Have a Holly Jolly Iced Latte by Kimberly Hanson: Book Review

 **ARC received for consideration. All opinions are my own. 

The Book

Cassie

There are two things I know for sure: coffee is life, and I need to stay away from Jacob Winters. No matter how hard the townsfolk try to ‘ship’ us, I’m not interested. I just want to run my coffee shop here in the small Christmas town of Candy Cane Creek, sip holly jolly lattes, and read my cozy books in peace. No distractions. Definitely no real-life romance.

So when the town decides to host a Christmas in July celebration and asks me to help coordinate, I jump at the chance. My favourite holiday in my favourite season? Yes, please. It’s enough to put me on a sugar high worthy of Mrs. Claus’ cookie stash.

The only problem? I have to work with him.

Jacob

I thought celebrating my inn’s grand reopening during Candy Cane Creek’s Christmas in July would be magical—until Cassie King tried to plan it without me. She was once my closest friend, and now she won’t even look me in the eye. I don’t know what hurts more: losing her friendship, or still wanting something more when she clearly doesn’t.

Maybe being forced to work together will be a blessing in disguise. I need this event to be a success, but more than that, I want to fix what’s broken between us. The town might be calling us things like Jassie and Cakob, but I’d settle for getting back to being just Cassie and Jacob.

Even if it takes a midsummer Christmas miracle.

Have a Holly Jolly Iced Latte is a full-length standalone book within the Holiday Rivals series. This is a closed-door, kisses-only romantic comedy.

The Author

Kimberly Hanson is the author of two heartwarming romance series: the Sweetheart Springs Romances and Holiday Rivals, both set in small towns filled with charm, rivalry, and plenty of happily-ever-afters. She writes clean, closed-door love stories for readers who believe in fresh starts, festive moments, and the healing power of community (and baked goods).

A lifelong lover of books, Kimberly adores quirky characters, slow mornings, and time out in her garden. When she's not writing, you’ll find her baking something sweet, listening to country music, or plotting new romances over a cup of coffee.

All of Kimberly’s books are available through Kindle Unlimited. Visit her on Instagram or subscribe to her newsletter for bonus scenes, seasonal fun, and book news.

Book Review

Have a Holly Jolly Iced Latte is the fifth book in the Holiday Rivals series. Those who have read the previous books in the series will have more understanding of the town rivalry (as well as a few mentions of events from past books), but I do think this could be enjoyed just fine as a standalone too. 

Have you ever wanted a book that mixed the smalltown craziness of Gilmore Girls with all the Christmas cheer of a Hallmark movie... with a few fun Friends references thrown in for good measure? Well, that is exactly what you'll get with this one... and I enjoyed every minute of it. Cassie and Jacob have been friends since childhood, but the entire town thinks that they should be something more... and doesn't shy away from letting them know! This makes Cassie push away... until they are both put in charge of the town's Christmas in July event. I love all the shenanigans in this small Christmas town... their over-the-top meddling was so fun, and the town chat was hilarious and kept me smiling throughout. Cassie and Jacob's relationship was super sweet... and definitely a slower burn, but so worth it to see them finally admit their feelings and take a chance on each other. With it's Christmas in July theme, this is just the perfect does of holiday fun (while still being summery) for this Christmas crazy girl too! 

Have a Holly Jolly Iced Latte is a closed-door romance with kisses only and no language. 


You can purchase your copy here: https://amzn.to/4lB4Lh0