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Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley
Hunter Chase is in for the shock of his life, when he finds out in the reading of his late father’s will that he must marry by Christmas Eve or lose his position as CEO of Everpine Investment Enterprises. Big problem, Hunter doesn’t have a girlfriend or any prospects. With no other options, he enlists his long-time best friend, Katelyn, to help him find a wife. Too bad Katelyn has secretly been in love with Hunter for years. Reluctantly, Katelyn sets Hunter up on dates with potential wives. Between many awkward dates and jealous encounters, their friendship hangs in the balance. As Christmas Eve gets closer, it becomes harder to pretend their connection is anything but love. Hunter must finally decide what matters most, saving the family business or possibly losing the one who’s been there all along.
173 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 29, 2026
About the author
Emi Hilton
9 books75 followersEmi Hilton is a California native who was born at March Airforce Base, while her father was an Officer in the US Army Combat Engineer Battalion. An English Professor for a mother, Emi followed in her footsteps and graduated from Brigham Young University in English. While in college, she took a year and a half break from her studies to serve as a full-time missionary for her church in the Canary Islands. Emi writes sweet contemporary romance novels. Her debut novel, Memories in Morro Bay, and second novel, Bluebird Sky, were nominated for Whitney Awards. Her novel, Picking Pismo, won the Christlit Book Award. When Emi isn’t writing, she enjoys training for marathons, fishing off local piers with her husband and three sons, or visiting her other love, Spain.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
October 10, 2026
Right, so apparently Christmas wasn’t stressful enough already because Hunter needs to get MARRIED BY CHRISTMAS EVE. Not meet someone. Not date someone. Not even exchange a few messages and see if you both like the same pizza toppings. No. MARRIED. Babe, I can put something somewhere “safe” and lose it for six months, and he's expected to find an entire WIFE before Santa gets his reindeer out. Naturally I was in.
And then there’s Katelyn. Katelyn. His best friend. The woman who knows him, loves him and is standing RIGHT BLOODY THERE while this man is apparently scanning the horizon for his future wife like she’s arriving via Australia Post.
Hunter, mate.
YOUR PACKAGE HAS ALREADY BEEN DELIVERED.
Honestly, watching him was like losing your phone while you’re holding it, except Hunter has checked under the couch, emptied his pockets, accused someone else of moving it, and is now considering buying a replacement.
Meanwhile, Katelyn is basically ringing in his hand.
And THIS is where I had the most fun because once their nice, safe friendship starts developing little feelings-shaped cracks, things get wonderfully stupid. Jealousy arrives, and Hunter is basically, Hmm. Why do I suddenly want that bloke standing near Katelyn to relocate to another postcode? Weird.
Yes, darling.
VERY MYSTERIOUS.
Perhaps we should form a committee.
I loved watching those feelings sneak out while these two were still pretending friendship had everything under control. It did not. Friendship had lost control of the vehicle, feelings were driving, jealousy had climbed into the passenger seat, and I was in the back yelling FASTER, YOU COWARDS.
And this is where I’m hovering between 3.5 and 4 stars, because I was having a bloody good time. I just wanted MORE of that delicious emotional stupidity. Let it simmer. Give me more yearning, more jealousy, more tiny moments suddenly meaning something completely different. Let Hunter’s brain spend longer desperately trying to install the KATELYN IS THE WOMAN YOU LOVE update while repeatedly getting the little spinning circle of doom.
Installing romantic awareness...
2%.
7%.
HUNTER, FOR THE LOVE OF TINSEL, HAVE YOU TRIED TURNING YOURSELF OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN?
I wanted my romance gremlin sitting upright with snacks, yelling HE’S GETTING IT. HE’S FINALLY BLOODY GETTING IT.
She got close.
There was movement towards the curtains.
One foot definitely left the floor.
But we didn’t quite achieve full curtain-climbing conditions.
So, 3.5 to 4 stars for cute, cosy, ridiculous Christmas fun with friends-to-lovers, delicious jealousy and one spectacularly oblivious man whose romantic Wi-Fi had full bars but somehow NO INTERNET CONNECTION.
Honestly, Katelyn could have been standing directly in front of him wearing Christmas lights, holding mistletoe and the bloody Wi-Fi router while screaming HUNTER, I AM THE PASSWORD, and this man would still be staring at the little spinning circle going:
Hmm.
Must be an outage.
NO, HUNTER.
THERE IS NO OUTAGE.
THE ROUTER IS FINE.
THE SIGNAL IS STRONG.
KATELYN HAS BEEN CONNECTED THIS ENTIRE TIME.
YOU ARE THE TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY.
At this point, unplug the man from the wall, count to ten, and plug him back in. If that doesn’t work, whack a bow on him, put him under the Christmas tree, and let Katelyn deal with him.
I HAVE EXHAUSTED TECHNICAL SUPPORT.
And then there’s Katelyn. Katelyn. His best friend. The woman who knows him, loves him and is standing RIGHT BLOODY THERE while this man is apparently scanning the horizon for his future wife like she’s arriving via Australia Post.
Hunter, mate.
YOUR PACKAGE HAS ALREADY BEEN DELIVERED.
Honestly, watching him was like losing your phone while you’re holding it, except Hunter has checked under the couch, emptied his pockets, accused someone else of moving it, and is now considering buying a replacement.
Meanwhile, Katelyn is basically ringing in his hand.
And THIS is where I had the most fun because once their nice, safe friendship starts developing little feelings-shaped cracks, things get wonderfully stupid. Jealousy arrives, and Hunter is basically, Hmm. Why do I suddenly want that bloke standing near Katelyn to relocate to another postcode? Weird.
Yes, darling.
VERY MYSTERIOUS.
Perhaps we should form a committee.
I loved watching those feelings sneak out while these two were still pretending friendship had everything under control. It did not. Friendship had lost control of the vehicle, feelings were driving, jealousy had climbed into the passenger seat, and I was in the back yelling FASTER, YOU COWARDS.
And this is where I’m hovering between 3.5 and 4 stars, because I was having a bloody good time. I just wanted MORE of that delicious emotional stupidity. Let it simmer. Give me more yearning, more jealousy, more tiny moments suddenly meaning something completely different. Let Hunter’s brain spend longer desperately trying to install the KATELYN IS THE WOMAN YOU LOVE update while repeatedly getting the little spinning circle of doom.
Installing romantic awareness...
2%.
7%.
HUNTER, FOR THE LOVE OF TINSEL, HAVE YOU TRIED TURNING YOURSELF OFF AND BACK ON AGAIN?
I wanted my romance gremlin sitting upright with snacks, yelling HE’S GETTING IT. HE’S FINALLY BLOODY GETTING IT.
She got close.
There was movement towards the curtains.
One foot definitely left the floor.
But we didn’t quite achieve full curtain-climbing conditions.
So, 3.5 to 4 stars for cute, cosy, ridiculous Christmas fun with friends-to-lovers, delicious jealousy and one spectacularly oblivious man whose romantic Wi-Fi had full bars but somehow NO INTERNET CONNECTION.
Honestly, Katelyn could have been standing directly in front of him wearing Christmas lights, holding mistletoe and the bloody Wi-Fi router while screaming HUNTER, I AM THE PASSWORD, and this man would still be staring at the little spinning circle going:
Hmm.
Must be an outage.
NO, HUNTER.
THERE IS NO OUTAGE.
THE ROUTER IS FINE.
THE SIGNAL IS STRONG.
KATELYN HAS BEEN CONNECTED THIS ENTIRE TIME.
YOU ARE THE TECHNICAL DIFFICULTY.
At this point, unplug the man from the wall, count to ten, and plug him back in. If that doesn’t work, whack a bow on him, put him under the Christmas tree, and let Katelyn deal with him.
I HAVE EXHAUSTED TECHNICAL SUPPORT.
October 28, 2026
4 Stars
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley By Emi Hilton
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley is a wonderfully written Christmas Romance that I truly enjoyed reading. This is a fairly new author to me but I’m definitely glad I took the chance. I love a good Christmas story that mixes the right amount of holiday cheer and a dash of drama and a sprinkle of humor. The characters are creative,relatable and fully developed. They bring the story to life. This was a fun story to read. This friends to lovers romance has all the things that make a great story. To become CEO Hunter must be married by Christmas Eve according to a clause in his fathers will. Big problem he’s not seeing anyone so he asks his best friend Katelyn to help. Another big problem she agrees to help but it’s killing her because she’s been secretly in love with him . These two finally figure it out. Im not giving any more away. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading more from this Author.
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley By Emi Hilton
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley is a wonderfully written Christmas Romance that I truly enjoyed reading. This is a fairly new author to me but I’m definitely glad I took the chance. I love a good Christmas story that mixes the right amount of holiday cheer and a dash of drama and a sprinkle of humor. The characters are creative,relatable and fully developed. They bring the story to life. This was a fun story to read. This friends to lovers romance has all the things that make a great story. To become CEO Hunter must be married by Christmas Eve according to a clause in his fathers will. Big problem he’s not seeing anyone so he asks his best friend Katelyn to help. Another big problem she agrees to help but it’s killing her because she’s been secretly in love with him . These two finally figure it out. Im not giving any more away. I highly recommend reading this book to find out what happens next. Im looking forward to reading more from this Author.
November 5, 2026
This book was cute! I absolutely loved it! It was also very relatable.
What the author brings to the reader in Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley sucks the reader in and makes you feel for the characters. Being in a similar situation myself when it comes to pining for someone who doesn’t see what’s right in front of them, I can relate to Katelyn’s frustration. She cares so deeply for her best friend but has to keep it bottled up. Why? Because she doesn’t want to force his hand, he wants him to choose her. Anyone who has ever been in this type of situation knows how that feels. It’s even worse when you are the one setting them up with other people. Which is exactly the scenario we come across in our story.
Hunter’s dad left a clause in his will that states: he is ineligible to remain CEO of the company if he doesn’t marry someone by Christmas Eve. Depending on the time of year it is, that could potentially be doable. However he has less than a month. So what does he do? He turns to his best friend. Not for her to be his wife, but for her to help find him one. Selfish if I do say so myself but it also leads to growth and change as the story progresses.
This book made me feel more than usual. I guess because outside of “the clause” aspect, it’s been there, done that for me. I always feel when an author can suck you in so much that you are feeling raw emotions, then they did their job.
Books are a form of artistry and when they can make you feel you can relate to the piece. Then in your eyes it turns into a work of art. In this case that was this book for me.
Maybe you will feel something similar, but you won’t know till you jump on in!
What the author brings to the reader in Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley sucks the reader in and makes you feel for the characters. Being in a similar situation myself when it comes to pining for someone who doesn’t see what’s right in front of them, I can relate to Katelyn’s frustration. She cares so deeply for her best friend but has to keep it bottled up. Why? Because she doesn’t want to force his hand, he wants him to choose her. Anyone who has ever been in this type of situation knows how that feels. It’s even worse when you are the one setting them up with other people. Which is exactly the scenario we come across in our story.
Hunter’s dad left a clause in his will that states: he is ineligible to remain CEO of the company if he doesn’t marry someone by Christmas Eve. Depending on the time of year it is, that could potentially be doable. However he has less than a month. So what does he do? He turns to his best friend. Not for her to be his wife, but for her to help find him one. Selfish if I do say so myself but it also leads to growth and change as the story progresses.
This book made me feel more than usual. I guess because outside of “the clause” aspect, it’s been there, done that for me. I always feel when an author can suck you in so much that you are feeling raw emotions, then they did their job.
Books are a form of artistry and when they can make you feel you can relate to the piece. Then in your eyes it turns into a work of art. In this case that was this book for me.
Maybe you will feel something similar, but you won’t know till you jump on in!
October 12, 2026
I know it’s only October but who doesn’t love a little early Christmas cheer ?!
Hunter’s father has passed away and now it’s time for the will to be read 🫣 daddy dear was very clever to put in a clause that if Hunter isn’t married by Christmas Eve he forgot his position as CEO at Everpine Investmensts and I’d say he’s got a problem on his hands because he doesn’t have a love interest let alone any lucky lady that’s caught his eye 😱🤷♀️
Lucky for him he’s got Katelyn his bestie since way back when and she attempts to help him find a wife with no luck 🤣 some were really awkward and others brought out the little green monster called jealousy and I think the lady aka Katelyn doth protest to much and she’s had feelings for Hunter all along and it doe goes both ways I mean hello he has a meltdown when she goes on a date 🫢but Christmas Eve is around the corner and now he must either let his one true love slip through his fingers or chase after a business position he can have both is if true love 😉🤷♀️
Look I was invested from the start and I’m not even going to try and deny it 🤣 and my little heart was happy and fulfilled spending time with these two and the town folk 🥰
This was just what I needed to get me into the mood of humming Christmas tunes early and getting excited for the magical season that’s heading our way sooner rather than later 🥰
Hunter’s father has passed away and now it’s time for the will to be read 🫣 daddy dear was very clever to put in a clause that if Hunter isn’t married by Christmas Eve he forgot his position as CEO at Everpine Investmensts and I’d say he’s got a problem on his hands because he doesn’t have a love interest let alone any lucky lady that’s caught his eye 😱🤷♀️
Lucky for him he’s got Katelyn his bestie since way back when and she attempts to help him find a wife with no luck 🤣 some were really awkward and others brought out the little green monster called jealousy and I think the lady aka Katelyn doth protest to much and she’s had feelings for Hunter all along and it doe goes both ways I mean hello he has a meltdown when she goes on a date 🫢but Christmas Eve is around the corner and now he must either let his one true love slip through his fingers or chase after a business position he can have both is if true love 😉🤷♀️
Look I was invested from the start and I’m not even going to try and deny it 🤣 and my little heart was happy and fulfilled spending time with these two and the town folk 🥰
This was just what I needed to get me into the mood of humming Christmas tunes early and getting excited for the magical season that’s heading our way sooner rather than later 🥰
October 13, 2026
As if losing his father to cancer wasn't hard enough, Hunter faces the Christmas Clause. According to his father's will, he must find a wife by Christmas to keep the family company. The real shocker is that he must stay married for ten years. If not, he will lose the company he worked so hard to not only maintain, but also grow while his father was sick. With less than a month until Christmas, time is ticking. There is only one woman Hunter even likes a little, and that is his best friend, Katelyn. The only thing that Hunter has going foe him is that Everpine Valley was voted as of the romantic wedding destination. To find out if Hunter can find a wife before time runs out, read Christmas Marriage Clause.
I really enjoyed reading this book- it was a great way to kick off the holiday season. I absolutely love Christmas. To me there is not another time that is more magical than Christmas. So, a Christmas romance is a must! The characters are wonderful, and so is the town. I found myself wishing I could just step right into the pages and head to Pine & Pages for a spell to find a great book. It would be a lot of fun to literally watch the Christmas Clause in live action. If you are looking for a fun Christmas Romance book, check out. If you are anything like me, you will be shouting at Hunter that he already has the perfect girl in his life, he is just too blind to notice it.
I really enjoyed reading this book- it was a great way to kick off the holiday season. I absolutely love Christmas. To me there is not another time that is more magical than Christmas. So, a Christmas romance is a must! The characters are wonderful, and so is the town. I found myself wishing I could just step right into the pages and head to Pine & Pages for a spell to find a great book. It would be a lot of fun to literally watch the Christmas Clause in live action. If you are looking for a fun Christmas Romance book, check out. If you are anything like me, you will be shouting at Hunter that he already has the perfect girl in his life, he is just too blind to notice it.
October 26, 2026
This book was such a cute romance story. Hunter and Katelyn have been best friends for as long as they can remember. They have never ventured to anything romantic because Hunter never even thought of that option. He values her friendship way more than he thought chancing it was worth. However, Katelyn has always been I love with him. It’s not until Hunter finds out about the Marriage Clause in his father’s will. Hunter needs to be married by Christmas Eve ( which is less then a month away ) and stay married for 10 years in order to be CEO of Everpine Investment Enterprises. Katelyn agrees to set him up on dates to help him succeed even though it’s tearing her apart inside.
Hunter has no idea how she feels about him but he will quickly realize it when she starts dating also and he has to witness it. If that’s not enough, she actually tells him how she has always wishes they could be more.
With just a few days left before Christmas, Hunter realizes he lost his shot and will lose the company but, he also realizes that Katelyn is the best person for him. Everyone else always knew they would end up together but it just took him longer to realize it.
This was definitely a great read.
Hunter has no idea how she feels about him but he will quickly realize it when she starts dating also and he has to witness it. If that’s not enough, she actually tells him how she has always wishes they could be more.
With just a few days left before Christmas, Hunter realizes he lost his shot and will lose the company but, he also realizes that Katelyn is the best person for him. Everyone else always knew they would end up together but it just took him longer to realize it.
This was definitely a great read.
October 12, 2026
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley (Everpine Valley Series) by Emi Hilton.
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging festive romance set in the quaint mountain town of Everpine Valley, a place where holiday traditions and falling in love go hand in hand. Hunter’s late father’s will says that he must marry by Christmas Eve, or lose his CEO position of Everpine Investment Enterprises. As he doesn’t have a girlfriend he asks his long-time best friend Katelyn to help him find a wife, not knowing that she has been secretly in love with him for years. As Christmas Eve gets nearer, Hunter and Katelyn’s friendship is suffering, and it becomes hard to pretend that their connection is ‘just’ as friends. However, Hunter has to decide what his priority is, saving the family business or potentially loosing the woman he loves. This was a heartwarming friends to lovers romance which kept me captivated throughout. Hunter and Katelyn’s chemistry came across in the narrative, making me feel invested in their relationship. The small town vibes added to the overall story and the festive feel added to the romance. A wonderful Christmas read!
4 of 5 Stars.
An enjoyable and engaging festive romance set in the quaint mountain town of Everpine Valley, a place where holiday traditions and falling in love go hand in hand. Hunter’s late father’s will says that he must marry by Christmas Eve, or lose his CEO position of Everpine Investment Enterprises. As he doesn’t have a girlfriend he asks his long-time best friend Katelyn to help him find a wife, not knowing that she has been secretly in love with him for years. As Christmas Eve gets nearer, Hunter and Katelyn’s friendship is suffering, and it becomes hard to pretend that their connection is ‘just’ as friends. However, Hunter has to decide what his priority is, saving the family business or potentially loosing the woman he loves. This was a heartwarming friends to lovers romance which kept me captivated throughout. Hunter and Katelyn’s chemistry came across in the narrative, making me feel invested in their relationship. The small town vibes added to the overall story and the festive feel added to the romance. A wonderful Christmas read!
October 16, 2026
This was a quick, fun and enjoyable read for me. I love a good Christmas romance. This is a friends to lovers book. Hunter finds out that there is a clause in his father's will preventing him from becoming CEO of his family’s company if he doesn't get married by Christmas eve. Hunter is stressed because he isn't even dating anyone and he has less than a month. Who,besides his best friend Katelyn,would be better at helping him find a potential wife. Katelyn agrees to help him even though it's breaking her heart because she has been in love with him for as long as she can remember. She tells herself to move on because he doesn't feel the same way so she starts to date as well. This part of the book is where everything gets more interesting because they are both dating and each of them have very strong feelings about the situation. She knows their relationship will change if/when he gets married, he isn't liking the fact that she is dating now. You will want to read this fun, romantic holiday story if you want to find out how they navigate all the feelings. I recommend this book, and I look forward to reading more books by this author.
October 26, 2026
What a fun premise for a Christmas romance! The marriage clause, looming Christmas Eve deadline, and best-friends-to-lovers storyline make the perfect recipe for holiday romance.
Hunter's unexpected predicament sets the stage for awkward dates, jealous moments, and complications, especially when he turns to Katelyn for help finding a wife, not realizing she's been carrying a torch for him for years. I love the emotional tension this creates, as Katelyn must navigate her own feelings while helping the man she loves find someone else.
The countdown to Christmas adds urgency, making Hunter's dilemma about more than simply keeping his position as CEO. It's also about recognizing what truly matters before he risks losing something far more valuable than a business.
With its mix of friendship, hidden feelings, romantic complications, and festive atmosphere, Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley sounds like a delightful choice for readers who enjoy holiday romances where love has been right in front of the characters all along.
A sweet seasonal setup promises romance and heart and reminds us that sometimes the person we've been searching for has been beside us all along. 🎄💕
Hunter's unexpected predicament sets the stage for awkward dates, jealous moments, and complications, especially when he turns to Katelyn for help finding a wife, not realizing she's been carrying a torch for him for years. I love the emotional tension this creates, as Katelyn must navigate her own feelings while helping the man she loves find someone else.
The countdown to Christmas adds urgency, making Hunter's dilemma about more than simply keeping his position as CEO. It's also about recognizing what truly matters before he risks losing something far more valuable than a business.
With its mix of friendship, hidden feelings, romantic complications, and festive atmosphere, Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley sounds like a delightful choice for readers who enjoy holiday romances where love has been right in front of the characters all along.
A sweet seasonal setup promises romance and heart and reminds us that sometimes the person we've been searching for has been beside us all along. 🎄💕
October 26, 2026
The Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley is the perfect feel-good holiday romance, complete with all the familiar tropes you'd expect from a Hallmark Christmas movie!
When Hunter discovers he must marry by Christmas Eve or lose his position as CEO of the family business, he turns to his long-time best friend, Katelyn, to help him find a wife. The problem? She's been secretly in love with him for years.
I enjoyed the combination of friends-to-lovers romance, awkward matchmaking dates, romantic jealousy and a little billionaire business drama. The Christmas Eve deadline keeps the story moving, while the lighthearted humour and familiar tropes make it an easy, comforting read.
At under 200 pages, it's perfect for squeezing into the busy holiday season or kicking off your Christmas reading. The storyline is predictable, but that's part of its charm, and the romance feels complete and satisfying despite the shorter length.
If you're after unexpected twists or plenty of spice, this probably won't be the book for you. But if you love sweet, clean romances with festive charm and a guaranteed dose of feel-good Christmas magic, this one ticks all the boxes!
When Hunter discovers he must marry by Christmas Eve or lose his position as CEO of the family business, he turns to his long-time best friend, Katelyn, to help him find a wife. The problem? She's been secretly in love with him for years.
I enjoyed the combination of friends-to-lovers romance, awkward matchmaking dates, romantic jealousy and a little billionaire business drama. The Christmas Eve deadline keeps the story moving, while the lighthearted humour and familiar tropes make it an easy, comforting read.
At under 200 pages, it's perfect for squeezing into the busy holiday season or kicking off your Christmas reading. The storyline is predictable, but that's part of its charm, and the romance feels complete and satisfying despite the shorter length.
If you're after unexpected twists or plenty of spice, this probably won't be the book for you. But if you love sweet, clean romances with festive charm and a guaranteed dose of feel-good Christmas magic, this one ticks all the boxes!
November 4, 2026
Oh boy. Oh boy oh boy oh boy. I’m a huge sucker for unrequited and/or oblivious love. And this book is FILLED with it. I also very much love the whole “contractual clause = need a last-minute relationship” trope. Again, this book has that. I love easy reads that keep me turning the page. This book? Got it, too.
Hunter needs a wife. For a decade, at minimum. Or he loses his company due to a clause in his father’s will. And of course he enlists his best friend’s help to actually fulfill that demand because he loves the company his father left to him (on this condition, of course). And of course it isn’t going to be easy—Hunter is single (very much so), but with Katelyn’s help, maybe he can succeed.
Unfortunately for Katelyn, this requires her to pretend she is positively thrilled to help him. Which is kinda hard to do when you’re in love with someone.
There’s so much good that this book has going for it: great characters who need a quick bop to the head with a newspaper to get them thinking straight and a story that keeps you reading until the very last page. It really works as a “it’s too cold to do anything outside, let’s curl up with a hot cocoa and a book” kinda thing.
Hunter needs a wife. For a decade, at minimum. Or he loses his company due to a clause in his father’s will. And of course he enlists his best friend’s help to actually fulfill that demand because he loves the company his father left to him (on this condition, of course). And of course it isn’t going to be easy—Hunter is single (very much so), but with Katelyn’s help, maybe he can succeed.
Unfortunately for Katelyn, this requires her to pretend she is positively thrilled to help him. Which is kinda hard to do when you’re in love with someone.
There’s so much good that this book has going for it: great characters who need a quick bop to the head with a newspaper to get them thinking straight and a story that keeps you reading until the very last page. It really works as a “it’s too cold to do anything outside, let’s curl up with a hot cocoa and a book” kinda thing.
November 5, 2026
Celebrating Christmas is always a little stressful. But for Hunter Chase, it just became even more. Being CEO of Everpine Investment Enterprises is what he strives at. Stepping in for his father when he became ill was something Hunter could feel proud to do. So that way the company his family worked to build stayed with the family. So, after his dad’s passing and finding out that his father’s will contained a major Clause that involved him, threw him for the biggest loop of his life. Hunter had to be married by Christmas Eve, or he had to step down from his position and the company. How hard could that be, I mean he had no girlfriend and no potential prospects that he would even think to fill the spot of his wife on such short notice. So, he enlists the help of his best friend Katelyn to help him find a wife. Only thing is Katelyn has been in love with Hunter for years and cannot seem to be able to move from the friend zone. Will these two see that marriage is more than just vows and see that a solid marriage is based on trust and friendship. Or will it be too late and Hunter will lose it all? Read this cute little Christmas romance to see just what happens.
October 30, 2026
This is the first book that I have read from this author and I’m in love. This is the first book in the amazing Everpine Valley series. I love a good best friend to lovers romance but during Christmas now that’s perfect. This book exceeded all my expectations as a Christmas romance. I could not help myself to fall for these characters right from the beginning. It only took me a few hours to devour this story. This book will get you into the holiday season for sure. I can’t wait to read the next book of the magical series.
Hunter Chase thought that reading his dad’s will was going to be simple but a clause changed all that. He has to find a wife and marry her by Christmas Eve or he will lose the CEO of the company. Hunter has no girlfriend or anyone he could think of who wants to be his wife. He needs the help of his best friend Katelyn. He doesn’t know this but she has been in love with him for years. She says him on dates that just don’t go right. Hunter is losing hope but will Kayelyn be the answer he has been looking for?
Hunter Chase thought that reading his dad’s will was going to be simple but a clause changed all that. He has to find a wife and marry her by Christmas Eve or he will lose the CEO of the company. Hunter has no girlfriend or anyone he could think of who wants to be his wife. He needs the help of his best friend Katelyn. He doesn’t know this but she has been in love with him for years. She says him on dates that just don’t go right. Hunter is losing hope but will Kayelyn be the answer he has been looking for?
November 5, 2026
I enjoyed reading this holiday romance story. This is a newer author for me in which I enjoyed not only their writing skills but their use of details as well. I enjoyed how I was pulled into the story from the start. This is a story that will increase your holiday spirit. This is a story about Hunter. After the reading of his father’s will, he finds that he must marry by Christmas Eve. The only problem is that he doesn’t have a girlfriend or any options in his life. This is where Katelyn enters the story. Katelyn sets Hunter up on dates but what they don’t realize is that something bigger is happening between them. Hunter now faces deciding what is important to him. I enjoyed watching their relationship growth throughout the story. They are strong, well developed characters that are connectable. I wanted to know more about what would happen to them. I found their story to be fast paced and hard to put down. I look forward to reading more from this author in the future. I highly recommend this story.
October 13, 2026
Hunter and Katelyn have been best friends for years, however Katelyn has been in love with him for the last 10 years but Hunter has no idea. Hunter has met with a lawyer and found out there's a clause to him taking over as CEO of the family business after his dad has passed away.
Everyone around him has known Kaitlyn is the one for him however Hunter had never seen this.
He tells Katelyn about this clause and she goes to help him find his future wife, with less than a month's time is tough out there. And she starts dating as well, the first double date ends horribly but she meets another guy and they happen to end up going on another double date and it goes much better. However Hunter finally realizes what's been there all along! He realizes he's getting jealous and doesn't understand why at first but his feelings slowly come out and he realizes he's in love with Katelyn as well. Will his company be saved? Just read the book!
Everyone around him has known Kaitlyn is the one for him however Hunter had never seen this.
He tells Katelyn about this clause and she goes to help him find his future wife, with less than a month's time is tough out there. And she starts dating as well, the first double date ends horribly but she meets another guy and they happen to end up going on another double date and it goes much better. However Hunter finally realizes what's been there all along! He realizes he's getting jealous and doesn't understand why at first but his feelings slowly come out and he realizes he's in love with Katelyn as well. Will his company be saved? Just read the book!
October 20, 2026
3.5 Stars
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley by Emi Hilton is the first book in the Everpine Valley (multi author collaboration) series. And Ms. Hilton’s story delivers festive friends‑to‑lovers holiday romance with just the right mix of heart, humor, and holiday sparkle- setting the series off to a great start.
The premise had me invested right from the get-go. Because who doesn’t love all the Hallmark vibes of a CEO who’s being forced into marriage by Christmas Eve, just to keep his job … and his best friend who’s along for the ride. #pureHallmarkmagic right off the bat. With plenty of witty banter, slow-burn chemistry, and all the cozy, small town Everpine Valley charm really felt like I was catching up with friends over a warm mug of cocoa.
A sweet, feel-good holiday escape perfect for fans of small-town love stories and happily-ever-afters wrapped in tinsel.
Happy Reading…
Christmas Marriage Clause in Everpine Valley by Emi Hilton is the first book in the Everpine Valley (multi author collaboration) series. And Ms. Hilton’s story delivers festive friends‑to‑lovers holiday romance with just the right mix of heart, humor, and holiday sparkle- setting the series off to a great start.
The premise had me invested right from the get-go. Because who doesn’t love all the Hallmark vibes of a CEO who’s being forced into marriage by Christmas Eve, just to keep his job … and his best friend who’s along for the ride. #pureHallmarkmagic right off the bat. With plenty of witty banter, slow-burn chemistry, and all the cozy, small town Everpine Valley charm really felt like I was catching up with friends over a warm mug of cocoa.
A sweet, feel-good holiday escape perfect for fans of small-town love stories and happily-ever-afters wrapped in tinsel.
Happy Reading…
October 29, 2026
Emi Hilton’s Christmas Marriage Clause follows CEO of Everpine Investments, Hunter, and his best friend, owner of bookshop Pine & Page, Katelyn. When Hunter finds out he has to marry by Christmas Eve - which is only a month away - or he’ll lose his position as CEO, he enlists Katelyn’s help to find him the perfect wife. What he struggled to realise is that his perfect wife has been standing right in front of him the whole time. My favourite character was honestly Hunter because he was just a loveable idiot, had no idea what was in front of him but always tried to do the right thing. I recommend this book because I love friends to lovers, and I know a lot of people love a small-town Christmas romance. It’s only a short book so it feels a little rushed, especially at the end, but I was really happy with the outcome. “I’m sorry it’s taken me this long to realize what’s always been in front of me.”
October 30, 2026
This is the first book in the Everpine Valley Series. This is a friends to lovers story which I enjoyed all set in the festive season with a deadline of Christmas Eve.
Hunter Chase needs to find a wife by Christmas Eve. The issue is he doesn’t even have a girlfriend. So he asks his best friend Katelyn for help in finding a wife.
What he doesn’t realise is that Katelyn has loved him for years, so while she sets him up on dates deep down she wishes he will just see her. With the terrible dates and jealousy building this is a situation that could ruin their friendship.
Will Hunter find a wife before Christmas Eve? Will he finally open his eyes and see that Katelyn has been there all along? Or will this be the thing that breaks apart their friendship and Katelyn’s heart?
This was a lovely cosy romance with lots of festive feel to it. I really enjoyed reading it curled up with my hot chocolate.
Hunter Chase needs to find a wife by Christmas Eve. The issue is he doesn’t even have a girlfriend. So he asks his best friend Katelyn for help in finding a wife.
What he doesn’t realise is that Katelyn has loved him for years, so while she sets him up on dates deep down she wishes he will just see her. With the terrible dates and jealousy building this is a situation that could ruin their friendship.
Will Hunter find a wife before Christmas Eve? Will he finally open his eyes and see that Katelyn has been there all along? Or will this be the thing that breaks apart their friendship and Katelyn’s heart?
This was a lovely cosy romance with lots of festive feel to it. I really enjoyed reading it curled up with my hot chocolate.
October 31, 2026
When Hunter lost his father, it was hard enough - when the will is read and the clause he left behind for Hunter is discovered, it feels harder. His late father wrote into his will that if Hunter didn't marry by Christmas Eve, he was going to lose his position as the CEO of the Everpine Investment Firm! In an already hard time, he now has a goal to achieve, and he's starting with no girlfriends, no dates, and no idea where to start. So he asks his best friend Katelyn to help him find his match.
What Hunter doesn't know is that Katelyn has been in love with him for a long time. Instead of sharing her feelings with him, Katelyn decides to help set him up on dates to meet his potential future wife. What ensues is silly scenarios, wild dates, and jealousy. As they work their way through his dating pool, their chemistry keeps burning and the pages keep turning. A sweet read, slow-burn romance and the kind of love story that makes you feel ooey gooey inside. Really enjoyed this cute read!
What Hunter doesn't know is that Katelyn has been in love with him for a long time. Instead of sharing her feelings with him, Katelyn decides to help set him up on dates to meet his potential future wife. What ensues is silly scenarios, wild dates, and jealousy. As they work their way through his dating pool, their chemistry keeps burning and the pages keep turning. A sweet read, slow-burn romance and the kind of love story that makes you feel ooey gooey inside. Really enjoyed this cute read!
October 10, 2026
I absolutely love this type of romance so much, where best friends belong together, but of course, one of them is oblivious to the feelings of the other. What a motivational best friends romance during the holiday season. Hunter wants to take over the family business as CEO but is shocked to find that in his dad's will, there is a stipulation that the only way he can do so is if he is married by Christmas Eve, which is a very short time period. Hunter reaches out to his best friend, Katelyn, for help finding a potential bride to be, unfortunately for her, she's always been in love with her oblivious best friend. As Hunter goes on date after date, he ends up setting up Katelyn with one of his own friends so she could find herself a partner. Unfortunately, Hunter realizes that he can't stand seeing her with another man, even one he set her up with. This made for an amazing story, where romance keeps trying to happen, but the signals keep misfiring between the two best friends. Will they be able to see what's right in front of them before time runs out?
@Brandy Rymer
10/2026
@Brandy Rymer
10/2026
October 17, 2026
This was a fantastic read! I loved it! Hunter and Katelyn have been best friends for decades, since they were very young. Hunter can't imagine his life without her but Katelyn has a secret… She has been in love with him for years. She's firmly in the ‘friend zone’ and has been forever. Now that he must find a wife by Christmas Eve she is heartbroken when he puts her firmly in the ‘friend zone’ but being his best friend she tries to help him find a wife. Hunter and Katelyn both go on dates but none of them really measure up. Should they try and be together to save Hunter's business? Or are they actually fated to be together? I loved this! It's set in a beautiful location with snowy hills and ski resorts. The characters are relatable and its set in Winter which is my favourite time of year!
November 1, 2026
This is the first book that I have read by this author but it certainly will not be the last. Once I started reading I just could not put it down.
Hunter took over the family business when his Dad first got sick and couldn't do it anymore. So when his Dad passed he thought that he would still be CEO instead of acting CEO. When they read the will and he found out about the marriage clause that said he had to be married by Christmas and stay married for 10 years he turned to his best friend.
Hunter wasn't dating anyone but spent all his time with his best friend, Katelyn. He values her as his best friend and would never think of her as anything else. So he goes to her to help him find someone to marry in just a few weeks so that he could keep the company.
Loved the story and think you will too. Check it out you won't be sorry you did.
Hunter took over the family business when his Dad first got sick and couldn't do it anymore. So when his Dad passed he thought that he would still be CEO instead of acting CEO. When they read the will and he found out about the marriage clause that said he had to be married by Christmas and stay married for 10 years he turned to his best friend.
Hunter wasn't dating anyone but spent all his time with his best friend, Katelyn. He values her as his best friend and would never think of her as anything else. So he goes to her to help him find someone to marry in just a few weeks so that he could keep the company.
Loved the story and think you will too. Check it out you won't be sorry you did.
November 7, 2026
This is such a fun novella to read to get into the spirit of the holidays!! Hunter finds out that he has to be married by Christmas Eve or he loses his position as the CEO of the Everpine Investment Enterprises. Just how is he supposed to do that when there are no prospects? What's a guy do but enlist his best friend Katelyn to help him find a wife. Whether he realizes it or not, Katelyn has been in love with Hunter for years but has never really expressed that to him. He goes on a series of dates and just can't seem to find "the one" not realizing that she's been in his life for a long time.
This book reads like a few popular movies that I've seen and there really aren't a lot of surprises. However, it was nice to get lost in the lives of Hunter and Katelyn for awhile and watch their story unfold! It's a fun, lighthearted read and I'm definitely more in the holiday spirit now!
This book reads like a few popular movies that I've seen and there really aren't a lot of surprises. However, it was nice to get lost in the lives of Hunter and Katelyn for awhile and watch their story unfold! It's a fun, lighthearted read and I'm definitely more in the holiday spirit now!
October 11, 2026
I love a holiday romance and this best friends to lovers story was really cute. Hunter and Katelyn have been best friends since they were kids. Hunter’s father leaves a clause in his will that says he won’t take over the company unless he is married by Christmas Eve. Hunter turns to Katelyn for help finding a wife. Katelyn has been secretly in love with him for years but he doesn’t see her that way. Hunter goes on a few dates and find someone he is connecting with. But when Katelyn goes on a date he freaks out. Hunter is realizing maybe he does have feelings for Katelyn but has ignored them because their friendship means everything to him. The clock is ticking and Hunter needs to decide what is more important, a wife and his company or his best friend. This was a cute, clean romance and I read it in a day!
October 13, 2026
I love a good Christmas romance and this one did not disappoint! Hunter's father passed away and named him CEO of the family business, with one tiny little clause. Hunter's has to be married, by Christmas, which is just over a month away!! He also doesn't currently have a girlfriend! He turns to his best friend Katelyn to help him find a wife. Poor Katelyn has been in love with Hunter for years, but she helps her best friend anyway. When she goes on a date with someone else, Hunter starts to realize that maybe he really does have feelings for her! Grab this book, curl up and get lost in this Christmas romance!
October 26, 2026
Hunter Chase has watched his dad fight his battle with cancer for years, only to lose him. When it comes to taking over the company his father left behind, Hunter is informed that the only way he is allowed to take over is if he is married. Hunter isn't even dating, let alone married. We are taken on a journey of watching him try to find "the one" although unbeknownst to him, the woman of his dreams has possibly been right under his nose the whole time. I loved this story so much! The characters were unique and interesting. The writing was engaging and kept the pages turning. If you are looking for a sweet and clean Christmas romance, I highly recommend giving this story a try!
November 5, 2026
I LOVE Christmas books, movies, and honestly I just LOVE love. I was so excited to come across this title and dove right in. There is no need to wait until December to give yourself the gift of a cozy Christmas story.
Christmas Marriage Clause is like curling up and watching your favorite Hallmark movie. We know how it is going to end but the journey that takes us there is so much fun. Sometimes clean romance is just what you need to feel all warm and fuzzy. I love the friends to lovers troupe and honestly just ate this book up.
I didn't even know that the Everpine Valley Series was a thing and now I find myself hoping that the others don't disappoint because Emi Hilton killed it!!
Christmas Marriage Clause is like curling up and watching your favorite Hallmark movie. We know how it is going to end but the journey that takes us there is so much fun. Sometimes clean romance is just what you need to feel all warm and fuzzy. I love the friends to lovers troupe and honestly just ate this book up.
I didn't even know that the Everpine Valley Series was a thing and now I find myself hoping that the others don't disappoint because Emi Hilton killed it!!
November 6, 2026
Hunter is given the ultimatum of all ultimatums, either he finds a wife by Christmas or he loses his place a CEO of his family's investment firm. The countdown is on, with only 3 weeks until Christmas Hunter has to hurry. He enlists the help of his best friend, Kaitlyn, to help him find a suitable candidate. Kaitlyn reluctantly helps and sets him up on a couple different dates. When the final date doesn't work out, he turns to Kaitlyn one last time. At this point, she's frustrated and fed up with the whole situation and potentially throwing away her chance at happiness. Will Hunter and Kaitlyn see what's been there all along before time runs out?
October 12, 2026
What a cute and charming Christmas romance! This was a sweet, lighthearted read with all the cozy small-town Christmas feels. I enjoyed the story of Hunter and Katelyn and the childhood friends-to-lovers storyline.
The author’s writing style was engaging and easy to follow, making this a quick and enjoyable read. While the storyline was fairly predictable, it was still a fun holiday romance with likable characters and a charming setting.
If you enjoy sweet, clean Christmas romances and are looking for a quick, feel-good holiday read, this is a good one to pick up!
The author’s writing style was engaging and easy to follow, making this a quick and enjoyable read. While the storyline was fairly predictable, it was still a fun holiday romance with likable characters and a charming setting.
If you enjoy sweet, clean Christmas romances and are looking for a quick, feel-good holiday read, this is a good one to pick up!
October 26, 2026
What a great friends to lovers clean romance. Set in a small ski town, the CEO of one of the leading companies and the owner of the bookstore have known each other for many many years and are the best of friends. However what neither has told the other is how they truly feel and this is all a game changer. Now with a deadline and a company on the line, Hunter must marry, can he convince Katelyn he is serious? This book is a quick read and great for cuddling up on a cool evening and reading.
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