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Library Love Notes #7
Checking Out Santa
He didn’t expect a town that worshipped rodents to be the place that healed his heart…
Jasper Haggarty went to Beaver Creek with one to clean out his estranged, deceased father’s home and get back to Calgary. He never asked for a small-town life or nosy neighbours. He has a job, an apartment, and a mother whom he speaks to…occasionally.
Bronwyn Scott has always lived in Beaver Creek. As the city events coordinator, the town’s happiness practically rests on her shoulders. She’ll do anything to live up to the community’s expectations, even blackmailing Beaver Creek’s newest arrival.
After their disastrous first meeting, Jasper can’t forget Bronwyn, and Bronwyn, desperate for Jasper to step into his father’s shiny black boots, won’t let him. Donning the mantle of jolliest elf is the last thing introverted Jasper wants, but Bronwyn won’t take no for an answer, not with Christmas at stake.
There’s no mistletoe needed for the sparks to fly in this interconnected story from The Library Love Notes series.
Jasper Haggarty went to Beaver Creek with one to clean out his estranged, deceased father’s home and get back to Calgary. He never asked for a small-town life or nosy neighbours. He has a job, an apartment, and a mother whom he speaks to…occasionally.
Bronwyn Scott has always lived in Beaver Creek. As the city events coordinator, the town’s happiness practically rests on her shoulders. She’ll do anything to live up to the community’s expectations, even blackmailing Beaver Creek’s newest arrival.
After their disastrous first meeting, Jasper can’t forget Bronwyn, and Bronwyn, desperate for Jasper to step into his father’s shiny black boots, won’t let him. Donning the mantle of jolliest elf is the last thing introverted Jasper wants, but Bronwyn won’t take no for an answer, not with Christmas at stake.
There’s no mistletoe needed for the sparks to fly in this interconnected story from The Library Love Notes series.
220 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 7, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 36 reviews
July 15, 2026
BRONWYN and JASPER's story brings a wrap to Christmas in this final installment of the Library Love Notes Stories.
From grief to anger, to understanding, and finally to learning communication, this book brings all the feels. The loss of Santa in Beaver Creek brings Jasper to town to deal with the affairs of a father forgotten long ago. For Bronwyn, the loss of Stan is more than just losing Santa; it's about losing a friend and someone who treated her like family.
How will Jasper deal with a house full of things belonging to a stranger rather than a father, and how will Bronwyn process the loss of her friend while the town grieves the loss of the Beaver Creek Santa?
This is the seventh and final book of the Library Love Notes Stories. The series was a fantastic seven-book collection encompassing a variety of subjects, tropes, and awareness.
From grief to anger, to understanding, and finally to learning communication, this book brings all the feels. The loss of Santa in Beaver Creek brings Jasper to town to deal with the affairs of a father forgotten long ago. For Bronwyn, the loss of Stan is more than just losing Santa; it's about losing a friend and someone who treated her like family.
How will Jasper deal with a house full of things belonging to a stranger rather than a father, and how will Bronwyn process the loss of her friend while the town grieves the loss of the Beaver Creek Santa?
This is the seventh and final book of the Library Love Notes Stories. The series was a fantastic seven-book collection encompassing a variety of subjects, tropes, and awareness.
July 10, 2026
Thank you to L.E. Wagsensveld for providing an eARC for review. But I bought my own copy anyways because this book is amazing
All thoughts and opinions are my own blah blah blah.
.
.
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Some things to know about me: I'm a sucker for everything this author dreams up, I love small town romances, a love a little angst/drama in my romances, and I did not know migraine representation in books was something I needed but boy howdy, yes it was.
Checking Out Santa finishes up the year that takes place in Beaver Creek over the course of the Library Love Notes series. It's full of Christmassy wonder and fun, with peppermint hot cocoa, brownies, corny Hallmark holiday movies, cheeky candy cane print underthings, ice skating, and so much more. I love a holiday romance, and actually loved reading this in July during the wrong time of year.
I loved the meetcute between FMC Bronwyn and MMC Jasper. I also loved that Bronwyn was kind of insane- in a fun way- and reminded me a lot of myself if I were an extravert. Bronwyn gives off ADHD vibes in my opinion, and often gets rambly and goes on tangents and has big feelings about things that others may not have big feelings about. She's also the eldest sister of five and grew up poor, and while I don't have four siblings, I do relate to everything else. I particularly enjoyed the banter with her siblings, especially including the dinner roll she lobbed at her brothers head across the table.
I loved Jasper, who I relate to through his quiet, nerdy, introverted self. Bronwyn absolutely 'adopts' him, as only an extravert can adopt an introvert. His upbringing couldn't have been more different (imagine Canadian Richard and Emily Gilmore as parents) from Bronwyn's, and he suffers from migraines. I did not know I needed this representation until I saw it play out on page. Right down to the goofy-but-effective icy headache hats.
There's some miscommunication / "I lost my phone!" that happens in the book a couple times, and usually I can't stand that nonsense, but it was done in such a way that felt plausible.
There were a few spicy scenes, and included verbal on page enthusiastic consent as well as protection. There was also a lot of moments between the two love interests not spent between the sheets (or on knees, or against doorframes or walls, etc) where they just got to know each other, spend time together, and be in the moment. That's one thing Ms. Wagensveld does exceptionally well in all her books, and it really shined here. She also manages to write extremely lovable side characters, and I've put in my request for Jasper's bestie Luke to get his own spin off story (please please please) because Luke deserves an HEA, too.
There isn't a thing about Checking Out Santa I didn't like. Everything worked for me, and had it not been for my work schedule, I would have finished this in one day. Highly recommend if any of these tropes do anything for you, even a little bit.
All thoughts and opinions are my own blah blah blah.
.
.
.
Some things to know about me: I'm a sucker for everything this author dreams up, I love small town romances, a love a little angst/drama in my romances, and I did not know migraine representation in books was something I needed but boy howdy, yes it was.
Checking Out Santa finishes up the year that takes place in Beaver Creek over the course of the Library Love Notes series. It's full of Christmassy wonder and fun, with peppermint hot cocoa, brownies, corny Hallmark holiday movies, cheeky candy cane print underthings, ice skating, and so much more. I love a holiday romance, and actually loved reading this in July during the wrong time of year.
I loved the meetcute between FMC Bronwyn and MMC Jasper. I also loved that Bronwyn was kind of insane- in a fun way- and reminded me a lot of myself if I were an extravert. Bronwyn gives off ADHD vibes in my opinion, and often gets rambly and goes on tangents and has big feelings about things that others may not have big feelings about. She's also the eldest sister of five and grew up poor, and while I don't have four siblings, I do relate to everything else. I particularly enjoyed the banter with her siblings, especially including the dinner roll she lobbed at her brothers head across the table.
I loved Jasper, who I relate to through his quiet, nerdy, introverted self. Bronwyn absolutely 'adopts' him, as only an extravert can adopt an introvert. His upbringing couldn't have been more different (imagine Canadian Richard and Emily Gilmore as parents) from Bronwyn's, and he suffers from migraines. I did not know I needed this representation until I saw it play out on page. Right down to the goofy-but-effective icy headache hats.
There's some miscommunication / "I lost my phone!" that happens in the book a couple times, and usually I can't stand that nonsense, but it was done in such a way that felt plausible.
There were a few spicy scenes, and included verbal on page enthusiastic consent as well as protection. There was also a lot of moments between the two love interests not spent between the sheets (or on knees, or against doorframes or walls, etc) where they just got to know each other, spend time together, and be in the moment. That's one thing Ms. Wagensveld does exceptionally well in all her books, and it really shined here. She also manages to write extremely lovable side characters, and I've put in my request for Jasper's bestie Luke to get his own spin off story (please please please) because Luke deserves an HEA, too.
There isn't a thing about Checking Out Santa I didn't like. Everything worked for me, and had it not been for my work schedule, I would have finished this in one day. Highly recommend if any of these tropes do anything for you, even a little bit.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to L.E. Wagensveld for providing this ARC of Checking Out Santa in exchange for my review.
⭐⭐ 3.75/5 stars ⭐⭐
So this is it, the final book in Beaver Creek, and I am WEEPING (emotionally, not actually, I've got things to do). Genuinely gutted it's over. I will be first in line for another multi-author small town collab if anyone's offering, because the fun of hopping between authors while staying in the same cosy little world is just chef's kiss. Also, reading a Christmas book in July, in the UK, in actual summer, felt borderline illegal. I was also praying, praying, that this wasn't going to be a "falling for Santa" situation, because listen... there are some tropes I simply do not have the emotional bandwidth for.
Jasper, my love. This man has some Family Issues with a capital ISSUE. I won't say his dad abandoned him, it's messier and more complicated than that, but growing up dadless with a mum who's about as emotionally present as a Christmas bauble will do things to a person. Suddenly his bluntness and his ride or die bromance with his best mate make complete sense. He's not cold, he's just never been given a reason not to be guarded, and watching that crack open a bit was properly lovely.
And then there's Bronwyn. This girl is sweeter than a candy cane (yes, I went there, no, I'm not sorry) and she is out here trying to single-handedly keep the joy and morale of Beaver Creek afloat. Being the town's unofficial jolly little helper elf sounds exhausting, frankly, and I wanted to hand her a cup of tea and tell her to sit down for five minutes.
Together though? Sugar and spice and all things nice, and honestly a properly fitting send-off for a series I've loved. It made me laugh, it had me pausing the book just to have A Moment, sometimes hopeful, sometimes a bit despairing, and it gave me all of the feels a good finale should. Beaver Creek, you will be missed.
⭐⭐ 3.75/5 stars ⭐⭐
So this is it, the final book in Beaver Creek, and I am WEEPING (emotionally, not actually, I've got things to do). Genuinely gutted it's over. I will be first in line for another multi-author small town collab if anyone's offering, because the fun of hopping between authors while staying in the same cosy little world is just chef's kiss. Also, reading a Christmas book in July, in the UK, in actual summer, felt borderline illegal. I was also praying, praying, that this wasn't going to be a "falling for Santa" situation, because listen... there are some tropes I simply do not have the emotional bandwidth for.
Jasper, my love. This man has some Family Issues with a capital ISSUE. I won't say his dad abandoned him, it's messier and more complicated than that, but growing up dadless with a mum who's about as emotionally present as a Christmas bauble will do things to a person. Suddenly his bluntness and his ride or die bromance with his best mate make complete sense. He's not cold, he's just never been given a reason not to be guarded, and watching that crack open a bit was properly lovely.
And then there's Bronwyn. This girl is sweeter than a candy cane (yes, I went there, no, I'm not sorry) and she is out here trying to single-handedly keep the joy and morale of Beaver Creek afloat. Being the town's unofficial jolly little helper elf sounds exhausting, frankly, and I wanted to hand her a cup of tea and tell her to sit down for five minutes.
Together though? Sugar and spice and all things nice, and honestly a properly fitting send-off for a series I've loved. It made me laugh, it had me pausing the book just to have A Moment, sometimes hopeful, sometimes a bit despairing, and it gave me all of the feels a good finale should. Beaver Creek, you will be missed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking Out Santa by LE Wagensveld in the 7th and final book in the Library Love Notes, multi author series based in quirky Canadian small town, Beaver Creek. The story follows town local Bronwyn Scott, the eldest of 5, best friend to Nora and a town favourite as she works at the council as the festival organiser. She loves her job and bringing joy to the townsfolk, especially the Winter Festival and all things Christmas. But with unexpected passing of Stan, the man who has played the part of Santa for the past 10 years, she needs to find someone to replace him and is finding the planning a little more stressful than usual. Enter Jasper.
Jasper Heggarty, son to Stan, is in Beaver Creek to tidy up his father’s affairs and close the chapter on what was an estranged relationship. Having nothing to do with his dad since he was 17, this task is proving to be more of an emotional roller coaster than he expected. As fate has it, Bronwyn and Jasper cross paths and work out a deal to help each other which has Jasper agreeing to play Santa. The closer Bronwyn and Jasper get, the more they peel back the layers and it quickly becomes more than just a physical attraction.
I liked the back stories of both characters and how that intertwined with their behaviours and characteristics and built up their story of opposites attract. I recommend reading Checking Out Santa if you feel like a light, warm and fuzzy Christmas romance with heart and laughter. This was a great end to the series, the perfect bow on top!
I have loved every minute of being in Beaver Creek, the small town quirky locals, and the visitors that decided to stay and call this place home. I wish I could visit, especially for the holidays and the Winter Festival.
5 ⭐️
Jasper Heggarty, son to Stan, is in Beaver Creek to tidy up his father’s affairs and close the chapter on what was an estranged relationship. Having nothing to do with his dad since he was 17, this task is proving to be more of an emotional roller coaster than he expected. As fate has it, Bronwyn and Jasper cross paths and work out a deal to help each other which has Jasper agreeing to play Santa. The closer Bronwyn and Jasper get, the more they peel back the layers and it quickly becomes more than just a physical attraction.
I liked the back stories of both characters and how that intertwined with their behaviours and characteristics and built up their story of opposites attract. I recommend reading Checking Out Santa if you feel like a light, warm and fuzzy Christmas romance with heart and laughter. This was a great end to the series, the perfect bow on top!
I have loved every minute of being in Beaver Creek, the small town quirky locals, and the visitors that decided to stay and call this place home. I wish I could visit, especially for the holidays and the Winter Festival.
5 ⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking Out Santa
This is the 7th and last book of the ' Library Love Notes' series and I am sad to say goodbye to Beaver Creek.
But if I have to, this book was a great way to leave. Bronwyn and Jasper are the true definition of opposites attract. Bronwyn is outgoing, witty and unfiltered whilst Jasper is the epitome of an introvert. But they work together, they work so well.
Their whole lives are so different, yet they find a way to connect. Bronwyn is there for Jasper, showing him care and compassion, letting him know that she is willing to just let him be. After she asks him a HUGE favor. Jasper, at first, doesn't really know how to handle Bronwyn's brashness. But he does know that he wants her.
Watching as these two navigate their feelings for each other is such a joy. Bronwyn had me laughing with some of the things she said and I didn't know if I wanted to hug or slap Jasper at times but it was such a fun journey. This story was such a sweet and cute one that had me wanting to stay in their lives a little longer. Whilst the story generally didn't feel rushed, the ending felt quick and as I said, I wanted it to go on a little longer.
I am holding on to the fact that Bronwyn has 4 siblings and Jasper has a best friend/brother and that we will hopefully get their stories too. Another 4 star read to round out this series.
This is the 7th and last book of the ' Library Love Notes' series and I am sad to say goodbye to Beaver Creek.
But if I have to, this book was a great way to leave. Bronwyn and Jasper are the true definition of opposites attract. Bronwyn is outgoing, witty and unfiltered whilst Jasper is the epitome of an introvert. But they work together, they work so well.
Their whole lives are so different, yet they find a way to connect. Bronwyn is there for Jasper, showing him care and compassion, letting him know that she is willing to just let him be. After she asks him a HUGE favor. Jasper, at first, doesn't really know how to handle Bronwyn's brashness. But he does know that he wants her.
Watching as these two navigate their feelings for each other is such a joy. Bronwyn had me laughing with some of the things she said and I didn't know if I wanted to hug or slap Jasper at times but it was such a fun journey. This story was such a sweet and cute one that had me wanting to stay in their lives a little longer. Whilst the story generally didn't feel rushed, the ending felt quick and as I said, I wanted it to go on a little longer.
I am holding on to the fact that Bronwyn has 4 siblings and Jasper has a best friend/brother and that we will hopefully get their stories too. Another 4 star read to round out this series.
July 12, 2026
Checking Out Santa is a holiday romance. It is also part of the Library Love Notes series, a series of open-door, small-town romances set in the fictional cozy town of Beaver Creek, Ontario. This book features Bronwyn Scott and Jasper Haggarty.
After Jasper learns of his father's passing, he heads to Beaver Creek to clean out the house and settle his affairs. While Jasper hadn't spoken with his father in 17 years, his death still came as a shock; he always thought he would have more time. Now he finds himself piecing together clues to learn who his father truly was and why he left.
Bronwyn is Beaver Creek's town events coordinator. Bronwyn knew Jasper's father, Stan. The man had lived in Beaver Creek for 15 years and played the town Santa. She didn't know he had a son. When she meets Jasper, it seems like perhaps her current issue of not having a Santa for this year's Christmas events might be solved. Jasper isn't keen to take on the role but Bronwyn offers her assistance in helping him clean out Stan's house and settle his affairs as a trade. As the task is overwhelming, Jasper agrees, without fully appreciating what he has committed to do.
As Bronwyn and Jasper spend time together, they cannot deny their connection. This is their love story.
I liked Bronwyn's quirky character as well as her sweet nature and her determination. She is the embodiment of "if you need something done, give it to a busy person". There's nothing that will stop her. I also liked Jasper. He comes across as a level-headed and relatable individual. I appreciated how much of their respective histories the author shared, and how she brought them together. The two had great chemistry.
While I'm sad this is the end of the Library Love Notes series, I enjoyed every book. I will miss Beaver Creek and its inhabitants.
After Jasper learns of his father's passing, he heads to Beaver Creek to clean out the house and settle his affairs. While Jasper hadn't spoken with his father in 17 years, his death still came as a shock; he always thought he would have more time. Now he finds himself piecing together clues to learn who his father truly was and why he left.
Bronwyn is Beaver Creek's town events coordinator. Bronwyn knew Jasper's father, Stan. The man had lived in Beaver Creek for 15 years and played the town Santa. She didn't know he had a son. When she meets Jasper, it seems like perhaps her current issue of not having a Santa for this year's Christmas events might be solved. Jasper isn't keen to take on the role but Bronwyn offers her assistance in helping him clean out Stan's house and settle his affairs as a trade. As the task is overwhelming, Jasper agrees, without fully appreciating what he has committed to do.
As Bronwyn and Jasper spend time together, they cannot deny their connection. This is their love story.
I liked Bronwyn's quirky character as well as her sweet nature and her determination. She is the embodiment of "if you need something done, give it to a busy person". There's nothing that will stop her. I also liked Jasper. He comes across as a level-headed and relatable individual. I appreciated how much of their respective histories the author shared, and how she brought them together. The two had great chemistry.
While I'm sad this is the end of the Library Love Notes series, I enjoyed every book. I will miss Beaver Creek and its inhabitants.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Going to miss this beautiful, meddling small town of Beaver Creek.
What a great ending to the series for library love notes.
This made me laugh so much at some of Bronwyn unfiltered things she said
"it's alright, I usually like to give consent before having my hair pulled is all"
These two are a perfect match, witty, cute and down right adorable together especially Bronwyn with her unfiltered words sometimes.
I liked learning more about Jasper and his family situation.
I missed seeing more of Jasper's best friend I know he was busy in Beaver Creek but would have loved more of their banter.
I did think the word juxtaposition was used a lot or maybe I'm not used to seeing the word either way this was an absolute blast to read.
I'm truly going to reading more of this small town and all the residents, unless the authors decide to do some spin offs. Which honestly I hope they do especially for Luke or maybe Trevor and Nix, seems something could be written about them. Then I'm going to miss it if not. It's been a hell of a ride reading everyone's stories.
What a great ending to the series for library love notes.
This made me laugh so much at some of Bronwyn unfiltered things she said
"it's alright, I usually like to give consent before having my hair pulled is all"
These two are a perfect match, witty, cute and down right adorable together especially Bronwyn with her unfiltered words sometimes.
I liked learning more about Jasper and his family situation.
I missed seeing more of Jasper's best friend I know he was busy in Beaver Creek but would have loved more of their banter.
I did think the word juxtaposition was used a lot or maybe I'm not used to seeing the word either way this was an absolute blast to read.
I'm truly going to reading more of this small town and all the residents, unless the authors decide to do some spin offs. Which honestly I hope they do especially for Luke or maybe Trevor and Nix, seems something could be written about them. Then I'm going to miss it if not. It's been a hell of a ride reading everyone's stories.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars. A cute Christmasy romance.
Bronwyn Scott is just trying to make sure the Winter Carnival in Beaver Creek is a success, despite losing the man who had played Santa for the last 10 years. Then Jasper Haggarty comes to town to clean out his estranged, deceased father's home. Bronwyn figures it's perfect since he looks just like Stan, the Santa every child in town knew. As he begrudgingly agrees to help, sparks start to fly.
Overall, this is a super cute and fun story. I like Jasper and Brownwyn, and both characters feel very realistic. They have supportive friends and we get a chance to see both of them in their elements. Jasper working through some of his family challenges was also great.
I wish we got to see a bit more of Bronwyn growing and the two of them spending a bit more time really supporting one another.
Overall, this is a fun Christmas read and I definitely recommend it for a snowy afternoon with a cup of cocoa.
Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Bronwyn Scott is just trying to make sure the Winter Carnival in Beaver Creek is a success, despite losing the man who had played Santa for the last 10 years. Then Jasper Haggarty comes to town to clean out his estranged, deceased father's home. Bronwyn figures it's perfect since he looks just like Stan, the Santa every child in town knew. As he begrudgingly agrees to help, sparks start to fly.
Overall, this is a super cute and fun story. I like Jasper and Brownwyn, and both characters feel very realistic. They have supportive friends and we get a chance to see both of them in their elements. Jasper working through some of his family challenges was also great.
I wish we got to see a bit more of Bronwyn growing and the two of them spending a bit more time really supporting one another.
Overall, this is a fun Christmas read and I definitely recommend it for a snowy afternoon with a cup of cocoa.
Thank you to the author for providing an advanced copy of this book for review. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This story is dual POV, well written, and an emotional, sweet and steamy, opposites attract, contemporary small town romance between Bronwyn, the female extroverted town events planner lead, and Jasper, the male introverted lawyer lead who is in town to settle his father’s estate and get out. I empathised with the significant trauma that both characters carried from their childhood and the impacts that had on their adult choices. I enjoyed Bronwyn’s optimism and perseverance, and her determination to succeed and make events joyful for others. I enjoyed Jasper’s acknowledgement of his challenges, and his willingness to move out of his comfort zone to assist Bronwyn. I enjoyed the developing relationship and the steamy intimate moments. I empathised with the challenges that Jasper’s migraines brought, and the compassionate assistance Bronwyn provided. I enjoyed the optimistic ending and the potential for Jasper’s best friend (who I hope gets at least a bonus novella!).
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and this is my voluntary honest review.
June 30, 2026
I’d first like to thank the author for the advanced copy of this, the 7th and final book in the Beaver Creek collaboration series.
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and what a way to end it, with my favourite one! I just love a bit of Christmas in June 🤣
I was hooked from the start! Checking out Santa is a perfect opposites attract small town romance com, with our bold as brass FMC Bronwyn who goes above and beyond, taking no prisoners when it comes to Beaver Creek and the Christmas Season and our Nerdy, introverted, sexy little glasses wearing MMC Jasper who has an unexpected return to his past.
What was supposed to be a flying visit to clear out his estranged dad’s home, after he passed, turns into something Jasper can’t walk away from. Not only does he fall for small town living, but a special little lady is never far away from his thoughts.
This is a perfect Christmas rom com and I can’t wait to read it again!
I have thoroughly enjoyed reading this series and what a way to end it, with my favourite one! I just love a bit of Christmas in June 🤣
I was hooked from the start! Checking out Santa is a perfect opposites attract small town romance com, with our bold as brass FMC Bronwyn who goes above and beyond, taking no prisoners when it comes to Beaver Creek and the Christmas Season and our Nerdy, introverted, sexy little glasses wearing MMC Jasper who has an unexpected return to his past.
What was supposed to be a flying visit to clear out his estranged dad’s home, after he passed, turns into something Jasper can’t walk away from. Not only does he fall for small town living, but a special little lady is never far away from his thoughts.
This is a perfect Christmas rom com and I can’t wait to read it again!
July 28, 2026
Originally reviewed at Books Etc.
Happy Christmas in July! Today marks the publication of Checking Out Santa by L.E. Wagensveld - the seventh and final installment in the delightful Library Love Notes series. Each novella features different characters and a love story written by a different author. What they share in common, however, is they all take place in the same small town. I’ve read two of the seven so far with hopes to read even more!
Wagensveld packed a lot of emotions into this small package (the novella is just 220 pages long) but she does so really well. At its core, this is a romance and reading as Bronwyn and Jasper finally gave into their attraction to each other was absolutely delightful. (Though, if you’re not usually a novella/short story reader and aren’t an insta love fan, perhaps give this one a miss. It’s not your kind of story!) But woven throughout the swoony moments were heavier emotions that made the book stronger. I wish we could have had more time to see Bronwyn’s family as they were in the present day–she shares stories of the poverty they faced growing up and, while I loved the scene Wagensveld gave us of the whole family together, I think I just wanted a little bit more. (This is nitpicky and too much to ask from a novella, I’m aware!) Jasper’s complicated grief had the potential to take over the story but I think Wagensveld balanced things well. The feels hit me hard with this story, since my estranged dad has also died. And while I never wanted or needed any closure or a reunion, I did wish Jasper could have had that.
I mentioned it a little bit above, but the romance in this was a lot of fun. It was only as I was thinking back on it that I thought about it seeming like it could be insta love because Bronwyn and Jasper’s relationship just made sense to me as I was reading it. They didn’t start hanging out with each other because of attraction. There was no denying they were both immediately curious, of course, but Bronwyn was trying to do her job and make sure the children of Beaver Creek had a wonderful Christmas and Jasper was just trying to work his way through grief. But, as they gradually started spending more time together, they clicked. And it was really lovely watching as their immediate attraction grew into a friendship and blossomed into a romance. All the heart eyes!
I’d also like to start a petition to have a story about Jasper’s best friend, Luke, because that man needs a Happily Ever After and it needs to be in Beaver Creek. Those two boys cannot be separated for much longer.
Checking Out Santa is a great novella to get lost in this summer - or you can save it for the holidays. There’s a lot of festive merriment in L.E. Wagensveld’s novella, along with a storyline that will tug at your heartstrings, characters you’ll want to be friends with, and a small town you’ll want to visit.
*An egalley was provided by the author in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.*
Happy Christmas in July! Today marks the publication of Checking Out Santa by L.E. Wagensveld - the seventh and final installment in the delightful Library Love Notes series. Each novella features different characters and a love story written by a different author. What they share in common, however, is they all take place in the same small town. I’ve read two of the seven so far with hopes to read even more!
Wagensveld packed a lot of emotions into this small package (the novella is just 220 pages long) but she does so really well. At its core, this is a romance and reading as Bronwyn and Jasper finally gave into their attraction to each other was absolutely delightful. (Though, if you’re not usually a novella/short story reader and aren’t an insta love fan, perhaps give this one a miss. It’s not your kind of story!) But woven throughout the swoony moments were heavier emotions that made the book stronger. I wish we could have had more time to see Bronwyn’s family as they were in the present day–she shares stories of the poverty they faced growing up and, while I loved the scene Wagensveld gave us of the whole family together, I think I just wanted a little bit more. (This is nitpicky and too much to ask from a novella, I’m aware!) Jasper’s complicated grief had the potential to take over the story but I think Wagensveld balanced things well. The feels hit me hard with this story, since my estranged dad has also died. And while I never wanted or needed any closure or a reunion, I did wish Jasper could have had that.
I mentioned it a little bit above, but the romance in this was a lot of fun. It was only as I was thinking back on it that I thought about it seeming like it could be insta love because Bronwyn and Jasper’s relationship just made sense to me as I was reading it. They didn’t start hanging out with each other because of attraction. There was no denying they were both immediately curious, of course, but Bronwyn was trying to do her job and make sure the children of Beaver Creek had a wonderful Christmas and Jasper was just trying to work his way through grief. But, as they gradually started spending more time together, they clicked. And it was really lovely watching as their immediate attraction grew into a friendship and blossomed into a romance. All the heart eyes!
I’d also like to start a petition to have a story about Jasper’s best friend, Luke, because that man needs a Happily Ever After and it needs to be in Beaver Creek. Those two boys cannot be separated for much longer.
Checking Out Santa is a great novella to get lost in this summer - or you can save it for the holidays. There’s a lot of festive merriment in L.E. Wagensveld’s novella, along with a storyline that will tug at your heartstrings, characters you’ll want to be friends with, and a small town you’ll want to visit.
*An egalley was provided by the author in exchange for review consideration. All opinions are honest and my own.*
July 7, 2026
ARC Review
I’m not going to lie, I procrastinated starting this one because I didn’t want my time in Beaver Creek to come to an end. This book absolutely did not disappoint as the last instalment of the Library Love Notes series though. I want to be a little more like Bronwyn. She is bold, compassionate, and she doesn’t accept defeat. Jasper is the perfect sweet and spicy nerd. The characters in this book are complex and feel like whole characters. In my opinion all the aspects of their personalities flowed seamlessly. I also adored the side characters like Luke and Nix. The heavier themes in the book were approached with care and I thought discussed well. I thought the book was very well rounded. I think I will be revisiting Beaver Creek in the future!
Checking Out Santa is the seventh book in the Library Love Notes series. Each book is written by a different Canadian Indie author and set in the fictional town of Beaver Creek, Ontario.
I’m not going to lie, I procrastinated starting this one because I didn’t want my time in Beaver Creek to come to an end. This book absolutely did not disappoint as the last instalment of the Library Love Notes series though. I want to be a little more like Bronwyn. She is bold, compassionate, and she doesn’t accept defeat. Jasper is the perfect sweet and spicy nerd. The characters in this book are complex and feel like whole characters. In my opinion all the aspects of their personalities flowed seamlessly. I also adored the side characters like Luke and Nix. The heavier themes in the book were approached with care and I thought discussed well. I thought the book was very well rounded. I think I will be revisiting Beaver Creek in the future!
Checking Out Santa is the seventh book in the Library Love Notes series. Each book is written by a different Canadian Indie author and set in the fictional town of Beaver Creek, Ontario.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rcvd an ARC from the author.
We meet Bronwyn, town event coordinator who is in need of a Santa. Her usually Santa Stan has just passed away leaving a huge void in town and her heart. We meet introvert Jasper who is in Beaver Creek to go thru his father's things. He hasn't spoken to Stan in 17 years, just left him as a teenager. When he hears about how much Stan meant to the community he is shocked...the same man?? Bronwyn convinces Jasper to be Santa much to his dismay. He's not sure what he's doing but along the way started to like Bronwyn. She has her hands full with planning and keeping Nicky aka Jasper in check. He's hot for a nerd. But when Santa gets locked out and only left in his underwear, Bronwyn helps him out and sparks fly. But things are not what they seem. Words are shared and tempers flare before they can get off the ground.
We meet Bronwyn, town event coordinator who is in need of a Santa. Her usually Santa Stan has just passed away leaving a huge void in town and her heart. We meet introvert Jasper who is in Beaver Creek to go thru his father's things. He hasn't spoken to Stan in 17 years, just left him as a teenager. When he hears about how much Stan meant to the community he is shocked...the same man?? Bronwyn convinces Jasper to be Santa much to his dismay. He's not sure what he's doing but along the way started to like Bronwyn. She has her hands full with planning and keeping Nicky aka Jasper in check. He's hot for a nerd. But when Santa gets locked out and only left in his underwear, Bronwyn helps him out and sparks fly. But things are not what they seem. Words are shared and tempers flare before they can get off the ground.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Checking Out Santa is a charming, funny, and heartfelt small-town romance that makes Beaver Creek feel like a place you never want to leave. Bronwyn and Jasper are a delightful opposites-attract pairing—she’s bold, unfiltered, and endlessly determined, while he’s a reserved introvert just trying to survive an unexpected return to his past. Their banter, awkward moments, and slow-burn connection made their story genuinely fun to follow.
I especially enjoyed the emotional layers tied to Jasper’s family history and Bronwyn’s dedication to her community, even if I wished a few side dynamics and character interactions had more page time. The humor and cozy Christmas-town chaos more than make up for it, delivering plenty of laughs and warm moments.
A sweet, festive finale for the series that balances heart, humor, and holiday romance beautifully.
I especially enjoyed the emotional layers tied to Jasper’s family history and Bronwyn’s dedication to her community, even if I wished a few side dynamics and character interactions had more page time. The humor and cozy Christmas-town chaos more than make up for it, delivering plenty of laughs and warm moments.
A sweet, festive finale for the series that balances heart, humor, and holiday romance beautifully.
Review of advance copy
What happens when you fall for Santa?
Checking Out Santa is the final story in the Library Love Notes serie, and what better way to close it out than at Christmas time in Beaver Creek?
Jasper came to Beaver Creek to clean out the house of the father he hasn’t spoke to in over 17 years and found more than he ever bargained for. Bronwyn is planning the town’s Christmas celebration, and who better to convince to be Santa than the former Santa’s son?
Jasper and Browyn’s story is everything you want for a holiday inspired read. Holiday hijinks, a city boy and small town girl, and a town as special as its name. Their story has everything you’re looking for in a cozy romance that also has a little something to spice up the holiday season.
Come back to Beaver Creek for one last story and find out what happens when you’re Checking Out Santa.
July 10, 2026
I was very engaged by the romance, the spice and the humorous banter in this lovely story. The MCs are really sweet together and the side characters are supportive and likeable. Bronwyn throws herself wholeheartedly into her projects and into caring for others. It's no wonder Jasper falls for her so quickly. He has not seen or spoken to his dad in 17 years, which is now causing him a lot of grief. He is in Beaver Creek to pack up his father's house, all the while regretting how little he knew his dad. I love how he plays Santa for the town, despite being a complete introvert. I enjoyed the honest communication between Bronwyn and Jasper. I'm sorry this is the last story taking place in Beaver Creek, as I've found this multi author series very enjoyable.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 11, 2026
3.5 rounded up
The final book in the series is here! I liked both of the characters and found this one to be an easy read to slip into, like most of the books in the series. Bronwyn and Jasper both having darker and heavier pasts was slightly unexpected based on how cute the book looks, but it worked well enough with the characters and set them up for a really lovely foundation to grow from.
This one definitely fit a cute small-town Christmas romance vibe, and I almost wish more of the book were holiday-based as the vibe made sense within that atmosphere. All in all, this one was cute, slower-paced and steamy, and it's a good send-off to the series.
*****
I was sent a complimentary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author for sending this my way!
The final book in the series is here! I liked both of the characters and found this one to be an easy read to slip into, like most of the books in the series. Bronwyn and Jasper both having darker and heavier pasts was slightly unexpected based on how cute the book looks, but it worked well enough with the characters and set them up for a really lovely foundation to grow from.
This one definitely fit a cute small-town Christmas romance vibe, and I almost wish more of the book were holiday-based as the vibe made sense within that atmosphere. All in all, this one was cute, slower-paced and steamy, and it's a good send-off to the series.
*****
I was sent a complimentary advanced reader copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you to the author for sending this my way!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.25 ⭐️
Like living in a Hallmark movie, this last visit to Beaver Creek, is an almost idyllic Christmas romance.
Bronwyn’s job has her organizing the town’s Christmas events and has hit a snag in the planning. Jasper, in town briefly, seems like the perfect, imperfect, person to help.
Both come from families that struggled in different ways and in learning more about each other, they recognize new things about themselves.
Migraine representation, amazing friendships, families both born and found and of course the trials of a new love, Bronwyn and Jasper have my heart.
This is a lovely end to the Library Love Notes series. We get to celebrate Christmas in a town that seems tailor made for a little bit of holiday magic. Hopefully we’ll get a chance to visit again, someday.
Like living in a Hallmark movie, this last visit to Beaver Creek, is an almost idyllic Christmas romance.
Bronwyn’s job has her organizing the town’s Christmas events and has hit a snag in the planning. Jasper, in town briefly, seems like the perfect, imperfect, person to help.
Both come from families that struggled in different ways and in learning more about each other, they recognize new things about themselves.
Migraine representation, amazing friendships, families both born and found and of course the trials of a new love, Bronwyn and Jasper have my heart.
This is a lovely end to the Library Love Notes series. We get to celebrate Christmas in a town that seems tailor made for a little bit of holiday magic. Hopefully we’ll get a chance to visit again, someday.
July 8, 2026
This is the final installment of the library love notes series and it doesn’t disappoint. Jasper comes back to settle his father’s estate; who happened to be the town Santa. Jasper was dealing with some complicated feelings when he found out that the father he thought existed was a different person to this town. Bronwyn, the events coordinator for her small town was in her busiest season, Christmas. Two chance encounters allow them to meet and she discovers who his dad is and the Santa search still bleak, desperate in fact she asks Jasper to fill in. After much fighting he agrees. We follow these two on their journey to Christmas and finding their way to each other with Jasper discovering that maybe this strange small town is
Just what he needed.
Just what he needed.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this as an ARC
Plot- Bronwyn is the town planner in Beaver Creek. Jasper has just arrived to clean out his late father’s house. She needs a Santa for the holiday festivities and his dad used to do it. So they strike a deal.
I thought the storyline was cute. I didn’t love the characters or their backstories. The shocker of why Jasper’s dad moved there in the first place was weird and I found it somewhat unbelievable when you consider he was 16 at the time.
I loved how many of the other characters from the series made cameos in this book. I thought it really tied the books together well. I also enjoyed the ending and epilogue.
Spice 3/5
Plot- Bronwyn is the town planner in Beaver Creek. Jasper has just arrived to clean out his late father’s house. She needs a Santa for the holiday festivities and his dad used to do it. So they strike a deal.
I thought the storyline was cute. I didn’t love the characters or their backstories. The shocker of why Jasper’s dad moved there in the first place was weird and I found it somewhat unbelievable when you consider he was 16 at the time.
I loved how many of the other characters from the series made cameos in this book. I thought it really tied the books together well. I also enjoyed the ending and epilogue.
Spice 3/5
Review of advance copy received from Author
Library Love Notes: Jasper and Bronwyn
He’s in town to pack up his fathers house, and she needs help with the festivals and town activities on the calendar…
When she finds out who he is, she drafts him to be Santa, and they start the sweet build of a friendship before becoming more.
There are some difficult topics… Parentification of an oldest child, neglectful parent, criminal parents and toxic relationship dynamics… I don’t care, his mum is horrible!
But never mind, like the rest of this series, the cozy small town works its magic, and they get one (or a few more) to add to their population.
He’s in town to pack up his fathers house, and she needs help with the festivals and town activities on the calendar…
When she finds out who he is, she drafts him to be Santa, and they start the sweet build of a friendship before becoming more.
There are some difficult topics… Parentification of an oldest child, neglectful parent, criminal parents and toxic relationship dynamics… I don’t care, his mum is horrible!
But never mind, like the rest of this series, the cozy small town works its magic, and they get one (or a few more) to add to their population.
July 7, 2026
This is the last book in the Library Love Notes series.
Jasper is in Beaver creek. To clean out his estranged fathers house. After his father past away.
Bronwyn is the cities events coordinator.
When Bronwyn can't find a Sants Claus. She "blackmails" Jasper into being Santa Claus. Telling him, his father was the towns Santa Claus for years.
In return, she helps Jasper clean out the house.
The more time they spend together. They start to get feelings for each other.
I loved the chemestry between Jasper and Bronwyn.
How she helps him, getting out of his comfortzone.
How Jasper is dealing with his past. So he can go forward.
Jasper is in Beaver creek. To clean out his estranged fathers house. After his father past away.
Bronwyn is the cities events coordinator.
When Bronwyn can't find a Sants Claus. She "blackmails" Jasper into being Santa Claus. Telling him, his father was the towns Santa Claus for years.
In return, she helps Jasper clean out the house.
The more time they spend together. They start to get feelings for each other.
I loved the chemestry between Jasper and Bronwyn.
How she helps him, getting out of his comfortzone.
How Jasper is dealing with his past. So he can go forward.
July 12, 2026
The final book in the Library Lovenotes collection. Can be read as a standalone but I did feel like I might have been a little lost in a couple of the side characters if I hadn’t read the other books in the series. This one was cute. The MMC screamed undiagnosed autism to me, as I was expecting it to get explained that he was but never happened. He was cute and quirky and very likeable. There was a moment where it seemed like there was foreshadowing of a possible romance between Luke and Phoenix until the very end when Luke visited and had “pepe le pew” eyes for a girl at the library but I kinda hope that gets written as maybe a MMF ? One can dream, i would definitely tune in for that
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was absolutely my favorite book and such a great ending to the Library Love Notes series ❤️
I laughed out loud at 99% of this book, such a well written, sweet, funny, romantic, small town, Christmas story that I devoured in one sitting
I am so grateful to the author for the ARC opportunity and I know the series is technically finished but I hope we get a few more books... I definitely want Luke to get a HEA in Beaver Creek 🦫
❤️ How I Rate Books
⭐ didn't like it
⭐⭐ it was ok
⭐⭐⭐ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐Loved it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing! Will reread!
I laughed out loud at 99% of this book, such a well written, sweet, funny, romantic, small town, Christmas story that I devoured in one sitting
I am so grateful to the author for the ARC opportunity and I know the series is technically finished but I hope we get a few more books... I definitely want Luke to get a HEA in Beaver Creek 🦫
❤️ How I Rate Books
⭐ didn't like it
⭐⭐ it was ok
⭐⭐⭐ I liked it
⭐⭐⭐⭐Loved it!
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Amazing! Will reread!
July 18, 2026
Checking Out Santa was the perfect way to wrap up the Library Love Notes series. Browyn and Jasper’s story had the sweetest meet-cute, plenty of heart, and just the right amount of holiday magic.
I loved watching Jasper find healing while finding love in Beaver Creek. Seeing familiar faces from the previous books made this feel like coming home one last time, and it was such a satisfying ending to the series.
I’m truly going to miss this little town and all of its residents. Here’s hoping the authors decide Beaver Creek deserves a few spin-offs… because I’d happily come back. 🎄📚🤍
I loved watching Jasper find healing while finding love in Beaver Creek. Seeing familiar faces from the previous books made this feel like coming home one last time, and it was such a satisfying ending to the series.
I’m truly going to miss this little town and all of its residents. Here’s hoping the authors decide Beaver Creek deserves a few spin-offs… because I’d happily come back. 🎄📚🤍
July 24, 2026
This book is the last installment in a multi-author series with each book at least slightly connected to the public library in Beaver Creek, Ontario. The stories all stand alone, and I was really tickled that the last book takes the timeline all the way to Christmas. The main characters, Bronwyn and Jasper, have the best first names, matching their somewhat quirky personalities (I love excellent name choices!). The banter between these two, and in conversations with other characters, is charming and fun, with the occasional dash of spice. Bronwyn and Jasper have quite a creative meet/cute, and being in a small town, they have several more path crossing moments. Bronwyn needs help with the town's holiday festivities and convinces Jasper to help out. There's chemistry galore between these two, and some family history that needs resolving. This all somehow fits in the frame of a tale that is a run-up to Christmas. It's a delightful, emotional, and slightly spicy read that is just the thing for a summer Christmas moment.
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.
I was given an ARC and volunteered to write a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I enjoyed this book. It’s a Christmas Rom com/ emotional journey. I really enjoyed the chemistry between Jasper and Browyn and how I felt I could connect to them. This book is a dual pov from both main characters and takes you through their romance during the festive period.
This book was a lot more emotional and dealt with grief and loss so ensure you are prepared for this before diving in.
I enjoyed the spice 🌶️
Perfect cosy up reading!
This book was a lot more emotional and dealt with grief and loss so ensure you are prepared for this before diving in.
I enjoyed the spice 🌶️
Perfect cosy up reading!
July 8, 2026
ARC review
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Well, that was an opening scene.
Stand firm on the market rules.
Had those hair problems as well. 🤦♀️
🤣 arm chair and window
Related to Santa. I know him!!
🚗 👀 jump scare
"This time" 😆
I want a lair!
Ok, what did you do for income Jasper?
Kids made of rubber and magic 🤭
⛸️ 😆
📼 🥺
Well crud! 🎅
☕️ spill 😆
Luke's text 🤣
Stan's letters 🥺
Mom with the truth 💣.
😫 🤮 😵💫
📱 Luke "Woohoo!" 😆
Antecdotal thoughts while reading
Well, that was an opening scene.
Stand firm on the market rules.
Had those hair problems as well. 🤦♀️
🤣 arm chair and window
Related to Santa. I know him!!
🚗 👀 jump scare
"This time" 😆
I want a lair!
Ok, what did you do for income Jasper?
Kids made of rubber and magic 🤭
⛸️ 😆
📼 🥺
Well crud! 🎅
☕️ spill 😆
Luke's text 🤣
Stan's letters 🥺
Mom with the truth 💣.
😫 🤮 😵💫
📱 Luke "Woohoo!" 😆
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC Dual POV First Person
Library Love Notes, multi author series, #7
🇨🇦 Authors, settings, and characters
Jasper and Bronwyn
You go in expecting a festive romcom (which you do get, with some spice) and get hit with a sharp pang of grief. Poor Jasper hit with a double whammy of grief, death of his estranged father, and what could've been if either of his parents had been honest.
Library Love Notes, multi author series, #7
🇨🇦 Authors, settings, and characters
Jasper and Bronwyn
You go in expecting a festive romcom (which you do get, with some spice) and get hit with a sharp pang of grief. Poor Jasper hit with a double whammy of grief, death of his estranged father, and what could've been if either of his parents had been honest.
July 8, 2026
While this book was a cute cozy book with a little spice. It had some holes, but it also had some on the best lines. My favorite was right off the first few chapters " I usually like to give consent before having my hair pulled "
Will definitely read again
Will definitely read again
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