane and head over. Part of this was also because Christmas just doesn't feel like Christmas to her.
When she gets to Australia, instead of seeing Jack, she meets the grumpiest grump with an Aussie accent lol who tells her to park elsewhere. In the end we find out its Mason, Jack's brother.
YOU GUYS!! THE BANTER BETWEEN JENNA AND MASON!! SOOOOOO GOOD!!!
Also without giving away spoilers there is something important to Mason that he gets her to go with him for that had me crying. It was so beautiful and then the next thing you know I WAS BLUSHING!!!!
Secrets are revealed that had my jaw to the floor even though I kinda of saw it coming hehe
As someone living in New Zealand who gets a summer Christmas, it was so refreshing to see a warm, steamy (not just the summer vibes LOL) holiday romance.
Overall, I loved this holiday novella and I hope this is only the beginning for Katherine and her holiday romance era.
Thank you so much to Katherine and team for kindly sending me this arc to read and review. This is my own honest opinion on the book :)
December 21, 2025
Mistletoe Mail delivered all the cozy holiday vibes—with an emotional punch I was not prepared for. What starts off as a charming, festive romance slowly unfolds into a heartfelt love triangle that had me constantly questioning who to root for. Every letter and interaction added another layer of tension and longing, and I was fully invested in all the messy feelings that came with it.
The story is mostly based in Australia, which added such a fun and refreshing setting to this holiday romance. And let’s be real—I could literally hear Mason’s hot, sexy Australian accent through the pages. 🥵 That alone made every scene with him extra swoony and unforgettable.
The characters felt real and vulnerable, and the emotional stakes kept rising as the story progressed. I went in expecting something sweet and light… and instead I found myself freaking crying at the end. Yes—actual tears. The ending hit hard in the best way, blending hope, heartbreak, and holiday magic into a conclusion that truly stuck with me.
If you love emotional holiday romances, complicated love triangles, and stories that surprise you with how deeply they make you feel, Mistletoe Mail is absolutely worth picking up. 🎄💌
The story is mostly based in Australia, which added such a fun and refreshing setting to this holiday romance. And let’s be real—I could literally hear Mason’s hot, sexy Australian accent through the pages. 🥵 That alone made every scene with him extra swoony and unforgettable.
The characters felt real and vulnerable, and the emotional stakes kept rising as the story progressed. I went in expecting something sweet and light… and instead I found myself freaking crying at the end. Yes—actual tears. The ending hit hard in the best way, blending hope, heartbreak, and holiday magic into a conclusion that truly stuck with me.
If you love emotional holiday romances, complicated love triangles, and stories that surprise you with how deeply they make you feel, Mistletoe Mail is absolutely worth picking up. 🎄💌
December 19, 2025
This book is such a fun and cute read! At just under 200 pages, it’s easy to read this one in one setting. Jenna met Jack years ago, but she lives in the US and he lives in Australia. They decide to keep in touch via letters. It’s been 10 years and the last letter she received was different from any other. She decided to take a trip to Australia and see what made Jack write that. When she gets there, she sees Jack and meets his brother Mason. Jack is excited she’s there but continuously leaves her alone. Mason and Jenna begin spending time together and unexpected feelings stir. Then a secret is revealed and Jenna leaves. But feelings are now involved.
The chemistry between Jenna and Mason is on point, as well as their banter. Yes, there are some spicy scenes too. But my absolute favorite part of this book is when Mason invites Jenna to see a side of him not many see when he asks her to come with him for the Christmas toy drive.
The ending is very sweet, and it left me with a smile on my face. If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy, quick read, that will leave you smiling, get this one now!
The chemistry between Jenna and Mason is on point, as well as their banter. Yes, there are some spicy scenes too. But my absolute favorite part of this book is when Mason invites Jenna to see a side of him not many see when he asks her to come with him for the Christmas toy drive.
The ending is very sweet, and it left me with a smile on my face. If you’re looking for a sweet and spicy, quick read, that will leave you smiling, get this one now!
November 27, 2025
I absolutely adored it! Giving this debut Christmas novella a solid 4 out of 5 stars because it was the perfect sweet and light read to kick off the holiday season.
The storyline itself is pure joy. It's a wonderful example of a sweet and light holiday romance, leaning into a fun forced proximity setup at Christmas time!
The festive setting is perfectly captured, and the book honestly made me feel like I was watching a Hallmark Christmas movie, delivering all the cozy, festive vibes you could want!
I really appreciated the main characters. They are both witty and strong, which kept the banter fun and the romance compelling. But what I especially love about Jay's work is how she has built such an amazing, cohesive world. It was a delight to see some of her previous characters pop up here, proving that everyone is connected in some lovely way within her universe.
So if you're looking for a quick, heartwarming Christmas romance featuring great characters and that ties seamlessly into a bigger, beloved literary world, you absolutely have to pick this one up!
The storyline itself is pure joy. It's a wonderful example of a sweet and light holiday romance, leaning into a fun forced proximity setup at Christmas time!
The festive setting is perfectly captured, and the book honestly made me feel like I was watching a Hallmark Christmas movie, delivering all the cozy, festive vibes you could want!
I really appreciated the main characters. They are both witty and strong, which kept the banter fun and the romance compelling. But what I especially love about Jay's work is how she has built such an amazing, cohesive world. It was a delight to see some of her previous characters pop up here, proving that everyone is connected in some lovely way within her universe.
So if you're looking for a quick, heartwarming Christmas romance featuring great characters and that ties seamlessly into a bigger, beloved literary world, you absolutely have to pick this one up!
December 9, 2025
Katherine always delivers, and yes she can write the perfect Xmas book with spice and banter. A friendship is born between our American, Jenna, and an Australian, Jack. There is no spark of a romantic nature but they decide to stay in contact thru good old fashioned letters.
One letter prompts Jenna to hop a plane to Australia, where she plans to confront Jack about his last letter, but immediately finds herself in a verbal 'tackle' with his older brother, Mason. That, and Jack is torn in another direction. Jenna is sunshine and smiles, whereas Mason is grump personified, but the personalities they are tagged with has deeper reasons. They find themselves spending more time together, and you could literally feel those emotions like you would with throwing a 'prawn on the barbie'. I loved the dual POV from American to Australian slang and them both being seen for more than just what is on the surface. The heavy weight of responsibility and protection has been each other's armour, until now.
One letter prompts Jenna to hop a plane to Australia, where she plans to confront Jack about his last letter, but immediately finds herself in a verbal 'tackle' with his older brother, Mason. That, and Jack is torn in another direction. Jenna is sunshine and smiles, whereas Mason is grump personified, but the personalities they are tagged with has deeper reasons. They find themselves spending more time together, and you could literally feel those emotions like you would with throwing a 'prawn on the barbie'. I loved the dual POV from American to Australian slang and them both being seen for more than just what is on the surface. The heavy weight of responsibility and protection has been each other's armour, until now.
November 30, 2025
I absolutely adored this fun holiday novella with a bit of a twist on the penpal trope.
Feeling a bit down in the dumps during the holiday season, fun loving Jenna takes a chance, traveling to Australia to meet her long time pen pal, Jack. While she’s “down under” in Australia hoping to explore if there’s any chemistry between her and Jack, Jack’s grumpy older brother, Mason, catches Jenna’s eye, and she can’t help but shake the sparks between them.
This is definitely a great little holiday read, with some cameos from our favorite Storm characters. I absolutely adored the banter between the grumpy, motorcycle driving Mason (who is secretly a softy) and the fun loving, carefree Jenna (who actually is a lot deeper and wounded then she’d have people believe). I loved how quickly Mason was able to read Jenna and help her have the best Christmas ever.
*e-arc in exchange for honest review
Feeling a bit down in the dumps during the holiday season, fun loving Jenna takes a chance, traveling to Australia to meet her long time pen pal, Jack. While she’s “down under” in Australia hoping to explore if there’s any chemistry between her and Jack, Jack’s grumpy older brother, Mason, catches Jenna’s eye, and she can’t help but shake the sparks between them.
This is definitely a great little holiday read, with some cameos from our favorite Storm characters. I absolutely adored the banter between the grumpy, motorcycle driving Mason (who is secretly a softy) and the fun loving, carefree Jenna (who actually is a lot deeper and wounded then she’d have people believe). I loved how quickly Mason was able to read Jenna and help her have the best Christmas ever.
*e-arc in exchange for honest review
December 7, 2025
A twist that turned things on its head
I liked the second half so much more than the first half.
In the first half, I didn’t connect to neither Jenna nor Mason. I thought there was way too much sexual connotations and games being played, which wasn’t fun for me to read. Everything was just way over the top. Plus there wasn’t that Christmassy feeling I was looking for.
That changed in the second half and that was one of the things that made it so much better. Secondly, Jenna and Mason finally had conversations to get to know each other instead of the over sexualized encounters that made me feeling there was nothing between them aside from that. Plus there wasn’t a twist in there that made things a game changer between them, but also made the story more interesting and engaging. I was more sold at them being a couple than I was at the beginning. In end it turned out to be a good romance.
I liked the second half so much more than the first half.
In the first half, I didn’t connect to neither Jenna nor Mason. I thought there was way too much sexual connotations and games being played, which wasn’t fun for me to read. Everything was just way over the top. Plus there wasn’t that Christmassy feeling I was looking for.
That changed in the second half and that was one of the things that made it so much better. Secondly, Jenna and Mason finally had conversations to get to know each other instead of the over sexualized encounters that made me feeling there was nothing between them aside from that. Plus there wasn’t a twist in there that made things a game changer between them, but also made the story more interesting and engaging. I was more sold at them being a couple than I was at the beginning. In end it turned out to be a good romance.
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