Holly and Nick Hate Christmas By Betsey St. Amant

Holly and Nick Hate Christmas
By Betsey St. Amant
Published by WaterBrook & Multnomah

Description from the publisher:
When a Christmas-hating woman’s brother sets her up with a fellow Grinch and it backfires, she decides to out-Christmas her date by setting up a festive battle wills in this enemies-to-lovers holiday romcom.
Holly Sinclair has hated Christmas for as long as she can remember. Who names their Christmas baby Holly in the first place? She was teased mercilessly growing up. Holly Berry, Holli-days, Holly Jolly…not to mention the fact that her birthday is often totally overlooked amidst the season.
To make matters worse, instead of getting the promotion she was expecting, Holly’s been downsized—which is just fancy holiday talk for fired. Now Holly has to go home single, unemployed, and turning thirty. Bah, humbug.
Holly’s big brother, Ryan, has dragged his best friend, known holiday-hater Nick Kinsley, home with him. But when Holly discovers that Nick’s here to be her pity date, she decides the best revenge is to play along…and Christmas like she’s never Christmas’d before. Commence Naughty List. The fact that she’s attracted to Nick is totally not the point. She’ll teach him a lesson, one ho ho ho at a time.
The holiday grows more complicated when Holly and Ryan find out their parents asked all the siblings to come home for Christmas this year, but refuse to say why. The rest of the Sinclair siblings descend, each with their own sleigh full of secrets. Rumors spread as everyone tries to guess the reason for their parents’ demand—and Nick turns out to have a secret of his own. Will this be a Christmas to forget? Or will Holly and Nick discover there is so much more?

My Review:
I am a sucker for a book with good banter, so I was hooked right from the get-go with this one. I thought Holly and Nick were totally adorable. This was actually on track to be a five-star book for me, but it lost a star with the last couple of chapters. I was totally fine with the way things played out between Nick and Holly, but I was irritated by how Holly's family issue, her feelings of being ignored in her family, particularly with her birthday being overshadowed by Christmas, was resolved. It just came too easily and wasn't really satisfying. All in all, still a fun read and one I totally recommend for those looking for a great Christmas read.
4 stars.
I read a DRC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

If You'll Have Me by Esther Hatch

If You'll Have Me
By Esther Hatch
Published by Shadow Mountain
Publication Date: February 3, 2026

Description from the publisher:
Anna Atwood returns to Breckenridge, where she spent one blissful summer as a young woman. This time, though, she comes to the quaint town as a penniless spinster with a single hope: to build a life free from the constraints her father’s death put on her and free from the persistent suitor Mr. Green, whose plans for marriage are Anna’s worst nightmare. When she runs into David Tate, the boy she knew from that memorable summer, she finds he has grown into a confident and striking man. As they rekindle their friendship, David offers her warmth and protection in the moment she needs it most—when Mr. Green appears in town and threatens to destroy Anna’s carefully laid plans.
David Tate remembers Anna as the spirited woman who once brought light into his dark childhood. Now a man of means, he has a promising future, if he can withstand the powerful Lord Murphy—a man whose menacing hold on the town he owns is surpassed only by his relentless hold on David’s life. When David meets Anna again, he realizes he has a chance to save her from Mr. Green’s schemes, even if it means putting David in danger of Lord Murphy’s wrath and revealing David’s deepest secrets.
In a moment of desperation, David and Anna agree to a proposal of convenience to provide the safety they both need. But as their attraction ignites, the looming dangers from Lord Murphy and Mr. Green threaten to destroy their budding happiness.

My Review:
What a terrific story. I loved the "meet cute" (although I suppose "re-meet cute" might be a more accurate term). David's adorable teasing of Anna drew me right in. (Part of me wishes that this story were duel POV so we could have seen David's thoughts more...but I also don't know that there's any scene I don't want from Anna's POV, so I'm glad there are glimpses of David through the journal entries interspersed throughout the book).As the book progressed and it became obvious that he was bearing heavy burdens, I love that he was still kind to everyone, Anna especially. I also really loved how he was willing to sacrifice for Anna and that Anna in turn was willing to fight for him.
I hope this ends up being the first in a trilogy because I really want to see books with David's two siblings as protagonists!
Definitely add this to your to-read list!
5 stars.


I read a complimentary copy of this book; all opinions are my own.

Hearts in Circulation by Sarah Monzon

Hearts in Circulation

By Sarah Monzon

Published by Bethany House

Publication date: November 18, 2025

Description from the publisher: 

Little Creek's bookmobile is more of a death trap on wheels than a vehicle of literary delights, and circulation librarian Haley Holt is afraid it's going to careen down a mountainside with her in it. Yet she sees it as a way to serve her community and be worthy of the liver transplant that saved her life as a child. However, her fears come true when the bookmobile breaks down and a rockslide traps her in the small hollow of Turkey Grove. 

Reclusive mechanic Levi Redding lives in tiny Turkey Grove to get away from people. He can handle getting the bookmobile running again, but the endless chatter and unsettling touch from the vibrant librarian leaves him overstimulated. When forced proximity leads to a misunderstanding, a note of apology begins an epistolary friendship, proving that sometimes the happiest of endings aren't contained within the bindings of a book. 

My review: 

What a cute book! I loved seeing Levi go from retreating from life due to being overwhelmed by everything to being willing to open himself up and explain his needs and his wants. I also liked seeing how he prodded Hayley to examine her own issues and stop being held back by them. I really appreciated how they actually communicated with each other; so many books could be resolved with one conversation but drag on forever because the characters won't just talk to each other. So it was quite refreshing to see how Levi and Hayley shared their real feelings, both in their letters and in their conversations. I did feel the book was a bit lacking as far as Christian content and had a few too many references to Levi's size, but all in all, the story is great and I like how it's inclusive, with Levi's Sensory Processing Disorder and 

Hayley's liver transplant. 

 

4 stars. 

 I read a DRC provided by the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Elisabeth: Mother of John the Baptist by H.B. Moore

Elisabeth: Mother of John the Baptist
By H.B. Moore
Published by: Mirror Press
Publication Date: November 1, 2025

Description from the publisher:
Her greatest sacrifice became her greatest legacy.
Zacharias has loved Elisabeth all his life. When negotiations are made for their marriage, the childhood friends trust that their future will be bright. But as their story unfolds in their village near Jerusalem, the life they build together is marked by both the joy of love and the sorrows of loss and longing, for as the years pass by, the steadfast couple is never blessed with the thing they desire above all: a child.
Now beyond childbearing years, it seems that the couple’s righteous desire will never be granted—until a divine promise is made, and they learn that their fate will transcend the bounds of age and mortal comprehension. Elisabeth and Zacharias are destined to play a pivotal role in the fulfillment of ancient scripture, and they soon come to understand that God’s plan is far grander than they ever dreamed.

My Review:
I always love the historical details H.B. Moore brings to her biblical stories! The day-to-day life for Elisabeth really shines through, making someone I've read about my whole life become more developed in my mind. I loved seeing her and Zacharias early on in their relationship, as well in their later years when they finally receive the miracle of a son. I also really loved the scriptures that were woven into the story; the prophecies are beautiful and reading them as Elisabeth is considering them was really a neat experience. The one thing I wish the book included was insights into those in-between years; the book is split between the beginning of their marriage and then their later years. I think those middle years, actually seeing Elisabeth dealing with the disappointment month after month, year after year, and details about how she handled it (Did she weep? Did she ever rail against God? What helped her keep her faith?) would have made her a more relatable character, especially for women who have experienced infertility but also for anyone who has endured a long trial. Overall, it's still a lovely look at an admirable women from the Bible, giving readers lots to ponder.
4 stars.
I read a DRC provided by the author/publisher. All opinions are my own.

The Free State of Jax by Jennifer A. Nielsen

The Free State of Jax 

By Jennifer A. Nielsen 

Published by Scholastic Press

Publication Date: October 21, 2025

Description from the publisher:
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen, this charmingly quirky coming-of-age story about a boy fighting for his freedom and a place to call home is brimming with mystery and adventure.
Jaxon Averett has had some terrifically bad luck. Because only the worst luck in the world can account for the fact that he has to live with his Uncle Clive Grimmitz, Aunt Helga, and their six kids in dead-end Walkonby, Kansas. Life with Jax's cousins isn't easy--they're all bullies, and his aunt and uncle can't even remember his name.
Which is why, on the night before his twelfth birthday, Jax sneaks over to the neighboring property, floats a raft out into the middle of the hot springs lake, and drops anchor.
Jax is now the president and sole citizen of his own micronation, the Free State of Jax.
With the help of new friends, a local lawyer, and the property owner Owen O'Keefe, Jax's micronation begins to flourish. But the Grimmitzes will do anything to get him back and they are not above sabotage. On top of that, Jax is quickly embroiled in the mystery of Owen's missing brother--and a lost windfall of the town's money.
Investigating puts everything Jax has built at risk, and when long-buried family secrets are unearthed, he must find the courage to do what's right, even if it means losing his only chance at freedom.
New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen weaves an extraordinary mystery and a moving and hilariously zany story about family, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to do what's right, no matter the cost.

My Review:
Jax was such an endearing character. I was really hooked by his personality and and his sense of humor. The premise of the book was unique and I think it could have been dismissed as just a weird idea from a kid, but Jax's personality sold it. I loved his thoughts about his family life, government, and more--things such as "I don't even like creamed corn and I'm still not sure what Spam is" and "I didn't even bother writing down Congress. I'd never heard a single person say they liked Congress." It was heartwarming to see his interactions with Mr. Owen O'Keefe and other people in the town. Some parts of the mystery were a bit far-fetched, and think the whole thing wrapped up a little too neatly...but at the same time, it's what we all wanted Jaxon to get, so, I can't exactly mind too much.
Overall, fun book that just got itself added to my buy-a-print-copy-for-my kids list.

4 stars.

I read a DRC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The Maid of Sherwood Forest by Sian Ann Bessey

The Maid of Sherwood Forest (A McQuivey's Costume Shop Time Travel Romance)
By Sian Ann Bessey
Published by Shadow Mountain
Publication Date: November 4, 2025

Description from the Publisher:
Mariah thought Robin Hood was just a legend—until time pulled her into his world and the outlaw stole her heart.
Nothing about Mariah Clinton’s passion for archery or her work as a sous-chef in contemporary London prepares her for the moment she’s pulled into another time—and another life. One minute, she’s stepping into McQuivey’s Costume Shop to rent a medieval gown. The next, she’s standing in a castle kitchen in twelfth-century Nottingham—with no idea how she got there or how to return to modern time. Forced to pose as a kitchen servant, she must draw on ingenuity and courage to survive in a world in which she shouldn’t exist. But when her skill with a bow draws the attention of outlaws in Sherwood Forest, she’s swept into a conflict that is more dangerous—and more thrilling—than she could ever have imagined.
Robin Hood has spent years outwitting the sheriff, protecting the innocent, and keeping his men one step ahead of Prince John’s reach. But when he crosses paths with a mysterious archer who shoots like no woman he’s ever met, he knows she’s hiding something. Her words, her ways, even the fire in her eyes—none of it belongs in his time. Yet the more she stands at his side, the harder it becomes to imagine Sherwood Forest without her.
Mariah is torn between a past she understands in modern-day London and an uncertain future with an outlaw who has stolen her heart. But as the sheriff’s grip tightens and betrayal looms, one truth becomes clear—some choices are impossible to undo, and love, once found, is not so easily left behind.

My Review:
I have always loved Robin Hood, so I was totally excited when I saw Sian Ann Bessey's latest book would be a Robin Hood retelling...and I was even more excited once I started it, because it is terrific! I love how there were some nods to traditional Robin Hood versions but also unique elements. I really enjoyed how much we get to see of "Marian" and how she's a fully-developer character, not just Robin's love interest. I also really liked Robin and seeing his concern for others. The romance was sweet and satisfying, the side characters added humor and wisdom, and the entire book was just a great read. I would totally love to see this developed into a spin-off series with Will Scarlett, Little John, and others as main characters in their own books. Highly recommend!

4.5 stars.

I read a DRC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Sense and Suitability by Pepper Basham

Sense and Suitabiity
By Pepper Basham
Published by Thomas Nelson
Publication Date: October 14, 2025

Description from the publisher:
After two failed social seasons, her family may think the third time will be a charm, but Emmeline Lockhart just wants to survive with her dignity (and singleness) intact. She thought she'd found her perfect match in Simon Reeves--charming, handsome, a veritable hero from a novel--until he vanished from her life without so much as a "farewell" or "my deepest regrets" (or even a vague apology scribbled on the back of a calling card). Lesson learned: never fall for a man known for his charm.
Fortunately, and unlike many of the other eligible young ladies of the ton, Emmeline has no need for a husband--because she's already found success in her scandalous (and very anonymous) profession as an author. Why bother with matrimony when she can make her own fortune and write men exactly the way she wants them?
But fate--or the misfortune of Simon's reckless patriarchs--has other plans. Simon's once-proud estate is in shambles, his family fortune has been gambled away, and the younger impressionable siblings in his care are running wild across his estate (and possibly across all of England). Simon is in desperate need of a wealthy, prestigious bride...and a friend.
Emmeline may not fit the role of heiress, but she can certainly be a friend. Just a friend. She'll help him find a suitable match, ensure his reputation remains intact, and keep things strictly platonic--no matter how dangerously appealing his new-and-improved sincerity and regret may be.
There's just one small problem: the undeniable chemistry that still smolders between them. Can Emme play matchmaker for the man she's still in love with without losing her heart all over again? And is it possible that some love stories--especially the messy, inconvenient, impossible ones--are worthy of a rewrite?
Filled with lively banter, adorable children, a frog named Blast, and swoony kisses, Sense and Suitability is the sweet Regency romance you've been looking for. Basham brings her signature humor to the Regency era where social strictures keep the tension tight in this second-chance, enemies-to-lovers romance.

My Review:
I've read (ok, devoured because I loved them so much) some of the author's contemporary romances, so I was excited to check out this Regency romance by her to see what I thought. I might not have loved it quite as much as her contemporary books, but I still really liked it. I really liked both Emme's kind heart and how she's willing to help Simon even if it means she doesn't get what she wants, and I felt so badly for Simon with his burdens and how he wanted so badly to do what was right for his family and their reputation. Secondary characters added a lot of humorous moments to the story, along with bits of wisdom. I hope we'll see more stories from Basham that allow some of those secondary characters to take center stage.

4 stars.

I read a DRC provided by the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.