Review: Under The Mistletoe Collection #1-5 – Under the Mistletoe
The Under the Mistletoe collection is a holiday treat for romance fans, bringing together stories by some of today’s hottest authors with charming seasonal backdrops. I love that Amazon has created these seasonal collections—it started with the Valentine’s Day Meet Cute Collection, and now they’re gifting us with this festive holiday set. It’s a brilliant way to sample each author’s style to see if it works for you. I listened to all the audiobooks and thoroughly enjoyed the immersive narration and cozy holiday vibes throughout. And yes, I definitely have a favorite!
Blurb: “Curl up by the fire with some of today’s hottest authors as they serve up enough holiday joy and magic to melt the frostiest heart. As the temperature drops, friends and neighbors might need to turn up the heat, and even old enemies just might get a second chance. Let it snow!”
I appreciate how each story embodies a unique holiday trope, giving a little taste of everything from forced proximity and pining crushes to festive mishaps and holiday rescues. It makes the collection feel balanced and well-rounded. Here’s a breakdown of each story:
Individual Story Highlights:
Cruel Winter with You by Ali Hazelwood Narrated by Vivienne LaRueAli Hazelwood delivers a sweet and sexy story of unrequited love finally blossoming between childhood friends. Marc, now a successful tech millionaire, has held a torch for Jamie, his older sister’s best friend, since they were kids. Jamie, a pediatrician, lets her guard down to admit her feelings have grown too. The chemistry is genuine, making for a swoon-worthy winter romance. 4/5
Merry Ever After by Tessa Bailey Narrated by Summer Morton & Connor CraisTrue to Tessa Bailey’s style, this one is packed with her classic pairing: a smol, single-mom heroine and a tall, gentle giant of a hero. Evie and Luke make an endearing duo, with Luke’s caretaking nature shining through. The only downside? The frequent mentions of Luke’s impressive stature were a bit repetitive, but their warmth and chemistry made it a cozy read. 2.5/5
All by My Elf by Olivia Dade Narrated by Andi ArndtOlivia Dade brings her humor and heart to this quirky forced-proximity story between two adjunct college professors working on a holiday side gig—aboard a “mincemeat mobile.” William, the soft-hearted hero, has quietly pined for Nina, who happens to feel the same way. Dade’s knack for balancing humor with emotional depth makes this one a standout. 5/5
Merriment and Mayhem by Alexandria Bellefleur Narrated by Amelie Griffin With a touch of Christmas chaos, Everleigh tries to keep her grandmother’s traditions alive while selling the family home. From kitchen fires to rescue missions, her plans unravel hilariously until firefighter Griffin Brantley steps in. This story is super fun, delightfully sexy, and captures a cozy holiday spirit. If only it had been a few pages longer! 4/5
Only Santas in the Building by Alexis Daria Narrated by Ruby CorazonEvie, a comic book illustrator, is on deadline but finds herself navigating an adorable crush on her upstairs neighbor, Theo. This sweet and slow-burn romance is filled with mutual pining and respect. Both dealing with the loss of their grandmothers, they connect over shared grief, making for a heartfelt and festive love story. 5/5
Overall Thoughts:
Each story in Under the Mistletoe brought its own holiday magic and swoon-worthy moments, offering readers a delightful escape into the season of joy, second chances, and love. The variety in tropes makes the collection feel balanced, giving something to every romance reader. Whether you’re a longtime fan of these authors or trying them for the first time, this collection is a perfect holiday treat!
