A Crimson Ridge Christmas

Crimson Ridge #2.5, 4.5

by Elliott Rose

Two steamy taboo relationships, two cheating exes, one drunken three-way, a hot dad, a snowstorm, and just enough sexy cowboys in ugly Christmas sweaters…all in 1 spicy volume featuring 2 Crimson Ridge holiday novellas: Bouquets & Buckles plus the brand new Saddles & Snowfall—now available for the first time!

A DELUXE LIMITED EDITION paperback with stenciled edges, interior covers, full color character art, and exclusive BONUS CONTENT.

Bouquets & Buckles

My plan was to visit my boyfriend back home in Crimson Ridge for the holidays. Instead I uncovered the worst kind of betrayal. Now, I’m hiding from the guy I just caught cheating on me, while stranded with a snowstorm approaching.

All it took was a slip of my thumb. Instead of dialing my best friend for help, I accidentally called my life-long cowboy crush—my best friend’s father. If we get snowed in together on his ranch tonight, how am I supposed to resist my every teenage fantasy when he’s looking at me like that?

Saddles & Snowfall

Tonight’s college party to celebrate the festive season—ugly Christmas sweaters, holiday cookies and all—is turned upside down by news of my ex-girlfriend’s extracurricular activities. That leaves a bitter taste that not even rounds of tequila shots can chase away.

In strolls an offer to get very naughty indeed. A drunken three-way is the perfect cure to forget about cheating exes, right? Only problem, the hot cowboy who just walked in is the last person I should be putting my hands, or anything else, on. My ex-girlfriend's brother…

Bouquets & Buckles and Saddles & Snowfall are interconnected stand-alone novellas set in the same world as the Crimson Ridge series.

Genres: Christmas, Romance, Westerns, Cowboy Romance, Novella, M M Romance, Smut

304 pages, Paperback

Expected publication October 27, 2026

About the author

Elliott Rose is a bestselling author of romance on the forbidden and deliciously dark side. She lives in a teeny tiny beachside community in the south of Aotearoa, New Zealand with her partner and three rescue dogs.

Find her with a witchy brew in hand, a notebook overflowing with book ideas, or wandering along the beach.

Join her reader group The Cauldron for exclusive giveaways, BTS details, first looks at character art/inspo, and intimate chats about new and ongoing projects.


Join her Newsletter for all the goodies and major news direct to your email inbox.


Reviews

[Sarah · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Review of advance copy received from Author

I absolutely love the forbidden relationships in Elliott Rose’s books. The underlying theme of we shouldn’t be doing this will never grow old.

The book is broken into two parts, but the relationships between both stories connect, so that was really cool.

Saddles & Snowfall was all about Brad and Finn! I absolutely loved how the story began! It was so hot and honestly such a wild start! You could just tell these two men were drawn to each other. Seeing that Brad used to date Finn’s sister was crazy. Honestly, their chemistry was so strong that half the time I’d forget about it until they would struggle with that truth. The ending was so special. Totally a super cute, spicy holiday read!

In Bouquets & Buckles, I was obsessed with Lucas and Skylar’s relationship. Their situation was totally temporary, so I was curious to see how that would play out! I loved all the stolen moments and sneaking around. I also loved seeing how the two stories connected so that was really fun!

These two shorts were the perfect spicy holiday reads! I absolutely ate them up!

[That Lady Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ - for both
🌶️🌶️🌶️


Bouquet and buckles
Reread

Such a nice time revisiting my pink haired cutie and my gruff as f*** cowboy.

This novella was such a fun little festive escape. The romance was sweet, the humour had me smiling, and the spice? Oh, it understood the assignment. 🌶️😂 That scene at new years OH. MY. F***ING. GOD. And the whiskey scene 😱 someone take me out right now 🤭

Overall It’s a quick, easy read that would be perfect to curl up with over the Christmas holidays.

Saddles and Snowfall

I am announcing Christmas in October. That settles it, I don’t care. These 2 had me in the mood for Christmas and so much more 😁

Loved the element of Flinn being brads ex girlfriends older brother. The ages weren’t mentioned but I enjoyed the dynamic between the two of them is Bran taking the control and showing Flinn the ropes shall we say. All we have here is 2 precious baby boys you LOVE love and just want someone who you give all of theirs 2.

The meet cute was as hot and steamy as I craved it being, no notes on my end! 💋

Same as bouquets and buss this is a quick easy read perfect little smarty novella we’re just added pinch of pinning.

Shall be purchasing ASAP to get it on my shelf.

Thank you to Smuthood for providing this eARC!

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Read
Awe, I love that we get to read the son’s romance first and then the father’s romance! Getting both stories in one book was so much fun.
I love Brad and Flinn! Their story was steamy, sweet, and fast-paced, and I l thoroughly enjoyed it. Two cowboys might be my new favorite thing, and Elliott Rose is my favorite authors them!
And then we get Luke and Skylar! I LOVE an age gap, and the father and the best friend trope? YES PLEASE! Their chemistry was so good, and I loved how hot their story was while still having such a sweet side to it.
Overall, this was such a fun cowboy romance with two couples to fall for. I loved getting both stories, and it was the perfect mix of sweetness, steam, and romance!

[Sarah S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Feel so lucky to have gotten the ARC for this as anyone who knows me knows Elliott is one of my favorite authors.

I had already read Bouquets and Buckles a long time ago, but it was nice to revisit.

Was also soooooo exciting to read Brad and Flinn’s meet-cute in Saddles & Snowfall! Holy cannoli, can Elliott bring the heat or what?

Felt so good to be back in this world of Crimson Ridge. I love it so much.

[Courtenay (ceelovesbooks) · Rating 5 out of 5]

WEEEE BRAD AND FLINN FOREVER! I loved them before, I super duper love them now. Absolutely obsessed with their love and their clingy-ness and their snowball fights and their spit and their everything. I love them. Missing them already. Cat daddies, glasses daddy.. I can’t. Absolutely loved this so much FULL RTC

[TheMillennialMoodReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️


❄️Ex’s brother
❤️Grumpy/Sunshine
❄️Snowed In
❤️Forbidden Romance
❄️Rancher / Horse trainer
❤️“You never hooked up with a guy before, cowboy?”
❄️A threesome turned mistaken identity
❤️Making sure the drunk brat gets home safely
❄️For the love of god, boy. Let me FEED YOU.
❤️Snow ball fights lead to snow balling of a different kind
❄️Slutty Glasses
❤️”Good Boy”
❄️Nicknames
❤️Banter & Spice


Christmas at Crimson Ridge is exactly where I want to be! I am so glad we got Bran Rhodes and Flinn’s story!!I loved meeting Brad (Sky’s best friend) from Bouquets and Buckles!

Brad finds out his ex girlfriend has been cheating on him for most of their relationship. He decides to let loose at a party and agrees to a threesome. In a case of mistaken identity he ends up blowing (literally) the mind out of none other than his ex’s bashful brother- Flinn.

Brad is a dirty talking, golden retriever cowboy who knows what he wants… and it’s his ex’s brother. Flinn is sweet and endearing. He was in a crappy long distance relationship and really wants connection with a partner. He’s a little naive and inexperienced.

The push and pull between these two is magnetic! Brad pushes him (with consent) to really open up and explore and Flinn balances him with his caregiving. I absolutely loved them! Their chemistry is 🔥

𝙄’𝙢 𝙣𝙤 𝙗𝙚𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙧𝙚𝙚, 𝙛𝙚𝙡𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙨𝙨 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙥𝙖𝙞𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙒𝙧𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙡𝙚𝙧𝙨.

It’s spicy, fun and a pretty fast read! I loved how they couldn’t stand to be away from each other.

𝑩𝒐𝒖𝒒𝒖𝒆𝒕𝒔 & 𝑩𝒖𝒄𝒌𝒍𝒆𝒔
This was a spicy holiday novella that I couldn’t put down!! Skylar decides she’s going to make the drive over and surprise her boyfriend for Christmas. Unfortunately she discovers him cheating on her and when she goes to leave she realizes she has a flat tire and to make matters worse the snow is really coming down. So who does she call— her BFF or so she thought until she realizes she called his dad Lucas- her childhood crush. Lucas of course saves the day by coming to get her and brings her back to his ranch. Now they’re snowed in for the holidays. It may be snowing but it’s scorching inside that house 🔥🥵 ““Be my perfect little sl*t and s0*k my face.”- Daddy Rhodes
🤠

Their chemistry is undeniable and scorching hot! Who doesn’t love an older cowboy that has a filthy mouth and knows how to use it?!
I loved Sky and Lucas and I love the relationship with his son Brad. Sky being Brads best friend just made it so much for fun and forbidden!

4.5⭐️
4🌶️

Tropes:
Age Gap- he gives Daddy Vibes
Cowboy Romance
Best friends dad
Forced Proximity
Taboo
Dual POV
Spicy Chisrtmas Novella

Thank you to Author Elliott Rose, The Smuthood, and Kensington Publishing for the advance copy in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

[Lauralee · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crimson Ridge Christmas is a delightfully steamy collection of two novellas set around Christmas and back with the wonderful people of Crimson Ridge.

I first read Bouquets and Buckles when it first came out, and I was obsessed. I was so incredibly excited to get my hands on Saddles and Snowfall for the first time and I was NOT disappointed. Elliott really doesn't miss. I loved being back in Crimson Ridge, and I love how Elliott writes Christmas.

Bouquets and Buckles gives us Lucas and Skylar, a steamy taboo, best friend's dad, age gap, that packs a major punch for how short it is. The spice is absolutely insane, and she knows she shouldn't because it's literally her best friend's dad, but they're into each other and snowed in, and one thing leads to another, and it turns out hot as hell. You will not be disappointed in the least. Elliott is truly a queen of spice. I love how badass Skylar is and I loved that she gave Lucas a run for his money. They were so good together.

Saddles and Snowfall gives us Brad's story, Lucas's son from the first novella. And it is just as spicy and delicious as the first novella, and this time we have an MM Romance, an ex-girlfriends brother, with some insta lust. This is definitely my favorite of the two novellas and the way that Brad and Flinn get together is honestly really funny. Brad is the more experienced of the two and shows Flinn a lot and honestly they were so incredibly hot together. They were so good to each other and their relationship was truly so sweet.

I had such a good time with these two novellas and I love everything Elliott writes! These were so good!!

[Brittany Furnish · Rating 5 out of 5]

***ARC READER REVIEW***

I went into this expecting a cute holiday novella and somehow ended up completely obsessed with everyone in Crimson Ridge again. These stories are short, but they pack an absurd amount of chemistry, tension, and holiday chaos into a few pages.

The first novella had me clutching my Kindle because that's literally her best friend's dad. The snowed-in situation, the tension, the refusal to act on it until they absolutely couldn't anymore? I ate it up. And Skylar giving Lucas a run for his money made everything even better.

But Brad and Flinn absolutely stole the show for me. Their story had me grinning from start to finish. The chemistry was immediate, the banter was great, and somehow they managed to be both ridiculously hot and genuinely sweet. I was fully invested in them within a few chapters.

Basically, I opened this book thinking I'd read one novella before bed and ended up devouring both while kicking my feet and minding absolutely none of my business. Crimson Ridge owns a small piece of my soul at this point, and I'm not even mad about it.

[Stacey Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leave it to the Queen of cowboy romance to give us not one, but two novellas in our return to Crimson Ridge. Elliott has once again taken the forbidden romance to the next level in both these stories. Finn is Brad’s ex-girlfriend’s brother, and Skylar is Brad’s best friend and Lucas is his dad. Scandalous!

First up we get Brad and Finn in the never before published Saddles & Snowfall.

I absolutely adore these two! These two are simply perfect for each other in every single way. They both crave romance and intimacy with ALL the strings attached.

Next up in the republish of Bouquets & Buckles is Brad’s best friend Skylar and his dad, Lucas! If there’s one thing Elliott knows how to do better than just about anyone else, it’s write dirty talking cowboy age gap romances. This story is no exception.

These stories may be short, but they are not light on the story or spice. If Elliott Rose writes it, I’m going to read it.

Thank you to Kensington and Elliott for the advance reader copy.

[Paige Wuerdemann · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would love to say a massive thank you to The Smuthood and Elliott Rose for the eARC of A Crimson Ridge Christmas!

Since diving into this series earlier in the year I've been obsessed with getting more forbidden cowboy romance, and let me tell you, Rose hits the spot every time with her books! I don't think I'll ever get tired of these books simply because of the forbidden romance aspect of these books.

A Crimson Ridge Christmas is split into two parts, but does have overlapping characters. First we get the son (Saddles & Snowfall) and then we get the father (Bouquets & Buckles). These are the absolute perfect spicy holiday reads.

Brad and Flinn's story gave us an absolute wild ride- a drunken three-way for Brad to forget about his cheating ex. The only problem? Flinn happens to be that ex's brother. That didn't stop the wild chemistry between the two of them though.

In the second part we get Lucas and Skylar's story. What started out as a rescue after Sky's car broke down after she found her boyfriend cheating on her, turns into something more when Lucas and Sky find themselves trapped during a snow storm. Lucas has always been harbouring feelings for her, but never showed it because she was his son's best friend. Little does he know Sky always harboured a crush on her best friend's dad.

I cannot wait for more books in this series from Elliott Rose!

[Danielle (tbr to epilogue) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Two novellas full of Crimson Ridge goodness.

I already read and loved Bouquets and Buckles but reread it because I loved Sky and Lucas so much.

Saddles and Snowfall was new and just like everything else Elliott writes I ate it up!
It was mostly longing and spice but since it was a novella it was a nice and spicy snack.

Bouquets and Buckles is my favorite out of the two, I just love Lucas so much. The way he fought his inevitable feelings, his caring nature and he was just HOT with a capital H.
I also love Sky’s sass and her friendship with Brad.

[ashlee ❤ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Saddles & Snowfall
Brad + Flinn

-forbidden romance
-cowboy romance
-sisters ex boyfriend
-small town holiday romance
-mistaken identity
-opposites attract
-“we should probably stop”
-virgin mc

yessssssss like FINALLYYYY we got this juicy juicy story!! & DAAAYYYUUMMM boys! yall are filthy!!

Bouquets & Buckles
Lucas + Skylar

-forbidden romance
-cowboy romance
-best friends dad
-horse daddy
-whiskey play

this book had NO BUSINESSS being this dirty & kinky for how quick it flew by meeee!! gahhh they were so good together & i love how supportive the bestie was!! this world is just perfect!!

[Felicia · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

I love that this has two of the novellas in one book and they stories are with the same characters. The first book is Brad and Flinn’s story and the second one is Skylar and Lucas’ story. Both were such great reads. I think I liked Brad & Flinn a tad more but each were amazing. I really enjoyed Brad & Flinn’s chemistry and how both of them were the “all in” type from the get go. They were so sweet and perfect for eachother!!

[cindysbookshelf · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW

I loved being back in Crimson Ridge! Especially fort the holiday season! This book features two stories: Saddles and Snowfall & Bouquets and Buckles. Both of these stories are the perfect blend of cozy holiday vibes, swoony romance and all the cowboy goodness! I both of them so much and I cannot wait to add this one to my Crimson Ridge collection!

Thank you Kensington for the advanced review copy!

[Konstantina Sgolombis · Rating 5 out of 5]

🎄🤠 **A CRIMSON RIDGE CHRISTMAS** ❤️

⭐ **5/5 Stars | Cozy, Cowboy Christmas Perfection**
🌶️ **Spice Rating: 5/5 — Five Alarm Fire!** 🔥

Who wants a cowboy? 🤠 Actually, scratch that. **Who DOESN'T want a cowboy?!** And while we're at it, why settle for one when you can have THREE? 👀🔥

I was lucky enough to receive an **Advanced Reader Copy (ARC)** of *A Crimson Ridge Christmas*, and let me just say, what an absolute TREAT it was! Getting to experience these stories early made me feel like Christmas had come ahead of schedule, and I couldn't have asked for a better way to kick off the holiday reading season. 🎁❤️

These novellas wrapped me up in the warmest, fuzziest Christmas feelings while simultaneously turning up the heat. And honestly? Isn't that the perfect combination? A little holiday magic, a whole lot of cowboy charm, and enough spice to melt the snow right off the mountains. 🥵❄️

But wait... is it too early to be getting into the Christmas spirit when we're still in spooky season? **Absolutely NOT.** Halloween can have its pumpkins, but I'm already dreaming of Christmas lights, cozy cabins, and cowboys under the mistletoe. 🎄💋

What truly made these stories special, though, was how much I connected with the characters and their individual journeys.

As someone who is very much an introvert and would happily disappear into the comfort of my own little world to escape the chaos, I saw so much of myself in Finn and Lucas. There's something incredibly comforting about characters who remind us that we don't always have to be the loudest person in the room to be understood.

And Skylar? Oh, she had a special place in my heart. While I may not be short, I absolutely understand what it feels like to be a curvy woman navigating a world that isn't always kind to those who don't fit its narrow definition of beauty. Seeing a character like her reminded me just how meaningful it is to feel represented, celebrated, and loved exactly as you are. ❤️

**And then there's BRAD.** 😂

This man had me absolutely CACKLING at his antics. He's that wonderfully chaotic, larger-than-life friend we all need. The one who can make you laugh until your stomach hurts, even on the days you didn't realize how badly you needed a smile.

And I mean... **DICK COOKIES, ANYONE?!** 👀🍪🤣

IYKYK.

Between the heartfelt moments, hilarious banter, swoon-worthy cowboys, and deliciously steamy encounters, these novellas delivered everything I could possibly want from a holiday romance.

By the time I turned the final page, I was ready to pack my bags, throw on my cutest boots, and book a one-way ticket to Crimson Ridge. If only it were a real place, because I would be there in a heartbeat.

**Five stars. Five spicy peppers. Three cowboys. And one very happy reader.** 🤠❤️🌶️

Crimson Ridge, you've officially stolen my heart.

🎄 **Final Rating:** ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️ **Spice Meter:** 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

**🗝️ Tropes & Vibes:**
- 🤠 Swoon-Worthy Cowboys
- 🎄 Small-Town Christmas Romance
- ❤️ Cozy Holiday Magic
- 🔥 Steamy Romance
- 🫶 Body Positivity & Self-Acceptance
- 😂 Hilarious Banter & Found Connections
- 🥹 Heartwarming Character Journeys

**Who needs a white Christmas when you can have a Crimson Ridge Christmas?** 😉🎄

*💌 ARC Disclosure: I was fortunate enough to receive an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions expressed are entirely my own.*

[Brennan · Rating 4.5 out of 5]

Two fantastic Taboo Christmas Cowboy romances in one! Yes, please!! Thank you to Goodreads, Kensington and author Elliott rose for sending me physical ARC copy of this book. I had listened to Bouquets and Buckles last year since the novella was included as a bonus at the end of Chasing the Wild and I enjoyed it then but it is even better when read right after Saddles and Snowfall.
Saddles and Snowfall follows Brad in his last few days at college before moving home to Crimson Ridge to start work with his dad on their family ranch. When he has a drunk hook up at a party, the last thing he expects is for the guy to be the brother of the very recently ex-girlfriend who Brad had found out was cheating on him all year. Flinn can’t believe he finally has met a guy he can’t stop thinking about only to have him be his obnoxious sister’s ex. And then they get snowed in!
Bouquets and Buckles follows Brad’s long time bestie Sky who ends up stranded on Christmas Eve in Crimson Ridge when she finds out her boyfriend is cheating on her and the only person she can call for help is Luke, Brad’s super hot cowboy dad who she has had a crush on on for years! Turns out that Luke has been thinking about her for the past year since he realized his son’s friend had grown into a fascinating woman. And then they get snowed in!
Is there such thing as too many stories set in a small Montana mountain town where hot cowboys are absolutely not supposed to be with scrappy younger woman/ex-girlfriend’s brothers or their own step brothers but circumstances (often consisting of a crappy ex and a LOT of snow) throw them together? According to me, Elliott Rose and apparently the bi-laws of Crimson Ridge - the answer is no! Are the stories a bit similar - yes and I don’t care! The difference is all in the gloriously romantic and smutty details and the whole series is one of my absolute favorites.
S&S is such a sweet MM romance. Brad is the perfect sunshine boy who lights up every room he is in. Flinn is all quiet strength and kind gestures. They are so perfect together and totally hot. Loved getting to watch Flinn come out of his shell and Brad get the love he deserves!
B&B is a the perfect age gap story, especially since I prefer the young woman to be an adult who is NOT actually looking for a father figure (yuck) but a Daddy in the hottest sense of the word - meaning a man with experience and wisdom that is irresistible. Luke has a fantastically filthy mouth and such a big heart that has been waisting away all alone on his ranch.
Since both of these books are novellas, they do tend to rush right into both the spice and the HEA - so if you aren’t a fan of instant-love/lust tropes, this may not be fore you. But I enjoyed every minute and can’t wait to catch a glimpse of these characters back in Crimson Ridge now that we have the Hayes Brothers books to look forward to.

[Natalie Jardin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Crimson Ridge Christmas
Thank you, Smuthood and Elliot Rose for an Early copy of the book.
Full disclosure i have not read any of the other books in the series. This book is 2 novellas in the same universe as Crimson Ridge Cowboy Series. Usually, with a book with multiple stories, I review them individually.

Saddles & Snowfall- 4 stars, 3.75/5 spice
This story is an MM romance between two cowboys. Brad is a sassy college student who just graduated and broke up with his gf after a few months of dating. Flinn is the brother of the ex who came to the college to help his sister move back home. I loved these two together! They had sweet moments, and the yearning! I will say that its about 65% spice and it starts pretty quick. Almost instalust but the couple also has great chemistry and they learn a bit about each other outside of the physical attraction aspect.
As for whether you can read this one without reading the rest of the series... I would say yes. I do think interconnected series should be read in the order the author intended but I don't think i missed anything or was lost while reading this story. There were a few parts in the story that seemed to focus on a spicy scene instead of furthering the plot which I didn't like as much; hence the 4-star rating.

Bouquets & Buckles- 4 stars, 4/5 spice
This story is an MF age-gap romance between an older cowboy and his son's best friend. Warning: he has known her since she was in HS with his son! Skylar was featured in Saddles and Snowfall, as was Lucas, as Lucas is the father of Brad. Skylar had a boyfriend at the beginning of this book and was heading over to his house to surprise him for Christmas. Sadly, he surprised her by cheating on Christmas Eve! As she tried to leave, she discovered that she had a flat tire, so she called for help. Sadly she misdialed and ended up calling her bestie's hot cowboy dad(whom she has had a crush on since HS). Turns out he also has a crush on her but "thankfully" it only started a year ago when he noticed how mature she has gotten. They mutually admit they want each other once he sees her sexy outfit that she wore for her (ex?)boyfriend, but only while they are snowed in. It was good writing because I actually liked the spice and story but the author does repeatedly remind us that he has known her since she was a teen and she is his son's best friend. There is a lot of spice and it was honestly getting annoying because it wasn't showing the connection/chemistry between the characters until most of the way thru the story. The ending however was extremely sweet and the yearning in the last half was great!

[Angela · Rating 4.25 out of 5]

Oh so you thought you loved Crimson Ridge before?! Well how about throwing not one but TWO spicy little Christmas novellas into the mix to keep you warm this Christmas?!

For some, Bouquets and Buckles will be a re-release with it getting its trad-published moment! But if its new to you, well you not only get that book but you also get Brad & Flinn's story in the form of Saddles and Snowfall.

Overall with these two books combined my rating is 4.25 ⭐️. But check out my reviews below for each book to see what I thought of them individually. Also big shoutout to Elliott and The Smuthood team for sending me an early copy to review!


Saddles & Snowfall:

Did someone say Christmas in October? Well when it involves two hot cowboys being snowed in together, you really can't complain.

I have been eagerly awaiting Brad & Flinn's book since they first made an appearance in earlier Crimson Ridge books, and they did not disappoint. It was fast paced, so damn hot, yet it had a lot of cute moments too. These two were the biggest hopeless romantics and got deep in their feels real quick. They had that instant kind of connection. And goddamn that meet cute will have you 🥵🔥

Oh and did I mention that this one involved ex's brother and slutty glasses??! 🤭 If that ain't enough to draw you in, I don't know what else would.

Overall this one was a 4 ⭐️ read for me. It was a fun little novella to read and of course I would take any excuse to be back in Crimson Ridge.

Thank you to Elliott and The Smuthood for sending me an early copy of this to review!!


Bouquets Buckles:

I read this book back when it was an indie release, and I gotta say, its still as good as I remember! I will always love the Crimson Ridge world, so being back in this world with some hot, steamt, swoony, small town, cowboy romances, is honestly the way to go.

"It's Christmas, don't they say wishes come true?"

I've said it once before and I'll say it again, the only thing I'm sad about is that their story wasn't longer, because my oh my, Daddy Lucas Rhodes is a vibe. And Lucas & Skylar just work so well as a couple. They have that instant connection but also just work so effortlessly together.

"Unwrap me, unravel me, whatever he wants, it's his."

This is like a dirty version of a hallmark movie, squashed into a novella. After catching her boyfriend cheating, stranded with a flat tyre and a snow storm about to hit, dialing her best friends Dad instead of her best friend quickly turns into the ultimate Christmas wish for Skylar.

Not only did we get spice on spice on spice, but we were also given the best HEA, bonus chapters and epilogues to enjoy as well.

If you are looking for a quick, spicy, easy to read Christmas novella, then absolutely jump on this one. A 4.5 ⭐️ read for me. But honestly, this series is quickly making me want to go visit a ranch and find myself a cowboy 🤭🤠

[Bobbie Mindus · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crimson Ridge Christmas was a **spectacular read!** From page one, this novella pulled me in and kept me hooked until the very end.

Saddles & Snowflakes

Flinn and Brad are absolutely **meant to be**. Their chance meeting immediately sparks some serious heat, but when Brad discovers what they have in common, it throws a bit of a curveball into their story. Don’t worry, though—they find their way through it all!

This book had me **laughing out loud**, especially at some of the things Brad would say. To say these two were a perfect match doesn’t even feel like enough. The sneaking around, longing looks, undeniable chemistry, and spice were all spot on!

Add in a little **Christmas magic**, and you have another Elliott Rose hit! 🎄❤️🔥

Bouquets & Buckles

I LOVE me a good age-gap, forbidden cowboy romance, and this one did not disappoint! 🤠🔥

Skylar is in town for the holidays when she gets stranded on the side of the road with a flat tire and accidentally calls her BFF Brad’s dad by mistake. Enter Lucas, the dirty-talking cowboy who comes to her rescue—and somehow, she ends up spending the holidays with him.

Skylar has always had a crush on Lucas, but she never acted on it. Lucas, for his part, never sexualized Skylar when she was younger, which made the chemistry between them now that she’s grown even better. But when they find themselves snowed in together…well, what do you think happens? 😏🔥

Buckle up, because this cowboy knows exactly what he’s doing!

And, as with all of Elliott Rose’s books, this one is **SPICY!** 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This may be a novella, but it absolutely packs a punch! It’s the perfect quick, steamy holiday read with plenty of chemistry, tension, and a cowboy who will have you fanning yourself. 🤠🔥

If you love age gaps, forbidden romance, snowed-in forced proximity, dirty-talking cowboys, and ALL the spice, definitely add this one to your TBR!

If you’re looking for a spicy holiday read with chemistry, humor, longing, and all the Christmas vibes, you’ll definitely want to add this one to your **TBR and shopping carts!**

I had the pleasure of reading *A Crimson Ridge Christmas* as a **voluntary ARC** from Elliott Rose and Smuthood. Thank you for the opportunity to participate in this outstanding read! ❤️

[Aimee · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Elliott Rose, Kensington, and Smuthood for providing me with an arc of A Crimson Ridge Christmas.

Saddles & Snowfall :

Saddles & Snowfall is a new christmas novella set in the world of Crimson Ridge following Brad Rhodes, the son of Lucas Rhodes and best friend of Skylar Addams and his romance with his ex girlfriend’s brother. When Brad learns that his ex-girlfriend had been cheating on him the entire time, he decides he wants to let lose and hook up with someone at a holiday party. Little did he know the man he hooked up with happened to be his ex-girlfriend’s brother Flinn and now neither of them can get each other out of their thoughts.

As with all of the books in this series, this is a taboo spicy as hell romance. Forbidden romance, snowed in together, slutty glasses and so much more this is the perfect addition to this series.


Bouquets & Buckles :

I have loved every book in the Crimson Ridge series as they each are taboo spicy as hell cowboy romances. They have fantastic spice and overall I love all of these characters dearly. This one is a novella set in the same world and can be read as a standalone. It is a best friends dad romance plus snowed in together.

Skylar’s plan to surprise her boyfriend with a visit back to her home in Crimson Ridge went horribly wrong when she catches him cheating and then ends up with a flat tire stranded with a snowstorm coming. When she accidentally calls her long time cowboy crush and her best friend’s father instead of her best friend, he ends up saving her and they end up snowed in together. But when the tension comes to a boiling point and there is no where to go maybe the feelings aren’t one sided.

The tension in this one was faster than the others in the series due to its length but it worked just as well. This one gets to the point pretty fast and it was a great time. I loved Skylar and Lucas together and felt like the age gap and everything taboo about their relationship was handled well.

These are great holiday novellas that are short and quick to read. I can’t wait for whatever Elliott Rose writes next.

[Brittney · Rating 5 out of 5]

A Crimson Ridge Christmas • Elliott Rose

One phrase: two cheating exes, two forbidden romances, and absolutely ZERO Christmas innocence 🎄🔥

ELLIOTT ROSE DOES NOT BELIEVE IN A SILENT NIGHT.

Two holiday novellas. Two cheating exes. A snowstorm. A drunken threesome. And cowboys who apparently cannot keep their hands to themselves.

MERRY FUCKING CHRISTMAS. 🤠

🎁 Bouquets & Buckles

Skylar catches her boyfriend cheating, accidentally calls her longtime crush for help, and ends up snowed in with him.

Sounds adorable, right?

EXCEPT HE'S HER BEST FRIEND'S DAD.

Lucas is older, grumpy, protective, and has a filthy mouth. Naturally, I was obsessed. The forbidden tension, sneaking around, and ridiculous chemistry made this such a fun little holiday escape.

❄️ Saddles & Snowfall

Brad discovers his girlfriend has been cheating, gets drunk at a Christmas party, and ends up in a threesome with someone he REALLY shouldn't be touching.

His ex's brother, Flinn.

SIR. 💀

I loved these two! Brad's confident, dirty talking energy paired with Flinn's sweetness and inexperience was such a good combination. Their chemistry was immediate, but the genuinely affectionate moments were what sold me.

Both novellas were quick, spicy, and packed with the kind of questionable decisions I expect from Crimson Ridge.

✨ Tropes and vibes:

🤠 Filthy mouthed cowboys
🎄 Spicy Christmas romance
🔥 Forbidden relationships
👀 Best friend's dad
🖤 Ex-girlfriend's brother
💋 MM romance
❄️ Snowed in together
🥵 Age gap and daddy vibes
🍸 Drunken threesome
😈 Praise and dirty talk

📚 Read this if you like:

Forbidden cowboy romances, age gaps, MM romance, filthy dirty talk, snowed-in ranches, holiday hookups, ridiculous chemistry, and Christmas stories that are absolutely NOT appropriate for the family book club.

Elliott Rose really looked at Christmas and said, "What if we made it significantly sluttier?"

And you know what?

God bless us, every one. 🎄

#ACrimsonRidgeChristmas #ElliottRose #CowboyRomance #ForbiddenRomance #BookReview

[Jasmin · Rating 5 out of 5]

TWO SPICY COWBOY CHRISTMAS ROMANCES?!? SAY LESS. 🤠🔥🎄

I absolutely LOVED A Crimson Ridge Christmas! Give me cowboys, forbidden romances, holiday chaos, and enough spice to melt the snow, and I’m SAT. 🥵❤️ These two novellas were so much fun, and I had the BEST time reading them! Elliott Rose really said MERRY CHRISTMAS, HERE ARE SOME HOT COWBOYS, and I said THANK YOU, MA’AM. 🫡🎅🏻🔥

🤎 Saddles & Snowfall
BRAD AND FLINN, I’M OBSESSED WITH YOU TWO. 😭❤️ THE WAY THESE MEN WERE SO DOWN BAD FOR EACH OTHER?!? PLEASE. I was kicking my feet, giggling, and smiling like an absolute FOOL. Their chemistry was EVERYTHING, the banter had me grinning, and THE SPICE??? 🥵🔥 Let’s just say it DELIVERED. I loved how they couldn’t stand being away from each other. Like, hello??? GET A ROOM! Actually, never mind. CARRY ON. 😂 These two had me in a chokehold, and I simply wasn’t ready to let them go!

🎄 Bouquets & Buckles
DADDY LUCAS. THAT’S IT. THAT’S THE REVIEW. 🥵🤠🔥

Okay, but seriously, I LOVE an age-gap romance, and this one absolutely DELIVERED. Lucas and Skylar had me SWOONING! The chemistry? INSANE. The banter? SO GOOD. THE SPICE? THE SPICE WAS SPICINGGGG. 🥵🔥 I was EATING THIS UP! The tension between these two had me kicking my feet and grinning at my phone like I had absolutely NO business doing so. 😂❤️ I loved their dynamic, and I was HERE for every second of it!

❤️ OVERALL
I had SO MUCH FUN reading A Crimson Ridge Christmas! Two novellas, two couples, double the cowboy goodness, and enough spice to keep me warm all winter long. 🤠🔥🎄 These stories gave me chemistry, tension, swoony moments, and all the holiday chaos I could ask for. Honestly, WHAT MORE COULD A GIRL WANT?!

If you love spicy cowboy romances, forbidden relationships, and couples who are absolutely DOWN BAD for each other, PLEASE ADD THIS TO YOUR TBR. You can thank me later. 😉❤️

Thank you, Elliott Rose and The Smuthood, for the ARC and the opportunity to read and review this book! ❤️📚

[Books Spice N Everything Nice · Rating 4 out of 5]

Appreciation: 4⭐️
Spice: 4🌶️— High spice

🍆MM and MF — Romance
📚Standalone (Books 2.5 and 4.5 in the interconnected Crimson Ridge series)
✏️First person — Dual POV

❤️Main tropes: Small town • Cowboy • Forbidden romance

I was so excited to be part of the ARC team for this book! It’s actually a combination of two holiday novellas: the new Saddles & Snowfall, a steamy ex’s-brother MM romance, and Bouquets & Buckles a very spicy age-gap MF romance.

If you’re already familiar with the Crimson Ridge world, you’ll no doubt enjoy this book. It has everything we like about Elliott Rose’s writing: it’s smooth, very steamy, the characters have personality and it has all the good-feel ranch vibes, plus that snowed-in-so-stuck-together forced proximity.

Saddles & Snowfall was by far my favourite of the two, but at this point it’s no longer a secret that I have a thing for MM romance. Aside from that, though, this story is honesty very good, I ate it right up. I fell hard for Brad and Flinn; they’re both such thoughtful sweethearts and they totally made me melt. The forbidden aspect of their relationship created just the right little touch of angst and the spice was well balanced with the story.

Bouquets & Buckles is also a forbidden romance, as it’s Lucas, Brad’s dad, falling for Skylar, Brad’s longtime best friend. I liked this story because I always enjoy a good steamy age-gap romance with daddy vibes, especially when it’s a 15-20 year gap, but at some point, the spice became a bit too much for me. I kinda lost the romantic feel for a while, and I found myself wanting to skip ahead. I mean, I was happy for them, but I wish we had gotten more romantic scenes showing us their connection beyond the sex.

I really had a good time reading both stories, and it was great to reconnect with Crimson Ridge. If you like sexy cowboys, lots of spice, holiday vibes, and some good forbidden romance, this book’s for you!

[yueting ♡ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Giddy-up! I love returning to Elliott Rose's steamy, romantic world of Crimson Ridge. And it was such a treat to get to see characters that we are familiar with from the main series get their own HEA. This book contains two quick-hit, sexy novellas where the spice and love come in hot. Snow storms and electric attraction conspire for these two couples to cozy up over Christmas as the sparks fly and their feelings grow.

Brad and Flinn's meet-cute is a filthy and fun misunderstanding. I loved seeing the backstory of how these two met, though I felt like their initial draw to be a bit too inexplicably strong. As chance kept bringing these two strangers together, it was clear that they had chemistry, but I would have liked a bit more time spent on their emotional connection and conversations of them getting to know each other as they started falling in love.

Lucas and Sky's pairing leans more heavily into the forbidden romance tension that Elliott is so good at writing. Her dirty talk is always the best, and Lucas did not disappoint! I really enjoyed the push-and-pull between these two and felt they had a bit more of a familiarity and emotional connection to ground the heat and attraction.

This book is definitely more of what we love from Elliott, and a big recommendation for Crimson Ridge fans who want a mini dose of her filth and spice and heart. It's also a great transition read before we get into her upcoming release, Drawn Under, that takes us to the neighboring Hayes Ranch! For new readers of the series, I highly recommend reading the main books, at least one or two, before dipping into this one.

﹙ 3.5 ☆ ﹚

— Thank you Kensington and Smuthood PR for the E-ARC!

[Amanda Schumacher · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to Kensington Publishing and Elliott Rose for this review copy! I absolutely loved this! Two shorter stories that are spicy, funny and just soooo good.

Saddles & Snowfall

Brad. & Flinn's story is crazy and absolutely full of giggles. Brad is at a party after he's graduated and just waiting for his best friend Sky, to finish her last final before everyone heads off for the winter. He is told to go wait in a room upstairs by a girl while she gets someone to join them. Flinn walks in and Brad attacks him by starting some sexy shenanigans. Turns out, Flinn is Brad's ex girlfriend's brother. The sneaking around, cloak and dagger hiding is funny and soo good. They're so funny together and brad is head over heels for Flinn's "slutty little glasses" that he wears. They get snowed in together after Flinn rescues Brad from trying to walk all the way home after the yule ball they were both at. it's sooo good.

Bouquets & Buckles

Skylar & Lucas is a spicy fantasy between a best friends' dad, age gap fun. Skylar is Brads' best friend and has known him since they were kids. Skylar used to go spend summers hanging with Brad. She also has had a crush on him. She tries to surprise her boyfriend by showing up in town, just to find out he's been cheating on her. Lucas, Brads dad, comes to rescue her when she accidentally calls him instead of Brad. Brad and Flinn had gone to Flinns family house for Christmas. This gives Skylar and Lucas time to be alone on the ranch by themselves before Brad and Flinn return. Oh the giggles while they're trying to hide everything!!


This is soo good and a very much must read in the crimson ridge world that Elliott Rose has created!! HIGHLY recommend!

[Karen Chan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Well Ms Rose you've done it again, set the pages on fire. Returning to Crimson Ridge we find Brad from the Rhodes Ranch in Crimson Ridge at a party where he wants one last night of fun at college. Waiting for a couple to join him Flinn walks in and Brad shows him a good time only to find out he's his ex girlfriend's brother.
Running away Brad spends time missing the cowboy he can't stop thinking about.
Later when Flinn has realised Brad is walking home in a snow storm inebriated. Finding themselves snowed in their chemistry erupts and neither want to leave but they have to leave. Brad sad for not only leaving Flinn but Lucy the cat he's been feeding.
Back on the ranch for Christmas, Brad is pining for the cowboy he left only to find him on the doorstep with a very special gift.
The yearning between this pair is so good it envelops you and has you wanting this pair to get their HEA and Ms Rose does not disappoint. A great MM romance for Christmas.
The second tale is Skylar Brad best friend who finds herself misdialling to Brad's dad when she wants to surprise her boyfriend only to have a shocking surprise herself.
Lucas Rhodes tries to understand his son's best friend's sobbing tale, and manages to say he will come and find her in the snow storm.
The attraction between this age-gap pair is magnetic and burns through the pages. It only stops when Brad and Flinn now a confirmed couple, arrive back from Flinn's parents.
Brad manages to work out why his dad is moping and manages to get them back together for an all around HEA in Crimson Ridge.
I received this ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Kristin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Apparently, one steamy cowboy Christmas book wasn’t enough… because we were EXTRA good this year and Elliott Rose decided to gift us TWO. And honestly? Who am I to question Santa’s decisions?

The first story follows Brad, who has just broken up with his girlfriend and decides there’s no better way to find himself than by finding a hot cowboy to hook up with. Seems simple enough, right? WRONG. When Brad gets propositioned with a ménage, things take a VERY unexpected turn when he accidentally ends up hooking up with his ex’s gay brother.

Now we have to watch these two navigate their unexpected attraction, complicated history, and all the feelings that come along with it. Because apparently Christmas in Crimson Ridge comes with a whole lot more than mistletoe.

Then we get Brad’s dad’s story and let me just say… the older cowboy is getting his Christmas present too. After years of being alone, there’s finally one woman who has caught his attention—Skylar, his son’s best friend. And the best part? Skylar has been crushing on the hot dad for quite some time herself. After getting stranded and accidentally calling the wrong number—or perhaps the exact right one—Skylar ends up snowed in with Brad’s dad.

Forced proximity? Check.
Forbidden attraction? Check.
A serious age gap? Check.
First times? Check.
Tension you could cut with a knife? DOUBLE CHECK.

Elliott Rose really said, “Merry Christmas, here’s TWO cowboy romances,” and honestly… thank you for your service.

So, make sure you stay on Santa’s good list this year because you’re definitely going to want to ask him to bring you a copy of A Crimson Ridge Christmas.

[Stacey Reads x · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW - Thank you Smuthood & Elliott 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

God I LOVE being in Crimson Ridge. It is one of my favorite small cowboy towns 🤠

What’s better than 1 cowboy book ? 2 cowboy books that’s what !! I absolutely love that this book includes two Christmas theme novellas.

First up with have Saddles & Snowfall.

"You're my sunshine boy. You're the bright glow I forever want to tilt my head to and follow wherever you might lead. When I'm with you, it's like being in the saddle and letting your horse fly. This is 'wind in your hair, cheeks hurting from laughing so hard, warm sun-kissed skin' kind of love, baby” 🥺

An MM romance between Brad and Flinn. This is an ex girlfriend’s brother storyline. Their story has emotion, chemistry, spice and laughs.
I love these two. They made me feel so happy.

This was a 5🌟 spicy 🌶️ novella for me !


Then we move onto Bouquets and Buckles.
Now this was a re read for me. I had read this back when I first read the Crimson Ridge series and let me tell you reading this a second time round made me realise just how much I LOVE an age gap storyline.

This novella follows Skylar and Lucas (Brads best friend and dad !). Now when I tell you the spice in this storyline had me blushing 🥵🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ A certain Whiskey scene. Wow !!

The love these two have for each other is unmatched. Skyla has been crushing on brads dad for years and when she finally gets her man - fireworks !!


You can always guarantee that a story by Elliott Rose is going to be a fantastic ride. She never disappoints.

Highly recommend this gorgeous book.
It’s 2 in 1 - what’s not to like !!

[Monelle · Rating 3.5 out of 5]

First of all, I was lucky enough to win an ARC of this through a Goodreads giveaway, so thank you so much for the opportunity to read it early! 🥹🎄

One thing about Elliott Rose—she’s going to find a taboo/forbidden relationship and have me questioning why I’m rooting for it. 😂 And this little holiday collection was no exception.

I’d actually already read Bouquets & Buckles last year, but it was fun jumping back into that story again. Because really, what says Christmas quite like… falling for your best friend’s dad? 😂🎄 Nothing more wholesome and festive than that!

But I was especially excited for Saddles & Snowfall because BRAD AND FLINN?! Those two cowboys have my whole heart. 😭🤠

They were absolutely obsessed with each other basically from the JUMP and quite literally could not keep their hands off one another. 😂 Was it lust at first sight? Oh, absolutely. But the chemistry was CHEMISTRYING, and the pining once feelings got involved was delicious. There was something so fun about watching two men who clearly wanted each other desperately try to navigate everything standing in their way.

My biggest complaint with both stories is honestly that I wanted MORE. 😭 Because they’re so short, some of the romantic development felt rushed. I would’ve loved a little more time with both couples to let the relationships breathe and really build that emotional connection alongside all that attraction.

Especially Brad and Flinn because excuse me??? I was not finished with my cowboys yet. 😂

Overall, though, this was a fun, spicy little trip back to Crimson Ridge with exactly the kind of questionable forbidden relationships I’ve come to expect from Elliott Rose. 😂🎄🤠

[Victoria Blusiewicz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to The Smuthood for an ARC of Crimson Ridge Christmas!


Saddles & Snowfall:

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍒🍒🍒

Falling for your sister’s ex boyfriend is probably not a good thing. Some would even say it’s taboo. But Elliott Rose makes it feel like it’s just another normal relationship and that’s what I love about her writing.

Brad and Flinn meet at a college party right before the end of the semester, and neither knows who the other is. Until Flinn realizes that Brad isn’t there to hook up with his cheating ex-girlfriend, Flinn is his sister!

What ensues is what feels like forbidden, instant lust.

Oh my god. I was NOT expecting that plot twist! Izzie is seriously the worst and I cannot believe she treated Brad the way she did. That plot twist absolutely paved the way for Brad and Flinn to be together.

For a split second it was awkward when Flinn let Izzie know that he and Brad are together, but her behavior and who she is as a person in general make you get over it realy fast! Flinn is so perfect for Brad and exactly what he deserves, and I’m so glad he fought for him!


Bouquets and Buckles:

⭐⭐⭐⭐
🍒🍒🍒

Skylar and Lucas for the win! This story ended way too quickly. Lucas has the filthiest mouth and I am so here for it. I just loved how protective he is of Skylar and how much he wants to take care of her. But I think that feeling is mutual!

It didn’t feel that weird that Skylar is best friends with Lucas’ son, Brad. Which is a testament to how well Elliott Rose writes taboo topics! I was rooting for these two from the start and the ending was definitely swoon worthy! I’m glad they didn’t let go of what they had!