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Merry Little Bookshop
When her company sends her to tiny Azalea, Texas, to open a holiday pop-up bookstore for the month of December, Shira Schwartz knows the real reason she got the assignment—they figure she won’t mind missing Christmas. What they forgot? She’s also missing Hanukkah.
From the moment she arrives on Thanksgiving Day, Shira is swept up in the town’s charm—and right into the path of Jonny McKay, a local who traded big-city dreams to come home and care for his dad. He’s cocky, flirty, and totally not Shira’s type…but he might be perfect for a no-strings holiday fling.
Together, they turn the bookshop into more than a store: it’s a gathering place, a haven for new readers, and maybe the start of something magical between them. From cookie-decorating chaos with Jonny’s family to Azalea’s sparkling Christmas tractor parade, the season wraps Shira in warmth she never expected. And when Jonny rallies the townspeople to surprise Shira with their own heartfelt take on Hanukkah, she realizes this assignment might be the best holiday gift she’s ever been given.
MERRY LITTLE BOOKSHOP is a steamy, romantic holiday tale about unexpected love, community spirit, and finding your place where you least expect it.
Author’s Note: This small town holiday romance is approximately 225 pages in print—somewhere between a long novella and a short novel. Expect banter and chemistry, cozy small-town charm, spicy bookstore moments, shared Christmas and Hanukkah traditions, and a heartwarming happily ever after.
From the moment she arrives on Thanksgiving Day, Shira is swept up in the town’s charm—and right into the path of Jonny McKay, a local who traded big-city dreams to come home and care for his dad. He’s cocky, flirty, and totally not Shira’s type…but he might be perfect for a no-strings holiday fling.
Together, they turn the bookshop into more than a store: it’s a gathering place, a haven for new readers, and maybe the start of something magical between them. From cookie-decorating chaos with Jonny’s family to Azalea’s sparkling Christmas tractor parade, the season wraps Shira in warmth she never expected. And when Jonny rallies the townspeople to surprise Shira with their own heartfelt take on Hanukkah, she realizes this assignment might be the best holiday gift she’s ever been given.
MERRY LITTLE BOOKSHOP is a steamy, romantic holiday tale about unexpected love, community spirit, and finding your place where you least expect it.
Author’s Note: This small town holiday romance is approximately 225 pages in print—somewhere between a long novella and a short novel. Expect banter and chemistry, cozy small-town charm, spicy bookstore moments, shared Christmas and Hanukkah traditions, and a heartwarming happily ever after.
236 pages, Paperback
First published November 11, 2025
412 people are currently reading
2213 people want to read
About the author
Ali Brady
6 books1,402 followersAli Brady is the pen name of writing BFFs Alison Hammer and Bradeigh Godfrey. They are the USA TODAY Bestselling authors of romantic, heartwarming, funny novels including The Beach Trap, The Comeback Summer, Until Next Summer, and Battle of the Bookstores. Their books have been “best of summer” picks by The Washington Post, The Wall Street Journal, Parade, and Katie Couric Media. Alison lives in Chicago and works as an advertising creative director. She’s also the Founder and Co-President of The Artists Against Antisemitism, and the author of You and Me and Us and Little Pieces of Me. Bradeigh lives in Utah with her husband, four children, and two dogs. She works as a doctor and is the author of psychological thrillers Imposter and The Followers.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AliBradyBooks/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/AliBradyBooks/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
December 12, 2025
For some readers, this will be a cute, small town holiday romance with some Christmas elements and some Hanukkah ones. I acknowledge that there were adorable scenes and that overall, the writing was easy to digest. There was telling vs. showing in places and I felt like the authors forced some tropes/themes. The H was also a character that I worried about initially and then grew on me as the depth of his character was revealed and grew. But the h frustrated me endlessly. As did the small town they were in because of how they treated the H. This won't be going on my holiday reread list, but YMMV.
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both were experienced. The h describes crappy recent lovers and the H has the thought that he hasn't dated in a while, but he did have a reputation as a teenager.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Holidays - touching on the good and the hard
☆ Small town atmosphere
☆ She's running a pop-up bookstore
☆ He's successful and home to help with family
☆ Strangers to friends to lovers
☆ He wants to go slow
☆ She wants a holiday fling
☆ She honestly was super pushy about gettin in his pants
☆ She lies/withholds some personal info at first
☆ He's deeper than his cocky attitude
☆ Hanukkah celebrations as a grand gesture
☆ His family is very involved
☆ Her best friends are supportive and very involved (from a distance)
☆ Some people hold the H's childhood antics against him
☆ Steamy times eventually...including in the bookstore
☆ HEA ending with epilogue a couple years later
Written in first person, dual POV. No ow/om drama and both were experienced. The h describes crappy recent lovers and the H has the thought that he hasn't dated in a while, but he did have a reputation as a teenager.
Some tropes/themes:
☆ Holidays - touching on the good and the hard
☆ Small town atmosphere
☆ She's running a pop-up bookstore
☆ He's successful and home to help with family
☆ Strangers to friends to lovers
☆ He wants to go slow
☆ She wants a holiday fling
☆ She honestly was super pushy about gettin in his pants
☆ She lies/withholds some personal info at first
☆ He's deeper than his cocky attitude
☆ Hanukkah celebrations as a grand gesture
☆ His family is very involved
☆ Her best friends are supportive and very involved (from a distance)
☆ Some people hold the H's childhood antics against him
☆ Steamy times eventually...including in the bookstore
☆ HEA ending with epilogue a couple years later
December 11, 2025
4 stars.
November 19, 2025
What a lovely, heartwarming story, just in time for the December holiday season. The story starts on Thanksgiving Day and ends on Christmas Day (plus an epilogue). And along the way, Hanukkah is celebrated. Ali Brady brings all the seasonal love with Merry Little Bookshop. Thank you to the authors (Ali Brady is a duo) for the gifted copy of this delightful book.
Shira Schwartz is sent by her company to tiny Azalea, Texas, to open a holiday pop-up bookstore for the month of December. She’s really sad that she’s going to miss Hanukkah with her friends in Chicago. In Azalea she’s reluctant to reveal that she’s Jewish at first, because she doesn’t think there are any other Jews in that town. She even gives people what she calls her “Starbucks name”, Sarah, instead of Shira. But then there’s Jonny McKay, a local who has come home to help care for his dad, who normally runs the town’s annual holiday market. Jonny and Shira … what an amazing match. I was really rooting for them, even though Shira figured it would just be a fling. Their relationship grows gradually over the weeks that Shira is in town. I loved how Jonny tried to live down his bad boy rep by taking it slow with Shira. Jonny’s extended family welcomes Shira in every way and when Jonny surprises Shira with a special Hanukkah gesture, I swooned. The temporary bookstore fills a need in the town and I loved seeing all the locals, young and old, who came in for recommendations from Shira (who had never run a bookstore before!). Check out this quote: “…recommending a book is more than sharing a story - it’s a way of seeing someone, noticing who they are, and inviting them to explore something they might never have discovered on their own.”
If you’re looking for a spicy holiday romance novella, look no further.
Shira Schwartz is sent by her company to tiny Azalea, Texas, to open a holiday pop-up bookstore for the month of December. She’s really sad that she’s going to miss Hanukkah with her friends in Chicago. In Azalea she’s reluctant to reveal that she’s Jewish at first, because she doesn’t think there are any other Jews in that town. She even gives people what she calls her “Starbucks name”, Sarah, instead of Shira. But then there’s Jonny McKay, a local who has come home to help care for his dad, who normally runs the town’s annual holiday market. Jonny and Shira … what an amazing match. I was really rooting for them, even though Shira figured it would just be a fling. Their relationship grows gradually over the weeks that Shira is in town. I loved how Jonny tried to live down his bad boy rep by taking it slow with Shira. Jonny’s extended family welcomes Shira in every way and when Jonny surprises Shira with a special Hanukkah gesture, I swooned. The temporary bookstore fills a need in the town and I loved seeing all the locals, young and old, who came in for recommendations from Shira (who had never run a bookstore before!). Check out this quote: “…recommending a book is more than sharing a story - it’s a way of seeing someone, noticing who they are, and inviting them to explore something they might never have discovered on their own.”
If you’re looking for a spicy holiday romance novella, look no further.
December 26, 2025
Read this if you like:
•holiday reads
•novella
•small town
This novella was a delight. I loved how it brought and honored Christmas and Hanukkah both. The small town was adorable a the meddling family was fun! This one’s on
•holiday reads
•novella
•small town
This novella was a delight. I loved how it brought and honored Christmas and Hanukkah both. The small town was adorable a the meddling family was fun! This one’s on
November 26, 2025
This is such a sweet holiday story! Unique premise, very inclusive, somewhat steamy - just the right read for a day of travel and sitting at airports and on planes.
Source: Kindle Unlimited
Source: Kindle Unlimited
December 27, 2025
I usually enjoy everything Ali Brady writes, but getting through this novella felt like work.
What this novella did well:
- Lots of adorable scenes with perfect holiday season vibes
- A pop-up bookstore central to the plot
- Jewish representation
- Found family
- The epilogue was sweet.
What I struggled with:
- Insta-lust
- I did not feel connected to the FMC
- The FMC’s eagerness and insistence on sexual relations with the MMC was icky. If the MMC had acted that way, most people would likely be upset with this story.
- Some of the dialogue felt cheesy.
- The pacing was slow. I kept putting this book down and not wanting to pick it back up.
- The ending was a bit silly with the conflict not really being a conflict.
This novella had spice, 2 🌶️.
Overall, I will continue to read Ali Brady’s books, but this novella wasn’t for me.
What this novella did well:
- Lots of adorable scenes with perfect holiday season vibes
- A pop-up bookstore central to the plot
- Jewish representation
- Found family
- The epilogue was sweet.
What I struggled with:
- Insta-lust
- I did not feel connected to the FMC
- The FMC’s eagerness and insistence on sexual relations with the MMC was icky. If the MMC had acted that way, most people would likely be upset with this story.
- Some of the dialogue felt cheesy.
- The pacing was slow. I kept putting this book down and not wanting to pick it back up.
- The ending was a bit silly with the conflict not really being a conflict.
This novella had spice, 2 🌶️.
Overall, I will continue to read Ali Brady’s books, but this novella wasn’t for me.
November 30, 2025
“I realize recommending a book is more than sharing a story - it’s a way of seeing someone, noticing who they are, and inviting them to explore something they might never have e doctored on their own.”
Shira is sent to the small town of Azalea, Texas for the month of December to set up a pop up book store by her boss, Connor. While Connor sends Shira to set up the bookstore because she is Jewish and doesn’t celebrate Christmas, he doesn’t realize she will be missing Hanukkah while she is away. To help her get through the month her friends back home in Chicago encourage her to have a fling so she isn’t lonely and will have something to do.
As Shira is discovering the town, she runs into Jonny, a local who has moved back home to help his dad get back on his feet after an accident. One thing leads to another and they begin a harmless no strings attached fling that turns into much more.
A heartwarming story that blends Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations in a charming little town where a pop up bookstore becomes a haven for so many in the community.
“Sometimes it’s right when everything seems the most hopeless that something unexpected happens.”
Shira is sent to the small town of Azalea, Texas for the month of December to set up a pop up book store by her boss, Connor. While Connor sends Shira to set up the bookstore because she is Jewish and doesn’t celebrate Christmas, he doesn’t realize she will be missing Hanukkah while she is away. To help her get through the month her friends back home in Chicago encourage her to have a fling so she isn’t lonely and will have something to do.
As Shira is discovering the town, she runs into Jonny, a local who has moved back home to help his dad get back on his feet after an accident. One thing leads to another and they begin a harmless no strings attached fling that turns into much more.
A heartwarming story that blends Hanukkah and Christmas celebrations in a charming little town where a pop up bookstore becomes a haven for so many in the community.
“Sometimes it’s right when everything seems the most hopeless that something unexpected happens.”
November 19, 2025
I adore Ali Brady, so I was really sad that this one didn’t work for me. I really wanted to love it. Shira Schwartz is sent to Azalea, Texas to run a holiday pop-up bookstore, where she soon finds herself charmed by the town and Jonny McKay, the handsome local she keeps running into. There’s even a little hidden identity on both sides, with the intention of never seeing each other again, and that was fun.
But Jonny felt like two completely different characters. Maybe it's just me, but his POV gave off one vibe, and his behaviour in Shira’s POV felt totally different. His flirting early on even read a bit, I don’t know ... ick? Honestly, I thought he was just some random side character during the meet cute because I was like, there’s no way he’s the love interest, lol. And the way the townspeople constantly pestered him about his bad reputation as a teenager was very strange.
I did really enjoy the mix of Hanukkah and Christmas! And Shira finding a sense of community within the small town was super sweet. The way the town honoured her traditions and made her feel welcome was definitely the highlight. But overall, the spice and innuendo overshadowed the actual plot for me, especially for a novella. Just not the holiday romance I was hoping for, unfortunately.
(heat level: 3 open-door scenes, moderate to explicit details)
But Jonny felt like two completely different characters. Maybe it's just me, but his POV gave off one vibe, and his behaviour in Shira’s POV felt totally different. His flirting early on even read a bit, I don’t know ... ick? Honestly, I thought he was just some random side character during the meet cute because I was like, there’s no way he’s the love interest, lol. And the way the townspeople constantly pestered him about his bad reputation as a teenager was very strange.
I did really enjoy the mix of Hanukkah and Christmas! And Shira finding a sense of community within the small town was super sweet. The way the town honoured her traditions and made her feel welcome was definitely the highlight. But overall, the spice and innuendo overshadowed the actual plot for me, especially for a novella. Just not the holiday romance I was hoping for, unfortunately.
(heat level: 3 open-door scenes, moderate to explicit details)
December 17, 2025
Не намерих нещо кой знае какво в тази празнична книга! Е, то не може всяка да е незабравима история, но тук беше мил момент приобщаването на едно еврейско момиче към зимния празничен дух в тексаско градче. Запознаването с различните религии е пътят към опознаването между хората. Така няма да се стига до гледането настрани, когато става дума за Ханука, Коледа, Байрям и някой друг религиозен празник. Може би любовта, все пак, ще се окаже стимулът да приемаме другия не заради расата, религията или цвета на кожата му, а заради духа, сърдечността и блясъка в очите, който е притегателна сила. Идеята на Merry Little Bookshop е много добра, но превръщането й в лека коледна история не е помогнало да се развие потинциала й. И внушението на книгата се е изгубило между флирта и ходенето на героите по пазари и семейни вечери. Дойде ми малко бледо и незадоволително!
Затова пък си намерих някои доста добри фрази измежду диалозите! Ще си позволя да ги предам тук, както си ги преведох :
* " Няма нищо лошо в една добра книга за самопомощ. Но имах професор в колежа, който казваше, че романите са просто книги за самопомощ под прикритие. Независимо дали е литературна фантастика, за епидемията от СПИН, фантазия за избраник, който решава да бъде смел, или мистерия, в която детективът всъщност решава собствената си каша - всичко е въпрос на това да се научиш как да бъдеш човек.“
* " И не знам, разговорът ни ме накара да се замисля колко силни са книгите. Не става въпрос само за думите на страницата, а за това как те карат да се чувстваш и как се свързват с живота ти.Двадесет души биха могли да прочетат една и съща книга и всеки да си отнесе нещо различно.“
* " ... не можеш да контролираш всичко, което се случва, но можеш да контролираш как реагираш. "
Затова пък си намерих някои доста добри фрази измежду диалозите! Ще си позволя да ги предам тук, както си ги преведох :
* " Няма нищо лошо в една добра книга за самопомощ. Но имах професор в колежа, който казваше, че романите са просто книги за самопомощ под прикритие. Независимо дали е литературна фантастика, за епидемията от СПИН, фантазия за избраник, който решава да бъде смел, или мистерия, в която детективът всъщност решава собствената си каша - всичко е въпрос на това да се научиш как да бъдеш човек.“
* " И не знам, разговорът ни ме накара да се замисля колко силни са книгите. Не става въпрос само за думите на страницата, а за това как те карат да се чувстваш и как се свързват с живота ти.Двадесет души биха могли да прочетат една и съща книга и всеки да си отнесе нещо различно.“
* " ... не можеш да контролираш всичко, което се случва, но можеш да контролираш как реагираш. "
December 10, 2025
4.5/5 stars
What a wonderful holiday novella.
This is a longer novella featuring both Hanukkah and Christmas.
Shira is Jewish. She is sent to a small town in Texas to open a pop up bookstore.
Jonny is a former bad boy who is home to help his family.
This story features Hanukkah in the most beautiful way. The Jewish Rep is incredible. And I absolutely loved the romance.
This book is full of family traditions. And it honestly feels like a full length book.
What a wonderful holiday novella.
This is a longer novella featuring both Hanukkah and Christmas.
Shira is Jewish. She is sent to a small town in Texas to open a pop up bookstore.
Jonny is a former bad boy who is home to help his family.
This story features Hanukkah in the most beautiful way. The Jewish Rep is incredible. And I absolutely loved the romance.
This book is full of family traditions. And it honestly feels like a full length book.
December 27, 2025
That was a really fun and cute seasonal novella.
Great story, fun characters, believable third act breakup.
I wish I could host a pop-up bookshop in a small town and find a billionaire boyfriend with a cute accent!!
Great story, fun characters, believable third act breakup.
I wish I could host a pop-up bookshop in a small town and find a billionaire boyfriend with a cute accent!!
November 8, 2025
Merry Little Bookshop
By: Ali Brady
5🕎🕎🕎🎄🎄
I loved their last Christmas book and was excited they decided to do another one.
This book is filled with love, acceptance, hope, forgiveness and two worlds colliding.
Living in Texas I loved the mention of BookPeople, Aggies (Whoop!), UT and the reference to Taylor Swift.
Shira is sent to Azalea, Texas to create a pop up Bookshop. She soon connects with the community and one guy in particular.
This book was fun, emotional and spicy. Shira and Jonny find acceptance and love while discovering a town and bringing two religions together.
I would love to see a movie with this book. If you like Hallmark movies you will love this.
By: Ali Brady
5🕎🕎🕎🎄🎄
I loved their last Christmas book and was excited they decided to do another one.
This book is filled with love, acceptance, hope, forgiveness and two worlds colliding.
Living in Texas I loved the mention of BookPeople, Aggies (Whoop!), UT and the reference to Taylor Swift.
Shira is sent to Azalea, Texas to create a pop up Bookshop. She soon connects with the community and one guy in particular.
This book was fun, emotional and spicy. Shira and Jonny find acceptance and love while discovering a town and bringing two religions together.
I would love to see a movie with this book. If you like Hallmark movies you will love this.
December 28, 2025
I like Ali Brady's writing a lot, so I was excited to check out their latest holiday offering. Like One Night, Two Holidays: A Christmas and Hanukkah Novella, this novella also brought together two characters with different religious backgrounds to celebrate and appreciate each other's holidays. It's really as simple as that. There's also a sweet romance and a bunch of steamy scenes.
I enjoyed this story, it made me smile, and it gave off a nice feeling for both Christmas and Hanukkah. It would be great as a holiday rom-com movie as it has all the feels. I've read a bunch of books this year about bookstores, including Ali's summer release, but there is always room for more and this one gives off a cozy vibe. Shira even reminded me of myself in how I love recommending books to people and consider myself a book whisperer.
This story lightly touches on something that a lot of Jewish people have been experiencing lately: Whether or not we should hide our Jewish identity when we are around people we don't know. In this day and age, many Jews are scared to wear symbols of their religion, such as Star of David necklaces, because of how some people have been reacting harshly to them. In this novel, there is no negativity towards Judaism (in fact, it is embraced), but it's still hard to know who to trust in real life.
Overall, a delightful holiday read!
Movie casting suggestions:
Shira: Catherine Caylee Cowan
I enjoyed this story, it made me smile, and it gave off a nice feeling for both Christmas and Hanukkah. It would be great as a holiday rom-com movie as it has all the feels. I've read a bunch of books this year about bookstores, including Ali's summer release, but there is always room for more and this one gives off a cozy vibe. Shira even reminded me of myself in how I love recommending books to people and consider myself a book whisperer.
This story lightly touches on something that a lot of Jewish people have been experiencing lately: Whether or not we should hide our Jewish identity when we are around people we don't know. In this day and age, many Jews are scared to wear symbols of their religion, such as Star of David necklaces, because of how some people have been reacting harshly to them. In this novel, there is no negativity towards Judaism (in fact, it is embraced), but it's still hard to know who to trust in real life.
Overall, a delightful holiday read!
Movie casting suggestions:
Shira: Catherine Caylee Cowan
Jonny: Pierson Fode
Read
December 8, 2025I bought this book for two reasons. One, it was inspired by the book signing the authors attended at The Reading Rabbit, the best mom & pop bookstore I have ever had the privilege of shopping at. Two, it is based on my hometown of Azle, Texas. I have never read anything by this author, and I had actually never even heard of this author before I heard the announcement. I called the store and reserved my copy to pick up on the release date.
I have declined to rate the book out of respect for the reasons stated above. I will say if you bought the book for the same reasons that I did, you might be disappointed. Azalea is a Hallmark movie stereotypical small town. It might pass, in the everybody knows your business in a small town, but the author must have been channeling the Azle of the 1970s. Yes, we even had a drive-in theater back then. There still aren't sidewalks on Main Street.
Then there is the blaring fact throughout the book that it is written by two women. Jonny, nobody spells Johnny like that in Texas, is a Greek Adonis who has all the markers of a shirtless cover model of the 1980s. Maybe his Carhartt jacket will be unzipped. Did I mention that he wears a Carhartt jacket? It's okay, if you read the book, you will be reminded in every chapter at least once. Don't forget the money. No self-respecting Texan can not be rich, with a long family tree and even longer driveway. He is the most thoughtful man on the planet too. The extremes he goes through to win the bland girl are really above board, and actually really enduring.
Now to that girl. Sarah or Shira, whatever you want to call her. I know she has dark hair and is short, but beyond that, she is just there. I think the first attraction on Jo(h)nny's part was that she wasn't from Azalea. Did I mention that Azalea is written in almost every chapter too? I know what she was attracted to. I'm still not sure what the big deal is with her name. Sarah and Shira are both Hebrew. While there might not be as many Jews in Texas as there are up North, it really isn't a thing about her name. Again, maybe if this were the Azalea of the 1970s it would be. Nowadays, almost everyone in Azalea is from somewhere else. Not to mention that small town atmosphere described in the book is not really as much of a thing when the population has exploded from around five thousand in the mid-70s to over 30,000 in 2025. I'd love to know where you can see a meteor shower without light pollution around the area.
Now to the holidays. It is cool that they celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah in this book. Neither is actually done from a religious viewpoint. All the Christmas aspects are totally American Christmas traditions, apart from the true meaning, and the traditions of Hanukkah are done totally from a racial tradition. There is no Yaweh represented in either, which is a bummer.
If you are looking for a smutty little holiday read where the guy is what every girl dreams of and the girl is generic enough for you to paint yourself in her shoes without any trouble, and their sexual activities are written in detail pretty much throughout the book, look no further.
I have declined to rate the book out of respect for the reasons stated above. I will say if you bought the book for the same reasons that I did, you might be disappointed. Azalea is a Hallmark movie stereotypical small town. It might pass, in the everybody knows your business in a small town, but the author must have been channeling the Azle of the 1970s. Yes, we even had a drive-in theater back then. There still aren't sidewalks on Main Street.
Then there is the blaring fact throughout the book that it is written by two women. Jonny, nobody spells Johnny like that in Texas, is a Greek Adonis who has all the markers of a shirtless cover model of the 1980s. Maybe his Carhartt jacket will be unzipped. Did I mention that he wears a Carhartt jacket? It's okay, if you read the book, you will be reminded in every chapter at least once. Don't forget the money. No self-respecting Texan can not be rich, with a long family tree and even longer driveway. He is the most thoughtful man on the planet too. The extremes he goes through to win the bland girl are really above board, and actually really enduring.
Now to that girl. Sarah or Shira, whatever you want to call her. I know she has dark hair and is short, but beyond that, she is just there. I think the first attraction on Jo(h)nny's part was that she wasn't from Azalea. Did I mention that Azalea is written in almost every chapter too? I know what she was attracted to. I'm still not sure what the big deal is with her name. Sarah and Shira are both Hebrew. While there might not be as many Jews in Texas as there are up North, it really isn't a thing about her name. Again, maybe if this were the Azalea of the 1970s it would be. Nowadays, almost everyone in Azalea is from somewhere else. Not to mention that small town atmosphere described in the book is not really as much of a thing when the population has exploded from around five thousand in the mid-70s to over 30,000 in 2025. I'd love to know where you can see a meteor shower without light pollution around the area.
Now to the holidays. It is cool that they celebrate both Christmas and Hanukkah in this book. Neither is actually done from a religious viewpoint. All the Christmas aspects are totally American Christmas traditions, apart from the true meaning, and the traditions of Hanukkah are done totally from a racial tradition. There is no Yaweh represented in either, which is a bummer.
If you are looking for a smutty little holiday read where the guy is what every girl dreams of and the girl is generic enough for you to paint yourself in her shoes without any trouble, and their sexual activities are written in detail pretty much throughout the book, look no further.
November 30, 2025
A huge shoutout to @alibradybooks for the #gifted e-book!
What an absolutely delightful read this Christmas and Hanukkah story is! I couldn't get enough of this charming novella and read it in one sitting.
From the very first chapter, the chemistry between Shira and Jonny is electric! Jonny, the rebellious bad boy who returns to his quaint Texas hometown to support his family, faces the challenge of being seen as a “troublemaker” by the townsfolk. It’s impressive to see him persevere despite their judgments. And then there’s Shira, who is busy bringing a magical Christmas pop-up bookstore to life. She creates such a warm and inviting space for everyone to discover the wonders of reading.
It broke my heart to see Shira, who is Jewish, feeling the need to hide her true self from others. But what truly touched me was Jonny’s compassion. When he learns that she is celebrating Hanukkah alone, he goes out of his way to craft a beautiful gathering in the town square that embraces her faith.
This story isn’t just about two people finding love; it’s an inspiring tale about the merging of two cultures and faiths, all centered around the enchanting backdrop of a bookstore!
What a perfect way to kick off the holiday season!
What an absolutely delightful read this Christmas and Hanukkah story is! I couldn't get enough of this charming novella and read it in one sitting.
From the very first chapter, the chemistry between Shira and Jonny is electric! Jonny, the rebellious bad boy who returns to his quaint Texas hometown to support his family, faces the challenge of being seen as a “troublemaker” by the townsfolk. It’s impressive to see him persevere despite their judgments. And then there’s Shira, who is busy bringing a magical Christmas pop-up bookstore to life. She creates such a warm and inviting space for everyone to discover the wonders of reading.
It broke my heart to see Shira, who is Jewish, feeling the need to hide her true self from others. But what truly touched me was Jonny’s compassion. When he learns that she is celebrating Hanukkah alone, he goes out of his way to craft a beautiful gathering in the town square that embraces her faith.
This story isn’t just about two people finding love; it’s an inspiring tale about the merging of two cultures and faiths, all centered around the enchanting backdrop of a bookstore!
What a perfect way to kick off the holiday season!
December 19, 2025
Such a fun Christmas/Hanukkah story!
December 14, 2025
A pop-up bookshop in a small town as the setting, with mentions of real-life book titles is an immediate 4 stars! 📚 ❤️
December 18, 2025
This was a short holiday novella and I was drawn to it immediately since it's about both Chanukah and Christmas AND books. I'm probably going to sound like I'm quoting Adam Sandler's Chanukah Song but since there aren't many stories about Chanukah it was cool to have the female main character being Jewish. But sending her to a small town in Texas to run a book shop at the holiday market because she was Jewish and wouldn't care about being away for Christmas was not cool. Sadly that was relatable because I've encountered things like that a few times and it's really frustrating that not everyone has the same respect or understanding that there are multiple holidays and religions out there. I've always liked learning about other cultures and traditions and throughout the years I've definitely educated some people who are otherwise clueless and curious.
At first Shira shields her true identity by using a more generic name and not revealing that she's Jewish to everyone especially when she starts spending time with Jonny and his family and participating in all of the town and his family's Christmas traditions. but when Jonny realizes this he decides to make a grand gesture by building a giant menorah in the town square by the Christmas tree to make her realize she shouldn't have to hide who she is when the town clearly loves and accepts her. Of course they both end up falling though they don't want to admit it because they know she's going back to Chicago and he never stays in one place because he has always been known as a trouble making wild child. Thankfully they do both realize they love each other so we don't have to go through the annoying breakup before they end up together drama for too long. While I totally saw the whole thing about buying the mill and turning it into a permanent book store thing coming, that didn't ruin the story since it's a cute rom-com with a lil spice type of story with a HEA and being about both holidays was quite enjoyable.
At first Shira shields her true identity by using a more generic name and not revealing that she's Jewish to everyone especially when she starts spending time with Jonny and his family and participating in all of the town and his family's Christmas traditions. but when Jonny realizes this he decides to make a grand gesture by building a giant menorah in the town square by the Christmas tree to make her realize she shouldn't have to hide who she is when the town clearly loves and accepts her. Of course they both end up falling though they don't want to admit it because they know she's going back to Chicago and he never stays in one place because he has always been known as a trouble making wild child. Thankfully they do both realize they love each other so we don't have to go through the annoying breakup before they end up together drama for too long. While I totally saw the whole thing about buying the mill and turning it into a permanent book store thing coming, that didn't ruin the story since it's a cute rom-com with a lil spice type of story with a HEA and being about both holidays was quite enjoyable.
November 26, 2025
Thank you @alibradybooks for sending me this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Ali Brady’s Merry Little Bookshop is another delightful holiday novella – their second one celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah. I’m starting to love the tradition they’re building. Emotional and full of heart, it’s a story about finding community and unexpected connection.
Shira Schwartz is sent to small-town Azalea, Texas, to run a December pop-up bookstore, an assignment her company assumes she won’t mind because she doesn’t celebrate Christmas. What they overlook? She’s missing Hanukkah with her family and friends. Small-town charm sweeps her in pretty quickly, especially Jonny McKay, the flirty hometown boy running the town’s Christmas market on his dad’s behalf.
I loved Jonny’s family, especially his sister Bianca and his mom, and how wholeheartedly they embraced Shira and her Judaism. The town does too, and their effort to celebrate Hanukkah with her was genuinely moving. I definitely got emotional.
Shira’s instinct to hide her Judaism at first was frustrating to me. I’m sure being the only Jew in a very Christmas-focused town is isolating, but the way the community ultimately welcomes her is a beautiful reminder of the book’s message: sharing traditions is one way to see each other more fully, honor the ways we’re different, and recognize all the many threads that connect us.”
And of course the pop-up bookstore in the midst of a Christmas market is irresistible. This novella once again made me want to open a bookshop and spend all day recommending books to eager customers.
Merry Little Bookshop is a warm, charming holiday read with meaningful representation and a lovely message about belonging.
Ali Brady’s Merry Little Bookshop is another delightful holiday novella – their second one celebrating both Christmas and Hanukkah. I’m starting to love the tradition they’re building. Emotional and full of heart, it’s a story about finding community and unexpected connection.
Shira Schwartz is sent to small-town Azalea, Texas, to run a December pop-up bookstore, an assignment her company assumes she won’t mind because she doesn’t celebrate Christmas. What they overlook? She’s missing Hanukkah with her family and friends. Small-town charm sweeps her in pretty quickly, especially Jonny McKay, the flirty hometown boy running the town’s Christmas market on his dad’s behalf.
I loved Jonny’s family, especially his sister Bianca and his mom, and how wholeheartedly they embraced Shira and her Judaism. The town does too, and their effort to celebrate Hanukkah with her was genuinely moving. I definitely got emotional.
Shira’s instinct to hide her Judaism at first was frustrating to me. I’m sure being the only Jew in a very Christmas-focused town is isolating, but the way the community ultimately welcomes her is a beautiful reminder of the book’s message: sharing traditions is one way to see each other more fully, honor the ways we’re different, and recognize all the many threads that connect us.”
And of course the pop-up bookstore in the midst of a Christmas market is irresistible. This novella once again made me want to open a bookshop and spend all day recommending books to eager customers.
Merry Little Bookshop is a warm, charming holiday read with meaningful representation and a lovely message about belonging.
December 17, 2025
As always, Ali Brady never disappoint! Their novels and novellas are pure romantic joy in a book. 💙
This holiday novella takes place in December in Texas, and it has the perfect mix of holiday cheer, tacos, twang, and steamy romance. My absolute favorite thing about this novella and the one they wrote last year is the representation of Hanukkah. There are so few holiday novels that showcase any holiday other than Christmas, and while I myself am a Christmas celebrator, I love learning about other traditions and seeing more diversity represented in the genre.
First of all, Jonny and Shira — swoon. I adored them both. I’m glad Shira got more brave as the story went on (I hated her needing to be “Sarah” for part of the book). Jonny is the perfect leading man — thoughtful, sweet, a good listener, and does everything in his power to help her feel welcome, loved, and supported.
There were so many moments that I just had a huge smile on my face, and still others where I shed a few tears. I loved Shira opening up to Jonny about her Hanukkah traditions and also loved Jonny sharing some of his Christmas traditions with her.
And the bookstore! Oh, the bookstore. 💙
This was heartwarming, lovely, and steamy. It was a wonderful Hanukkah & Christmas romance, and I loved every single perfect page.
Go and grab this novella — you can totally read it by the Christmas tree or the menorah! 🕎 🎄 ❄️
December 27, 2025
I went into "Merry Little Bookshop" by Ali Brady not quite knowing what to expect. I figured it would be another typical, lighthearted Chanukah/Christmas romance story, but this book turned out to be so much more than that.
Why I Loved It:
* Authentic Representation: As a reader, I deeply appreciated the Jewish representation throughout the story. Seeing mentions of things like BBYO was such a wonderful touch, it truly made me feel seen. Of course, knowing this is co-written by the talented Alison Hammer, I shouldn't have expected anything less than that level of heart and authenticity.
* The Characters: I fell in love with Jonny and Shira. Their chemistry was palpable, and I found myself rooting for both of them from the very beginning. They felt like real people with real vulnerabilities.
* A Love Letter to Books: Just like in "The Battle of the Bookshops," I adored all the literary mentions. It adds such a cozy, relatable layer for any book lover.
At its core, this is a beautiful story about the power of being seen and accepted. It’s about the journey of finding that one person you can finally be your true self with. Whether you're looking for a holiday read or just a story with deep emotional resonance, I cannot recommend this one enough!
Why I Loved It:
* Authentic Representation: As a reader, I deeply appreciated the Jewish representation throughout the story. Seeing mentions of things like BBYO was such a wonderful touch, it truly made me feel seen. Of course, knowing this is co-written by the talented Alison Hammer, I shouldn't have expected anything less than that level of heart and authenticity.
* The Characters: I fell in love with Jonny and Shira. Their chemistry was palpable, and I found myself rooting for both of them from the very beginning. They felt like real people with real vulnerabilities.
* A Love Letter to Books: Just like in "The Battle of the Bookshops," I adored all the literary mentions. It adds such a cozy, relatable layer for any book lover.
At its core, this is a beautiful story about the power of being seen and accepted. It’s about the journey of finding that one person you can finally be your true self with. Whether you're looking for a holiday read or just a story with deep emotional resonance, I cannot recommend this one enough!
November 14, 2025
For anyone who loves a small-town holiday story this is everything. The main characters are likable and you just want them to be happy. The citizens of Azlea are fun and welcoming, the McKay crew is everything you would want a family to be, and the town really loves having a pop-up bookstore.
Mixed in with all the good stuff is Shira’s feelings about hiding her true self or letting everyone know the real her. Her growth and self-acceptance are heartfelt and will make you smile. I think the small town was something she needed to experience because she got a pinch of found family, a feeling of belonging even though she was different, and she learned to be proud of herself.
Now let’s talk about Jonny. He had a reputation in high school that followed him into adulthood. He was tall and handsome, and adored Shira from the beginning. His grand gestures made me cry and his plea for to “stay” over and over just about broke me.
This was a quick read that was not only well paced but so hard to put down. I think this would make an excellent holiday movie.
Mixed in with all the good stuff is Shira’s feelings about hiding her true self or letting everyone know the real her. Her growth and self-acceptance are heartfelt and will make you smile. I think the small town was something she needed to experience because she got a pinch of found family, a feeling of belonging even though she was different, and she learned to be proud of herself.
Now let’s talk about Jonny. He had a reputation in high school that followed him into adulthood. He was tall and handsome, and adored Shira from the beginning. His grand gestures made me cry and his plea for to “stay” over and over just about broke me.
This was a quick read that was not only well paced but so hard to put down. I think this would make an excellent holiday movie.
December 20, 2025
Another gem of a holiday “novella” from Ali Brady. This one really is more of a full book length and I’m
not complaining. Shira Schwartz is sent to Azalea, TX to run a pop-up bookstore for the holidays. The store is located inside a Christmas market. It turns out Jonny McKay was the one who arranged for the bookstore to come to the market.
After a fun Thanksgiving meet cute, the two start to spend time together which is helpful for the isolation Shira feels and the apprehension that Jonny feels about his future. It was to see these two seemingly opposites bond and get together over time.
The side characters of Jonny’s family, Shira’s friends, and the townspeople were fantastic. I could read more books about Shira’s friend group. Hint Hint. As always with Ali Brady, there is ample Jewish rep and I loved how we got to experience Shira’s Hanukkah traditions and Jonny’s Christmas traditions. The epilogue was chef’s kiss. And while this book did not feature strip dreidel, it will leave you never looking at a pop-up bookstore the same way again.
not complaining. Shira Schwartz is sent to Azalea, TX to run a pop-up bookstore for the holidays. The store is located inside a Christmas market. It turns out Jonny McKay was the one who arranged for the bookstore to come to the market.
After a fun Thanksgiving meet cute, the two start to spend time together which is helpful for the isolation Shira feels and the apprehension that Jonny feels about his future. It was to see these two seemingly opposites bond and get together over time.
The side characters of Jonny’s family, Shira’s friends, and the townspeople were fantastic. I could read more books about Shira’s friend group. Hint Hint. As always with Ali Brady, there is ample Jewish rep and I loved how we got to experience Shira’s Hanukkah traditions and Jonny’s Christmas traditions. The epilogue was chef’s kiss. And while this book did not feature strip dreidel, it will leave you never looking at a pop-up bookstore the same way again.
November 12, 2025
I loved this book — the perfect blend of Hanukkah and Christmas cheer. ✨🕎🎄 I actually learned so much about Hanukkah along the way, and it added such a meaningful layer to the story.
Jonny was the absolute standout for me: flirty, sexy, charming, and so endearing. And our female lead? Shira - Ambitious, sweet, loyal to her friends — I adored her. Their chemistry was chef’s kiss.
The pop-up bookshop setting was pure magic, and Jonny’s family brought so much heart. Even the third-act breakup was done beautifully (for once, I wasn’t yelling at the pages 😅).
Such a cozy, romantic holiday read — highly recommend curling up with this one. ❤️📚✨
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own. 4.5 rounded up
Jonny was the absolute standout for me: flirty, sexy, charming, and so endearing. And our female lead? Shira - Ambitious, sweet, loyal to her friends — I adored her. Their chemistry was chef’s kiss.
The pop-up bookshop setting was pure magic, and Jonny’s family brought so much heart. Even the third-act breakup was done beautifully (for once, I wasn’t yelling at the pages 😅).
Such a cozy, romantic holiday read — highly recommend curling up with this one. ❤️📚✨
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy. Opinions are my own. 4.5 rounded up
December 18, 2025
4.5 stars! Oh my goodness! I cannot remember having had such a happy cry from a book in this entire year (and the happy tears were throughout the book by the way!) I loved it - the lessons throughout the book about identity, family, history, tradition and the way books help us find navigating tools to manage it all- ahh so very perfect! In fact it would have been 5 stars, but I can’t exactly tell you why without spoilers. I will tell you there is a good chunk of spice, but that is not a reason not to read this one! In fact for those who don’t like spice, ironically you might like some aspects of how it’s handled in this book. Ali Brady is a rockstar! I’m not sure if this a novella, but I sure flew through it like it was! I bet so will you!
December 20, 2025
While Merry Little Bookshop by Ali Brady is listed as a 'novella', in reality this is a fully fleshed out novel, albeit fairly short at 236 pages. I absolutely adored this book, and as it was the first novel by the duo that I have read, I have discovered a 'new to me' author that I am now adding numerous books to my TBR.
I loved the theme of acceptance and finding a home in unfamiliar places that was woven throughout this sweet, slightly spicy, romance. The melding of Jewish and Christian holiday traditions was beautifully depicted, and oh-so romantic! The authors' appreciation for the importance of independent book stores was abundantly evident, and fully appreciated by me.
Anyone looking for a quick, can't put down holiday romance should certainly pick this one up.
I loved the theme of acceptance and finding a home in unfamiliar places that was woven throughout this sweet, slightly spicy, romance. The melding of Jewish and Christian holiday traditions was beautifully depicted, and oh-so romantic! The authors' appreciation for the importance of independent book stores was abundantly evident, and fully appreciated by me.
Anyone looking for a quick, can't put down holiday romance should certainly pick this one up.
November 12, 2025
I want to live in this book until the New Year💕 It is the perfect bookworm romance for the holiday season. And fair warning…get ready to fall in love with your next book boyfriend 🔥 Not only is Jonny tall, muscular, boyishly handsome, and kind, but he says things like this:
“…novels are just self-help books in disguise. Whether it’s literary fiction about the AIDS epidemic, a fantasy about a chosen one deciding to be brave, or a mystery where the detective’s solving his own mess—it’s all about learning how to be human.”
I mean come on!!!! What bookworm can resist!?
Do yourself a favor and get this for your holiday reading. You won’t regret it!!
👀What to expect:
~ 170 pages (long novella or short novel)
Small town setting in Texas
Cozy holiday vibes
Big chaotic family
Pickup truck hijinks
Bookstore spice
“Everything’s bigger in Texas” 😉
Open door
Dual POV
FMC celebrates Hanukkah
MMC celebrates Christmas
Sharing holiday traditions
Finding where you belong
“…novels are just self-help books in disguise. Whether it’s literary fiction about the AIDS epidemic, a fantasy about a chosen one deciding to be brave, or a mystery where the detective’s solving his own mess—it’s all about learning how to be human.”
I mean come on!!!! What bookworm can resist!?
Do yourself a favor and get this for your holiday reading. You won’t regret it!!
👀What to expect:
~ 170 pages (long novella or short novel)
Small town setting in Texas
Cozy holiday vibes
Big chaotic family
Pickup truck hijinks
Bookstore spice
“Everything’s bigger in Texas” 😉
Open door
Dual POV
FMC celebrates Hanukkah
MMC celebrates Christmas
Sharing holiday traditions
Finding where you belong
November 20, 2025
Shira is assigned to go to Texas to set up and run a pop-up bookstore for the holidays. She is annoyed because her boss thinks because she doesn’t celebrate Christmas, she won’t mind. But he has forgotten she celebrates Hanukkah, so she is annoyed. She is focused on counting down the days of returning home until she meets someone special. Can she make the most out of it?
Another holiday magic of friendship, love, and celebration! A heartfelt and entertaining read with a little spice mixed in! Be sure to add it to your holiday TBR list!
Another holiday magic of friendship, love, and celebration! A heartfelt and entertaining read with a little spice mixed in! Be sure to add it to your holiday TBR list!
December 18, 2025
This is the type of Christmas book I’ve been waiting for. I enjoyed this so much. It really felt like a hallmark movie in the best way. So festive, and sweet. The small town vibes were immaculate. And the books about books part!!! The romance was perfect. Both of the mains Shira and Jonny were very likable and easy to root for! I loved the found family, it just felt so perfect. This book makes mention of Hanukkah a few times, but definitely feels more Christmas to me. I kept reading a chapter at a time because I just didn’t want this to end.
December 21, 2025
Such an enjoyable holiday book that features Hanukkah & Christmas, the sweetest small town, a loving family & a fantastic couple.
Shira is sent to a small town in Texas to open a pop up book shop & feels alone since she’s the only one there who is Jewish & is away from her friends during Hanukkah. Jonny is temporarily back in town to help his dad run the Christmas market, where the popup book shop is.
Along with the sweet & spicy romance between Shira & Jonny, it’s a beautiful story of community & how important reading can be.
An important quote: “A reminder that sharing our traditions is one way to see each other more fully, honor the ways we're different, and recognize all the many threads that connect us.”
Shira is sent to a small town in Texas to open a pop up book shop & feels alone since she’s the only one there who is Jewish & is away from her friends during Hanukkah. Jonny is temporarily back in town to help his dad run the Christmas market, where the popup book shop is.
Along with the sweet & spicy romance between Shira & Jonny, it’s a beautiful story of community & how important reading can be.
An important quote: “A reminder that sharing our traditions is one way to see each other more fully, honor the ways we're different, and recognize all the many threads that connect us.”
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