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Back to You this Christmas

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Bah-humbug!This Christmas, all I wanted was to wallow in self-pity until the woman I thought was the love of my life could explain why she left me at the altar. Instead, my buddy, Zach forced holiday merriment on me. I thought it was going to be a tinsel-laced nightmare... until his sister, Alexa, showed up. Turns out, she grew up into a gorgeous present I was insanely tempted to unwrap. Lucky for me, she shared my desire to meet under the metaphorical mistletoe... and let things heat up from there.For the first time in months, Laura, my ex, wasn’t haunting my thoughts like the Ghost of Christmas Past. Which, of course, is exactly why she had to pick that moment to call and say she wanted to talk. I could only hope St. Nick had a playbook in his sleigh because things were about to get complicated.From author S.L. Sterling comes a sizzling holiday romance hot enough to roast your chestnuts!

180 pages, Kindle Edition

First published November 22, 2019

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About the author

S.L. Sterling

39 books3,506 followers
USA Today Bestselling Author S.L. Sterling was born and raised in southern Ontario. She now lives in Northern Ontario Canada and is married to her best friend and soul mate and their two dogs.

An avid reader all her life, S.L. Sterling dreamt of becoming an author. She decided to give writing a try after one of her favorite authors launched a course on how to write your novel. This course gave her the push she needed to put pen to paper and her debut novel "It Was Always You" was born.

When S.L. Sterling isn't writing or plotting her next novel she can be found curled up with a cup of coffee, blanket and the newest romance novel from one of her favorite authors.

In her spare time, she enjoys camping, hiking, sunny destinations, spending quality time with family and friends and of course reading.

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5 stars
125 (45%)
4 stars
88 (32%)
3 stars
32 (11%)
2 stars
23 (8%)
1 star
4 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 120 reviews
2,792 reviews40 followers
December 2, 2019
Back to You this Christmas by S.L. Sterling Back to You this Christmas By: S.L. Sterling
Great Read That Surely Doesn't Disappoint! One-Click "Back to You this Christmas!"
He NEEDED a Break after being Dumped at the Alter,
Sooo His Mate dragged Him Home...
Where He RAN into His Sister!
Now, She's ALL GROWN Up...
And can He say, She's look'n Mighty Fine!
Plus, there's some serious Chemistry between them...
But they are Stay'n across the Hall from each other IN Parent's HOME & there's a Brother in the Mix TOO!
Ahhh don't think this situation is resolved quite Sooo quick...
Cuz His Ex has come BACK think'n She's gonna Snag another GO with Him too,
Which is where our Gal takes decides is a great place to make an EXIT Plan,
Cuz NoBody likes seeing Somebody Else's lips ON their MAN!
Sooo who's running "Back to You this Christmas?" Is the Question of import...
Is IT the Ex gett'n Her Second Chance by going "Back to You this Christmas?"
Is IT HER Head'n BACK Overseas?
Is IT HIM gett'n "Back to You this Christmas" HIS Ex?
or IS IT HIM gett'n "Back to You this Christmas" by Run'n after His Newfound LOVE before it's TOO LATE?
I was granted, via B00|{$P®0UT, an ARC of S.L. Sterling's "Back to You this Christmas." I recommend this book to others based upon its own merits. All opinions expressed within this review are uniquely my own & freely given!
Until next time... Happy Reading!
My Rating Sytem:
4🌟:I like IT a lot. Great, Solid Story w/ few if any inconsistencies or errors. This is a HIGH Rating, & I rarely give OUT a Higher Rating.
If My Review is helpful to you, please check the box below~ Thank You.
Profile Image for Jennifer .
698 reviews4 followers
November 10, 2019
4.5 Stars. Holiday books are not usually my type of favorite reads. Why? No clue. Neither is those Hallmark movies. Yes I know, hang me up now lol. But with that said, I may have to give holiday books a second look.
From Ms. Sterling comes Drew and Lexi's story. We meet Drew right after he's been dumped. And in grand fashion I might add...at the freaking ALTER! Ouch right, cept he's more broken up about the expense lol. The bad thing, she's not the only woman to have ever have left him. Lexi has no such excuse. She's running just the same anyway.
These two will make you scream with frustration. Laugh at their antics. And celebrate when they finally get their heads out of their own a##'s.
Profile Image for Kaye.
7,178 reviews68 followers
November 26, 2019
ONE OUTSTANDING ADVENTURE!!!
Crap on toast! Sterling breaks the chain, charters the course and conquers the passage. Imparting well rounded scenario's, ramping up the excitement and adrenaline with such intensity and skill, melding this gem together flawlessly. Seducing a god, rending the rules, propelling this baby into the eye of the storm, breaking it down, throwing it into a tailspin with staggering impacts. The chemistry is intense, sizzling and palpable. The personalities are well matched and blended. The characters and scenes are written with such realism and depth it makes for one outstanding experience. Remarkable job Sterling, thanks for sharing this little jewel with us.
Profile Image for isabela..
233 reviews39 followers
December 16, 2020
[2/5]

i would’ve rated a little higher but omg wasn’t she annoying by the end of the book?
42 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2019
A great read to get me into the Christmas spirit. Brilliant read
91 reviews
December 5, 2020
What a great Christmas book. This was a hard one to put down. I loved the connection between Alexa and Drew.
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
2,527 reviews47 followers
November 21, 2019
You know when Christmas is coming when Hallmark Christmas Airs on TV and when you get to read a good Christmas Romance. BACK TO YOU THIS CHRISTMAS is just that! This book is just one of those that you can cuddle up under the blanket and read from cover to cover and come out at the end of it with one of those secret smiles that everyone wants to know Why!

And lets be honest who could resist a cover like that!

Drew is stood up at the Alter by his girlfriend of 15 years - and although his p***** and left with a 50K bill somewhere deep inside he is relieved - don't get me wrong he would have gone through with the wedding but he wasn't 100% sure if Laura was really the one for him especially after he had spent a weekend with his best friend Zach and his girlfriend Ann Marie few months before where the connection between the two was nothing like his but everything he wanted.

Alexa is the baby sister of Zach - photograph spends her tine all over the world - but after she breaks up with her boss she now just wants to go home for xmas. Drew is now 6 months on from the wedding that never was he has thrown his self into work as a top lawyer in NY still coming to terms with being left after 15 years and never seeing the signs is invited to spend the Christmas holidays with Zach and his family who have been more like parents then his own.

As soon as Zach sees Alexa the sparks fly and his torn between persuading something with his best friends sister or hurting Zach who as always been there for him. Alexa wants Drew from the moment she sees him again. One night together changes everything for Alexa but Drew is overcome with guilt and stays away from Alexa; Alexa isn't a person to give up but when she stops Drew with his ex in a coffee shop heartbroken she decides to pack her bags and leave.

What will Drew do when he finds Alexa gone? Will his best friend support his decision.

Snuggling down and find out!

NB I did receive this as an ARC for an honest review!
Profile Image for Diane Plourde TDC Book Reviews.
1,750 reviews27 followers
November 27, 2019



There are thousands of amazing authors out there just waiting to be discovered. They say to never judge a book by its cover, but I had no idea who the author was. Presentation is a big part of what makes the story. I will admit I saw the cover and just fell in love with it. I read the blurb and thought to myself, “I want to read it”. I did. In one sitting. This 6 star story was much more then it’s amazing cover.

Alexa is working as a photographer in Europe, she misses home. Things have not worked out how she thought they would. Drew needs a much deserved vacation especially after what he went through. Jack, Alexa’s brother brings Drew home for the holidays. See where this is going.

As soon as I started reading it, I knew I would have to read it all right away. I just couldn’t seem to be able to put it down for very long. It’s addicting and entertaining. There was never a dull moment or pages filled with unnecessary details. What I look for in my stories are the characters. These ones were perfectly crafted to make me love and feel for them. The chemistry between Alexa and Drew was astonishing. They could melt the snow off the roof.

This was a brother’s best friend to lover kind of story. I haven’t read too many Christmas themed contemporary romance. I’m sure glad I picked this one because it’s a heartwarming experience. It’s very sweet and filled with Christmas spirit. Beautifully written with an enticing storyline.

Standalone told in a dual POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
Profile Image for Joelle.
1,608 reviews17 followers
December 5, 2019
This was the perfect read to get you in the mood for the Holidays !

The story was a sweet and one that had a really great cast characters and all about a second chance at finding happiness as well as love.Drew and Alexa were floundering a bit due to their love life being on the frizz and among other things but, returning home again for the Christmas Holidays is just what each of these lost souls needed to mend their broken hearts.

I have to say that we loved the family rituals and the memories that were spoken about and done around the Holidays with this family and when Alexa's mother told a story about Alexa's grandparents it brought me to tears.

Talk about chemistry - Alexa and Drew had that in spades.

Overall we really enjoyed this sweet romance as this couple found love and healing in another's arms when neither expected it which made it even a more sweeter tale.This was a story where Christmas Magic was definitely at work.I have to say that I am not much of a reader that reads themed books about the Holidays but, after reading this story it got me in a mood to read others like it.

We have to say that we are really are enjoying this authors stories and we are always looking forward to see what they create for us.

"The perfect mix of love ,romance,healing,family and Christmas Miracles!"
Profile Image for Amy Stephens.
Author 122 books524 followers
November 22, 2019
Such a heart-warming holiday read from S.L. Sterling!

I discovered S.L. Sterling's not long ago, and when I found out she was releasing a holiday story, I couldn't wait to read it. There's just something about her writing that lures you in, and after reading the blurb for Back to You this Christmas, I knew I was going to be in for a complicated situation.

I don't want to compare Drew and Alexa's story to one of those cheesy Christmas movies because it doesn't even come close. But, what I will say, is that you're definitely going to put your emotions to the test. Alexa and Drew knew each other from long ago, and when they see each other again at a Christmas function, there's no denying the chemistry that exists between them. Both have struggled with their own issues and you feel that they both could be good for one another if they'd just give it a try. There's a lot they both have to overcome personally, but you're left feeling so elated when painful pasts are put aside.

Alexa and Drew are two characters that absolutely deserve happiness during the holidays and they're going to work their way into your heart. Their story is a must-read and one that's sure to put a little joy into your life!

Five twinkling stars for this holiday romance!
Profile Image for Melody Massacre.
122 reviews10 followers
November 20, 2019
Back To You This Christmas ARC Review
🎄🎄🎄🎄🎄
From the gorgeous book cover to the wonderful story telling by S.L. Sterling this is a must read this holiday season. Also if you love all those romantic Christmas movies on the Hallmark channel this is like that but very mature 😉😉 Nothing like a hot, steamy romance to get you into the Christmas spirit.

Alexa is lonely abroad. After some complications and her losing her job she is ready to pack up and head home to see her family for Christmas and possibly stay. For Alexa her life is seeming so unclear. Drew is being sent on vacation by his boss and after his best friend Zach invites him to go home with him for the holidays what choice does he really have. Being left at the alter with no answers has just been brewing over his failed relationship and the money he lost for a wedding that didn’t end in marriage for him. Once he lays his eyes on Alexa the attraction between the two is clear but is it the best idea to hook up with his best friends sister and in the home with the people he considers family around?
Such a good steamy holiday romance leaving you warm and happy. 😊❤
882 reviews5 followers
November 23, 2019
Brother's best friend is one of my favorite tropes and this one was absolutely wonderful! Alexa has had a crush on Drew for years. Drew has been left at the alter with no idea why. He goes with his best friend, Zach, back home for Christmas and sees Alexa again for the first time in years. They have immediate chemistry and start spending time together. Their story is full of intense chemistry, shared memories, love, steam, drama and a beautiful HEA. I have only read 2 of S.L. Sterling's books but I am completely hooked! I was immediately drawn into Drew and Lexi's story and couldn't put it down.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
1,870 reviews4 followers
November 27, 2019
This was an awesome book that I really enjoyed. The story and characters grabbed me from the beginning and I couldn't stop reading. I loved Drew and Alexa and watching them grow together, they were well written and went well together. It's a great heart warming treat with sparks and chemistry to get you in the holiday mood. I found this book amazing with great word building making me feel apart of the story and watching it unfold in front of me. A definite must read for any fan and I can't wait to read more from this author!!!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Rochelle.
1,599 reviews
November 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this book. Drew and Alexa were so good together. Both had some major’s issues going on with their lives – Drew was left at the altar by his girlfriend of 15 years and Alexa was dumped and fired by her boss/boyfriend. They both are now at home basically licking their wounds. The more they are together; they start to develop feelings for each other. Will they be able to overlook their issues with past relationships and work their way to a HEA?

I received an ARC of this book and I am voluntarily leaving an honest review.
November 7, 2019
Wow, I love a good Christmas love story and this was like no other.

Drew was everything you would want in a man, and Lexi was off travelling the world.
Family always come together for Christmas and Lexi and drew come face to face after living there seperate lives for years.

I loved everything about this story, it made my heart sing.

Christmas +Love=Amazing.

S.l. sterling is a new author to me but I'll definitely be checking out what else she has, this story was wonderful.
Profile Image for Nicole ReadingBetweenTheSheets.
884 reviews38 followers
November 22, 2019
Back to you this Christmas is a wonderful, Christmas romance! This brother’s best friend romance was very enjoyable! The characters (Drew, Alexa, and brother Zach) were the perfect combination of family and friends. I loved the backstories of both Drew and Alexa as well as the storyline that gives them their happily ever after! This is a kind of like a Hallmark Christmas movie with snow-melting heat! Really loved this one! Author SL Sterling threw down all the feels in this one! LOVED IT!
Profile Image for Reina Brouwers.
124 reviews1 follower
November 15, 2019
I love S.L. Sterling's stories. This is my first time choosing a Christmas story. This book was like a hot, sexy, steamy Hallmark holiday story line that is not found on TV. This story made me cry, laugh and want to find me a man like the lead guy Drew. Christmas was the background to this wonderful romance and brought everyone together in the story. I was not able to put this book down.
Profile Image for Tammy.
9,013 reviews44 followers
November 25, 2019
Fast-paced steamy holiday read. After being dumped Drew just wants to be left alone for the holidays but his best-friend Zach won’t let him. When he sees Zach’s sister again, sparks fly but what will happen when his ex calls. Entertaining read with plenty of drama and great chemistry, a sweet holiday read. I liked it.
764 reviews10 followers
April 8, 2020
Amazing!

A quick awesome slice of Christmas magic anytime of the year! I have loved everything written by this author, and this particular story maybe my favorite! Drew and Lexi are phenomenal characters, and I absolutely loved the storyline! Best friends little sister, long time childhood crush, pefection!
Profile Image for Jackie Roberts.
927 reviews8 followers
January 30, 2020
This was a sweet, slow burn love story about second chances, and missed opportunities.
This was a great read. The story was very well written with great characters. The story drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
Profile Image for Tiffany Ransier.
Author 13 books1,938 followers
November 25, 2019
I love love love Christmas romance books! I loved S.L.'s last one too. So many great moments between Alexa and Drew and I love their chemistry. Another awesome book that was easy to get lost in.
Profile Image for Tayra Sanders.
2,313 reviews29 followers
Read
January 4, 2020
This book hooked me from the beginning. I just couldn’t put it down. I fell for these characters and, what a story just perfect.
Profile Image for Kathleen McWilliams.
20 reviews1 follower
January 11, 2020
OMG! This book took me for a ride and I couldn’t put it down! I read it in one sitting! Amazing, adventurous, super sexy, and heart felt! Loved it!!!
1,641 reviews6 followers
January 14, 2020
Great book that once you start you wont be able to get enough of these characters at all. Just really enjoy holiday reads and this was no different. Love this authors writing for sure!
Profile Image for Rachel Reads Romance.
384 reviews44 followers
December 18, 2020
h: Alexa
H: Drew
(Dual POVs)

Okay first off, this cover you guys! Completely captivated me! I mean how could you not be awestruck by it?! It’s so hot! I never thought I’d want to be tangled up in Christmas lights but this cover might make me change my mind!

This book provided all the nostalgic holiday vibes and I was loving it! From finding the right tree and getting it home to decorate it, to baking sweet treats and drinking hot cocoa. I absolutely loved how family oriented this holiday themed romance was and I adored the way Drew was practically treated as an honorary member of the family from being Zach’s best friend for years.

Alexa is feeling lonely with all the traveling she does for her job and she is getting to the point where she wants to settle down with a man she loves and that loves her just as much. She’s always had a crush on Drew, her brother’s best friend, since she was young but was never really able to act on it since he was in a long term relationship for years. When Drew joins Zach and Alexa’s family for the holidays, Drew immediately notices that Alexa has grown into quite the woman since he last saw her.

Drew is very avoidant when he gets into situations he’s not comfortable in, specifically situations where emotions are involved. He walks away from Alexa at one point, leaving her searching all over town for him for over an hour in the cold. I felt like this type of behavior was brushed over because it would hurt Alexa’s feelings but Drew never really apologizes for the way he acted towards her.

There were a couple minor inconsistencies I found in the book that were just slightly annoying that they weren’t found during editing. For example: one page talks about Drew removing his hat, coat and gloves and going to the counter to order a drink. The very next page he returns to his table and is taking his coat off again.. very minor in the grand scheme of things but just annoying. There was also one chapter in the middle of the book that was from Zach’s point of view which I thought was a bit confusing and wasn’t necessary in the storyline to get the point across.

I adored the epilogue! I was overjoyed with the way things turned out for these two and couldn’t have asked for anything more for their HEA!

Favorite Quotes:
Perhaps I should just call up one of the local hotels and go there instead. Sure Barbara and Jim would be upset, but they would be more upset if they found me balls deep in their daughter. -Drew

”Has it been so long you’re afraid you won’t be able to find the hole?” -Zach
108 reviews1 follower
December 19, 2020
Home is where the heart is

To know someone for your whole life and being good friends with them seems so rare. Alexa has known Drew for a while since her brother Zach is his best friend. Drew was supposed to get married but his ex never made it down the aisle. Drew wonders what happened and why she left him although he had been having doubts of marrying her. He is good to take extra time from work and he plans to spend his time with Zach and his family.
Alexa has been working overseas for a few years and she misses her family a lot. She comes home for Christmas looking for a reason to stay. Alexa surprises her family was they didn't know she was coming home and they wonder why she is home and for how long.
Alexa and Drew dance around each other with their flirting. When they finally kiss things heat up quickly. Will they admit their feelings to each other before it's too late? What happens when insecurities, too much thinking, and an ex comes back into their lives when they list expect it? Can they move forward or will they go back to their past?
I enjoyed the story. There were some grammatical errors but overall it was a good read.
Profile Image for ☆Laura☆.
2,659 reviews26 followers
December 28, 2021
Ella tiene 26 y él 31, pero parecían de 25 años con lo inmaduros que son.
Drew no estaba listo para otra relación apesar de que decía que ya no amaba a Laura y que no estaba triste porque lo dejo en el altar. Todo el tiempo pensaba en ella y al final cuando le contó a Alexa lo del beso dio a entender que sólo está con ella porque cuando se estaba besando con L no sintió nada.

Alexa me hubiera gustado que se diera su lugar cuando Drew la ignoro por una semana después de que tuvieron relaciones. Ella no merecía eso y odié como lo buscaba e intentaba hablar con el cuando era evidente que él no quería.
Algunas de sus reacciones se me hicieron exageradas como cuando se enteró que D vendió la casa.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for AnneKR.
867 reviews24 followers
November 22, 2019
Holiday love

Lexi returns to her hometown, feeling lost and unsure about the direction her life has taken. She hasn’t seen her parents or brother Levi in a while, but she wasn’t expecting to also see Drew, Levi’s best friend, who was jilted at the altar six months prior. She’s always had a crush on Drew, and now that she’s all grown up Drew can’t help but notice her as well. They finally give in to their feelings but what happens when Drew’s ex unexpectedly comes back? This was a good, holiday read. Looking forward to reading more from this author!
818 reviews5 followers
January 4, 2020
Nice romance.

This was a nice romance. Alexa was so stubborn. Drew already had a past hurt from when he was six years old. Then to be hurt again by his dad was awful. Being with somebody for fifteen years and then walking away and not explaining what happened was mean. Alexa was just drifting and really wanted to go back home to her family. Glad they discovered they had things in common and stayed together. Loved Alexa's family.
Profile Image for Whit.
3,208 reviews40 followers
December 28, 2021
Sweet! Sassy! Suspenseful!
My heart broke when Laura jilted Drew at the altar. Seriously? She couldn't say anything BEFORE they waltzed down the aisle? Nevertheless, everything happens for a reason!
As it turns out, Lexie, Drew's best friend's sister, is the perfect one for him. But Lexie's heart has been broken too. And when the going gets tough, Baby Girl runs! Will Drew be able to convince Lexie that the only place she should be running to is straight into his arms?
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