I didn’t think I could like a couple more than Seb + Maddie in Season’s Schemings by Katie Bailey, but then along came Aaron and Olivia, and that Enemies-to-lovers banter won out!

Olivia’s been a flight attendant stationed in London Heathrow for the past few years. She’s ready for more family time, so she takes the opportunity to move closer to her brother Jake by accepting a job out of Atlanta. Olivia's new life chapter in Atlanta comes with unexpected turbulence: a living arrangement nightmare and facing her infuriating nemesis, Aaron—the cocky hockey captain and Jake's best friend.

Aaron has worked hard to become Team Captain of the Cyclones. Even though he has a ladies-man reputation, Aaron swore off dating months ago to put all of his time and focus into the team’s success. Aaron is dealing with a relentless stalker threatening to tarnish his reputation, career, and Team Captain position. After taking Olivia home from a team party he sees the living situation she’s in and makes Olivia a proposal that will benefit her current living situation and hopefully take care of his stocker situation. Olivia reluctantly agrees and moves into his home temporarily during the Holidays.

Unfortunately, Olivia learned early in life to guard her heart so the people around her couldn’t let her down. This distrust began with a heartbreaking Christmas when she was young and she’s been avoiding anything that has to do with the holiday (or opening her heart) ever since.

“When I look at myself, I see that in contrast, I’ve been living in fear of investing in important relationships in case those people don’t invest in me, too, and caring about someone turns into something painful.”

Aaron grew up in a loving home with a strong family foundation. This man knows how to see and care for the people in his life! After Olivia opens up about her childhood, Aaron decides to try and replace her bad holiday memories with new “good” memories. These thoughtful “gestures” carefully pull down Olivia’s walls and allow her to see for the first time that she’s worth loving.

“For the first time in my adult life, I’m going to take a leaf out of Aaron’s book and fight or what - who - I love.”

One thing I love most about Katie Bailey’s writing is that she brings the heat into her relationships so well, while still keeping the story closed-door. It’s the perfect level of low spice to show relationships in a healthy intimate way without putting too many details on the page that you wouldn’t want your high school girls to be able to read!

There’s a water scene with one of the best kissing scenes EVER!!

From steamy arguments to quiet moments of unexpected connection, Katie Bailey once again proves that enemies can make the best lovers—especially when mutual walls come crashing down.

Publish Date: November 22, 2024

Romance content: Just [AMAZING] kissing!! Closed-door!

Low spice, highly entertaining! I enjoyed this story and will grab the first book and look forward to more from Bailey. It's perfect for the holiday-loving reader.

I absolutely love Katie Bailey’s books!!! They have the chemistry and banter but without the spice and she is just hilarious!!! This one was no exception.

I read Seasons Schemings last Christmas and loved it and was so excited for the 2nd book in this series! It delivered everything I was hoping for! Christmas cozy vibes, hockey romance, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, brother’s best friend??? give it to me!!!

This was just so cute and perfect for the holiday season!! I can’t wait for Katie’s next book! 🤭