Smuggling Hearts

by Holly Dunwall

Monsters can’t change tradition that easily!

Tobias Brooker is many things. A protector. A friend. A smuggler fighting for the freedom of mages. An innkeeper. A party planner? Absolutely not.

The Annual Festival of the Moon Dragon is upon the idyllic city of Whitebridge, and Toby needs to prepare his inn for the festivities all while juggling his not-so-legal smuggling ventures.

As an attack in town brings everything to a halt, ruthless pirates seize innocents with magical abilities, and Toby with his big heart refuses to ignore the ensuing chaos. Finding himself in a predicament, he bands together with Harriette, the barmaid he adores, some plucky friends, and his loyal Cerberus Bruton. Toby WILL NOT fail to throw a successful shindig in his inn.

But can Toby juggle saving lives and preparing for the festival? And will Harri finally pluck up the courage to confess her deepest secret to her long time love...?

Set within the "Freaks of Honor" universe, Smuggling Hearts is a cozy romantasy novella that follows everyone's favorite innkeeper and can be read as a standalone.

135 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 8, 2026

About the author

I'm Holly! I'm a Kiwi author living in the US! I write fantasy romance and anything to do with dragons and vampires.

When I'm not writing stories with neurodivergent, LGBTQ+ and plus-size characters finding their happy ever afters or concocting some bizarre horrors, I'm probably napping.

Reviews

[Missfit · Rating 4 out of 5]

‎"Harriette also found it ironic that even though she craved order, she fell for a man who was essentially chaos personified."
‎
‎💚 An innkeeper MMC
‎💚 A barmaid FMC
‎💚 Plus-size main characters in their 30s
‎💚 Third person dual POV
‎💚 Friends to lovers
‎💚 A Cerberus puppy pet
‎💚 Girl gang, yeah!
‎
‎My first book from Holly Dunwall but the ✨last✨ book to complete my 2025 reading challenge, yippee! 🥳 Smuggling Hearts is special like that. I mean, the dedication page alone already warmed my heart, and the author promised me a softboy. As an unofficial leader of the Soft Boys Committee, I approve 😎
‎
‎Mostly told from Toby’s POV, I was instantly drawn to him. He’s such a softie but one who will throw hands (or an ax 🤨) to protect you, along with his fur baby Bruton. There are moments when he thinks about Harriette’s body, but instead of creepy lust, it comes across as tender yearning 🥺. This matters to me because I once read a book where the FMC was openly lusting over the MMC’s body, and I was like, ewwww yuck 🤢
‎
‎Harriette is also a well built character. She doesn’t get in Toby’s way. She knows what she’s capable of and is brave enough to admit she’s not a warrior. That’s such a strong quality. If I can’t have badass lady knights in my books, I’ll gladly settle for Harriettes 🥰
‎
‎One thing that didn’t quite work for me was the smut. It felt a little out of character. For some reason, I imagined Toby and Harriette as virgins 💀 I expected their first time to be extra sweet. And while it was sweet, it felt slightly disconnected from the story huhuhu 😭it's like being given a cake you enjoy but you secretly wanted a different flavor. I’m sure others will love it tho 😉
‎
‎I loved how Dunwall didn’t make a fuss about body positivity. I actually didn’t realize Toby was plus size too until halfway through because the author didn’t make it a thing. There’s no line about "they’re fat, but still beautiful" Nope. The main characters simply know each other is beautiful, without any dramatics about curves or differences 👌 And it’s more meaningful than books that lecture readers about acceptance. Toby and Harriette don’t need that, bcs they already accept themselves.
‎
‎I also loved the friendship that blooms between the girls. There’s no competition or *I’m better than her" vibes. Maven (when did this name become so popular?? I’m pretty sure I’ve met at least three Mavens now 🤔) is such a fun character, a sassy, foul mouthed queer girl with dragon-ish limbs AND she got the princess??? Say no more. Please excuse me while I irresponsibly add Maven’s book to my endless TBR, which I’ll probably finish ten years from now ... Optimistically 😌

[Quilted.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Monsters can’t change tradition that easily and neither can my love for the Freaks of Honor universe.Smuggling Hearts is a cozy romantasy novella centered on one of my absolute favorite characters in the series: Tobias Brooker. Protector, smuggler, freedom fighter for mages .Set during the Annual Festival of the Moon Dragon in the idyllic city of Whitebridge the story follows Toby as he attempts the impossible: preparing his inn for a major festival while secretly juggling dangerous not so legal smuggling ventures meant to protect magical innocents. When an attack rocks the town and ruthless pirates begin seizing people with magical abilities, Toby can’t look the other way. With the help of Harriette the barmaid he adores along with a found family of plucky friends and his loyal Cerberus, Bruton, chaos, courage, and heartfelt moments collide.Smuggling Hearts is about found family, quiet bravery, and choosing to care even when it would be easier not to. There’s danger, warmth, longing, and that signature Freaks of Honor charm that makes this universe have you in a chokehold.This novella is set within the Freaks of Honor universe but can absolutely be read as a standalone. making it a perfect cozy entry point for new readers while still being a heartfelt treat for longtime fans. And yes this story focuses on some of my favorite characters in the entire universe, which made every page feel like a gift.I had the privilege of reading this as an ARC, and I am endlessly thankful to Holly, one of my all time favorite authors. Her ability to create such lovable characters never misses for me. I will truly never shut up about this fantasy series.If you love cozy romantasy and found family Smuggling Hearts deserves a spot on your TBR this January!! It comes out Jan 8th!!

[Rachel Watkinson · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC Review
Smuggling Hearts
By Holly Dunwall

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

This was such a fun, light-hearted read.

Toby is such a loveable man, with a big heart ❤️ and he's also a fighter. What more could you want.

Harriet is a kind, loving, gentle soul who fell in love with her boss.

I love the fantasy aspect of this book. It's there but not the entire plot. You get a little bit of the creature and a lot of the characters

[Puppets & Paperbacks · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this as an ARC from the author


This is…what’s the word? A spin-off? Side story?

Okay, if you’ve read Freaks of Honor then you’ve seen Tobias and his three-headed dog Bruton before in that story.

This story is all about them and Tobias’ love interest Harriet 🥰 this is also told in third-person narration so if you’re not used to that or prefer first-person be aware.

It’s also descriptive, so there’s description of the setting and how the characters look, feel, and act. It’s a fantasy, which means it’s fantasy descriptions. I want to say high fantasy because they have giant seahorses, which I need more of.

This means you never or didn’t have to read Freaks of Honor to know these characters. There’s a prologue which does a great job of setting up background information and letting us know what’s going to be taking place in this novella.

This is a fantasy story so there are mythical scriptures and of course dragons. There are also witches and pirates.

I’d this is a new to you author or genre I think this novella is a great starting point!

Tobias goes on an adventure? Let’s call it a rescue mission and this novella also does a great job of explaining why he would be doing this and why this is occurring in this world.

Again, it does a great job as a standalone.

It actually makes me WANT to read Freaks of Honor because I want to see these characters again and get their whole picture. Also, I want to know this world more

This is also a spicy story though it happens toward the end once Tobias is back from his mission and finally tells Harriet how he feels. Like, damn! Tobias can get it

I liked it because it has fat characters being strong, brave, caring, and in love. Like, I feel like Tobias and Harriet are a couple I know who own their own business.

[Adair Reese · Rating 2 out of 5]

I was given an ARC of this novel to leave an early review before its release.

Smuggling Hearts was not what I thought it was going to be given its description. I was expecting a tale of pirates on the open sea and monsters and a cutesy romance. Which, it was a cutesy romance, I will give it that.

However, I felt like this novel was missing so much. It felt so rushed. One moment our characters are preparing for a festival then four chapters later, with little build up to something more, they are chasing slaver pirates. I wont spoil anything really but it feels jarring. I wasn’t invested in any of the characters. It almost felt like a novella of a side quest instead of a standalone novel.

Brunton is cute but overly makes no sense. Cerberus are meant to be terrifying monsters yet he does little other than look cute and is a bit derpy.

I wanted to know more about Harriette and Toby. There was little development or backstory. I love a good friends to lovers story but I just wasnt invested. There wasnt a reason to be. Yeah, they were friends for years yet it’s barely touched on. I dont understand the yearning and pining based off what we are given.

There is mention of Neorsi Wardens and Maven has a draconic appearance but its not brought up how? Or why? Toby even mentions wanting to ask then he never does! This was such a good spot for world building especially given what is brought up later on. It felt stuck in the story for absolutely no reason.

Maybe this type of book just isnt for me. It is a quick cozy-esque romance with a spicy scene at the end. Others will probably love it.

Also, there are typos still within the book but that doesn’t bother me. It happens. They are few and far between.

[Megan Elizabeth · Rating 2 out of 5]

So I want to definitely start off with saying this is a cute and cozy read. It is fast paced, but I feel it makes sense and is not too rushed. I also love the main characters. They are both sweet hearted in nature, and I am a huge fan of the childhood friends to lovers trope.

If you are reading this romance for the love story aspect, or are expecting an intense focus on the love story, this may not be the read. There is some yearning and mention of their desire for each other in the beginning, and then the spicy "finally giving into those desires" moments at the end. However, I just didn't feel that passion or connection between the fmc and mmc. I would say this story is about Toby and his adventure with the romance being a side piece of it.

Absolutely adored the three headed dog Bruton! He was cute, and like I said the characters were really sweet and this is a definite cozy fantasy read. I would recommend to those who are not looking for a typical romance and spicy novella.

Side note: if you are looking for a romance fantasy with vampire aspects, Last Christmas Before Dawn by this author was one of my favourite December reads!!

[Holly Capps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a sweet story following Tobias and Harriette as they work through insecurities and fears to finally share their long burning feelings for one another. While this is a best friends-to-lovers story, romance refreshingly takes a supportive role to the adventures in the story as Toby faces the fears and failures of his past, deciding to risk his life to save innocents from a deadly fate. Toby can’t live with himself if he doesn’t at least try to save the abducted children, and Harriette lovingly supports him in his mission despite the strife to her heart in the process.

Favorite Quotes:
“[She] found it ironic that even though she craved order, she fell for a man who was essentially chaos personified.”
“I’ve been too afraid to tell you I’m in love with you and that the idea of losing you, or you getting hurt, breaks my heart in ways you cannot even imagine.”
“I love you Harri…always have…since we were kids.”
“Let go, love. I’ve got you.”

[Blair McDowell · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like when I read this book I was back into the pre-existing world from her other books. Maven made a return and for people who haven’t read that book may not appreciate that this is a wonderful tale that is within that world.
The characters are complex and interesting, the vibes were so unique and it had me laughing out loud numerous times. I’m in love with what Dunwall is creating each and every time she writes. This was a short story so it was not as “fleshed out” as a full length novel but that is what makes a short story different from a novel. And it works well for the reader if you read the previous book, but to say that there is no substance is just not true. The story has all the characteristics of a good story and it succeeded in every way. I’m so happy to have read this!

[Heather C. Rafnel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super cute, short, and sweet novella.

This Novella follows Tobias, an inn keeper whose life seems simple enough until a monster barges into his town and takes something that doesn't belong to him.

This is my first book by Dunwall. I enjoyed it so much, I added Freaks of Honor to my TBR.
Freaks of Honor is where readers will first meet Tobias. Dunwall got such positive feedback about Tobias, that she wanted to compose this sweet Novella just for him. A glimpse into the inn keepers life and inner thoughts.

This story takes romance on a DnD-type of ride. There is some spice, but not much and it is QUITE important for Toby's story.

It was a fun and quick read that helped me refresh after reading some heavier things.

[Sarah Neese · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advanced copy of Smuggling Hearts by Holly Dunwall, and I had an absolute blast reading it. Harriette completely stole the show for me. She is a true firecracker, yet she also has a shy, feminine side that makes her feel wonderfully real and easy to love. Esmeralda was another standout character, and I loved how she helped Harriette feel confident and supported. The book offers a little bit of everything, including pirates, a dangerous mission, a festival, a little spice, and a satisfying happily ever after. This was my first book by Holly Dunwall, but it certainly will not be my last.

[Molly Serra · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was my first book by Holly Dundalk and I really enjoyed it. I learned about her from an instagram @books.with.love.handles and decided to give her a try! Im glad I did. I love to read fantasy- magic and paranormal characters are my favorite. This book a beautiful balance of romance and adventure. The characters grew separately before growing ther relationship, and I appreciated that. There was some heaviness to Toby's story- but it added to the compassion I felt for him and why he made the choice to go on the rescue mission. Harri's plot line of found family and standing up to bullies pulled me in, and I wish I had a buddy like Esmeralda. I'll continue reading this series :)

[Curvy Girls Read Romance · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun fantasy read! I love the world Holly Dunwall has created and the characters who inhabit it.

Tobias is an innkeeper who engages in some light smuggling on the side in the interest of aiding others. He's been in love with his friend and employee, Harriette for years, but has hesitated to tell her of his feelings. Harriette has quietly loved Tobias for years and hasn't told him for the same reasons.

This had adventure, comedy, heat, and a cozy feel all at once. A quick and satisfying escape into Dunwall's fantasy world, and I'd love to go back!

[Helena · Rating 5 out of 5]

This fantasy novella is set within the "Freaks of Honor" universe. It follows everyone's favorite innkeeper and his adventures. I especially enjoyed his adventure, "Of the heart."
*SPOILER*
He has loved Harri since he was old enough to know she was more than a friend. Not till after a dangerous rescue mission, did either pluck up the courage to admit how they felt.
Oh, but Bruton is the one who stole my heart. I need a plushy of the cerberus.
*END SPOILER*

[FN · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoy this fast paced short story, it delivers all the main elements that i look for - characters that have feeling for each other, some actions, some romance, and supporting characters that added the depth and emotions. Thank you for the ARC opportunity.

[Erin Houghton · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with this novella. It’s a slightly different world but the author does a wonderful job describing things while not throwing so much info at you at once you have trouble understanding. The characters are so sweet and lovable.

[Nicole Hassett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smuggling Hearts is about a cinnamon roll of a man named Toby who runs a Tavern/Inn called Pellas Wish. He pines hard for his friend/employee Hariette (Hari) and has a pet Cerberus!!! Yes, a Cerberus! Its a cute short read that I couldn't put down! I was even reading it at work!

[Angel Webster · Rating 3 out of 5]

for me this book seemed rushed.
the characters I didn't feel like i connected with them enough nor the story.

I was getting confused in segments.