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Sunnyside Standalones
Friend or Mistlefoe
The only thing worse than not living out his Christmas rom-com fantasy is having his sworn enemy be the one to make all his holiday dreams come true.
Mingo Nevins
I’d rather roast my chestnuts over an open fire than spend a single second around Marley. So when that Grinch shows up at my apartment to hang out with my friends over Christmas break, I’m ready to deck his halls, if you know what I mean.
After he starts an argument with me, I take advantage of the mistletoe hanging above us to end it with an impulsive kiss to shut him up, once and for all. But I make one crucial miscalculation: Marley kisses to win, and I refuse to lose.
I guess that means we’re dating now?
Marley Garland
With a mistletoe kiss, Mingo moves from my naughty list right to the top of my to-do list. We may have started as enemies, but that doesn’t change the fact that I want him to jingle my bells and make it a white Christmas.
If I have my way, the road won’t be the only thing getting plowed tonight. But can we call a truce long enough to make it a not-so-silent night?
Friend or Mistlefoe is a standalone novel in the Sunnyside universe. This comedic enemies to lovers gay romance is full of holiday cheer and naughty Christmas banter. If you love cute sweetness, sexy fun, and no angst stories that will make you laugh and swoon, you’ll enjoy this festive HEA without cliffhangers.
Mingo Nevins
I’d rather roast my chestnuts over an open fire than spend a single second around Marley. So when that Grinch shows up at my apartment to hang out with my friends over Christmas break, I’m ready to deck his halls, if you know what I mean.
After he starts an argument with me, I take advantage of the mistletoe hanging above us to end it with an impulsive kiss to shut him up, once and for all. But I make one crucial miscalculation: Marley kisses to win, and I refuse to lose.
I guess that means we’re dating now?
Marley Garland
With a mistletoe kiss, Mingo moves from my naughty list right to the top of my to-do list. We may have started as enemies, but that doesn’t change the fact that I want him to jingle my bells and make it a white Christmas.
If I have my way, the road won’t be the only thing getting plowed tonight. But can we call a truce long enough to make it a not-so-silent night?
Friend or Mistlefoe is a standalone novel in the Sunnyside universe. This comedic enemies to lovers gay romance is full of holiday cheer and naughty Christmas banter. If you love cute sweetness, sexy fun, and no angst stories that will make you laugh and swoon, you’ll enjoy this festive HEA without cliffhangers.
198 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 18, 2022
91 people are currently reading
288 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 137 reviews
December 12, 2022
4**** stars
* :•☆ *:･ﾟ
This was ridiculously wonderful, full of snarky banter, Christmas puns, bad Santa jokes and all the romantic holiday fantasies coming true that let your hearts be light, merry and bright.
An absolutely endearing holiday read.
* :•☆ *:･ﾟ
side note: honestly, all the other almost couples/friends/enemies mentioned in this novella scream new series to me - esp this hockey player Wilder and the referee Truett. I’d love to read their story one day.
* :•☆ *:･ﾟ
We may have started as enemies, but that doesn’t change the fact that I want him to jingle my bells and make it a white Christmas.
This was ridiculously wonderful, full of snarky banter, Christmas puns, bad Santa jokes and all the romantic holiday fantasies coming true that let your hearts be light, merry and bright.
“Are you looking to get fa-la-la-la-laid tonight?” “It’s the time of giving, so you better give it to me good.”
“Keep it up and the Christmas tree won’t be the only thing with an angel on top of it.”
An absolutely endearing holiday read.
* :•☆ *:･ﾟ
side note: honestly, all the other almost couples/friends/enemies mentioned in this novella scream new series to me - esp this hockey player Wilder and the referee Truett. I’d love to read their story one day.
December 4, 2022
I don’t know what age are the guys in this book but to me they read like 16 years old girls. They fight for nothing (no reason at all) they pout, they stomp their feet and sometimes they cross their arms AND pout AND stomp their feet all at the same time. And then they suddenly bake and fuck and they’re sugary sweet and in love . When they weren’t obnoxious they were teeth-rotting corny, there was no middle ground. Oh, yeah, the Christmas puns were funny. Some of them .
Read
November 30, 2022DNF @ 34%
I couldn't get into it. *,Face palm*
I couldn't get into it. *,Face palm*
November 13, 2022
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
*ARC Review*
This book is rather short but still very sweet. It was kind of like a christmas Hallmark movie and therefore really lighthearted and enjoyable.
I liked the characters. There’s nothing better than when they slowly realize that they didn’t hate each other but actually like each other. Gets me every time 🥹
But the best parts about this book were the naughty christmas puns and the mugs. Even funnier that these mugs really exist and are up for sale 😂 (I honestly consider buying one lol😂)
I definitely enjoyed reading this book🤗
[I received an digital arc and this is my honest opinion]
*ARC Review*
This book is rather short but still very sweet. It was kind of like a christmas Hallmark movie and therefore really lighthearted and enjoyable.
I liked the characters. There’s nothing better than when they slowly realize that they didn’t hate each other but actually like each other. Gets me every time 🥹
But the best parts about this book were the naughty christmas puns and the mugs. Even funnier that these mugs really exist and are up for sale 😂 (I honestly consider buying one lol😂)
I definitely enjoyed reading this book🤗
[I received an digital arc and this is my honest opinion]
November 14, 2022
This book was hot chocolate levels of heat with gingerbread man-on-man action, d!cked halls, jingled balls and slicked chimneys. Mingo and Marley were trapped in a blizzard of intense dislike, each man having an adverse reaction to everything exiting their mistlefoe’s mouth.
What’s the best way to stuff your enemy’s turkey? Use your own mouth and fill that cavity right up. You can’t argue when there are little drummer boys covering up the sound of snark. From the first rough, demanding kiss under the mistletoe until the last kiss under a different mistletoe a year down the road, Mingo and Marley take you on a holiday rooooaaad of Christmas puns, fireplace shenanigans, piper piped pipes and Hallmark Christmas Movies “After-Dark”-worthy levels of swoon.
Ariella Zoelle is the reigning Queen of Sexy Christmas Puns, hilarious characters finding love and levels of heat that would have Frosty melting before greenhouse door was even closed. This review is short, sweet and to the point – like a candy cane that you’ve been working on for a bit. Fans of Ariella’s writing will lap this up like fresh milk from the maids who a’milked it and new readers will leap like lords for her other books.
Ok. I’m done now. I’m not fa-la-la-la-lying.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Friend or Mistlefoe
Ariella Zoelle
What’s the best way to stuff your enemy’s turkey? Use your own mouth and fill that cavity right up. You can’t argue when there are little drummer boys covering up the sound of snark. From the first rough, demanding kiss under the mistletoe until the last kiss under a different mistletoe a year down the road, Mingo and Marley take you on a holiday rooooaaad of Christmas puns, fireplace shenanigans, piper piped pipes and Hallmark Christmas Movies “After-Dark”-worthy levels of swoon.
Ariella Zoelle is the reigning Queen of Sexy Christmas Puns, hilarious characters finding love and levels of heat that would have Frosty melting before greenhouse door was even closed. This review is short, sweet and to the point – like a candy cane that you’ve been working on for a bit. Fans of Ariella’s writing will lap this up like fresh milk from the maids who a’milked it and new readers will leap like lords for her other books.
Ok. I’m done now. I’m not fa-la-la-la-lying.
I received this book as an Advanced Reader Copy and, as always, my review is unpaid and honest.
Friend or Mistlefoe
Ariella Zoelle
November 21, 2022
Marley and Mingo are the ultimate Christmas time couple! These enemies to lovers were hilariously into each other even when they bickered like little old hens. Once the cat is out of the bag that they are both Christmas super fans, well the ice begins to thaw and the “hate” boning can begin! I loved every single Christmas pun this book had, and there are many!! Such fun these two had trying to outdo each other with the best ones. But when you look past the humour this short and sweet story was very hallmark and stole my heart. It’s full of swoony moments, under mistletoe and in front of fires!
December 31, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
I honestly liked Marley a lot, and appreciated how he inveigled himself into Mingo’s affections by continuing to reveal himself as a decent man. He has a high degree of esteem for himself, as well as Mingo, to Mingo’s immense shock. Mingo believed that he’d been the butt of Marley’s disdain for three years, yet it took him little time to reorganize his notions about their growing connection, in and out of the bedroom.
For me, the sexytimes happened way faster than the usual enemies-to-lovers trope. I hadn’t had any time to experience Mingo’s frustrations with Marley, who his entire friend group likes robustly, only a few internal comments about his feelings. Mingo seems petty and full of sour grapes for his juvenile desire to put Marley in his place, a feat he never quite manages.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
I honestly liked Marley a lot, and appreciated how he inveigled himself into Mingo’s affections by continuing to reveal himself as a decent man. He has a high degree of esteem for himself, as well as Mingo, to Mingo’s immense shock. Mingo believed that he’d been the butt of Marley’s disdain for three years, yet it took him little time to reorganize his notions about their growing connection, in and out of the bedroom.
For me, the sexytimes happened way faster than the usual enemies-to-lovers trope. I hadn’t had any time to experience Mingo’s frustrations with Marley, who his entire friend group likes robustly, only a few internal comments about his feelings. Mingo seems petty and full of sour grapes for his juvenile desire to put Marley in his place, a feat he never quite manages.
Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.
November 14, 2022
Friend or Mistlefoe was an insanely fun read, seriously laugh out loud!! Enemies to lovers with sooo many Christmas puns! Mingo and Marley both adore Christmas. I loved the way Marley antagonized Mingo every chance he got, sooo freakin funny. Mingo and Marley’s romance were so satisfying to read. Sweet and steamy, fantastic hate s3x and every Christmas cliche possible make this a fantastic story. Really well written with fast pacing. Couldn’t put it down!
January 23, 2023
Cute Christmas themed story.
Friend or Mistlefoe is a great enemies-to-lovers story that takes place at Christmastime. Marley Garland rubbed Mingo Nevins the wrong way right from the first time they met. For three years they’ve existed as enemies – mostly on Mingo’s side. Marley has never understood why Mingo dislikes him so much. A kiss under the mistletoe sets off an explosive attraction that morphs into more.
The two guys find that they both share a love for Christmas and all of the romantic notions that can go along with the holiday. As they spend more time together, they discover how deep their shared interests are and a romance is soon underway.
The naughty Christmas puns are plentiful and witty and I had a very enjoyable time reading this story.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
Friend or Mistlefoe is a great enemies-to-lovers story that takes place at Christmastime. Marley Garland rubbed Mingo Nevins the wrong way right from the first time they met. For three years they’ve existed as enemies – mostly on Mingo’s side. Marley has never understood why Mingo dislikes him so much. A kiss under the mistletoe sets off an explosive attraction that morphs into more.
The two guys find that they both share a love for Christmas and all of the romantic notions that can go along with the holiday. As they spend more time together, they discover how deep their shared interests are and a romance is soon underway.
The naughty Christmas puns are plentiful and witty and I had a very enjoyable time reading this story.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
March 29, 2023
Christmas Puns Galore!
The whole book is enemies to lovers Christmas Hallmark movie with sexy Christmas puns! I loved Mingo and Marley verbally sparing throughout. Also, I need all of Mingos cups! 😂
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
The whole book is enemies to lovers Christmas Hallmark movie with sexy Christmas puns! I loved Mingo and Marley verbally sparing throughout. Also, I need all of Mingos cups! 😂
Verse: No
HEA: Yes
dnf
December 5, 2022DNF @ 70% because
1. That’s not enemies to lovers and it forces too much to try and be it
2. I don’t feel the chemistry
3. Too! many! puns!
4. Must half the chapters end with a question????
1. That’s not enemies to lovers and it forces too much to try and be it
2. I don’t feel the chemistry
3. Too! many! puns!
4. Must half the chapters end with a question????
November 16, 2022
Rating: 3.5 stars
This entire book takes place mostly over the span of about 2-3 days, and then sort of glazes over some time until Christmas, and then time hops for the epilogue. Since Mingo and Marley go from bickering to hot and heavy in the first chapter or two, their romance has a very instalove-y feel to it.
I really liked the Christmas puns and wordplay, but it got so gratuitous at times that it interrupted the flow of the story, especially during the ... we'll say love scenes so I don't get censored, haha. Also Mingo was weirdly hung up on hating Marley for what felt like no reason? I'm really glad we get chapters from Marley's POV as well to even things out.
Despite the wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am (thank you sir?) pace, this was still a very hot and hilarious holiday read that has more of a novella feel than a full novel. I love that it's basically a Hallmark movie if Hallmark had, like, a Hallmark After Dark channel, haha! As a Hallmark Christmas movie enthusiast myself, I really loved the little Christmas rom-com moments sprinkled throughout this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
This entire book takes place mostly over the span of about 2-3 days, and then sort of glazes over some time until Christmas, and then time hops for the epilogue. Since Mingo and Marley go from bickering to hot and heavy in the first chapter or two, their romance has a very instalove-y feel to it.
I really liked the Christmas puns and wordplay, but it got so gratuitous at times that it interrupted the flow of the story, especially during the ... we'll say love scenes so I don't get censored, haha. Also Mingo was weirdly hung up on hating Marley for what felt like no reason? I'm really glad we get chapters from Marley's POV as well to even things out.
Despite the wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am (thank you sir?) pace, this was still a very hot and hilarious holiday read that has more of a novella feel than a full novel. I love that it's basically a Hallmark movie if Hallmark had, like, a Hallmark After Dark channel, haha! As a Hallmark Christmas movie enthusiast myself, I really loved the little Christmas rom-com moments sprinkled throughout this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are unbiased and my own.
Like this review?
Check out more of my reviews on my blog, Elley the Book Otter
November 22, 2022
ARC REVIEW
This is the story of Mingo and Marley and their 3 years of hating each other, or well, their 3 years of foreplay.
I read some of the books in the series so I had certain expectations.
I expected to swoon, I did.
I expected to laugh, I did. No no no, I actually thought it would be funny, but it was hilarious!
It did exceed my expectations.
I really really recommend this story if you want to turn your mood and have a few hours of laughter and joy.
I really needed it!
This "I can't stand you"-to-lovers has the most delightful banter, the funniest Christmas mugs, countless of Christmas naughty jokes, and probably all the Christmas romantic dreams coming true you can think of. And Japanese homemade food, cookies, hot chocolate, a fireplace, lights and lots of good memories and new joy.
Seriously, this morning I walked with my son to school and I couldn't stop myself from laughing about this:
“Are you afraid I’ll find out about Bob?”
“Bob? Who’s Bob?”
“You know, your battery-operated boyfriend.”
And this was only the beginning.
This is the story of Mingo and Marley and their 3 years of hating each other, or well, their 3 years of foreplay.
I read some of the books in the series so I had certain expectations.
I expected to swoon, I did.
I expected to laugh, I did. No no no, I actually thought it would be funny, but it was hilarious!
It did exceed my expectations.
I really really recommend this story if you want to turn your mood and have a few hours of laughter and joy.
I really needed it!
This "I can't stand you"-to-lovers has the most delightful banter, the funniest Christmas mugs, countless of Christmas naughty jokes, and probably all the Christmas romantic dreams coming true you can think of. And Japanese homemade food, cookies, hot chocolate, a fireplace, lights and lots of good memories and new joy.
Seriously, this morning I walked with my son to school and I couldn't stop myself from laughing about this:
“Are you afraid I’ll find out about Bob?”
“Bob? Who’s Bob?”
“You know, your battery-operated boyfriend.”
And this was only the beginning.
November 13, 2022
Mistlefoe
We all know this author creates steamy fluffy fun romances… and typically I enjoy them big time! But I struggled a bit with Friend or Mistlefoe…cuz Mingo. Wow, was he high strung and juvenile. I just never found the charm. And all of Mingo was counterbalanced with the perfection of Marley… which was why Mingo resented him in the first place! As to a relationship… it moves from enemies to boyfriends and maybe fiancés in 3 days. Usually not a problem for me but I don’t think Mingo was really into it other than the physical side.
Now I can say Mingo’s Christmas mugs made this book for me. I was thrilled to see they exist and are for sale by the author!!!! I want one of each!
I think fans of the author and those looking for a quick and easy holiday read will enjoy this. Lots and lots of Christmas puns and wordplay throughout…adding up to wit and clever writing.
We all know this author creates steamy fluffy fun romances… and typically I enjoy them big time! But I struggled a bit with Friend or Mistlefoe…cuz Mingo. Wow, was he high strung and juvenile. I just never found the charm. And all of Mingo was counterbalanced with the perfection of Marley… which was why Mingo resented him in the first place! As to a relationship… it moves from enemies to boyfriends and maybe fiancés in 3 days. Usually not a problem for me but I don’t think Mingo was really into it other than the physical side.
Now I can say Mingo’s Christmas mugs made this book for me. I was thrilled to see they exist and are for sale by the author!!!! I want one of each!
I think fans of the author and those looking for a quick and easy holiday read will enjoy this. Lots and lots of Christmas puns and wordplay throughout…adding up to wit and clever writing.
November 14, 2022
Loved it and loved all the cheesy Christmas sayings. Mingo doesn’t like Marley as he thinks he is cocky and arrogant. When Mingo’s friends are over to marathon watch Christmas movies, Marley tags along. After an explosive kiss, this story took off. Loved the chemistry between them and Mingo realizing that maybe Marley is not as bad as he thought. Loved the epilogue and cannot wait for more by this author.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
November 16, 2022
Insta Festive Fun! This was definitely a snarky, sassy, spicy, sweet Holiday read! Mingo is over the top snarky and sassy and has set his sights on well riling Marley the Christmas grump up! I could not stop laughing at all his naughty innuendos! It was quite an effective way of communicating. But wow that aggressive mistletoe kiss! Now that Marley could not ignore or resist getting a little more of! This was so much cheesy fun. All the Holiday Cliches wrapped up in a spicy and fun read.
December 22, 2022
For someone who hates the holidays…
I sure do like this book. Very, VERY cute and sweet. They had incredibly punny banter and I was here for it. So glad the universe keeps building, and I really can’t wait to see if Wintervale gets its own series. I’m heavily invested in the characters there!
I sure do like this book. Very, VERY cute and sweet. They had incredibly punny banter and I was here for it. So glad the universe keeps building, and I really can’t wait to see if Wintervale gets its own series. I’m heavily invested in the characters there!
December 27, 2022
This was such a fun, sweet and entertaining story. I adored Mingo instantly and his mixed emotions with Marley, the push & pull between them was great. The love and hate, teasing and competition between them.
All of the chemistry and heat between them, the kisses under the mistletoe and all of their passion. I adored the Christmas Puns, so many great oneliners and humor throughout. They made me smile constantly and just very much the romcom vibes.
Baking cookies, the Christmas decorations, movies and dancing at the ball. Has all of the romance and adorable moments that I love, these two had a wonderful love and hate that made for a great dynamic.
I enjoyed seeing their realisations and how they have so much in common they hadn't seen before. Being able to find comfort and love together, the side cast are lovely too and of course the cat too.
Overall it was a perfect Christmas read, gives all the hallmark movie feels and happily ever after!🎄
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*
All of the chemistry and heat between them, the kisses under the mistletoe and all of their passion. I adored the Christmas Puns, so many great oneliners and humor throughout. They made me smile constantly and just very much the romcom vibes.
Baking cookies, the Christmas decorations, movies and dancing at the ball. Has all of the romance and adorable moments that I love, these two had a wonderful love and hate that made for a great dynamic.
I enjoyed seeing their realisations and how they have so much in common they hadn't seen before. Being able to find comfort and love together, the side cast are lovely too and of course the cat too.
Overall it was a perfect Christmas read, gives all the hallmark movie feels and happily ever after!🎄
*ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review*
November 13, 2022
This book was the quintessential holiday movie in book form (with some extra naughty bits)! If you love watching Christmas Hallmark rom-coms you will adore this book. Every clichéd holiday romantic scenario you can think of is included in this book and they were all awesome! Cookie baking, Christmas movie watching, major decorations, holiday window display viewing and more were some of the fun activities Mingo and Marley got themselves into.
This book essentially takes place in only a few days so I found it a little hard to believe enemies to lovers would change as fast as it did in this novella, and had a little bit of a hard time at the beginning as there wasn’t much background shared. Mingo was also a bit frustrating at times not letting go of things Marley had done in the past.
However, this book was still a fun and quick laugh out loud read! Some things I loved about this book:
-The banter between Marley and Mingo is *chefs kiss*! The way they bickered back and forth during intimate scenes was hilarious!
-The Christmas puns!
-Mingo’s mugs!
-How Mingo’s cat loves Marley from the beginning
-This quote: “Nah, life is too short to waste energy hating people. Why give them the power to steal your joy and peace of mind?”
This book is a standalone in the Sunnyside universe by this author. I have read one other book in that series but nothing has to be read before to understand what’s happening in this book. Some of the side characters are in other books in the series but I don’t feel like I missed too much by not knowing anything about the characters.
This book essentially takes place in only a few days so I found it a little hard to believe enemies to lovers would change as fast as it did in this novella, and had a little bit of a hard time at the beginning as there wasn’t much background shared. Mingo was also a bit frustrating at times not letting go of things Marley had done in the past.
However, this book was still a fun and quick laugh out loud read! Some things I loved about this book:
-The banter between Marley and Mingo is *chefs kiss*! The way they bickered back and forth during intimate scenes was hilarious!
-The Christmas puns!
-Mingo’s mugs!
-How Mingo’s cat loves Marley from the beginning
-This quote: “Nah, life is too short to waste energy hating people. Why give them the power to steal your joy and peace of mind?”
This book is a standalone in the Sunnyside universe by this author. I have read one other book in that series but nothing has to be read before to understand what’s happening in this book. Some of the side characters are in other books in the series but I don’t feel like I missed too much by not knowing anything about the characters.
June 8, 2024
old post reposted
The next stop in Ariella Zoelle's Sunnyside universe is "Friend of Mistlefoe." It's a standalone novel.
["The only thing worse than not living out his Christmas rom-com fantasy is having his sworn enemy be the one to make all his holiday dreams come true.
Mingo Nevins
I’d rather roast my chestnuts over an open fire than spend a single second around Marley. So when that Grinch shows up at my apartment to hang out with my friends over Christmas break, I’m ready to deck his halls, if you know what I mean.
After he starts an argument with me, I take advantage of the mistletoe hanging above us to end it with an impulsive kiss to shut him up, once and for all. But I make one crucial miscalculation: Marley kisses to win, and I refuse to lose.
I guess that means we’re dating now?
Marley Garland
With a mistletoe kiss, Mingo moves from my naughty list right to the top of my to-do list. We may have started as enemies, but that doesn’t change the fact that I want him to jingle my bells and make it a white Christmas.
If I have my way, the road won’t be the only thing getting plowed tonight. But can we call a truce long enough to make it a not-so-silent night?"]
Honestly, could the enemies-to-lovers banter in this get any cuter? Or more entertaining?? Like holy Christmas fuck, it was glorious. As was the hate sex…and the Christmas puns…and Figgy the cat (Figgy!!).
#friendormistlefoe #ariellazoelle #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
The next stop in Ariella Zoelle's Sunnyside universe is "Friend of Mistlefoe." It's a standalone novel.
["The only thing worse than not living out his Christmas rom-com fantasy is having his sworn enemy be the one to make all his holiday dreams come true.
Mingo Nevins
I’d rather roast my chestnuts over an open fire than spend a single second around Marley. So when that Grinch shows up at my apartment to hang out with my friends over Christmas break, I’m ready to deck his halls, if you know what I mean.
After he starts an argument with me, I take advantage of the mistletoe hanging above us to end it with an impulsive kiss to shut him up, once and for all. But I make one crucial miscalculation: Marley kisses to win, and I refuse to lose.
I guess that means we’re dating now?
Marley Garland
With a mistletoe kiss, Mingo moves from my naughty list right to the top of my to-do list. We may have started as enemies, but that doesn’t change the fact that I want him to jingle my bells and make it a white Christmas.
If I have my way, the road won’t be the only thing getting plowed tonight. But can we call a truce long enough to make it a not-so-silent night?"]
Honestly, could the enemies-to-lovers banter in this get any cuter? Or more entertaining?? Like holy Christmas fuck, it was glorious. As was the hate sex…and the Christmas puns…and Figgy the cat (Figgy!!).
#friendormistlefoe #ariellazoelle #sunnyside #sunnysideuniverse #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
November 20, 2022
In a way this book is typical for the author, steamy, fast, lots of fun. But unfortunately for me, Mingo spoilt the story.
Marley and Mingo are sworn enemies, more on Mingo's side it looks. A steamy kiss and a romp later and they start to grow to each other. Mingo wants the whole Hallmark-holiday-rom com but hates that Marley has the opposite staring role. Marley is patiently trying to teach Mingo that they are a great fit (even Mingo's cat knows it).
It's a fast path enemies-to-lovers book with so much holiday cheer, the book drips with it. And that's another problem. I love Christmas novels and obviously they do have lots of workplay and punch. But it got just TOO MUCH. There is hardly a paragraph which is normally written. Mingo comes over as a bit juvinile, too determind to be right that Marley is so wrong for him. I just can't see any real chemistry developing until it's just bang there and we have the epilogue.
Another thing I missed was the low interaction with others. I love the Sunnyside and Suite Dream books, especially the overlapping of characters and the way they interact and you learn more about them. Here, you have some in the first chapters, guys who popped up in previous Suite Dream books and they they just vanish again. Something which I found happens more frequently in this author's books recently, mainly in the Harmony of Hearts series. I miss the gang from Sunnyside!
Marley and Mingo are sworn enemies, more on Mingo's side it looks. A steamy kiss and a romp later and they start to grow to each other. Mingo wants the whole Hallmark-holiday-rom com but hates that Marley has the opposite staring role. Marley is patiently trying to teach Mingo that they are a great fit (even Mingo's cat knows it).
It's a fast path enemies-to-lovers book with so much holiday cheer, the book drips with it. And that's another problem. I love Christmas novels and obviously they do have lots of workplay and punch. But it got just TOO MUCH. There is hardly a paragraph which is normally written. Mingo comes over as a bit juvinile, too determind to be right that Marley is so wrong for him. I just can't see any real chemistry developing until it's just bang there and we have the epilogue.
Another thing I missed was the low interaction with others. I love the Sunnyside and Suite Dream books, especially the overlapping of characters and the way they interact and you learn more about them. Here, you have some in the first chapters, guys who popped up in previous Suite Dream books and they they just vanish again. Something which I found happens more frequently in this author's books recently, mainly in the Harmony of Hearts series. I miss the gang from Sunnyside!
December 2, 2022
Friend or Mistlefoe is the perfect holiday blend of sugar and spice, with plenty of playful humour. I must admit, I did feel the beginning was a bit jarring- as if I’d been plopped into the middle of a story I needed background context for. I’d definitely be up for reading a full-length novel with Mingo and Marley, so that I could get more of their individual backstories and get the satisfaction of being able to watch their surface-level animosity build. Putting things in the proper context of a holiday novella, however, this was a satisfying read that cleverly serves a purpose beyond giving readers their fix of short and sweet Christmas fluff.
This is a perfect read for those of us who just want something easy, happy, and steamy when it comes to holiday romance. There’s no angst, no real conflict, no drama- just all the “holiday romance of your fantasies” vibes. Zoelle manages to give you all that, while also making you curious to know more- not only about Mingo and Marley, but about side characters and the universe they all inhabit. I have to wonder if readers are going to learn more about Alain and Vigo, for example (I may or may not have scoped out Zoelle’s author page on Amazon to see if those two have their own book).
If you enjoy spending the winter holidays bingeing the fluffiest romances full of holly jolly steam, consider adding this one to your list.
Many thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for providing an ARC! I'm leaving a review voluntarily.
This is a perfect read for those of us who just want something easy, happy, and steamy when it comes to holiday romance. There’s no angst, no real conflict, no drama- just all the “holiday romance of your fantasies” vibes. Zoelle manages to give you all that, while also making you curious to know more- not only about Mingo and Marley, but about side characters and the universe they all inhabit. I have to wonder if readers are going to learn more about Alain and Vigo, for example (I may or may not have scoped out Zoelle’s author page on Amazon to see if those two have their own book).
If you enjoy spending the winter holidays bingeing the fluffiest romances full of holly jolly steam, consider adding this one to your list.
Many thanks to Gay Romance Reviews for providing an ARC! I'm leaving a review voluntarily.
December 21, 2022
"𝙒𝙝𝙮 𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙩𝙧𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙞𝙣𝙘𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙄 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪?"
"𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙜𝙖𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚."
Friend or Mistlefoe by Ariella Zoelle
4 Maple Leafs / 4 Flames
Mingo and Marley have never seen eye-to-eye and Mingo is convinced that Marley hates him. This Christmas, Marley is determined to show Mingo that they have more in common than he realizes and that they could be each other's Christmas miracle.
Mingo and Marley have banter and chemistry that is sugar, spice and everything nice. Mingo was a little annoying with his constant reminders that they were supposed to hate each other. I love Christmas but the amount of Christmas wordplay to describe things got to be a little much.
I did enjoy this book as a whole and am looking forward to the next book.
Get ready for... mm, holiday (Christmas), enemies to lovers, small town, dual first-person pov.
*A copy was kindly provided for reviewing to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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"𝘽𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙪𝙨𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙙𝙤𝙣'𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙚 𝙨𝙪𝙜𝙖𝙧 𝙘𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙞𝙚 𝙠𝙞𝙨𝙨𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙞𝙩𝙝 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚."
Friend or Mistlefoe by Ariella Zoelle
4 Maple Leafs / 4 Flames
Mingo and Marley have never seen eye-to-eye and Mingo is convinced that Marley hates him. This Christmas, Marley is determined to show Mingo that they have more in common than he realizes and that they could be each other's Christmas miracle.
Mingo and Marley have banter and chemistry that is sugar, spice and everything nice. Mingo was a little annoying with his constant reminders that they were supposed to hate each other. I love Christmas but the amount of Christmas wordplay to describe things got to be a little much.
I did enjoy this book as a whole and am looking forward to the next book.
Get ready for... mm, holiday (Christmas), enemies to lovers, small town, dual first-person pov.
*A copy was kindly provided for reviewing to Canadian Girl Book Blog*
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December 7, 2022
This was a really cute holiday romance with enemies to lovers' vibes and so many holiday puns! I really enjoyed our characters; they balanced each other out and gave to each other as good as they got. Mingo is sassy and LOVES Christmas and even makes his own funny holiday mugs. And Marley, well he is witty and smart and just like Mingo LOVES Christmas as well, he may even top Mingo (haha get it?) I enjoyed the little group of friends that added humor to the story and how Ariella set the stage for a new couple. This was my first read by her and I will say I enjoyed the writing and detail. I was however looking for a bit more heat, particular the details during those intimate moments. It seems that this is just her style and the relationship of our MC's surely shined though so I didn't feel like I was missing out too much, just preference. I will say I was really glad that even though Mingo liked to talk a big talk with Marley he still could not deny the moments that made him for his nemesis. After looking at her backlist of books I would definitely like to read more of Ariella when I am in the mood for a lighter RomCom.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by Gay Romance Reviews.
*I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book provided by Gay Romance Reviews.
December 20, 2022
4.5 Stars
Ariella Zoelle delivers a fantastically funny Christmas romance in Friend or Mistlefoe. This is a low-angst enemies-to-lovers, contemporary gay romance–served with a heavy dose of holiday puns and innuendo.
Mingo and Marley are the fiercest of foes, at least in Mingo's mind they are. They are in the same field of study at university, so they share a lot of classes, which means a lot of debating, and neither backing down.
Mingo loves Christmas. It's his favorite time of year. He hosts his yearly Christmas movie marathon at his apartment with friends, and lo and behold, Marley shows up uninvited with a mutual friend. All sorts of bickering and one-upping ensue. Naturally, the only way to shut Marley up is to kiss him, right?
This story is basically a rated R Hallmark movie in MM book form. It's low angst, loads of laughs, and all of the spice. Christmas puns and mistletoe change everything for them. Mingo realizes Marley might be able to make all of his holiday romance movie dreams come true.
Ariella Zoelle served up a holiday hit here. I'm definitely adding this to my holiday must-read list.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
Ariella Zoelle delivers a fantastically funny Christmas romance in Friend or Mistlefoe. This is a low-angst enemies-to-lovers, contemporary gay romance–served with a heavy dose of holiday puns and innuendo.
Mingo and Marley are the fiercest of foes, at least in Mingo's mind they are. They are in the same field of study at university, so they share a lot of classes, which means a lot of debating, and neither backing down.
Mingo loves Christmas. It's his favorite time of year. He hosts his yearly Christmas movie marathon at his apartment with friends, and lo and behold, Marley shows up uninvited with a mutual friend. All sorts of bickering and one-upping ensue. Naturally, the only way to shut Marley up is to kiss him, right?
This story is basically a rated R Hallmark movie in MM book form. It's low angst, loads of laughs, and all of the spice. Christmas puns and mistletoe change everything for them. Mingo realizes Marley might be able to make all of his holiday romance movie dreams come true.
Ariella Zoelle served up a holiday hit here. I'm definitely adding this to my holiday must-read list.
***Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement. ***
November 18, 2022
"Once upon a time, I would have preferred a lump of coal in my stocking than let you stuff mine. However, it was truly love at frost sight. Now, you bring joy to my world and are all of my favorite things. I'll do my best to stay on your nice list, but let's be honest, I'm probably going to spend way more time on your naughty list."
I got such joy reading the playful and unique banter between these characters. I've never read another story quite like this one before, it was quirky and unique not to mention so funny, but It was also romantic. I want a Christmas Hallmark style guy too! Can I have a Marley please? Or a Mingo? Please?
This was an enemies to lovers holidays romance, with swoon worthy moments of these characters making cookies together and having some very naughty times.
I enjoyed everything about this; the writing, the detail, the puns! Oh the puns and the jokes! I was giggling reading this, It was just so well done. I appreciated how Ariella wrote about Mingo realizing that he didn't really hate Marley, and I loved how Foggy automatically went to Marley. That really aggravated Mingo, but pets are wonderful judges of characters.
I honestly can't recommend this one more to anyone who wants laughter at the holidays. And those who wants to use these puns themselves. ;)
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
I got such joy reading the playful and unique banter between these characters. I've never read another story quite like this one before, it was quirky and unique not to mention so funny, but It was also romantic. I want a Christmas Hallmark style guy too! Can I have a Marley please? Or a Mingo? Please?
This was an enemies to lovers holidays romance, with swoon worthy moments of these characters making cookies together and having some very naughty times.
I enjoyed everything about this; the writing, the detail, the puns! Oh the puns and the jokes! I was giggling reading this, It was just so well done. I appreciated how Ariella wrote about Mingo realizing that he didn't really hate Marley, and I loved how Foggy automatically went to Marley. That really aggravated Mingo, but pets are wonderful judges of characters.
I honestly can't recommend this one more to anyone who wants laughter at the holidays. And those who wants to use these puns themselves. ;)
*I received an early copy of this book and this is my honest review.*
November 24, 2022
They say opposites attract, but there is something to be said about how passions can fly when two people are so similar that there is clashing and head-to-head battles of two stubborn, but well-meaning individuals. Mingo and Marley are a perfect fit, even if they have this love-hate thing going on over the past 3 years. Mingo is a Christmas-loving, cookie baking, holiday pun-making sweetheart and on the surface, Marley is a grinch, but really and truly, he is just like Mingo. As different as they seem, they are similar at falling for each other.
I really liked this book. It was so naughty with all the Christmas jokes and puns, not to mention the innuendos and spicy, steamy scenes. The tension between the MC's was pretty hot, but the first time together, the author waked a fine line between non-con and consensual non-con. Everything thing pointed to it being completely consensual but with Mingo fighting against his attraction for Marley at every turn, it looked a little iffy. Other than those blurred lines, I enjoyed this book. I recommend this author.
I received a ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really liked this book. It was so naughty with all the Christmas jokes and puns, not to mention the innuendos and spicy, steamy scenes. The tension between the MC's was pretty hot, but the first time together, the author waked a fine line between non-con and consensual non-con. Everything thing pointed to it being completely consensual but with Mingo fighting against his attraction for Marley at every turn, it looked a little iffy. Other than those blurred lines, I enjoyed this book. I recommend this author.
I received a ARC of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 6, 2022
Cheesy, Puntastic, and Surprisingly Hot
‘Friend or Mistlefoe’ was the blend of silliness, holiday cheer, fluffy goodness, and spice I was craving in a holiday read. Overall, the book is low angst and over-the-top, but in the ways you expect from holiday stories.
It’s a cheesy book. Don’t go thinking the author saved all the puns for the description. The book is just as puntastic as the book blurb is.
There are a lot of different approaches to “enemies-to lovers” stories, and this one plays into the idea that sometimes the people who get under our skin the most are the ones we want most to impress. That desire to show the other one up makes the chemistry between the characters so much fun to read.
It’s obvious from the beginning that no one is a “bad guy.” The characters here are school rivals, but they’re also part of the same friend group. It was clear, even though I haven’t read other books in the Sunnyside Universe, that these characters have been pulling each other's pigtails for several years.
If you’re looking for a silly holiday pick-me-up, I highly recommend ‘Friend or Mistlefoe.’
‘Friend or Mistlefoe’ was the blend of silliness, holiday cheer, fluffy goodness, and spice I was craving in a holiday read. Overall, the book is low angst and over-the-top, but in the ways you expect from holiday stories.
It’s a cheesy book. Don’t go thinking the author saved all the puns for the description. The book is just as puntastic as the book blurb is.
There are a lot of different approaches to “enemies-to lovers” stories, and this one plays into the idea that sometimes the people who get under our skin the most are the ones we want most to impress. That desire to show the other one up makes the chemistry between the characters so much fun to read.
It’s obvious from the beginning that no one is a “bad guy.” The characters here are school rivals, but they’re also part of the same friend group. It was clear, even though I haven’t read other books in the Sunnyside Universe, that these characters have been pulling each other's pigtails for several years.
If you’re looking for a silly holiday pick-me-up, I highly recommend ‘Friend or Mistlefoe.’
January 30, 2023
4 Stars!
This story is a super cute, fluffy, enemies-to-lovers story. I do realize how contradictory that sounds, but if you give this story a try, you'll see what I mean. I give the author a lot of credit for coming up with an amazing number of puns in this one, especially the Christmas ones. I loved the snarky banter between Mingo and Marley's friends, as well as between the two of them. Mingo and Marley may have always been arguing in class and trying to outdo each other, but their friends see what they can't. It's amazing how one impulsive kiss changes things for them both.
I liked that, even though they give in to their chemistry quickly, it takes them some time to change their mindsets from automatically arguing to learning to really get to know each other. I thought Marley's initial description of Mingo was spot on. As such, it took Mingo longer to move past his first impression of Marley. They definitely have a Hallmark Christmas romance going once they have a better understanding of how much they have in common.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
This story is a super cute, fluffy, enemies-to-lovers story. I do realize how contradictory that sounds, but if you give this story a try, you'll see what I mean. I give the author a lot of credit for coming up with an amazing number of puns in this one, especially the Christmas ones. I loved the snarky banter between Mingo and Marley's friends, as well as between the two of them. Mingo and Marley may have always been arguing in class and trying to outdo each other, but their friends see what they can't. It's amazing how one impulsive kiss changes things for them both.
I liked that, even though they give in to their chemistry quickly, it takes them some time to change their mindsets from automatically arguing to learning to really get to know each other. I thought Marley's initial description of Mingo was spot on. As such, it took Mingo longer to move past his first impression of Marley. They definitely have a Hallmark Christmas romance going once they have a better understanding of how much they have in common.
*Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure. A review wasn't a requirement.*
November 10, 2022
Every time I think I have a favorite book by this author, she writes a new one and I fall in love with that one even more than the previous one! This book was full of the funniest, naughtiest Christmas puns! Mingo is a character that ADORES everything Christmas and I would love to own anything he was selling! Hahaha! Marley is his arch nemesis that grates on his last nerve. He is also the one that makes him mad enough to shut him up by putting his mouth to better use under the mistletoe. This confusing action begins Mingo's strangest, yet BEST Christmas ever. Marley enjoys getting Mingo riled up, and if it ends up with him getting more kisses, he's going to do whatever he can to push Mingo's buttons! I love the way these two try to outdo each other with their Christmas come backs. I laughed so hard at the holiday phrases they put together and how naughty they could be. This was such an enjoyable book! I also loved how Mingo got exactly what he has always desired, from the person he least expected it to come from.
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