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A Very Inconvenient Christmas
It’s all fun and games until your rival becomes your Christmas complication.My day is already a disaster—my ex is marrying my ex–best friend, and Cole Danner (a walking irritation in a very distracting plaid shirt) just sabotaged my biggest project. Then we both show up at the most Christmas-obsessed house in Arizona, fighting over the same rare reindeer collectible owned by Marigold Winters, a woman who takes “holiday spirit” to alarming levels.
One argument, one torn-in-half reindeer, and one very magical homeowner later… we’re pulled into a festive world of Marigold’s own making, tasked with completing a series of holiday challenges together, if we ever want out.
Now I’m stuck with Cole navigating magical errands, chaotic surprises, forced teamwork, and a spark that definitely shouldn’t exist between rivals. And somewhere between the bickering and Marigold’s unpredictable assignments, I’m starting to realize the most inconvenient part of this Christmas might be falling for the last guy I'd ever expect.
A laugh-out-loud, slow-burn holiday romcom filled with chaos, chemistry, and a dash of Christmas magic.
One argument, one torn-in-half reindeer, and one very magical homeowner later… we’re pulled into a festive world of Marigold’s own making, tasked with completing a series of holiday challenges together, if we ever want out.
Now I’m stuck with Cole navigating magical errands, chaotic surprises, forced teamwork, and a spark that definitely shouldn’t exist between rivals. And somewhere between the bickering and Marigold’s unpredictable assignments, I’m starting to realize the most inconvenient part of this Christmas might be falling for the last guy I'd ever expect.
A laugh-out-loud, slow-burn holiday romcom filled with chaos, chemistry, and a dash of Christmas magic.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 17, 2025
145 people are currently reading
252 people want to read
About the author
Becky Monson
22 books1,314 followersBy day, Becky Monson is a mother to three young children, and a wife. By night, she escapes with reading books and writing. In her debut novel, Becky uses humor and true-life experiences to bring her characters to life. She loves all things chick-lit (movies, books, etc.), and wishes she had a British accent. She has recently given up Diet Coke for the fiftieth time and is hopeful this time will last... but it probably won't.
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December 28, 2025This was pretty silly
December 18, 2025
This might be the most Christmasy holiday romance I’ve read this year! It’s a festive explosion. Finally! When I pick up a holiday read, that’s exactly what I want. Tree farms, Christmas pageants, holiday markets, snow-filled fun! It's all here. And more!
First over a property development dispute and then over a rare Christmas collectible toy, Nora and Cole clash not once but twice in the span of a single day. To teach them a lesson, the eccentric, holiday-loving Marigold Winters magically traps them in a winter wonderland of festive challenges they must complete together in order to escape. It’s delightful chaos!
I loved seeing Nora and Cole slowly rediscover their love for the holidays, reminding them of the joy they’ve been missing. Their banter was super warm and flirty, and the romantic progression actually felt realistic. No insta-love, which can be hard to do in under 200 pages! This was the sweetest, coziest little burst of holiday cheer!
(heat level: kisses only)
First over a property development dispute and then over a rare Christmas collectible toy, Nora and Cole clash not once but twice in the span of a single day. To teach them a lesson, the eccentric, holiday-loving Marigold Winters magically traps them in a winter wonderland of festive challenges they must complete together in order to escape. It’s delightful chaos!
I loved seeing Nora and Cole slowly rediscover their love for the holidays, reminding them of the joy they’ve been missing. Their banter was super warm and flirty, and the romantic progression actually felt realistic. No insta-love, which can be hard to do in under 200 pages! This was the sweetest, coziest little burst of holiday cheer!
(heat level: kisses only)
December 5, 2025
Wow! What a fun book full of Christmas magic. A Very Inconvenient Christmas is the cute novella length story of Cole and Nora! These two definitely start off on the wrong foot at a town council meeting and things really escalate when they end up fighting over a high demand Christmas toy, which then leads them to being whisked away with the help of a “Christmas fairy godmother” named Marigold Winters. Marigold’s magic really helps these two find their Christmas spirits, serve others, rekindle their relationships with their families, and find love!
I really loved this Christmas romcom with a twist! The magical elements were so fun and made for a super cute way to get two grumpy Christmas cynics to see Christmas through a different lens and have a change of heart, not only about Christmas, but about each other!
Favorite quotes:
“Everyone knows you don’t win with arguments; you win with schmoozing. And maybe baked goods.”
“I didn’t think you turned into your parents until you had kids of your own, but apparently it also happens when you’re forced to face irritating, attractive men.”
“It’s official: Mrs. Claus is not my forte. Give me a construction project to manage and I’ll crush it. Stick me in a wig and tell me to spread cheer? Disaster.”
“I like your laugh,” I say before thinking it through. He eyes me, one eyebrow moving slowly up his forehead. Probably because I’m usually insulting him. “Do you?” “I mean, it’s also kind of annoying, but sure. Sometimes it’s okay.” His lips pull into a smirk. “Careful, Nora. That felt like a compliment.”
“I don’t know why I’m emotional,” I say, feeling dumb. He keeps his hand on my back. “Maybe because the kid who wrote that letter still believed in magic. And the grown-up she’s become misses her.”
I really loved this Christmas romcom with a twist! The magical elements were so fun and made for a super cute way to get two grumpy Christmas cynics to see Christmas through a different lens and have a change of heart, not only about Christmas, but about each other!
Favorite quotes:
“Everyone knows you don’t win with arguments; you win with schmoozing. And maybe baked goods.”
“I didn’t think you turned into your parents until you had kids of your own, but apparently it also happens when you’re forced to face irritating, attractive men.”
“It’s official: Mrs. Claus is not my forte. Give me a construction project to manage and I’ll crush it. Stick me in a wig and tell me to spread cheer? Disaster.”
“I like your laugh,” I say before thinking it through. He eyes me, one eyebrow moving slowly up his forehead. Probably because I’m usually insulting him. “Do you?” “I mean, it’s also kind of annoying, but sure. Sometimes it’s okay.” His lips pull into a smirk. “Careful, Nora. That felt like a compliment.”
“I don’t know why I’m emotional,” I say, feeling dumb. He keeps his hand on my back. “Maybe because the kid who wrote that letter still believed in magic. And the grown-up she’s become misses her.”
November 17, 2025
This book was a perfect read for the busy holiday season. It was shorter, around 150 pages, and filled with so many holiday traditions!
Cole and Nora both have their reasons for no longer feeling the magic of Christmas. They start off as work enemies, but also find themselves trying to pick up the same one toy from a Facebook Marketplace seller, and things escalate from there. This is where it gets fun! The owner, Marigold, has her own brand of Christmas magic. She transports Cole and Nora into situation after situation where they must prove their holiday spirit. These tests were hilarious and often devolved into total chaos!
I loved every minute of it! I loved watching two grinches have their hearts grow at least a few sizes. Cole and Nora had some great banter and chemistry. If you love watching Hallmark Christmas movies, this book is the perfect one to add to your reading list this season!
Cole and Nora both have their reasons for no longer feeling the magic of Christmas. They start off as work enemies, but also find themselves trying to pick up the same one toy from a Facebook Marketplace seller, and things escalate from there. This is where it gets fun! The owner, Marigold, has her own brand of Christmas magic. She transports Cole and Nora into situation after situation where they must prove their holiday spirit. These tests were hilarious and often devolved into total chaos!
I loved every minute of it! I loved watching two grinches have their hearts grow at least a few sizes. Cole and Nora had some great banter and chemistry. If you love watching Hallmark Christmas movies, this book is the perfect one to add to your reading list this season!
Read
November 26, 2025||⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️||
“Just remember . . . Christmas isn’t about toys or tinsel. It’s about connection. The rest is just window dressing.”
What a charming and heartwarming read!! 🥹 This for sure caught me by surprise. I had no idea I would love this as much as I did.
Being whisked away through a series of magical Christmas themed tasks and challenges along with Nora and Cole was so much fun. The journey and growth they experienced was actually incredible! It focused on selflessness, being less cynical, bridging gaps in broken families, re-kindling relationships, and of course, harnessing Christmas cheer. ❤️💚🎄
This was such a cute, feel-good Christmas escape, and I thouroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you so much to the author Becky Monson for the gifted ARC! This was such a treat to read 💖
“Just remember . . . Christmas isn’t about toys or tinsel. It’s about connection. The rest is just window dressing.”
What a charming and heartwarming read!! 🥹 This for sure caught me by surprise. I had no idea I would love this as much as I did.
Being whisked away through a series of magical Christmas themed tasks and challenges along with Nora and Cole was so much fun. The journey and growth they experienced was actually incredible! It focused on selflessness, being less cynical, bridging gaps in broken families, re-kindling relationships, and of course, harnessing Christmas cheer. ❤️💚🎄
This was such a cute, feel-good Christmas escape, and I thouroughly enjoyed it!
Thank you so much to the author Becky Monson for the gifted ARC! This was such a treat to read 💖
November 18, 2025
“I didn’t think you turned into your parents until you had kids of your own, but apparently it also happens when you’re forced to face irritating, attractive men.”
There’s nothing I love more than a story full of Christmas magic, and this one has a literal sprinkling of said magic. Nora and Cole are rivals from the start and when they find themselves at Marigold’s, after the same hard-to-get toy of the season, the fun and games begin.
In an effort to teach them what truly matters and to capture that Christmas cheer, they find themselves in many different holiday scenes and scenarios–still exhibiting that intense competition. I loved the swirls of enchantment that slowly builds with every Christmas endeavor. Tree cutting, sledding, mall Santa and Mrs, a zany holiday play, gingerbread house building, answering letters to Santa, and more, this darling story brings all the zest and pep to give anyone the Christmas spirit.
True to Monson’s style, the elements of romance zip and zing, giving this one all the Hallmark feels and feelings of holiday delight. Who knows? Marigold could bring us more Christmas adventures in the future and I wouldn’t be mad about it.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
There’s nothing I love more than a story full of Christmas magic, and this one has a literal sprinkling of said magic. Nora and Cole are rivals from the start and when they find themselves at Marigold’s, after the same hard-to-get toy of the season, the fun and games begin.
In an effort to teach them what truly matters and to capture that Christmas cheer, they find themselves in many different holiday scenes and scenarios–still exhibiting that intense competition. I loved the swirls of enchantment that slowly builds with every Christmas endeavor. Tree cutting, sledding, mall Santa and Mrs, a zany holiday play, gingerbread house building, answering letters to Santa, and more, this darling story brings all the zest and pep to give anyone the Christmas spirit.
True to Monson’s style, the elements of romance zip and zing, giving this one all the Hallmark feels and feelings of holiday delight. Who knows? Marigold could bring us more Christmas adventures in the future and I wouldn’t be mad about it.
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and were voluntarily given.*
December 9, 2025
Quick listen on Audible. A bit confused by the male narrator coming in for the epilogue but I respect the choice.
December 21, 2025
Oh my gosh, I loved this one!!!
Super cute and super festive with a fun fantasy element, Nora and Cole had a delightful enemies to lovers vibe. While the book is short, their relationship was so well developed and never felt rushed to me. I could see their feelings change with each festive event they were forced to attend.
I read this on a whim after seeing another GR friend rate it highly and I’m so glad I made time for it. It was so much fun! It also had quite a few humorous moments and I laughed aloud several times.
And that cover is super cute and perfectly captures the vibe of this book.
Super cute and super festive with a fun fantasy element, Nora and Cole had a delightful enemies to lovers vibe. While the book is short, their relationship was so well developed and never felt rushed to me. I could see their feelings change with each festive event they were forced to attend.
I read this on a whim after seeing another GR friend rate it highly and I’m so glad I made time for it. It was so much fun! It also had quite a few humorous moments and I laughed aloud several times.
And that cover is super cute and perfectly captures the vibe of this book.
November 18, 2025
This book was delightful and put me in the Christmas Spirit! I loved the lead characters and especially Marigold! She nailed it! I hope we see more of her! All the “activities” were superbly Christmassy! And awesome swoon! Nailed it again!!!!
December 30, 2025
This is one of those books you pick up thinking, “This one sounds really cute,” and suddenly you’re way too invested. Our main character, Nora, is already having a truly awful day—like, your ex marrying your ex–best friend levels of awful—and then Cole Danner, who is annoying, smug, and unfortunately very attractive, enters, making her day even worse. Their rivalry is top-tier fun, and when they both end up at the most outrageous Christmas house fighting over the same hard-to-find Goldie Glitterhoof reindeer collectible, I couldn't wait to see how it would turn out.
This is when things go off the rails in the best way. Nora and Cole fight over who gets to buy the toy from the very festive homeowner, Marigold, who seems to possess some magical energy. Goldie Glitterhoof ends up destroyed and Laura and Cole find themselves in a Christmas wonderland, having to work together on several challenges in order to return home. Cue the banter, the ridiculous situations and forced proximity.
I received a paperback of this one for Christmas, but also listened to the audiobook, which made it even better. I loved the dual narration, especially for an enemies/rivals-to-lovers story, and the female narrator, Stefanie Kay is one of my favorites—she nails the humor, the frustration, and those little moments where feelings start sneaking in. It added an extra layer of fun and made the Christmas chaos feel even more alive.
I loved how the romance sneaks up on you. One minute they’re bickering about everything in these magical situations, the next you’re like, "Wait… when did I start rooting for this?" The spark between them felt natural, not rushed, and all the Christmas magic made everything cozier and more fun.
If you’re in the mood for enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, holiday chaos, and a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers the feels, this one is a good pick. It’s festive, funny, and a great escape.
This is when things go off the rails in the best way. Nora and Cole fight over who gets to buy the toy from the very festive homeowner, Marigold, who seems to possess some magical energy. Goldie Glitterhoof ends up destroyed and Laura and Cole find themselves in a Christmas wonderland, having to work together on several challenges in order to return home. Cue the banter, the ridiculous situations and forced proximity.
I received a paperback of this one for Christmas, but also listened to the audiobook, which made it even better. I loved the dual narration, especially for an enemies/rivals-to-lovers story, and the female narrator, Stefanie Kay is one of my favorites—she nails the humor, the frustration, and those little moments where feelings start sneaking in. It added an extra layer of fun and made the Christmas chaos feel even more alive.
I loved how the romance sneaks up on you. One minute they’re bickering about everything in these magical situations, the next you’re like, "Wait… when did I start rooting for this?" The spark between them felt natural, not rushed, and all the Christmas magic made everything cozier and more fun.
If you’re in the mood for enemies-to-friends-to-lovers, holiday chaos, and a story that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers the feels, this one is a good pick. It’s festive, funny, and a great escape.
December 3, 2025
Enough wit and whimsy to warm the most cynical heart.♥️
Is there anything hotter than a man who remains calm and competent in the face of chaos?
Maybe if he’s also a grown-up skater boi in wrinkled plaid.
Nora and Cole are forced to cooperate in various holiday scenarios together after circumstances had just made them rivals. Twice.
The banter is absolute perfection, and I love how their admiration and attraction grew as they faced each new challenge. But I was 100% smitten with Cole.
Calm, helpful, playful—he adapted and gave his best no matter what, and Nora didn’t miss it.
You’ll laugh out loud and root for both of them to get everything they’ve ever wanted.
Is there anything hotter than a man who remains calm and competent in the face of chaos?
Maybe if he’s also a grown-up skater boi in wrinkled plaid.
Nora and Cole are forced to cooperate in various holiday scenarios together after circumstances had just made them rivals. Twice.
The banter is absolute perfection, and I love how their admiration and attraction grew as they faced each new challenge. But I was 100% smitten with Cole.
Calm, helpful, playful—he adapted and gave his best no matter what, and Nora didn’t miss it.
You’ll laugh out loud and root for both of them to get everything they’ve ever wanted.
Read
January 19, 2026So much silliness. I listened to this in keeping with my light hearted Christmas entertainment. I always wonder why so much magic and good feeling around the supernatural is allowed for Christmas stories that has nothing to do with the Jesus story. That magic/miracle is apparently out of the question but other fairy godmothers or magical people helping folks be better versions of themselves at Christmas time is totally allowed. In this case, I appreciated the healthy family demands in the background of the story in addition to the light hearted romance.
November 21, 2025
Don’t miss this delightful, creatively original Christmas story! A true reminder of the reason for the season sprinkled with a love story. I will be rereading it every holiday season. ❤️🎄❤️
November 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
GENRE
-Christmas magical realism
CONTENT
-🤬: mild language (2 a, 2 d, 3 h), some crude language (d-bag)
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️:
Earlier this week, I posted a roundup of "older" Christmas books and one of Becky Monson's books was in there. She messaged me to say "thank you" for including hers. I told her "you're welcome" (obviously) but went on to say that I feel like older book sometimes get lost in the new releases, but I loved all of those ones I shared. Then I said, "I do want to read A Very Inconvenient Christmas, though!!" She responded, "Happy to send you A Very Inconvenient Christmas ebook!" So, HUGE THANK YOU to Becky because I binged this in a twenty-four-hour period and absolutely loved it!
If you read any of the Only Magic in the Building series earlier this year, the kind of magic in this gave off similar vibes to that.
Nora and Cole meet because they are on opposing sides of an issue being presented to the city council. Clearly that leaves a less-than-favorable taste in each of their mouths about the other person. But then they find themselves at a Christmas-obsessed woman's house, arguing over the toy of the year (which neither really wants to do because they don't love Christmas themselves, but they're trying to do good for the nieces in their lives). Marigold, the Christmas-obsessed lady herself, provides the two with multiple opportunities to remedy their Christmas disdain.
I adored the forced proximity, I loved how they begrudgingly worked together to attempt to get home from all of these situations Marigold magically placed them in, and I very much enjoyed watching them soften toward the holiday and also toward each other.
I highly recommend this one! And thank you again, Becky, for the gifted ebook! It was a delightful treat.
Favorite Quotes:
-I sit at a desk for most of the day, for crap’s sake. My best weapon is a strongly worded email.
-“Tell me this isn’t some twisted snow globe.”
“If it is, I’d like a refund.”
-It’s weird how we’re just playing along now instead of fighting. Is this what Stockholm syndrome feels like?
-“I like your laugh,” I say before thinking it through.
He eyes me, one eyebrow moving slowly up his forehead. Probably because I’m usually insulting him. “Do you?”
“I mean, it’s also kind of annoying, but sure. Sometimes it’s okay.”
His lips pull into a smirk. “Careful, Nora. That felt like a compliment.”
-“I don’t know why I’m emotional,” I say, feeling dumb.
He keeps his hand on my back. “Maybe because the kid who wrote that letter still believed in magic. And the grown-up she’s become misses her.”
-"Christmas isn’t about toys or tinsel. It’s about connection. The rest is just window dressing.”
GENRE
-Christmas magical realism
CONTENT
-🤬: mild language (2 a, 2 d, 3 h), some crude language (d-bag)
-❤️: make outs
-⚠️:
Earlier this week, I posted a roundup of "older" Christmas books and one of Becky Monson's books was in there. She messaged me to say "thank you" for including hers. I told her "you're welcome" (obviously) but went on to say that I feel like older book sometimes get lost in the new releases, but I loved all of those ones I shared. Then I said, "I do want to read A Very Inconvenient Christmas, though!!" She responded, "Happy to send you A Very Inconvenient Christmas ebook!" So, HUGE THANK YOU to Becky because I binged this in a twenty-four-hour period and absolutely loved it!
If you read any of the Only Magic in the Building series earlier this year, the kind of magic in this gave off similar vibes to that.
Nora and Cole meet because they are on opposing sides of an issue being presented to the city council. Clearly that leaves a less-than-favorable taste in each of their mouths about the other person. But then they find themselves at a Christmas-obsessed woman's house, arguing over the toy of the year (which neither really wants to do because they don't love Christmas themselves, but they're trying to do good for the nieces in their lives). Marigold, the Christmas-obsessed lady herself, provides the two with multiple opportunities to remedy their Christmas disdain.
I adored the forced proximity, I loved how they begrudgingly worked together to attempt to get home from all of these situations Marigold magically placed them in, and I very much enjoyed watching them soften toward the holiday and also toward each other.
I highly recommend this one! And thank you again, Becky, for the gifted ebook! It was a delightful treat.
Favorite Quotes:
-I sit at a desk for most of the day, for crap’s sake. My best weapon is a strongly worded email.
-“Tell me this isn’t some twisted snow globe.”
“If it is, I’d like a refund.”
-It’s weird how we’re just playing along now instead of fighting. Is this what Stockholm syndrome feels like?
-“I like your laugh,” I say before thinking it through.
He eyes me, one eyebrow moving slowly up his forehead. Probably because I’m usually insulting him. “Do you?”
“I mean, it’s also kind of annoying, but sure. Sometimes it’s okay.”
His lips pull into a smirk. “Careful, Nora. That felt like a compliment.”
-“I don’t know why I’m emotional,” I say, feeling dumb.
He keeps his hand on my back. “Maybe because the kid who wrote that letter still believed in magic. And the grown-up she’s become misses her.”
-"Christmas isn’t about toys or tinsel. It’s about connection. The rest is just window dressing.”
December 10, 2025
A sweet and magical RomCom bringing 2 people together (who both gave up on the meaning of Christmas).
All the feels with laughter and a splash of magic.
All the feels with laughter and a splash of magic.
January 11, 2026
Nora and Cole are two people who managed to grow to dislike one of the prettiest holidays in history of men - Christmas. And what's more, they managed to also dislike each other! But don't worry... one toy and a little bit of magic can do wonders.
Anyways, this book was like a typical Christmas Hallmark movie. The characters had to be a little annoying to make it work and act childish and illogical for a third of the book, but after that, it became pretty wholesome. The romance is honestly just kinda there, however, this was a cozy and easy read - or listen, in my case. 3,25*
Anyways, this book was like a typical Christmas Hallmark movie. The characters had to be a little annoying to make it work and act childish and illogical for a third of the book, but after that, it became pretty wholesome. The romance is honestly just kinda there, however, this was a cozy and easy read - or listen, in my case. 3,25*
December 9, 2025
3.5⭐️ rounded up
December 9, 2025
I love cozy, Christmas reads like this one!! Just what I needed to get out of my reading slump and into some holiday reading fun!!
December 16, 2025
Cute little Hallmarky Christmas story.
December 25, 2025
3.5... super cute enemies to lovers. I appreciate clean holiday romances full of magic!
January 3, 2026
Very fast read. It was ok. Like the equivalent of a hallmark movie but in book form. Basically two Christmas cynics are feuding over a real estate development and fairy Christmas god mother helps to push them together and to see the error of their ways.
December 16, 2025
3 🌟 (Audible Plus Catalog)
Fun Hallmark-esque rom-com.
Fun Hallmark-esque rom-com.
December 31, 2025
I don't know why people persist in writing female adults like horny teenagers with no impulse control or any resemblance of being a professional.
FMC is allegedly 31.
There are better things to read/ listen to.
DNF after chapter 1.
FMC is allegedly 31.
There are better things to read/ listen to.
DNF after chapter 1.
December 20, 2025
super cute little Christmas romance story with a few chuckles and heart warming bits
November 25, 2025
Magical Christmas rom-com
This sweet and clean Christmas rom-com is full of magic, romance and is a great story. Becky Monson has become one of my favorite authors and this story truly warmed my heart ♥️ highly recommend!
This sweet and clean Christmas rom-com is full of magic, romance and is a great story. Becky Monson has become one of my favorite authors and this story truly warmed my heart ♥️ highly recommend!
November 19, 2025
Deck the Halls with Christmas cheer and magic! And definitely add in chemistry, frustration, a sparkly unicorn toy, an enemy, tasks to complete, healing and heartwarming family moments! I was here for it all! Nora and Cole are definitely not on friendly terms with each other. They have differing goals and can't see eye to eye. Enter Marigold Winters and her holiday magic. These two are not going to know what hits them. They think all is going to be well and this sweet unsuspecting woman is going to make one of them very happy with this Christmas toy and then BAM!!!! Toto (or rather Nora and Cole) we're not in Kansas (or Arizona) anymore! Hahahaha!
I just kept imagining Marigold Winters smiling sweetly, sipping her hot cocoa and shaking her head at these two. All while secretly knowing that they're going to figure it all out eventually and things will go much smoother if they just communicate and get over their disagreements. But of course, we as the readers, get to enjoy wit and banter while reading due to their not figuring it all out yet. *Smirks* Yep, it's pretty great.
And the best part is watching Nora and Cole grow closer and start understanding each other, building a friendship and truly caring about each other. Realizing that their own insecurities and struggles are similar. I loved watching them come to recognize the real importance of Christmas. It was truly magical and beautiful. I might have choked up a little at a couple scenes. Trust me when I saw you probably will too, and you'll love it.
This is not an insta-love story, or love at first sight either. It's a sweet enemies to friends and then building that relationship to more. The family connections and scenes were also some of my favorites! It made me think of how much I love holidays because of the time I have with family and wanting such strong connections to be strengthened in my own life!
I hope you find this to be a magical and sweet Christmas read. And be careful if you're drinking hot cocoa at the beginning of the book because you might find yourself laughing out loud at several moments! We don't want that hot cocoa to go flying!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
I just kept imagining Marigold Winters smiling sweetly, sipping her hot cocoa and shaking her head at these two. All while secretly knowing that they're going to figure it all out eventually and things will go much smoother if they just communicate and get over their disagreements. But of course, we as the readers, get to enjoy wit and banter while reading due to their not figuring it all out yet. *Smirks* Yep, it's pretty great.
And the best part is watching Nora and Cole grow closer and start understanding each other, building a friendship and truly caring about each other. Realizing that their own insecurities and struggles are similar. I loved watching them come to recognize the real importance of Christmas. It was truly magical and beautiful. I might have choked up a little at a couple scenes. Trust me when I saw you probably will too, and you'll love it.
This is not an insta-love story, or love at first sight either. It's a sweet enemies to friends and then building that relationship to more. The family connections and scenes were also some of my favorites! It made me think of how much I love holidays because of the time I have with family and wanting such strong connections to be strengthened in my own life!
I hope you find this to be a magical and sweet Christmas read. And be careful if you're drinking hot cocoa at the beginning of the book because you might find yourself laughing out loud at several moments! We don't want that hot cocoa to go flying!
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
November 24, 2025
Pure holiday magic!
Nora’s chaotic day takes a turn for the magical when she and the frustratingly charming Cole are zapped into a winter wonderland by the eccentric Marigold Winters, and the two Christmas cynics are forced to complete festive challenges together.
As they navigate holiday tasks, sparks begin to fly amid their bickering, and Nora discovers that the most inconvenient part of it all might be falling for the man she swore she hated.
What you'll love:
enemies to lovers
dual pov
novella length
Christmas magic
snowball fight
the play
forced proximity
Santa letters
rekindle Christmas spirit
sweet romance!
Oh my stars, this book was delightfully unique and fun! Nora and Cole, both Christmas cynics get a *literal* taste of Christmas magic, and their chaotic, crazy holiday adventures help them rediscover what makes the season truly special. From sledding to the play to the Christmas tree farm, I loved all their sweet, fun, and laugh out loud moments.
Watching Cole and Nora go from enemies to friends and then to something more had me giggling and swooning at the same time. Thank goodness for forced proximity, because when that spark lights between them, Marigold Winters has some competition for magic! Their chemistry, combined with all the holiday chaos and charm, made every snowball fight, every Santa letter, every argument completely irresistible!
This is a standalone holiday romance and the perfect length to give you a sweet escape during the busy holiday season. Grab a cup of your favorite hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fireplace, and let this adorable story sprinkle some magic into your holiday season!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: few mild swears, kisses only
Nora’s chaotic day takes a turn for the magical when she and the frustratingly charming Cole are zapped into a winter wonderland by the eccentric Marigold Winters, and the two Christmas cynics are forced to complete festive challenges together.
As they navigate holiday tasks, sparks begin to fly amid their bickering, and Nora discovers that the most inconvenient part of it all might be falling for the man she swore she hated.
What you'll love:
enemies to lovers
dual pov
novella length
Christmas magic
snowball fight
the play
forced proximity
Santa letters
rekindle Christmas spirit
sweet romance!
Oh my stars, this book was delightfully unique and fun! Nora and Cole, both Christmas cynics get a *literal* taste of Christmas magic, and their chaotic, crazy holiday adventures help them rediscover what makes the season truly special. From sledding to the play to the Christmas tree farm, I loved all their sweet, fun, and laugh out loud moments.
Watching Cole and Nora go from enemies to friends and then to something more had me giggling and swooning at the same time. Thank goodness for forced proximity, because when that spark lights between them, Marigold Winters has some competition for magic! Their chemistry, combined with all the holiday chaos and charm, made every snowball fight, every Santa letter, every argument completely irresistible!
This is a standalone holiday romance and the perfect length to give you a sweet escape during the busy holiday season. Grab a cup of your favorite hot cocoa, snuggle up by the fireplace, and let this adorable story sprinkle some magic into your holiday season!
I received a complimentary copy but a positive review was not required.
CW: few mild swears, kisses only
December 5, 2025
5 Stars.
🎄 The vibes:
- Wacky scenarios induced by Christmas magic
- Magical realism
- Unique plot
- Quick, short read
- Closed door
🎄 My thoughts:
This was so much fun. When Cole interferes with Nora’s work project, they become immediate rivals. When they both coincidentally show up to a super festive house to purchase a rare collectible for Christmas, the very magical home owner decides Cole and Nora are seriously lacking holiday cheer and forces them into magical holiday scenarios that they must complete together if they ever want to get out of the magical loop.
🎄 This story is wacky and chaotic. Sometimes this vibe works for me and other times it really doesn’t. (Which I know is not super helpful to y’all) BUT this one really worked for me. I thought it was so fun. The way that the Christmas magic caused all these wacky situations was creative and kept the plot moving. It really opened the door for outlandish situations to work for me.
🎄 The story was unique and a true joy. It was a quick read which makes it the perfect Christmas read during a busy season.
🎄 The dynamic between Cole and Nora reminded me so much of my husband and me. She’s the go-getter planner who takes things a little bit too seriously, and he’s just so charming and kind-hearted.
🎄 Also - there’s a scene involving flocking a tree that made me laugh out loud 🤣. Normally comedic moments in books make me cringe but the humor in this book landed for me.
🎄 As I was reading this, I felt like this would make the perfect advent book- to read one magical scene/setting everyday during the week of Christmas.
🎥 If you have seen A Very Jonas Christmas Movie and enjoyed that type of holiday chaos mixed with magical scenarios- I think you’ll enjoy the vibes of this one.
Note- closed door
🎄 The vibes:
- Wacky scenarios induced by Christmas magic
- Magical realism
- Unique plot
- Quick, short read
- Closed door
🎄 My thoughts:
This was so much fun. When Cole interferes with Nora’s work project, they become immediate rivals. When they both coincidentally show up to a super festive house to purchase a rare collectible for Christmas, the very magical home owner decides Cole and Nora are seriously lacking holiday cheer and forces them into magical holiday scenarios that they must complete together if they ever want to get out of the magical loop.
🎄 This story is wacky and chaotic. Sometimes this vibe works for me and other times it really doesn’t. (Which I know is not super helpful to y’all) BUT this one really worked for me. I thought it was so fun. The way that the Christmas magic caused all these wacky situations was creative and kept the plot moving. It really opened the door for outlandish situations to work for me.
🎄 The story was unique and a true joy. It was a quick read which makes it the perfect Christmas read during a busy season.
🎄 The dynamic between Cole and Nora reminded me so much of my husband and me. She’s the go-getter planner who takes things a little bit too seriously, and he’s just so charming and kind-hearted.
🎄 Also - there’s a scene involving flocking a tree that made me laugh out loud 🤣. Normally comedic moments in books make me cringe but the humor in this book landed for me.
🎄 As I was reading this, I felt like this would make the perfect advent book- to read one magical scene/setting everyday during the week of Christmas.
🎥 If you have seen A Very Jonas Christmas Movie and enjoyed that type of holiday chaos mixed with magical scenarios- I think you’ll enjoy the vibes of this one.
Note- closed door
January 11, 2026
Amusement carried me through this story more than emotional investment, which honestly felt about right for what it was trying to be. The premise leaned hard into holiday chaos, throwing two rivals into a magically inconvenient situation that forced them to work together. The tone stayed playful and absurd, leaning into over the top Christmas spirit and whimsical interference. Themes of second chances, teamwork, and rediscovering joy were clearly at the centre, even if they were delivered with a heavy dose of silliness.
The storytelling moved quickly, which worked well for a shorter holiday read. Pacing kept things lively, but it also meant character development felt rushed and shallow. The structure relied heavily on a series of magical tasks, which were fun in theory but repetitive in execution. Dialogue was snappy and occasionally funny, though the constant bickering became tiring rather than charming after a while. Emotionally, it never quite shifted from entertaining to meaningful, and the connection between the leads felt more assumed than earned.
What ultimately held this back for me was the lack of maturity in the characters. While enemies to lovers was clearly the goal, the behaviour at the start made it difficult to believe the romantic payoff by the end. The tropes were familiar and very Hallmark inspired, from forced proximity to magical Christmas lessons, and while they created an enjoyable journey, they did not fully stick the landing. This was a light, quirky holiday read that delivered fun moments and festive vibes, but it fell short of being genuinely satisfying for me.
Read more here: https://annietheinkdrinker.wordpress....
The storytelling moved quickly, which worked well for a shorter holiday read. Pacing kept things lively, but it also meant character development felt rushed and shallow. The structure relied heavily on a series of magical tasks, which were fun in theory but repetitive in execution. Dialogue was snappy and occasionally funny, though the constant bickering became tiring rather than charming after a while. Emotionally, it never quite shifted from entertaining to meaningful, and the connection between the leads felt more assumed than earned.
What ultimately held this back for me was the lack of maturity in the characters. While enemies to lovers was clearly the goal, the behaviour at the start made it difficult to believe the romantic payoff by the end. The tropes were familiar and very Hallmark inspired, from forced proximity to magical Christmas lessons, and while they created an enjoyable journey, they did not fully stick the landing. This was a light, quirky holiday read that delivered fun moments and festive vibes, but it fell short of being genuinely satisfying for me.
Read more here: https://annietheinkdrinker.wordpress....
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