Return to Prince Edward Island at Christmas time with Liz Johnson with Meddling with Mistletoe. What do you get when you mix a baker in need of an oven, who finds in in the form of an Inn as long as she cooks breakfast for the inn and a single man with a nosy aunt? You get a matchmaking scheme at Christmas. This sweet novella is just the thing to get into Christmas spirit. It was also nice to visit old Prince Edward Island favorites, but also to meet new favorite characters in Whitney and Daniel. I do recommend that you read both the Prince Edward Island Dreams series and the Prince Edward Island Shores series before this novella. I can’t wait to read this one again in December.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

“It was the best of times, it was the worst of times. And she was definitely in the wrong Dickens story.”

I have three words for you when it comes to Liz Johnson’s new Christmas romance, Meddling with Mistletoe – I LOVED IT. Okay one more word – MISTLETOE. And when you take that word and combine with KISS, well scoop me up from the floor because WOW. I’m still fanning… and apparently still adding words to this review.

But I can’t help myself because, oh my stars, this fairly quick (but not too quick) read is so much fun! I grinned a lot, I chuckled some too, and I even got a little misty-eyed toward the end. Johnson’s writing voice is so witty here – definitely my kind of humor – and the romance is super swoony with some toecurling kisses and emotional heart-tugs. And the characters! I loved being back at the Red Door Inn with familiar and beloved friends such as Jack & Aretha (though I side-eyed her a few times in this one) and Marie & Seth and their absolutely adorable kids (especially Julia Mae). But I also loved loved loved Daniel and Whitney and their opposites-attract dynamics and gosh they made me smile. Even when I was frustrated with these two, I understood why they reacted the way they did based on their backstories and well-drawn layers. I adored Julia Mae & Daniel’s interactions too, and I thought the author did such a fabulous job of making them simultaneously humorous and meaningful.

Bottom Line: Bring your pie cravings, a mug of your fave winter beverage, a quirky turkey toque, a cozy quilt, and a fan when you settle in to read Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson! This delightful Christmas romance has it all – fun humor, precocious kids, yummy food, a little drama, a sweet message of faith and purpose, multi-dimensional characters, all the festive vibes, and a swoonilicious romance! I so enjoyed reading this book (in case you couldn’t tell) and it’s going on my shortlist of Christmas stories that I recommend ad nauseam. Do yourself a Christmas favor and grab Meddling with Mistletoe ASAP!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Meddling with Mistletoe
Liz Johnson
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Whitney Garrett is selling homemade pies to pay her tuition to culinary school. When a broken oven threatens her plans, Whitney asks to borrow the kitchen at the Red Door Inn to keep up with her orders. In exchange for use of the oven, Whitney agrees to prepare meals for guests of the inn.
While there, Whitney gets drawn into a matchmaking scheme devised by a well meaning aunt to set up her nephew, Daniel, and a visiting business woman, Ruby. However, the more Whitney learns about Daniel, the more she wonders if Ruby is his perfect match after all.

This was a sweet holiday story with plenty of nostalgic activities interspersed from sled riding to taking a stroll through town to see the Christmas lights. The stage was set for romantic moments perfect for falling in love and we can’t forget to mention the mistletoe! While there was a church Christmas production and a manger scene, there wasn’t much in the way of spiritual content. However, one truth was definitely prevalent, accepting who God created us to be versus comparing ourselves to others. Johnson did a wonderful job of celebrating the uniqueness of each person created in the image of God and embracing our individuality for His glory.

We received an advance copy from the publisher. This is our honest review.

Such a fun read! Highly recommend.

Many thanks to Netgalley, the author, and the publisher for my ARC. All opinions are my own.

The funny thing is that hearing your laugh reminded me that I hadn’t heard my own in a really long time. You helped me find it again. And I will never forget that. ~Daniel to Whitney page 245

This is such a cute book that has a lot of depth to it & not just a fluffy feel-good romance. Though truth be told, it does have a bit of that too!

Liz Johnson is one of those authors that tends to make fiction real for me in the way she writes, from feeling like her characters are some I wished I could meet, to how the story plays out on the pages. I think I loved Whitney and Daniel from the get-go. In spite of the meddling of his Aunt Aretha, and all mishaps and missteps, I loved seeing how Johnson got these two opposite people together. I feel they communicated well and complemented each other in the end. I loved seeing Daniel become more relaxed & saw his hidden humor come through and I loved how he encouraged Whitney and made her feel like her dreams & goals were important. Their interactions were fun to watch & their banter made me laugh more than once.

I have not read the Red Door Inn series, but most certainly will after this! I loved seeing the interplay between all the characters and how they made up a community that helped each other. This story was a hit for me and I hope other readers agree! It’s so hard to review a great book like this without giving anything away. It’s one for Christmas fans and those who are looking for a feel-good story full of faith, love and romance…and of course, admirers of Liz Johnson.

*I received a complimentary copy from Revell and was not obligated to leave a favorable review. All opinions stated here are mine alone. *

Meddling with Mistletoe was a cute Christmas novella which had everything a reader would want for a Christmas novella.

A grinchy male character who slowly but surely shows us his softer side as the story developed. A cute, bubbly naïve female character who capture everyone’s hearts through her pie baking. Then a possible love triangle and a meddling aunt who tries to play cupid.

I enjoyed getting to know all the characters and watching the unwanted love relationship developed between characters it was easy to connect for and root for a happy ending.

Meddling With Mistletoe is a delightful holiday romance that captures the magic of the season while exploring themes of family, love, and second chances. Liz Johnson crafts a charming story set against the backdrop of a small-town Christmas, filled with quirky characters and heartfelt moments.

The plot revolves around the spirited protagonist, who returns to her hometown during the holidays, only to find herself at the center of a matchmaking scheme orchestrated by her well-meaning relatives. Johnson skillfully weaves humor and warmth into the narrative, making the reader feel right at home in this festive setting.

The romance unfolds beautifully, with a slow-burn chemistry that is both realistic and captivating. The interactions between the main characters are filled with witty banter and tender moments, making it easy to root for their happily ever after.

Johnson's writing shines as she paints vivid scenes of holiday cheer, from bustling Christmas markets to cozy evenings by the fire. The small-town atmosphere is rich with charm, and the supporting characters add depth and humor to the story.

Overall, Meddling With Mistletoe is a perfect read for anyone looking to get into the holiday spirit. It’s a heartfelt tale that reminds us of the importance of love and connection during the most wonderful time of the year.

Thank you to NetGalley for providing a copy of this ARC.

Liz Johnson writes an adorable tale of finding love when you least expect it. Whitney needs to make money to go to culinary school and Daniel
Is back in his home town helping his aunt sell her business. Enter the meet cute!
Meddling with Mistletoe is an enjoyable, quick Christmas read anyone will enjoy!

I love this book! It did not take long to read and has a Christmas theme, which is a bonus for any time of the year! What makes this book so delightful to read are the characters, Whitney and Daniel, especially. Whitney needed to use a friend's kitchen in order to bake pies, earning money to pay for culinary school. She agreed to help play matchmaker for Daniel and Ruby before realizing that the two will not make a good couple. Daniel needed Whitney's joy and people skills, and Whitney appreciated the true worth of Daniel, as he helped her follow her dreams and personal strengths. The engaging children presented lead the adults in reinforcing the true faith meaning of Christmas. Give yourself and early Christmas gift and read this!
I read this book compliments of the publisher. The thoughts expressed are my own.

I seriously loved this sweet Christmas story. It's part of a series but completely stands on its own. Liz Johnson is a new to me author and I really connected with her writing style.

Although I'm not quite ready for Christmas, I couldn't have loved this more. It is so festive, I loved the small town vibes and the characters were absolutely superb.

I loved having the opportunity to go back to PEI in the form of a book, especially one set at Christmastime. It's always wonderful to read books set in my country, and even more fun to see some Canadian references sprinkled throughout the story. PEI definitely steals the scene with its quaint country charm and the precocious yet endearing children round out this story, along with the friends that Whitney has made over the years. This book shows the consequences of meddling and how it can affect other people's lives, packing a lesson into this Christmas tale.

If you haven't read the Prince Edward Island Dreams series before, there may be some questions that linger in your mind regarding the background stories, but this was only a slight detraction in what can be read as a standalone novel. If you're looking for a sweet Christmas story that gently develops into more romance, this continuation of the books about the Red Door Inn will welcome you in with both arms while referencing the true meaning of Christ's birth. Readers will enjoy seeing straight-laced Daniel mellow and Whitney bloom into the kind woman she is who seeks to bless others, making this book even more of a Christmas gift.

Thank you NetGalley for the ARC. This was a cute and cozy read. Whitney's stove breaks down right before she is set to go to Culinary School. Her and the innkeeper decide to switch services, she can use the stove there if she babysits for him.

Meddling With Mistletoe by Liz Johnson is a wholesome, enjoyable novel with characters that are lovable, and easy to root for. Whitney Garrett is at the heart of the story. Her determination to fund her culinary school tuition by baking pies for the Christmas market is both endearing and inspiring. I especially enjoyed her interactions with the Sloan family, because the children had so much enthusiasm and wonder about Christmas. There's an especially poignant scene where the true meaning of Christmas is described so perfectly by a sweet, spunky little girl. I loved it!

The sweet romance between Whitney and Daniel slowly builds throughout the novel, and I was fully invested in watching their relationship develop. The Christmas-themed storyline, full of festive cheer and community spirit, made me feel completely immersed in the holiday spirit. I also couldn't help but smile at the meddling antics of Aretha Franklin Sloan, who is hilariously determined to play matchmaker, adding humor and heart to the plot.

Johnson weaves together romance, family, and a dash of holiday mischief in a way that makes you want to savor every page. If you’re looking for a clean, heartwarming romance with the perfect blend of Christmas and Prince Edward Island, then Meddling With Mistletoe is the ideal read for you this season!

Unfortunately this one fell flat for me. Overly contrived to the point of silly with cliché characters. The plot doesn't make much sense, in my opinion.

Arc from NetGalley and Revell to read voluntarily.

Another fantastic read by Liz Johnson!

After visiting Prince Edward Island, I can honestly say that Liz Johnson has nailed North Rustico and Summerside. It was such a treat to travel back to one of Canada’s prettiest islands while reading Meddling with Mistletoe.

I haven’t read all the Red Door Inn series, but quite enjoyed this novel connected to it. I’m sure a couple of characters are featured in other books and after reading this one, it makes me want to read the previous books.

Whitney’s character is interesting - she’s the first character I’ve ever read that doesn’t have a goal. She literally has no goal in life and is floundering. The way the author handles this is creative and only endears readers to Whitney’s plight. Thinking she has a goal, she’s easily persuaded by an older character to follow a matchmaking plan so that she will gain the last of the finances she needs to go to culinary school.

Daniel’s character is a loveable grump! He’s concerned for his aunt and comes to the island to help her negotiate the sale of her antique store. His aunt has bigger plans for him than just to help her sell her store - which creates delightfully awkward moments.

This is a fun Christmas read, with a light faith thread. The slow-burn romance keeps readers turning the pages well into the night.

I loved every minute of this story.

I received a copy of the novel from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

I have a friend or fifteen who would probably love this book, because it’s a Christmassy matchmaker novel. (You know who you are.)

But really, this book is absolutely adorable. I’m not normally a huge fan of Hallmarky type books, but even though this book has all the necessary ingredients - a young woman finding her way through career changes, a grumpy young man home for the holidays, forced to work together, a meddling matchmaker aunt - it's not quite Hallmark, which is actually a good thing. …but there's a twist. Whitney has to help matchmake Daniel with someone else. If you love lighthearted stories with heartfelt themes, where the main characters fix themselves instead of expecting the other person to heal them-this is the story for you. It has Christian elements, but more of an undertone. It’s a great little book and I had a blast reading it. It’s sweet, has that small-town feel, you’ll want to eat all the bakery sweets in the world while you’re reading, and the characters are lovable for the most part. Definitely add this one to your TBR for the holidays!

I might be falling down the rabbit hole of loving fluffy Christmas stories. Ugh.


FTC: I read an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own; a review was not required.

Meddling with Mistletoe is a light and easy read that brought a smile to my face. Whitney Garrett agrees to help in a matchmaking scheme to connect the two Red Door Inn guests Daniel and Ruby, while attempting to earn the last of her tuition to pay for culinary school by babysitting and baking at the Inn. Unfortunately for her, or maybe fortunately, things do not go as originally intended, as she spends more and more time with Daniel. Of course there is the inevitable miscommunication trope that comes into play, but holiday romances promise happily ever after, right!?!
I finished this in a couple days after work. The book includes sweet characters, touching interactions and a small town feel that we all want in a holiday story. I would recommend grabbing this to read by the fireplace in late fall, early winter, or even read by the light of the Christmas tree to add extra joy to your season.

Whitney Garrett doesn't have a dream. But she's pretty good at cooking, so after a few "failure to launch" endeavors, she decides to go to culinary school. Her finances are proving an issue, but then her friend Aretha strikes a deal: Help my nephew fall in love with a visiting businesswoman and I'll cover the rest of your tuition.

How hard can it be to help two people fall in love?

Aretha's nephew Daniel is serious and studious. The holidays are not his favorite time of year, and his past heartbreak has made him guarded against all things romance. It's not his idea of a great time to spend December on Prince Edward Island helping his aunt close her business. But there's something endearing about his aunt's friend Whitney, and soon Daniel decides to brighten his own holiday by finding ways to make Whitney smile.

When Whitney realizes she's developing feelings for Daniel, will she decide to follow her heart or follow her desire to go to school? What will happen if she breaks her agreement with Aretha and can't make her school payment?

There was a lot to like about this book. A charming Prince Edward Island setting. Well-developed characters. Lots of references to pies and baking. The practical issues in the book made me shake my head, though, and I found a healthy dose of suspension of disbelief is required. I did love the way faith and the dreams of our heart were woven into the story. I really enjoyed seeing Whitney find her path, and I think this is a message a lot of readers can relate to.

If you're looking for a Hallmark-y holiday read, this short novel might be for you!

I received my copy of the book from NetGalley. All thoughts in this review are my own.

Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson is a sweet Christmas novella that takes place on Prince Edward Island. Whitney Garrett is saving money towards culinary school and she needs a place to make her pies to sell. Her friend at the Red Door Inn will allow her to use the oven at as long as she helps with Breakfast and babysits. Daniel is helping his Aunt her to sell her store. His aunt has plans for Danie that include falling in love with someone of her choice, but Daniel may have other plans.

This was a great Christmas novella and I enjoyed the characters and watching them grow through the story. The dual POV with Whitney and Garrett was engaging. The sweet children in the story reminded us of the true meaning of Christmas. I enjoyed this quick read that made we want to go decorate a tree, of the importance of family, and the beauty of friendship. I really enjoyed it.
.
This was a sweet Christmas story with engaging characters, wonderful themes, and a lovely Christmas setting. I found it the perfect Christmas read. I recommend Meddling with Mistletoe by Liz Johnson.

I was given a copy by the publisher and not required to write a positive review.

This was such a sweet romance and I am a sucker for anything set around the holidays. It was full of familiar tropes but felt fresh.