Eugene and the Box of Nails by Jaime Samms

Title: Eugene and the Box of Nails

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Jaime Samms

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 1, 2017)

Length: Short Story

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Blurb: Every time it seems like things are looking up for Eugene Kraft, disaster hits. Bankruptcy, a bigoted sibling, and a back-breaking accident have all left him with little money and less faith in the universe.

His last-ditch effort at peace is the small lakeside property where he is building a tiny house from recycled materials. If he can get it livable before the cold sets in, maybe he’ll be okay. Hopefully Cullen, the foreman on the construction site next door, won’t notice Eugene pilfering discarded materials from his dumpster.

When Cullen stops by to talk to Eugene, he’s sure the gig is up—but all Cullen wants is a date. Can two things go right in Eugene’s life? At first it seems possible. Projects on Eugene’s house are getting completed by what he dubs “construction elves” while he’s off site. But like Eugene predicted, his good fortune can’t last, and soon he has a tough choice to make: give up his home… or the man of his dreams.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-316-9

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Eugene is a sweet young man who has had a hard life. He had not been able to read for many years, went to work with his brother who turned around and stole his money because he was gay, lost his job because of an injury and lost his home. He had to start all over. He bought some cheap land that couldn’t really be used and started building himself a home. Since he was broke you will have to guess where he got his equipment. However it was starting to get real cold. When the foreman from the site he had been grabbing old materials out of shows up, he is real surprised when Cullen tells him why.

This has made my day. Although I understand Eugene’s reason for wanting to do it all on his own, it does show how good some neighbors can be. I absolutely loved this story and would hope that it was going to added onto later on. It was the perfect Christmas story I have came across in a long time.

I really enjoyed it and would definitely recommend it.

The Werewolf Before Christmas by Charles Payseur

Title: The Werewolf Before Christmas

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Charles Payseur

Genre: Christmas, Paranormal, Holiday

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 30, 2017)

Length: Short Story (35 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Ray seems like the perfect boyfriend—he’s gorgeous, incredibly romantic, and has a mechanical suit he invented to become the dastardly MantaRay. For Alec, who also spends his nights making life difficult for do-gooders everywhere, it’s a match made in supervillain heaven. Except that Ray is a bit too into the hit soap opera All My Werewolves. When tempers flare during what’s supposed to be a quiet night out, Alec nearly ruins everything over a stupid bet with an alien gorilla.

Desperate to prove his feelings to Ray, and with Christmas fast approaching, Alec decides the fastest way to Ray’s heart is to embrace the thing that threatens to divide them—a certain werewolf show with a certain actor who Ray admires. A simple kidnapping promises to do the trick, only fur (and fandom) fly when Alec’s romantic gesture leads to a very hairy situation. Can Alec prove to Ray how much their relationship means to him, or will his plans be ruined by the werewolf before Christmas?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-315-2

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Alec and Ray are supervillians. Although they really don’t act like it though. Alec wanted to show Ray how he truly felt for Christmas. However his weird side wouldn’t turn down a bet by Ray’s best friend. Now he really had to make plans. Ray loved this soap opera called All My Werewolves. It involved a good twin and an evil twin werewolves, played by the same guy. So Alec made a plan that involved the actor, boy is he in for a major shock and surprise.

While I was wanting a good paranormal story, this was not what I had expected. It had a pretty good twist to it that was pretty cool. I am not much into superhero’s and supervillian’s, but this story kind of made it rock. It was an adventure that is for sure.

I had a kick reading it and I am pretty sure you will also.

New Game, Start by C.S. Poe

Title: New Game, Start

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: C.S. Poe

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 29, 2017)

Length: Short Story (38 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Reclusive medieval scholar, Edgar Royal, has a crush. On a guy. Not a big deal, except that said guy, Walter Chase, is a famous online gamer who has no idea Edgar even exists. Edgar has harbored these feelings for nearly a year, and when Walter announces on Twitter that he’ll be visiting New York City as a guest at the GamerOn convention, Edgar decides he’ll be one of the thousands of fans who responds to the message.

He definitely doesn’t expect to be singled out by the humble, gorgeous, out-and-proud heartthrob. And when it comes to dealing with people, Edgar’s skills are pretty nonexistent. Even with Walter giving all the right signals, Edgar lacks the courage do anything about the mutual attraction growing through their online courtship. He’s always been better with the written word, so maybe the perfect Christmas gift will say what he cannot. But if Edgar can’t get the present to Walter before the convention ends, he may miss out on the boyfriend of a lifetime.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-314-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Edgar has a crush on Walter. The problem is they have never met, they have never spoken and Walter is a famous online gamer. That is until one night and he just so happens to find out that his crush is going to be in New York. So he gets the courage up and sends him a message. To his shock, Walter message’s him back. Walter is a big name guy, where as Edgar is a quiet guy who translates old languages. It will be a nice surprise.

I enjoyed this story quite a bit. I still don’t understand the fascination with stars or famous people, but Edgar seems to make it easy looking. I was quite surprised by this story. It is a short story that has quite a bit in it. It was fun and enjoyable.

I would definitely recommend this book.

Ghostwriter of Christmas Past by T.A. Moore

Title: Ghostwriter of Christmas Past

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: T.A. Moore

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 28, 2017)

Length: Short Story (57 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Ever since ghostwriter Jason Burke ended up in loco parentis for his orphaned niece, Mallory, he’s been trying. He goes to parent/teacher events, and he makes packed lunches, so he definitely didn’t mean to forget about Christmas. He just hasn’t celebrated it since he left home under a cloud years ago.

Put on the spot, Jason makes the snap decision to take Mallory to see where he and her father spent their Christmases as kids. The last thing he expects is to run into Tommy, his ex—ex-best friend, ex-boyfriend—who is still living in town… and working as a sheriff’s deputy.

It’s hard to avoid someone in a small town—and maybe Jason doesn’t want to. He got Mallory a Christmas, and maybe now it’s time to get himself a Christmas boyfriend. But first, he owes Tommy some explanations.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-313-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Jason left his home and went to California when he turned eighteen. His home life was not all that hot and with his dad’s mean streak he just couldn’t stay home. It meant he left the man he loved behind. Then eight months ago, his brother and sister in law were killed, and now he was raising their daughter. He just wanted something to go right. Deciding to go back to his home town was the only thing he could think of when he remembered he forgot Christmas. He wanted to give Mallory something nice. It had not turned out the way he thought.

Tommy comes to his ex’s rescue when he sees their car in the ditch. Then he ends up offering them a place to stay for Christmas. Even still a bit upset with the way things had ended, he decided it was time. Now if only they could see what was standing in front of them.

Old friends and lovers, brought back together in the future. A smart ass kid that I am not sure about. It is a short story that had a lot of detail and depth to it. I love the old town nestled in snow, especially around Christmas time. The kids sounded more like seventeen then ten. Her words and reaction just seemed off. Also the guys just seemed to make the same tone to their language. Then there was the fact that Jason never really gave Tom the answers he would have needed. It went from angst to love to fast for me, even if it is the holidays. For such a short story there were to many feelings floating around, and just didn’t make a Christmas story sound right. The ending was abrupt and even more off.

I am sorry to say but this story just didn’t flow right for me.

A Holiday Crush by CJane Elliott

Title: A Holiday Crush

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: CJane Elliott

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 27, 2017)

Length: Short Story (50 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: San Francisco lawyer Brad Halberstam is in a rut. At forty-one, he’s successful but alone. Even his holidays are predictable—he spends every Christmas golfing in Napa with his ex-boyfriend. Then attractive but oh-so-young filmmaker Michael Blair invites him out. Brad joins Michael and his housemates in their holiday celebrations and learns that life can be joyful. He hesitates to saddle Michael with a much-older boyfriend but as their attraction ignites, Brad’s tempted to let Michael sweep him into a bright new future.

Michael lives in a group house in Berkeley. He loves making life into a celebration, especially during the holidays. Michael longs for a partner, and he hopes serious but sweet Brad Halberstam is the one. Michael’s infatuation grows over caroling and cookies, but his housemate reminds him that Michael always latches on to someone during the holidays, so he won’t be alone. After a misunderstanding, Michael loses heart, no longer sure if his relationship with Brad is real or just another Christmas crush.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-312-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Brad was a successful lawyer in San Francisco but not successful in his love life. His relationship with his parents are not the best, so every Christmas he goes with friends to Napa. He needs a new life it would seem. He sets his eyes on a very sexy young man who is filming the court case but isn’t to sure about what to do. Michael takes the choice out of his hands.

I got a kick out of this story and would love to read more about them. Although I could have done with out the political stuff involved in it, the message was received. It just made the Christmas tone a little set back and made if focus on the hate for those in politic’s. Although I do agree all the way, I would have wished the story to be just a bit more about them. Other than that issue, this story rocks.

I would definitely recommend it.

The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain by Ava Hayden

Title: The Billionaire’s Boxing Day Bargain

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Ava Hayden

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 26, 2017)

Length: Short Story (42 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Milo is too nice to say no when the desperate call goes out for more staff to work Boxing Day at Eden Consumer Electronics. It’s just until they sell the door-crasher specials, but it means he can’t see his billionaire boyfriend Lance until later that day.

Lance spends December 25 jetting back from a business trip, eager to see Milo. He calls as soon as his flight lands Boxing Day morning, only to find out that seven hundred and thirty televisions are cock-blocking him.

What’s the point of being a billionaire if you can’t spend your way around obstacles? Milo doesn’t want Lance solving his problems with cash, but he’ll never find out because Lance’s efficient personal assistant, William, is on the case. Unfortunately, even billionaires are subject to the law of unintended consequences—and these aren’t the kind Lance can buy his way out of.

Will Lance and Milo have their Boxing Day date? Or have Lance’s pushy billionaire ways finally gone too far?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-311-4

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Milo wanted to spend Christmas with his boyfriend, but instead he offered to help his boss at work. Or should I say Boxing Day, which I have no clue what that is (*snigger* It’s the day after Xmas, we Brits celebrate it ~Pixie~). He has quite a bit to sell but too bad no one was shopping at his particular store. Lance is a billionaire with a hot boyfriend. A boyfriend that has to work. So Lance and his best friend William, decide to help Milo in a very intriguing way.

This is a very cute little story that was a blast to read. It switches from present time to when they had met, which at first is a little off. However once I figured out what was going on, not so bad. I hate to admit that even though this was a blast to read, it really didn’t come off all that Christmas type of story.

It is a fun story and perfect for when you need that quick burst of sexy into your day. I would recommend it.

Homemade from the Heart by Bru Baker

Title: Homemade from the Heart

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Bru Baker

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 25, 2017)

Length: Short Story (55 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Craft store owner Grant has always been a sucker for a pretty face, and that goes double for a pretty face with an adorable sidekick. When seven-year-old Aubrey has her heart set on taking Grant’s already-full holiday craft series, he caves and gives up his one day off a week so she (and her hot guardian, Josh) can take private lessons. Their flirting ramps up week after week, and even though Josh isn’t with Aubrey’s mother, Grant can’t be sure the man isn’t straight. Maybe he’s just being friendly. And Josh, who most definitely is not straight, is afraid of being the creepy guy hitting on the teacher.

Frustrated by their stubbornness and cluelessness, Aubrey takes matters into her own hands. She decides the best gift to give Josh is something homemade and from the heart—a boyfriend they’ll both love.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-310-7

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Grant owns Make and Take craft store. He pretty much works every day except for Sunday. Sunday is his day with his friends. That is until he promises a sexy man and a cute seen year old to help them make some gifts for Christmas. To bad the man is straight. Josh is definitely not straight, and his eye is on Grant. He just needs the help of a little girl who is match making to get them going.

This was a pretty good short story. It was fully developed and so much detail that I was quite shocked at how short it was. It was also real charming. I loved the characters and lets just say Aubrey was a hit. She might be seven, but damn she acts so much older. She sure did set them up. It also made me want to do a little bit of crafting.

I had a lot of fun reading this and can guarantee that you will too.

Candy Canes and Cappuccinos by Elizabeth Coldwell

Title: Candy Canes and Cappuccinos

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Elizabeth Coldwell

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 24, 2017)

Length: Short Story (436 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: Kyle is struggling to run his coffee shop on his own after his partner walked out on him. He has his eye on Steven, who comes into the shop each day, but hasn’t worked up the nerve to express his interest. When Steven asks Kyle to help out with Christmas lunch at the homeless shelter where he works, Kyle is too exhausted to agree. He donates his tips but still feels he’s blown his chances with Steven and made himself look like a selfish jerk.

On Christmas Day, Kyle sees a way to make amends—to both Steven and the needy people depending on his kindness. It’s the right thing to do, and Kyle hopes he can clear up the misunderstanding and show Steven the type of man he really is. Maybe then they can consider some dessert when the lunch at the shelter is over….

ISBN: 978-1-64080-309-1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Kyle and his ex purchased a coffee shop that had been going well. It is going way better now that the ex is out of the picture. However there is a sexy young man that comes into the shop that Kyle has his eye on. When Stephen asks if he would help out at the shelter, well Kyle just wanted to rest. However things might, well your going to have to read it.

It is a very cute little story, perfect for when your taking a break. It just gives you a taste of something good. I do hope this author turns this into a longer story with a bit more to it.

It is a really sweet story that will make you smile.

A Gift of Family by Tami Veludura

Title: A Gift of Family

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Tami Veldura

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 23, 2017)

Length: Short Story (32 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Scott Burke has always desired a big family, but as a divorced single dad, all he has is his young daughter, Lexi. He pours himself into raising her, half-convinced he’ll never find what he’s looking for. When Brennan Price strolls into Scott’s life, he’d better have enough patience for both Lexi and Scott if he intends to stick around.

Brennan has a huge family and a successful career, but no one to call his own. Wooing Scott and his daughter is right up his alley, though, and he steps up to the challenge to prove he’s enough for both of them. His attraction to Scott is immediate, but he recognizes a family man when he sees one and hatches a plan to win Lexi over. Her handsome father is sure to follow….

ISBN: 978-1-64080-308-4

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Single father Scott was raising his beautiful daughter pretty good. Then he meets a sexy man and his dog and the heat turned on. Brennan saw Scott a few days prior, but noticed the kid and knew he had to come up with a plan. He was going to use his dog to win over the sexy single father and his daughter.

Ok first off, how did he figure out that Scott was a single dad was one question I was trying to figure out. Then there is one date, one night of sex and they were ready for the whole package. Now maybe it works that way in real life, but I doubt it. Although it does make for a great Christmas wish. Other than that the characters were quite enjoyable, sweet and charming. The little girl was a cutie pie, and the dog rocked.

I liked the story quite a bit and it made for a nice little read.

The Holly Groweth Green by Amy Rae Durreson

Title: The Holly Groweth Green

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Amy Rae Durreson

Genre: Christmas, High Fantasy

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 22, 2017)

Length: Short Story (55 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: When wounded doctor Laurence Payne is stranded in the snowy English countryside on Christmas Eve, 1946, he is surprised to stumble upon Mistle Cottage and its mysterious inhabitant. Avery claims to be an Elizabethan wizard, and Laurence struggles to explain away the atmosphere of the cottage as mere coincidence and trickery. He spends a magical twelve days of Christmas celebrating with Avery, but then wakes to find his lover has vanished and the cottage has fallen to ruin overnight.

Laurence’s investigations lead him to the story of an ancient fairy curse—Avery is doomed to spend only Christmas Eve to Twelfth Night in human form until he finds true love. Laurence sets out to give Avery the greatest gift of all—his heart and with it the chance to live for more than the fleeting winter weeks he’s been sentenced to.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-307-7

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Laurence was a doctor in the war, till an injury took him out of it. Here he was left with not much to do. On the way to London, he is stranded when the train had to stop do to a heavy snowstorm. He finds himself at a cabin where a sexy stranger invited him in. Avery is a magical young man who has been punished for something that happened in the past. Only true love will fix it.

It is a very charming Christmas story. I am not a fan of historical romances so I am afraid that this wasn’t one of my favorite stories. Although for such a short story it has a lot of detail and meat to it. It is a very enjoyable read and the characters are quite sweet. It is a great read for the holidays.

I would recommend it.

The Last Gift by Chrissy Munder

Title: The Last Gift

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Chrissy Munder

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 21, 2017)

Length: Short Story (48 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: College student Nick Reed works late shift at a convenience store and dreams of graduation, a job he can be proud of, and finding the man of his dreams.

But the man of his dreams is about to find him.

A change in his lab hours forces Nick to swap shifts with a coworker. But no one prepared Nick for Mr. 5:25—Aaron Hampton—a beefy blond who’s Nick’s perfect guy, but professionally and socially out of Nick’s reach. Soon Aaron becomes the highlight of Nick’s workday, and when the overly focused lawyer needs Nick’s help with holiday gifts, Nick is eager to spend time with Aaron.

They become friends, share book recommendations, and are surprised to find themselves at the same charity run. But is that all? When Aaron learns Nick is heading back to his old shift, will he find the courage to ask for one last, very special gift?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-306-0

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Damn I don’t remember being a college student, but Nick is a definite achiever. He not only goes to school but works two jobs and does extra courses on line. I wonder where he finds the time to sleep. He switched to the late shift for a coworker, that shows him a sexy man who comes in at the same time every morning. Aaron has a pretty cool secret to tell Nick.

This was a cute story about how much a guy did to show his interest. I got a kick out of it and could see myself reading more by this author. She sure surprised me with this one. It is a short story that had so much to it, that it could have been a longer story.

It was interesting and a lot of fun. I would definitely recommend this book.

Wreck the Halls by Jessica Payseur

Title: Wreck the Halls

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Jessica Payseur

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 20, 2017)

Length: Short Story

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4.5 Hearts

Blurb: Business has been good at Paul’s Café in Madison, Wisconsin—until a few months before Christmas. When Nick opens Nick’s Restaurant next door, Paul watches his customers leave for cheaper food and an owner who smiles more. With his livelihood at stake, Paul lashes out, trying to drive away Nick’s customers, but Nick won’t go easy, and escalating sabotage threatens to ruin the holidays for both of them.

Paul thinks all he wants for Christmas is to see Nick’s Restaurant go under, but the more he tries to drive Nick away, the less he’s sure he wants him to go. Nick is everything Paul secretly craves, but by the time he realizes Nick is all he really wants for the holidays, he might have ruined any chance for them to get together. And there might not be a present in the world that can fix that.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-305-3

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Paul’s cafe has been doing pretty good until Nick’s Restaurant opened up next door. Now Paul started this little feud with him but damn if Nick is going to let it go. However when it starts to get real, well the guys started to feel bad. There is deeper attraction going on and things start to chage real fast.

This was a blast to read and funny as hell. These two sure are perfect for each other. They both have a competitive attitude and both are attracted to each other. I wasn’t to sure about the Christmas part of it, but it soon gave me what I wanted to see.

I would definitely read this again. I would also recommend it and hope that the author gives us more of these two guys.

All Creatures Great and Small by Kasper Quill

Title: All Creatures Great and Small

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Kasper Quill

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 19, 2017)

Length: Short Story (34 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Growing up an orphan meant Charlie never celebrated Christmas. He’s committed to making sure his newly adopted cat, Max, doesn’t miss out like he did. Unfortunately, he discovers that giving Max the perfect Christmas might be easier said than done—and not without risk.

Charlie’s landlord, successful and wealthy real estate developer Aemon Scotfield, is charmed by the gorgeous redhead and his shameless alley cat. He finds himself compelled to help orchestrate a memorable celebration for Max—and Charlie—despite the mishaps that seem to just keep coming. As difficult as it will be to pull off the perfect holiday, the real challenge might be walking away when it’s over.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-304-6

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Charlie couldn’t remember celebrating Christmas after his parents passed away when he was a small child. Growing up in foster care it just seemed no one really gave a damn. Now as an adult, he still hadn’t had a Christmas yet. That all changes when Max runs out in front of him and he ends up meeting a sexy man. That sexy man who just so happens to own his apartment complex.

When Aemon finds out about Charlie’s past and the fact that he took in a homeless cat named Max, well Aemon decided to give them a Christmas to remember.

I really got a kick out of this one. Although I don’t know where he came across all these animals. It was such a sweet and cute little story that seem like it was so much more. It had so much in it, details and depth. This is probably one of my favorite Christmas stories ever. I will definitely be putting this in my every Christmas story list. I think I have came across a new author for me to read.

Trading Tridents by C.M. Taylor

Title: Trading Tridents

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: C.M. Taylor

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 18, 2017)

Length: Short Story (32 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts

Blurb: DecemberCon 2017. John Perlan, aka YouTuber “SmileyNibor,” has come to the con for one reason and one reason only: to see his idol, actor Derek Kitow. And since Derek has announced he’ll be dressed as the original Aquaman, Perlan decides to come as the Aquaman reboot. It helps that he already has the beard and the bod to make a convincing Momoaman.

But when Derek Kitow makes his entrance, he recognizes Perlan from his tiny YouTube channel and wants him onstage! Has Kitow been following him online? Could SmileyNibor’s hero also be a fan? And what exactly does Kitow have in mind by inviting Perlan to meet him after the panel?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-303-9

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: John came to the DecemberCon with his friends for only one reason. He just wanted to see his heartthrob. He had always had a crush on the actor, but never knew the actor would be into him. So when Derek told everyone he would show up in the original Aquaman costume, well John had to also. Then Derek shows just how much he does see John.

This story felt a bit off to me. I have never been into Con’s or people that go to them, so I never saw the thrill of them. It seems like a lot of talking, meeting and then hot sex. There was not really any holiday stuff involved with this book. So it just felt completely off and wrong for this calendar. Other than that, it is a nice story but not much for me to get more than a taste.

Welcome Home, Soldier by Deanna Wadsworth

Title: Welcome Home, Soldier

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Deanna Wadsworth

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 17, 2017)

Length: Short Story (76 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Clay and Daniel fell in love as enlisted men during Desert Shield, but Don’t Ask Don’t Tell meant they had to keep it secret. After Clay’s convoy was ambushed, PTSD changed him, and their relationship ended in a horrible fight on Christmas Eve.

Twenty-five years later, they’ve reconnected on Facebook, and Clay finds out Daniel will be alone on Christmas Eve. Impulsively, he sets out for Daniel’s hometown of Gilead, Ohio—where Daniel is now the mayor—to surprise him with a visit. But a blizzard strikes and Clay wrecks his car. All hope of seeing Daniel is lost—until a mysterious old man named Nick offers Clay a ride. The weight of past wounds and the scars of war might make their reunion awkward, but Clay is willing to take the risk to win back his lost love. Despite a lifetime of disappointing holidays, Clay hopes that this soldier is finally coming home for Christmas.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-302-2

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Clay and Daniel met in the military and also fell in love. Daniel had a wonderful home life in a great town that he bragged about. Where as Clay had been abandoned by his mother. He had lost so much in such a short time. When Clay wanted more, Daniel said no. Now twenty-five years later, Clay is going to surprise him big time. He is going to go see him and hope for the future.

It is a very cute little story. It is a nice surprise and I enjoyed it. For such a short story it had a lot of depth to it. I really like Clay quite a bit, Daniel not so much. I also liked the Santa Claus angle. It didn’t make my heart beat fast but it was a good story.

I liked it and would recommend it.

An Unexpected Sanctuary by Cassie Decker

Title: An Unexpected Sanctuary

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Cassie Decker

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary, Science Fiction

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 16, 2017)

Length: Short Story (33 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: An aggressive super-flu pandemic wipes out a majority of the population over the course of one Christmas holiday—and brings Tobin and Kyle together. For almost a year, they’ve been trekking across the country from Colorado toward a sanctuary in upstate New York. Kyle’s survival skills have kept them alive, and Tobin wants to repay the man he loves with a very special gift of his own making. He sneaks off in search of the last few pieces… only to get himself and Kyle kidnapped by a desperate stranger. With their journey to New York on hold—possibly indefinitely—they’ll need to accept that home isn’t always defined by a place as much as the person you’re with.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-301-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Well one never expects to wake up on Christmas and find almost everyone dead from a very aggressive super flu. Tobin and Kyle made it. Kyle had in fact saved Tobin’s life one night, and they have been together ever since. They decided to go to New York where a sanctuary is set up. To bad they hadn’t expected to get kidnapped. They soon realize home is where your loved one is.

When I first read the blurb for this I wasn’t really to sure how it was going to turn out. Especially for the Christmas season. I admit I was kind of expecting zombies. It is two young men trying to survive. It turned out to be a blast to read and I really enjoyed it. I loved how their kidnapping turned out. It would seem the kidnapper was just about as crazy as they were. It was a sweet story that intrigued me quite a bit.

I had a blast reading it and can guarantee that you will too.

Christmas Grace by C.L. Miles

Title: Christmas Grace

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: C.L. Miles

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 15, 2017)

Length: Short Story (53 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 5 Hearts

Blurb: Christmas has been a lonely time of year for Aaron since losing his family fifteen years ago. But now he’s seeing Craig, and though Aaron is sure they belong together, both have been hurt in the past, so they’re taking things slowly. So far, Craig has been supportive of Aaron’s struggles with anxiety—struggles that cost Aaron relationships in the past.

On Christmas Eve, Aaron is closing his bookshop when Craig surprises him with a specially planned evening. Will this be the night they take that final step and deepen their physical relationship? Aaron hopes so, but things aren’t that simple. Craig has been keeping a secret…. Can Aaron take his place as part of a family again and accept the love he’s missed for so long—or will he find that some deceptions are too big to be forgiven, even with the help of some Christmas grace?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-300-8

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Aaron is the type that needs to think things through and then make up his mind. He would go into a panic attack sometimes at certain things. He was in love with Craig, but Craig was holding something back from him. He had never even seen Craig’s place, but that is about to change. Now he is about to find out what Craig has been hiding from him. His life is about to get changed real fast.

This is a very cute little story that will draw you in and keep your attention. The guys are not only sexy but so damn sweet. I liked the surprises that was in it, although I think Aaron might just have another panic attack. It is a very entertaining tale of love. I had a blast reading it and wil hope to read more about these two in the future. I think I have found an author to watch out for.

I would definitely recommend this book.

A Timely Gift by Kris T. Bethke

Title: A Timely Gift

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: Kris T. Bethke

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 14, 2017)

Length: Short Story (39 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 4 Hearts

Blurb: Sometimes the right gift can be life-changing….

On the solstice, Rory’s grandfather gives him a pocket watch that he claims will have Rory’s life sorted and his problems solved by Christmas. Rory starts out skeptical, but when he reconnects with an ex he never thought he’d see again, he has to admit there might be some holiday magic working after all.

Deacon’s life is in shambles, and he’s returned to Syracuse for a fresh start. Running into Rory again feels like much more than a coincidence, and neither of them can deny the passion between them is still smoldering. With the watch behaving oddly at just the right moments, Rory and Deacon might receive the gift of a lifetime—if they’re willing to accept it.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-299-5

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Rory’s grandfather is a very sweet old man. He has decided that Rory needs to start a family. He wants Rory to find the man of his dreams. Rory’s grandfather gave him an old pocket watch that would help him get his life settled. So when his ex shows up, well things heat up. Deacon has lost quite a bit in his life and has came home to start over. When he ran into Rory things look up for him. Gramps is going to get a big head.

This is a sad little story but it has a great ending. I love his grandfather and his way of helping. Although I still have no clue what they were celebrating, it seemed like a lot of fun. I enjoyed reading it although I will admit that it comes off a bit slow paced to me.

It was still fun and I would definitely recommend it.

The Probability of Mistletoe by E.J. Russell

Title: The Probability of Mistletoe

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: E.J. Russell

Genre: Christmas, Contemporary

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 13, 2017)

Length: Short Story (43 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts

Blurb: When software engineer Keith Trainor decides to start his own company, he knows exactly who he wants as his partner: Parker Mulvaney, his best friend from high school. But in the ten years since graduation, their contact has dwindled to nothing, and it’s all Keith’s fault. If he hadn’t tried to kiss Parker under the mistletoe at the winter formal their senior year, Parker wouldn’t have bolted. At their ten-year reunion, Keith intends to do everything in his geeky power to make amends.

Parker should have known that scheduling the reunion the day before Christmas Eve was a recipe for a headache of monster proportions. But when Keith sends a text that he’ll be attending, the evening doesn’t look so bleak. Can an unnecessary makeover, a nostalgic breakfast, an abortive shopping trip, and a whole lot of mistletoe culminate in a long-overdue first kiss?

ISBN: 978-1-64080-302-2

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: In high school Parker ran from a kiss. Even though he wanted Keith, he ran. Now ten years later, a the high school reunion, it is up to Parker to fix it.

It is a sweet loves story that was just a bit off. It just gives you a taste of what could happen, but stops before it does. At least we know the guys get together, but it still came out a bit flat. Other than that it was a nice little story to read. Good for when you are taking a break. Although I have never had a class reunion happen around Christmas.

Poison Marked by T.J. Nichols

Title: Poison Marked

Series: 2017 Advent Calendar Daily- Stocking Stuffers

Author: T.J. Nichols

Genre: Solstice, Fantasy 

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press (December 12, 2017)

Length: Short Story (57 Pages)

Heat Level: Low

Heart Rating: ♥♥ 2 Hearts

Blurb: Kill his lover or disobey his king and instigate civil war?

As the feared court poison master, Nikko is sworn to do as his king bids. As the lover of the king’s nephew, Lord Rodas, Nikko must hide his affection or risk being labeled a traitor and punished. A former thief who clawed his way into the palace from the filthy streets, Nikko longs to be deserving of Rodas’s love.

A respected war hero, Rodas is in a delicate political situation. He is not the kingdom’s natural heir, though many support his claim over the wastrel, Prince Fortin. The last thing Rodas wants is war. His highest ambition is for Nikko to openly wear the jewels he’s bestowed on him as a public declaration of their love.

Neither man is prepared for the king to order Nikko to poison Rodas during the solstice feast or for the deadly intrigue they’re plunged into, which exposes their affair and rocks the foundations of the kingdom.

ISBN: 978-1-64080-297.1

Product Link: Dreamspinner Press

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: A thief turned poison master falls in love with the kings nephew. He knew that if it came about he would be in deep shit, so he hid it. Then the king told him to kill Rodas. Where as Rodas was suppose to marry someone with linage, but his love was with Nikko.

I do not even know where to begin with this book. It was not the right choice for a Christmas story at all. There was nothing Christmas about it. Just betrayal, poison, murder and well you get the picture. To top it off, the warrior would still have to marry a female and get her pregnant. Thank god that part was left out.

Even though it is a short story, the author did make it seem longer. For me if this book was actually longer and more to it, it would have turned out better. Although I am afraid that even with that potential, to me it just failed all the way around. I am sorry but this story definitely was not for me.