Quick Take
December is officially my month of twinkling lights, warm blankets, and all the Christmas romances I can squeeze in and this novella slid right into that cozy lineup. Ho Ho Ho-usewife by Jahquel J is quick, fun, and full of that delicious holiday chaos we secretly love. Fake dating? Fake engagement? A little family drama sprinkled like powdered sugar? Yes ma’am, sign me up.

Steam Level
Warm cocoa vibes. Flirty, festive, and just enough spice to keep the pages turning.

What I Loved
Candance and Nick… listen, they grew on me like the Christmas tree you forget to water but somehow it still thrives. Their dynamic starts off chaotic in the best way, and watching them settle into that “wait… this is starting to feel real” territory gave me all the cozy butterflies.

The setup is peak holiday novella material:

• Nick’s mom is on his back about settling down
• Nick panics and blurts out that he’s engaged
• Candance needs money
• Her best friend (who also works for Nick) is done carrying the rent
• Perfect solution: “Girl, go be his fake fiancée.”

And just like that, we’re off to the races.

Nick’s family? Whew. A handful. His mother tested every last nerve I have left from 2025 but that’s what makes the story feel real. Every holiday season has at least one relative acting up like it’s their full-time job.

Plot Overview
Nick lies to get his mom off his back, Candance agrees to play fiancée for the cash, and the two of them stumble through the mess they’ve created -holiday parties, family expectations, and all. But somewhere between all the pretending and the pressure, a real connection sneaks in. The tension simmers, the emotions settle, and the ending? Wrapped up with a little bow and full of warmth.

Final Thoughts
This is exactly the kind of novella that gets you into the holiday spirit fast, festive, and full of heart. Perfect for anyone who wants a cute, drama-sprinkled Christmas read that leaves you feeling full and fuzzy inside.

Happy Reading!