The Mistletoe Bet by Maren Moore

It’s day 2 of 12 Days of Bookmas! (a very late day 2, but let’s ignore that part) This book, The Mistletoe Bet, is book number one in the Strawberry Hollow series/duet written by Maren Moore. It was released last year (2022), but this year a second book was released, which is now on my TBR list.

Taking place in the small town of Strawberry Hollow, The Mistletoe Bet is a holiday themed story filled with brother’s best friend and friends to lovers vibes. If you’re a sucker for those two like I am, you’ll love this short but sweet Christmas story.

The Story

Quinn, a self-proclaimed Scrooge, returns home for Christmas at the insistence of her mother. She hasn’t been home in 4 years, and spending the holidays in her hometown isn’t her idea of fun. But while trying to escape for a moment during a holiday party, Quinn finds herself making a bet with her brother’s best friend, Parker, who she always had a massive crush on.

Parker reminds Quinn that she wasn’t always a holiday-hater, and makes a bet while under mistletoe. Parker is determined to remind her why she used to love Christmas. Positive he’ll lose, Quinn agrees.

Soon she finds herself picking out and decorating a Christmas tree, baking cookies, and fulfilling her teenage fantasies when Parker kisses her. As they spend more time together, Quinn finds herself questioning why she wants to return to NYC and a job that she openly says she hates.

My Verdict on The Mistletoe Bet

Overall, I give this novella a solid 4 star rating. It was the perfect length to read in one sitting. But, it still had enough details to get you invested in the story and characters. I often find that challenging when it comes to these shorter stories. But Maren Moore’s story was spicy, detailed, and captivating. It’s a great story for those looking for holiday vibes, wholesome moments, and lots of spicy tension.

Looking for more holiday stories? Check back each day from now until Christmas for reviews of holiday books- both old and new!