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Christmas in the City #3
Melodies and Mistletoe
She dreams of becoming a famous musician, and he has the ability to make her dreams come true.
When Hailey Grant loses the gig she thought would launch her music career, her hope wanes, and not even Christmas movies have the power to cheer her up. So when her roommate suggests filming a song and posting it on the internet, she agrees. She never expected it to go viral, or that it would launch her into the biggest opportunity of her life. But when that opportunity comes from the smug guy who critiqued her song, will pride get in the way of her career—or her heart?
Ryan Bierman hasn’t posted to his music critique platform in years, but when he hears a song that touches him to the core, he wants to do something to help give the woman a leg up in the music industry. He doesn’t expect her to be angry about his critique, or to put him firmly in the friend zone. But that doesn’t stop him from helping her, or from falling in love.
Book three in the Christmas in the City series, Melodies and Mistletoe is an enemies-to-lovers clean romance. Books in this series are stand-alone romances and can be read in any order.
Book one: His Stand-In Holiday Girlfriend (San Francisco)
Book two: Snowed In on Main Street (Park City)
Book three: Melodies and Mistletoe (New York City)
When Hailey Grant loses the gig she thought would launch her music career, her hope wanes, and not even Christmas movies have the power to cheer her up. So when her roommate suggests filming a song and posting it on the internet, she agrees. She never expected it to go viral, or that it would launch her into the biggest opportunity of her life. But when that opportunity comes from the smug guy who critiqued her song, will pride get in the way of her career—or her heart?
Ryan Bierman hasn’t posted to his music critique platform in years, but when he hears a song that touches him to the core, he wants to do something to help give the woman a leg up in the music industry. He doesn’t expect her to be angry about his critique, or to put him firmly in the friend zone. But that doesn’t stop him from helping her, or from falling in love.
Book three in the Christmas in the City series, Melodies and Mistletoe is an enemies-to-lovers clean romance. Books in this series are stand-alone romances and can be read in any order.
Book one: His Stand-In Holiday Girlfriend (San Francisco)
Book two: Snowed In on Main Street (Park City)
Book three: Melodies and Mistletoe (New York City)
Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
December 30, 2024
This novella was my favorite in the set! A hopeful musician who is a nanny and a music industry exec who critiques a video she posts online lends to kind of an enemies to lovers vibe, plus a few little twists. This was a delightful, sweet read!
December 3, 2020
4.5*
Calling all you sweet Christmas story loving readers, this book is for you! This story was so stinking cute! I love stories with musical aspects in them and when I read the premise for this I was so excited to read it and see how Hailey and Ryan's story plays out. Two words...Happy Sigh!
Hailey is a singer/songwriter trying to make it in the music business. But with a few complications from her day job hours she finds herself losing her singing gig at a local club. In a moment of support, Hailey's roommate encourages her to record one of her songs and post it on Youtube. I loved all the repercussions that occurred form her video. Positive repercussions. One of which is being discovered by Ryan. He's a pretty big name and knows his music. I loved watching their story unfold. All the unplanned meetings and the friendship that develops, plus all the coincidences. *sigh*
There are several secondary characters that I really enjoyed as well that added a lot of depth and development to the story. There are some family struggles for a little bit but they helped form the story and the resolution was great.
If you're looking for some sweet Christmas time romance, great music and darling characters, grab a copy of this book. It is the third in the series. I haven't read the previous two books and was able to read this one without feeling lost. So definitely a stand alone novel.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Calling all you sweet Christmas story loving readers, this book is for you! This story was so stinking cute! I love stories with musical aspects in them and when I read the premise for this I was so excited to read it and see how Hailey and Ryan's story plays out. Two words...Happy Sigh!
Hailey is a singer/songwriter trying to make it in the music business. But with a few complications from her day job hours she finds herself losing her singing gig at a local club. In a moment of support, Hailey's roommate encourages her to record one of her songs and post it on Youtube. I loved all the repercussions that occurred form her video. Positive repercussions. One of which is being discovered by Ryan. He's a pretty big name and knows his music. I loved watching their story unfold. All the unplanned meetings and the friendship that develops, plus all the coincidences. *sigh*
There are several secondary characters that I really enjoyed as well that added a lot of depth and development to the story. There are some family struggles for a little bit but they helped form the story and the resolution was great.
If you're looking for some sweet Christmas time romance, great music and darling characters, grab a copy of this book. It is the third in the series. I haven't read the previous two books and was able to read this one without feeling lost. So definitely a stand alone novel.
Content: Clean.
I received a copy from the author. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
November 22, 2020
This was a sweet story. It takes place at Christmas time, but really could be read any time of the year. I loved Hailey's spunk. She was a great nanny, but she also knew how to stand up for herself and chase her dream. I really liked that about her. I wasn't sure about Ryan in the beginning. He seemed really sure of himself. I was glad Hailey stood up to him. He eventually changed my mind and I really liked him too. I enjoyed this book, but I was disappointed with the epilogue. I wanted more, it was too short.
November 22, 2020
“Sometimes things didn’t work out the way they were so carefully planned.” -Hailey Grant
Truer words have never been spoken. The minute I read that line from Hailey I knew she and I were two of a kind!
I’ll be honest, I have an unhealthy love for Hallmark Christmas movies. So I can say this as a Hallmark movie expert that this book is 100 TIMES BETTER than a Hallmark. This is my first contemporary from Kasey Stockton and I was blown away! I already knew I loved her regency writings so it shouldn’t have come as a surprise. The chemistry between Hailey and Ryan is perfection right from the beginning. I was surprised to find that this book was only 170 pages because it had everything in it. Nothing was rushed and the romance moved at a fun and believable pace. All of the stars for this book and it will definitely be added to my re read worthy circle of books!
This is one of the best holiday contemporary romances I’ve read to date and I’ll be reading it again before the year is over! This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. I have not read the others in this series and had no problem following this story or the characters in it. I’m also thrilled because I’ll be adding the others to my collection before the year is out. I have no need for cable with Kasey’s Christmas line-up!!
5 stars and re read worthy for this book. If you need a little Christmas spice and entertainment in your life, this is the book for you!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the Author and all thoughts and opinions are my own!
Truer words have never been spoken. The minute I read that line from Hailey I knew she and I were two of a kind!
I’ll be honest, I have an unhealthy love for Hallmark Christmas movies. So I can say this as a Hallmark movie expert that this book is 100 TIMES BETTER than a Hallmark. This is my first contemporary from Kasey Stockton and I was blown away! I already knew I loved her regency writings so it shouldn’t have come as a surprise. The chemistry between Hailey and Ryan is perfection right from the beginning. I was surprised to find that this book was only 170 pages because it had everything in it. Nothing was rushed and the romance moved at a fun and believable pace. All of the stars for this book and it will definitely be added to my re read worthy circle of books!
This is one of the best holiday contemporary romances I’ve read to date and I’ll be reading it again before the year is over! This book is part of a series, but can be read as a stand alone. I have not read the others in this series and had no problem following this story or the characters in it. I’m also thrilled because I’ll be adding the others to my collection before the year is out. I have no need for cable with Kasey’s Christmas line-up!!
5 stars and re read worthy for this book. If you need a little Christmas spice and entertainment in your life, this is the book for you!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the Author and all thoughts and opinions are my own!
November 20, 2021
(4.5 stars) - if you love someone...
... set them free
Hailey has been struggling to make it big as a singer, & Ryan is someone who could make it happen.
His attraction to her makes it tempting to be selfish, but he cares too much about her to hold her back. Not everyone feels the same way, however.
I really liked how the story pivots to some extent on the people around Hailey and those who care about her vs those who only care about what they can get from her. It likewise manages to talk about temptation without actually talking about it directly.
It's a relatively simple story, and an enjoyable one, yet it still manages to have some thoughtfulness to give it additional depth that kept me thinking about the story even after the warm fuzzies faded.
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
[I listened to the audiobook version: the narrator has a pleasant voice & did a great job of using different voices to help distinguish between the characters]
... set them free
Hailey has been struggling to make it big as a singer, & Ryan is someone who could make it happen.
His attraction to her makes it tempting to be selfish, but he cares too much about her to hold her back. Not everyone feels the same way, however.
I really liked how the story pivots to some extent on the people around Hailey and those who care about her vs those who only care about what they can get from her. It likewise manages to talk about temptation without actually talking about it directly.
It's a relatively simple story, and an enjoyable one, yet it still manages to have some thoughtfulness to give it additional depth that kept me thinking about the story even after the warm fuzzies faded.
*Romance level: passionate kisses, nothing graphic
[I listened to the audiobook version: the narrator has a pleasant voice & did a great job of using different voices to help distinguish between the characters]
November 20, 2020
This sweet read is just the ticket for holiday reading. Kasey's way with words will have you easy-breezing through the pages. And also make you want cronuts and cocoa.
Hailey is a nanny by day and struggling musician by night. Her musical dreams seem so far away. After posting an impromptu video of an unexpected Christmas song remake, she might just have to opportunity she's been begging for from an unlikely and unwanted source.
I liked everything about this story and the hero sounds like a hunk. What's not to like about a guy that throws a breakfast sandwich at your chest?
Thank you to the author for a copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
Hailey is a nanny by day and struggling musician by night. Her musical dreams seem so far away. After posting an impromptu video of an unexpected Christmas song remake, she might just have to opportunity she's been begging for from an unlikely and unwanted source.
I liked everything about this story and the hero sounds like a hunk. What's not to like about a guy that throws a breakfast sandwich at your chest?
Thank you to the author for a copy. All thoughts in this review are my own.
November 23, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
This whole series was such a fun, fast, & enjoyable read! Also can we just talk about how super cute these covers are! I am adding them to my list of paperbacks to buy 🥰
Love the colors & the art over all!
Enjoyed all the couples, the setting, & this collection! First reads by Kasey Stockton I will be checking out more novels & series by her.
🎄🎁❄️🤍
This whole series was such a fun, fast, & enjoyable read! Also can we just talk about how super cute these covers are! I am adding them to my list of paperbacks to buy 🥰
Love the colors & the art over all!
Enjoyed all the couples, the setting, & this collection! First reads by Kasey Stockton I will be checking out more novels & series by her.
🎄🎁❄️🤍
December 25, 2025
This was a quick holiday read with all the feels. I really enjoyed the emotion filled story and the insights into the characters thoughts and feelings. I felt that the end was too rushed though. I would have loved some more tension before the resolution. It just didn’t grip me and have me on edge because it went so fast.
December 11, 2025
2,75/5⭐️
November 27, 2020
If you are anything like me and have an addiction to Hallmark Christmas movies, then this is the book for you! Stockton did really well perfecting the balance between all the characters. The hero was dashing, the heroine was witty and compassionate (two characteristics that don’t usually fit into one character) and all of the side characters were delightful as well.
This book was a quick, relaxing read. Not enough angst to stress you out, but just enough to keep you hooked.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I also recommend her other Christmas books- they are just as engaging and fun to read!!!
This book was a quick, relaxing read. Not enough angst to stress you out, but just enough to keep you hooked.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I also recommend her other Christmas books- they are just as engaging and fun to read!!!
November 30, 2020
Do you love Christmas Hallmark movies? Do you love Christmas? Do you love romance? Do you love a quick me up? If you answered yes to any of the above, you simply must pick up this book! I have read several of Kasey’s Regency romances but hadn’t yet had the chance to read one of her contemporaries. I’m so glad I finally did and now her others have been bumped up on my list! This book was just so sweet.
I loved the meet cute—the suit! The top of the head! The greasy sandwich! All of that was so good. You must read to know what I’m talking about because that’s all I’m sayin’.
I loved our sweet heroine, Hailey, and her kindness. I appreciated that she put in so much time and work for her dream but was also dedicated to her job and a genuinely kind person. I also liked that she stood up for herself and spoke her mind when it mattered. In addition to that, however, I loved that both protagonists were certainly flawed. They were not perfect but they were real and I loved it.
Ryan, our hero hunk grew on me. I maybe didn’t like him right at first, but after a chapter or so, I was hooked. I liked that he wised up and humbled himself when Hailey said it mattered to her. Also, there are some good swoony moments where I was really feeling the romantic tension!
I liked the heartfelt, honest conversations and banter, the personalities (even Hailey’s roommate is awesome), and cute little Kendra! The end of the last chapter threw me for a loop a little—it did not appear to be the happy ending I envisioned! But thank heavens for epilogues. It still didn’t end exactly as I thought it would but, I’ve decided, I like the way it did end.
Also, the several food references made me happy. I now desperately want a greasy crescent sandwich as well as a cronut with a tall glass of hot chocolate. Thanks for including that good stuff, Kasey!
The only thing I wish we had in this book was more of the romance between Hailey and Ryan. But even as it was, it was adorable! A perfectly sweet romance. Not too cheesy bit still Hallmark-y. In fact, I think it’s better than Hallmark. Do yourself a favor and read this cute book this year for Christmas.
* I received an ARC of this book, with the option to review as desired. All opinions are totally my own.
I loved the meet cute—the suit! The top of the head! The greasy sandwich! All of that was so good. You must read to know what I’m talking about because that’s all I’m sayin’.
I loved our sweet heroine, Hailey, and her kindness. I appreciated that she put in so much time and work for her dream but was also dedicated to her job and a genuinely kind person. I also liked that she stood up for herself and spoke her mind when it mattered. In addition to that, however, I loved that both protagonists were certainly flawed. They were not perfect but they were real and I loved it.
Ryan, our hero hunk grew on me. I maybe didn’t like him right at first, but after a chapter or so, I was hooked. I liked that he wised up and humbled himself when Hailey said it mattered to her. Also, there are some good swoony moments where I was really feeling the romantic tension!
I liked the heartfelt, honest conversations and banter, the personalities (even Hailey’s roommate is awesome), and cute little Kendra! The end of the last chapter threw me for a loop a little—it did not appear to be the happy ending I envisioned! But thank heavens for epilogues. It still didn’t end exactly as I thought it would but, I’ve decided, I like the way it did end.
Also, the several food references made me happy. I now desperately want a greasy crescent sandwich as well as a cronut with a tall glass of hot chocolate. Thanks for including that good stuff, Kasey!
The only thing I wish we had in this book was more of the romance between Hailey and Ryan. But even as it was, it was adorable! A perfectly sweet romance. Not too cheesy bit still Hallmark-y. In fact, I think it’s better than Hallmark. Do yourself a favor and read this cute book this year for Christmas.
* I received an ARC of this book, with the option to review as desired. All opinions are totally my own.
November 16, 2020
You better believe that I dropped everything I was doing so that I could read this book. Ever since I saw Melodies and Mistletoe, I knew that I wanted to read it! It looked super cute and reminded me of a Hallmark movie. Melodies and Mistletoe is about Hailey Grant as she dreams of becoming a famous musician. And Ryan Bierman who has the ability to make her dreams come true.
Hailey was such a feisty character, she was a lot of fun! She had started out as a nanny, so it was really cute to see her with Kendra, the girl she nannied for. Kendra was really sweet and you could tell that Haily really cared for her. I loved Hailey. She was stubborn but she was also kind. It was fun to read about her!
Ryan came off as kind of a jerk, but that didn’t last really long. He was actually a nice guy and he was just trying to get back on his feet. It was sweet to see him play with Kendra. I thought that it was so cute how quickly he fell for Hailey
Hailey and Ryan were a lovely couple. But they had to get over their first impressions of each other. Hailey had to get past her fear of rejection and trust that Ryan knew what he was doing. Ryan had to learn to fight for Hailey. They also had to work out the problems with Hailey’s job as a nanny for Kendra. I was intrigued the whole time and I couldn’t put it down as I read about Ryan and Hailey falling in love.
Melodies and Mistletoe was a cute and sweet book! It was exactly what I hoped for and it definitely put me in the holiday spirit. I would totally recommend it! Melodies and Mistletoe is a stand alone, clean Christmas romance book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
Hailey was such a feisty character, she was a lot of fun! She had started out as a nanny, so it was really cute to see her with Kendra, the girl she nannied for. Kendra was really sweet and you could tell that Haily really cared for her. I loved Hailey. She was stubborn but she was also kind. It was fun to read about her!
Ryan came off as kind of a jerk, but that didn’t last really long. He was actually a nice guy and he was just trying to get back on his feet. It was sweet to see him play with Kendra. I thought that it was so cute how quickly he fell for Hailey
Hailey and Ryan were a lovely couple. But they had to get over their first impressions of each other. Hailey had to get past her fear of rejection and trust that Ryan knew what he was doing. Ryan had to learn to fight for Hailey. They also had to work out the problems with Hailey’s job as a nanny for Kendra. I was intrigued the whole time and I couldn’t put it down as I read about Ryan and Hailey falling in love.
Melodies and Mistletoe was a cute and sweet book! It was exactly what I hoped for and it definitely put me in the holiday spirit. I would totally recommend it! Melodies and Mistletoe is a stand alone, clean Christmas romance book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion, I was not required to write a positive review.
November 24, 2020
Nanny by Day Musician by Night
I loved this cute contemporary story by Kasey Stockton. She just amazes me because I love her Regency stories and she does just as awesome a job with her contemporary ones.
Hailey Grant is trying so hard to get someone to notice her in the music field. When she loses her gig that she went to after her day job as a nanny, she thought she was at a dead end. When her roommate suggests she does a funky rendition of a popular Christmas song to post on the internet, she never expected to get noticed.
Ryan Bierman is back in NY to help get his family's music magazine back on track. He is sent a copy of the music video from his co worker who suggest he post something on his music critique platform about it. The singer grabs his attention as well as pulls on his heart. After posting the critique he really wants to meet her so he offers her a great music opportunity.
I love how these two literally hit it off as Hailey had knocked her guitar case into Ryan when she was rushing to get to her music gig. The banter between them had me laughing and this is a book I just couldn't put down.
Loved the touches of Christmas throughout the story from the Christmas movies to the wassail which I now really want to make.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
I loved this cute contemporary story by Kasey Stockton. She just amazes me because I love her Regency stories and she does just as awesome a job with her contemporary ones.
Hailey Grant is trying so hard to get someone to notice her in the music field. When she loses her gig that she went to after her day job as a nanny, she thought she was at a dead end. When her roommate suggests she does a funky rendition of a popular Christmas song to post on the internet, she never expected to get noticed.
Ryan Bierman is back in NY to help get his family's music magazine back on track. He is sent a copy of the music video from his co worker who suggest he post something on his music critique platform about it. The singer grabs his attention as well as pulls on his heart. After posting the critique he really wants to meet her so he offers her a great music opportunity.
I love how these two literally hit it off as Hailey had knocked her guitar case into Ryan when she was rushing to get to her music gig. The banter between them had me laughing and this is a book I just couldn't put down.
Loved the touches of Christmas throughout the story from the Christmas movies to the wassail which I now really want to make.
I received a copy of this book from the author and this is my honest unbiased review.
November 28, 2020
Now for a contemporary romance for a wonderful new author! It has all the feels of a Hallmark or Lifetime movie!
Hailey is a talented musician who wants to be discovered but no one seems to be noticing the talent she has until she "rewrites" a Christmas classic and her friend puts it up on youtube. Hailey works as a nanny to a high-powered couple in New York but really dreams of becoming a music star.
Ryan is from music royalty. He knows talent when he hears it and he is sure that Hailey Grant is going to be a star. He is fascinated by not only her talent but who she is. She is more down to earth than most that he has met in the music community. That intrigues him and he wants to get to know her more. Ryan also happens to be the uncle to the Kendra, the girl Hailey nannies for.
I really enjoyed reading the story and it was a wonderful story to start the Christmas season with. It was a clean romance without foul language or other graphic details. It was very romantic and I loved the relationship that developed between Hailey and Ryan.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
Hailey is a talented musician who wants to be discovered but no one seems to be noticing the talent she has until she "rewrites" a Christmas classic and her friend puts it up on youtube. Hailey works as a nanny to a high-powered couple in New York but really dreams of becoming a music star.
Ryan is from music royalty. He knows talent when he hears it and he is sure that Hailey Grant is going to be a star. He is fascinated by not only her talent but who she is. She is more down to earth than most that he has met in the music community. That intrigues him and he wants to get to know her more. Ryan also happens to be the uncle to the Kendra, the girl Hailey nannies for.
I really enjoyed reading the story and it was a wonderful story to start the Christmas season with. It was a clean romance without foul language or other graphic details. It was very romantic and I loved the relationship that developed between Hailey and Ryan.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
November 18, 2020
Contemporary romance fans drop everything and go get this book because trust me, it's that amazing! This is the first contemporary romance I have read by Kasey Stockton; I am a fan of her Regency romances and since I also love a good contemporary story, I jumped at the opportunity to read this and am so glad that I did. The story is maybe Hallmark-esc, but so much better (not cheesy). I also like that the ending didn't go exactly as I would have guessed and it had a wonderful epilogue that was very satisfying. Ryan and Hailey have excellent chemistry the entire book and I think that's what really hooked me. I just felt their connection and the author did a great job of creating moments for them.
The story takes place around the Christmas season and has some Christmas vibes, but it can be read anytime of the year in my personal opinion. If you are looking for a good clean read that will keep your attention, I highly recommend this story.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is definitely reread worthy for me.
The story takes place around the Christmas season and has some Christmas vibes, but it can be read anytime of the year in my personal opinion. If you are looking for a good clean read that will keep your attention, I highly recommend this story.
I received an advance reader copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. This is definitely reread worthy for me.
November 29, 2020
Hailey is like many artists working full time while trying to get noticed. She was lucky to get a well paying nanny job with a little girl she adores. Kendra is so funny with her bug obsession. At least her parents drew the line at buying her real bugs to take care of. Ryan wasn't that critical of Hailey's YouTube video. He only made one negative comment about how she could use some voice training, but Hailey was sensitive about it and almost didn't agree to his offer to play at his company party. I laughed when he accidentally hit her with his breakfast sandwich and she bought an extra large hot chocolate because he made a comment about too much sugar in the morning. I liked Hailey's culinary roommate Nikki with her love of Hallmark Christmas movies and all the yummy sounding food she prepared. I love NYC when it is decorated for the holidays. I've stopped at that bakery near the Rockefeller Center tree, but haven't been to the High Line, so I'll have to check it out next time I visit. This was a sweet and funny holiday romance.
December 7, 2020
Melodies and Mistletoe by Kasey Stockton (4.5 stars)
This was a sweet, clean, romantic love story and had a unique plot line. I truly enjoyed this book! There are some wonderful side character and we come to care for them, as well: Kendra the little girl that Hailey nannies and Nikki, her roommate are both real and delightful.
Lots of Christmas-y moments and nothing too nail-bitingly tense, just a lovely Christmas romance.
Something else I really appreciated was that no one had to “break character” for the HEA to happen. (Something that really irks me in romances is that sometimes one, or more, of the supporting characters has to entirely change personality for the HEA to be able to happen. Not so in this novel!)
There wasn’t insta-love, just attraction, which felt more authentic than insta-love can feel. (Insta-love being another pet peeve of mine.) Both characters overcome obstacles in a natural, unselfish way.
The entire book was well-written and enjoyable.
*poor, **ok, ***good, **** very good, *****something special
This was a sweet, clean, romantic love story and had a unique plot line. I truly enjoyed this book! There are some wonderful side character and we come to care for them, as well: Kendra the little girl that Hailey nannies and Nikki, her roommate are both real and delightful.
Lots of Christmas-y moments and nothing too nail-bitingly tense, just a lovely Christmas romance.
Something else I really appreciated was that no one had to “break character” for the HEA to happen. (Something that really irks me in romances is that sometimes one, or more, of the supporting characters has to entirely change personality for the HEA to be able to happen. Not so in this novel!)
There wasn’t insta-love, just attraction, which felt more authentic than insta-love can feel. (Insta-love being another pet peeve of mine.) Both characters overcome obstacles in a natural, unselfish way.
The entire book was well-written and enjoyable.
*poor, **ok, ***good, **** very good, *****something special
December 22, 2020
Christmas books just make me happy! This one read like a Hallmark movie. I loved the way the author wrote it. Her characters are great. The whole thing just felt like it could be real.
I loved Hailey in this book. It was almost like she could have stepped off the pages of the book. She’s a nanny for a super sweet girl. And her life is just good. Except for her dream of performing. But that seems like it could be a reality, if Ryan has anything to say about it. I loved Hailey’s loyalty to Ryan’s sister who she nanny’d for. But sometimes, a girl just has to folow her dreams.
Ryan’s a great guy. I loved the way he goes after what he wants. In this case, a music career for Hailey. He really stuck his neck on the line for her several times in this one.
There were so many great things to love about this book. I really loved the photo shoot scene and the way Hailey saved the day. I’m going to have to read all of the books in this series! But, these stand alone just fine too.
I borrowed a copy of Melodies and Mistletoe using my Kindle Unlimited subscription. All op
I loved Hailey in this book. It was almost like she could have stepped off the pages of the book. She’s a nanny for a super sweet girl. And her life is just good. Except for her dream of performing. But that seems like it could be a reality, if Ryan has anything to say about it. I loved Hailey’s loyalty to Ryan’s sister who she nanny’d for. But sometimes, a girl just has to folow her dreams.
Ryan’s a great guy. I loved the way he goes after what he wants. In this case, a music career for Hailey. He really stuck his neck on the line for her several times in this one.
There were so many great things to love about this book. I really loved the photo shoot scene and the way Hailey saved the day. I’m going to have to read all of the books in this series! But, these stand alone just fine too.
I borrowed a copy of Melodies and Mistletoe using my Kindle Unlimited subscription. All op
November 24, 2020
This is such a fun, quick read. Perfect for those who want a light but good Christmas story. I hate to call it a Hallmark Christmas story in a book because for some that would make people's eye roll. Some movies can be cheesy but when done just right no cheesyness or need to eye roll. This book was a definite sweet Christmas story with no need to roll eyes or cring at the cheesyness. I think Kasey Stockton wrote the characters as very human. The conflict in keeping the two apart was good and believable. I loved the banter between Hailey & Ryan. I totally get Hailey with her pride, insecurity in some things and light sarcasam with Ryan. The story had a good flow. Though I mentioned it was a quick read I didn't feel rushed or that the story was abrupt. I only wish their was more of the story! I would happily read more & gone deeper into their romance and other characters. If Carter gets a story I'd read that!
March 22, 2021
This is such a warm, sweet holiday story, but don't be mistaken, if you're looking for a feel-good story, you can definitely read it anytime of the year! I usually read Ms. Stockton's Regency stories, so this was my first contemporary. Really enjoyed it! This is Hailey and Ryan's story. I especially love the character of Hailey, so kind and sweet and dedicated and was not afraid to stand up for herself. Ryan was a bit harder to like in the beginning, but definitely grew on me as the story progressed. So glad that Hailey wasn't afraid to stand up to him! They had really witty and fun banter between them throughout, it was great fun to read! If you're in the mood for a sweet and cute Hallmark-like story, then you definitely want to pick this up. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received a complimentary copy from the author and am voluntarily leaving my review.
December 3, 2021
While the book takes place at the holidays there isn’t a ton of emphasis on the holidays themselves. I enjoyed the plot. Amberlee was not my favorite character. But I loved the main characters (Hailey and Ryan). Hailey really jumped to conclusions in the beginning. I had a hard time believing she wouldn’t listen to the whole video made by Ryan. She jumped to unfounded conclusions. She didn’t listen to the whole message even when she jumped ahead and listened to the end of the message. She was being pretty stubborn considering he offered her a gig.
The love story itself was very cute. I loved how understanding Ryan was. I loved that he didn’t put his own feelings before Hailey’s needs and dreams.
The love story itself was very cute. I loved how understanding Ryan was. I loved that he didn’t put his own feelings before Hailey’s needs and dreams.
January 5, 2023
OK, out of the three in this series, this one definitely takes the cake as my favorite! I could not put it down. Hailey and Ryan had to get together within a 24hr reading period. There was no negotiation XD I loved the two of them together, especially since they got off to such a bumpy start when he critiques her singing. Both Hailey and Ryan's interactions with his niece, Kendra, are ADORABLE and completely heart melting. Did NOT see the little twist coming and definitely had the whole, rounded mouth, "she did not just do that" reaction. If you want to know what I'm talking about, go read the book. You'll love it! XD What better way to finish up my holiday reading than with a mistletoe kiss.
November 24, 2020
Such a cute, fun contemporary romance that is just as good as a Hallmark movie if not better!
Hailey is looking for a big break in her music career but does not expect it to come from such an unlikely source as Ryan. I loved the slow burn romance and the chemistry between Hailey and Ryan is fabulous. I worried a little about how things would work out in the end but the ending was perfect!
This is the perfect book to get you in the Christmas mood so turn on a fire, make some wassail, and curl up with this fantastic read!
I received a complimentary copy from the author but it in no way affected my review.
Hailey is looking for a big break in her music career but does not expect it to come from such an unlikely source as Ryan. I loved the slow burn romance and the chemistry between Hailey and Ryan is fabulous. I worried a little about how things would work out in the end but the ending was perfect!
This is the perfect book to get you in the Christmas mood so turn on a fire, make some wassail, and curl up with this fantastic read!
I received a complimentary copy from the author but it in no way affected my review.
December 13, 2020
Cute, clean Christmas romance.
My favorite thing about this story might well be the relationship between Hailey and Kendra. Hailey is the nanny to her and their exchanges are just so sweet. That said, the romance is good too. Ryan has immediate attraction and interest. Hailey has the attraction but not so much the interest so the story has to get over that hurdle. I love that Ryan wanted to put Hailey's dreams above his own desires and helped her fulfill them.
Also, I really want to hear these songs that Hailey sings. I'm not a huge fan of minor keys so I'd love to listen to know if I'd love them too.
No sex, language or violence
My favorite thing about this story might well be the relationship between Hailey and Kendra. Hailey is the nanny to her and their exchanges are just so sweet. That said, the romance is good too. Ryan has immediate attraction and interest. Hailey has the attraction but not so much the interest so the story has to get over that hurdle. I love that Ryan wanted to put Hailey's dreams above his own desires and helped her fulfill them.
Also, I really want to hear these songs that Hailey sings. I'm not a huge fan of minor keys so I'd love to listen to know if I'd love them too.
No sex, language or violence
December 28, 2021
Like book 2, this one is slow, mostly dancing around the issue of the couple's unstated attraction to one another.
She's an unknown musician, and he's got connections left, right and center to the music industry from his present job in charge of a music magazine, and his previous job at a record label. They connect at first over YouTube videos, and then through the massive co-incidence that he turns out to be the uncle of the little girl she's a nanny to.
The entire book would vanish if she didn't completely pivot from wanting whatever help she could get to get her big break, to wanting nothing to do with this guy who offers her the big break on a platter...
There were plenty of beautiful interactions between the kid, the couple, the dog, and Christmas-y stuff.
She's an unknown musician, and he's got connections left, right and center to the music industry from his present job in charge of a music magazine, and his previous job at a record label. They connect at first over YouTube videos, and then through the massive co-incidence that he turns out to be the uncle of the little girl she's a nanny to.
The entire book would vanish if she didn't completely pivot from wanting whatever help she could get to get her big break, to wanting nothing to do with this guy who offers her the big break on a platter...
There were plenty of beautiful interactions between the kid, the couple, the dog, and Christmas-y stuff.
November 16, 2020
I like hallmark movies, but this is better. No bad acting. I honestly loved this book more then I anticipated. Ryan and Hailey are so good together and so likable. I wondered at one point how it would play out and was wondering if I’d be disappointed, but I wasn’t. I won’t spoil it for you. So many great scenes, true chemistry and plenty of facts as to why they like each other. I hate it when people just like each other, despite little interaction and little in common. Loved it and can’t wait to read more of this Author’s books in this genre.
November 18, 2020
I absolutely looked this book!
I’m only familiar with this author’s regency works, and I’m delightfully surprised that she’s as good an author in contemporary works, as she is in regency works.
This was a really great book. I loved reading about Ryan and Hailey, and found it cute how Ryan fell hard for Hailey very early on. I’m glad in a way how this book didn’t have an expected ending, as I’m happy Hailey followed her dream and Ryan didn’t stand in her way.
I definitely recommend this book to all.
I’m only familiar with this author’s regency works, and I’m delightfully surprised that she’s as good an author in contemporary works, as she is in regency works.
This was a really great book. I loved reading about Ryan and Hailey, and found it cute how Ryan fell hard for Hailey very early on. I’m glad in a way how this book didn’t have an expected ending, as I’m happy Hailey followed her dream and Ryan didn’t stand in her way.
I definitely recommend this book to all.
November 18, 2020
The characters were well done. The main characters were given strengths and fears. The pacing was good and the plot well worked out.
issues with the content:
“Nothing screamed pathetic like wannabes trying to get noticed among millions of other people on the internet.” ––Not only inaccurate, but a horrible snobby attitude.
Prepping for a print magazine a few weeks before it goes out––Print magazines work 3-6 months ahead of publication date. Digital ones can have closer deadlines.
Why the need to go to LA for a recording contract? There are many recording studios in NYC.
issues with the content:
“Nothing screamed pathetic like wannabes trying to get noticed among millions of other people on the internet.” ––Not only inaccurate, but a horrible snobby attitude.
Prepping for a print magazine a few weeks before it goes out––Print magazines work 3-6 months ahead of publication date. Digital ones can have closer deadlines.
Why the need to go to LA for a recording contract? There are many recording studios in NYC.
November 30, 2020
I enjoyed reading this contemporary romance by Kasey Stockton. I like how Ryan and Hailey had a rough first meeting but I loved how Ryan didn’t give up on getting to know her and convincing her to sing for his company. I liked how Ryan was willing to let her go so she could fulfill her dream. I loved how they were a great couple and that they believed in each other and wanted each other to succeed.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
I received a complimentary book from publishers, publicists, and or authors. A review was not required and all opinions and ideas expressed are my own.
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