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Mississippi Smoke #9
Hell of a Christmas
A deep chuckle sent a bolt of pleasure through me. “Damn, you’re sweet. Lucky for you I’ve got a conscience and I’m gonna walk away.”
Wait, what? Walk away?
He reached out and took a lock of my hair, then twirled it around his finger before dropping it with a sigh.
“Why … why are you walking away?” I blurted, desperate to keep him here.
His eyes seemed to twinkle with something, but whether it was amusement or not, I couldn’t tell. There was a darkness there too. I’d seen it before. It felt a bit threatening, but then he’d smile, and it would vanish. All that was left was the clear blue.
“Because I don’t break pretty things,” he said before giving me one last look, then left me standing there, feeling as if he’d sucked every ounce of joy from my life.
Kash Savelle hadn’t broken me, he’d shattered my world. I was alone, lost, and clawing to make it day to day. I should hate him and not a day passed that I wished I could. Seeing him again was the last thing I needed. Not when I almost had some form of security. But like the devil himself, there he was… standing on the street watching me. Still as painfully beautiful as he had always been.
Betrayal had never been something I’d experienced until Cressida Beck stole my soul, then ripped it from my body. My obsession with her had caused me to lose the life I’d been raised in, my family. I was exiled to Alabama to live with that branch of the southern mafia. No longer trusted in Mississippi, until now. This year, I was getting to come home for Christmas. Seeing the girl who had ruined me wouldn’t break me this time. I wouldn’t lose it all for her again. I just had to keep a firm grip on my sanity and stop seeking her out like the animal inside me that hadn’t stopped craving her.
Wait, what? Walk away?
He reached out and took a lock of my hair, then twirled it around his finger before dropping it with a sigh.
“Why … why are you walking away?” I blurted, desperate to keep him here.
His eyes seemed to twinkle with something, but whether it was amusement or not, I couldn’t tell. There was a darkness there too. I’d seen it before. It felt a bit threatening, but then he’d smile, and it would vanish. All that was left was the clear blue.
“Because I don’t break pretty things,” he said before giving me one last look, then left me standing there, feeling as if he’d sucked every ounce of joy from my life.
Kash Savelle hadn’t broken me, he’d shattered my world. I was alone, lost, and clawing to make it day to day. I should hate him and not a day passed that I wished I could. Seeing him again was the last thing I needed. Not when I almost had some form of security. But like the devil himself, there he was… standing on the street watching me. Still as painfully beautiful as he had always been.
Betrayal had never been something I’d experienced until Cressida Beck stole my soul, then ripped it from my body. My obsession with her had caused me to lose the life I’d been raised in, my family. I was exiled to Alabama to live with that branch of the southern mafia. No longer trusted in Mississippi, until now. This year, I was getting to come home for Christmas. Seeing the girl who had ruined me wouldn’t break me this time. I wouldn’t lose it all for her again. I just had to keep a firm grip on my sanity and stop seeking her out like the animal inside me that hadn’t stopped craving her.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 24, 2025
53 people are currently reading
112 people want to read
About the author
Abbi Glines
121 books86.4k followersAbbi Glines is a #1 New York Times, USA Today, and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of the Rosemary Beach, Smoke, Sea Breeze, Vincent Boys, Field Party and Existence series. She never cooks unless baking during the Christmas holiday counts. She believes in ghosts and has a habit of asking people if their house is haunted before she goes in it. She drinks afternoon tea because she wants to be British but she now lives in New England and that's as close as it is going to get. When asked how many books she has written she has to stop and count on her fingers. When she’s not locked away writing, she is reading, watching Netflix and all the introverted stuff.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
You can connect with Abbi online in several different ways. She uses social media to procrastinate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
January 7, 2026
Hell of a Christmas by Abbi Glines is a satisfying addition to her Mississippi Smoke Series. I have to come clean - I am absolutely addicted to her books and Hell of a Christmas is what started it all. If you like Peaky Blinders and mobster / Mafia romance books, then you HAVE to check this out.
I appreciate the family trees and backstories provided at the front of the book, so any of her books can be read as a standalone. Abbi Glines has developed such an intricate mob family universe, which is one of the reasons I fell in love with it.
Southern Mafia member Kash Savelle is finally able to visit his home base for the holidays. He plans to give his ex Cressida Beck a vengeful visit after she broke his heart and soul years earlier. However, Cressida has never become free of her obsession with Kash, despite the ways he hurt her in the past. The politics, secrets, and reunions between Cressida and Kash are perfection!
I appreciate the family trees and backstories provided at the front of the book, so any of her books can be read as a standalone. Abbi Glines has developed such an intricate mob family universe, which is one of the reasons I fell in love with it.
Southern Mafia member Kash Savelle is finally able to visit his home base for the holidays. He plans to give his ex Cressida Beck a vengeful visit after she broke his heart and soul years earlier. However, Cressida has never become free of her obsession with Kash, despite the ways he hurt her in the past. The politics, secrets, and reunions between Cressida and Kash are perfection!
December 27, 2025
For being so short and face paced, this story had everything! Kash is just as psycho as the rest of the boys! I loved his obsession with Cressida. He couldn't be stopped!
December 29, 2025
This was a quick second-chance read with a bit of a “Santa” miracle.
We all know how famous the holidays are for “shedding a little light” on one’s path so they can see the way (yes, a roundabout reference to Rudolph)
This was high heat, with a bit of back and forth, all dotted with some crimson splatter
Don’t fret if you want more.
From what I understand, we will be spending more time with our resident psycho and his gal in the near future.
This was more of a glimpse of how their past was cleared up
"You're my soul, my obsession, and my home."
They were kids when it all went down
Now five years later
Cressida is still running
Kash is still angry and exiled
But fate has brought them full circle
Time to put the past to bed
We all do it.
Thinking we know what’s best for someone else.
Or that the choices we are making are for their protection
You would think we would have learned by now!
But no!
Sometimes it takes a miracle, or a family that is so deep in your business they have no qualms with underhanded tactics, to right the past
"She brought an address and a key to the only thing I ever wanted. "
Yeah, it was at this scene that I shed a couple of tears 😥
We all know how famous the holidays are for “shedding a little light” on one’s path so they can see the way (yes, a roundabout reference to Rudolph)
This was high heat, with a bit of back and forth, all dotted with some crimson splatter
Don’t fret if you want more.
From what I understand, we will be spending more time with our resident psycho and his gal in the near future.
This was more of a glimpse of how their past was cleared up
"You're my soul, my obsession, and my home."
They were kids when it all went down
Now five years later
Cressida is still running
Kash is still angry and exiled
But fate has brought them full circle
Time to put the past to bed
We all do it.
Thinking we know what’s best for someone else.
Or that the choices we are making are for their protection
You would think we would have learned by now!
But no!
Sometimes it takes a miracle, or a family that is so deep in your business they have no qualms with underhanded tactics, to right the past
"She brought an address and a key to the only thing I ever wanted. "
Yeah, it was at this scene that I shed a couple of tears 😥
December 25, 2025
oh Kash
What a dreamy kind of crazy! As many others would say they just keep getting better! I love the love at first sight trope!! Or I guess obsession at first sight!
What to expect;
Second chance romance
He is obsessed
She is sunshine
He is a golden retriever (but only for her)
Protective unalive anyone who hurts her
And so much more but I don’t want to give too much away! Oh the twist you like to throw in these stories Abbi!! I’m not sure any of these books have been less than 5 stars for me and this one I no different! I cried I laughed I felt all the emotions and that is what I look for in a read!
Bravo Abbi!
Who needs rest anyway!! I can’t believe you surprised us with this on Christmas Eve! Crazy girl! As my mom says “you can sleep when your…you know)
What a dreamy kind of crazy! As many others would say they just keep getting better! I love the love at first sight trope!! Or I guess obsession at first sight!
What to expect;
Second chance romance
He is obsessed
She is sunshine
He is a golden retriever (but only for her)
Protective unalive anyone who hurts her
And so much more but I don’t want to give too much away! Oh the twist you like to throw in these stories Abbi!! I’m not sure any of these books have been less than 5 stars for me and this one I no different! I cried I laughed I felt all the emotions and that is what I look for in a read!
Bravo Abbi!
Who needs rest anyway!! I can’t believe you surprised us with this on Christmas Eve! Crazy girl! As my mom says “you can sleep when your…you know)
December 28, 2025
A surprise release…just in time for Christmas!
I didn’t know what to expect but I loved this addition to the Mississippi Smoke crew! Kash…the brother that was sent away has been mentioned a few times in the series and we get a front row seat to his comeback. This book was emotional, angsty and hot! Special shout out to Santa - making everyone’s dreams come true! Really looking forward to Forge’s story and the continuation of the family!
I didn’t know what to expect but I loved this addition to the Mississippi Smoke crew! Kash…the brother that was sent away has been mentioned a few times in the series and we get a front row seat to his comeback. This book was emotional, angsty and hot! Special shout out to Santa - making everyone’s dreams come true! Really looking forward to Forge’s story and the continuation of the family!
December 25, 2025
Yes this book actually made me cry at the end, ugh - probably because I'm a mom of a son and I could see myself doing this to make him happy - but again that's what mom's do.... I can't wait for the next book
December 25, 2025
Gosh.... why couldn't this book be longer???? I needed more of Kash 😭😭😭 i love when I man loves his woman and mom deeply
December 30, 2025
totally loved this book
December 27, 2025
This was an emotional rollercoaster.
I lost it at the "Has Santa ever let you down?" scene.
I lost it at the "Has Santa ever let you down?" scene.
January 10, 2026
This book was amazing and is by far my favorite in the series. I absolutely loved Cressida and I really hope we see more of her. Also, Kash's mom is amazing and totally made me tear up.
December 26, 2025
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was wondering whose book Abbi was releasing on Christmas Eve, and not did she keep this one a surprise. Even as part of her arc team, I still had no clue whose book this would be until I got the blurb, the day before Christmas eve...Well done Abbi Glines, well done.
Tropes:
👢 Southern Mafia Romance
🎄 Holiday Novella
👢 Second Chance
🎄 Boy Obsessed/Possessive
👢 Boy Separated from Girl
🎄 Girl On the Run from Past
👢 Touch Her & ☠️
🎄 Unresolved Feelings
👢 Morally Grey Hero
🎄 Forbidden Love
👢 Stalker MMC
First I want to say for being such a short book, at only 26 chapters, there was no small amount of feelings in this book of all kinds. I could feel the pain the 2 main characters felt all through the page. Not only in their past and current relationship, but everything in between and current events happening with in the MMCs family.
This couple was put through the ringer all because they were so young to have such strong feelings for each other. Yet, being away from each other for 4 years, and the hurt they felt towards one another, (for reasons they both contributed too) didn't take away the sudden need, attraction and pain they both felt once their eyes connected again.
I remember from Ransom's book, him and Bane briefly touching on Kash Savelle's story and why he was sent to Alabama to live. Like I said brief as it was, I knew all the boys in the family wanted him back home, but his obsession for a girl got him sent to live there in the first place.
Kash became obsessed with a girl 2 years younger than him when he was a senior in high school. He tried to stay away from Cressida Beck, knowing she was to good for him. Yet, the more he tried, the more she drew him in. She was equally infatuated with him since the day she first laid eyes on him.
This book is written in the present and the past throughout it. We never really got the full story off Ransom's books, so in order to do so, this author wrote it throughout their present. Like a trip down memory lane for this couple.
One thing I don't get out of these big bad men from the south is that they are so quick to save a fellow man from doing wrong for their woman, then separating them like they did wrong. Yet, these men would go to bat for their women Just because they didn't find them at a young age like Kash, Ransom, Gage & even Thatcher. They haven't figured it out yet that none of their punishments have worked yet
Kash was 21 when he walked in on the wrong thing and didn't think to ask questions. He took the life of Cressida's adoptive brother, Pirate in the middle of the night. Now, did this brother deserve death, umm that is a matter of opinions, but to me, yes. But Kash thought the woman who held his heart done him wrong as well. He didn't stay and listen to what she had to say and by the time he did come around to get again, his brother Oz got to her and made her let him go for a better life away from her.
The sad truth is the past 4 years want better for either person. Kash had been living in Alabama with their family, and he was home sick and tired of not being trusted all because he fell for Cressida's act in believing he was the only one.
Poor Cressida, her life has been nothing but heartache, pain and recently on the run from her past love and her current family and obsession. She has had a rough past 4 years and no one to look after her now. She was close to being homeless and working in a greasy diner. Until one day a woman showed up and offered her a job sitting her great aunt.
They only thing was it was back in Madison, the place she wasn't supposed to return. But it had been 4 years and she knew Kash lived in Alabama now. She needed the money and place to stay to remain hidden from her stepmother's brother, Author.
Kash is back in town for the holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. His mom wanted him home for the holidays and it was approved by the boss. He wasn't expecting to see Cressida across the street from the restaurant he was in, though. That's all it took, one look, one conversation and he was back to stalking her again.
Kash was mad to because the men in his life were hiding things from him, like the fact that she was in town again. If he can't trust his own, who can he trust but himself. He needed to get to the bottom of why she wasn't living her happy life that she wanted. If only he had known
Back to the men in Kash's life. Bane is really crummy in all the books in the Mississippi Branch, even his own, but he redeemed himself in his book like he wasn't a POS villain. Wrong, because between him and Linc, the 2 men who have their HEA, they are sure intent on not letting the other men find theirs without interfering in the worst ways like forbidding them, or doing behind the scene sneaky moves that almost ruin everything for good.
For example in this book. Bane found out about Kash being around Cressida again and instead of talking to them, he up and moved her away from Kash to Ocala, FL where the big boss lives. Making poor Cressida think she is no good for Kash and that she disobeyed orders when they were the ones that moved her to his aunts house to "sit" her, but it was ultimately to keep an eye on her. Then blamed her when Kash found her through his tracking skills that the mafia provided him with.
This book touches on the sickness of Kash's mom and why she wanted him home for the holidays. It's a tough one and I figure it's going to be an even tougher part of this series in Forge's book up next, Up To No Good. I can't wait to his story comes out in January and for all the Savelle boys to get their HEA.
If you're looking for a great holiday novella with hot southern mafia men, emotions, suspense and a morally grey hero who will stop at nothing to make sure his woman is safe and obsessed over by only him, then you need to read this book!
Spice: 🌶🌶🌶
I was wondering whose book Abbi was releasing on Christmas Eve, and not did she keep this one a surprise. Even as part of her arc team, I still had no clue whose book this would be until I got the blurb, the day before Christmas eve...Well done Abbi Glines, well done.
Tropes:
👢 Southern Mafia Romance
🎄 Holiday Novella
👢 Second Chance
🎄 Boy Obsessed/Possessive
👢 Boy Separated from Girl
🎄 Girl On the Run from Past
👢 Touch Her & ☠️
🎄 Unresolved Feelings
👢 Morally Grey Hero
🎄 Forbidden Love
👢 Stalker MMC
First I want to say for being such a short book, at only 26 chapters, there was no small amount of feelings in this book of all kinds. I could feel the pain the 2 main characters felt all through the page. Not only in their past and current relationship, but everything in between and current events happening with in the MMCs family.
This couple was put through the ringer all because they were so young to have such strong feelings for each other. Yet, being away from each other for 4 years, and the hurt they felt towards one another, (for reasons they both contributed too) didn't take away the sudden need, attraction and pain they both felt once their eyes connected again.
I remember from Ransom's book, him and Bane briefly touching on Kash Savelle's story and why he was sent to Alabama to live. Like I said brief as it was, I knew all the boys in the family wanted him back home, but his obsession for a girl got him sent to live there in the first place.
Kash became obsessed with a girl 2 years younger than him when he was a senior in high school. He tried to stay away from Cressida Beck, knowing she was to good for him. Yet, the more he tried, the more she drew him in. She was equally infatuated with him since the day she first laid eyes on him.
This book is written in the present and the past throughout it. We never really got the full story off Ransom's books, so in order to do so, this author wrote it throughout their present. Like a trip down memory lane for this couple.
One thing I don't get out of these big bad men from the south is that they are so quick to save a fellow man from doing wrong for their woman, then separating them like they did wrong. Yet, these men would go to bat for their women Just because they didn't find them at a young age like Kash, Ransom, Gage & even Thatcher. They haven't figured it out yet that none of their punishments have worked yet
Kash was 21 when he walked in on the wrong thing and didn't think to ask questions. He took the life of Cressida's adoptive brother, Pirate in the middle of the night. Now, did this brother deserve death, umm that is a matter of opinions, but to me, yes. But Kash thought the woman who held his heart done him wrong as well. He didn't stay and listen to what she had to say and by the time he did come around to get again, his brother Oz got to her and made her let him go for a better life away from her.
The sad truth is the past 4 years want better for either person. Kash had been living in Alabama with their family, and he was home sick and tired of not being trusted all because he fell for Cressida's act in believing he was the only one.
Poor Cressida, her life has been nothing but heartache, pain and recently on the run from her past love and her current family and obsession. She has had a rough past 4 years and no one to look after her now. She was close to being homeless and working in a greasy diner. Until one day a woman showed up and offered her a job sitting her great aunt.
They only thing was it was back in Madison, the place she wasn't supposed to return. But it had been 4 years and she knew Kash lived in Alabama now. She needed the money and place to stay to remain hidden from her stepmother's brother, Author.
Kash is back in town for the holidays, Thanksgiving and Christmas. His mom wanted him home for the holidays and it was approved by the boss. He wasn't expecting to see Cressida across the street from the restaurant he was in, though. That's all it took, one look, one conversation and he was back to stalking her again.
Kash was mad to because the men in his life were hiding things from him, like the fact that she was in town again. If he can't trust his own, who can he trust but himself. He needed to get to the bottom of why she wasn't living her happy life that she wanted. If only he had known
Back to the men in Kash's life. Bane is really crummy in all the books in the Mississippi Branch, even his own, but he redeemed himself in his book like he wasn't a POS villain. Wrong, because between him and Linc, the 2 men who have their HEA, they are sure intent on not letting the other men find theirs without interfering in the worst ways like forbidding them, or doing behind the scene sneaky moves that almost ruin everything for good.
For example in this book. Bane found out about Kash being around Cressida again and instead of talking to them, he up and moved her away from Kash to Ocala, FL where the big boss lives. Making poor Cressida think she is no good for Kash and that she disobeyed orders when they were the ones that moved her to his aunts house to "sit" her, but it was ultimately to keep an eye on her. Then blamed her when Kash found her through his tracking skills that the mafia provided him with.
This book touches on the sickness of Kash's mom and why she wanted him home for the holidays. It's a tough one and I figure it's going to be an even tougher part of this series in Forge's book up next, Up To No Good. I can't wait to his story comes out in January and for all the Savelle boys to get their HEA.
If you're looking for a great holiday novella with hot southern mafia men, emotions, suspense and a morally grey hero who will stop at nothing to make sure his woman is safe and obsessed over by only him, then you need to read this book!
December 28, 2025
Abbi Glines really knows how to grab me by the throat and the heart at the same time. She’s one of the few authors who can make me drop every other book I’m reading, sit down, and disappear into her world until I’ve inhaled the last page. And this story reminded me exactly why.
Kash and Cressida were the kind of high school sweethearts who burned too hot, too fast, and then detonated in spectacular fashion. One betrayal, one night, and suddenly he’s exiled to Alabama and she’s shipped off to Arizona, both of them shattered in ways they didn’t have the language for at seventeen.
Fast‑forward four years, and Cressida is back in Madison, Mississippi, not as the ambitious girl she once was, but as a waitress in a greasy spoon, scraping together enough money to survive. She’s running from a home that stopped being safe a long time ago, and you feel that ache in your bones. Then a glamorous woman walks into the diner and offers her a lifeline—room, board, a salary, and a chance to breathe again. Of course she takes it. Who wouldn’t?
And then Kash sees her. One moment on the street, one look, and everything they buried comes roaring back. Nothing is said, but everything is felt. And that’s the thing about first loves that never healed — they don’t stay dead. They wait.
But Madison is still controlled by the Southern Mafia, and when an anonymous text hits her new phone telling her to stay away from Kash, Cressida realizes she’s not just living quietly… she’s being monitored. Tracked. Controlled. Again.
What follows is a tangle of midnight visits, half-truths, and the kind of emotional tension that makes you want to shake both of them. Kash breaks into her room, demanding answers. She gives him pieces, but not the whole truth — not yet. And when they finally fall into each other again, it’s raw, painful, and so full of history that you can feel the weight of every unsaid word. He calls it closure. She’s left alone on the patio, heart cracked open all over again.
Cressida’s journey is especially compelling. She’s strong in that quiet, resilient way that makes you root for her from page one. Kash is the morally gray, emotionally intense hero Glines writes so well — the kind who loves with his whole soul and doesn’t always know what to do with that much feeling.
And the chemistry? Off the charts. The kind that makes you pause, breathe, and then dive right back in.
By the end, you’re left with that signature Abbi Glines cocktail: angst, passion, loyalty, and a love that feels both hard‑won and deeply deserved. Abbi Glines is one of those authors who hijacks my entire life the moment I open one of her books. Her morally gray heroes are deliciously unhinged in the best way. Her heroines are strong, vulnerable, and fighting for their own survival. The angst and passion hit at the same intensity, and the emotional bonds she builds between her couples feel like lifelines.
Kash and Cressida were the kind of high school sweethearts who burned too hot, too fast, and then detonated in spectacular fashion. One betrayal, one night, and suddenly he’s exiled to Alabama and she’s shipped off to Arizona, both of them shattered in ways they didn’t have the language for at seventeen.
Fast‑forward four years, and Cressida is back in Madison, Mississippi, not as the ambitious girl she once was, but as a waitress in a greasy spoon, scraping together enough money to survive. She’s running from a home that stopped being safe a long time ago, and you feel that ache in your bones. Then a glamorous woman walks into the diner and offers her a lifeline—room, board, a salary, and a chance to breathe again. Of course she takes it. Who wouldn’t?
And then Kash sees her. One moment on the street, one look, and everything they buried comes roaring back. Nothing is said, but everything is felt. And that’s the thing about first loves that never healed — they don’t stay dead. They wait.
But Madison is still controlled by the Southern Mafia, and when an anonymous text hits her new phone telling her to stay away from Kash, Cressida realizes she’s not just living quietly… she’s being monitored. Tracked. Controlled. Again.
What follows is a tangle of midnight visits, half-truths, and the kind of emotional tension that makes you want to shake both of them. Kash breaks into her room, demanding answers. She gives him pieces, but not the whole truth — not yet. And when they finally fall into each other again, it’s raw, painful, and so full of history that you can feel the weight of every unsaid word. He calls it closure. She’s left alone on the patio, heart cracked open all over again.
Cressida’s journey is especially compelling. She’s strong in that quiet, resilient way that makes you root for her from page one. Kash is the morally gray, emotionally intense hero Glines writes so well — the kind who loves with his whole soul and doesn’t always know what to do with that much feeling.
And the chemistry? Off the charts. The kind that makes you pause, breathe, and then dive right back in.
By the end, you’re left with that signature Abbi Glines cocktail: angst, passion, loyalty, and a love that feels both hard‑won and deeply deserved. Abbi Glines is one of those authors who hijacks my entire life the moment I open one of her books. Her morally gray heroes are deliciously unhinged in the best way. Her heroines are strong, vulnerable, and fighting for their own survival. The angst and passion hit at the same intensity, and the emotional bonds she builds between her couples feel like lifelines.
December 30, 2025
What a treat Hell of a Christmas by author Abbi Glines was to wrap up this year’s reading. One more trip to Mississippi with the southern mafia. More time with the men carrying out the ruthless family business and discovering another one of those men has a surprisingly soft and gooey – and sometimes desperate – center.
Kash Savelle is in Mississippi, but only for the holidays. After a lapse in judgement and actions that jeopardized the family, he was exiled to the Alabama branch four years ago. He’s only been allowed home because it was his mother’s wish all her sons be home for Christmas. Along with that exile came betrayal by the woman he had loved since high school. A betrayal of the worst kind. That’s all behind him now, she’s history, even if he does think of her every single night. Life has to go on and it has to go on without her.
Cressida Beck is in Mississippi, too, working as a companion to an elderly woman. Cressida thinks this job came to her as random luck, but maybe she wasn’t so lucky. Maybe she just doesn’t realize what lengths the family will go to to protect one of their own. Kash is a part of her past, just a young girl’s crush, even if she does think of him every single night. Her life has to go on, too, and it has to go on without him.
Cressida is unaware of the family’s current involvement in her life, but she has other fears. Fears for her safety and possibly her life. After her mother died and her father remarried her stepmother’s brother became part of the picture and things became brutal and ugly. She escaped and has been on the run since. This new job may allow her to finally disappear enough to be safe. If only. If only there wasn’t so much more going on beneath the surface.
There is so much that both Kash and Cressida don’t know. But what they do know when they accidentally meet in Madison is that their youthful crush, and their brief love affair that ended so badly, have grown up and try as they might, they can’t deny the connection, the feeling of meant to be, of wanting forever.
Hell of a Christmas is full of suspense, danger, deception, reprisals and unimaginable acts of punishment as only Abbi Glines can write them. Once again she has expertly, superbly, perfectly balanced the excitement of life in the mafia and the family life and rules and orders that must not be betrayed with the warmth and wonder of lost love, found love and strength and determination. It was full of surprises, heartbreak, realization, understanding, with a totally satisfying ending. And a hint of what is to come next. I received an advance copy of Hell of a Christmas. I loved it and can’t wait for the next book from this riveting author. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
Kash Savelle is in Mississippi, but only for the holidays. After a lapse in judgement and actions that jeopardized the family, he was exiled to the Alabama branch four years ago. He’s only been allowed home because it was his mother’s wish all her sons be home for Christmas. Along with that exile came betrayal by the woman he had loved since high school. A betrayal of the worst kind. That’s all behind him now, she’s history, even if he does think of her every single night. Life has to go on and it has to go on without her.
Cressida Beck is in Mississippi, too, working as a companion to an elderly woman. Cressida thinks this job came to her as random luck, but maybe she wasn’t so lucky. Maybe she just doesn’t realize what lengths the family will go to to protect one of their own. Kash is a part of her past, just a young girl’s crush, even if she does think of him every single night. Her life has to go on, too, and it has to go on without him.
Cressida is unaware of the family’s current involvement in her life, but she has other fears. Fears for her safety and possibly her life. After her mother died and her father remarried her stepmother’s brother became part of the picture and things became brutal and ugly. She escaped and has been on the run since. This new job may allow her to finally disappear enough to be safe. If only. If only there wasn’t so much more going on beneath the surface.
There is so much that both Kash and Cressida don’t know. But what they do know when they accidentally meet in Madison is that their youthful crush, and their brief love affair that ended so badly, have grown up and try as they might, they can’t deny the connection, the feeling of meant to be, of wanting forever.
Hell of a Christmas is full of suspense, danger, deception, reprisals and unimaginable acts of punishment as only Abbi Glines can write them. Once again she has expertly, superbly, perfectly balanced the excitement of life in the mafia and the family life and rules and orders that must not be betrayed with the warmth and wonder of lost love, found love and strength and determination. It was full of surprises, heartbreak, realization, understanding, with a totally satisfying ending. And a hint of what is to come next. I received an advance copy of Hell of a Christmas. I loved it and can’t wait for the next book from this riveting author. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
December 29, 2025
Hell of a Christmas is a contemporary romance set during the holiday season, brimming with tension, passion, and emotional complexity. Abbi Glines crafts a story that explores love, obsession, and the irresistible pull of a connection that has left a lasting mark on both characters’ lives.
Kash Savelle once shattered Cressida Beck’s world, leaving her alone, heartbroken, and struggling to reclaim control of her life. Years later, Cressida returns to Alabama for Christmas, determined to maintain her independence and keep her emotions in check. But Kash—still magnetic, infuriating, and deeply alluring—reenters her life, reigniting a desire she thought she had mastered. Caught between temptation and self-preservation, Cressida must navigate the intense, undeniable attraction between them while guarding her heart against the pain of the past.
The romance between Kash and Cressida is electric and compelling. Their connection crackles with tension, longing, and unspoken emotions. Glines captures the slow-burning nature of their attraction beautifully, showing how shared history, unresolved feelings, and mutual desire create a magnetic pull neither can resist. Every encounter between them is layered with complexity—playful banter, heated exchanges, moments of vulnerability, and flashes of deep emotional intimacy—making their romance feel both intense and authentic.
The holiday setting enhances the romance, providing a cozy and atmospheric backdrop for their emotional journey. The snowy streets, festive gatherings, and family settings contrast with the inner turmoil of the characters, making their stolen moments of intimacy and connection all the more poignant.
Overall, Hell of a Christmas is a passionate, tension-filled holiday romance that immerses readers in the emotional journey of Kash and Cressida. The slow-burning chemistry, magnetic attraction, and layered emotional connection make this story a captivating read for fans of contemporary romance filled with desire, vulnerability, and second chances.
Kash Savelle once shattered Cressida Beck’s world, leaving her alone, heartbroken, and struggling to reclaim control of her life. Years later, Cressida returns to Alabama for Christmas, determined to maintain her independence and keep her emotions in check. But Kash—still magnetic, infuriating, and deeply alluring—reenters her life, reigniting a desire she thought she had mastered. Caught between temptation and self-preservation, Cressida must navigate the intense, undeniable attraction between them while guarding her heart against the pain of the past.
The romance between Kash and Cressida is electric and compelling. Their connection crackles with tension, longing, and unspoken emotions. Glines captures the slow-burning nature of their attraction beautifully, showing how shared history, unresolved feelings, and mutual desire create a magnetic pull neither can resist. Every encounter between them is layered with complexity—playful banter, heated exchanges, moments of vulnerability, and flashes of deep emotional intimacy—making their romance feel both intense and authentic.
The holiday setting enhances the romance, providing a cozy and atmospheric backdrop for their emotional journey. The snowy streets, festive gatherings, and family settings contrast with the inner turmoil of the characters, making their stolen moments of intimacy and connection all the more poignant.
Overall, Hell of a Christmas is a passionate, tension-filled holiday romance that immerses readers in the emotional journey of Kash and Cressida. The slow-burning chemistry, magnetic attraction, and layered emotional connection make this story a captivating read for fans of contemporary romance filled with desire, vulnerability, and second chances.
December 27, 2025
For such a short, fast-paced story, this book delivered everything. Kash is just as unhinged and dangerous as the rest of the boys, and I was completely obsessed with his obsession with Cressida. Once he set his sights on her, there was no stopping him.
This was one hell of a Christmas story, packed with intensity, emotion, and that signature delicious chaos Abbi always delivers. And finally, we got Kash Savelle and Cressida Beck’s story, one I’ve been desperate to read.
Kash, with his steely blue eyes and dangerous aura, carries a darkness few ever truly see. Cressida saw it, and him, when others didn’t. One tragic misunderstanding, one man dead, and their lives shattered. The fallout led to Kash’s exile to Alabama, tearing them apart in the cruellest way.
Now, years later, Kash is allowed back home to Mississippi, only to come face-to-face with the woman who still owns his soul. Cressida is just as shocked—but cautious. She’s been through far more than Kash knows, and when he finds out, their reunion is explosive. With a little Christmas “intervention,” it becomes clear that not even the family’s wrath can keep them apart.
Kash Savelle lives firmly in morally gray shadows, yet somehow becomes devastatingly tender where Cressida is concerned. The moment he says, “I don’t break pretty things”—excuse me while my heart actually shatters. That single line perfectly sets the tone: dark, dangerous, obsessive, and painfully romantic.
Cressida is fragile yet strong, broken yet still standing. Their shared history is thick with betrayal, longing, and unfinished business, and you can feel the ache in every interaction. The way Kash watches her. Protects her. Calls her his songbird. I melted. He’s brutal to the world but impossibly soft for her—and I will never get tired of that trope.
Another absolute Abbi banger. I cannot wait for the next book!
This was one hell of a Christmas story, packed with intensity, emotion, and that signature delicious chaos Abbi always delivers. And finally, we got Kash Savelle and Cressida Beck’s story, one I’ve been desperate to read.
Kash, with his steely blue eyes and dangerous aura, carries a darkness few ever truly see. Cressida saw it, and him, when others didn’t. One tragic misunderstanding, one man dead, and their lives shattered. The fallout led to Kash’s exile to Alabama, tearing them apart in the cruellest way.
Now, years later, Kash is allowed back home to Mississippi, only to come face-to-face with the woman who still owns his soul. Cressida is just as shocked—but cautious. She’s been through far more than Kash knows, and when he finds out, their reunion is explosive. With a little Christmas “intervention,” it becomes clear that not even the family’s wrath can keep them apart.
Kash Savelle lives firmly in morally gray shadows, yet somehow becomes devastatingly tender where Cressida is concerned. The moment he says, “I don’t break pretty things”—excuse me while my heart actually shatters. That single line perfectly sets the tone: dark, dangerous, obsessive, and painfully romantic.
Cressida is fragile yet strong, broken yet still standing. Their shared history is thick with betrayal, longing, and unfinished business, and you can feel the ache in every interaction. The way Kash watches her. Protects her. Calls her his songbird. I melted. He’s brutal to the world but impossibly soft for her—and I will never get tired of that trope.
Another absolute Abbi banger. I cannot wait for the next book!
December 27, 2025
I went into this expecting a quick, spicy little Christmas read and instead Abbi Glines wrecked me emotionally in the best way. This book is short, but WOW does it punch hard.
Kash Savelle is the kind of man who lives in the morally gray shadows and somehow still feels devastatingly tender when it comes to the one woman who owns his soul. The moment he says “I don’t break pretty things”?? EXCUSE ME while my heart actually splinters. That line alone set the tone for the entire story—dark, dangerous, obsessive, and painfully romantic.
Cressida is fragile but strong, broken but still standing, and the history between her and Kash is thick with betrayal, longing, and unfinished business. You can feel the ache in every interaction. The way Kash watches her. Protects her. Calls her his songbird. I MELTED. He’s brutal to the world but soft where she’s concerned, and I will never get tired of that trope.
The angst? Delicious.
The tension? Suffocating.
The chemistry? OFF THE CHARTS.
There’s this constant push and pull—wanting each other, fearing each other, knowing they’re dangerous together but being completely unable to stay away. Add in the southern mafia backdrop, exile, obsession, and a Christmas setting that somehow makes everything feel sharper and more intense? Perfection.
This story left me craving MORE. More Kash. More Cressida. More of their twisted, emotional, soul-deep connection. Kash didn’t just protect her—he claimed her in the quiet, devastating ways that matter most.
I loved them. I loved their darkness. I loved the way love looked like survival for them.
And that ending?? I am feral waiting to see what’s next. 🎄🔥
Kash Savelle is the kind of man who lives in the morally gray shadows and somehow still feels devastatingly tender when it comes to the one woman who owns his soul. The moment he says “I don’t break pretty things”?? EXCUSE ME while my heart actually splinters. That line alone set the tone for the entire story—dark, dangerous, obsessive, and painfully romantic.
Cressida is fragile but strong, broken but still standing, and the history between her and Kash is thick with betrayal, longing, and unfinished business. You can feel the ache in every interaction. The way Kash watches her. Protects her. Calls her his songbird. I MELTED. He’s brutal to the world but soft where she’s concerned, and I will never get tired of that trope.
The angst? Delicious.
The tension? Suffocating.
The chemistry? OFF THE CHARTS.
There’s this constant push and pull—wanting each other, fearing each other, knowing they’re dangerous together but being completely unable to stay away. Add in the southern mafia backdrop, exile, obsession, and a Christmas setting that somehow makes everything feel sharper and more intense? Perfection.
This story left me craving MORE. More Kash. More Cressida. More of their twisted, emotional, soul-deep connection. Kash didn’t just protect her—he claimed her in the quiet, devastating ways that matter most.
I loved them. I loved their darkness. I loved the way love looked like survival for them.
And that ending?? I am feral waiting to see what’s next. 🎄🔥
December 30, 2025
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.
This is the story of Cressida and Kash. These two have a past. They were once everything to each other. Until it all fell apart. Now Kash is in Alabama and she is trying to build a life in Mississippi. She is on the run from some people in her life and she really is on misstep financially to being homeless. I loved her character so much. She is a good girl. A girl that has had a lot of things happen to her that no one knows about and never will if she has her way. Kash is being punished for something he did and has been in Alabama for a while. His mother wanted all her boys home for Christmas this year and he was able to come home a little before than so he is home longer. When he runs into a familiar face he is surprised and shocked. He has to know why she is in Alabama and where she is working. Cressida has found some luck when she is offered a job sitting with and doing errands for a lady that came into the cafe where she was working. Now she has a job she love and isn't so lonely anymore. What neither of them knows is that there lives are about to get flipped upside down. I loved this story. It will keep you on your toes. I loved the connection they have with each other. These are two people who have never stopped caring for each other. This is a great read, that you do not want to miss. I for one can't wait for the next book to come out.
This is the story of Cressida and Kash. These two have a past. They were once everything to each other. Until it all fell apart. Now Kash is in Alabama and she is trying to build a life in Mississippi. She is on the run from some people in her life and she really is on misstep financially to being homeless. I loved her character so much. She is a good girl. A girl that has had a lot of things happen to her that no one knows about and never will if she has her way. Kash is being punished for something he did and has been in Alabama for a while. His mother wanted all her boys home for Christmas this year and he was able to come home a little before than so he is home longer. When he runs into a familiar face he is surprised and shocked. He has to know why she is in Alabama and where she is working. Cressida has found some luck when she is offered a job sitting with and doing errands for a lady that came into the cafe where she was working. Now she has a job she love and isn't so lonely anymore. What neither of them knows is that there lives are about to get flipped upside down. I loved this story. It will keep you on your toes. I loved the connection they have with each other. These are two people who have never stopped caring for each other. This is a great read, that you do not want to miss. I for one can't wait for the next book to come out.
January 3, 2026
Hell of a Christmas is the ninth story in the Mississippi Smoke series. It is a great addition to a very addictive series. It is a short read but is packed full of emotions and suspense. This is Kash's story and I have been wanting to read his story for a while now.
Kash is temporary home in Mississippi to visit his family for the holidays. He had been sent to Alabama a while back by the family for some things he had done. When he was sent away he was also betrayed by the woman he had loved since they were in high school. He has moved on from her and tried to concentrate on his family.
Cressida is also back in Mississippi. She was working at a diner when she gets an unexpected job opportunity to care for an older lady. She now has a decent place to live since this is a live-in position. She has tried to stay safe from her family and lives away from them. Her plan is to gain enough money to move away.
Cressida is in town doing errands for her job when she sees Kash again. Kash is supposed to stay away from her but he wants to know what happened in their past. Why did she betray him? How has her life been for the years that have passed?
I loved Kash and Cressida's story. It is filled with emotions and suspense. There are twists you do not see coming. Another amazing story from this very talented author. I look forward to more.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
Kash is temporary home in Mississippi to visit his family for the holidays. He had been sent to Alabama a while back by the family for some things he had done. When he was sent away he was also betrayed by the woman he had loved since they were in high school. He has moved on from her and tried to concentrate on his family.
Cressida is also back in Mississippi. She was working at a diner when she gets an unexpected job opportunity to care for an older lady. She now has a decent place to live since this is a live-in position. She has tried to stay safe from her family and lives away from them. Her plan is to gain enough money to move away.
Cressida is in town doing errands for her job when she sees Kash again. Kash is supposed to stay away from her but he wants to know what happened in their past. Why did she betray him? How has her life been for the years that have passed?
I loved Kash and Cressida's story. It is filled with emotions and suspense. There are twists you do not see coming. Another amazing story from this very talented author. I look forward to more.
Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for an honest review.
December 28, 2025
Abbi hooks you in right from the start with Kash and Cressida's story and keeps you turning the pages until the very end. Cash is back in Mississippi for Christmas with the family after being exiled in Alabama. By chance, Cressida is back in Mississippi after escaping into hiding from her family. She thought she would be safe with Kash in Alabama. She has a job in a diner and a small apartment for a roof over her head. She cant believe her luck when at Thanksgiving, a woman gives her a job as a live-in carer for her elderly Aunt. Cressida cant believe her luck and snatches the opportunity to have a better roof over her head and earn more than she did at the diner. She cant believe she's fallen on her feet and she has a job she loves doing until the day she runs into Kash. Her feelings come rushing back, but she feels brushed off by Kash. Kash wants to rekindle what he had with Cressida before, but his family has other ideas.
I received an ARC for my voluntary, honest review on NN Book Blog. Abbi gives you all the feels with Kash and Cressida's story. Will they ever get their HEA, or will Kash's family rip them apart forever? If you love a second-chance romance with lots of angst, then you will love this book.
I received an ARC for my voluntary, honest review on NN Book Blog. Abbi gives you all the feels with Kash and Cressida's story. Will they ever get their HEA, or will Kash's family rip them apart forever? If you love a second-chance romance with lots of angst, then you will love this book.
December 30, 2025
We haven’t heard much about Kash only that he was sent to Alabama. This give you the reason why he was sent there. One thing in the family, they don’t do things unless its family approved. With the family seeing that Cressida betrayed Cash and how he acted around her they decided it best to move him away.
Kast thought that seeing Cressida again he could be strong. Surprised to find her working for his Aunt he knows that the family placed her there to ensure he couldn’t see her. Nothing will stop him seeing Cressida.
Kash thought that Cressida betrayed him all those years ago, when he finds out the truth nothing can stop him.
Cressida knew that seeing Kash the family wouldn’t be happy, she didn’t think they would move her across the country, they did give her everything she needed to make a new start.
Kash tries to keep up the appearance with Christmas coming for his family, but he misses Cressida and no way of contacting her, he knows once the family makes a decision it’s final. He knows about Santa, but it seems that when Santa makes a decision it’s final. Even the family can’t fight Santa. When Kash opens his gift, Santa reminds him that she’s never let him down. Now the only question is does Cressida feel the same way as he does.
Kast thought that seeing Cressida again he could be strong. Surprised to find her working for his Aunt he knows that the family placed her there to ensure he couldn’t see her. Nothing will stop him seeing Cressida.
Kash thought that Cressida betrayed him all those years ago, when he finds out the truth nothing can stop him.
Cressida knew that seeing Kash the family wouldn’t be happy, she didn’t think they would move her across the country, they did give her everything she needed to make a new start.
Kash tries to keep up the appearance with Christmas coming for his family, but he misses Cressida and no way of contacting her, he knows once the family makes a decision it’s final. He knows about Santa, but it seems that when Santa makes a decision it’s final. Even the family can’t fight Santa. When Kash opens his gift, Santa reminds him that she’s never let him down. Now the only question is does Cressida feel the same way as he does.
December 27, 2025
Kash & Cressida’s overdue HEA!
Kash and Cressida’s story was indeed a Christmas treat I couldn’t get enough of! I needed Kash’s story ever since I’ve read in the previous book about his “exile” to another state and another Mafia branch (in Alabama) due to him killing a guy he found in his girlfriend’s bed. I knew there was more into this story than meets the eye and boy was I right! I loved and felt for both Kash and Cressida. Two kindred spirits, souls meant to be together that had found each other at an early age but who had been torn apart and suffered individually for years due to external factors, misunderstandings and both some evil people from Cressida’s family and Kash’s overprotective Family who saw his obsession as catastrophic. I loved how fate (and a secret “Santa”) worked their magic in order to give them their well-deserved, overdue HEA. The “Santa” factor is a bittersweet arc in the plot – an arc that I am pretty sure will play fundamental role in Forge’s book (regarding his psyche and character development) , which is next and I can’t wait to put my hands on! 5 huge stars, sprinkled with Christmas gold dust from me!
Kash and Cressida’s story was indeed a Christmas treat I couldn’t get enough of! I needed Kash’s story ever since I’ve read in the previous book about his “exile” to another state and another Mafia branch (in Alabama) due to him killing a guy he found in his girlfriend’s bed. I knew there was more into this story than meets the eye and boy was I right! I loved and felt for both Kash and Cressida. Two kindred spirits, souls meant to be together that had found each other at an early age but who had been torn apart and suffered individually for years due to external factors, misunderstandings and both some evil people from Cressida’s family and Kash’s overprotective Family who saw his obsession as catastrophic. I loved how fate (and a secret “Santa”) worked their magic in order to give them their well-deserved, overdue HEA. The “Santa” factor is a bittersweet arc in the plot – an arc that I am pretty sure will play fundamental role in Forge’s book (regarding his psyche and character development) , which is next and I can’t wait to put my hands on! 5 huge stars, sprinkled with Christmas gold dust from me!
December 29, 2025
Southern Mafia bad boys and Christmas Miracles
As you know when one of the guys falls in love they will do anything to protect their girl…you know psycho crazy love!
Kash is no different. Kash meets Cressida in high school and falls head over heels. Cressida and her family seem to have it all together but as her relationship with Kash continues her step brother becomes more crazed and possessive!
Actions by Kash gets him booted from Mississippi and sent away to the Alabama family! A few years later he has returned home for Christmas and the feelings he has for Cressida has not gone away!
He is looking for closure but the toxic feelings he has will only create issues for the Family!
Kash wants to come back home but he also wants to understand why Cressida betrayed him!
A Christmas miracle is needed for the Savelle Family and Kash is determined to be on his best behavior!
Absolutely loved this Christmas story! It was so easy to sit down and get caught up in the Southern Mafia this holiday season!
As you know when one of the guys falls in love they will do anything to protect their girl…you know psycho crazy love!
Kash is no different. Kash meets Cressida in high school and falls head over heels. Cressida and her family seem to have it all together but as her relationship with Kash continues her step brother becomes more crazed and possessive!
Actions by Kash gets him booted from Mississippi and sent away to the Alabama family! A few years later he has returned home for Christmas and the feelings he has for Cressida has not gone away!
He is looking for closure but the toxic feelings he has will only create issues for the Family!
Kash wants to come back home but he also wants to understand why Cressida betrayed him!
A Christmas miracle is needed for the Savelle Family and Kash is determined to be on his best behavior!
Absolutely loved this Christmas story! It was so easy to sit down and get caught up in the Southern Mafia this holiday season!
January 11, 2026
This was such a beautiful read. After starting several books this week and leaving them unfinished, I knew Abby wouldn’t disappoint me—and she didn’t. I ended up reading this book in one sitting because it completely pulled me in from the very first page.
I also adore this author. She has never written a bad book, and her writing style resonates with me on a deeper level every time. There’s something about the way she tells a story that always draws me in emotionally and keeps me invested until the very end.
The only downside is how short this book is. Kash and Cressida truly deserved a longer story, as their connection and development were so engaging and full of potential. I loved everything about this book—the plot, the emotions, and the characters, who felt genuine and easy to connect with.
While I enjoyed the ending, it did feel slightly rushed, leaving me wishing there had been more time to explore certain moments and fully wrap up their story. Overall, a wonderful read that left me wanting more—which is both a compliment and a small frustration.
I also adore this author. She has never written a bad book, and her writing style resonates with me on a deeper level every time. There’s something about the way she tells a story that always draws me in emotionally and keeps me invested until the very end.
The only downside is how short this book is. Kash and Cressida truly deserved a longer story, as their connection and development were so engaging and full of potential. I loved everything about this book—the plot, the emotions, and the characters, who felt genuine and easy to connect with.
While I enjoyed the ending, it did feel slightly rushed, leaving me wishing there had been more time to explore certain moments and fully wrap up their story. Overall, a wonderful read that left me wanting more—which is both a compliment and a small frustration.
December 27, 2025
Well this was one Hell Of A Christmas....it packed a punch and delivered all the deliciousness Abbi ALWAYS packs into one of her book. And, finally, it was the story about Kash Savelle and Cressida Beck, a story I have been interested in knowing about.
Kash and his steely blue eyes hold a darkness, but for Cressida she witnessed what many didn't. But a moment where a situation misread and man left dead, these two broke each other, and the mafia family exiled him to Alabama.
This year Kash was allowed home to Mississippi, and imagine his surprise when he sees Cressida. But Cressida is just as surprised, but is also cautious and alot has happened to her since Kash left. And when he finds out and these two "reunite"it is clear that with alittle Christmas 'intervention' that even the wrath of the family can't keep these two apart. Another Abbi banger, I absolutely will read anything and everything Abbi writes, and this series is absolutely one of my favourites.
Kash and his steely blue eyes hold a darkness, but for Cressida she witnessed what many didn't. But a moment where a situation misread and man left dead, these two broke each other, and the mafia family exiled him to Alabama.
This year Kash was allowed home to Mississippi, and imagine his surprise when he sees Cressida. But Cressida is just as surprised, but is also cautious and alot has happened to her since Kash left. And when he finds out and these two "reunite"it is clear that with alittle Christmas 'intervention' that even the wrath of the family can't keep these two apart. Another Abbi banger, I absolutely will read anything and everything Abbi writes, and this series is absolutely one of my favourites.
January 3, 2026
I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a gifted ARC via Abbi Glines and Wordsmith Publicity. All opinions expressed are my own. HELL OF A CHRISTMAS is the ninth book in the MISSISSIPPI SMOKE series by Abbi Glines. Former lovers, Kash and Cressida, face a tense Christmas reunion after a devastating betrayal tore them apart. This is a spicy, open door, first person, dual POV, contemporary mafia romance with tropes including second chance, billionaire romance, holiday romance, Christmas Romance, high school sweethearts, touch her and die, morally grey antihero, dark romance, obsessive/possessive alpha hero, home for Christmas, and small town romance. This holiday novella about members of the Mississippi branch of the Southern Boy Mafia was a short taste of the series. The novel was well paced, not feeling rushed or ending abruptly as can sometimes happen with novellas. Readers will be treated to a longer novel about the couple sometime in the next few months, but this gave an introduction and some history about the pair. I enjoyed meeting Kash, who was an exiled member of this branch of the family, and I really liked Cressida. I recommend this novella for readers who enjoy Willow Winters, Cora Reilly, or Rachel Van Dyken and enjoy books with morally grey antiheroes.
December 29, 2025
As you know when one of the guys falls in love they will do anything to protect their girl…you know psycho crazy love!
Kash is no different. Kash meets Cressida in high school and falls head over heels. Cressida and her family seem to have it all together but as her relationship with Kash continues her step brother becomes more crazed and possessive!
Actions by Kash gets him booted from Mississippi and sent away to the Alabama family! A few years later he has returned home for Christmas and the feelings he has for Cressida has not gone away!
He is looking for closure but the toxic feelings he has will only create issues for the Family!
Kash wants to come back home but he also wants to understand why Cressida betrayed him!
A Christmas miracle is needed for the Savelle Family and Kash is determined to be on his best behavior!
Absolutely loved this Christmas story! It was so easy to sit down and get caught up in the Southern Mafia this holiday season!
Kash is no different. Kash meets Cressida in high school and falls head over heels. Cressida and her family seem to have it all together but as her relationship with Kash continues her step brother becomes more crazed and possessive!
Actions by Kash gets him booted from Mississippi and sent away to the Alabama family! A few years later he has returned home for Christmas and the feelings he has for Cressida has not gone away!
He is looking for closure but the toxic feelings he has will only create issues for the Family!
Kash wants to come back home but he also wants to understand why Cressida betrayed him!
A Christmas miracle is needed for the Savelle Family and Kash is determined to be on his best behavior!
Absolutely loved this Christmas story! It was so easy to sit down and get caught up in the Southern Mafia this holiday season!
January 1, 2026
Hell of a Christmas was one hell of a story! Abbi always knows how to pull on my heart strings and give me the most anxiety. I hate when there's tension in the Family... especially where Mr. Blaise Hughes is concerned. I've always been curious about Kash, and I'm so happy that I've gotten his story. I hate that some of our boys are going through a rough time, but I'm looking forward to Forge's story. Congratulations on yet another excellent story, Abbi!
Kash and Cressida were beautifully unique individuals, and they brought the tension like no other... okay, there might be a few that really have my anxiety up. This whole book had me on the edge of my seat, but in the best way. I'm really excited for what's to come and very curious as well... I hope we get to explore all of the branches of the Southern Mafia. I know that's a lot of people to discover, but why not?! Again, this story was amazing, and I can't wait for more!
Kash and Cressida were beautifully unique individuals, and they brought the tension like no other... okay, there might be a few that really have my anxiety up. This whole book had me on the edge of my seat, but in the best way. I'm really excited for what's to come and very curious as well... I hope we get to explore all of the branches of the Southern Mafia. I know that's a lot of people to discover, but why not?! Again, this story was amazing, and I can't wait for more!
January 9, 2026
Kash Savelle hadn’t broken me, he’d shattered my world. I was alone, lost, and clawing to make it day to day. I should hate him and not a day passed that I wished I could. Seeing him again was the last thing I needed. Not when I almost had some form of security. But like the devil himself, there he was… standing on the street watching me. Still as painfully beautiful as he had always been.
Betrayal had never been something I’d experienced until Cressida Beck stole my soul, then ripped it from my body. My obsession with her had caused me to lose the life I’d been raised in, my family. I was exiled to Alabama to live with that branch of the southern mafia. No longer trusted in Mississippi, until now. This year, I was getting to come home for Christmas. Seeing the girl who had ruined me wouldn’t break me this time. I wouldn’t lose it all for her again. I just had to keep a firm grip on my sanity and stop seeking her out like the animal inside me that hadn’t stopped craving her.
Betrayal had never been something I’d experienced until Cressida Beck stole my soul, then ripped it from my body. My obsession with her had caused me to lose the life I’d been raised in, my family. I was exiled to Alabama to live with that branch of the southern mafia. No longer trusted in Mississippi, until now. This year, I was getting to come home for Christmas. Seeing the girl who had ruined me wouldn’t break me this time. I wouldn’t lose it all for her again. I just had to keep a firm grip on my sanity and stop seeking her out like the animal inside me that hadn’t stopped craving her.
December 27, 2025
Hell of a Christmas is the ninth book in the Mississippi Smoke series and this story focuses on Kash Savelle and Cressida Beck. Although this book is part of this wonderful southern mafia series, I feel it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone. Kash and Cressida first met and fell in love in high school, however one night changes everything ending up with Kash being exiled to another branch of the family. It's been four years since that night and when they run into each other once again, Kash's obsession still runs deep and he will do anything for the women he loves. This story is on the shorter side but it is full of tension, chemistry, drama and will have you feeling so many emotions as you follow these two characters as they find their happiness. Loved this story and hope that we see more of Kash and Cressida in the future!!!
December 28, 2025
This is the 9th book in this phenomenal series, and this is Kash and Cressida’s journey.
In the past Kash broken Cressida’s heart and shattered her world, while she in return stole his soul, and ripped it from his body, and he lost the life he was raised in with his family and exiled to Alabama. Kash us coming home this Christmas, while Cressida though she would be safe in Mississippi, until she crosses paths with her past.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, angst, trust, betrayal, forbidden romance, morally grey, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
In the past Kash broken Cressida’s heart and shattered her world, while she in return stole his soul, and ripped it from his body, and he lost the life he was raised in with his family and exiled to Alabama. Kash us coming home this Christmas, while Cressida though she would be safe in Mississippi, until she crosses paths with her past.
This is a well written easy to read, action packed, emotional roller coaster, with family, friendships, angst, trust, betrayal, forbidden romance, morally grey, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, mafia romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
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