Auld Lang Wish: A Spicy New Years Eve Novella

by Kate Rozy

Twelve New Year’s Eve grapes. One stranger who shouldn’t exist.

Rae doesn’t do resolutions. She pours drinks, dodges creeps, and counts tips, not blessings. But when a midnight manifestation ritual brings a stranger named Alan into her life, everything starts glitching in ways even magic shouldn’t allow.

Alan is steady, patient, and exactly the kind of man Rae stopped believing in a long time ago. He shows up when she needs him most, says all the right things, and makes her wonder if maybe the universe is finally cutting her a break. But the more perfect things become, the more she suspects something isn’t right.

Because wishes aren’t supposed to last forever, and when the clock strikes midnight, Rae might lose the one thing she never wished for but always needed.

Perfect for fans of The Holiday Swap and spicy rom-coms with magical twists, Auld Lang Wish is a laugh-out-loud, heart-melting New Year’s novella for anyone who’s ever wanted one last chance to believe in love again.

96 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 16, 2025

Reviews

[Xandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kate Rozy has done it again. This cozy, sweet, romance novel is perfect. It is so easy to read and well written.

Rae is a bartender just trying to make it through the holidays. Rae doesn't think she deserves to be happy and if she does get something good it wont stick around long enough for her to enjoy it. 12 grapes = 12 wishes. Rae gets put to the test. Is she going to run or is she going to stay and fight for her happiness.

Alan is a grape wish come true. Magic at its best. He's charming, sweet, handsome, and calm. Alan is patient with Rae. He is truly a wish come true in a book boyfriend form.

The other characters bring such a funny charm to the book. Ashar is totally over it and Blair is all for it. They bring such a hilarious aspect to the story. If you are looking for an easy, well written, romance comfy read Kate Rozy brings it in this magical cozy read.

[Holly Capps · Rating 5 out of 5]

Such a cute, sweet, heartwarming read. Rae, the never-lucky bartender, and Alan, the perfect boyfriend, make a cute pair that help restore the magic of the holidays. Rae makes a last minute, desperate decision to partake in the New Year’s tradition of 12 grapes for 12 wishes. Only this time, the wishes are answered, much to her surprise. Alan arrives with the calm steadiness that Rae has never had, and throughout the story, teaches her that she is deserving of good things and deserving of blessings that stay. Sweet, gentle, heartwarming story of learning to love yourself despite all of the hard times that may be faced and finding that special person to help you believe that miracles do happen.

Favorite quotes:
“You deserve better than cleaning up other people’s mistakes.”
“I think you have been rescuing yourself for a long time. I just want to stand beside you while you do it.”
I don’t know who broke that part of you…or who made you believe love has an expiration date, but I’m not them.”
“You deserve someone who stays. Even if you don’t believe it yet.”
“I will fight to stay. Just do not let go.”

[Kali Bare · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have to preface this by saying I have never read an actual romance novel/novella. This was my first. Normally, my book genres of choice are psychological thrillers, horror, splatterpunk. Definitely not romance.

But there was magic, so I figured "what the heck," and gave it a try. I am so thankful I did, and I cannot wait to read the other magical love stories.

This novella was beautifully written, and did everything correctly to keep me turning the pages. (Okay, clicking, because EBook). Kate Rozy did a remarkable job of portraying the utter hurt, love and giddiness that came with Rae and Alan. If you are already a romance fan, you will love this book. And if you're like me, and it's your first ever romance book, she'll leave you addicted to them.

[Cassi Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

This novella was the perfect mix of steam, sweetness, and New Year’s sparkle. Kate Rozy delivers a quick, addictive read that somehow feels both fun and emotional, hitting all the cozy holiday vibes and the spicy pages we’re here for.

The chemistry between the characters jumps off the page from the start—playful, intense, and impossible not to root for. Even in such a short read, Rozy builds a connection that feels real and satisfying, making every moment (and every kiss) count.

It’s the kind of novella you can devour in one sitting and still think about afterward. Festive, flirty, and full of heart—exactly what a New Year’s Eve romance should be. ✨🥂🔥

Perfect for anyone wanting a quick holiday escape with plenty of heat and a guaranteed smile at the end.

[Kris · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s Rae and Alan’s turn for more magic wish hijinks!

This was a bit emotional - Rae is afraid to let anyone in, so she pushes them away.
Alan is ‘new to town’, but can’t quite seem to put anything into place - almost like he was wished into being, even…

I loved this group of friends, they were serious when needed, fun, for the most part, but absolutely had your back when needed.

Cinnamon roll, ‘lucky’ MMC.
Grumpy, jaded bartender MFC.

A little drama, a little angst, but overall, enjoyable. A great read.

[Tammy · Rating 3 out of 5]

I received an early copy of this book but the review is my own honest opinion. I have read Kate Rozy's previous two books in this series and they were more in depth than this one. I found that this one lacked plot and while I understand that it is a novella I felt the characters fell flat, especially Ben (Who is he!?). Not terrible for a quick read to meet a book goal but her other books were better in my opinion so definitely give those a read!

[Lisa Kimbrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

ARC review:

Love these quick like romance novellas. Full of magic and real life dilemmas. We all have that thought that we aren’t good enough but what if some magic showed us we might just be enough.

[Lauren Ehlers · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read the others in this series from Kate Rozy and I’ve thoroughly enjoyed it. There is yearning, tension, and good banter between the main characters. I look forward to reading more from this author and continuing this series.

[Candice Horn · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very cutesy book, where the FMC made a wish that came true and she had to fight her inner demons to know that she deserves the best in life.

I really enjoyed this book and would recommend it for anyone needing a light read with a happily ever after.

[Tabitha S Frey · Rating 3 out of 5]

cute story. interesting concept. sometimes the FMC's internal monologue feels a little over the top - a lot of cliche and metaphor. felt like I lost the thread of the story at times. but by the end everything wraps up well. fun new years themed read.

[Laura Moncrief · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great magical novella!! I love the way Kate brings back her other magical couples to each new book! Great short read!!

[Sarah Hallman · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love that these novellas keep up with popular, current trends. I enjoyed this love story and I hope my new years is as magical!

[Angee Owens · Rating 4 out of 5]

A short and sweet story. Written Well with great character development. Enjoyable read.

[Coley · Rating 5 out of 5]

So freaking cute.

[Ameenekosan · Rating 3 out of 5]

amazing and cute story about wishes and dream man coming true .. or do they ?