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Finding Love in Alaska #5
Under the Mooseltoe
A fake relationship might save them from their overbearing mothers, but what about their hearts?
Ava Monroe has a secret.
In her ambitious attempt to recreate the local gift shop passed down to the women in her family for generations, she’s put the store far into the red and is now days away from foreclosure. Pride has kept her from asking for help or even confessing her dire situation to those closest to her, most of all her well-meaning but overbearing mother.
Brayden Young came to Sunset Ridge to slow down from his hectic lifestyle after a tragic accident last spring and never left. The charming small town has shown him there is more to life than persistent pursuit of wealth and prestige. He’s even adopted a dog. Much to his mother’s dismay, he has no plans to move back to Texas—or even come home for Christmas.
Bonded by their desperate need to avoid their mothers meddling in their lives, Ava and Brayden forge a plan to fake a virtual relationship. A few photos should be enough to get their mothers off their backs.
Except, the simple plan turns south when both their mothers announce they’re spending Christmas in Alaska.
Ava and Brayden have to spend more time together if they’re to be convincing, which only blurs the line between what is fake and was it real. Feelings weren’t supposed to get involved. Oops.
Ava Monroe has a secret.
In her ambitious attempt to recreate the local gift shop passed down to the women in her family for generations, she’s put the store far into the red and is now days away from foreclosure. Pride has kept her from asking for help or even confessing her dire situation to those closest to her, most of all her well-meaning but overbearing mother.
Brayden Young came to Sunset Ridge to slow down from his hectic lifestyle after a tragic accident last spring and never left. The charming small town has shown him there is more to life than persistent pursuit of wealth and prestige. He’s even adopted a dog. Much to his mother’s dismay, he has no plans to move back to Texas—or even come home for Christmas.
Bonded by their desperate need to avoid their mothers meddling in their lives, Ava and Brayden forge a plan to fake a virtual relationship. A few photos should be enough to get their mothers off their backs.
Except, the simple plan turns south when both their mothers announce they’re spending Christmas in Alaska.
Ava and Brayden have to spend more time together if they’re to be convincing, which only blurs the line between what is fake and was it real. Feelings weren’t supposed to get involved. Oops.
250 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 9, 2020
About the author
Jacqueline Winters
29 books142 followersJacqueline Winters has been writing since she was nine when she'd sneak stacks of paper from her grandma’s closet and fill them with adventure. She grew up in Small-Town Nebraska, and spent a decade living in beautiful Alaska. She writes contemporary sweet romances and contemporary romantic suspense.
She’s a sucker for happily ever after’s, has a sweet tooth that can be sated with cupcakes, and firmly believes sangria was possibly the best invention ever. On a relaxing evening, you can find her at her computer writing her next novel with her dog poking his adorable head out from beneath the desk.
She’s a sucker for happily ever after’s, has a sweet tooth that can be sated with cupcakes, and firmly believes sangria was possibly the best invention ever. On a relaxing evening, you can find her at her computer writing her next novel with her dog poking his adorable head out from beneath the desk.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
February 15, 2026
I enjoyed the storyline in this one. The millionaire who could easily save the struggling store owner he has a crush on but he knows she wouldn’t accept his help (she also doesn’t know he’s rich). He secretly buys as much from her store as he can to help.
She is stubborn and feels she has too do things alone, she also doesn’t want to make her problems anyone else’s problems, especially at Christmas time, so she takes on saving her store all by herself.
Their mom’s both meddle and they devise a fake relationship to keep them at bay, but that only brings the moms to town for a visit. Brayden and Ava then end up spending more time together, Brayden lets it slip he knows the store is struggling and he wants to help (not financially, she still doesn’t know he’s rich). She agrees and their close proximity they fall in love.
There was one issue I had and it almost cause a star deduction, but it’s not that dire to really knock a star for how feel good this quick read made me feel. Laurel pissed me off. Now, this was Tessa is book 1. If you’ve read my reviews, you’ll know I didn’t not like Tessa in book 1 because she didn’t make time for her sister, but in her book (book 2) we understand why she was that way and see a different side of her. I’m hoping it’s that way for Laurel, but idk. Here’s my issues:
Ava and Laurel had a falling out (not giving spoilers it’s Laurel’s book blurb) because she married her brother Chase without telling her and then 6 months later left town. She moves back to town (this is what her book will be about, but we see the small cross over in Ava’s book) and within a few days of being back and talking to Kinley had deduced that Ava’s store is in trouble and wants to help. So they corner her and tell her this. Ava agrees (says she’ll work on forgiving Laurel later but will accept her help now) and hears their plan. Annoying that the 5 years of anger are just looked over, but it’s a feel good book. This is the actual issue. While heading to the shop on Christmas Eve LAUREL asks Ava how much she really knows about Brayden and the proceeds to tell her everything she dug up in the last 48 hours. She was a shitty friend and disappeared for 5 years, shows back up to help, then blows up Ava’s relationship by throwing information about Brayden in her face and then suggesting he could’ve written her a check to save the store and didn’t.
It all worked out. They got their HEA, but I wanted to punch Laurel. Again, I know it’s not that serious, it’s a book, a quick feel good story and it made me feel good to read it. I just got mad that Laurel shows up and did that.
She is stubborn and feels she has too do things alone, she also doesn’t want to make her problems anyone else’s problems, especially at Christmas time, so she takes on saving her store all by herself.
Their mom’s both meddle and they devise a fake relationship to keep them at bay, but that only brings the moms to town for a visit. Brayden and Ava then end up spending more time together, Brayden lets it slip he knows the store is struggling and he wants to help (not financially, she still doesn’t know he’s rich). She agrees and their close proximity they fall in love.
There was one issue I had and it almost cause a star deduction, but it’s not that dire to really knock a star for how feel good this quick read made me feel. Laurel pissed me off. Now, this was Tessa is book 1. If you’ve read my reviews, you’ll know I didn’t not like Tessa in book 1 because she didn’t make time for her sister, but in her book (book 2) we understand why she was that way and see a different side of her. I’m hoping it’s that way for Laurel, but idk. Here’s my issues:
Ava and Laurel had a falling out (not giving spoilers it’s Laurel’s book blurb) because she married her brother Chase without telling her and then 6 months later left town. She moves back to town (this is what her book will be about, but we see the small cross over in Ava’s book) and within a few days of being back and talking to Kinley had deduced that Ava’s store is in trouble and wants to help. So they corner her and tell her this. Ava agrees (says she’ll work on forgiving Laurel later but will accept her help now) and hears their plan. Annoying that the 5 years of anger are just looked over, but it’s a feel good book. This is the actual issue. While heading to the shop on Christmas Eve LAUREL asks Ava how much she really knows about Brayden and the proceeds to tell her everything she dug up in the last 48 hours. She was a shitty friend and disappeared for 5 years, shows back up to help, then blows up Ava’s relationship by throwing information about Brayden in her face and then suggesting he could’ve written her a check to save the store and didn’t.
It all worked out. They got their HEA, but I wanted to punch Laurel. Again, I know it’s not that serious, it’s a book, a quick feel good story and it made me feel good to read it. I just got mad that Laurel shows up and did that.
December 15, 2020
Ava was pretty foolish, hiding that her store is in financial trouble and spending her savings on a last ditch effort that may or may not work. She stubbornly refuses to accept help, even running from her woodworking neighbor Brayden because he knows her secret. I loved Brayden's mischievous branch loving rescue dog Elsie and the funny berry loving moose Ed who kept showing up all over Sunset Ridge and getting in Ava's way. Brayden and Ave decide to make it look like they are in a relationship to get their mothers off their back, but it snowballs when her mother shares the picture he took. Ava's ugly sweater Christmas loving matchmaking mother Mallory was riot if a little too controlling when it came to the store. Brayden's mother was uptight and it was funny how she changed after spending time with steamroller Mallory. But I don't know how Braydon acquiesced so easily going from Texas to Alaska. I would be so cold. I laughed out loud, smiled, and shook my head at times reading this was a sweet fake relationship Alaskan Christmas romance.
December 17, 2020
Ava Monroe was running the gift shop in Sunset Ridge that she had taken over from her Mom when she had left to be near Ava’s younger sister. But in her attempt to make it a success, she had actually put it in the “red”. She didn’t want to let anyone know of her failure, so she was working on a plan to save it.
Brayden Young was the next-door neighbor who may have seen the final notice letter that time their mail got mixed up. Regardless, she tried to ignore him. But when both of their mothers arrive for a visit and immediately start to plot a way to match their child up with someone to marry, Brayden and Ava have to move fast and pretend a fake relationship of their own to get their mothers to stop their interference! Why don’t these plans ever work as expected? How will they get themselves out of this mess?
This story was adorable. The characters were fun, the story line well-paced, and the laughter through their malfunctioning plan was worth it all! Grab your copy and see how well things work out for them! And give a wave to Ed the Moose along the way!
Brayden Young was the next-door neighbor who may have seen the final notice letter that time their mail got mixed up. Regardless, she tried to ignore him. But when both of their mothers arrive for a visit and immediately start to plot a way to match their child up with someone to marry, Brayden and Ava have to move fast and pretend a fake relationship of their own to get their mothers to stop their interference! Why don’t these plans ever work as expected? How will they get themselves out of this mess?
This story was adorable. The characters were fun, the story line well-paced, and the laughter through their malfunctioning plan was worth it all! Grab your copy and see how well things work out for them! And give a wave to Ed the Moose along the way!
December 22, 2020
This is the fifth book in the series, a wonderful addition. It's Brayden and Ava's story, and I love it! Their mothers are busy trying to micro-manage their love lives. Long distance. That just leaves them with just one option - they agree to fake date to get both mothers off their cases. But that backfires, and now both moms are headed for Sunset Ridge. They each have a secret they're trying to keep. Well, Brayden knows Ava's secret, but he's busy trying to pretend that he doesn't. Kinley, her best friend, is a bit pushy when it comes to their friendship with Lauren, but that situation works out exactly how it should. Ed the moose is back, and it seems like he has it in for Ava. This is small town living at it's finest, with the good (friends who care) and the bad (gossip), turning Sunset Ridge into the type of place I'd like to live.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2020
Ed strikes again and Ava is forced to finally speak to Brayden after dodging him sue to a mail mix up and Brayden takes advantage of it not only because he really likes Ava but also because he wants to help her save her store. Neither expected their Mums to turn up especially as they are both hiding something from them which will affect both of their futures. There are plenty of secrets, laughs, determined Mums as well as an attraction that isn't fake, big decisions to make and a gingerbread house competition I so want to join!! This isn't just a love story, but also about how you can lean on those you love and when times get tough they are there to help you trough it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2020
I received an ARC from the author thru Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving my review. I thought the love story between Ava and Brayden was sweet and humorous. I think Ed should take a lot of credit for some things. He certainly has been up to mischief again. Ava just wants to salvage the mess the store is in without anyone knowing. Brayden wants to help her and move forward from being just neighbors. Ava feels that she cannot win between the mothers, the store, Brayden and now her heart. If they can get past the secrets and other obstacles, they have a chance at a happy future together. I enjoyed this story. I thought it was well written and the characters were perfect for each other
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 10, 2020
This story centers around Ava and Brayden. When both of their mothers are calling them repeatedly each day, Ava’s trying to set her up on dates and Brayden’s wanting him to return to Texas, they agree to a fake relationship. They’re both keeping secrets. Will that matter in the end? If you enjoy small town romance that has family, friends, and Ed, the celebrity moose, you will really enjoy this story. I won’t leave any spoilers, but I will say Brayden is one fine hero. Be sure and grab your copy and enjoy some laughs while you read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2020
He has family obligations, she is just trying to save her store. One moose is determined to bring them together. Will she allow him into her heart? Will he choose love or his career?
I liked the fact that these two kind of built something before taking the plunge to a full relationship, even if it was on rocky grounds. I loved how she was creative and determined to do anything to save her store. I loved how he knew that money wasn't everything and was determined to help those around him. Great read!
I liked the fact that these two kind of built something before taking the plunge to a full relationship, even if it was on rocky grounds. I loved how she was creative and determined to do anything to save her store. I loved how he knew that money wasn't everything and was determined to help those around him. Great read!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 22, 2020
Ava and Brayden they both have meddling mothers, and they both want their mothers to stop and leave them alone. Brayden visited Sunset Ridge and never left. Ava runs a flower store that has been in her family and is about to go under. The two get together and and make a pact to be pretend to be dating. This is a warm holiday story. I really liked both Ava and Brayden together and their interaction was delightful. The story was good and flowed well. I thought the book was very enjoyable.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 24, 2021
I loved this book so much and spent most of the story smiling to the point of having my husband question my sanity! This was such a sweet small town fake relationship romance. I loved the writing of this story and how Jacqueline wrote about the progression of Ava and Brayden’s friendship into more. Also I really loved Ed the moose, he was such a funny addition to this story but also adds to this story in a such a good way. I really recommend this book and can’t wait to read the next one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 6, 2022
Under the Mooseltoe
Once again Ed the Moose is showing up to cause trouble and play match maker. This time he had his sights on Ava and Brayden who are neighbors in a dup!ex. Brayden is a man of mystery no one knows about his past just that he showed up in Sunset Ridge nine Mont ago and makes furniture. Ava is having trouble with the mortgage on her shop but doesn't want anyone to know.
Once again Ed the Moose is showing up to cause trouble and play match maker. This time he had his sights on Ava and Brayden who are neighbors in a dup!ex. Brayden is a man of mystery no one knows about his past just that he showed up in Sunset Ridge nine Mont ago and makes furniture. Ava is having trouble with the mortgage on her shop but doesn't want anyone to know.
December 9, 2020
I devoured this fake relationship Christmassy romance. I couldn’t get enough of it. The energetic spirit and the softness of our characters hearts. These installments in our Alaska saga are amazing and I hate waiting months for more!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2020
I loved Ava and Brayden and the hole story...of course their plan backfired and they fell for each other, it was expected, but the way the author wrote the storyline it makes you fall in love with the characters and keeps you reading right to the last word. I loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 21, 2020
Loved this book with Ava and Brayton who are both being pressured by their mothers for different things. Hers wants her to settle down and his wants him to return to Texas to run the family marketing business. They have been tip toeing around each other and the attraction they have been feeling. Sweet romance and of course a few visits with Ed the moose.
December 22, 2020
The fifth book in the A Sunset Ridge Sweet Romance series a well written story with a very good storyline the story flowed smoothly across the pages. I enjoyed reading Ava Monroe, Brayden Young, and we can not forget Ed the moose's story. I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 7, 2021
Mistletoe and a moose called Ed
Fake relationship turns real, moms come for Christmas, a store in danger of closing... This story was a blast to read, the characters were entertaining and sweet and their interactions with Ed the moose seemed to be timed magically to tip the scale in the right direction for some laughs and love. So fun to read.
Fake relationship turns real, moms come for Christmas, a store in danger of closing... This story was a blast to read, the characters were entertaining and sweet and their interactions with Ed the moose seemed to be timed magically to tip the scale in the right direction for some laughs and love. So fun to read.
August 10, 2023
I really enjoyed Brayden with his hidden secrets that were sweet and fairly innocent and the way he let Ava have her pride but still tried to help her. I loved the fake dating trope and the way their parents spoiled it but added a layer of hilarity to it. Christmas settings aren’t always my jam, but it was well done and I think this one had a well developed and clear plot.
December 6, 2020
Great story. There's a bit of whimsy, but it's mostly realistic.
There's some light banter tossed in there with serious moments.
The characters are well done.
I love that one character remarks that Ed knows more than he's given credit for. I LOVE that about him. :)
There's some light banter tossed in there with serious moments.
The characters are well done.
I love that one character remarks that Ed knows more than he's given credit for. I LOVE that about him. :)
December 10, 2020
Loved it
Really enjoy this series. Is always a fun read. This one kept me reading and feeling the tension all the way through. Love the changes that took place as the story progressed. As always, a great ending too.
Really enjoy this series. Is always a fun read. This one kept me reading and feeling the tension all the way through. Love the changes that took place as the story progressed. As always, a great ending too.
December 21, 2020
A sweet, small town feel story. The story is quick and easy to read. The characters fit well together. This is book five in this series. Looking forward to read more in this series.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 31, 2020
Really enjoyed this fun, heartwarming and sweetly thrilling journey filled with witty and engaging charters, heart racing twists and emotional turns. Was a great read from beginning to end, so much fun.
June 13, 2021
Endearing story
This takes place near Christmas time but it is a grand story any time of the year. I enjoyed this moose story. I love how his actions and inaction make a difference in the characters lives! So fun. A truly enjoyable story.
This takes place near Christmas time but it is a grand story any time of the year. I enjoyed this moose story. I love how his actions and inaction make a difference in the characters lives! So fun. A truly enjoyable story.
July 8, 2021
Okay
This one starts out as boring but if you hold on gets good. Ava is trying to save her store. Braden her neighbor is aware of her problem. He proposed an idea fake relationship to get their mothers off them. Will that last? Will she save her store? Will Ed help?
This one starts out as boring but if you hold on gets good. Ava is trying to save her store. Braden her neighbor is aware of her problem. He proposed an idea fake relationship to get their mothers off them. Will that last? Will she save her store? Will Ed help?
December 12, 2020
Cute, fun Christmas romance! This would make a great holiday movie. Loved the characters. Quick read.
December 12, 2020
Ava and Brayden loved it . Can't wait till next one . Such sweet book series .
December 16, 2020
ANOTHER GREAT BOOK
Just finished this wonder book and already pre- ordered the next book, it has been a GREAT SERIES and is well worth reading. You will not be sorry!
Just finished this wonder book and already pre- ordered the next book, it has been a GREAT SERIES and is well worth reading. You will not be sorry!
Want to Read
January 14, 2021 Nominated for a 2021 Swoony Award, to vote click here: https://tinyurl.com/y593ce67
November 17, 2021
I love this series and love Ava and Brayden's story. Ed, Sunset Ridge's own moose, adds humor to the story as you see him again in book 5. Great book!
February 17, 2022
Ava and Brayden
Ava is the owner of Forget Me Not, a unique gift store. Brayden is her neighbor and landlord. They are friends, but both want more.
Ava is the owner of Forget Me Not, a unique gift store. Brayden is her neighbor and landlord. They are friends, but both want more.
May 1, 2022
It's fake romance time complete with two meddlesome mothers. Totally enjoyed this christmas in Alaska story.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews