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Wrapped up in candy cane kisses
Dear Jack,
It started with a text, a mortifying accidental plea to be rescued from a disastrous date, sent to the one man I shouldn’t want: you. My best friend's dad, my grumpy, gorgeous boss.
Every day after that became torture of the sweet kind with stolen glances, accidental brushes of our fingers...and the way you’d growl my name like a warning and prayer all at once, it pulled me deeper into the alluring whirlpool we created.
We drew a line years ago-thick and unbreakable...but then we spent every waking moment since daring each other to cross the line without thinking of the consequences.
And then, like fate had a plan, my apartment flooded and I was in your intoxicating presence more than ever. You saw the scars I hid from the world and showed me love could heal even the brokest hearts. You showed me what it was like to be loved, and to love.
Love has no limits-not age, time, or even terrified pieces of a girl who once believed she’d spend every Christmas alone. But you proved them wrong. You proved that love is bigger than fear. And I'll spent every December for the rest of my life proving it right back to you.
With love,
Noelle xox
It started with a text, a mortifying accidental plea to be rescued from a disastrous date, sent to the one man I shouldn’t want: you. My best friend's dad, my grumpy, gorgeous boss.
Every day after that became torture of the sweet kind with stolen glances, accidental brushes of our fingers...and the way you’d growl my name like a warning and prayer all at once, it pulled me deeper into the alluring whirlpool we created.
We drew a line years ago-thick and unbreakable...but then we spent every waking moment since daring each other to cross the line without thinking of the consequences.
And then, like fate had a plan, my apartment flooded and I was in your intoxicating presence more than ever. You saw the scars I hid from the world and showed me love could heal even the brokest hearts. You showed me what it was like to be loved, and to love.
Love has no limits-not age, time, or even terrified pieces of a girl who once believed she’d spend every Christmas alone. But you proved them wrong. You proved that love is bigger than fear. And I'll spent every December for the rest of my life proving it right back to you.
With love,
Noelle xox
180 pages, ebook
Published December 14, 2025
About the author
Simone White
5 books29 followersSimone is a British Romance author from Surrey, UK.
When Simone isn’t writing and creating a million book scenarios in her mind, she can be found either spending time with her daughter or reading.
When Simone isn’t writing and creating a million book scenarios in her mind, she can be found either spending time with her daughter or reading.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 103 reviews
December 10, 2025
I freaking loved this story, I have read it so fast, because I could not put it down.
Go read it for yourself, it is amazing ❤️
Go read it for yourself, it is amazing ❤️
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December 6, 2025If you want to crank up the heat this holiday season, run—don’t walk—and add Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses to your wishlist ASAP! 🌶️ This book is festive, flirty, and downright fun. Jack and Noelle have chemistry so strong it could melt a snowman in under five seconds. Their banter? Adorable. Their tension? Delicious. Their spice? Absolutely chef’s kiss. This is the kind of holiday romance that wraps you up like a cozy blanket and then promptly sets that blanket on fire—in the best way. A must-read for anyone who loves their Christmas stories with a little extra sizzle 🔥
December 31, 2025
I just finished Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses by Simone White and it was such a fun, spicy little novella. A perfect quick read before Christmas.
The banter was spicy, the spice was spicing, and overall it was just a really good time. It gave best friend’s dad, age gap, workplace romance vibes, and I honestly couldn’t put it down once I started.
If you’re looking for a quick, festive, spicy read that’s not trying to be too deep, I definitely recommend this one.
The banter was spicy, the spice was spicing, and overall it was just a really good time. It gave best friend’s dad, age gap, workplace romance vibes, and I honestly couldn’t put it down once I started.
If you’re looking for a quick, festive, spicy read that’s not trying to be too deep, I definitely recommend this one.
January 1, 2026
Overall, this was an okay book. I liked the characters, and thought their relationship was cute, when they weren't having sex but actually acting like a relationship. It gets 3 stars because while I'm used to eroticas and love reading sex, this sex just felt completely redundant. Other than the positions, there was nothing different about it. The dirty talk was the same, the begging, it was just rinse and repeat, which made them boring to read and made me skim a lot of them.
December 26, 2025
I loved this story! I received a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review and I’m so glad I read this! Jack and Noelle. What a sweet & spicy feel good story! I read it in one sitting!
December 8, 2025
I received this book in exchange for an honest review…
I loved Jack & Noelle — they were just perfect together! The chemistry, the banter, the sex.. all so good!
I want a Jack in my life!!
Highly recommend!
I loved Jack & Noelle — they were just perfect together! The chemistry, the banter, the sex.. all so good!
I want a Jack in my life!!
Highly recommend!
December 8, 2025
Wrapped Up In Candy Cane Kisses by Simone White is a spicy novella that is perfect if you are looking to heat up your holiday reads. It is the first book I have read by Simone and was offered to me as an ARC by the author. I would love to read more about Jack and Noelle in the future. An age gap story with a Christmas setting –say less. I will read it quick, fast, and in a hurry!
Honestly, the banter and tension between Jack and Noelle was top tier. Feelings between the two were so palpable from the very start of this story. Jack has been attracted to Noelle for years, but his hang up is the fact that he is the father of her best friend. Add in that she works for him and everything ignites. There were a few times I thought my kindle might start smoking because of Jack and his mouth. Noelle isn’t hung up on that detail as much as him. However, she never crossed that invisible line with Jack even though she wanted to jump over it countless times over the years. It did not take much convincing once the daughter/best friend took matters into her own hands.
There are candy canes involved in this novella and who knew that delicious holiday treat could be so hot! This is the perfect way to kick off the holiday TBR. Simone, please give us another serving of these forbidden lovers. I could see this turning into a collection of different holiday novellas with Noelle and Jack. I was a little sad when it was all over. I will just have to revisit again this time next year!
Honestly, the banter and tension between Jack and Noelle was top tier. Feelings between the two were so palpable from the very start of this story. Jack has been attracted to Noelle for years, but his hang up is the fact that he is the father of her best friend. Add in that she works for him and everything ignites. There were a few times I thought my kindle might start smoking because of Jack and his mouth. Noelle isn’t hung up on that detail as much as him. However, she never crossed that invisible line with Jack even though she wanted to jump over it countless times over the years. It did not take much convincing once the daughter/best friend took matters into her own hands.
There are candy canes involved in this novella and who knew that delicious holiday treat could be so hot! This is the perfect way to kick off the holiday TBR. Simone, please give us another serving of these forbidden lovers. I could see this turning into a collection of different holiday novellas with Noelle and Jack. I was a little sad when it was all over. I will just have to revisit again this time next year!
December 16, 2025
his story follows Noelle and Jack in a best friend’s dad, office romance. She’s his PA and has been for four years and both have been yearning for each other but haven’t acted on it.
They have a moment of making out in his office when he’s upset about her flirting with an intern. Then immediately says it’s a mistake. She’s rightfully hurt by this and it happens again too. Same deal.
This year has been different thought! When Noelle’s apartment floods and Jack sees where she lives, he becomes possessive and obsessive. He takes her to his place and she decorates it on her first night there?
This is a cute story, but feels like it’s lacking on pacing. Everything is very rushed. When he said it was a mistake, he jumped back in like 2 days later. Totally get that it’s shorter, but could have had so much more yearning and Noelle’s feelings around Jack brushing her off could have been deeper. They “fell in love” in like a week too.
I also wish we got more of a picture of Noelle’s childhood and could connect to her poor upbringing too. It felt like a passing point, when it could have been a lot deeper.
The last 50% of the book was just sex and more sex. And kind of difficult to get through.
Overall, the book felt very surface level and focused mainly on the smut. The daughter/best friend was 10000% okay with this, which seems unrealistic, but ok.
If you’re looking for a book that is mostly smut and limited plot, this may be for you!
They have a moment of making out in his office when he’s upset about her flirting with an intern. Then immediately says it’s a mistake. She’s rightfully hurt by this and it happens again too. Same deal.
This year has been different thought! When Noelle’s apartment floods and Jack sees where she lives, he becomes possessive and obsessive. He takes her to his place and she decorates it on her first night there?
This is a cute story, but feels like it’s lacking on pacing. Everything is very rushed. When he said it was a mistake, he jumped back in like 2 days later. Totally get that it’s shorter, but could have had so much more yearning and Noelle’s feelings around Jack brushing her off could have been deeper. They “fell in love” in like a week too.
I also wish we got more of a picture of Noelle’s childhood and could connect to her poor upbringing too. It felt like a passing point, when it could have been a lot deeper.
The last 50% of the book was just sex and more sex. And kind of difficult to get through.
Overall, the book felt very surface level and focused mainly on the smut. The daughter/best friend was 10000% okay with this, which seems unrealistic, but ok.
If you’re looking for a book that is mostly smut and limited plot, this may be for you!
December 15, 2025
Spicy, Christmassy, and Seriously Fun!
I went looking for a spicy, age gap, holiday romance, and honestly, this book was absolutely brilliant! It ticked every single box.
From the very first page you get comedy, spice and whitty banter... I was hooked. The dynamic between Jack and Noelle was incredible. Their chemistry was perfect.
And as for the spice? Zero complaints there. It really is that 90% smut, 10% plot ratio, which I happily signed up for. Plus, I do love a HEA, and the ending was tied up with a cute little bow, giving me all the fuzzy feels I needed 🥰
My ONE issue, which keeps it at a 3.5 instead of a 4... is purely down to the nickname. Jack's relentless use of ‘Trouble’ for Noelle was completely overused and honestly got right on my nerves by the end. But, I was genuinely gutted when it was over! I’m praying this is book one in a new series, because I seriously need more of them. Maybe one about Amy? Or Peter? Either way, I need more of Jack & Noelle!!
If you’re building your Christmas TBR, you have to throw this on there. It’ll add the perfect amount of heat 🌶 and it was a fun & easy read too!
Thank you so much to Simone White for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. My opinions are my own.
I went looking for a spicy, age gap, holiday romance, and honestly, this book was absolutely brilliant! It ticked every single box.
From the very first page you get comedy, spice and whitty banter... I was hooked. The dynamic between Jack and Noelle was incredible. Their chemistry was perfect.
And as for the spice? Zero complaints there. It really is that 90% smut, 10% plot ratio, which I happily signed up for. Plus, I do love a HEA, and the ending was tied up with a cute little bow, giving me all the fuzzy feels I needed 🥰
My ONE issue, which keeps it at a 3.5 instead of a 4... is purely down to the nickname. Jack's relentless use of ‘Trouble’ for Noelle was completely overused and honestly got right on my nerves by the end. But, I was genuinely gutted when it was over! I’m praying this is book one in a new series, because I seriously need more of them. Maybe one about Amy? Or Peter? Either way, I need more of Jack & Noelle!!
If you’re building your Christmas TBR, you have to throw this on there. It’ll add the perfect amount of heat 🌶 and it was a fun & easy read too!
Thank you so much to Simone White for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. My opinions are my own.
May 8, 2026
Pure christmas magic
Pure christmas magic like i'm not even kidding. It starts with a mortifying accidental text, Noelle sends an SOS to her boss instead of her best friend and the boss is her best friend's dad, Jack. the grumpy, gorgeous totes off limits one.
The chemistry is insane like melt a snowman in five secs kind of heat. The banter is top tier,and the tension is so thick you could cut it with a candy cane. speaking of candy canes i will never look at them the same way again🔥
it's the perfect combo of funny and spicy. Jack is this older, possessive grump and Noelle is fiery and doesn't take his crap. their dynamic is sooo iconic he's been obsessed with her for four years and she's had a massive crush on him. its just a matter of time before they cross that line.
My only complaint? it wasn't long enough i need more of them. like, a whole series. i'm still thinking about their future as if they're real people off somewhere living their best xmas life.
if you wanna heat up your holiday reads at the end of this year, this is it. 10/10 will be revisiting this coming december.
🎅 best friend's dad
📅 age gap
🏢 workplace romance
🌶️ spicy holiday
🍬 creative use of candy canes
🎄 christmas setting
😮💨 close proximity
💖 forced proximity
Pure christmas magic like i'm not even kidding. It starts with a mortifying accidental text, Noelle sends an SOS to her boss instead of her best friend and the boss is her best friend's dad, Jack. the grumpy, gorgeous totes off limits one.
The chemistry is insane like melt a snowman in five secs kind of heat. The banter is top tier,and the tension is so thick you could cut it with a candy cane. speaking of candy canes i will never look at them the same way again🔥
it's the perfect combo of funny and spicy. Jack is this older, possessive grump and Noelle is fiery and doesn't take his crap. their dynamic is sooo iconic he's been obsessed with her for four years and she's had a massive crush on him. its just a matter of time before they cross that line.
My only complaint? it wasn't long enough i need more of them. like, a whole series. i'm still thinking about their future as if they're real people off somewhere living their best xmas life.
if you wanna heat up your holiday reads at the end of this year, this is it. 10/10 will be revisiting this coming december.
🎅 best friend's dad
📅 age gap
🏢 workplace romance
🌶️ spicy holiday
🍬 creative use of candy canes
🎄 christmas setting
😮💨 close proximity
💖 forced proximity
December 11, 2025
Jack and Noelle’s story is the kind of holiday romance that sneaks under your skin and refuses to let go. On paper, it’s all wrong, he’s her boss, and he’s her best friend’s dad, decades older. But Simone White spins that taboo into something tender, swoony, and surprisingly healing.
Noelle is the kind of heroine you root for: witty, vulnerable, and just a little reckless with her heart. Jack, meanwhile, is the grumpy, guarded man who’s spent years keeping his emotions locked away. Watching him unravel under Noelle’s warmth was a sight to behold. Once he got over his reservations, things really heated up. The mouth on that man and things he does, had me swooning and blushing!
What makes Jack and Noelle’s romance so addictive is the sheer electricity between them. Every glance feels charged, every touch lingers longer than it should. Noelle knows exactly what she wants and she’s not shy about her attraction, nor about claiming her own happiness, even when the world might judge her for it. That confidence turns their forbidden tension into something magnetic: Jack’s restraint colliding with Noelle’s certainty, creating sparks that light up every page.
The forbidden dynamic adds delicious tension, up until we have everyone rooting for them and encouraging their happiness! Every glance feels like it carries the weight of rules broken, every kiss like a dare against the world. Yet beneath the spice and secrecy, there’s a genuine emotional core: two people learning that love doesn’t always arrive in the “acceptable” package, but it can still be the right one.
Simone White delivers festive romance with a forbidden edge, and I devoured every page. If you love holiday romances that mix cozy charm with a dash of scandal, Jack and Noelle’s story will leave you smiling, swooning, and in desperate need of your own candy cane! ;)
A huge thank you to Simone White for the early copy!
Noelle is the kind of heroine you root for: witty, vulnerable, and just a little reckless with her heart. Jack, meanwhile, is the grumpy, guarded man who’s spent years keeping his emotions locked away. Watching him unravel under Noelle’s warmth was a sight to behold. Once he got over his reservations, things really heated up. The mouth on that man and things he does, had me swooning and blushing!
What makes Jack and Noelle’s romance so addictive is the sheer electricity between them. Every glance feels charged, every touch lingers longer than it should. Noelle knows exactly what she wants and she’s not shy about her attraction, nor about claiming her own happiness, even when the world might judge her for it. That confidence turns their forbidden tension into something magnetic: Jack’s restraint colliding with Noelle’s certainty, creating sparks that light up every page.
The forbidden dynamic adds delicious tension, up until we have everyone rooting for them and encouraging their happiness! Every glance feels like it carries the weight of rules broken, every kiss like a dare against the world. Yet beneath the spice and secrecy, there’s a genuine emotional core: two people learning that love doesn’t always arrive in the “acceptable” package, but it can still be the right one.
Simone White delivers festive romance with a forbidden edge, and I devoured every page. If you love holiday romances that mix cozy charm with a dash of scandal, Jack and Noelle’s story will leave you smiling, swooning, and in desperate need of your own candy cane! ;)
A huge thank you to Simone White for the early copy!
December 7, 2025
Noelle has worked for Jack Cobalt for years now. She is his personal assistant, and is also his daughter’s best friend. She’s a headstrong girl, who puts up with nothing that doesn’t suit her. She grew up being in the foster system, so she’s had some rough holidays in the past and only wants to help others have special holidays.
Jack has appreciated Noelle and her assistance for the past few years, but he’s always kept his distance since Noelle and her daughter were friends. Especially since they work together and there is a 20 year age gap, he never wanted her to get the wrong idea. The two have always flirted back and forth, though, and Jack starts to think maybe the two could work out.
This is exactly what I am looking for in a holiday novella. I want a cute plot, high spice, and lots of chemistry between the two characters. Jack has some qualities like Scrooge, Noelle just wants everyone to have a wonderful holiday, as well as to be a brat to annoy Jack. The banter between Noelle and Jack was great and kept me pulled in. This was a super quick read, which is something I love for a holiday novella.
Thank you so much to Simone White for the ARC opportunity!
Jack has appreciated Noelle and her assistance for the past few years, but he’s always kept his distance since Noelle and her daughter were friends. Especially since they work together and there is a 20 year age gap, he never wanted her to get the wrong idea. The two have always flirted back and forth, though, and Jack starts to think maybe the two could work out.
This is exactly what I am looking for in a holiday novella. I want a cute plot, high spice, and lots of chemistry between the two characters. Jack has some qualities like Scrooge, Noelle just wants everyone to have a wonderful holiday, as well as to be a brat to annoy Jack. The banter between Noelle and Jack was great and kept me pulled in. This was a super quick read, which is something I love for a holiday novella.
Thank you so much to Simone White for the ARC opportunity!
December 8, 2025
Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses delivered exactly the spicy and funny holiday escape I was hoping for. The opening line had me cracking up, and the book maintained that bold humour throughout. Noelle and Jack make a fantastic pair—she’s young and fiery, he’s older and wonderfully grumpy. Their dynamic gives the story a lively spark from the very first page.
The pacing feels just right. The tension builds steadily through the first nine chapters, then the heat ramps up in a way that’s both satisfying and entertaining. The line “This man couldn’t find my clit if I handed him a flashlight and a map” told me immediately that I was in for a sharp, cheeky ride, and the rest of the novella maintains that same spirited tone.
The writing blends quirky humour with a warm holiday feel—the perfect combination if you want something heartwarming and spicy at the same time. The novella format works beautifully here; the arc feels complete and never rushed.
It’s clever, fun, and delightfully steamy. A great pick for the Christmas season, but also a solid choice anytime you want a quick and spicy romance that will make you grin
The pacing feels just right. The tension builds steadily through the first nine chapters, then the heat ramps up in a way that’s both satisfying and entertaining. The line “This man couldn’t find my clit if I handed him a flashlight and a map” told me immediately that I was in for a sharp, cheeky ride, and the rest of the novella maintains that same spirited tone.
The writing blends quirky humour with a warm holiday feel—the perfect combination if you want something heartwarming and spicy at the same time. The novella format works beautifully here; the arc feels complete and never rushed.
It’s clever, fun, and delightfully steamy. A great pick for the Christmas season, but also a solid choice anytime you want a quick and spicy romance that will make you grin
December 17, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
📚ARC review📚
This story was perfect story to get you into the holiday spirit. Noelle is amazing! She’s such a little spitfire I loved it. The way she was defiant in fun little ways towards Jack was hilarious. She was close to giving that man an aneurism so many times it was hilarious. Jack a grumpy CEO wanting something he shouldn’t want was perfect. These two were fighting attraction for so many years thinking the other wasn’t even remotely interested. I wanted To smack Jack atleast 3 times in the beginning but he sure made up for it quickly. Amy playing matchmaker was amazing! The chemistry between Noelle and Jack was so strong it was only a matter of time before these two caved. I love that Jack gave Noelle everything she was looking for in life. These two were amazing. This story was a hard one to put down. I wanted to see what was next for these two. They held me captive from the first accidental text message. This sweet but super spicy Christmas novella was great! If you enjoy workplace romance, boss/pa, best friends dad, forbidden and age gap this story is a good one to check out.
📚ARC review📚
This story was perfect story to get you into the holiday spirit. Noelle is amazing! She’s such a little spitfire I loved it. The way she was defiant in fun little ways towards Jack was hilarious. She was close to giving that man an aneurism so many times it was hilarious. Jack a grumpy CEO wanting something he shouldn’t want was perfect. These two were fighting attraction for so many years thinking the other wasn’t even remotely interested. I wanted To smack Jack atleast 3 times in the beginning but he sure made up for it quickly. Amy playing matchmaker was amazing! The chemistry between Noelle and Jack was so strong it was only a matter of time before these two caved. I love that Jack gave Noelle everything she was looking for in life. These two were amazing. This story was a hard one to put down. I wanted to see what was next for these two. They held me captive from the first accidental text message. This sweet but super spicy Christmas novella was great! If you enjoy workplace romance, boss/pa, best friends dad, forbidden and age gap this story is a good one to check out.
December 3, 2025
This book was pure Christmas magic. Jack and Noelle had me laughing, swooning, and getting mad at them in the best way. The spice was absolute perfection—especially the way certain… festive elements (looking at you, candy cane) were incorporated.
Their chemistry mixed with the cozy Christmas setting made this the perfect holiday love story. I fell completely in love with Jack and Noelle—the way they wanted each other, fought it, and then pushed each other’s buttons in all the right ways. Noelle not taking his crap and matching his energy? Jack eating it up? Iconic.
My only complaint? It wasn’t long enough, and now I’m craving more of Jack and Noelle and their future together.
You know an author has done their job flawlessly when you’re still thinking about the characters’ futures as if they’re real and living their lives somewhere off-page.
If you’re looking for a spicy, funny Christmas romance, I highly recommend this one. I’m so grateful the author gave me early access to read as an ARC!
Their chemistry mixed with the cozy Christmas setting made this the perfect holiday love story. I fell completely in love with Jack and Noelle—the way they wanted each other, fought it, and then pushed each other’s buttons in all the right ways. Noelle not taking his crap and matching his energy? Jack eating it up? Iconic.
My only complaint? It wasn’t long enough, and now I’m craving more of Jack and Noelle and their future together.
You know an author has done their job flawlessly when you’re still thinking about the characters’ futures as if they’re real and living their lives somewhere off-page.
If you’re looking for a spicy, funny Christmas romance, I highly recommend this one. I’m so grateful the author gave me early access to read as an ARC!
December 8, 2025
⭐️: 5
🌶️ : 4.5
A must read this holiday season, a spicy Christmas Novella with age gap, best friends dad and banter.
Jack is the billionaire owner of Cobalt enterprises also known as Scrooge. Noelle is his PA , his daughter’s best friend and 20 years his JR.
Noelle accidentally sends a SOS text to Jack meaning to send it to her best friend (Jacks daughter) saying her date needed help finding her clit 🤭 Jack takes that text and runs with it when he shows up to rescue Noelle, the one person he has been obsessed with for four years and shouldn’t be.
Noelle is so embarrassed but also giddy as she has the biggest crush Jack. This one text is what starts the spice between these two.
The banter between them is so fun, I loved the nicknames they have for eachother but also the love. I love how candy canes were incorporated and the chemistry is fire, I’m so glad I stumbled upon this author in a FB group.
Thank you @simonewhiteauthor for allowing me this opportunity to read this ARC. It’s hands down my favorite Christmas read this year!
🌶️ : 4.5
A must read this holiday season, a spicy Christmas Novella with age gap, best friends dad and banter.
Jack is the billionaire owner of Cobalt enterprises also known as Scrooge. Noelle is his PA , his daughter’s best friend and 20 years his JR.
Noelle accidentally sends a SOS text to Jack meaning to send it to her best friend (Jacks daughter) saying her date needed help finding her clit 🤭 Jack takes that text and runs with it when he shows up to rescue Noelle, the one person he has been obsessed with for four years and shouldn’t be.
Noelle is so embarrassed but also giddy as she has the biggest crush Jack. This one text is what starts the spice between these two.
The banter between them is so fun, I loved the nicknames they have for eachother but also the love. I love how candy canes were incorporated and the chemistry is fire, I’m so glad I stumbled upon this author in a FB group.
Thank you @simonewhiteauthor for allowing me this opportunity to read this ARC. It’s hands down my favorite Christmas read this year!
December 9, 2025
Wrapped up in candy cane kisses is a perfect spicy novella to heat up your Christmas holiday nights read. This book delivered just the right amount of spice, banter and fun quirky humor.
Jack and Noelle make the most swoon-worthy pair! She's fiery, young but brilliantly determined and he's this older grumpy but fiercely possessive man. He has this soft side and fell for her really early on and has tried to resist her for years. She's had it bad for him for years as well. Fate finally steps in and they get their chance and their perfection together.
I love me an age gap trope and this one delivered full stop! Mix that in with some close proximity and workplace romance, chef kiss. The chemistry, the build up and the heartwarming all around good feel just makes this book such an overall fantastic read. This book is centered around the Christmas holiday and really gets you in the spirit of things too!
Jack and Noelle make the most swoon-worthy pair! She's fiery, young but brilliantly determined and he's this older grumpy but fiercely possessive man. He has this soft side and fell for her really early on and has tried to resist her for years. She's had it bad for him for years as well. Fate finally steps in and they get their chance and their perfection together.
I love me an age gap trope and this one delivered full stop! Mix that in with some close proximity and workplace romance, chef kiss. The chemistry, the build up and the heartwarming all around good feel just makes this book such an overall fantastic read. This book is centered around the Christmas holiday and really gets you in the spirit of things too!
December 4, 2025
let me start by prefrencing how honored i am to be given a special preview of this book <3
"ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴘʀᴇᴛᴇɴᴅ ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ɪʟʟɪᴛᴇʀᴀᴛᴇ"
It wasn't a bad read, far from it. The first 30% I was smiling, and laughing, and all and all having a good time. After that, it started to feel like I was reading just to read. The structure was strong, and the characters and backstory were well-developed without feeling rushed. The intimacy translated well on the page.
However, as we reached about 70% it started to feel repetitive. There were several opportunities to wrap up the story while still keeping it satisfying for a novella.
"ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪɴ ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ-ꜱɪx ʏᴇᴀʀꜱ, ɪ ᴡᴀᴋᴇ ᴜᴘ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴄʜʀɪꜱᴛᴍᴀꜱ."
There were a few typos here and there, but nothing frequent or impactful enough to affect my rating.
"ᴘʟᴇᴀꜱᴇ ᴘʀᴇᴛᴇɴᴅ ʏᴏᴜ'ʀᴇ ɪʟʟɪᴛᴇʀᴀᴛᴇ"
It wasn't a bad read, far from it. The first 30% I was smiling, and laughing, and all and all having a good time. After that, it started to feel like I was reading just to read. The structure was strong, and the characters and backstory were well-developed without feeling rushed. The intimacy translated well on the page.
However, as we reached about 70% it started to feel repetitive. There were several opportunities to wrap up the story while still keeping it satisfying for a novella.
"ꜰᴏʀ ᴛʜᴇ ꜰɪʀꜱᴛ ᴛɪᴍᴇ ɪɴ ᴛᴡᴇɴᴛʏ-ꜱɪx ʏᴇᴀʀꜱ, ɪ ᴡᴀᴋᴇ ᴜᴘ ᴡᴀɴᴛɪɴɢ ᴄʜʀɪꜱᴛᴍᴀꜱ."
There were a few typos here and there, but nothing frequent or impactful enough to affect my rating.
December 9, 2025
I devoured this book in a single day, and yes, at 180 pages that’s doable, but it was genuinely that addictive that I didn't want to put it down. The age gap trope is one of my absolute favourites, and this story did not let me down. Despite its shorter length, Wrapped In Candy Cane Kisses packs in far more plot than most novellas I have read in the past. So many shorter books lean heavily on spice, but this one balances both beautifully, giving the FMC and MMC backstories that are explored just the right amount.
And trust me… the spice is spicing. Let’s just say there’s a certain candy cane moment that caught me completely off guard in the best possible way, I will never look at holiday treats the same again.
Overall, it’s a fun, well-written festive read that absolutely deserves a spot on your Christmas TBR.
And trust me… the spice is spicing. Let’s just say there’s a certain candy cane moment that caught me completely off guard in the best possible way, I will never look at holiday treats the same again.
Overall, it’s a fun, well-written festive read that absolutely deserves a spot on your Christmas TBR.
December 2, 2025
BETA/ARC REVIEW
These two are perfectly matched in all the best, freakiest ways—their chemistry is explosive and so damn hot.
Noelle has been harboring the world’s biggest crush on Jack—her best friend’s dad and her boss. She’s kept it buried, convinced it’ll never be returned… until the night he rescues her from a disastrous date. Growing up in the foster system left her believing she’s unlovable, but she’s also the one person—besides his daughter—who isn’t afraid to put Jack in his place.
Jack has had his own quiet crush on Noelle, the personal assistant who challenges him more than anyone. He tries to hide it… until he kisses her, and that single moment cracks open every bit of tension they’ve been pretending didn’t exist.
When Noelle’s house floods and she has to move in with him, the thread finally snaps.
Now Jack just has to prove to her that she is worth loving—and that what they have is worth every risk.
And let me be blunt: this book is 90% smut. Grab your vibrator, grab your partner, grab a towel—because you’re absolutely going to need them.
These two are perfectly matched in all the best, freakiest ways—their chemistry is explosive and so damn hot.
Noelle has been harboring the world’s biggest crush on Jack—her best friend’s dad and her boss. She’s kept it buried, convinced it’ll never be returned… until the night he rescues her from a disastrous date. Growing up in the foster system left her believing she’s unlovable, but she’s also the one person—besides his daughter—who isn’t afraid to put Jack in his place.
Jack has had his own quiet crush on Noelle, the personal assistant who challenges him more than anyone. He tries to hide it… until he kisses her, and that single moment cracks open every bit of tension they’ve been pretending didn’t exist.
When Noelle’s house floods and she has to move in with him, the thread finally snaps.
Now Jack just has to prove to her that she is worth loving—and that what they have is worth every risk.
And let me be blunt: this book is 90% smut. Grab your vibrator, grab your partner, grab a towel—because you’re absolutely going to need them.
December 6, 2025
Cute, spicy, age gap Christmas romance novella
Noelle has lusted after Jack her boss and best friends dad, since she started working for him 4 years ago. Jack has lusted after Noelle since the day he interviewed her. Neither will act on their feelings as they feel the age gap is too big/lines will become blurred.
One SOS text during a disastrous date sent to the wrong person and a flooded apartment force them together and it becomes harder to fight their feelings. After giving in to what they want, things get spicy in the bedroom…and the kitchen…and the hot tub..you get the idea.
I was laughing out loud after only the 3rd page and was invested in this journey to their HEA but feel this could have ended sooner than it did as it seemed to become repetitive in the end.
Noelle has lusted after Jack her boss and best friends dad, since she started working for him 4 years ago. Jack has lusted after Noelle since the day he interviewed her. Neither will act on their feelings as they feel the age gap is too big/lines will become blurred.
One SOS text during a disastrous date sent to the wrong person and a flooded apartment force them together and it becomes harder to fight their feelings. After giving in to what they want, things get spicy in the bedroom…and the kitchen…and the hot tub..you get the idea.
I was laughing out loud after only the 3rd page and was invested in this journey to their HEA but feel this could have ended sooner than it did as it seemed to become repetitive in the end.
December 6, 2025
Thank you for the opportunity to ARC read this book, my first by this author.
If you are looking for a spicy festive novella this is definitely the book for you. Noelle is 26 years old, and has had a crush on her best friend’s dad who is 20 years older, and who just so happens to be his personal assistant. Jack, the said best friend’s dad has also been smitten with Noelle since their first meeting, her interview!
Circumstances bring them together and well let’s just say I am not sure I will look at candy canes in the same way ever again 😂🔥
This novella included some of my favourite tropes so if you are looking for an age gap workplace romance, best friends dad, set at Christmas with lots of spice, the with one of Jacks sayings ‘your mine’ then you will enjoy this novella 💞💓
If you are looking for a spicy festive novella this is definitely the book for you. Noelle is 26 years old, and has had a crush on her best friend’s dad who is 20 years older, and who just so happens to be his personal assistant. Jack, the said best friend’s dad has also been smitten with Noelle since their first meeting, her interview!
Circumstances bring them together and well let’s just say I am not sure I will look at candy canes in the same way ever again 😂🔥
This novella included some of my favourite tropes so if you are looking for an age gap workplace romance, best friends dad, set at Christmas with lots of spice, the with one of Jacks sayings ‘your mine’ then you will enjoy this novella 💞💓
December 8, 2025
Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses was a VERY spicy Christmas novella that will make you wipe the sweat from your brow! This was the first book I read by Simone White, and it did not disappoint!
Noelle and Jack have this chemistry about them. Even in some unfortunate circumstances, Noelle is still able to bring light into Jack’s life. Sometimes you just need that extra little push from fate or your best friend. But did I forget to mention that Jack is Noelle’s best friend’s dad AND her boss??
I enjoyed this age gap, PA/boss, daddy vibes, best friend’s dad, Christmas romance! Such a cute and spicy novella to read this holiday season!
I received this ARC and willingly give my review.
Noelle and Jack have this chemistry about them. Even in some unfortunate circumstances, Noelle is still able to bring light into Jack’s life. Sometimes you just need that extra little push from fate or your best friend. But did I forget to mention that Jack is Noelle’s best friend’s dad AND her boss??
I enjoyed this age gap, PA/boss, daddy vibes, best friend’s dad, Christmas romance! Such a cute and spicy novella to read this holiday season!
I received this ARC and willingly give my review.
December 14, 2025
Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses is a spicy, festive novella that I devoured in one sitting. This was my first read by Simone White and it won’t be my last.
Noelle and Jack have been pining for each other for years, held back by an age gap, a boss/PA dynamic and the fact that Jack is her best friend’s dad. One wrong text and forced proximity finally push them together and the chemistry is undeniable.
Despite the short length, this story balances heart and heat well. The characters have depth, the spice is very much spicing (yes, including a candy cane) and everything wraps up with a festive HEA. This cute, spicy holiday read is a perfect for Christmas TBRs❤️🤍🩷
Thank you Simone White for a copy of *Wrapped up in candy cane kisses* in exchange for my honest review🩷
Noelle and Jack have been pining for each other for years, held back by an age gap, a boss/PA dynamic and the fact that Jack is her best friend’s dad. One wrong text and forced proximity finally push them together and the chemistry is undeniable.
Despite the short length, this story balances heart and heat well. The characters have depth, the spice is very much spicing (yes, including a candy cane) and everything wraps up with a festive HEA. This cute, spicy holiday read is a perfect for Christmas TBRs❤️🤍🩷
Thank you Simone White for a copy of *Wrapped up in candy cane kisses* in exchange for my honest review🩷
December 15, 2025
If you are looking to add a little Christmas spice to your TBR pile this holiday season, than this book is FOR YOU!! 🥵 Wrapped Up In Candy Cane Kisses is the perfect combination of hot office romance and the forbidden best friends dad.
The dynamic between these 2 in the beggining of the book was incredible. You have the sarcastic jabs and longing looks that mix into this hot angst that the reader can feel. Then you move on to the middle where the fun of sneaking around and getting caught makes you wonder what they will try next. What really got me though, was the heartwarming ending because who doesn't love a great love story worthy ending??
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book for those mature readers who are looking for a fast paced, spicy, holiday read!
The dynamic between these 2 in the beggining of the book was incredible. You have the sarcastic jabs and longing looks that mix into this hot angst that the reader can feel. Then you move on to the middle where the fun of sneaking around and getting caught makes you wonder what they will try next. What really got me though, was the heartwarming ending because who doesn't love a great love story worthy ending??
Overall, I would definitely recommend this book for those mature readers who are looking for a fast paced, spicy, holiday read!
December 3, 2025
📖 This is an ARC read. This was a solid 4-star book until about 70% in, then it started to feel repetitive. There were several opportunities to wrap up the story while still keeping it satisfying for a novella. The structure was strong, and the characters and backstory were well-developed without feeling rushed. The intimacy translated well on the page. However, the ending felt stretched out, almost as if it was lengthened just to add more pages. This story definitely has the potential to become a great 200+ page book, it just needs room to breathe. There were a few typos here and there, but nothing frequent or impactful enough to affect my rating.
December 3, 2025
ARC Reader
This was such a fun read! The chemistry between Noelle and Jack was so steamy with lots of angst. Their office banter was so fun and hilarious. Noelle had me laughing out loud with her sassy-take no sh!t antics. I absolutely loved her personality. The whole cookie table at the office Christmas party argument was hilarious. Jack is known as the a**hole boss but with Noelle, he's met his match, and he's so infatuated with her. He hids it so well till he can't take it any longer. Their steamy and I mean super spicy journey to each other was so hot!! It had me kicking my feet. There are a few spicy scenes that will stay with me. Loved this book!
This was such a fun read! The chemistry between Noelle and Jack was so steamy with lots of angst. Their office banter was so fun and hilarious. Noelle had me laughing out loud with her sassy-take no sh!t antics. I absolutely loved her personality. The whole cookie table at the office Christmas party argument was hilarious. Jack is known as the a**hole boss but with Noelle, he's met his match, and he's so infatuated with her. He hids it so well till he can't take it any longer. Their steamy and I mean super spicy journey to each other was so hot!! It had me kicking my feet. There are a few spicy scenes that will stay with me. Loved this book!
December 3, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/🌶️🌶️🌶️
Oh this was soo good!! It was a short, spicy and full of banter. Jack “The Scrooge” Cobalt is the CEO of Cobalt Enterprises, Noelle’s boss AND the father of Noelle’s best friend! Could this man get any more off limits?! Noelle may be Jack’s PA and his daughter’s best friend but that didn’t stop her from harbouring a crush on him since being hired. The chemistry between Jack and Noelle was intense and fiery and the heat radiated off the pages! It was everything I was hoping for and more.
Thank you to Simone for providing me with a copy of Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses. All opinions in this review are my own!
Oh this was soo good!! It was a short, spicy and full of banter. Jack “The Scrooge” Cobalt is the CEO of Cobalt Enterprises, Noelle’s boss AND the father of Noelle’s best friend! Could this man get any more off limits?! Noelle may be Jack’s PA and his daughter’s best friend but that didn’t stop her from harbouring a crush on him since being hired. The chemistry between Jack and Noelle was intense and fiery and the heat radiated off the pages! It was everything I was hoping for and more.
Thank you to Simone for providing me with a copy of Wrapped Up in Candy Cane Kisses. All opinions in this review are my own!
December 6, 2025
I was lucky to get to read this before it’s release date.
I didn’t want to put it down, every spare second I had I was reading this book.
I love the characters and their chemistry, the smut is incredible.
Perfect story line from beginning to end.
For me it was nice to kind of relate to Noelle growing up in similar circumstances and also finding the one who made me feel the way Jack makes her feel, to finally find someone who cherishes, adores and desires you.
Perfect Christmas setting and good use of a candy cane 😜
This is the first book I’ve read from Simone and I’ll now be reading anything else she has written.
I didn’t want to put it down, every spare second I had I was reading this book.
I love the characters and their chemistry, the smut is incredible.
Perfect story line from beginning to end.
For me it was nice to kind of relate to Noelle growing up in similar circumstances and also finding the one who made me feel the way Jack makes her feel, to finally find someone who cherishes, adores and desires you.
Perfect Christmas setting and good use of a candy cane 😜
This is the first book I’ve read from Simone and I’ll now be reading anything else she has written.
November 29, 2025
I had the chance to BETA read this beauty and let me tell you… Jack is filth and fire in the best of ways.
Noelle, she is a sassy, spicy FMC who refused to let Jack get away with his mixed signals. She calls him on his BS and pushes all his right buttons to make him break.
This novella is 90% spice and 10-ish% plot.
Jack is Noelle’s best friend’s dad, Noelle works for Jack and has been crushing on him for the last 4 years( same girl, same). A flood in her apartment and a meddling daughter bring Noelle and Jack under one roof.
The two of them try(kinda) to abstain from giving into their desired, but they is just now way.
Oh, did I mention that she makes him crawl to her…
This may be a novella, but it packs a spicy punch…
🎄Beat Friend’s Dad
❤️Boss/Assistant
🎄Age Gap(20years)
❤️Forced Proximity
🎄He Crawls to Her
Thank you Simone!
Noelle, she is a sassy, spicy FMC who refused to let Jack get away with his mixed signals. She calls him on his BS and pushes all his right buttons to make him break.
This novella is 90% spice and 10-ish% plot.
Jack is Noelle’s best friend’s dad, Noelle works for Jack and has been crushing on him for the last 4 years( same girl, same). A flood in her apartment and a meddling daughter bring Noelle and Jack under one roof.
The two of them try(kinda) to abstain from giving into their desired, but they is just now way.
Oh, did I mention that she makes him crawl to her…
This may be a novella, but it packs a spicy punch…
🎄Beat Friend’s Dad
❤️Boss/Assistant
🎄Age Gap(20years)
❤️Forced Proximity
🎄He Crawls to Her
Thank you Simone!
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