What do you think?
Rate this book
A Winter's Secret: A MM, Small Town Romance
You are what your past made you, but your future doesn’t have to be defined by it.
I hated the world, and the world hated me, but that was the way I liked it.
Until Tristan Crutchens barged his way into my life.
With his constant smug grin and infectious happiness, he uncovered secrets I’d kept buried deep inside and made me confront them.
Slowly, I started seeing the world in a different light, and I opened my heart to him. But would love be enough to change the haunting future that awaited me, or was I destined to spend the rest of eternity plagued by the chains of my sins?
A Winter’s Secret is an MM retelling of A Christmas Carol, and is perfect for lovers of grumpy & sunshine MMCs.
I hated the world, and the world hated me, but that was the way I liked it.
Until Tristan Crutchens barged his way into my life.
With his constant smug grin and infectious happiness, he uncovered secrets I’d kept buried deep inside and made me confront them.
Slowly, I started seeing the world in a different light, and I opened my heart to him. But would love be enough to change the haunting future that awaited me, or was I destined to spend the rest of eternity plagued by the chains of my sins?
A Winter’s Secret is an MM retelling of A Christmas Carol, and is perfect for lovers of grumpy & sunshine MMCs.
314 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
My Rating: ★★★½☆
A Winter's Secret by Kate Phillips is a heartfelt MM romance that reimagines the classic tale of A Christmas Carol through a contemporary lens, blending themes of redemption, self-discovery, healing, and love. Featuring a grumpy-and-sunshine dynamic at its core, the novel explores how confronting the past can shape not only who we are, but who we choose to become.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters, particularly the contrast between the guarded and cynical protagonist and Tristan's unwavering warmth and optimism. Their relationship develops in a way that feels genuine and emotionally driven, with Tristan's influence gradually encouraging growth, vulnerability, and self-reflection. As the story progresses, it becomes increasingly easy to become invested in both the characters and their journey together.
The retelling aspect is also handled thoughtfully, with the familiar themes of A Christmas Carol woven naturally into the narrative while still allowing the story to establish its own identity. Readers who enjoy character-focused romances with emotional depth and personal transformation will likely appreciate the way the classic inspiration is incorporated.
For me, this was one of those books that I enjoyed overall, but never quite connected with as deeply as I expected. It took a little while for me to fully settle into the story, and although I found myself becoming more engaged as the plot progressed, there was still a sense that something was missing that prevented it from reaching four-star territory. What that missing element was is difficult to pinpoint, which makes me feel that this may be more of a personal reading preference than an issue with the book itself.
That said, once the story found its footing, I genuinely enjoyed the experience. The emotional moments landed well, the romance was sweet and engaging, and the characters became increasingly easy to root for. In fact, I enjoyed the book enough that I fully intend to revisit it in the future to see whether a second read changes my perspective.
I would recommend A Winter's Secret to readers who enjoy MM romance, grumpy-and-sunshine pairings, redemption arcs, and creative retellings of beloved classics. Those looking for a heartfelt story about healing, forgiveness, and finding light after darkness may find this especially appealing.
Overall, A Winter's Secret is a charming and emotionally thoughtful romance that offers an interesting take on a timeless story. While it didn't completely capture me in the way I had hoped, it was still an enjoyable read with memorable characters and a message that lingers long after the final page.
A Winter's Secret by Kate Phillips is a heartfelt MM romance that reimagines the classic tale of A Christmas Carol through a contemporary lens, blending themes of redemption, self-discovery, healing, and love. Featuring a grumpy-and-sunshine dynamic at its core, the novel explores how confronting the past can shape not only who we are, but who we choose to become.
One of the book's greatest strengths lies in its characters, particularly the contrast between the guarded and cynical protagonist and Tristan's unwavering warmth and optimism. Their relationship develops in a way that feels genuine and emotionally driven, with Tristan's influence gradually encouraging growth, vulnerability, and self-reflection. As the story progresses, it becomes increasingly easy to become invested in both the characters and their journey together.
The retelling aspect is also handled thoughtfully, with the familiar themes of A Christmas Carol woven naturally into the narrative while still allowing the story to establish its own identity. Readers who enjoy character-focused romances with emotional depth and personal transformation will likely appreciate the way the classic inspiration is incorporated.
For me, this was one of those books that I enjoyed overall, but never quite connected with as deeply as I expected. It took a little while for me to fully settle into the story, and although I found myself becoming more engaged as the plot progressed, there was still a sense that something was missing that prevented it from reaching four-star territory. What that missing element was is difficult to pinpoint, which makes me feel that this may be more of a personal reading preference than an issue with the book itself.
That said, once the story found its footing, I genuinely enjoyed the experience. The emotional moments landed well, the romance was sweet and engaging, and the characters became increasingly easy to root for. In fact, I enjoyed the book enough that I fully intend to revisit it in the future to see whether a second read changes my perspective.
I would recommend A Winter's Secret to readers who enjoy MM romance, grumpy-and-sunshine pairings, redemption arcs, and creative retellings of beloved classics. Those looking for a heartfelt story about healing, forgiveness, and finding light after darkness may find this especially appealing.
Overall, A Winter's Secret is a charming and emotionally thoughtful romance that offers an interesting take on a timeless story. While it didn't completely capture me in the way I had hoped, it was still an enjoyable read with memorable characters and a message that lingers long after the final page.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Winters Secret
MCs
Ben
He’s giving broken hearted tough guy vibes. But I don’t like him so far…which to me is great writing. If you can evoke strong feelings from any type of character I’m here for it.
Super keen for some character development for this hot grump.
Tristan
Sunshine personified. He’s got so much riding on his shoulders, not just with his family and himself. But being a glass half full person is going to be draining. Hopefully someone can meet him halfway…
Story starts off detailed and strong. Getting a decent backstory for the characters. There’s some real poignant moments and I honestly am beginning to feel sad for our grumpy hottie.
Dips dark for chapter two - but that’s related to side characters that barely get a mention. Really brings to life some hatred though.
There’s strong themes of homophobia. It’s confronting but real life, people can be so cruel. Tread lightly, some kind hearts may suffer.
This book has some deep themes but honestly it’s just a great mix of sweet small town written by an author with a filthy mind. The smut scenes were well written and not overdone. Really beautiful exploration of MM scenes, they didn’t juxtapose violently between the sweetness. Just a nice addition to the books natural storyline.
All round a great read, evoking hatred for a character is just as good as making us love them. The character development is on point and I think this authors first foray into MM was a success.
Keen for more!
MCs
Ben
He’s giving broken hearted tough guy vibes. But I don’t like him so far…which to me is great writing. If you can evoke strong feelings from any type of character I’m here for it.
Super keen for some character development for this hot grump.
Tristan
Sunshine personified. He’s got so much riding on his shoulders, not just with his family and himself. But being a glass half full person is going to be draining. Hopefully someone can meet him halfway…
Story starts off detailed and strong. Getting a decent backstory for the characters. There’s some real poignant moments and I honestly am beginning to feel sad for our grumpy hottie.
Dips dark for chapter two - but that’s related to side characters that barely get a mention. Really brings to life some hatred though.
There’s strong themes of homophobia. It’s confronting but real life, people can be so cruel. Tread lightly, some kind hearts may suffer.
This book has some deep themes but honestly it’s just a great mix of sweet small town written by an author with a filthy mind. The smut scenes were well written and not overdone. Really beautiful exploration of MM scenes, they didn’t juxtapose violently between the sweetness. Just a nice addition to the books natural storyline.
All round a great read, evoking hatred for a character is just as good as making us love them. The character development is on point and I think this authors first foray into MM was a success.
Keen for more!
June 2, 2026
Modern MM Christmas Carol retelling
Ben McScrooge is a very grumpy and money man who's business is failing after the death of his partner. He will get visited by ghosts but I loved the take on them and how they really fit as people he had failed even if he didn't know how his actions helped lead to their passing.
Enter a night where former tenant Beth and her best friend Tristan Crutchens enter Ben's home and proceed to destroy the property. Tristan takes the fall and now has to spend his time and money repairing the home.
I loved the grumpy verses sunshine in this book. Tristan is out and proud while Ben took one chance on a boy and instead git ridiculed and bullied. Growing up under that bullying and being told how wrong and bad it was to want another man even into adulthood with his business partner has left scars.
I loved seeing Ben and his struggles between what he wanted and what he has been told all his life. The chemistry between these two men is fantastic. The spice is filled with first times, guilt, and so much fear, love and trust.
I loved how this was a very here and now retelling. Ben is a land lord and Tristan does renovation work. It shows that this story is still relevant all these years later. Money doesn't solve problems and loneliness causes bitterness.
I can't wait to see what's next.
Ben McScrooge is a very grumpy and money man who's business is failing after the death of his partner. He will get visited by ghosts but I loved the take on them and how they really fit as people he had failed even if he didn't know how his actions helped lead to their passing.
Enter a night where former tenant Beth and her best friend Tristan Crutchens enter Ben's home and proceed to destroy the property. Tristan takes the fall and now has to spend his time and money repairing the home.
I loved the grumpy verses sunshine in this book. Tristan is out and proud while Ben took one chance on a boy and instead git ridiculed and bullied. Growing up under that bullying and being told how wrong and bad it was to want another man even into adulthood with his business partner has left scars.
I loved seeing Ben and his struggles between what he wanted and what he has been told all his life. The chemistry between these two men is fantastic. The spice is filled with first times, guilt, and so much fear, love and trust.
I loved how this was a very here and now retelling. Ben is a land lord and Tristan does renovation work. It shows that this story is still relevant all these years later. Money doesn't solve problems and loneliness causes bitterness.
I can't wait to see what's next.
Review of advance copy received from Author
REVIEW OF AN ADVANCED READERS COPY
This book is a fantastic adult twist of a classic Christmas Carol. Set in Henderson town Mr McScrooge is a mean, bad spirited, grumpy Christmas hating man whose business is starting to fail after the death of his business partner.
Tristan is a family loving, caring friend, full of life and loves Christmas. After his best friend breaks in and damages Mr McScrooges house he has to fix it all.
They wanted to hate each other but fate had different plans. No one realises the rollercoaster journey these two are about to go on.
This book shows how even in the 21st century people judge and never know what has happened in someone else's life to make them behave the way they do. Different people will act different ways even after something similar happens.
This book is a joyful, easy, rollercoaster read. It is a MM book and the first I have ever read and I would read would read more. I loved this book and had it read in 2days. Katie Philips has outdone herself.
This book is a fantastic adult twist of a classic Christmas Carol. Set in Henderson town Mr McScrooge is a mean, bad spirited, grumpy Christmas hating man whose business is starting to fail after the death of his business partner.
Tristan is a family loving, caring friend, full of life and loves Christmas. After his best friend breaks in and damages Mr McScrooges house he has to fix it all.
They wanted to hate each other but fate had different plans. No one realises the rollercoaster journey these two are about to go on.
This book shows how even in the 21st century people judge and never know what has happened in someone else's life to make them behave the way they do. Different people will act different ways even after something similar happens.
This book is a joyful, easy, rollercoaster read. It is a MM book and the first I have ever read and I would read would read more. I loved this book and had it read in 2days. Katie Philips has outdone herself.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 2, 2026
Loved this MM retelling of a Christmas Carol
We meet Ben who is one of the grumpiest MMC I have ever met. He was so hard and stoic to start with, little by little the layers start to peel back and we see the softer more vulnerable side of Ben.
Then we meet Tristan. OMG I love him!!! He is a Labrador sunshine character who is the perfect other half for Ben, has a lot to do with the healing journey that Ben goes through.
I was so invested in this story I read it in two sittings and could not wait to see where the story went. I was not disappointed at all. I love the balance of characters in this book Tristan had his own hang ups that he needed to heal from too. I think Kate did an amazing job with this retelling I really fun. The spice in this book had me blushing so much omg... Tristan was so bossy and dominant in the bedroom, I loved everything about this book would have given it 6 stars if I could have.
I can not wait to read more from this author.
We meet Ben who is one of the grumpiest MMC I have ever met. He was so hard and stoic to start with, little by little the layers start to peel back and we see the softer more vulnerable side of Ben.
Then we meet Tristan. OMG I love him!!! He is a Labrador sunshine character who is the perfect other half for Ben, has a lot to do with the healing journey that Ben goes through.
I was so invested in this story I read it in two sittings and could not wait to see where the story went. I was not disappointed at all. I love the balance of characters in this book Tristan had his own hang ups that he needed to heal from too. I think Kate did an amazing job with this retelling I really fun. The spice in this book had me blushing so much omg... Tristan was so bossy and dominant in the bedroom, I loved everything about this book would have given it 6 stars if I could have.
I can not wait to read more from this author.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is a modern day retelling of a classic, with a bit of a twist.
Follow along as we watch Ben McScroodge, our grumpy mmc, go from a hopeless, lonely man, to someone who proves that everyone has a good side, even if it’s been buried deep away.
Tristan Crutchens, our loveable mmc, proves that when you truly love someone, you do not give up on them.
From the beginning, the chemistry between Ben and Tristan is undeniable.
The twists and turns throughout this book will have you in the edge of your seat, wanting more.
Kate has done an absolutely amazing job turning a Dickens classic into a modern day story that is sure to be a Christmas favorite of anyone who reads it.
Who says a grumpy man set in his ways cannot be changed by a walking ray of sunshine?
Tristan and Ben are the epitome of opposites attract and their happy ending will have you feeling all the feels.
Follow along as we watch Ben McScroodge, our grumpy mmc, go from a hopeless, lonely man, to someone who proves that everyone has a good side, even if it’s been buried deep away.
Tristan Crutchens, our loveable mmc, proves that when you truly love someone, you do not give up on them.
From the beginning, the chemistry between Ben and Tristan is undeniable.
The twists and turns throughout this book will have you in the edge of your seat, wanting more.
Kate has done an absolutely amazing job turning a Dickens classic into a modern day story that is sure to be a Christmas favorite of anyone who reads it.
Who says a grumpy man set in his ways cannot be changed by a walking ray of sunshine?
Tristan and Ben are the epitome of opposites attract and their happy ending will have you feeling all the feels.
May 18, 2026
Review of advance copy received from author
I really enjoyed reading A Winter’s Secret and ended up finishing it in just one day. The story was entertaining from start to finish and kept me wanting to continue reading.
There were a few moments where things moved a little quickly for my personal taste, and I would have loved a bit more depth in certain parts of the story. However, that didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment for me.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that I genuinely enjoyed, and it definitely made me interested in reading more from this author in the future.
I really enjoyed reading A Winter’s Secret and ended up finishing it in just one day. The story was entertaining from start to finish and kept me wanting to continue reading.
There were a few moments where things moved a little quickly for my personal taste, and I would have loved a bit more depth in certain parts of the story. However, that didn’t take away from the overall enjoyment for me.
Overall, this was a fun and engaging read that I genuinely enjoyed, and it definitely made me interested in reading more from this author in the future.
June 4, 2026
DISCOVERING ALL THE SECRETS
I do enjoy a retelling and A Winter's Secret from Kate Philips was no exception. Not sure this was what Mr. Dickens had in mind but it met all my expectations for an MM romance. With relatable characters who discover themselves through struggles from the past, embracing the present to ensure redemption in the future. The writing was engaging and I felt if A Christmas Carol needed a glow up, this was it. The story was fun, lighthearted and had deep meaningful moments to connect you to the characters and all the emotion and feelings they were processing. If you enjoy MM, retellings and grumpy/sunshine tropes, this is definite must.
I do enjoy a retelling and A Winter's Secret from Kate Philips was no exception. Not sure this was what Mr. Dickens had in mind but it met all my expectations for an MM romance. With relatable characters who discover themselves through struggles from the past, embracing the present to ensure redemption in the future. The writing was engaging and I felt if A Christmas Carol needed a glow up, this was it. The story was fun, lighthearted and had deep meaningful moments to connect you to the characters and all the emotion and feelings they were processing. If you enjoy MM, retellings and grumpy/sunshine tropes, this is definite must.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.75 stars... I really needed to sit with this book after I completed reading it. The way that it hits you in the feels is tremendous and the light shining on discrimination is much needed. Without spoilers, I am sure there are so many people that wish their parents interfered from a place of love instead of control, like Tristan's did, and it was so nice to 'experience' that. This book just goes to show that 'if they wanted to, they would' and we are all worth finding someone that would for us (as well as themselves).
Review of advance copy received from Author
Review of advance copy received from author
I enjoyed reading this twist on A Christmas Carol by the classic Dickens novel. It is a sweet and charming story that is entertaining from the first page.
Tristan and Ben, as characters and as a couple, are easy to love as the author takes the time to explore the budding relationship, while having the characters' own struggles have a direct impact on the progression, which makes it feel realistic.
While the book could have done well with exploring certain aspects/parts of the story more in-depth, it was still an enjoyable read.
I enjoyed reading this twist on A Christmas Carol by the classic Dickens novel. It is a sweet and charming story that is entertaining from the first page.
Tristan and Ben, as characters and as a couple, are easy to love as the author takes the time to explore the budding relationship, while having the characters' own struggles have a direct impact on the progression, which makes it feel realistic.
While the book could have done well with exploring certain aspects/parts of the story more in-depth, it was still an enjoyable read.
Review of advance copy received from Author
An enchanting retelling of A Christmas Carol, although I'm not sure Mr Dickens would have approved our developing romance.
Cleverly and sympathetically written, Kate brings out the best in both our MMCs. Whilst I did not like Ben at all initially, as his story unfolds I began to love him and Tristan just made me want to hug him.
A beautiful, yet different romance that I would definitely recommend.
Cleverly and sympathetically written, Kate brings out the best in both our MMCs. Whilst I did not like Ben at all initially, as his story unfolds I began to love him and Tristan just made me want to hug him.
A beautiful, yet different romance that I would definitely recommend.
May 3, 2026
This book is a twist on the classic Dickens novel, A Christmas Carol, and I have to say I really enjoyed the take on it. This book is charming, fun & sweet, Ben & Tristan are such a great couple and I liked the ease of their relationship despite the struggles Ben was having. That’s not to say it was easy but their HEA was well worth what they went through to get there. Charming read that can be enjoyed throughout the year and especially at Christmas.
June 2, 2026
Could not put this down...
I loved this book... A retelling of a Christmas Carol... Ben was so grumpy, I honestly did not know how this would pan out... Tristan was the perfect sunshine paring for him... Omg there was so much in this book that make my heart ache, feel full and hurt for all the things both characters go through... I loved it and CAN NOT wait to read more from Kate Philips in the future... Loved it.
I loved this book... A retelling of a Christmas Carol... Ben was so grumpy, I honestly did not know how this would pan out... Tristan was the perfect sunshine paring for him... Omg there was so much in this book that make my heart ache, feel full and hurt for all the things both characters go through... I loved it and CAN NOT wait to read more from Kate Philips in the future... Loved it.
June 1, 2026
A winters secret
I absolutely adore Tristan and Ben. I was so captivated by Ben and Tristan's story, it was phenomenal. Ben's shift and acceptance was so well written. I sobbed through the last 20% of the book. Tristan's energy was unmatched and I loved his own development.
An amazing read with some sensitive topics so please keep in mind.
I absolutely adore Tristan and Ben. I was so captivated by Ben and Tristan's story, it was phenomenal. Ben's shift and acceptance was so well written. I sobbed through the last 20% of the book. Tristan's energy was unmatched and I loved his own development.
An amazing read with some sensitive topics so please keep in mind.
June 19, 2026
As someone who has a top 10 movie list and The Muppets Christmas Carol is one of them - this tickled my fancy sooooo much!!
Ben and Bug were the cutest MMCs and I loved each of them for who they are.
Seeing Ben having to face his past to have a future was painful and beautiful.
Bug has so much love to give and he was the perfect sunshine to Ben’s grumpy!
Ben and Bug were the cutest MMCs and I loved each of them for who they are.
Seeing Ben having to face his past to have a future was painful and beautiful.
Bug has so much love to give and he was the perfect sunshine to Ben’s grumpy!
July 9, 2026
I loved this so much! I loved them so much!
I adored the communication in this book, it was so open and honest. Tristan and his family are incredible people, and I need to know why I don’t have a Tristan best friend!?
Okay so I loved Ben from the start. I saw through that bullshit and I just knew 🥹
Love love love!
I adored the communication in this book, it was so open and honest. Tristan and his family are incredible people, and I need to know why I don’t have a Tristan best friend!?
Okay so I loved Ben from the start. I saw through that bullshit and I just knew 🥹
Love love love!
July 13, 2026
I loved this so much, Ben had some redeeming to do and he definitely succeeded!
This book was so good 😍 and the spice - wowzers! Hot hot hot!
This book was so good 😍 and the spice - wowzers! Hot hot hot!
Displaying 1 - 17 of 17 reviews