“The Holiday Mixtape” is the second book from new author Liberty Stowe and I couldn’t wait to read her magical Christmas romance! Her book has everything, from a quaint, small town in need of holiday cheer, to a runaway marketing executive who wants to experience the holiday in a big way, and to a handsome, sexy fireman who caught her eye from the moment they met. Erika is a strong and independent woman with a quick mind, creative ideas and a wish to give Blitzen, KY, the best Christmas possible. Along the way, Kourt, the hunky high school basketball coach and volunteer fireman, was nominated to drive Erika around to meet the business owners to discuss her plans for the holiday extravaganza. Just being in close quarters in his truck with Erika drove him crazy and he soon fell under her spell! Her love of all things Christmas made him wish he could be just like her so he would be happy once again! Erika fell in love with the Hallmark movie feeling of Blitzen! Working together to bring joy to everyone during the festive holiday season made her teary-eyed and happy at the same time. Falling in love with Kourt was a Christmas wish she never expected! Kourt swept into her life like a full court three-pointer and being with him gave her a glimpse of how wonderful her life could be! What a fabulous and joyful way to spend the holidays!

Because we all need a little Christmas... and this book in our lives! Liberty Stowe has done it again! I read her debut small town romance, Steady Now, and couldn't put it down. There was something real and deep in Vogel Springs, as opposed to the typical fluff small town romance. She had me at her character development and that tractor scene!!!

I wasn't sure what to expect with her Holiday Rom Com, but I think I'm leaning toward Liberty Stowe topping my Small Town Romance author list—that, and she may have cornered the category for Christmas as well. Again, heartfelt, unexpected, and spice that does not disappoint!!!

3 solid chili peppers from my end.

I couldn't put my finger on it during her debut novel, but after The Holiday Mixtape, I know what it is... Liberty Stowe has an uncanny way of making outlandish, over the top or even underrated characters realistic. She brings these interesting people down to earth and puts them on a page as someone you identify with. Almost every character shines in there own specific way. They earn their role in the story, and that's an art form and challenge for any author.

The Holiday Mixtape brings the surprise element of the mixtape (very unique/LOVED how it all came together), all the Christmas feels, and a genuine love story that was also unexpected. I found myself truly invested in Erika and Kourt. She brings Hallmark, but makes it real. A Blitzen Christmas is one I think we all strive for. This one is another purchase for the shelf! Can't wait to read it again this December!

I LOVED THE AUNTIE MAME ASPECT! Aunt Josephine and Archer were favorites. Can't wait for Helen and Archer's story next!!!

Title: The Holiday Mixtape
Author: Liberty Stowe

What to expect:
*Grumpy / Sunshine
*Small town
*Slow burn

Pros:
A very cute Christmas themed storyline featuring a mixed cassette tape! I always enjoy holiday stories and this book combined my love of found family, small town love, and Christmas!!

Cons:
Kourt has a sad backstory that causes his grumpiness, this isn’t usually a trope I enjoy at all, but luckily he didn’t let his past keep him from falling for the FMC.

Safety:
No real OW/OM drama, some jealously on both parts. No third act breakup.

Thank you to NetGalley and RupertBossier for the opportunity to read and review this title!

Format: NetGalley ebook
Genre: Contemporary fiction, romance
Overall score:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice level:🌶️🌶️
Characters: Erika (FMC) & Kourt (MMC)

I have to say that I loved this book! A holiday romance tied with a mixtape? What’s not to love! It’s a slow, slow burn but once that fire catches, it burns like a wild fire! It’s a fun story full of Christmas magic & all the characters are so relatable!

I cannot wait for Archer & Helen’s story!

Huge thank you to NetGalley & RupertBossier for the opportunity to read & review this title!

If you’re a Christmas fan and don’t unwrap this book, Santa might just swap your cookies for coal and nobody wants that kind of holiday drama! So tear it open, get cozy, and sleigh this read! 🎅🔥📚

Liberty Stowe’s The Holiday Mixtape is a delightful, spicy new holiday rom-com that perfectly blends Grumpy x Sunshine vibes with plenty of sugar, spice, and everything nice.... though not everyone’s playing nice this Christmas! Following a misfit ad exec and a handsome small-town basketball coach, the story is stitched together by a vintage cassette tape that’s as nostalgic as it is magical.

Erika with a K’s quirky charm and unwavering determination to revive Blitzen, Kentucky’s Christmas spirit, (once the town let her find her footing), had me thoroughly captivated. Kourt’s gruff exterior gradually softened in the holiday glow, bringing just the right measure of warmth. Their banter was as sharp as a candy cane yet twice as sweet, and the thoughtful musical and movie nods throughout added a perfect festive charm to the story.

The spice in this book? Let’s just say it’s warm (ok, hot), unexpected, and guaranteed to leave you feeling extra festive (and maybe a little bit hot under the mistletoe)!

If you love quirky small-town charm with a dash of holiday magic and a pinch of sass, this one’s definitely worth a read. Four stars for a story that plays all the right notes!

Thank you to RupertBossier and NetGalley for giving me a chance to get into the Christmas spirit early and reading this ARC!

This was a fun Christmas romance. It was the perfect plot for a Hallmark movie. With a grumpy x sunshine romance, forced proximity, banter, sarcasm and tons of small town Christmas cheer. It is a must read for the Christmas season!

Liberty Stowe is 2 for 2! This sophomore outing, a Christmas book, has everything. Small town, new girl, save the fire department, Christmas festival, suspense and intrigue. Additionally, there’s some heavier topics, especially around learning to love after grief. Erika and Kourt may be maddening together at times, but the journey is worth it. I believe this is being set up at a series, so there are some unresolved pieces to look forward too. Plus, I love this is set in my home state of Kentucky (thanks for the Kentucky love!) This is pretty open-door, so if that’s not your cup of eggnog, you may want to sit this out. Otherwise, definitely check this out.

Thank you, RupertBossier, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

Thank you Liberty Stowe, RupertBossier and NetGalley for a copy of *The Holiday Mixtape* in exchange for my honest review❤️🎄❄️

Publication date: October 3, 2025🗓

❤️ Christmas romance
🎄 charming small town
❄️ grumpy x sunshine
❤️ witty banter
🎄 Hallmark vibes (with spice)
❄️ no third act breakup

TW: death of spouse

The Holiday Mixtape is a delightful mix of witty banter, silly puns, anticipation, and some well written spice! The side characters truly shine, especially the best friends. They are both hilarious and their story is coming next! I also really enjoyed the festive vibe. The small-town Christmas market and festival sound like the perfect place to experience some holiday magic✨️

While the book had so many wonderful moments, the pacing felt a little uneven. Some pieces could have used a bit more depth and felt slightly rushed, while other sections were drawn out in detail.

Overall, this is a super cute, cozy holiday read centered around a mixtape and a great pick for Christmas time❤️🎄❄️

A cozy winter holiday story with all the Christmas vibes and delicious spice.
This is what you call a Hallmark movie but in a book and with open-door romance.

If you want to get into the Christmas mood in a smalltown with a grumpy/sunshine troupe and lot's of Christmas music, this might be for you ;)

This book is truly amazing! It really starts to get you into the Christmas spirit of decorating and all the Christmas things! I really enjoyed the characters and how they came together and gave you a really good story! I cannot wait to read more books!

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe is a charming, spicy holiday rom-com that perfectly captures the cozy magic of a small-town Christmas with a Grumpy x Sunshine dynamic.
Stowe excels at bringing quirky, relatable characters to life, making their growth and connection feel authentic amid the festive backdrop. The detailed small-town setting, nostalgic musical nods, and heartfelt themes create a story that is both a joyful holiday escape and a profound tale of self-discovery and community spirit.

Cute holiday romance with grumpy x sunshine. This is threaded together with songs from a mix tape and it was just such a cute story. I flew through this and enjoyed all the cosy feelings.

Two strangers. One mission: to raise enough money for a firetruck through the Old Fashioned Blitzen Christmas Festival—a holiday challenge that keeps them side by side all season long.

I was already hooked to this book by the great playlist the author provided in the beginning of the book. I am such a sucker for a cozy holiday romance and this book was just that. It genuinely felt like I was reading a Hallmark movie but with spice.

Tropes:
-Holiday Rom Com
-Grumpy x Sunshine
-Small Town
-Forced Proximity
-He Falls First

I love reading books from author's that I have not previously read because it gives me achance to branch out of my "comfort zone". This is my first book from Liberty Stowe but it will not be my last.

Right away, the cover drew me in as I am the type of person who is immediately attracted to a book's cover.

Seeing as how I have not read the author's previous book, I did not know what to expect with The Holiday Mixtape.

I enjoyed this book SO MUCH!!!. For some reason, I am truly attracted to grumpy characters, and Kourt did not disappoint. I also appreciate when author has side characters that make your remember them.

This is definitely a must read if you're looking for a festive, holiday read with Hallmark feels, Christmas music, and Grumpy x Sunshine troupe.

this had it all and i liked it. my first read from this author so i will read more of their books. read it today and get other books if you can.

This book is the perfect read for a little holiday boost. If youre looking for a slow burn/grumpy sunshine(ish) read this is the perfect one! Who doesn’t love a read where the woman comes in and saves the town with a christmas miracle. I definitely recommend this one!

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe wraps festive charm, quirky small‑town romance, and just enough silliness into a delightfully warm read. Erika, a hopeful ad exec escaping the grind of Chicago, stumbles upon a mysterious cassette tape in a flea market, and that tape leads her straight to Kourt, the local basketball coach and reluctant hero of Blitzen, Kentucky. The chemistry between them crackles with banter, frustration, and unexpected tenderness. Stowe infuses the story with holiday spirit, charming town traditions, and the kind of cozy tension that makes you root for both characters as they unravel past hurts and fight for what’s next. While a few plot conveniences and tropes sneak in, they hardly dim the overall glow. This is an easy, feel‑good romance for anyone craving Christmas, possibility, and the kind of love that plays like your favorite song.

Amazing book loved the characters and plot. I couldn't stop reading I stayed up all night. I loved the book so much thank you for the arc.

This book was the spicy hallmark read that I needed for the holidays! I thought this book was such a cute concept. I absolutely love the town of Blitzen and I wish I could go visit! Erika is such a bright Christmas joy. I wish that I was more like her! I thought the opposites attract and the tension and even more so the sexual attention was just perfect and it really was a great read for me! If you want hallmark with some unexpected spice for the holidays. You should absolutely pick this up!!

I just finished this book, and oh my gosh, I know it’s only the start of October, but this book makes me want to forget my fall TBR and start reading holiday books. I loved the relationship and dynamic between Erika with a K and Kourt with a K. Especially their not-so-meet-cute at the beginning, which had me dying of laughter. If you are looking for a book that has all the hallmark vibes but with spice, then add this to your TBR. It had friends-to-lovers (even tho they loved to poke one another), tension, banter, and no OWD. Even the side characters were lovable, and all the different townsfolk just made me feel like I was living in this world too. I loved how the book ended, and when I found out we are getting another book set in this world next October. I jumped up for joy because it was that good! Go pick up The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe.

This was such a cozy Christmas read! Set against the charming backdrop of small-town Kentucky, the story delivered everything I love about holiday romances - warm traditions, festive charm, and just the right touch of drama. The enemies-to-lovers tension made it even more fun, with plenty of banter and sparks flying between the main characters.

Erika with a K has always struggled to find her place - constantly tripping over obstacles and feeling like no one truly believes in her. She is fresh off a failed pitch at her ad agency job in Chicago when her great aunt leaves her keys to her house in Blitzen Kentucky. Needing the break and to clear her head she decides to spend the holidays in Kentucky. Driving her aunt's old VW bug with only a tape player inside, she stumbles upon a holiday mixtape that feels like fate, guiding her when she needs it most. Each song seems to arrive at just the right moment, nudging her forward, almost as if fate itself is guiding her toward something bigger. Erika explores her aunts house and discovers her aunt's massive stash of Christmas decorations. With determination in her heart, Erika decides she's going to bring back Christmas for the whole town.

Kourt with a K has lived in this little town his whole life. A former college basketball player turned teacher, he's a widower just moving through the motions of everyday life. Enter Erika - who finds herself in way over her head trying to save Christmas. Kourt gets roped into helping her, and that's where the real magic begins.

I loved watching them go from rivals to partners as they worked together to save Christmas for the community. Its the perfect mix of heart, humor, and holiday magic, leaving me with all the feel-good vibes.

#TheHolidayMixtape #NetGalley

Cute vibes .. love the characters and vibes

Cozy Christmas vibes

Really liked archer and other characters

The Holiday Mixtape is a fun Christmas romance! Perfect for lovers of grumpy x sunshine, forced proximity, small town Hallmark vibes but with lots of delicious spice. The music of the mixtape weaved through the song was the perfect touch. A must read for the Christmas season!

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe is a heartwarming and festive small-town romance that instantly put me in the holiday spirit. Erika’s journey from city chaos to Blitzen, Kentucky, is full of charm, humor, and hope. Kourt’s grumpy, grounded personality perfectly contrasts with Erika’s sunshine energy, making their dynamic irresistible. Their banter is witty and full of chemistry, building a slow-burn romance that feels genuine. The vintage mixtape adds a magical, nostalgic touch that ties the story together beautifully. Stowe captures the essence of community and warmth that makes holiday romances so special. The setting of Blitzen is vibrant and cozy, filled with laughter, love, and festive spirit. I loved how the fire department fundraiser added depth and purpose to the story. Both characters grow emotionally, learning to balance love, ambition, and belonging. This book is the perfect read for anyone craving a cozy, romantic escape filled with heart and holiday magic.
- Vanesa Gjolaj, Author Of “The Enchanted Manuscript”

Liberty Stowe’s The Holiday Mixtape is a festive, flirty, and delightfully spicy holiday romance that delivers everything you could want from a seasonal read—and then some. Equal parts heat and heart, this story brings together two people who couldn’t be more different, yet can’t seem to resist the magnetic pull between them. It’s the perfect blend of cozy holiday vibes, sizzling chemistry, and emotional depth that makes it impossible to put down.

From the start, Stowe draws readers in with her vivid storytelling and natural ability to build connection between her leads. The relationship that unfolds is equal parts passionate and heartfelt, with tension that crackles on every page. As their story develops, it’s not just about the spice—though there’s plenty of that—it’s also about vulnerability, trust, and the magic of finding love when you least expect it.

One of the strongest aspects of The Holiday Mixtape is how much story Stowe manages to pack into the pages. There’s substance beneath the steam, with character backstories, emotional growth, and genuine holiday charm woven throughout. Readers are given time to really know these characters—their quirks, their desires, and their fears—and that makes their connection feel not only believable but deeply satisfying.

The holiday setting adds an extra layer of warmth to the book, contrasting perfectly with the sizzling romantic tension. Stowe captures the spirit of the season—music, lights, laughter, and a touch of chaos—and uses it to amplify both the joy and intensity of her story. It’s the kind of romance that makes you smile one moment, blush the next, and sigh happily at the end.

The Holiday Mixtape is a fun, sexy, and surprisingly heartfelt story about opposites attracting, the courage to take chances, and the way love can sneak up on you when you least expect it. Liberty Stowe has created the perfect holiday escape—a spicy, feel-good romance that will leave readers wanting to hit replay on this love story again and again.

Do you believe in magic? Christmas magic, that is. There just might be a bit of it at play when Erika lands in her great-aunt's small Kentucky town for the month of December. Or, at least enough of it to get the holiday romance ball rolling while Erika and her reluctant chauffeur, Kourt work around the clock to restore the town's lost Christmas spirit while raising enough money to buy a much-needed fire truck...and maybe find love in the process.

This book has me ready to haul out the Christmas decorations and stream holiday tunes on a constant loop. The characters sucked me into their lives from the start and came with enough layers to keep me intrigued. I loved the banter between Kourt and Erika as well as the spark of attraction that continued to grow, even when one of them tried their darndest to ignore it. There's emotional baggage at play with necessary healing (Kourt) and growth (Erika) that needed to be accomplished before the relationship could progress. The process each of them went through felt realistic and authentic to the characters. I was rooting them on the entire way.

The best friend relationships were pure gold, offering up terrific dialogue, unquestioned support, but also necessary truths for the main couple...plus a few unexpected surprises. Community members rounded out a richly textured supporting cast who helped add conflict, humor, and emotional depth to the story. The breakfast scene with police and fire officials was hilarious. There are no secrets in small towns and no shortage of advice either.

The author's descriptions of Blitzen and the surrounding areas had me wanting to visit during the holidays too. She brought it all to life in such a way that I felt like I was right there with the characters, exploring caves, delighting in nighttime snowfalls, navigating icy mountain roads, and strolling along town sidewalks, humming Christmas songs while warming my cold hands and nose with steaming hot cocoa. She brought the magic of Christmas in Blitzen to life and I was there for it, every step of the way.

If you enjoy small-town stories with snappy banter, strong community, slow-burn romance, emotional depth, humor, and happy endings, all wrapped up in a holiday bow, check out The Holiday Mixtape. It has my enthusiastic recommendation.

4.5 stars

ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
Fair and unbiased opinon

The Holiday Mixtape is a charming, heartfelt, and delightfully festive romance that captures the warmth and whimsy of a small-town Christmas while offering genuine emotional depth. Liberty Stowe delivers a story that blends cozy holiday charm with just the right touch of spice and sincerity.
After a failed pitch at her Chicago ad agency, Erika escapes to her late great-aunt’s home in Blitzen, Kentucky, where she finds herself swept up in the town’s efforts to save their fire department through an old-fashioned Christmas festival.
Tasked with helping her is Kourt, a grumpy basketball coach and volunteer firefighter still healing from past loss.
Their reluctant partnership soon turns into something far more meaningful as they rediscover hope, joy, and love amid the magic of the season.
Stowe excels at creating relatable, well-rounded characters and a vivid, welcoming community that feels alive on the page. The nostalgic mixtape motif adds a unique and memorable touch, tying music, memory, and emotion together beautifully.
The chemistry between Erika and Kourt builds naturally, supported by witty banter, emotional honesty, and the perfect dash of heat.
While some pacing moments feel slightly uneven, the novel’s heart, humour, and holiday spirit shine through.
The Holiday Mixtape is a cozy, feel-good romance that delivers on both comfort and connection — ideal for readers who enjoy small-town settings, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, and holiday stories with substance.
Thank you to Liberty Stowe, RupertBossier, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this delightful holiday romance.

ARC for Net Galley and Rupert Bossier

This was another fun read by Liberty Stowe. The Holiday Mixtape is full of fantastic characters and Christmas delight.

I loved Erika’s relationship with her best friend, Archer. Can’t wait for his book with Helen.

I also adored Helen’s take-charge demeanor throughout this book. She and Erika’s eccentric aunt, Josie, were the ultimate masterminds behind the plot of bringing Erika to Blitzen.

Kourt is quite the charmer. I had a roller coaster of mixed feelings about him… until his last is revealed and everything starts to make sense.

Erika is a beautiful ray of sunshine with a side of Christmas cheer. She blossoms when she gets to Blitzen after being rejected at work. I loved her intense care for a community that she wasn’t even a part of.

The Holiday Mixtape is the perfect book to kick off the holiday season with some spice and cheer.

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe is the perfect cozy, spicy Christmas rom-com that gave me all the small-town holiday feels! 🎄✨

Erika (with a K) is an ad exec from Chicago whose failed pitch sends her straight into the heart of Blitzen, Kentucky — a Christmas town that’s just as charming as it sounds. While there, she stumbles upon a vintage holiday mixtape that seems to guide her right into the path of Kourt, the town’s grumpy basketball coach and volunteer firefighter. Of course, sparks fly… and not just the Christmas lights kind!

Their banter is hilarious, the chemistry is undeniable, and the story has the perfect mix of heat, heart, and holiday magic. I loved how Erika’s idealism butts heads with Kourt’s grumpiness in the best way possible. And that mixtape, such a fun and nostalgic touch that made the story feel extra special.

Liberty Stowe nailed the grumpy vs. sunshine vibe with this one. It’s got small-town charm, emotional depth, and plenty of spice to warm you up this winter. Definitely one of my favorite holiday reads this season!

Thank you to Liberty Stowe, RupertBossier, and NetGalley for the ARC!

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe is an opposites attract, fun, sexy, heartfelt story about having the courage to take chances and the way that love can sneak up on you when you least expect it.

This is a fun holiday read with all the small-town Christmas vibes.

Thank you Netgalley and RupertBossier for the eARC in exchange for my honest review.

Overall: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Drama: 💧💧.5
Sugar: 🧁🧁🧁
Spice: 🌶️🌶️.5

Tropes: small town - Christmas - grumpy x sunshine - slow burn - only one blanket

“(…) she’s unicorns and stardust. A dreamer when we need one the most. She’s a believer, Kourt”.

This is the story of how Erika with a “K” met Kourt with a “K”, and it sounds like a classical Hallmark Christmas Movie.

It all started with Kourt almost getting run over by Erika; can you imagine a better meet cute? Luckily, the basketball coach is thick-skinned, and the woman who almost killed him is the one who‘s going to save Blitzen, Kentucky. They need money for a new firetruck and, most of all, they have to rediscover the Christmas spirit, lost along the way; bubbly Erika is the only one willing to risk everything in this impossible mission.

I liked the main characters, a grumpy with a big heart, always ready to help those in need, and a sunshine that makes everything magic. I also loved their best friends, Archer and Helen; I hope there will be a book about them soon: they are so funny and made for each other.
However, what makes this romance really enjoyable are the small town Christmas vibes. I love it, because a heartwarming holiday romance with the right dose of spice is all we need waiting for Christmas.

Thanks to Liberty Stowe, Rupert Bossier and NetGalley for the advanced reader copy.

What a delightful book!
Erika with a “K” was such a fun character and the town of Blitzen Kentucky, straight out of a Hallmark movie.

This is the author second book and read both her books. I have to say she is in for one very long career, and she will always be on my TBR list.

Ok so I 100% got Hallmark feels going into this. My first update while reading was also sth along the lines of "if a Hallmark movie was a book, this would be it". But I have to revoke that statement.

BECAUSE those open door scenes? His thoughts?? SIR PLEASE I AM A MARRIED WOMAN. Kourt is a man written by a woman and I ain't mad about it. His thoughts, the jealousy at the fundraiser, his sly smiles, all of it had me kicking my feet.

Erika was a bit more difficult for me to understand, or rather her replies and reactions to situations were sometimes kinda.. out of the blue? She caught me off guard but I think she baffles herself more by the things she says tbh.

All in all I really enjoyed this and if you're looking for a cosy holiday read with some good banter, spice and everything nice, this is it.

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe is the perfect cozy, spicy Christmas rom-com that gave me all the small-town holiday feels! Think Hallmark romance… but with spice. 🔥🎄

Erika is a Chicago ad exec whose failed pitch sends her into a spiral—until she opens a package from her eccentric great aunt, who’s left her a house in Blitzen, Kentucky (yes, it’s as charming as it sounds). While there, she stumbles upon a vintage holiday mixtape that seems to guide her straight into the path of Kourt, the town’s grumpy basketball coach and volunteer firefighter. He’s Blitzen’s most eligible bachelor… and sparks definitely fly!

The banter is hilarious, the chemistry is off the charts, and the story perfectly balances heat, heart, and holiday magic. I loved how Erika’s sunshine clashes with Kourt’s grumpiness in the best way!

Liberty Stowe absolutely nailed the grumpy x sunshine trope with this one. It’s got small-town charm, emotional depth, and plenty of spice. Definitely one of my favorite holiday reads this season!

Thank you to Liberty Stowe, RupertBossier, and NetGalley for the ARC!

What a lovely holiday romance!
I loved the Christmas vibes of this book. I was invested in all the character and their town, I just lover Kourt and Erika’s relationship but also the friendships with Helen and Archer.
Watching the town pull together to bring a lovely Christmas to Blitzen.
A feel good novel with great a bit of spice.

this book was exactly what I needed to get excited for the holiday reading season. The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe gave me all the cozy, small-town feels but with more depth than your usual Christmas romance.

I really connected with Erika. She’s trying to figure out what’s next after her big-city plans fall apart, and that feeling of wanting to start over somewhere quiet? I felt that. When she ends up in Blitzen, Kentucky and finds that old mixtape, it’s like this little spark that slowly brings her back to life.

And don’t even get me started on Kourt; the small-town firefighter who’s grumpy, loyal, and unexpectedly soft. Their chemistry builds so naturally; it’s slow burn, emotional, and a little bit nostalgic. The music element was such a unique twist, it made the story feel personal and warm in a way that stuck with me.

By the end, I was smiling, tearing up a little, and adding this to my comfort-read shelf. If you love second chances, festive small towns, and stories that quietly heal you, The Holiday Mixtape is it.

Sweet, spicy, and full of festive spark, The Holiday Mixtape is a grumpy-sunshine holiday rom-com with heart. Liberty Stowe delivers a charming story of misfit ad exec Erika and small-town basketball coach Kourt, who collide in snowy Blitzen, Kentucky with sass, tension, and an unexpected mixtape guiding their path.

Packed with witty banter, emotional growth, and slow-burn chemistry, this is a Christmas tale that blends cozy charm with fiery romance. Perfect for fans of enemies-to-lovers, small-town magic, and the idea that the right song at the right time might just change everything.

Rating: 4.5/5 – A feel-good, festive read with just the right amount of spice.

The Holiday Mixtape by @authorlibertystowe @rupertbossier @netgalley thank you for this ARC Pub day October 3,2025 📅 Themes: grumpy x sunshine, small town, Christmas, sugar & spice 🥵 🎄🌹💘

Absolutely loved this cozy Christmas read. Erika with a k creates the perfect scene as she stumbles upon a mixtape and decides to play it in her aunt's car. Loved the intertwining of various holiday tunes and the meaningful connection between the tape and the main characters. Definitely worth the read! Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the arc.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publishing team for the opportunity to read this title.

The perfect Christmas romance with that snowy magic that makes your heart happy! Kourt and Erika’s story was poignant, passionate, and filled with lots of Christmas magic.

I really appreciated the growth of both characters as they discover what they really want in life. Erika jumps out of her normal routine to take a chance on her Great Aunt Josie’s odd request, finding more than she could evert imagined in the sweet, small town of Blitzen. Kourt works through his own tough history and makes incredible strides in becoming himself against after tragedy strikes.

This open door romance was the perfect slow burn that ignited into an incredible flame!

I found myself cackling out loud and grinning like a maniac at the spot on banter throughout this book. Liberty Stowe does a fantastic job as weaving humor, sincerity, and emotions all into one great big Christmas story.

I did not want this story to end and cannot wait for more!

This book was so good!! The small town romance was perfect. Kourt and Erika were perfect together. They were brought together by a mixtape and by a meddling Aunt who is flighty. Part of Kourt’s past kind of threw me part way but it made sense for a small town. I loved how Erika decided to help out and make it a small town Christmas again and how the whole town back together. The spicy parts were well written. How it happened first really wasn’t a surprise because jealousy is a real catalyst for some things. The male best friend kind of made me made because he didn’t tell Erika everything even though Kourt knew why. The female best friend was the best and really pushed both of them. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait for the next one. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC.

A charming Christmas romance set in the cozy town of Blitzen, Kentucky! Erika, a creative marketing executive on the run from burnout, finds herself determined to give the town the holiday revival it deserves. Enter Kourt, the handsome basketball coach and volunteer fireman—whose job is to chauffeur her around town but quickly finds himself falling for her infectious holiday spirit.
Their chemistry is instant, their banter is adorable, and the small-town magic is irresistible. The Holiday Mixtape has all the festive sparkle, humor, and heart you want in a holiday romance—complete with Hallmark vibes, cozy charm, and a love story that feels like the perfect Christmas wish come true. Thank you to NetGalley for an advanced copy.

The first thing that grabbed my attention was the front cover, it’s super cute! If you’re like me and love the grumpy/sunshine trope at Christmas, this one’s for you!

I loved that this novel is set in Chicago, I would love to be there for Christmas, hehe. Erika is a dreamer working at a high-profile advertising agency, but after a disastrous pitch, she decides to take a break. She ends up stumbling upon the small town of Blitzen, Kentucky, when she finds a mysterious holiday mixtape at a flea market that seems to guide her destiny.

Erika decides to do something super cute for Christmas, she helps the town raise funds for a much-needed new fire truck. Her campaign forces her to work side by side with the town’s (and our 😉) reluctant hero, Kourt, a handsome basketball coach and assistant fire chief. I’ll be honest, those job titles alone made me wish this man were real! Can you just imagine how hot he must be?? I love how Erika and Kourt are constantly bickering and bantering while navigating their explosive chemistry and trying to save the town’s Christmas spirit.

This small-town romance is packed with friction, and what I personally loved most is the sense of fate and destiny woven into Erika’s journey, and the love between her and… hehe… you’ll have to read it to find out!

If you’re like me and love emotional reads, you might feel that, with the high heat level 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️, there could have been a little more emotional development to balance the undeniable physical chemistry. But if you’re more into the spice than the sentiment, trust me, this is perfect!

“Get in my truck before I pick you up and put you in it.” 🔥

Liberty’s writing style is fantastic, I love how she writes her novels: fun, fast-paced, and full of witty, bantering dialogue. I honestly think this is the perfect Christmas romance, full of heat, humour, and holiday spirit! 🎄

interesting hallmark book with a lot of well-done writing and some awesome vibes throughout. the characters are fun, too. 5 stars. tysm for the arc.

This was such a fun and cozy Christmas romance! Of course, it wouldn't be a holiday romance without a small town setting, which is just the icing on the cake here. The spice was nice too!

I loved this book the spice was amazing, Yes she was being a brat and she knew it and he loved it and when the tension snapped chef's kiss.

Thank you to Netgalley and RopertBossier for allowing me to have this fun read!

Erika has a hard crash at work and with luck, her aunt leaves her home to her in Blitzen, Kentucky. Erika believes she messed up her big pitch, so to get a bit of stress relief, and wanting a Hallmark traditional Christmas, she makes her way to Blitzen where she so happens to crash into Kourt.

Erika had a rough meeting with her bosses, resulting in her sulking and wanting something to cheer her up so close to Christmas. That is when her best friend, Archer, spots a letter from her aunt that leads her right to Blitzen, Kentucky where she so happens to run into, or I should say run over, Kourt. Kourt, being the generous man who serves the community in many aspects, decides to add one more charity to his list by aiding Erika in her quest to turn the entire town of Blitzen into her own Hallmark Christmas.

I honestly loved this story and the relationship between Erika and Kourt. The miscommunication. The angsty energy. The temptation. I literally loved this book from beginning to end. It was quite enjoyable! As usual, I can’t wait to read more from Liberty Stowe.

I also cannot wait to read about Archer and Helen’s story!

oh come on. it should be a law that books shouldn't give you this much fun. should books be making me do shy smiles and smiles that makes my cheeks hurt. ok maybe they should. because this book did all that and made life so much better whilst i was reading it.
we have our two characters who practically growl at each other. but these growls are part of what makes them awesome. especially when they do their best to pretend they are on opposites sides of everything but really they are connecting wildly.
this book has everything you want in a book and everything around this time of year too. that small town needing a bit of a rescue mission to give them their Christmas spirit- tick. two people who come together by accident but need to work together to make it all ok- tick. two people who have their guards but soon find that with the right person it can be broken all the way down- tick. festive fun and other great characters- tick tick tick.
Erika is a fabulous character. she is determined, passionate and good at what she does. and she knows how to go get it. but that doesn't mean she isn't bright and lovely too. her next campaign thought needs someone to help introduce her to the people around town and be her knowing aid. but hes less than enthusiastic. infact he doesn't think she can even pull it off with his help or not. but hes also now finding her infectious. hes knows he has his own walls up. and what he sees in Erika makes him both joyous and envious.
being around each other gives something to both. they connect, they fizz, they understand and see each other.
oh and i shall let you come to see how the holiday mix-tape comes into it all. its that added sparkle these festive books have to them.
i love what Liberty has done with this book. she has bought such cosy feels. she has bought love love love. not only love in the main characters we adore but also in the side characters. the friends and people alongside the main characters in books like this mean they become something so special. that warmth and feeling looked after and looking after those you care for seems to ooze that bit extra from festive reads.
their is so much i could write about this book. and then something. it made me smile to off the scale proportions.
love it.
Liberty is quickly becoming an author to watch for me. her first book i read was equally as stunning. i cant wait to see what she has next. her characters are ones you fall for every single time. you then become completely immersed and invested in the stories.

🎄 Bookish Thoughts
This was such a fun holiday romcom and the spice was🔥🔥🥵🥵
It’s described as Hallmark with spice, and it DELIVERED. I loved the small town setting, the city girl falling for the grumpy firefighter/coach, and the cozy Christmas setting.

Erika with a K was hilarious and full of Christmas spirit. And while I hated Kourt’s name, I loved him with Erika. He tried very hard to not like her 🤣
And oof, his backstory broke my heart 💔😭

Also, can we talk about how Archer sucked. Terrible best friend.

💙 What to Expect
• Grumpy x sunshine
• City girl in a small town
• Firetruck fundraiser
• Found family
_ _ _

⭐ Final Score: 4.5 stars
📅 Pub Date: October 3, 2025
📝 Thank you to RupertBossier and NetGalley for the advanced copy. All thoughts are my own.

Ok. This was holiday romcom magic. Extremely cute. Bubbly, Christmas loving Erika meets small town grumpy playboy Kourt. And by meet I mean literally hits him with her car and he basically says thank you. Perfection.

The Holiday Mixtape was so cute. Erika gets a present from her aunt Josie gifting her her home in Blitzen, Kentucky. The timing couldn’t be better. Erika just massively blew it at her job and is taking a break for the holiday season. And while Blitzen sounds like a Christmas dream, they’ve been out of the spirit for the last few years. Josie takes it upon herself to revitalize this town by bringing back their Christmas village they use to be famous for. And of course she can’t do any of this alone and she’ll need the help of Kourt, the high school basketball coach and volunteer firefighter who can also stand to gain some things.

Let’s talk about Kourt and Erika. The sarcasm, the flirting, the banter….the chemistry!!! I never tire of a grumpy x sunshine trope. I loved Kourt trying to avoid it, but also giving Erika everything she could ever need and want. I loved how he helped the town give her the chance. She’s truly the sweetest thing. And the fate of it all!? I won’t spoil anything, but that mixtape was meddling and spooky and I loved it. Also, the cave scene. Both of them. Yes.

There wasn’t a character in here I didn’t love. I love that they both had besties of the opposite gender. They had their person. And I’m beyond ready for their book.

The depth of the story too. Coming out of grief. That being a forever battle. But having your people there always rooting for you. Battling self confidence and belonging. Knowing what you deserve. Wanting to be someone’s first choice. Ahhh. So many beautiful lessons there.

I absolutely adored this. It was an absolute joy to read! Once I started, I just didn’t want to stop. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read this ARC!

Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and RupertBossier for the advance reader copy of this title.

I loved this one! A sweet holiday story that was driven by a chance find in a forgotten box of donations. When Erika finds herself in a “Christmas” town that has forgotten how to Christmas, she’s thrown into a partnership with a grumpy basketball coach and fire chief, Kourt, to try and raise money for a cause to help save the town. Of course this takes a turn, but then it veered off tracks in an unexpected way. This was a quick read, lots of holiday cheer, a feel good story and quirky side characters. I can’t wait to pick up more by this author.

This had everything you want in a romance: banter, bickering, sweetness but spice! Add in the Christmas time setting and this was perfect for this time of the year!

I absolutely loved *The Holiday Mixtape*! Erika and Kourt’s story had me smiling from start to finish. The small-town Christmas setting was cozy and charming, and the mixtape itself was such a clever, heartwarming touch. I adored the “Grumpy × Sunshine” dynamic—Erika’s energy and optimism paired perfectly with Kourt’s tough but tender heart. The romance felt genuine, the community moments were sweet, and the holiday spirit really shines through. A delightful, feel-good read that left me ready for cocoa, cookies, and a Christmas playlist of my own!

It’s an amazing hallmark movie with spice. A small town romance with basketball; what more could you ask for. I loved how Kourt and Erika fell in love in his truck. I will definitely read more books by this author. It was a perfect book for the holidays.

If you're looking for a book that is the definition of a cozy holiday escape, then look no further—but be prepared to blush! The Lit Whisperer is here to confirm that The Holiday Mixtape is essentially a spicy Hallmark movie in book format, delivering all the heartwarming charm, small-town magic, and undeniable steam you could ever want.From the moment I picked it up, I genuinely could not put it down. Liberty Stowe has crafted a perfect blend of festive cheer and deeply engaging romance set in the charmingly named Blitzen, KY.The main romance is sizzling, with a passion that could melt all the snow in Blitzen and then some...I am also desperately looking forward to the mystery surrounding Aunt Josie being unveiled in the next installment and the next love story of course!
Thanks Netgalley for this eArc!
Check out my reviews @TheLitWhisperer

I loved this book. It was fun to read the Erika and Kourt storyline develop and I really like that there was a deeper back story to the characters which made them so relatable.

A heartfelt and cozy holiday romance that is wonderfully charming!

"The Holiday Mixtape" by Liberty Stowe is an absolutely delightful read. From the very first chapter, I was drawn into the warm, nostalgic atmosphere and immediately connected with the characters. The story combines festive cheer, emotional depth, and a touch of second-chance magic in a way that feels effortless.

The development of the relationships is believable and genuinely sweet. I loved how the mixtape element tied the characters' past and present together; it added a unique emotional layer that made the story stand out from other holiday romances. Stowe's writing is smooth, engaging, and full of heart, making this an easy book to devour in one sitting.

I would give this book 10/10 for their or packages alone. The books in print are gorgeous and the stickers and cute little decorations they sent?! Adorable!!! As someone who loves Christmas and music this book was perfect for me! Loved it!!

If you are looking for a cute, holiday read that isn’t too cheesy, this is perfect!🎄❤️ I had never read Liberty Stowe before, but I am so happy I came across this book! I will be reading more of her stuff for sure 🤗

Erika lives in Chicago, works in advertising and lives her life by fate. She receives a letter that leads her to Blitzen, Kentucky where she lives in her great aunt’s home. She meets Kourt on her first day there and they definitely have a spark! Kourt is a teacher, basketball coach, and volunteer firefighter 🤭

Even though the town is named Blitzen, there is nothing Christmasy about it. The people of Blitzen have to raise money for a new fire truck by the end of the year. Erika knows just the way to help fundraise and she plans to turn this town into a Christmas land again by doing so!

This book has hallmark vibes, so much banter, TENSION, slow, slow burn, grumpy x sunshine, and so much more. It was a quick and cute read. I definitely recommend ❤️❤️❤️

Hallmark. Love. Christmas. Self worth. Friendship. Topped off with a bit of spice. This was perfection. No notes and a must read.

I won't lie. This was completely a cover grab. It immediately caught my attention and after reading the book, I believe it couldn't be better. Maybe it's because I always wanted a VW Beetle, who knows.

Erika with a "k" leaves Chicago for the holidays to go stay at a mysterious home in Blitzen, Kentucky left for her by an even more mysterious aunt. She immediately meets Kourt, also with a "k" who is the local basketball coach/high school teacher. They meet with a bang when she hits him with her aunt's stick-shift Beetle. Even though they irritate the heck out of each other, Erika learns that the town is in desperate need of a new firetruck or their insurance rates will increase devastating the town.

Erika vows to use her marketing knowledge to help Blitzen raise the needed funds and remember how they used to enjoy celebrating the holidays. Throw is some great grumpy/sunshine vibes, holiday cheer, a possessed mixtape (well, not really but it does play random songs at random times), and a two side characters who I know are destined to be together eventually, and you get a wonderful book perfect for the Christmas season.

I really loved the setting as well as the characters in this book. Blitzen, Kentucky basically becomes a character of its own I loved its small-town vibe. Erika is quirky and loveable and both she and Kourt have a backstory which the author does well to share without involving flashbacks or a dual timeline. Also, Erika's best friend Archer and Kourt's best friend Helen are two of the strangest, but also the best characters I've met in a long time. And yes, there is a companion book coming out in October 2026 the author teased me with at the end of this one which I may NEVER forgive her for - JK.

My only real complaint with this book is that I felt it was a tad too long and the middle part tended to drag a bit. However, the payoff is worth it, and I would recommend this to anyone looking for a bit of spicy holiday cheer!

OH MY GOSH, this book was the perfect Christmas romance!

There's so much I loved about this book. I loved just how grumpy Kourt was, and while I had a small guess as to why he truly hated Christmas, the big reveal was not what I was expecting. Poor guy just needed to realize he deserved love again!

Erika was such a sweet FMC to come into a town and help bring it back to life. Her joy around Christmas and the holiday mixtape with everything, not to mention her determination! Plus, Aunt Josie was the perfect dash of mystery throughout the book!

The spice... ooh that spice was good! Who knew staring out a window at snow could be so delightful!

I was not a fan of Erika's bestie because, girl, that boy clearly loves you, but I am hoping he and Helen get their own story next!

Also, I have to give a major shout-out to Liberty Stowe. I read your debut novel and liked it, but girl, this I absolutely LOVED! So thank you to you and RupertBossier for allowing me to read an advanced reader copy. This book will forever be in my Christmas rotation now!

The Holiday Mixtape proves Liberty Stowe knows exactly how to write small-town romance that feels real, warm, and just the right amount of unhinged. Her character work is magic—grounded, relatable, and somehow both bigger-than-life and incredibly believable. And her dialogue? Sharp, cozy, and spicy all at once.

Erika and Kourt spark instantly, but Stowe’s slow burn keeps the tension stretched deliciously tight until it finally snaps in the best way. The mixtape element is clever and emotional, the town feels lived-in, and every side character adds something memorable without stealing the spotlight.

It’s festive, it’s charming, it has actual heart, and the spice level is doing the Lord’s (and Santa’s) work. 🌶️🌶️🌶️

Skip this book and you’ll be the reason Rudolph drinks eggnog straight from the carton.

Love, love, loved this story. It moved quickly but was not hard to follow as the characters were lovable even when a bit grumpy. Small town romance that had basketball, Christmas, bedroom spice, and may possibly a holiday book I will read every December!

It was amazing. I love it. Cant wait for the squeal. The character development and the slow-burn. I love the chemistry between the characters. 10/10

The Holiday Mixtape is the first Christmas romance I have read for the year. And boy am I glad it was! Throughout the book I felt like I was a member of Blitzen and enjoyed the Christmas festivities with Erika with a K and Kourt with a K. The romance between the two was a slow burn but once they both admitted to their feelings the romance was epic. I will be eagerly waiting for her new release in October 2026!

The Holiday Mixtape is Liberty Stowe’s second novel, and I couldn’t wait to dive into her wonderfully festive romance. This story truly has it all—a charming small town craving a dose of Christmas spirit, a marketing exec on the run who’s determined to embrace the holiday season to the fullest, and a ridiculously handsome firefighter who captures her attention from the very first moment.
Erika is confident, clever, and bursting with ideas, determined to turn Blitzen, Kentucky into the most magical version of itself. Kourt—a smoldering high school basketball coach and volunteer firefighter—is tasked with driving her around town to meet local business owners and discuss her holiday plans. Sharing a truck cab with Erika completely unravels him, and it doesn’t take long before he’s utterly captivated. Her enthusiasm for all things Christmas makes him yearn to feel that joy again himself.
Erika is enchanted by Blitzen’s cozy, Hallmark-worthy vibes. Bringing holiday magic to the town alongside Kourt fills her with warmth and happy tears. Falling for him was never part of the plan, yet it becomes the sweetest gift she could have imagined. Kourt charges into her life like a buzzer-beater shot, showing her just how bright her future could be.
A heartwarming, delightful holiday romance—perfect for anyone wanting to get lost in the magic of the season.

This book was a delight to read as we launch the Christmas season of 2025. I loved the songs from the mixed tape. The banter, the Hallmark vibe of the town of Blitzen, and the sweet cast of characters. This would be a great movie!

I couldn’t put this one down! The small-town Christmas vibes were perfect, and the chemistry between the city girl and the grumpy firefighter/coach was chef’s kiss. Erika with a K had me laughing nonstop, and the emotional depth with him made me tear up more than once. I also can’t get over how much Archer annoyed me—worst best friend ever. This one hits all the cozy, romantic, spicy marks.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the advanced copy. 🫶🏻

Absolutely loved this book! It was giving Hallmark meets spicy vibes. I loved the FMC Erika and the mmc Kourt turned out to be grumpy sunshine! I loved the town of Blitzen and the small town vibes. I enjoyed great aunt Josie and her quirky personality. The book had great character development and I can’t wait for the next book to come out. This was a perfect holiday read!

I really enjoyed this read! The characters were relatable and well written and the plot was interesting and well paced. I would definitely recommend!

"I look like a cupcake in snow boots next to all the denim and plaid."

As soon as Erika gets to Blitzen, Kentucky the "Christmas Rom-Com" vibes are strong.
She and Kourt have the funniest meet-cute, which led to me putting the book down so I could enjoy a full belly laugh while picturing what I just read.
The Holiday Mixtape has a few of my favourite tropes- grumpy/sunshine and "oops we fell in a frozen lake and need to share body heat!"
There is small town coziness, best friend sidekicks and a love story that moves through many emotions.

The real Christmas magic that shines throughout this book: an old VW Beetle's cassette deck and a mysterious mixtape that plays the right song at the right time!
The author provides the track list for this mixtape right at the beginning, so be sure to download these songs and enjoy them while you are reading!

This book promises sweet and spicy, and it is! If you prefer your books without intimacy scenes, note that they are easy to identify and skipping them will not take away from the overall love story.

Thank you so much to NetGalley & RupertBossier for the opportunity to read The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe! Such a fun start to this cozy season!

#TheHolidayMixTape #NetGalley

If Hallmark ever makes a spicy holiday movie-this is it. I liked that this had the sports romance trope but considering its a winter themed book-it was a different vibe because most winter book are centered around hockey.....basketball was a nice change. The fireman aspect made me so happy. I LOVE firemen! the banter was top tier. The spice was phenomenal. I loved the track list at the beginning. I remember sitting on the floor in front of my stereo so i could make mixtapes. The nostalgia brought me back 25 years and I'm here for it. Lots of fun supporting characters. This is a holiday must!

Thank you @netgalley to provide me with an opportunity to read this story in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Holiday Mixtape by Liberty Stowe

My rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Holiday Mixtape is a warm, charming Christmas romance with just the right mix of sweetness and spice. The characters feel real and relatable, and the grumpy x sunshine dynamic brings so much chemistry, tension, and heart to the story. I loved the cozy festive mood woven into the plot — from holiday traditions to the emotional nostalgia of a mixtape reconnecting two people.

The side characters add so much fun and depth, making the story feel like a found family Christmas movie you want to rewatch. A wonderful seasonal read full of warmth, humor, and winter sparkle. Perfect for curling up with during the holidays.

Tropes:
)☀️ Grumpy x Sunshine
🎄💕 Holiday Romance
🏘️✨ Small Town Vibes
🫶🎁 Found Family
🔥⏳ Slow Burn with Spice
💔➡️❤️ Emotional Backstory
❄️🏠 Cozy Christmas Setting

I loved this book so much. It was like a spicy version of a Hallmark movie with an even deeper plot. I cannot wait to read Archer and Helen's story!