Merry and Bright

by Ali Rosen

Review

There’s just something about a good fake-romance setup that always pulls me right in, especially when it’s tucked inside a holiday story with a guaranteed happily-ever-after. This one kicks off with two strangers who meet at just the right (or wrong?) time and both desperately need a buffer for the holidays. Heading home single can feel like dodging rapid-fire questions from well-meaning relatives, and these two decide they’ve had enough. Their pact to pretend they’re together is equal parts hilarious and endearing, and it immediately sets the tone for a warm, festive, slightly chaotic adventure.

What I really loved was how quickly their connection shifts from convenience to something real. Even in such a short, fast-paced story, their chemistry builds in a way that feels so natural. Watching them go from fake dates and planned moments to genuine feelings had me grinning the whole way through. It’s a light, fun holiday read that delivers exactly what I wanted—sweet moments, flirty banter, and that satisfying slide into love we all know is coming in a holiday HEA.