What do you think?
Rate this book
Holiday #1
The Writing on the Wall
This is book #1 in the Holiday Series.
Weston White just got dumped right before the New Year and hasn’t ever felt particularly lucky in love. Her only love has been writing and working on this novel she’s been trying to finish for years now. Finally, feeling like she’s ready to put it out to the world, she decides to get a literary agent to help her get published. Little does she know, her book getting published would be the second best thing to happen to her this year.
Annie Halifax is the third generation part-owner of The Halifax Agency, a literary agency that’s been dying on the vine for years with the advent of self-publishing. Her job is to carry the torch for the family and ensure the agency doesn’t go under on her watch. When her father decides to retire and, instead, puts her uninterested and sometimes flighty older sister in charge, Annie is left to figure out why and find her new place, either at the agency or somewhere else entirely.
When Weston meets Annie, she’s taken aback instantly, but navigating through getting her first book published while also falling in love with the agent representing her, isn’t easy. And with Annie trying to find out what her future looks like at the agency on top of it, things get complicated.
Watch these two women try to make things work just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Books in this series:
Book #1 - The Writing on the Wall (Weston)
Book #2 - The Block Party (Talon)
Book #3 - The Fireworks (Aria)
Book #4 - The Sweet Escape (Eleanor)
Book #5 - The Misperception (Paisley)
Book #6 - The Wait Is Over (Scarlet)
Series Finale - What Happened After...
Weston White just got dumped right before the New Year and hasn’t ever felt particularly lucky in love. Her only love has been writing and working on this novel she’s been trying to finish for years now. Finally, feeling like she’s ready to put it out to the world, she decides to get a literary agent to help her get published. Little does she know, her book getting published would be the second best thing to happen to her this year.
Annie Halifax is the third generation part-owner of The Halifax Agency, a literary agency that’s been dying on the vine for years with the advent of self-publishing. Her job is to carry the torch for the family and ensure the agency doesn’t go under on her watch. When her father decides to retire and, instead, puts her uninterested and sometimes flighty older sister in charge, Annie is left to figure out why and find her new place, either at the agency or somewhere else entirely.
When Weston meets Annie, she’s taken aback instantly, but navigating through getting her first book published while also falling in love with the agent representing her, isn’t easy. And with Annie trying to find out what her future looks like at the agency on top of it, things get complicated.
Watch these two women try to make things work just in time for Valentine’s Day.
Books in this series:
Book #1 - The Writing on the Wall (Weston)
Book #2 - The Block Party (Talon)
Book #3 - The Fireworks (Aria)
Book #4 - The Sweet Escape (Eleanor)
Book #5 - The Misperception (Paisley)
Book #6 - The Wait Is Over (Scarlet)
Series Finale - What Happened After...
285 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 1, 2022
178 people are currently reading
324 people want to read
About the author
Nicole Pyland
80 books821 followersNicole Pyland is a bestselling author of lesbian romance novels, including No After You, All the Love Songs, and the series like Chicago, San Francisco, Tahoe, Sports, Boston, and more. Since 2017, she’s published over 30 novels (not including her What Happened After shorts), and more books are on their way!
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
Nicole grew up in Indiana, studying English & Film and then getting a MS in Behavior Analysis and moving to California, working by day as a Head of Training at a start-up. She lives with her wife and their opinionated cat, who spends his evenings helping her write stories by occupying half the chair.
Website: nicolepyland.com
Newsletter: nicolepyland.com/newsletter
Twitter: @nicole_pyland
Facebook: @nicolepylandauthor
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
January 8, 2022
'ARC generously provided by Author in exchange for a honest review'
**'Really good storytelling has qualities of realism, firmness, lucidity, indifference & rightness. And is sometimes deem as unrestrained and untainted imagination..Writers need to let readers be magnetized by their stories then make certain they stay clinging to it to the end..'
Pleasant read!
Nicole Pyland's love for the writing craft when it comes to telling any story in her very long list of different series do glimmers like diamond throughout all the books that's she has written and that same glimmer is showing with this brand new book #1 of the 'HOLIDAY' series --- a new group of close-knit friends with a few cute names (Weston, Paisley, Talon, Aria, Ellie/Eleanor & Scarlet) This storyline focuses more on Weston and her love interest Annie and about becoming a first time published writer -- including all the steps required, the causes & the constant interactions between agent and publishers etc. ---then readers are introduced to the entire group of friends at the beginning of the story.
This book has the imprint of Ms.Pyland's style of storytelling;- classic insta-romance, insta-Love and insta-everything with good dialogue, a flair for the dramatics and is fast-paced.
A highly recommended book #1
**'Really good storytelling has qualities of realism, firmness, lucidity, indifference & rightness. And is sometimes deem as unrestrained and untainted imagination..Writers need to let readers be magnetized by their stories then make certain they stay clinging to it to the end..'
Pleasant read!
Nicole Pyland's love for the writing craft when it comes to telling any story in her very long list of different series do glimmers like diamond throughout all the books that's she has written and that same glimmer is showing with this brand new book #1 of the 'HOLIDAY' series --- a new group of close-knit friends with a few cute names (Weston, Paisley, Talon, Aria, Ellie/Eleanor & Scarlet) This storyline focuses more on Weston and her love interest Annie and about becoming a first time published writer -- including all the steps required, the causes & the constant interactions between agent and publishers etc. ---then readers are introduced to the entire group of friends at the beginning of the story.
This book has the imprint of Ms.Pyland's style of storytelling;- classic insta-romance, insta-Love and insta-everything with good dialogue, a flair for the dramatics and is fast-paced.
A highly recommended book #1
January 13, 2022
Writers in love.
This is the first book of the Holiday series and I'm super excited that Pyland has a new group of long-term friends to introduce. We have six friends in this solid circle (Weston, Talon, Aria, Paisley, Eleanor and Scarlet) and it's unusually large, so unless Pyland has plans for a long series, my guess is that some of them will pair up.
I like Weston. I think she's uncomplicated and humble. She's a trust fund kid but the only time we get any hint that she's rich is that she doesn't have a stable job and is able to pursue her dream of being a writer without worry. I like that writing is not just a dream for Weston, but that she actually succeeds in writing one book and is exceptionally good at it. At the same time, she's also humble enough not to acknowledge her talent and is genuinely surprised whenever anyone points that out.
Weston's love interest is Annie, who is her literary agent. Annie is an interesting character who prefers to keep things professional. But I don't think she's particularly good at what she does or at multi-tasking. Due to their professional relationship, Annie tries to put a stop to what is growing between them but does a terrible job at it and they grow closer. The characters communicate well mostly and the relationship blossoms. There's a lot of sexual banter between them too but it's cute rather than sexy.
Talon's story seems to have already started and from the looks of it, I know I'm going to love that one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is the first book of the Holiday series and I'm super excited that Pyland has a new group of long-term friends to introduce. We have six friends in this solid circle (Weston, Talon, Aria, Paisley, Eleanor and Scarlet) and it's unusually large, so unless Pyland has plans for a long series, my guess is that some of them will pair up.
I like Weston. I think she's uncomplicated and humble. She's a trust fund kid but the only time we get any hint that she's rich is that she doesn't have a stable job and is able to pursue her dream of being a writer without worry. I like that writing is not just a dream for Weston, but that she actually succeeds in writing one book and is exceptionally good at it. At the same time, she's also humble enough not to acknowledge her talent and is genuinely surprised whenever anyone points that out.
Weston's love interest is Annie, who is her literary agent. Annie is an interesting character who prefers to keep things professional. But I don't think she's particularly good at what she does or at multi-tasking. Due to their professional relationship, Annie tries to put a stop to what is growing between them but does a terrible job at it and they grow closer. The characters communicate well mostly and the relationship blossoms. There's a lot of sexual banter between them too but it's cute rather than sexy.
Talon's story seems to have already started and from the looks of it, I know I'm going to love that one.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
January 21, 2023
Loved this.
Would’ve preferred the teasers to the second book to be a little more… sleek
Would’ve preferred the teasers to the second book to be a little more… sleek
October 16, 2022
Cute… That was what Scarlet Campbell said of Weston and Annie in the last few pages. And that came to mind when I flipped the last page… A cute pleasant read.
3.5 ⭐️
3.5 ⭐️
March 6, 2022
Another review that I let go way too long. And you won't believe it, but this isn't the worst Pyland cover, though it does nothing to set the tone of the story. I mean, there are parts that take place in a cabin in the woods and that becomes a special place for our protagonists, but it's a happy place, not this gloomy, lonesome thing crouched on the water like a bandit.
Anyway, I liked this story, though the wish-fulfillment is strong in it. Subtle, though. I mean, Weston is a trust-fund girl who hits a home-run with her very first book. And that's author catnip, probably, but yeah, totally wish-fulfillment. And Annie isn't a pauper, either, with her family business and industry accolades. I liked where Pyland went from there, though. I particularly liked that they didn't balk forever at the client thing even as it became an issue a time or two.
And the whole storyline with Annie's sister was layered in provocative ways. It could easily have been the straightforward villain tale it looked to be at the start, but Pyland turned into something much better in the end. But then, I trusted that she would.
And, as usual, Pyland has my ticket, somehow because I just loved seeing these two get to know one another and become important in each others' lives. It was particularly interesting seeing Weston encourage Annie in her own writing because Pyland did a great job showing how two professional writers would interact to make each other stronger with their mutual support, even when they had different focuses for their writing.
Anyway, I'm giving this all five stars even though I'm a bit hazy on the details at this point. And I'm looking forward to picking up the next in the series. I liked Weston's friends and can't wait to see where we pick up from here.
A note about Steamy: There's explicit sex that's probably in the middle of my steam tolerance, though I don't remember details.
Anyway, I liked this story, though the wish-fulfillment is strong in it. Subtle, though. I mean, Weston is a trust-fund girl who hits a home-run with her very first book. And that's author catnip, probably, but yeah, totally wish-fulfillment. And Annie isn't a pauper, either, with her family business and industry accolades. I liked where Pyland went from there, though. I particularly liked that they didn't balk forever at the client thing even as it became an issue a time or two.
And the whole storyline with Annie's sister was layered in provocative ways. It could easily have been the straightforward villain tale it looked to be at the start, but Pyland turned into something much better in the end. But then, I trusted that she would.
And, as usual, Pyland has my ticket, somehow because I just loved seeing these two get to know one another and become important in each others' lives. It was particularly interesting seeing Weston encourage Annie in her own writing because Pyland did a great job showing how two professional writers would interact to make each other stronger with their mutual support, even when they had different focuses for their writing.
Anyway, I'm giving this all five stars even though I'm a bit hazy on the details at this point. And I'm looking forward to picking up the next in the series. I liked Weston's friends and can't wait to see where we pick up from here.
A note about Steamy: There's explicit sex that's probably in the middle of my steam tolerance, though I don't remember details.
February 25, 2022
This is the first book in a new Pyland series, so you know you get a bit of a lay of the land. We meet a group of 6 friends (Weston, Talon, Aria, Paisley, Eleanor and Scarlet), either Pyland will be writing a very long series or some of them will pair up. I have some suspicions already, but I won't go there yet.
This book is centered around Weston. Wes is a writer and a trust fund kid, but the only hints we get about her being rich is her not having a steady job, but she does own her house and a cute cabin. And ok, it is mentioned a time or two. Wes is trying to sign with a literary agent to get her book published. She ends up signing with Annie. Annie is a said literary agent and an aspiring writer herself, but she lacks the confidence and inspiration to really go for it. Annie also doesn't seem very good at her job to be honest, like she doesn't know how to multitask, keep deadlines. But it might be the circumstances, I just know I didn't like it much.
Wes is adorable and Annie a bit of a scatterbrain. I like them together. There are just a couple of things about this book I don't like a lot. There is a lot of emphasis on college hook-ups between the friends, especially between Talon and Wes, it keeps coming up. It tends to get a bit annoying. These women have been friends for a decade but somehow to me, the friendships seem superficial at best. They are in their late twenties and ready to settle down, or so they say, but they just talk about sex a lot and hook-ups. Which is fine, but it doesn't make the most sense. I feel like there is a fair bit of repetition in this book as well and it takes away some enjoyment for me.
I did end up liking this read, but I am hoping the next ones will be a bit better. The next one is sure to be about Talon as her story has already been setup in this book.
This book is centered around Weston. Wes is a writer and a trust fund kid, but the only hints we get about her being rich is her not having a steady job, but she does own her house and a cute cabin. And ok, it is mentioned a time or two. Wes is trying to sign with a literary agent to get her book published. She ends up signing with Annie. Annie is a said literary agent and an aspiring writer herself, but she lacks the confidence and inspiration to really go for it. Annie also doesn't seem very good at her job to be honest, like she doesn't know how to multitask, keep deadlines. But it might be the circumstances, I just know I didn't like it much.
Wes is adorable and Annie a bit of a scatterbrain. I like them together. There are just a couple of things about this book I don't like a lot. There is a lot of emphasis on college hook-ups between the friends, especially between Talon and Wes, it keeps coming up. It tends to get a bit annoying. These women have been friends for a decade but somehow to me, the friendships seem superficial at best. They are in their late twenties and ready to settle down, or so they say, but they just talk about sex a lot and hook-ups. Which is fine, but it doesn't make the most sense. I feel like there is a fair bit of repetition in this book as well and it takes away some enjoyment for me.
I did end up liking this read, but I am hoping the next ones will be a bit better. The next one is sure to be about Talon as her story has already been setup in this book.
February 10, 2022
The Writing on the wall (holiday series book 1)
MC Annie & Weston
Author Nicole Pyland
Group of Friends
Weston White and her college friends meet up every New Years Eve religiously. And she just got dumped at the New Year’s Eve party.
Weston is a writer, after sending her book to several publishers, Halifax Agency reaches out to her. They love her book!
Weston closet gal pals are Talon and Paisley.
Annie, a college graduate who comes home to work at the family business. Annie’s grandfather opened the Halifax Agency a publishing company who helps up and coming writers. Annie’s grandfather formed this company, after he couldn’t find anyone to publish his book about his time in the war.
Mix in some family drama, when Aubrey, Annie’s sister shows up back at home after traveling for the past few years.
When Weston’s and Annie’s world collide sparks fly. Weston is up front with Annie and never holds back on how she is feeling.
She’s kind and sweet. I like that Weston always listens to Annie and she wants to be Annie’s safe place. This story is very sweet and tender.
Weston and Annie take time getting to know each other. The sparks are flying and they light a fire in each other, in away that no one else has.
I really enjoyed this book looking forward to book 2 in a few weeks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
MC Annie & Weston
Author Nicole Pyland
Group of Friends
Weston White and her college friends meet up every New Years Eve religiously. And she just got dumped at the New Year’s Eve party.
Weston is a writer, after sending her book to several publishers, Halifax Agency reaches out to her. They love her book!
Weston closet gal pals are Talon and Paisley.
Annie, a college graduate who comes home to work at the family business. Annie’s grandfather opened the Halifax Agency a publishing company who helps up and coming writers. Annie’s grandfather formed this company, after he couldn’t find anyone to publish his book about his time in the war.
Mix in some family drama, when Aubrey, Annie’s sister shows up back at home after traveling for the past few years.
When Weston’s and Annie’s world collide sparks fly. Weston is up front with Annie and never holds back on how she is feeling.
She’s kind and sweet. I like that Weston always listens to Annie and she wants to be Annie’s safe place. This story is very sweet and tender.
Weston and Annie take time getting to know each other. The sparks are flying and they light a fire in each other, in away that no one else has.
I really enjoyed this book looking forward to book 2 in a few weeks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ stars.
May 3, 2022
A good start to a series - I'll read the rest -Typical Nicole Pyland, well written, the endings a little disappointing but it's a series...
June 7, 2023
Considering this was the first book of the series, this set the tone for me regarding where the author was coming from and where she wanted to go.
I have read four books of this series so far; in the order they were published and to be honest I’m thankful that I kept reading considering this first book didn’t make it for me.
Weston is a writer and Annie is a literary agent, for both were love at first sight. I got mad when reading several things, for example, without explanation Annie’s dad decided to give Aubrey (Annie’s sister) 51% of the company where Annie worked since day one, I mean I understand that you want your daughter to achieve her dreams, writing, but why not split 50%/50%, besides it was never given an explanation regarding her dad’s decisions, for me it was very selfish.
I felt that I connected with the MCs at the beginning but later in the story I felt I had been intrusive in these peoples life.
I have read four books of this series so far; in the order they were published and to be honest I’m thankful that I kept reading considering this first book didn’t make it for me.
Weston is a writer and Annie is a literary agent, for both were love at first sight. I got mad when reading several things, for example, without explanation Annie’s dad decided to give Aubrey (Annie’s sister) 51% of the company where Annie worked since day one, I mean I understand that you want your daughter to achieve her dreams, writing, but why not split 50%/50%, besides it was never given an explanation regarding her dad’s decisions, for me it was very selfish.
I felt that I connected with the MCs at the beginning but later in the story I felt I had been intrusive in these peoples life.
February 3, 2022
Rating 2.5
I hate that I have to give this one such a bad rating. Nicole Pyland is one of my favorite authors but this one was lacking in so many ways.
This is a slow burn romance and that isn’t that typical of Pyland. The main characters just didn’t seem to have much chemistry. On one hand, it was good that they got to know each other rather than instantly falling in love or into bed together. However, this just drug out so much. It was extremely repetitive and filled with so much fluff.
We are introduced to the friend group of six in this book. None of them really stood out. All they seemed to talk about was hooking up and sex. There just didn’t seem to be much of a friend connection beyond that.
I don’t plan to give up on Poland. As I said, she is one of my favorite authors to read. I won’t be recommending this one not people though. I am curious to see how she will redeem herself in the second book of this series.
I hate that I have to give this one such a bad rating. Nicole Pyland is one of my favorite authors but this one was lacking in so many ways.
This is a slow burn romance and that isn’t that typical of Pyland. The main characters just didn’t seem to have much chemistry. On one hand, it was good that they got to know each other rather than instantly falling in love or into bed together. However, this just drug out so much. It was extremely repetitive and filled with so much fluff.
We are introduced to the friend group of six in this book. None of them really stood out. All they seemed to talk about was hooking up and sex. There just didn’t seem to be much of a friend connection beyond that.
I don’t plan to give up on Poland. As I said, she is one of my favorite authors to read. I won’t be recommending this one not people though. I am curious to see how she will redeem herself in the second book of this series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 6, 2022
Amazing!!!
Ughh I loved this, I literally picked it up and could not put it down! I read the entire book within 24 hours….
This was a new take on rich girl / rich girl for me! Whilst it was made clear they both had plenty of money, it was never pretentious and it didn’t make much difference to the characters themselves or the story!
I am usually not a fan of the slow burn but I’ve found, I thoroughly enjoy it when Nicole Pyland write it!
I also LOVEEEE how she writes a sex scene!
I don’t have a fault to report in this book and I can’t wait for the next installment!
Ughh I loved this, I literally picked it up and could not put it down! I read the entire book within 24 hours….
This was a new take on rich girl / rich girl for me! Whilst it was made clear they both had plenty of money, it was never pretentious and it didn’t make much difference to the characters themselves or the story!
I am usually not a fan of the slow burn but I’ve found, I thoroughly enjoy it when Nicole Pyland write it!
I also LOVEEEE how she writes a sex scene!
I don’t have a fault to report in this book and I can’t wait for the next installment!
March 21, 2022
I have read the celelbrities series and liked it well enough, but this one is one class up by comparison.
I loved both main characters from the start, especially Weston. Her quirky method of witing is absoluely endearing. Annie, too, is very loveable and the dialogues between the two make for a lot of the fun in this read. The absolute cuteness of their budding romance as well as the surprising twist towards the (yes, happy) end make this an exceptional novel.
I simply could not put it down and read it in one go.
I loved both main characters from the start, especially Weston. Her quirky method of witing is absoluely endearing. Annie, too, is very loveable and the dialogues between the two make for a lot of the fun in this read. The absolute cuteness of their budding romance as well as the surprising twist towards the (yes, happy) end make this an exceptional novel.
I simply could not put it down and read it in one go.
February 8, 2022
The writing on the wall
This book is the first one of a series (thank God) and we get to know Weston and her friends. They are all very likable characters, and Nicole approach their stories on the side, so it got me really curious and excited to read all the books of the series
Can wait to see what happens with Talon and Emerson, if Aria get over her one-night-stands fase, if Scarlet ever gets to ask a girl out lol
can wait to read their stories
The first book is a really start book, you get to meet them, know a little bit about e all of them while enjoying Annie and Wes love story
It really is a must read if you enjoy Pyland's books (If you never read one of them, you should, like RIGHT NOW)
I gave it 4 stars because it's a really, really, r-e-a-l-l-y slow burn, and I don't know, I didn't feel the attraction between Annie and Wes as I usually feel between other characters from Nicole's books, it felt like they not even really like each other enough to really care, like there was no passion
But, as usual, Pyland's writing always gets you wanting to read the next page, and now I'm waiting anxiously for the next book, and really hoping to have more sexy-times before 90% of the book (actually, I prefer when is before 50% thank you very much) (Seriously, I'm TOO FREAKING ANXIOUS to wait that long)
Also, I learned from this book to never date an author,
(Spoiler) I'd be really angry if the person I'm dating forgot the date, leave me waiting, lost something that is really important to me, and after that also asks for time? Seriously? COME OOOOON(/spoiler)
I'm a bit of a writer, I get the zone, I'm always on the zone when I'm writing, but please, get your priorities right
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review
This book is the first one of a series (thank God) and we get to know Weston and her friends. They are all very likable characters, and Nicole approach their stories on the side, so it got me really curious and excited to read all the books of the series
Can wait to see what happens with Talon and Emerson, if Aria get over her one-night-stands fase, if Scarlet ever gets to ask a girl out lol
can wait to read their stories
The first book is a really start book, you get to meet them, know a little bit about e all of them while enjoying Annie and Wes love story
It really is a must read if you enjoy Pyland's books (If you never read one of them, you should, like RIGHT NOW)
I gave it 4 stars because it's a really, really, r-e-a-l-l-y slow burn, and I don't know, I didn't feel the attraction between Annie and Wes as I usually feel between other characters from Nicole's books, it felt like they not even really like each other enough to really care, like there was no passion
But, as usual, Pyland's writing always gets you wanting to read the next page, and now I'm waiting anxiously for the next book, and really hoping to have more sexy-times before 90% of the book (actually, I prefer when is before 50% thank you very much) (Seriously, I'm TOO FREAKING ANXIOUS to wait that long)
Also, I learned from this book to never date an author,
(Spoiler) I'd be really angry if the person I'm dating forgot the date, leave me waiting, lost something that is really important to me, and after that also asks for time? Seriously? COME OOOOON(/spoiler)
I'm a bit of a writer, I get the zone, I'm always on the zone when I'm writing, but please, get your priorities right
I received an ARC in exchange for a honest review
June 10, 2024
I found the author by reading her book Pride Festival part of the I Heart SapphFic Pride Collection. I chose to start with one of her series on KU. The series seems to center on a group of friends that have know each other for ten years plus. The romantic lead is this one is Weston White. She is a responsible trust fund girl who has been living on her money while working on writing a novel. It is now time to take get a literary agent and get it published.
Annie Halifax is a literary agent in the company her grandfather started. She reads Weston’s novel and wants to represent her. She is sure the novel will be big and she can get it to one of the big five publishers. Sparks fly between the two but it isn’t smooth sailing. Wes is down to earth and encouraging of Annie and her dreams. Annie on the other hand stumbles. She isn’t expecting her father retiring, or her sister to return and want to take lead in the company. Nor is she expecting Wes to be her muse and inspiring her own writing. There is a lot of to sort out and I like that they take time before jumping beyond dates and snuggles.
I found the catching up with friend group distracting to the story until I realized that this book is introducing people who will get their own stories in the series. I like that Annie’s sister who seems to come on too strong isn’t a golden child. She isn’t trying to steal Annie’s thunder but wants to return to the family and has a good business plan for the company. And she wants a sister relationship. The sister storyline adds some extra depth to the novel beyond the romance.
Annie Halifax is a literary agent in the company her grandfather started. She reads Weston’s novel and wants to represent her. She is sure the novel will be big and she can get it to one of the big five publishers. Sparks fly between the two but it isn’t smooth sailing. Wes is down to earth and encouraging of Annie and her dreams. Annie on the other hand stumbles. She isn’t expecting her father retiring, or her sister to return and want to take lead in the company. Nor is she expecting Wes to be her muse and inspiring her own writing. There is a lot of to sort out and I like that they take time before jumping beyond dates and snuggles.
I found the catching up with friend group distracting to the story until I realized that this book is introducing people who will get their own stories in the series. I like that Annie’s sister who seems to come on too strong isn’t a golden child. She isn’t trying to steal Annie’s thunder but wants to return to the family and has a good business plan for the company. And she wants a sister relationship. The sister storyline adds some extra depth to the novel beyond the romance.
October 23, 2024
Easy breezy read. 2.5 stars rounded up to 3. I blasted through this in one afternoon and I had higher hopes for it based on other reviews. As I followed Weston and Annie’s relationship develop, I realized that this book was just setting the stage for the rest of the series. That left me feeling cheated a bit because I spent a whole book on these two characters, watching this slowest of slow burns, only to have the end deliver a single 1.25 level spice scene at the very end.
The group of 6 friends talks constantly about sex when they are together as a group. They bring up how much they have hooked up, dated each other, need to get laid, hopes for future sex, sadness that past sex had ended, and how they love their current no strings attached situations. It was built up so much that when Annie and Westin finally got together, it was pretty underwhelming.
It was a pleasant read. It was a fine read. It was enough to encourage me that the rest of the series might be worth my time.
The group of 6 friends talks constantly about sex when they are together as a group. They bring up how much they have hooked up, dated each other, need to get laid, hopes for future sex, sadness that past sex had ended, and how they love their current no strings attached situations. It was built up so much that when Annie and Westin finally got together, it was pretty underwhelming.
It was a pleasant read. It was a fine read. It was enough to encourage me that the rest of the series might be worth my time.
May 28, 2025
Nicole Pyland always manages to get me invested right of te start. Just the first chapter or even the prologue is enough to make me curious and want to dig in. That's just how I like it. And it's not even because the stories are so special. It's mainly because of how she writes those characters. She makes you feel them, live vicariously through them, so every book really is an expierence. But, while Annie and especially Weston were nice, to me they were not the most lovable characters Nicole Pyland has ever written.
This first book of the Holiday series is about Weston meeting Annie, but we also meet Weston's 5 gay friends who all get their own book in this series.
Weston seems to be more into a relationship with Annie, while Annie seems a bit hesitant and even pushes Weston away at times. They both are bit tame and hesitant in taking steps in their relationship. That could be an annoyance. They go really slow. So slow it almost stops them from going at all.
There was chemistry but not really the lust kind of chemistry. If Annie hadn't mentioned she had a 'rolling pin' -aka vibrator- I would have thought she might be asexual, untill the very last part of the book when there's finaly some sexction. Fortunately Pyland can not only write great characters, but also great sex, so I was really satisfied with this happy ending.
This first book of the Holiday series is about Weston meeting Annie, but we also meet Weston's 5 gay friends who all get their own book in this series.
Weston seems to be more into a relationship with Annie, while Annie seems a bit hesitant and even pushes Weston away at times. They both are bit tame and hesitant in taking steps in their relationship. That could be an annoyance. They go really slow. So slow it almost stops them from going at all.
There was chemistry but not really the lust kind of chemistry. If Annie hadn't mentioned she had a 'rolling pin' -aka vibrator- I would have thought she might be asexual, untill the very last part of the book when there's finaly some sexction. Fortunately Pyland can not only write great characters, but also great sex, so I was really satisfied with this happy ending.
May 1, 2024
Weston White has just come out of a not great relationship, dumped on New Year Eve. But she's finished her book (that she's been working on for 5 years). She sends it to The Halifax agency to get her a publishing contract. When she gets a call from Annie Halifax wanting to represent her. When the two women meet, there's a chemistry between them.
This is their story of love. 5 stars! This is Book 1 in the series of 7.
This is their story of love. 5 stars! This is Book 1 in the series of 7.
December 10, 2022
I could edit out like 10 chapters.. because my god, that was such a long but short story.
January 10, 2022
This is going to be another great series. I really like all the characters so far and look forward to read their stories. Weston is so focused on her writing that she loses track of everything. Annie is very excited to represent Weston as her agent and can't stop thinking about her. Their back and forth is cute especially when they refer to baking cake, pie and using a rolling pin. You need to read the story to understand it's quite funny.
February 27, 2022
I always enjoy reading the first of a new friend group series by Nicole Pyland. I love the low-angst within the plot. I really liked the insight on being an author. It got me wondering how many authors plot out their stories. As a reader I liked the insight of the behind the scenes world of publishing and being a writer. I'm looking forward to the next in this series. I'm also curious to see which holidays are selected as points for the series.
November 27, 2022
Almost didn't finish
I couldn't figure out why I like M/M romance better than F/F until I read this book. I was 80% through before they even had spicy time. Girls have too many feelings and inhibitions. I thought the way they all talked we would get some hot and heavy but it was vanilla at best. If you're looking for super spice look elsewhere...
I couldn't figure out why I like M/M romance better than F/F until I read this book. I was 80% through before they even had spicy time. Girls have too many feelings and inhibitions. I thought the way they all talked we would get some hot and heavy but it was vanilla at best. If you're looking for super spice look elsewhere...
September 10, 2022
Excellent book now can't wait to listen to the next. The interaction between the group of friends has a real feel about it. Weston is so lovable and the banter between her and Annie is funny, amusing, sweet and just gives you all the feels
Read
March 18, 2022Cute and Realistic. A Fun Read.
4.5 out of 5 stars
I’ve enjoyed Pyland’s work, this being the fourth book from her. I’m glad to jump into a new series from her and The Holiday series seems like the perfect one. I did the thing where I don’t read anything about the book before diving into it so there were no spoilers. So learning what it was about as it opened up was really nice.
The Writing on the Wall was one of those books that I just flew through. Pyland’s writing made this such an easy book to enjoy. The main characters were both insanely likable and each one of them had their own unique thing they brought to the table. I liked the dynamic since they were supposed to be working together, but it wasn’t the typical boss-employee relationship, instead, it was a writer and an agent.
Each woman had their own issues and I like that Pyland didn’t hide them. The “oh no, this is what’s going to break them up” issue that came up was perfect for this and honestly felt like the least amount of a stretch in a romance novel I’ve read in a while. This one just felt very realistic and like it was something that would happen AND how each person would react to it happening.
Overall, I thought that The Writing on the Wall was a really fun and enjoyable read. Couple that with the excellent narration by Carolyn Eve and it’s a book that I flew through, enjoyed, and left me with a smile on my face.
4.5 out of 5 stars
I’ve enjoyed Pyland’s work, this being the fourth book from her. I’m glad to jump into a new series from her and The Holiday series seems like the perfect one. I did the thing where I don’t read anything about the book before diving into it so there were no spoilers. So learning what it was about as it opened up was really nice.
The Writing on the Wall was one of those books that I just flew through. Pyland’s writing made this such an easy book to enjoy. The main characters were both insanely likable and each one of them had their own unique thing they brought to the table. I liked the dynamic since they were supposed to be working together, but it wasn’t the typical boss-employee relationship, instead, it was a writer and an agent.
Each woman had their own issues and I like that Pyland didn’t hide them. The “oh no, this is what’s going to break them up” issue that came up was perfect for this and honestly felt like the least amount of a stretch in a romance novel I’ve read in a while. This one just felt very realistic and like it was something that would happen AND how each person would react to it happening.
Overall, I thought that The Writing on the Wall was a really fun and enjoyable read. Couple that with the excellent narration by Carolyn Eve and it’s a book that I flew through, enjoyed, and left me with a smile on my face.
March 20, 2022
**I was given a Audble Audiobook copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
What can I say about this book other than I REALLY loved it!! I'm not someone who reviews books typically on sites. I usually like something or I don't. But I need to say, I've read all of the other series so far that Nicole has written. I have my favorite series. I have my favorite books in each of the series. I have my favorite characters. I just know one thing....If Nicole Pyland writes something, I usually want to read it. Or in this case, LISTEN to it. This is probably one of the things I'm most exited about. This series seems to be getting the full audiobook treatment. And for someone like me who loves listening to books while I have my life going on around me, it makes this that much more enjoyable.
The book itself was great. I love the first books in the series where we start meeting characters and Weston and Annie were wonderful. Weston is an first time author who is trying to get the book she worked on for years published. Annie is a literary agent, who also aspires to write. She is assigned by her father who owns the company, to sign Weston with the agency and begin representing her.
This is a very sweet and low angst book. Not every romance has to have tons of drama in it and I absolutely love it. Do yourselves a favor, go out and get this. Start enjoying the Holiday series by Ms. Pyland.
What can I say about this book other than I REALLY loved it!! I'm not someone who reviews books typically on sites. I usually like something or I don't. But I need to say, I've read all of the other series so far that Nicole has written. I have my favorite series. I have my favorite books in each of the series. I have my favorite characters. I just know one thing....If Nicole Pyland writes something, I usually want to read it. Or in this case, LISTEN to it. This is probably one of the things I'm most exited about. This series seems to be getting the full audiobook treatment. And for someone like me who loves listening to books while I have my life going on around me, it makes this that much more enjoyable.
The book itself was great. I love the first books in the series where we start meeting characters and Weston and Annie were wonderful. Weston is an first time author who is trying to get the book she worked on for years published. Annie is a literary agent, who also aspires to write. She is assigned by her father who owns the company, to sign Weston with the agency and begin representing her.
This is a very sweet and low angst book. Not every romance has to have tons of drama in it and I absolutely love it. Do yourselves a favor, go out and get this. Start enjoying the Holiday series by Ms. Pyland.
January 4, 2023
I've read this one several times. It is the beginning of the Holiday series, of which I really liked most of the books. The story was great and we got a good introduction to the cast. My rating scale is all messed up as my favorite book in the series with Carmen and Ellie gets five stars and i gave this five stars, but that one should get more stars imho.
Anyway, our two MCs meet and they are both interesting and it was nice to watch them get together. It was enjoyable to also have some family/drama in the publishing biz. Annie was an interesting character and had an arc. Weston, i don't remember too much of an arc with her.
Anyway, our two MCs meet and they are both interesting and it was nice to watch them get together. It was enjoyable to also have some family/drama in the publishing biz. Annie was an interesting character and had an arc. Weston, i don't remember too much of an arc with her.
February 4, 2022
I really enjoyed The Writing On The Wall. It’s a fast-paced, well written romance with a cast of likeable and interesting characters.
Weston White is an author looking to publish her first novel. Annie Halifax is the literary agent she hires to get her the best publishing deal. Both Weston and Annie get more than they bargain for as negotiations start.
This book has so many cute elements with just the right amount of angst and romance. The chemistry between Weston and Annie is wonderful. There quite a bit of delayed gratification involved but it’s refreshing and worth the wait! Pyland’s love of writing and it’s process shines through on every page.
Everything is set up nicely for the next book in the series - I’m really looking forward to it!
Weston White is an author looking to publish her first novel. Annie Halifax is the literary agent she hires to get her the best publishing deal. Both Weston and Annie get more than they bargain for as negotiations start.
This book has so many cute elements with just the right amount of angst and romance. The chemistry between Weston and Annie is wonderful. There quite a bit of delayed gratification involved but it’s refreshing and worth the wait! Pyland’s love of writing and it’s process shines through on every page.
Everything is set up nicely for the next book in the series - I’m really looking forward to it!
February 6, 2022
Nicole Pyland has done it again! An other great start to a series. I have been hooked by her work since I read the prologue to the Chicago series. I typically wait until a few books of the series are available because once I get started, I do not want to wait for what happens next, this one is no different. I cannot wait to find out what life has in store for the other girls!
This book gives a nice perspective of the life of an author and the romance feels very natural. I thought about screaming at both Annie and Weston at various times but it was all part of the fun! I thought that the chemistry between them was maybe not as tangible as in some of her other work but still a solid foundation for what is yet to come.
This book gives a nice perspective of the life of an author and the romance feels very natural. I thought about screaming at both Annie and Weston at various times but it was all part of the fun! I thought that the chemistry between them was maybe not as tangible as in some of her other work but still a solid foundation for what is yet to come.
March 18, 2022
Good start to a new series!
Weston is trying to get a literary agent to publish her first book and Annie is part owner of a literary agency. When Annie's father decides to retire, big sister returns, things get complicated and each of their lives change in a big way.
I enjoyed getting to know a little bit about writing and publishing from behind the scenes. I enjoyed all of Weston's friends who were part of a great sisterhood and a launching pad for future books. I enjoyed Annie and Wes together, their slow burn relationship and their cute references to "baking."
I always enjoy Nicole's books and look forward to the rest of her new series!
Weston is trying to get a literary agent to publish her first book and Annie is part owner of a literary agency. When Annie's father decides to retire, big sister returns, things get complicated and each of their lives change in a big way.
I enjoyed getting to know a little bit about writing and publishing from behind the scenes. I enjoyed all of Weston's friends who were part of a great sisterhood and a launching pad for future books. I enjoyed Annie and Wes together, their slow burn relationship and their cute references to "baking."
I always enjoy Nicole's books and look forward to the rest of her new series!
March 22, 2023
Pinning A Series
Weston White is a full time writer who has spent five years writing her first book in a series where she has created a new universe. When she submits the book to an agent she meets Annie Halifax. Annie has been working with her father and wants to run the agency when he retires. After reading Weston’s book she is enthralled with the writer and the series. Weston is convinced she’s found her dream of being published and the woman to make her life complete. The first in a series about six friends who have been together for ten years. A great story of friendship and romance. Love the author.
Weston White is a full time writer who has spent five years writing her first book in a series where she has created a new universe. When she submits the book to an agent she meets Annie Halifax. Annie has been working with her father and wants to run the agency when he retires. After reading Weston’s book she is enthralled with the writer and the series. Weston is convinced she’s found her dream of being published and the woman to make her life complete. The first in a series about six friends who have been together for ten years. A great story of friendship and romance. Love the author.
February 6, 2022
If you like cute love stories you’re going to love this one
I’m always excited to read books that are part of a series but starting new series from Nicole Pyland it’s even better. I love the worlds she creates and the way she develops her characters. Wes and Annie didn’t disappoint and I’m sure what’s to come for Talon, Ellie, Aria, Paisley, Scarlet, and maybe Aubrey is going to be as good or better. Wes is the sweetest girl, she’s kind, thoughtful, supportive and I’m happy she got all she deserved. I’m glad Annie finally decided to do what she wants and makes her happy. Guys you’re going to enjoy reading this
I’m always excited to read books that are part of a series but starting new series from Nicole Pyland it’s even better. I love the worlds she creates and the way she develops her characters. Wes and Annie didn’t disappoint and I’m sure what’s to come for Talon, Ellie, Aria, Paisley, Scarlet, and maybe Aubrey is going to be as good or better. Wes is the sweetest girl, she’s kind, thoughtful, supportive and I’m happy she got all she deserved. I’m glad Annie finally decided to do what she wants and makes her happy. Guys you’re going to enjoy reading this
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews