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My December Darling
A small-town Christmas novella by the New York Times bestselling author of LAKEFRONT BILLIONAIRES series that will make you want to pack your bags and spend the holiday in Lake Wisteria.
Catalina
Playing the part of my sister’s maid of honor is easy even if she’s marrying my ex.
But playing nice with the best man? An impossible task given our history.
Sure, Luke Darling may be suspiciously kind, incredibly handsome, and stubborn to a fault, but regardless of how hard he tries to make me see otherwise, I’m not interested.
It’s on me to remind him that he’s my ex-boyfriend’s best friend.
And the one I’m secretly starting to wish I met first.
Luke
My job as the best man is a simple one, except for one minor issue.
I’ve spent so much time avoiding my best friend’s ex that I didn’t consider what could happen if I started craving Catalina Martinez’s company instead.
She is only in Lake Wisteria for the winter wedding, but her January departure date won’t stop me from pursuing her.
Getting her to date me would be nothing short of a Christmas miracle, but I’m determined to make her mine.
‘Tis the season to fall in love…even if I’m the only one taking the risk.
My December Darling is a 50,000 word, Christmas-themed romance between a grumpy maid of honor and an outgoing best man who chases after what he wants.
Catalina
Playing the part of my sister’s maid of honor is easy even if she’s marrying my ex.
But playing nice with the best man? An impossible task given our history.
Sure, Luke Darling may be suspiciously kind, incredibly handsome, and stubborn to a fault, but regardless of how hard he tries to make me see otherwise, I’m not interested.
It’s on me to remind him that he’s my ex-boyfriend’s best friend.
And the one I’m secretly starting to wish I met first.
Luke
My job as the best man is a simple one, except for one minor issue.
I’ve spent so much time avoiding my best friend’s ex that I didn’t consider what could happen if I started craving Catalina Martinez’s company instead.
She is only in Lake Wisteria for the winter wedding, but her January departure date won’t stop me from pursuing her.
Getting her to date me would be nothing short of a Christmas miracle, but I’m determined to make her mine.
‘Tis the season to fall in love…even if I’m the only one taking the risk.
My December Darling is a 50,000 word, Christmas-themed romance between a grumpy maid of honor and an outgoing best man who chases after what he wants.
252 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 21, 2024
About the author
Lauren Asher
18 books51.3k followersJoin my Facebook group for exclusive content and sneak peeks: https://bit.ly/BandiniBabes
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About Me:
Lauren Asher is a New York Times, USA Today, Sunday Times, Globe and Mail, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of contemporary romance. She enjoys writing about flawed yet relatable characters you can’t help falling in love with and fictional worlds you wish were real.
Her favorite activities outside of writing include DIY projects, binging old episodes of Parks and Rec, and searching Yelp for new restaurants before choosing her trusted favorite. She works best after her morning coffee and will never deny a nap.
Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laurenasher...
About Me:
Lauren Asher is a New York Times, USA Today, Sunday Times, Globe and Mail, and Publishers Weekly bestselling author of contemporary romance. She enjoys writing about flawed yet relatable characters you can’t help falling in love with and fictional worlds you wish were real.
Her favorite activities outside of writing include DIY projects, binging old episodes of Parks and Rec, and searching Yelp for new restaurants before choosing her trusted favorite. She works best after her morning coffee and will never deny a nap.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 4,329 reviews
November 26, 2024
3.75 stars! This novella is sooo cute!! Even though this book is on the short side (bc its a novella), I still really cared for the characters. It almost felt like a full-length book but just packaged into around 200 pages! The banter was great! I kept highlighting so many lines which I rarely do in books. Doctor Darling (yes that's his last name) is so🥵
I also really liked that this book is set around the holidays, and they do some holiday activities, but it's not overly Christmasy. I have felt mixed feelings about Christmas books in the past, so I appreciated that this one made me feel festive but in a subtle way.
Super cute!! I always adore Lauren Asher's writing.
I also really liked that this book is set around the holidays, and they do some holiday activities, but it's not overly Christmasy. I have felt mixed feelings about Christmas books in the past, so I appreciated that this one made me feel festive but in a subtle way.
Super cute!! I always adore Lauren Asher's writing.
November 24, 2024
I REALLY NEEDED SOME CHRISTMAS CHEER
Currently reading
November 26, 2024Available now!
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Nu9lOU
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/MyDecemberDarling
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/3AOFM7J
Barnes & Noble Paperback: https://bit.ly/4ewZnat
Listen on Spotify!
https://spoti.fi/4fPILf6
Narrated by: Noah B. Perez & Vanessa Vasquez
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4eL5top
Download today or read for FREE with Kindle Unlimited
Amazon: https://amzn.to/3Nu9lOU
Amazon Worldwide: https://mybook.to/MyDecemberDarling
Amazon Paperback: https://amzn.to/3AOFM7J
Barnes & Noble Paperback: https://bit.ly/4ewZnat
Listen on Spotify!
https://spoti.fi/4fPILf6
Narrated by: Noah B. Perez & Vanessa Vasquez
Goodreads: https://bit.ly/4eL5top
December 17, 2024
Where can I find my own doctor darling?? 🥹🤞🏻
December 12, 2024
this was cute! quick and easy holiday novella
November 30, 2024
જ⁀➴ 4.25 ✰
☃꙳·❅°*˖ my thoughts
This was such a cute, quick and easy read.
I’m surprised that the despite the novella's brevity, the main characters were well developed something that’s not easy to achieve in shorter works. One of my biggest frustrations with novellas is how often the characters feel underexplored, making it hard to truly connect with them. But in this case, Lauren did an excellent job of creating layered, compelling characters that felt authentic and genuine.
I know that a lot of people don’t like the books with 500 pages but after reading this I need more of Luke and Catalina, the 200 pages wasn’t enough because they are the cutest couple😭 One of the best things about this story is how it avoids unnecessary drama—no forced conflict or third-act breakup. It’s refreshingly simple and heartfelt, making it the perfect cozy, feel-good read🫶🏻
Another aspect I want to highlight is how the book delves into the heartbreaking reality of losing patients in the medical field. It’s such a cruel and raw truth, and I can’t begin to imagine the emotional toll it takes on doctors and nurses, the way Lauren touches that aspect added a depth layer to the story.
My only complaint is that the whole thing about Catalina sister marring her ex-boyfriend got too repetitive, to the point that it was just awkward.
overall: this might be one of my favorite novellas ever. EVERYONE GO READ IT🥰
☃꙳·❅°*˖ characters
.ೃ࿐ catalina
Catalina is known in Lake Wisteria as the "ice queen," someone guarded and seemingly unreachable. She’s a NICU nurse but decided to work traveling to different states, a lifestyle she’s embraced because she’s never truly felt like she belongs anywhere. Her transient life mirrors the emotional distance she keeps from others, leaving her constantly searching for a sense of home and connection.
I see so much of myself in Catalina. As someone who is quiet, shy, and not naturally inclined to interact with people, I often find that others misinterpret me as being rude or distant. In truth, what is needed is someone willing to take the first step, an initiative. That’s exactly how I think Catalina felt—misunderstood and waiting for someone who could see beyond the surface.
Catalina just wants to be loved, but she struggles with how to open her heart to others. It was so moving to watch her slowly let Luke in, allowing him to truly see her and giving love a chance. Her journey of growth was beautifully written, and her character development was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of the story.
ೃ࿐ luke
Luke is incredibly sweet, kind, and understanding—I absolutely adore him. He’s the epitome of a true gentleman. I loved how he went above and beyond for Catalina, doing everything he could to make her laugh, feel safe, and find comfort even in overwhelming situations. His thoughtfulness and care made their connection feel so genuine and heartfelt.
to be loved is to be seen
⤷ Nothing absolutely nothing about Catalina escaped Luke’s notice. He saw her in a way no one else ever had. He bought her a Lego set after noticing how much she wanted to build that specific one, made one of her favorite Christmas desserts just to make her smile, and even bought a coffee machine for the hospital break room with her favorite flavor, just so they could share more time together😭
Luke truly fought for Catalina and never gave up on her, even when she tried to push him away. He was unwavering in his certainty that he wanted a relationship with her, and he did everything in his power to show her that. He wasn’t afraid to be open and honest about his feelings. We love a man who is secure in his emotions and willing to take the lead when it comes to love🤭 I seriously need him.
˚₊ · »-♡→ luke + catalina
⤷ my fav couple obsessed with building lego setsᡣ𐭩
They match each other’s energy so perfectly, and their chemistry is off the charts.Their relationship is incredibly comforting to read, and while some might consider it insta-love given how quickly they fall for each other in such a short span, I found it endearing and thoroughly enjoyed it. The little gestures between them were everything. As I read, it was impossible not to feel the depth of their care and affection for one another—each action, each word, was a reflection of how much they truly meant to each other.
Every time Catalina sees a couple in public, a deep longing stirs within her—a yearning for the kind of love that seems to come so effortlessly to others. She knows she has to take a chance, to open herself up if she truly wants to find a connection. Yet, no one had ever truly made the effort to see her, to understand the person she was—until Luke. I really love them together, they are a cute couple and supportive of each other.
💌 tropes:
ꨄ︎ doctor x nurse
ꨄ︎ cinnamon roll mmc x closed off fmc
ꨄ︎ small town
ꨄ︎ best man x maid of honor
ꨄ︎ he falls first
🎧ྀི cataluke mini playlistᰔ
⤷ people watching ⟡ conan gray { catalina song for real }
⤷ shakes ⟡ luke hemming
⤷ emotions ⟡ 5sos
⤷ pancakes for dinner ⟡ lizzy mcalpine
⤷ dandelions ⟡ ruth
⤷ you are the reason ⟡ calum scott
⤷ we fell in love in october ⟡ girl in red
-‘๑’- my favorite quotes and scenes -‘๑’-
・❥・Catalina draws invisible circles around my heart with the pad of her finger. “Your heart is beating fast.”
“Because you make me nervous.”
“Nervous?” She cracks a smile. “Me?”
“Yeah. You.”
“Why?” she asks with a smile in her voice.
“Because you’re you.”
“And who am I exactly?”
The girl I can see myself falling for, even if she has no intention of falling with me.
“Someone special,” I answer instead.
・❥・“How will you ever find love when you find every reason to keep your walls up?”
・❥・“Spending time with Catalina feels like the most natural thing in the world, and I don’t want to say goodbye at the end of the night. There is something about her that always keeps me coming back for more.
More time. More laughter. More of her.”
・❥・“I’ve never been so affected by the sound of someone else’s happiness before, nor have I craved finding other ways to elicit the same response again.”
・❥・“I look down and find her smiling. It’s small, but my heart trips over itself for a moment.”
・❥・“I yearn for a love like hers. A love that might not be perfect, but one that will stand the test of time and all the trials that life brings our way.”
・❥・“She finally cracks, and a soft laugh pours from her lips, feeding me in a way food never can. Catalina isn’t the type for loud belly laughs that leave someone’s stomach aching, but I’ve never heard a better sound than the one she makes because of me.”
ᝰ🎄 pre-read: ᯓᡣ𐭩୭˚.
I’m so excited to read this🤭 pausing all my current reads for this one, also the cover it’s soo cute!!
⋆𐙚₊˚⊹“There is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve.”⋆𐙚₊˚⊹
☃꙳·❅°*˖ my thoughts
This was such a cute, quick and easy read.
I’m surprised that the despite the novella's brevity, the main characters were well developed something that’s not easy to achieve in shorter works. One of my biggest frustrations with novellas is how often the characters feel underexplored, making it hard to truly connect with them. But in this case, Lauren did an excellent job of creating layered, compelling characters that felt authentic and genuine.
I know that a lot of people don’t like the books with 500 pages but after reading this I need more of Luke and Catalina, the 200 pages wasn’t enough because they are the cutest couple😭 One of the best things about this story is how it avoids unnecessary drama—no forced conflict or third-act breakup. It’s refreshingly simple and heartfelt, making it the perfect cozy, feel-good read🫶🏻
Another aspect I want to highlight is how the book delves into the heartbreaking reality of losing patients in the medical field. It’s such a cruel and raw truth, and I can’t begin to imagine the emotional toll it takes on doctors and nurses, the way Lauren touches that aspect added a depth layer to the story.
My only complaint is that the whole thing about Catalina sister marring her ex-boyfriend got too repetitive, to the point that it was just awkward.
overall: this might be one of my favorite novellas ever. EVERYONE GO READ IT🥰
☃꙳·❅°*˖ characters
.ೃ࿐ catalina
⋆⁺₊❅.ᐟ “It’s obvious that Catalina isn’t stuck-up or rude like some people might assume based off one interaction, but rather, she is a shy, cautious person who dislikes the unknown.”
Catalina is known in Lake Wisteria as the "ice queen," someone guarded and seemingly unreachable. She’s a NICU nurse but decided to work traveling to different states, a lifestyle she’s embraced because she’s never truly felt like she belongs anywhere. Her transient life mirrors the emotional distance she keeps from others, leaving her constantly searching for a sense of home and connection.
I see so much of myself in Catalina. As someone who is quiet, shy, and not naturally inclined to interact with people, I often find that others misinterpret me as being rude or distant. In truth, what is needed is someone willing to take the first step, an initiative. That’s exactly how I think Catalina felt—misunderstood and waiting for someone who could see beyond the surface.
Catalina just wants to be loved, but she struggles with how to open her heart to others. It was so moving to watch her slowly let Luke in, allowing him to truly see her and giving love a chance. Her journey of growth was beautifully written, and her character development was, without a doubt, one of the highlights of the story.
: ̗̀➛“No way he willingly wants to talk to me of all people. No one else bothers with me, so why would he try so hard?.”:(
ೃ࿐ luke
⋆⁺₊❅.ᐟ “Luke has a way of making anyone feel comfortable in his presence.”
Luke is incredibly sweet, kind, and understanding—I absolutely adore him. He’s the epitome of a true gentleman. I loved how he went above and beyond for Catalina, doing everything he could to make her laugh, feel safe, and find comfort even in overwhelming situations. His thoughtfulness and care made their connection feel so genuine and heartfelt.
to be loved is to be seen
possible spoilers mentioned
⤷ Nothing absolutely nothing about Catalina escaped Luke’s notice. He saw her in a way no one else ever had. He bought her a Lego set after noticing how much she wanted to build that specific one, made one of her favorite Christmas desserts just to make her smile, and even bought a coffee machine for the hospital break room with her favorite flavor, just so they could share more time together😭
Luke truly fought for Catalina and never gave up on her, even when she tried to push him away. He was unwavering in his certainty that he wanted a relationship with her, and he did everything in his power to show her that. He wasn’t afraid to be open and honest about his feelings. We love a man who is secure in his emotions and willing to take the lead when it comes to love🤭 I seriously need him.
: ̗̀➛“it’s only taken a few genuine encounters to realize he really is the kind of guy who likes going out of his way to help others.”
˚₊ · »-♡→ luke + catalina
⤷ my fav couple obsessed with building lego setsᡣ𐭩
They match each other’s energy so perfectly, and their chemistry is off the charts.Their relationship is incredibly comforting to read, and while some might consider it insta-love given how quickly they fall for each other in such a short span, I found it endearing and thoroughly enjoyed it. The little gestures between them were everything. As I read, it was impossible not to feel the depth of their care and affection for one another—each action, each word, was a reflection of how much they truly meant to each other.
Every time Catalina sees a couple in public, a deep longing stirs within her—a yearning for the kind of love that seems to come so effortlessly to others. She knows she has to take a chance, to open herself up if she truly wants to find a connection. Yet, no one had ever truly made the effort to see her, to understand the person she was—until Luke. I really love them together, they are a cute couple and supportive of each other.
⋆𐙚₊˚⊹“What kind of love do you think you deserve then?”
“I’m not sure,” I answer honestly.
“Then it’s up to us to figure it out. Together.”⋆𐙚₊˚⊹
💌 tropes:
ꨄ︎ doctor x nurse
ꨄ︎ cinnamon roll mmc x closed off fmc
ꨄ︎ small town
ꨄ︎ best man x maid of honor
ꨄ︎ he falls first
🎧ྀི cataluke mini playlistᰔ
⤷ people watching ⟡ conan gray { catalina song for real }
⤷ shakes ⟡ luke hemming
⤷ emotions ⟡ 5sos
⤷ pancakes for dinner ⟡ lizzy mcalpine
⤷ dandelions ⟡ ruth
⤷ you are the reason ⟡ calum scott
⤷ we fell in love in october ⟡ girl in red
-‘๑’- my favorite quotes and scenes -‘๑’-
・❥・Catalina draws invisible circles around my heart with the pad of her finger. “Your heart is beating fast.”
“Because you make me nervous.”
“Nervous?” She cracks a smile. “Me?”
“Yeah. You.”
“Why?” she asks with a smile in her voice.
“Because you’re you.”
“And who am I exactly?”
The girl I can see myself falling for, even if she has no intention of falling with me.
“Someone special,” I answer instead.
・❥・“How will you ever find love when you find every reason to keep your walls up?”
・❥・“Spending time with Catalina feels like the most natural thing in the world, and I don’t want to say goodbye at the end of the night. There is something about her that always keeps me coming back for more.
More time. More laughter. More of her.”
・❥・“I’ve never been so affected by the sound of someone else’s happiness before, nor have I craved finding other ways to elicit the same response again.”
・❥・“I look down and find her smiling. It’s small, but my heart trips over itself for a moment.”
・❥・“I yearn for a love like hers. A love that might not be perfect, but one that will stand the test of time and all the trials that life brings our way.”
・❥・“She finally cracks, and a soft laugh pours from her lips, feeding me in a way food never can. Catalina isn’t the type for loud belly laughs that leave someone’s stomach aching, but I’ve never heard a better sound than the one she makes because of me.”
ᝰ🎄 pre-read: ᯓᡣ𐭩୭˚.
I’m so excited to read this🤭 pausing all my current reads for this one, also the cover it’s soo cute!!
December 10, 2024
This was so freaking cute, like are we even serious rn?! Lauren, spectacular, I’ll take 14 of them right now
December 5, 2024
2.5 stars
Okay, hear me out—I really wanted to like this, especially since I’m in the festive mood and super hyped for a cozy holiday romance. But holy hell, this book was a struggle. How did I manage to drag myself through 243 pages of a novella when I can (usually) breeze through Lauren Asher’s 500+ page books? HOW?! 🤯 It's honestly impressive. You'd think a shorter book would be snappier, more engaging, but nope—this thing DRAGGED. I was bored out of my mind.
I would have rated this higher if it wasn’t a Lauren Asher book, and as someone who enjoyed the Lakefront Billionaires series and some of her other books, I can’t help but compare her works. Unfortunately, this novella just didn’t live up to those other books in my opinion.
Catalina wasn’t terrible. I get the "ice queen" vibe—keeping people at arm’s length, not exactly wearing her heart on her sleeve. That’s relatable, sure. But honestly it didn’t make up for the fact that I just didn’t care about her. And Luke? The charming, persistent guy who won’t take no for an answer was fine. But I hated how insta-love their romance was. I knew going in that there’d be some insta-love, but usually, that at least feels like something. Not here. I felt ZERO chemistry between them. It was just forced moments where they were supposed to be falling in love, and I honestly couldn’t have cared less. 🙄
By the end of the book, I felt ✨nothing.✨ No warmth, no excitement, no connection to either character. I don’t even know how Lauren Asher made this novella feel longer than her full-length books. It’s truly baffling.
────⟡⋆˙✩ ⋆˙⟡────
In my festive era! 🎄💫 Side note:So grateful this isn't one of her usual 500+ page books 😅
Okay, hear me out—I really wanted to like this, especially since I’m in the festive mood and super hyped for a cozy holiday romance. But holy hell, this book was a struggle. How did I manage to drag myself through 243 pages of a novella when I can (usually) breeze through Lauren Asher’s 500+ page books? HOW?! 🤯 It's honestly impressive. You'd think a shorter book would be snappier, more engaging, but nope—this thing DRAGGED. I was bored out of my mind.
I would have rated this higher if it wasn’t a Lauren Asher book, and as someone who enjoyed the Lakefront Billionaires series and some of her other books, I can’t help but compare her works. Unfortunately, this novella just didn’t live up to those other books in my opinion.
Catalina wasn’t terrible. I get the "ice queen" vibe—keeping people at arm’s length, not exactly wearing her heart on her sleeve. That’s relatable, sure. But honestly it didn’t make up for the fact that I just didn’t care about her. And Luke? The charming, persistent guy who won’t take no for an answer was fine. But I hated how insta-love their romance was. I knew going in that there’d be some insta-love, but usually, that at least feels like something. Not here. I felt ZERO chemistry between them. It was just forced moments where they were supposed to be falling in love, and I honestly couldn’t have cared less. 🙄
By the end of the book, I felt ✨nothing.✨ No warmth, no excitement, no connection to either character. I don’t even know how Lauren Asher made this novella feel longer than her full-length books. It’s truly baffling.
────⟡⋆˙✩ ⋆˙⟡────
In my festive era! 🎄💫 Side note:
Want to read
November 14, 2024petition to make all her books this length because we do not need 500+ page romance novels 😐
November 23, 2024
”To those who were torn between Doctors McSteamy and McDreamy… Get ready to fall in love with Doctor Darling.”
✨ pre-read: I’m already up to my 8th Christmas read and it’s not even December 🥰
—
New Lauren Asher and it’s festive?! My end of year tbr is looking good 🤩
✨ pre-read: I’m already up to my 8th Christmas read and it’s not even December 🥰
—
New Lauren Asher and it’s festive?! My end of year tbr is looking good 🤩
November 23, 2024
SOMEONE CALL HALLMARK, NETFLIX OR PRIME AND MAKE THIS A MOVIE RIGHT NOW!!!🥹🥹🥹🥹🥹 LAUREN ASHER REALLY SAID LET ME WRITE THE CUTEST MOST HEART WARMING SWEET CUDDLY FUN CHRISTMAS BOOK EVERRRRRRRRR
IF YOU SEARCH FOR THE WORD CHALANT AND THEN MULTIPLY WHAT YOU GOT WITH TEN TIMES YOU WOULD HAVE DOCTOR DARLING AND I WAS HERE FOR THAT🩷
anyways this is them btw;
IF YOU SEARCH FOR THE WORD CHALANT AND THEN MULTIPLY WHAT YOU GOT WITH TEN TIMES YOU WOULD HAVE DOCTOR DARLING AND I WAS HERE FOR THAT🩷
anyways this is them btw;
December 7, 2024
°•*⁀➷・❥・“𝓣𝓱𝓮𝓻𝓮 𝓲𝓼 𝓪𝓵𝔀𝓪𝔂𝓼 𝓻𝓸𝓸𝓶 𝓯𝓸𝓻 𝓵𝓸𝓿𝓮 𝓲𝓷 𝓸𝓾𝓻 𝓵𝓲𝓿𝓮𝓼, 𝓼𝓸 𝓵𝓸𝓷𝓰 𝓪𝓼 𝔀𝓮 𝓪𝓻𝓮 𝓸𝓹𝓮𝓷 𝓽𝓸 𝓪𝓬𝓬𝓮𝓹𝓽𝓲𝓷𝓰 𝓽𝓱𝓮 𝓴𝓲𝓷𝓭 𝔀𝓮 𝓽𝓱𝓲𝓷𝓴 𝔀𝓮 𝓭𝓮𝓼𝓮𝓻𝓿𝓮.”・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⛄07/12/24
spoiler-free review 💫
I must say this book alone made me feel so single in a million different languages.😭 Like, OH MY GOD, I was seriously blushing and grinning throughout this whole book to the point my cheeks were hurting.🥰💖 It's like watching one of the cutesy heartwarming hallmark movies with a hot cocoa by side 🤭
Read if you like 🎄:
🎀 Short Novella
🎀 Small town romance
🎀 Best Man x Maid of Honor
🎀 Doctor x Nurse
🎀 Ex boyfriend's best friend
🎀 Dual POV
✨️ meet n greet with the cast 🎬 ✨️
Catalina Martinez 👩🏻⚕️~ a travelling pediatric nurse who doesn't like staying in one place for so long. She visits her hometown twice a year. And this time, she's in town as the maid of honor for her younger sister's holiday wedding, whose groom is also happened to be her ex-boyfriend. People call her the not-so-nice martinez sister because she is closed off and doesn't like being sociable.
Luke Darling👨🏻⚕️~ a doctor, the sweetest and cutest golden retriever cinnamonroll mmc. He's the best man of the groom. He's literally an outgoing person, making everyone feel comfortable around him in an instant. Catalina thinks he's a comic book superhero, and that he is too friendly for real 🤭 Also, might I say he falls for Catalina first? 🙈💘 He doesn't back down and is determined to tear down the walls that Catalina has built around herself. He finds ways to make her smile. His thoughtfulness when it comes to her made their connection feel so realistic and genuine. Please can someone tell me where to find a dashing Doctor Darling as well?😩💓
Gabriella Martinez & Aiden 👰🏻🤵🏻~ Although Aiden was Cata's ex and Luke's bsf, and Gabi is Cata's sister, I loved how they helped Cata & Luke to have their own love story. They were geniunely happy that Catalina could find happiness 🥰
🌶 chp: 23
Overall, this was such a cute, quick, and easy read for me. If you are looking for a heartfelt, sweet, short romance book, then this one is for you. I highly recommend reading it!🥰💗 I don't normally read holiday romance books, but this was way too cute to pass up.
𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 💌:
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⛄03/12/24
RTC soon, this book alone called me single in a million different languages 😭 My cheeks are literally hurting from grinning for so long and blushing profoundly. Someone please tell me where can I get a cute and dashing Doctor Darling too?!🙈💘
⛄02/12/24
It's December, which means it's finally time for this book to be on my radar! Short book from one of my favourite authors you say? I already know I'm going to love it!!!🤭💗
⛄07/12/24
spoiler-free review 💫
I must say this book alone made me feel so single in a million different languages.😭 Like, OH MY GOD, I was seriously blushing and grinning throughout this whole book to the point my cheeks were hurting.🥰💖 It's like watching one of the cutesy heartwarming hallmark movies with a hot cocoa by side 🤭
Read if you like 🎄:
🎀 Short Novella
🎀 Small town romance
🎀 Best Man x Maid of Honor
🎀 Doctor x Nurse
🎀 Ex boyfriend's best friend
🎀 Dual POV
✨️ meet n greet with the cast 🎬 ✨️
“Most people in town call Catalina an ice queen, but everyone has a melting point.”
Catalina Martinez 👩🏻⚕️~ a travelling pediatric nurse who doesn't like staying in one place for so long. She visits her hometown twice a year. And this time, she's in town as the maid of honor for her younger sister's holiday wedding, whose groom is also happened to be her ex-boyfriend. People call her the not-so-nice martinez sister because she is closed off and doesn't like being sociable.
“Tonight, I didn’t only make Catalina Martinez laugh, but smile twice, and I’ll be damned because I’m already looking forward to when I can do it again.”
Luke Darling👨🏻⚕️~ a doctor, the sweetest and cutest golden retriever cinnamonroll mmc. He's the best man of the groom. He's literally an outgoing person, making everyone feel comfortable around him in an instant. Catalina thinks he's a comic book superhero, and that he is too friendly for real 🤭 Also, might I say he falls for Catalina first? 🙈💘 He doesn't back down and is determined to tear down the walls that Catalina has built around herself. He finds ways to make her smile. His thoughtfulness when it comes to her made their connection feel so realistic and genuine. Please can someone tell me where to find a dashing Doctor Darling as well?😩💓
Gabriella Martinez & Aiden 👰🏻🤵🏻~ Although Aiden was Cata's ex and Luke's bsf, and Gabi is Cata's sister, I loved how they helped Cata & Luke to have their own love story. They were geniunely happy that Catalina could find happiness 🥰
🌶 chp: 23
Overall, this was such a cute, quick, and easy read for me. If you are looking for a heartfelt, sweet, short romance book, then this one is for you. I highly recommend reading it!🥰💗 I don't normally read holiday romance books, but this was way too cute to pass up.
𝓢𝓸𝓶𝓮 𝓯𝓪𝓿𝓸𝓾𝓻𝓲𝓽𝓮 𝓪𝓷𝓷𝓸𝓽𝓪𝓽𝓲𝓸𝓷𝓼 💌:
“Growing up means gaining perspective about our parents and the fact that they're people too. People who can drive us crazy, but also people who can make mistakes and have flaws just like the rest of us.”
“Serious question. If I invest in this costly machine, would you come visit me in the first-floor break room?”
“You? No. The machine? Absolutely.”
“I'm laughing at you, not with you.”
“So long as you're doing so, that's all that matter to me.”
“I don't want you to judge me.”
“I won't.”
“You say that now.”
“And I'll say it every day until I've convinced you to let me help.”
“Then allow me to make myself clear one last time, I'm interested in you, which means I want to spend time getting to know you.”
“Making the most of two weeks with you seems better than spending a lifetime wondering what could've been.”
“I'd love nothing more than to help you.”
“You're annoyingly smug right now.”
“And you're adorably flustered.”
“Did you memorize my schedule?”
“No.”
“It's okay if you did. I'll think it's cute, in a stalkerish kind of way.”
“Are you always this exasperating?”
“Depends on if I'm in the presence of a beautiful woman like you or not.”
“I'll even split a Dragon's Breath roll with you.”
“That's masochistic.”
“I prefer the term "romantic" since they'll always remind me of you.”
“There's no place I'd rather be than her with you.”
“What kind of love do you think you deserve then?”
“I'm not sure.”
“Then it's up to us to figure it out. Together.”
ˋ°•*⁀➷・❥・𝓟𝓻𝓮𝓿𝓲𝓮𝔀・❥・ˏˋ°•*⁀➷
⛄03/12/24
RTC soon, this book alone called me single in a million different languages 😭 My cheeks are literally hurting from grinning for so long and blushing profoundly. Someone please tell me where can I get a cute and dashing Doctor Darling too?!🙈💘
⛄02/12/24
It's December, which means it's finally time for this book to be on my radar! Short book from one of my favourite authors you say? I already know I'm going to love it!!!🤭💗
December 4, 2024
3.5★
main thoughts:
This book was cute and very fun and entertaining, but even though it was a novella I want more of their story tbh😭 I feel like this happens almost every time I read novellas, I just always want more. This rating doesn’t mean it was bad I just feel like it wasn’t anything too special, but it was still an enjoyable read and definitely has all the holiday feels😆
characters:
Catalina:❄️I have a soft spot for her I knew she was more than she seemed and some of her internal thoughts reminded me of the ones I have sometimes. I do wish we went a little more into depth about why she is the way she is and talk furthur about why she didnt get along with her mother, but at the same time we still got some answers. I do love her and i think she has the sweetest heart she just hides it.
Luke:🩺 ughh he is such a teddy bear🧸 I love him even though his last name is darling😭 he deserves a better family and I wish we explored how that effected him more. I love that he knew what he wanted and didn't stop until he got it.
romance:
I love the both of them and I know this book was more faced paced cause it was short and it had to be, but I would have loved a longer epilogue or more moments between the two of them, they were definitely cute though I could see their romance being a longer story possibly. Their love also kinda reminds me of a hallmark movie it was very cheesy and sweet, but I still had fun, just want more of them I feel like.
extra:
I would still totally recommend this book if you want a cute romance story with holiday vibes and for it to make your standards even higher🫣
pre review:
╰┈➤ finished on december 3rd, 2024
This was cute🤭 small rtc
🎄pre read: ❄️
╰┈➤started on december 2nd, 2024
So this is my first lauren asher book which is actually a novella, but I needed the christmas vibes and wanted to give it a try🫣
main thoughts:
This book was cute and very fun and entertaining, but even though it was a novella I want more of their story tbh😭 I feel like this happens almost every time I read novellas, I just always want more. This rating doesn’t mean it was bad I just feel like it wasn’t anything too special, but it was still an enjoyable read and definitely has all the holiday feels😆
characters:
Catalina:❄️I have a soft spot for her I knew she was more than she seemed and some of her internal thoughts reminded me of the ones I have sometimes. I do wish we went a little more into depth about why she is the way she is and talk furthur about why she didnt get along with her mother, but at the same time we still got some answers. I do love her and i think she has the sweetest heart she just hides it.
Luke:🩺 ughh he is such a teddy bear🧸 I love him even though his last name is darling😭 he deserves a better family and I wish we explored how that effected him more. I love that he knew what he wanted and didn't stop until he got it.
romance:
I love the both of them and I know this book was more faced paced cause it was short and it had to be, but I would have loved a longer epilogue or more moments between the two of them, they were definitely cute though I could see their romance being a longer story possibly. Their love also kinda reminds me of a hallmark movie it was very cheesy and sweet, but I still had fun, just want more of them I feel like.
extra:
I would still totally recommend this book if you want a cute romance story with holiday vibes and for it to make your standards even higher🫣
pre review:
╰┈➤ finished on december 3rd, 2024
This was cute🤭 small rtc
🎄pre read: ❄️
╰┈➤started on december 2nd, 2024
So this is my first lauren asher book which is actually a novella, but I needed the christmas vibes and wanted to give it a try🫣
December 1, 2024
2.75 stars rounded up
🎄┊plot & overall thoughts 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 my december darling follows catalina and luke's relationship. they meet through catalina's sister & luke's best friend getting married, and start to bond as they work on catalina's maid of honor speech together. this book was so adorable!! it's marketed as a christmas romance novella, and that's exactly what it gave. the characters were cute and it gave all the christmas vibes. i highly recommend if you're looking for something short and sweet 💞🎁!!
☕┊luke darling 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 ...yes, his last name is actually darling 😭😭 but i guess it adds to the story. luke was so sweet and understanding towards catalina and it was the cutest thing ever. he understood her for who she was, not just the "ice queen" layer that she puts on for people. i loved the way he protected her and defended her against people who were rude to her for her "ice queen attitude".
❄️┊catalina martinez 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 i didn't hate her... but i didn't love her either. she was pretty bland, and i think lauren tried to give her an "ice queen" vibe, but she didn't give ice queen that much. she just gave "i'm introverted." it took about 2 seconds for luke to break through her, while they were enemies for months. however, she was super sweet and loving towards her sister, which i loved reading about 🥹💝.
💫┊some quotes! 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “tonight, i didn’t only make catalina martinez laugh, but smile twice, and i’ll be damned because i’m already looking forward to when i can do it again."
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “that there is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve.”
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “growing up means gaining perspective on our parents and the fact that they’re people too. people who can drive us crazy, but also people who can make mistakes and have flaws just like the rest of us.”
🎄┊plot & overall thoughts 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 my december darling follows catalina and luke's relationship. they meet through catalina's sister & luke's best friend getting married, and start to bond as they work on catalina's maid of honor speech together. this book was so adorable!! it's marketed as a christmas romance novella, and that's exactly what it gave. the characters were cute and it gave all the christmas vibes. i highly recommend if you're looking for something short and sweet 💞🎁!!
☕┊luke darling 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 ...yes, his last name is actually darling 😭😭 but i guess it adds to the story. luke was so sweet and understanding towards catalina and it was the cutest thing ever. he understood her for who she was, not just the "ice queen" layer that she puts on for people. i loved the way he protected her and defended her against people who were rude to her for her "ice queen attitude".
❄️┊catalina martinez 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃 i didn't hate her... but i didn't love her either. she was pretty bland, and i think lauren tried to give her an "ice queen" vibe, but she didn't give ice queen that much. she just gave "i'm introverted." it took about 2 seconds for luke to break through her, while they were enemies for months. however, she was super sweet and loving towards her sister, which i loved reading about 🥹💝.
💫┊some quotes! 𓏲 ࣪₊♡𓂃
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “tonight, i didn’t only make catalina martinez laugh, but smile twice, and i’ll be damned because i’m already looking forward to when i can do it again."
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “that there is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve.”
ˏˋ°•*⁀➷ “growing up means gaining perspective on our parents and the fact that they’re people too. people who can drive us crazy, but also people who can make mistakes and have flaws just like the rest of us.”
Read
December 12, 2024pre-read:
my fomo is getting at me. i have to see what the hype is all about because almost everyone is raving about this book!
my fomo is getting at me. i have to see what the hype is all about because almost everyone is raving about this book!
December 3, 2024
4⭐️
This book called me single in a million different ways at least warn me next time before I read something so WHOLESOME! 😭
He didn't just kiss me. He ruined every kiss of my past, present, and future, reshaping my expectations and creating a craving that only he can satisfy.
This was 232 pages absolute adorable scenes, amazing banter, and off-the-charts chemistry!! I enjoyed every last bit of this book. It was the perfect read to kick off December with! For such a short book, I really found myself relating to Catalina and her struggles and worries. The one thing I love about Lauren Ashers books is that her characters feel so real, and clearly even with a short book!
I really loved Luke UGH HE'S SO PERFECT!! New book boyfriend unlocked! I loved the reverse grumpy sunshine and Luke was just the perfect bundle of happiness ugh I couldn't help but giggle as he was pining for Catalina. 🤭
I really liked the whole best man x maid of honor trope! I haven't actually read one before and this was just so good. Overall, this is such a heartwarming and feel-good book you just can't help but smile and giggle to. Lauren Asher has done it again!! I will definitely continue to auto-buy her books. 💚❤️
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's December 1st....
You know what that means 🤩🩵
This book called me single in a million different ways at least warn me next time before I read something so WHOLESOME! 😭
He didn't just kiss me. He ruined every kiss of my past, present, and future, reshaping my expectations and creating a craving that only he can satisfy.
This was 232 pages absolute adorable scenes, amazing banter, and off-the-charts chemistry!! I enjoyed every last bit of this book. It was the perfect read to kick off December with! For such a short book, I really found myself relating to Catalina and her struggles and worries. The one thing I love about Lauren Ashers books is that her characters feel so real, and clearly even with a short book!
I really loved Luke UGH HE'S SO PERFECT!! New book boyfriend unlocked! I loved the reverse grumpy sunshine and Luke was just the perfect bundle of happiness ugh I couldn't help but giggle as he was pining for Catalina. 🤭
I really liked the whole best man x maid of honor trope! I haven't actually read one before and this was just so good. Overall, this is such a heartwarming and feel-good book you just can't help but smile and giggle to. Lauren Asher has done it again!! I will definitely continue to auto-buy her books. 💚❤️
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
It's December 1st....
You know what that means 🤩🩵
December 11, 2024
Nothing makes me giggle like a Lauren Asher book! I need a Dr. Darling in my life literally right this second. 🫶🏼
December 15, 2024
Okay, why is building LEGO sets with someone suddenly goals? 😅
✩ 4 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Holiday Romance
➼ Small Town
➼ Novella
➼ Nurse x Doctor
➼ Home for the Holidays
➼ Best Man x Maid of Honor
➼ Ex’s Best Friend
➼ Love x LEGO
➼ FMC’s Sister is Marrying her Ex
➼ HEA
➼ Dual POV/Duet
This was so cute and well paced. Perfect for anyone looking for a short and sweet happily ever after holiday romance. I did think it was pretty strange that her sister was marrying her ex (eww)… is there a full length novel about them that I missed? The fall out this choice caused with her relationship with her sister however felt very realistic. Who would want to stick around their hometown to watch their sister fall in love with their ex? Literally no one, that’s who.
Four stars is about the highest I’m willing to rate a novella, but this was very good. I loved both MC’s and felt that they were very well suited for each other which definitely isn’t always the case. 🙃 The intimate scenes were pretty unmemorable honestly, and I feel like Lauren Asher over uses the whole “do you like what you see?” line, but other that those small issues, this was a very enjoyable read. Holiday romances tend to pretty lame in my opinion, but this one was worth the read!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Okay, y’all convinced me! Consider me influenced. 🎄
Squeezing this novella in even though I have like 8 books waiting on my holds shelf. 😅
✩ 4 stars ✩
What to Expect:
➼ Holiday Romance
➼ Small Town
➼ Novella
➼ Nurse x Doctor
➼ Home for the Holidays
➼ Best Man x Maid of Honor
➼ Ex’s Best Friend
➼ Love x LEGO
➼ FMC’s Sister is Marrying her Ex
➼ HEA
➼ Dual POV/Duet
This was so cute and well paced. Perfect for anyone looking for a short and sweet happily ever after holiday romance. I did think it was pretty strange that her sister was marrying her ex (eww)… is there a full length novel about them that I missed? The fall out this choice caused with her relationship with her sister however felt very realistic. Who would want to stick around their hometown to watch their sister fall in love with their ex? Literally no one, that’s who.
Four stars is about the highest I’m willing to rate a novella, but this was very good. I loved both MC’s and felt that they were very well suited for each other which definitely isn’t always the case. 🙃 The intimate scenes were pretty unmemorable honestly, and I feel like Lauren Asher over uses the whole “do you like what you see?” line, but other that those small issues, this was a very enjoyable read. Holiday romances tend to pretty lame in my opinion, but this one was worth the read!
✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼ ҉ ✼
Pre-read: Okay, y’all convinced me! Consider me influenced. 🎄
Squeezing this novella in even though I have like 8 books waiting on my holds shelf. 😅
November 25, 2024
5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
~Summary~
AHHHHH THIS WAS SO FUCKING CUTE.
This is my first time reading a holiday type of romance and it didn’t disappoint at all. This book was hilarious, joyful, cute, sweet, heartwarming. I COULD GO ON. I genuinely have zero complaints for this book, I love everything about it. Luke is amazing and Catalina is just as good. I’ll be gushing about this book whenever the Christmas season rolls around till the end of time from this day forth. 😤
“Are all your conversations this riveting?” “Possibly.” “Three whole syllables?” I check my pulse. “Warn a guy next time.”
💛Luke💛
LUKE DARLING YOU ADORABLE SOUL.
He’s honestly everything you’d want and more from a guy. He’s funny, charming, flirty and caring. And just to make it even better, he LOVES BUILDING LEGOS WITH WHO HE LOVES…he’s perfect.
He was so dedicated to try and get Catalina to spend more time with him whilst also knowing and understanding that he has to be patient for her and he did just that.
His relationship with Aiden is so genuine and I really enjoyed each interaction they had. I wish we were able to read his speech for Aiden at the wedding because I already know that shit would’ve been amazing.
“Tell me what you have in mind first.” “Well, before this chat, I brought the Galatic Command Base LEGO set and planned on inviting her over to build it.” Both of their jaws dropped. “Is that a bad idea?” “You brought a seven-hundred-dollar LEGO set for a first date?”
🩵Catalina🩵
Catalina’s struggle with letting people in is completely understandable, just because you have a family that is extremely sociable doesn’t mean that you’re going to be the same. Her relationship with her mother slowly being built back up was so satisfying. I wasn’t sure if it would have been dealt with much since it’s only a short book but I was happily mistaken.
Each time she mentioned leaving to Luke just made me scream at my kindle. LIKE DON’T LEAVE PLEASE. Her hesitance made complete sense and seeing her open up more and more just made me smile so much. Also, her nickname for Luke in the beginning was so funny I genuinely thought it was a typo the first time around.
“She gasps dramatically. “Did you just scowl?” I glare. “Whoa. Warn a girl next time” she mocks me by checking her pulse”
Their relationship was just so cute. I couldn’t have asked for anything more, Lauren Asher knows how to write a brilliant love story. I’m pretty certain that she’s my favourite romance author out there right now.
“She finally cracks, and a soft laugh pours from her lips, feeding me in a way food never can. Catalina isn’t the type for loud belly laughs that leave someone’s stomach aching, but I’ve never heard a better sound than the one she makes because of me.”
~Overall~
I can’t give this book anything less than a 5 star. It was exactly what I needed to read at the moment because of how sweet and heartfelt it was. It’s definitely made me want to read more festive books over the holidays that’s for sure.
~Quote Dump~
“Yes?” I lean in toward her, my breath catching in my throat as I wait for what she might say. “Repugnant,” she says with a small scrunch of her nose, as if the very idea of breathing the same air as me leaves a bad taste in her mouth”
“Is this your casual way of telling me you’re broke?” “I prefer the term fiscally conservative” my comment earns the best kind of laugh. My eyes widen. “Did you just…” “No” “Woah. I didn’t think your internal software was capable of such a sound. Are you malfunctioning? Is there a 1-800 number I can call to get your help?”
“Tonight, I didn’t only make Catalina Martinez laugh, but smile twice. And I’ll be damned because I’m already looking forward to when I can do it again.”
“Luke doesn’t bother shielding his grin like I do. “ Don’t get mad at her for finding me funny.” “I’m laughing at you. Not with you.” Luke shrugs. “So long as you’re laughing, that’s all that matters.”
~Summary~
AHHHHH THIS WAS SO FUCKING CUTE.
This is my first time reading a holiday type of romance and it didn’t disappoint at all. This book was hilarious, joyful, cute, sweet, heartwarming. I COULD GO ON. I genuinely have zero complaints for this book, I love everything about it. Luke is amazing and Catalina is just as good. I’ll be gushing about this book whenever the Christmas season rolls around till the end of time from this day forth. 😤
“Are all your conversations this riveting?” “Possibly.” “Three whole syllables?” I check my pulse. “Warn a guy next time.”
💛Luke💛
LUKE DARLING YOU ADORABLE SOUL.
He’s honestly everything you’d want and more from a guy. He’s funny, charming, flirty and caring. And just to make it even better, he LOVES BUILDING LEGOS WITH WHO HE LOVES…he’s perfect.
He was so dedicated to try and get Catalina to spend more time with him whilst also knowing and understanding that he has to be patient for her and he did just that.
His relationship with Aiden is so genuine and I really enjoyed each interaction they had. I wish we were able to read his speech for Aiden at the wedding because I already know that shit would’ve been amazing.
“Tell me what you have in mind first.” “Well, before this chat, I brought the Galatic Command Base LEGO set and planned on inviting her over to build it.” Both of their jaws dropped. “Is that a bad idea?” “You brought a seven-hundred-dollar LEGO set for a first date?”
🩵Catalina🩵
Catalina’s struggle with letting people in is completely understandable, just because you have a family that is extremely sociable doesn’t mean that you’re going to be the same. Her relationship with her mother slowly being built back up was so satisfying. I wasn’t sure if it would have been dealt with much since it’s only a short book but I was happily mistaken.
Each time she mentioned leaving to Luke just made me scream at my kindle. LIKE DON’T LEAVE PLEASE. Her hesitance made complete sense and seeing her open up more and more just made me smile so much. Also, her nickname for Luke in the beginning was so funny I genuinely thought it was a typo the first time around.
“She gasps dramatically. “Did you just scowl?” I glare. “Whoa. Warn a girl next time” she mocks me by checking her pulse”
Their relationship was just so cute. I couldn’t have asked for anything more, Lauren Asher knows how to write a brilliant love story. I’m pretty certain that she’s my favourite romance author out there right now.
“She finally cracks, and a soft laugh pours from her lips, feeding me in a way food never can. Catalina isn’t the type for loud belly laughs that leave someone’s stomach aching, but I’ve never heard a better sound than the one she makes because of me.”
~Overall~
I can’t give this book anything less than a 5 star. It was exactly what I needed to read at the moment because of how sweet and heartfelt it was. It’s definitely made me want to read more festive books over the holidays that’s for sure.
~Quote Dump~
“Yes?” I lean in toward her, my breath catching in my throat as I wait for what she might say. “Repugnant,” she says with a small scrunch of her nose, as if the very idea of breathing the same air as me leaves a bad taste in her mouth”
“Is this your casual way of telling me you’re broke?” “I prefer the term fiscally conservative” my comment earns the best kind of laugh. My eyes widen. “Did you just…” “No” “Woah. I didn’t think your internal software was capable of such a sound. Are you malfunctioning? Is there a 1-800 number I can call to get your help?”
“Tonight, I didn’t only make Catalina Martinez laugh, but smile twice. And I’ll be damned because I’m already looking forward to when I can do it again.”
“Luke doesn’t bother shielding his grin like I do. “ Don’t get mad at her for finding me funny.” “I’m laughing at you. Not with you.” Luke shrugs. “So long as you’re laughing, that’s all that matters.”
December 7, 2024
Hey Siri play all the holly, jolly Christmas tunes on my phone while i kick back and read this beginning to end. Cause I’m just that festive with it 🤌🎄.
“Yes so damn rude. Most people in town call Catalina an ice queen, everyone has a melting point. I just haven’t found hers yet”.
Ah, a rude girl with a lowkey sweetheart side , will in fact —always have me invested.
“Making the most of two weeks with you seems better than spending a lifetime wondering what could’ve been.”
Even more so, its just that wholesomely cozy holiday romance novella, that once you hit the end page - you will be wanting yourself your own Christmas darling , thinking about imaginary scenarios where you are sipping on some eggnog or hot coco, or anything warm with them , ahaaaaaaaaaa 🤧😂
Loved it. Tis a holly jolly romantic read ❤️.
“Yes so damn rude. Most people in town call Catalina an ice queen, everyone has a melting point. I just haven’t found hers yet”.
Ah, a rude girl with a lowkey sweetheart side , will in fact —always have me invested.
“Making the most of two weeks with you seems better than spending a lifetime wondering what could’ve been.”
Even more so, its just that wholesomely cozy holiday romance novella, that once you hit the end page - you will be wanting yourself your own Christmas darling , thinking about imaginary scenarios where you are sipping on some eggnog or hot coco, or anything warm with them , ahaaaaaaaaaa 🤧😂
Loved it. Tis a holly jolly romantic read ❤️.
November 28, 2024
Such a fun and cute read I loved it
December 3, 2024
3.5 stars
I’m not a fan of holidays romances or novellas, but I still ended up enjoying this despite being both. This was such a cute easy read. I liked that it was set around the holidays without being “too festive” if you get what I mean. I also, liked that for such a short book it packed a lot of emotions and banter between the characters. I liked their connection, they were just cute. Also, to be honest, this book got me from just the dedication.
I’m not a fan of holidays romances or novellas, but I still ended up enjoying this despite being both. This was such a cute easy read. I liked that it was set around the holidays without being “too festive” if you get what I mean. I also, liked that for such a short book it packed a lot of emotions and banter between the characters. I liked their connection, they were just cute. Also, to be honest, this book got me from just the dedication.
December 16, 2024
Tooo fuckin cute! 😭 I had such a good time with this story. The audiobook narration was fantastic.
Catalina was so relatable to me as a heroine. Luke was the dreamboat of all dreamboats. 🥹
Gave me all the warm feelings I needed. 🥰
Catalina was so relatable to me as a heroine. Luke was the dreamboat of all dreamboats. 🥹
Gave me all the warm feelings I needed. 🥰
December 15, 2024
– 3.25 stars ★
Was cute but the side characters annoyed me sm🥲
Was cute but the side characters annoyed me sm🥲
December 14, 2024
this was perfection and im not even usually a Christmas romance girlie but not a single moment was any type of cringe and the epilogue had me squealing!!
December 11, 2024
are you kidding this was the absolute cutest!
November 27, 2024
3.5 ⭐️ this was so so so cute!!!
December 16, 2024
‧₊˚🎄✩
”Making the most of two weeks with you seems better than spending a lifetime wondering what could’ve been.”
°❆⛄⋆.ೃ࿔
-ˏˋ3.75 ☆ˊˎ-
Dear Santa, if you’re reading this, can I have Dr. Darling wrapped up under my tree? Please and thank you.
Listen! This was so sweet and cute and wholesome and everything in between!! AAAAAAAAAH OMG my tummy was swimming in butterflies 🦋🥰 I was grinning the entire time and wishing I wasn’t single this festive season. This short book captures the vibe of the typical cheesy and cutesy hallmark movies perfectly!
tropes
🎄 Small town
❄️ Doctor x Nurse
🎄 Cinnamon roll MMC x Closed off FMC
❄️ Maid of honor x Best man
🎄 Best friend’s ex
This book takes place in Lake Wisteria, the town to Lauren’s Lakefront Billionaire series, but let me tell you this was so different from all her usual billionaire romances while still having the amazing banter and writing. This is Asher’s smallest book but she still managed to have strong, developed leads and an entertaining plot. And of course it wouldn’t be a Lauren’s book if she didn’t bring awareness to something, and in this book she points out the hardest parts of working in healthcare which I appreciated so much. And she does so, subtly and without taking away from the goal of the story.
Also, I thought the whole ex-boyfriend thing would play a bigger part in it, but I actually really liked the direction this took. Although, there were times when her sister and ex-boyfriend teaming up to help Luke win Catalina felt a little too much. But it didn’t take from my enjoyment.
Most people in town call Catalina an ice queen, but everyone has a melting point. I just haven’t found hers yet.
Catalina Martinez is a traveling NICU nurse who is back in town for her sister’s wedding with her ex-boyfriend. She is viewed as the “not-so-nice Martinez sister” because she’s quiet, shy and not out going when it comes to interacting with people, being misinterpreted as coming off as rude and not nice.
How I love her!! It was so easy to connect whit her and I could see so much of myself in her. It made me feel understood and hopeful in a way. She just wanted to find someone who truly loved her for her. “Ice queen” and all. Her interactions with Luke were so heartwarming, and it was so cute seeing how she melted with each interaction.
Some people really are undeniably good, and in a world like ours, we could use more of them.
Luke Darling is a sunshine cinnamon roll in its purest form! He is a doctor and the best man of the groom and just so sweet, understanding and plain good! The kind of person that sees you struggling and tries to make it comfortable for you without being overwhelming. That’s what he was to Catalina!
He knew what he wanted from the beginning and didn’t shy away from it, making his feelings obvious from the start. The way he just wanted to make her laugh eeeeeeeek!!! He was a perfect gentleman.
”There is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve.”
Their interactions were amazing, funny and just so real. Sometimes we read so many books with the most outrageous romance story and it doesn’t feel achievable, you know? But this felt so real, hopeful and genuine. Like it can truly happen. To anyone. At any time.
Overall such a cute and quick novella perfect for this holiday season. My only complaint is that we didn’t get more time with this characters but let me assure you if you are feeling a little cold this winter this book promises to warm you up.
⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅*̩̩͙‧͙ ‧͙*̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅*̩̩͙‧͙ ‧͙*̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆
This was the cutest novella ever!
rtcs
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
·:*¨༺ Pre-read ༻¨*:·
I never read holiday themed books but this sounds so cute! And it’s Lauren Asher duh, of course I’ll read it!
-ˏˋ3.75 ☆ˊˎ-
Dear Santa, if you’re reading this, can I have Dr. Darling wrapped up under my tree? Please and thank you.
Listen! This was so sweet and cute and wholesome and everything in between!! AAAAAAAAAH OMG my tummy was swimming in butterflies 🦋🥰 I was grinning the entire time and wishing I wasn’t single this festive season. This short book captures the vibe of the typical cheesy and cutesy hallmark movies perfectly!
tropes
🎄 Small town
❄️ Doctor x Nurse
🎄 Cinnamon roll MMC x Closed off FMC
❄️ Maid of honor x Best man
🎄 Best friend’s ex
This book takes place in Lake Wisteria, the town to Lauren’s Lakefront Billionaire series, but let me tell you this was so different from all her usual billionaire romances while still having the amazing banter and writing. This is Asher’s smallest book but she still managed to have strong, developed leads and an entertaining plot. And of course it wouldn’t be a Lauren’s book if she didn’t bring awareness to something, and in this book she points out the hardest parts of working in healthcare which I appreciated so much. And she does so, subtly and without taking away from the goal of the story.
Also, I thought the whole ex-boyfriend thing would play a bigger part in it, but I actually really liked the direction this took. Although, there were times when her sister and ex-boyfriend teaming up to help Luke win Catalina felt a little too much. But it didn’t take from my enjoyment.
Most people in town call Catalina an ice queen, but everyone has a melting point. I just haven’t found hers yet.
Catalina Martinez is a traveling NICU nurse who is back in town for her sister’s wedding with her ex-boyfriend. She is viewed as the “not-so-nice Martinez sister” because she’s quiet, shy and not out going when it comes to interacting with people, being misinterpreted as coming off as rude and not nice.
How I love her!! It was so easy to connect whit her and I could see so much of myself in her. It made me feel understood and hopeful in a way. She just wanted to find someone who truly loved her for her. “Ice queen” and all. Her interactions with Luke were so heartwarming, and it was so cute seeing how she melted with each interaction.
Some people really are undeniably good, and in a world like ours, we could use more of them.
Luke Darling is a sunshine cinnamon roll in its purest form! He is a doctor and the best man of the groom and just so sweet, understanding and plain good! The kind of person that sees you struggling and tries to make it comfortable for you without being overwhelming. That’s what he was to Catalina!
He knew what he wanted from the beginning and didn’t shy away from it, making his feelings obvious from the start. The way he just wanted to make her laugh eeeeeeeek!!! He was a perfect gentleman.
”There is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve.”
Their interactions were amazing, funny and just so real. Sometimes we read so many books with the most outrageous romance story and it doesn’t feel achievable, you know? But this felt so real, hopeful and genuine. Like it can truly happen. To anyone. At any time.
Overall such a cute and quick novella perfect for this holiday season. My only complaint is that we didn’t get more time with this characters but let me assure you if you are feeling a little cold this winter this book promises to warm you up.
⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅*̩̩͙‧͙ ‧͙*̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆꙳•̩̩͙❅*̩̩͙‧͙ ‧͙*̩̩͙❆ ͙͛ ˚₊⋆
This was the cutest novella ever!
-ˋˏ✄┈┈┈┈┈┈┈┈
·:*¨༺ Pre-read ༻¨*:·
I never read holiday themed books but this sounds so cute! And it’s Lauren Asher duh, of course I’ll read it!
December 13, 2024
౨ৎ ⋮ "There is always room for love in our lives, so long as we are open to accepting the kind we think we deserve."
luke darling is my darling now. this book was really cute and perfect novella for the holiday season 🤭
December 8, 2024
When he is obsessed with her, her laugh and her smile 🥹
"I swear I’m becoming obsessed with the idea of getting this girl to smile, even if it never lasts longer than a few seconds."
“Truth is, I just want to spend more time with you.”
“Everything about you interests me.”
"“Wait. You can be funny?” she asks it with a straight face. I glare before she breaks out into laughter. Damn. I’ve never been so affected by the sound of someone else’s happiness before, nor have I craved finding other ways to elicit the same response again."
“"Thank you for what?” “For being here. With me.” She looks up at me with a dazzling smile that rivals all the twinkling lights covering the house in front of us, and I’m stunned by the sheer intensity of it. Stunned by her."
Buddy Read with my love @Bella 😁 First holiday BR ever!
"I swear I’m becoming obsessed with the idea of getting this girl to smile, even if it never lasts longer than a few seconds."
“Truth is, I just want to spend more time with you.”
“Everything about you interests me.”
"“Wait. You can be funny?” she asks it with a straight face. I glare before she breaks out into laughter. Damn. I’ve never been so affected by the sound of someone else’s happiness before, nor have I craved finding other ways to elicit the same response again."
“"Thank you for what?” “For being here. With me.” She looks up at me with a dazzling smile that rivals all the twinkling lights covering the house in front of us, and I’m stunned by the sheer intensity of it. Stunned by her."
Buddy Read with my love @Bella 😁 First holiday BR ever!
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