I have to admit that I really didn't find Justin that appealing early on. He was young when he won the baking show and has managed to turn himself into an "influencer" but he seems to have gotten too caught up in it. He didn't have a solid childhood so he's trying to get to the point he feels comfortable about his financial future. It's caused him to make a few poor choices and he's starting to struggle with it. And meeting a truly good soul in Brody only emphasizes how lost he's become. He stumbles a few times but the developing relationship with Brody has him figuring out the right thing to do. 

Brody is much more appealing from the first. He might have taken a hit to his self-esteem but his heart is good. And meeting Justin has him realizing that his ex might not have broken him after all. He's a positive influence on Justin and quickly the two are spending time together, growing closer.

Cupcakes & Christmas is sweet, simple, and full of all the good things that makes a holiday romance work. Two people meet, develop feelings for one another, face their demons, and figure out a way to have a future together, which makes for a straight-up, feel-good read. The best kind for this time of year!

(Opinions are all my own and not influenced in any way.)