Overall, I enjoyed this book. The writing and plot kept me turning the pages and I loved Caleb and Gwen's connection. Their love is so pure and cute, and they are both loyal and committed to each other. I enjoyed all the characters and Jenny and Dean's blossoming romance as well. I was genuinely happy for them when they got together and slightly more interested in their story.

There were a few things that bothered me, though.

This has one of my least favorite tropes ever. I won't say what to avoid spoilers, but it was something I saw coming, and is overused and I'm over it. There were a couple other things that were predictable as well.

The first sex scene between Jenny and Dean was partly hot, and partly cringe. The cliche trope of the FMC seeing the MC naked for the first time and her shock of him just being sooo big that he won't fit, and him saying "don't worry, you can take it, I'll make sure you're ready." *EYE ROLL* I just read another scene like this in a different book that I DNFed. I'm begging all authors... please stop writing this.

I can't say much more due to spoilers, but I did love the ending and would read the next book in the series.

RATING: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
SPICE: 🌶️🌶️

Holiday Wedding is the second book in the Holiday Romance series.

I’m going to start this off by saying I probably made a mistake. I should have read book one first! So don’t be me! I think I would have just connected more with Gwen’s part of the story, if I had already read her and Caleb’s back story.

I really did enjoy this book even despite my mess up! I think it was a great balance of getting to see an established relationship mature and develop while also watching another begin. Jenny is such a ray of sunshine who takes a job following her best friend’s fiancé around for a month. But what she learns is that his life is not always easy, especially when people don’t respect his privacy and he has a stalker. As Jenny is forced to interact with Caleb’s body guard Dean more she finds she wants to know more about him!

Gwen decides, with the support of her fiancée and family to go to a medical conference on the west coast just a couple weeks before her wedding. But she finds that not everyone wants to support her, especially Caleb’s fans. I loved seeing Gwen find the balance between being a doctor, who just wants to help save more lives from her father’s terminal disease, and a supportive fiancée.

If you are looking for a holiday romance, this is a great book to get your hands on!

Thank you Dr. Melissa Dymond for the gifted ARC!

Tropes:
🩷 Enemies to lovers
🩷One bed
🩷Grumpy Sunshine
🩷He falls first
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Found family

4.5 ⭐️

Thank you to NetGalley, Victory Editing and of course, Dr. Melissa Dymond for providing me this ARC in exchange for my honest thoughts!

This was such a cute holiday read that has a great mix of romance and mystery! I had never read a book that has both of those but Dr. Melissa Dymond exceeded my expectations. Although this is the second book in the series, I truly had no issue keeping up (will definitely be reading “Holiday Star” after this though!) The story follows two couples, and although I wasn’t sure how I would like that when I first started reading, I really enjoyed it! The romance between both couples was captivating and sweet, and the suspense had me trying to put all the pieces together, trying to figure it all out. Can’t wait for her next book!


Tropes:
- grumpy x sunshine
- doctor x celebrity
- journalist x bodyguard
- one bed
- forced proximity
- he falls first
- snowed in

4.5 stars

I did not read Holiday Star (book 1) and it did not impact me in being able to read/enjoy this book at all. I do, however, have a renewed sense of urgency with going back and reading book 1 to fully appreciate all the characters.

That being said, Gwen and Caleb are on the road to having the wedding of their dreams after a very rocky start in book 1. Both are dealing with their own things that they keep from the other while also navigating things together. One thing after another just pops up to derail this wedding, but in the end, not even a blizzard can stop their love. The way they learned to let the other in and ask for/accept help from not just each other, but those around them is a lesson I can probably learn a little more.

This book doesn't just give us the continuing love story of Gwen and Caleb, but we get a BONUS love story between Jenny and Dean. Gah I loved these two so much! My heart ached for them both in different ways. Jenny for never feeling good enough and feeling like she's always stepping in it. Dean for his trauma and survivor's guilt/lack of self-worth. I'm not saying someone should find their sense of self or measure their worth based on someone else, but the way these two helped teach the other that they are good enough, they are perfect, and they are just...enough was so touching. Everyone needs someone in their life (not necessarily a romantic partner) to help remind them of how amazing we really are. The grumpy/sunshine, frienemies to lovers vibes that these two have...I'm a little obsessed with them both.

We also get a mini-bonus love story with Alvina and Wayne! How adorable are the two of them? I can't wait to go back to Holiday Star to get some more background on the two of them. They seem like a fun arc.

The story ends with a wonderful set up for Teddy and Helen (hopefully there's another one with them?)

I loved the dual POV with both women and the suspense (stalker!) was perfect. Since there was no 3rd act break up (seems like the one in the first book was dramatic enough and this one didn't really need it, but it needed some kind of drama) it fit in nicely. I thought I figured out the stalked right away, but I was wrong.

Lastly, THE ILLUSTRATIONS! I'm such a sucker for illustrations and the ones in this book are sooooooooooooo perfect!

• Dual POV
• Suspenseful Romantic Comedy
• Spicy & Sweet Version
• Two Different Couples
• Forced Proximity
• Mental Health Representation
• Holiday Vibes

Thank you, Dr. Melissa Dymond and NetGalley for the ARC.

I really enjoyed this story! I hadn’t heard of the author (relatively new to my renewed love of reading) and I was not sure if I was going to like it. However, from the first page I was like “OKAY GIRL! Starting off with a bang hunh?!” 😂 I stayed up way too late last night reading, so thanks for that lol.

I saw so many examples of communicating boundaries that I had to highlight so that I can share with my clients (I’m a therapist). There were so many aspects of this book that spoke to me that I really appreciate. This one got me “Why can’t I be both? Why can’t I be more…” I see so many clients who are battling the boxes. Other people are just trying to make sense of their world and so they categorize. But we aren’t two dimensional. We get to define ourselves and the definition can be flexible and adaptable.

My silly self didn’t read Gwen and Caleb’s story but now I definitely have to. Jenny and Dean were sweet. Imma need him to get some consistent therapy though lol maybe a little EMDR. I was a little taken aback by the bonus chapter mid story but I’m glad I read it honestly. Also, the spice is pretty great 😊 I truly look forward to reading about Teddy and Helen. I need to read what happens next 😈

Thank you Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op for my first ARC! 🥰

I have been waiting for this book and I am obsessed with it! The book is fun to read, entertaining and lighthearted. Along with all the fun of celebrating the wedding of Gwen & Caleb, Dymond weaves in the topics of PTSD, challenges couples face even before marrying and the importance of family & friends - all still in a light manner befitting the book. There are a few twists in the book, but also there is an underlining story that takes time to develop as the book moves along. It is a mini mystery and adds to the fun of the book.

I read the spicy version of the book and it was good. The spice is on the mild side yet enough if the reader does like spice in their books.

This is a good book for Christmas wedding vibes and for anyone who read HOLIDAY STAR, the story of how Gwen & Caleb came to be a couple. (Note: This is a stand alone book, so reading HOLIDAY STAR is not necessary). I absolutely recommend giving this book a read.

I absolutely love being back with Caleb and Gwen, and getting to see new couples emerge made this book all i hoped it would be. I love all the artwork that is in the book and I can not wait to read Hoilday Love next

☆Holiday Romance at its best♡

I can't get enough of this story! I'm completely blown away by the fact that this author is so incredibly talented she mixed two couples into one book. I really enjoyed the dual pov. It was pretty cool flipping back and forth between couples and what's going on in their worlds. Gwen and Caleb were great, but I think I might love Dean and Jenny a tad bit more. Their banter was so enjoyable, and I just loved them so much. This is honestly a perfect book to kick off the holiday season with!

Thank you to NetGalley and Victory Editing for this arc.

So this is actually a 3.5 rating for me. It’s actually not a bad book and at some point, I did enjoy it. But I what didn’t like is that I feel like Gwen was more the main character rather than Jenny. I would have really liked to have it focus more on Jenny and Dean‘s story. I did not read the previous book and maybe it was written and like this double point of view thing but when reading the summary it said this follows the story of I think the story of Jenny it did say there was a double point of view between Gwen and Jenny it just really bothered me that we were switching between these two, especially when Gwen was the previous protagonist of the first book from what I’m gathering it just really did not do to me. I would’ve liked to be more in Jenny and Dean's story rather than this whole bit with Gwen and Caleb so that’s not something that I really enjoyed but the story itself was easy to follow and easy to read and I finished it quite fast. I think I'd have finished sooner if I wasn’t so put off by the double point of view.

There is also not really much character depth which is fair because I feel like that’s supposed to be a feel-good romantic comedy Christmas story but it really wasn’t that but it was nice. I’ll give it a 3.5 only because it was easy to follow and at times I really liked Jenny.

Review posted on October 11 on Goodreads. October 31 on Netgalley.

Holiday Wedding by Dr. Melissa Dymond is the perfect mix of holiday romance and suspense, offering more than your typical seasonal romcom. The story follows two couples: Gwen and Caleb, who are navigating wedding planning amidst their busy careers, and Jenny and Dean, whose chemistry and witty banter steal the show. Gwen’s best friend Jenny, a lively entertainment writer, adds humor and warmth, especially in her interactions with the stoic Dean, Caleb’s bodyguard. Their “sunshine-and-grump” dynamic is irresistible, blending tension with genuine heart.

Dymond skillfully balances the holiday charm with a touch of suspense, adding a mystery twist that keeps you guessing. This is an ideal pick for anyone looking for a cozy, spirited holiday read with just the right amount of romance and intrigue.

Holiday Wedding is the sequel of Holiday Star and i got lucky again for the 3rd time receiving an ARC from Melissa!

just so y'all know, 10% of this book proceeds to colon cancer research which is so cool & generous.

i really really enjoyed the continuation story of Caleb & Gwen + their friends Jenny & Dean (my new favorite btw?!) the story starts off with them getting married in 2 weeks, the couple are super thrilled for it but there are certain circumstances that are in the way—Caleb's celebrity status & Gwen trying to further more of her medical career as a doctor. one thing after another just pops up to derail this celebration including a stalker & kidnapping but in the end, not even a snow storm can stop their love from blooming.

i love that the focus doesn't just focus on the main characters but we get to see some romance from Jenny & Dean too. my heart was hurting for these two because they are both imperfect people just looking to be loved. Dean from his trauma & ptsd (military related) and Jenny for her self confidence. their story is beautiful and i love that they got a healthy communication.

this book got all that you need if you're looking for a romantic and swoony suspenseful story <3

• dual POV from both girlies
• so much comedy that made me laugh so hard
• sweet & spicy
• two stories in one!
• forced proximity
• mental health rep/military trauma
• christmas vibes

this book comes out Friday, November 1st! make sure y'all read it if it's your type of book. i loved it so much and cannot wait to read more from this author. thank you netgalley <3

this is my 5 star read. well deserved.

Holiday Wedding is the continuation of the love story between Caleb Lawson, a world famous actor, and Dr. Gwen Wright. It is also the love story of Caleb's body guard, Dean, and Gwen's best friend, Jenny,....AND a teaser for Dr. Dymond's next book! There is a lot packed into this book. I read the beginning of Gwen and Caleb's story in Holiday Star. That is what attracted me to this book. If you haven't read Holiday Star, I suggest that you grab it now. I think this book will be more enjoyable if you know the beginning of Caleb and Gwen's story.

This is a spicy book as is evident from the opening paragraph. It's the continuantion of a celebrity romance and it's an enemies to lovers, forced proximity romance. Mostly, it's just swoony. This book has it all, romance, spice, swoon, mystery and danger. I read it in one sitting and actually got upset when the plot took a turn I wasn't expecting. I felt like I understood each of the four main characters and was attached to each of them and the two love stories happening contemporaneously. There was the obvious villian (or maybe more accurately the a$$ of an ex) that I really didn't like and the villian you don't see coming. But this is a romance novel, so in the end you get not one, but two happily ever afters and a preview of a third yet to come.

Read Holiday Star and then grab Holiday Wedding. You won't regret it.

I should note that I have not read Book 1 (Holiday Star), but I followed and enjoyed these characters' stories anyway! Gwen and Caleb are to be married, but their careers have pulled them apart in the final days of chaotic wedding planning. Caleb is a celebrity, and Gwen is a doctor. There is some angst from her if she is ready to be part of the celebrity life. The real favorite is between Jenny and Dean. These enemies to lovers serve some comedic relief in some otherwise dry moments. While I did get the spicey version, I think the clean/closed door version would be equally enjoyable because I really enjoyed Melissa Dymond's writing style. Definitely want to read more by her!

Releasing this Friday, November 1st!! 10% of proceeds to colon cancer research. Available in a spicy or clean version. Holiday Wedding can be read as a stand alone. However, I appreciated it more having read Holiday Star first.

4.25⭐️s I really enjoyed the continuation of Gwen and Caleb’s story. Loved getting to know Jenny and Dean. Honestly would have loved more focus on their back stories and them overall. I felt that the story flowed well with the changing POVs between Gwen and Jenny.

Gwen and Caleb are getting married in two weeks. They are both very excited. But the pressure of Caleb’s celebrity status and Gwen’s desire to further her career as a doctor continue to clash. Gwen has barely seen beyond the surface of what fame can mean. It’s not until her speech at a conference that has a lot of Caleb’s fans and when one of his stalkers begin to get too close that Gwen truly sees the struggle.

Jenny has been given the opportunity to get the full scoop of the wedding. As a journalist, it helps to be best friends with the bride to be. However, Jenny continues to struggle to forgive herself for leaking information about Gwen and Caleb before. She is on a mission to do everything right this time. Especially when a stalker is threatening to ruin the wedding. With the help of Dean (Caleb’s bodyguard), Jenny will help find the stalker before something bad happens. Or so she hopes. Dean is quite the distraction. The snow storm doesn’t help their stakeouts but it sure does seem to help heat up their chemistry.

Thank you so much to @netgalley @thenerdfam and @melissadymondauthor for the advanced reader copy. It was such a pleasure to be a part of Dr. Dymond’s arc team again. #holidaywedding #advancedreaderscopy #netgalley #thenerdfam #holidaystar #pagingdrhart #melissadymondauthor

This book pulled me in right from the beginning with its mix of romance, mystery, and holiday cheer! It’s not often you get a festive read that delivers both a cozy love story and a bit of thrilling suspense, but Melissa Dymond absolutely nailed it here!

I loved that we got to experience two love stories here. Watching Gwen and Caleb, who are already in love, face the chaos of wedding planning in a blizzard (plus a stalker!) was such a fun ride. Then there’s Jenny, Gwen’s best friend, who is reunited with her old nemesis, Dean, who also happens to be Caleb’s bodyguard. Their enemies-to-lovers chemistry was amazing, and their banter made the pages fly by.

The dual POV between Gwen and Jenny worked perfectly for this story. I loved getting both women’s perspectives as they handled love, careers, and a crazy wedding week. Jenny and Dean teaming up to track down the stalker was the cherry on top, adding a thrilling twist that kept me guessing until the end.

If you’re in the mood for a holiday romance that’s steamy, suspenseful, and tons of fun, Holiday Wedding is perfect. It’s got the right balance of heat, heart, and mystery—ideal for curling up with by the fire!

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC in exchange for my honest opinion.

"Holiday Wedding" by Dr. Melissa Dymond is a spicy holiday romance that seamlessly blends passion with suspense, making it a perfect read for the festive season. The story revolves around a couple navigating the complexities of love and danger during the holidays, keeping readers on the edge of their seats. Dymond's writing is engaging, and her ability to create tension and chemistry between the characters is impressive. The plot twists are unexpected yet satisfying, adding depth to the romance. Overall, "Holiday Wedding" is a captivating and thrilling read that will warm your heart and keep you guessing until the very end.

This romance-meets-suspense novel drew me in completely. I haven’t read Holiday Star yet (that’ll change soon!), but I loved every page of this book.

Dr. Melissa Dymond’s dual POV storytelling brings a captivating rhythm to the story, allowing us to delve into Gwen’s perspective as her wedding to Caleb approaches. Both are on a journey of healing, working through past traumas—grief, struggles with addiction—and strengthening their bond. Their relationship is deeply heartfelt, evolving with an authenticity that’s both moving and inspiring as they grow individually and together.

Jenny and Dean’s storyline is another gem. I found myself drawn especially to Jenny; she’s strong yet battles low self-esteem due to past rejections, which makes her journey relatable. And Dean? Let’s just say I’m a huge fan! His loyalty and kindness shine, helping Jenny find confidence and happiness.

Dr. Dymond masterfully combines romance, suspense, and thoughtful reflections on healing and growth. It’s like reading a romance and self-discovery guide rolled into one, with characters who feel like real people navigating life’s ups and downs. Truly loved it!

This was so good! This reminds me of a cute hallmark movie and would be perfect to read over the holidays.

This story has a great balance of romance and comedy with an underlying mystery/suspense plot line. Gwen, a doctor is about to marry her famous husband in a holiday wedding, Caleb, and enlists the help of her best friend, Jenny, to help plan things with the best man, Dean ((Caleb’s bodyguard). Told in dual PoV from Gwen and Jenny, all four characters and their respective relationships and troubles are well-developed and interwoven for a lighthearted, quick read. I need to go back and read Holiday Star, which features Gwen and Caleb’s burgeoning relationship, however, I had no issues following along with the characters and happenings in this book. The artwork at the end of some of the chapters was breathtaking, the bonus chapters and epilogues were fun too, and the fact that this book is offered in both open and closed door romance versions is so clever.

OH MY FREAKING GOD!!!
THIS, THIS READ RIGHT HERE IS MY BEST HOLIDAY ROMANCE OF THE MONTH!!!

Thanks https://www.netgalley.com/ and Victory Editing for providing me this beautiful ARC.

BOOK IDEATION

❤ Holiday Romance
❤ Doctor x Celebrity
❤ Journalist x Bodyguard
❤ Grumpy x Sunshine
❤ Forced Proximity
❤ Enemies to lovers
❤ Dual Couples
❤ Snowed in


"What do you want to call me?"
"Mine, I want to call you mine."


I really adore Melissa Dymond's writting. I was waiting eagerly for this book after finishing Holiday Star, and book two didn't disappoint at all!

Loved all the banters, tensions and recalling. And, DEAN, obviously!!!!

Can't wait to check out her other books and excited for the third one ❤