Tag: Holiday Novella

Christmas Kitsch by Amy Lane ~ Audiobook

51c15K8pj6L._AA300_Title: Christmas Kitsch
Series: N/A
Author: Amy Lane
Narrator: Nick J. Russo
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: 6 hours and 17 minutes
Publisher: Riptide Publishing (December 8, 2015)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Sometimes the best thing you can get for Christmas is knowing what you really want.

Rusty Baker is a blond, rich, entitled football player in a high school full of them – just the type of oblivious jock all the bullied kids hate. And he might have stayed that way except he develops a friendship with out-and-proud Oliver Campbell from the wrong side of the tracks. Rusty thinks the friendship is just pity – Oliver is very bright, and Rusty is very not – but then Oliver kisses him good-bye when Rusty leaves for college, and Rusty is forced to rethink everything he knows about himself.

But even Rusty’s newfound awareness can’t help him survive a semester at Berkeley. He returns home for Thanksgiving break clinging to the one thing he knows to be true: Oliver Campbell is the best thing that’s ever happened to him.

Rusty’s parents disagree, and Rusty finds himself homeless for the holidays. Oliver may not have much money, but he’s got something Rusty has never known: true family.

With their help and Oliver’s love, Rusty comes to realize that he may have failed college, but he’ll pass real life with flying rainbow colors.

Product Link: http://amzn.to/1SoWsVd

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I had not had the chance to read this story so when I was given the audible I wasn’t sure what to expect from it. I have never really been into teenagers finding love so it was a bit different to me. However I realized that Christmas Kitsch is probably one of my favorite love stories from this side. I also never realized how much I want to just knock some sense into Rusty’s parents.

Nick brought these boys and their families alive for me and I was fascinated by it. He gave them each a distinctive tone that you can tell who each character is and I loved it. It made me want to listen to it more than just once and that was a big hit for me. It was told with a flair that had me wanting more. He made Rusty’s voice perfect. You can feel everything Rusty is feeling while telling his story.

Rusty is a sweet kid who wasn’t like many other rich kids you come across. He might be spoiled in some ways but it didn’t change him into one of those types. He definitely has a lot of heart but he doesn’t really come off as brainless as he thinks. He might just be a bit slow picking up some things. When Oliver starts school he takes him under his wing and helps him. As Oliver is helping him with his school work.

When he realizes that there is more than just friendship he is about shocked. Here he was sleeping with girls and he is attracted to Oliver. One kiss right before Thanksgivings gets him kicked out of his home. Oliver’s family takes him in and shows him how a family should be.

Oliver is a cute little Hispanic boy who is very out and proud. He shows up at school and takes one look at Rusty. These two hit it off, even when the homophobic asshats around them are well asses. These two start a friendship that is strong and turns into something more. Rusty’s only support from his family is his little sister, whereas Oliver’s family is very warm and friendly. I love how you can see the difference and wish that it was more out in the world. Nick definitely did a number with this story. He made me fall in love even more.

I think my favorite moment for this story was their first kiss. So sweet and tender, Rusty is confused but turned on. He doesn’t react like one would think from a guy who didn’t know he liked other guys. He is definitely Oliver’s. The second would be how Oliver and his father were going to come down and kidnap Rusty when Rusty wasn’t doing well at school. It showed me another side to a parent who stands by their family.

I want Oliver’s’ family that is for sure. The story was perfectly pitched although I wish it was told a bit faster for me. I want to get to the sexy parts, so that was just me. It had the right amount of feelings in it that made it more entertaining. The story itself was perfect and there was so much detail that it had me feeling like I was right there with them. Although I did look a bit strange with my pissed off look about Rusty’s parents.

This was the perfect Christmas story and I look forward to not only reading more by this author but listening to her stories.

I would definitely recommend this book to others. It was a hit with me.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Christmas and Gingerbread Men by Liza Kay

4977christmasandgingerbreadmen510web-430x645Title: Christmas and Gingerbread Men
Series: Sweet Snacks, #3
Author: Liza Kay
Genre: Contemporary/ Holiday
Length: 95 Pages
Publisher: Extasy Books (December 22, 2015)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5 Hearts
Blurb: Sometimes, gingerbread men and a hot lover are the best Christmas presents.

Pitney Winters is sure he’ll never find a proper boyfriend. He owns a mirror and knows he’s neither a handsome stud nor a cute twink. When an ex ****-buddy visits Pitney at work, a handsome man interrupts their argument and saves Pitney’s skinny ass. Pitney can’t believe his luck when the epitome of hunky maleness asks him out on a date.

Rafael Bell has ogled Pitney before while eating at the restaurant where the lad works. Smitten with the younger man, Rafael carefully woos the shy guy in the weeks leading to Christmas. He longs to win Pitney’s trust and love and to convince him that he’s worthy to be loved despite his hang-ups.

Pitney, who’s still in the closet, realizes that he needs to trust not only Rafael, but his family as well, if he wants a Merry Christmas.
If you love a big alpha male with a sexy secret, a not-so-perfect hero struggling through life, and gingerbread men, don’t miss this sweet Christmas Story.

ISBN: 978-1-4874-0538-0

Product Link: http://www.extasybooks.com/Christmas-And-Gingerbread-Men/

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: Each book in the Sweet Snacks collection features a different romantic couple. They can however be read as a standalone.

Pitney is a shy young man who self-esteem is very low. His one relationship, which wasn’t a real relationship, left him a bit scared. So when Rafe saves him from his ex he is blown away. He had been staring at this gorgeous man since he started coming to the restaurant. Not only that but it looks like Rafe is way interested in him. So things are about to heat up.

This is the first story by Liza that I have read and I have to tell you that I will be reading more of her stories. There is just something about them that calls to you and has you spell bound. Each man has issues it seems with their sexuality but together they are determined to be together.

This is a short and very sweet little love story that I had a lot of fun reading. I would love to hear more about them in the future. The story line was perfect and the characters were well written and fully developed.

This was a blast and I would definitely recommend it.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Oh My Deer by Saloni Quinby

81ul0dM5o7L._SL1400_Title: Oh My Deer
Series: Peppermint Twist, #5
Author: Saloni Quinby
Genre: Holiday/Paranormal/ Urban Fantasy
Length: Short (43 Pages)
Publisher: Changeling Press (November 28th 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥ 3 Hearts
Blurb: When Jake rescues a wounded reindeer less than two weeks before Christmas, he doesn’t realize he has found one of Santa’s reindeer-shifters.

The adorable shifter is willing to show his gratitude in sexy ways Jake never expected, but once he flies away will he be gone forever, or will he return as promised on Christmas day?

ISBN: 07212-202324

Product Link: https://www.changelingpress.com/product.php?&upt=book&ubid=2324

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: I love these little Christmas stories. They are so damn hot and kinky. I don’t think that was how Santa was supposed to be like and never heard of reindeer shifters, but damn it was hot.

Jake thought it was just an animal he was hunting, then he goes to help him and it turns out to be a shifter. Fleet was one hell of a sexy man and Jake wasn’t sure what to believe. But seeing is believing.

It was a hot little story and I had a blast with it. I truly enjoyed it. It is a funny little story that will capture your attention and rake up you lust quite a bit.

I would definitely recommend this book, except for it is way too short. I wished that it was expanded more and gave me just more than a taste.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Letters from Cupid by Ari McKay

1c216b5f0d614b6dc623bf7afe80e44d3eae37b3Title: Letters from Cupid
Series:
Author: Ari McKay
Genre: Contemporary/Valentine’s
Length: Novella (81 pages)
Publisher: Torquere Press Publishers (4 Feb 2015)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: Breaking up with his boyfriend has left English Professor Derek Chandler feeling lonely and down. He begins to think that he just doesn’t have the passion to sustain a long-term relationship — at least until a letter from a mysterious “Cupid” tells him not to lose hope. Intrigued, Derek replies to his anonymous admirer, and they begin a correspondence where Derek discovers he isn’t the only one with doubts about his desirability.

Dr. Macon Pinney has admired his colleague from afar for quite a while, but he only intended his initial note to Derek to offer encouragement. Macon doesn’t believe that outgoing, sociable Derek could ever be interested in the type of quiet, withdrawn man he knows himself to be. Yet when Derek writes back, admitting his worries about never finding a true partner, Macon can’t help but reply, sharing his own feelings from the safety of anonymity.

But will Macon find the courage to step out of the shadows and admit to Derek his identity, or will both men spend the most romantic day of the year alone?

ISBN: 978-1-61040-877-6

Product Link: http://www.torquerebooks.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&products_id=4353

Reviewer: Prime

Review: This is an incredibly sweet and an incredibly cute story, although for any postgraduates or academics that are single this Valentines, it might hit a bit close to home.
But it is fun. What this essentially is two men – both academics, at least one is a professor – getting to know each other through anonymous notes. Not exactly, something you hear about often these days and this is what adds to the charm of the story.

Macon is a post-doctoral academic and he is painfully shy despite being a brilliant teacher. He is quick to see kindness but as he puts it, he’s “almost a hermit”. However, he is lonely and uncertain of how to approach people, let alone the man that he is attracted. Macon shares his office with Professor Derek Chandler. He’s a bit down in the dumps because of a recent breakup and with Valentine’s Day approaching, he realises just how lonely he feels.

I’ll suspend my disbelief that these guys who have shared an office space for approximately two years are only just getting to know each other because I know myself and my office mates could not be like that. Then again, I realise that this is meant to demonstrate how socially awkward Macon is.

This is a fun, quick and charming read and purely for the romance.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Checking Him Out for the Holidays by Debbie McGowan

91voXSsMv4L._SL1500_Title: Checking Him Out For the Holidays
Series: Checking Him Out
Author: Debbie McGowan
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (75 pages)
Publisher: Beaten Track Publishing (December 21st, 2014)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Freelance engineer Sol Brooks doesn’t do the festive season. He thinks it’s boring and overly sentimental. With the rest of the household laid up with ‘the flu’, Sol’s planned to use the time to crack on with some work.

His mother, however, has other ideas.

And so does Sol’s husband, Adam.

A stand-alone holiday special featuring Sol and Adam from Checking Him Out.

ISBN: 978-1-910635-25-4

Product Link: http://www.beatentrackpublishing.com/?n1=publications&id=137

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Even though this is marketed as a standalone holiday sequel to Checking Him Out, it would probably be best to read book one. The background in the first book really does help explain Adam’s behaviour while he is sick in this one.

This is a quite charming story of a couple trying to get their separate beliefs together for the holiday seas. Sol is Jewish and Adam is Christian. They’ve been together for a while now, they’re also married and life is good since they have relocated to England.

We also learn a lot more about their families, particularly Adam’s brother Noah and friend/ex-boyfriend Matty. In fact, Matty is a sweetheart and I want to hug him and make it all better. Actually, I wouldn’t mind learning more about Noah and Matty.

I think this book actually makes me think on Checking Him Out in a much better light. This one has a fairly simple plot and a few sick family members (and a bitchy move from Sol’s sister). It’s easy enough to enjoy and easy enough to understand the insanity of families.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

When Love Flue In by Lillian Francis, 2nd edition

whenlovefluein_exlarge_PNG-210x336Title: When Love Flue In, 2nd edition
Series: Sexy Snax
Author: Lillian Francis
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (91 pages)
Publisher: Totally Bound (December 4th, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: A soot-haired chimney sweep, an exploding flue and an uncooked turkey. It’s an unholy trinity that may make all of Dominic’s Christmas wishes come true.

Dominic is celebrating his first Christmas since his divorce, and although he’s spending it on his own, he’s determined to have a traditional Christmas morning, including a roaring fire. Unfortunately, Dominic’s chimney is blocked, which is why Reagan, a soot-haired chimney sweep, is head and shoulders up Dominic’s flue. Dominic is just lucky the man had a cancellation on Christmas Eve.

Unable to take his eyes off Reagan’s low-slung jeans and enticing arse while Reagan sets about the hearth with rods and brushes, Dominic knows five years is a long time to be obsessed with the man who sweeps his chimney every Christmas. This year there’s nothing to stop Dominic from acting on his desires—except his own insecurities.

An exploding flue provides the opportunity for more than just polite conversation and could be the catalyst for a perfect Christmas. But Dominic will need to stop hiding who he really is before a special sweep can light a fire in his heart.

ISBN: 978-1-78430-312-9

Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/when-love-flue-in

Reviewer: Prime

Review: This is a sexy and sweet Christmas story. Although I have to admit that the idea of calling in a chimney sweet is a positively Victorian idea, doesn’t help that the story is set in England. Hell, even my phrasing just now was Victorian. Luckily, I didn’t go as far as Mary Poppins and allow this to turn me off from the story.

This is more of an encounter or a fantasy that happens to have a happily ever after. Dare I say it, but this is more of a hot Christmas romp while one of the main characters gets his mind and his life together. Dominic is newly divorced after his wife left him for fantasizing about another man.

This bit of plot is saved by the fact that Dominic actually says something to the effect of his wife using his attraction to another man as an excuse. The object of his affection is the man that he only sees once a year, the chimney sweep who cleans his flue pipes, Reagan. One cold and snow filled Christmas Day, as well as Dominic drinking on Christmas Eve after Reagan came for his job, gives the couple a chance at a very hot time together.

This story is all about the encounter between Dominic and Reagan. I like to think that we are given hope for a happily ever after. This enjoyable, quick read has been well written. Being that this is short and that it is more about the moment, there isn’t much more to the characters than at face value.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Knitting a Broken Heart Back Together by Ari McKay

81OSiYDxocL._SL1500_Title: Knitting a Broken Heart Back Together
Series: N/A
Author: Ari McKay
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (111 Pages)
Publisher: Torquere Press (December 16th, 2014)
Heat Level: Low/Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥ 3.5 Hearts
Reviewer: Aerin
Blurb: When a Christmas shopping expedition brings Tomy Peralta into Jason Winters’ yarn store, both men feel an immediate, and intense spark of attraction, but dance instructor Tomy intends to propose to his boyfriend Sean at Christmas. Unfortunately for Tomy, marriage isn’t on career-minded Sean’s agenda. Heartbroken, Tomy throws himself into his work until his mother convinces him that learning to knit might help take his mind off his failed romance.

Jason falls hard for Tomy, but he knows Tomy needs time to heal and to trust in love again. As Jason teaches Tomy how to knit, Tomy teaches him how to dance in return to prepare for his sister’s wedding. Just when it seems Tomy is ready for a new romance, Sean shows up, wanting Tomy back.

Has Jason helped Tomy knit his heart together again, only for Tomy to give it to Sean once more, or will Tomy finally see Sean for what he truly is?

ISBN: B00R4C2MN0

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Knitting-Broken-Heart-Back-Together-ebook/dp/B00R4C2MN0

Review: This was a very sweet and believable love story that incorporated the holiday spirit and the magic of Christmas for an ending that will make you go AWWWW!!!

Jason is an ex NFL player who suffered an injury that put an end to his career early on and destroyed his dreams for the future. In order to heal his broken heart, Jason takes up knitting and comes to love it. He is now the owner of a yarn store; Jason loves to give classes on how to knit to the women and men who are interested.

All Tomy Peralta got for Christmas is a broken heart. His boyfriend not only refused to accept his marriage proposal, but he broke up with him in order to pursue his dreams. Can knitting help Tomy put his broken heart back together like it helped Jason when he needed it?

I don’t know about that, but the relationship and friendship that form between our main characters sure will. Their romance develops slowly and sweetly, in the span of a year and it’s very believable. I liked the knitting and the dancing, and I loved how it brought them close together.

The main characters are likeable and supportive, and overall it was a pretty good story. I would’ve liked some tension and maybe a little bit of angst. This story is a little too sweet for my taste and some parts were downright cheesy, but I still enjoyed reading it.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

A Christ-mas Miracle by Nikka Michaels

91J2OmXVwjL._SL1500_Title: A Chris-mas Miracle
Series: Romance on the Go
Author: Nikka Michaels
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Short (30 pages)
Publisher: Evernight Publishing (December 9th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: Exchange student Drew Clarke should be happy. With a once in a lifetime opportunity to travel all over Australia he shouldn’t have any worries. But when his straight roommate, who he has a crush on, kisses Drew then freaks…he’s left without his only friend.

Alone during the holidays and in a foreign country, Drew finds himself lonely. When he meets surfing lifeguard, Scott, he thinks he’s found a distraction in six feet of easy on the eyes male. But when Scott wants to keep Drew in the closet, Drew’s had enough. Will his sexy friend and co-worker Chris be able to pull off a miracle for Drew and make his holiday happy?

ISBN: 978-1-77233-148-6

Product Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/a-chris-mas-miracle-by-nikka-michaels/

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Nice and short and to the point. The story features a very love square of sorts – Drew is on exchange studying at a uni in Australia, contemplating the ending of his friendship his closeted friend, Brian.

On the beach in Newcastle, NSW, he meets Scott the closeted surf lifesaver, as well as Chris, who works at a backpacker’s hostel. Chris and Drew embark on a platonic friendship, while Drew is busying being attracted to guys who treat him like shit and want to remain closeted.

The plot is that simple and there aren’t any unnecessary side points (great considering this is only 26 pages!). It’s an enjoyable read with some great sexual tension throughout the story. While Chris is correct, that Drew needs to change the type of guys he takes with, I think in the end we can be satisfied that despite some heartache Drew has well and truly learnt his lesson.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Nine Lights Over Edinburgh

{34764C47-4BE8-45CA-9D37-462596263D13}Img100Title: Nine Lights over Edinburgh
Series: His for the Holidays
Author: Harper Fox
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novel (123 pages)
Publisher: Carina Press (December 6th, 2010)
Heat Level: Low
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb: Detective Inspector James McBride is riding high on the belief that he’s about to bust a human-trafficking ring. But just five days before Christmas, his unorthodox methods catch up with him and his world comes crashing down.

McBride tries to concentrate on his new day job as security for the visiting Israeli ambassador. He even starts to feel a renewed sense of self-worth when the leader of the Israeli team, the aristocratic Tobias Leitner, takes a bullet for him in the line of duty. But he can’t forget the trafficking case, especially when his investigations result in the kidnapping of his own daughter! McBride has no one to turn to for help—no one, except Toby.

Can these two very different men work together to bring about a holiday miracle—and heal one another’s heart in the process?

ISBN: 9781426890949

Product Link: http://ebooks.carinapress.com/14384AF6-BC6A-43EE-9792-F62BF31CC4F5/10/134/en/ContentDetails.htm?ID=34764C47-4BE8-45CA-9D37-462596263D13

Reviewer: Prime

Review: This is one intense read! And the start of the first chapter had me amused because it sounded like one of the 1940’s PI type introduction. And the fact that he’s “McBride” is just so… so tough and Scottish (got to love a braw laddie, especially in his kilt!). It may be marketed as a Christmas story, but this is not the happy lighthearted read that many of us would expect. This is more cop-show suspense. Nonetheless, do not let that get in your way of enjoying the book.

James McBride is an Edinburgh DI – he’s forty, divorced, lonely, workaholic… paints a pretty sad picture, really. He’s also confused about his sexuality, and so he should be after the prologue. I’m going to go as far as saying he is a knight in tarnished armour and the object of his affections is more a prince charming than a damsel in distress.

Tobias Leitner isn’t one to shirk his responsibilities, even with a surly DI accompanying him. We barely just meet Toby before he puts himself in the line fire to protect James. There is certainly a spark between the men immediately.

The story is complex, probably too complex for its length, so unfortunately there isn’t quite as much development shown in terms of James and Tobias, or the emotion between the characters. There is just so much going on in the latter half that I had to pause a few times to keep track. Likewise, the plot outlined in the blurb in regards to the kidnapping of James’ daughter, Gracie, didn’t seem quite so important, because it happened in the last half of the book and didn’t really take up too many words.

Probably doesn’t help that James and Tobias don’t actually meet until almost halfway through. Because of this, the story isn’t as romantic as one would expect, but again, that’s okay! Thankfully, this one has a happily ever after, which eases the darkness and the intensity that I had just experienced reading the story.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Him for the Holidays by Jaxx Steele

himfortheholidays_exlarge_PNG-210x336Title: Him for the Holidays
Series: N/A
Author: Jaxx Steele
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Short (42 pages)
Publisher: Totally Bound (January 16th, 2015) Available for early download
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥3Hearts
Blurb: Don meets Trevor when he goes home for the holidays. Could a long-distance romance be his holiday wish come true?

Donald Bradley is home for the holidays. While running an errand for his mother, he meets Trevor Oxford, who is everything Don could ask for in a man. However, Don does not intend to have any type of relationship with him. Trevor lives and works in the small town and Don lives two hundred miles away in the city. Trevor is confident and aggressive in his pursuit of Don, who is confused by Trevor’s attentiveness. Don wants to run away from Trevor and run to him at the same time.

Could a long-distance romance be just what Don needs to start the New Year? Will Don accept what Trevor has to offer, giving him what he really wants this holiday season?

Publisher’s Note: This book was previously published elsewhere. It has been revised and re-edited for release with Totally Bound Publishing.

ISBN: 978-1-78430-363-1

Product Link: https://www.totallybound.com/him-for-the-holidays

Reviewer: Prime

Review: Hot and cute, that pretty much sums up this book for me. It’s almost like a comedy of errors, as Donald seems to be thrown Trevor’s way at every turn by Donald’s mother and sister. It’s really just a fun book, with some hot sex, some hang-ups and someone playing hard to get. Really, you don’t need to read too much between the lines or too deeply, into what’s going on.

Donald is staying in his small hometown with his mother over Christmas while he waits for repairs on his Indianapolis apartment. Trevor recently moved to the town where he inherited his uncle’s shop and picks up shifts at the hospital, because he is also a nurse. The plot is simple – Donald isn’t overly optimistic about going into a long distance relationship despite his loneliness and Trevor is willing to take the chance regardless of the consequences. Donald and Trevor are really likable and relatable, and they have some sizzling chemistry.

Honestly, the ending didn’t feel quite right after the Donald we get to know. I really was expecting some sort of hissy fit before everything was resolved. For that reason, I think I really just wanted to know more about this couple before the story ended. Nonetheless, this is a fun holiday read.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Christmas Visit by Marshal Thornton

41bm+ZkSRdLTitle: The Christmas Visit
Author: Marshall Thornton
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (63 pages)
Publisher: Marshall Thornton (September 29th 2012)
Heat Level: Mild
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5 Hearts
Blurb: A Chicago art director in his early thirties returns to his tiny Upstate New York hometown to spend the holiday with his recently widowed father only to find himself involved with his boyhood crush, now a closeted sheriff’s deputy. It’s sentimental and sexy, with a bit of mystery stirred in.

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/Christmas-Visit-Marshall-Thornton-ebook/dp/B008GHMRFK

Reviewer: Tams

Review: He left his childhood home and the boy he loved for an Art degree and promising career in Chicago. Now he’s back home after his mother’s passing to spend Christmas with his father. He has never forgotten that day by the lake with Travis, he doesn’t think he ever will, and all the memories come flooding back when he sees Travis for the first time in years.

Travis very unhappily married, but married nonetheless, so the two dance around their obvious attraction in the beginning. Travis’s sickly wife seems to be hiding a secret of her own though, a secret that lands him in the ER and breaks the remaining fibers holding together the façade of a happily married couple. Will he finally get the man he’s always wanted? Or will Travis once again be blinded by loyalty instead of love.

This was a fast-paced story and there was a lot of content for so few pages. I was impressed with Thornton’s ability to keep me in the dark about certain aspects and characters in the storyline, and while he was supposed to be a secondary character, his widowed father almost stole the spotlight. I don’t usually care for cheaters, but Thornton managed to give a valid reason Travis was all but shoved into his arms.

There were a few times the story didn’t flow well from one place to the next and I thought that he could have at least been given a name, having a nameless narrator was a little off-putting for me. But overall, I enjoyed this story. Not the usual Christmas fluff and stuff type of story, this one has a bite to it, but if you are a fan of the genre, I believe you’ll find something here you like.

The Blizzard by Erin M. Leaf

theblizzard__37080.1417990871.300.450*Title was free on Publisher’s Web site at time of posting*

Title: The Blizzard
Series: The Billionaire’s Bodyguard, #2
Author: Erin M. Leaf
Genre: Romantic Suspense/Holiday
Length: Short Story (20 Pages)
Publisher: Evernight Publishing (September 17, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥3.5Hearts
Blurb: It’s Christmas Eve and billionaire Alex Roman screwed up. He promised his boyfriend, Jesse, that he’d be home for the holidays, but he went to a last-minute meeting in the city and got trapped in a snowstorm. Now he must face a fate worse than death: spending the night in a strange motel. Alone.

Jesse Emerson thought he could trust his boyfriend to stay home when it’s snowing outside. After all, his father and Alex’s grandfather died in a blizzard, and since that fateful day, neither of them enjoys winter weather. Instead, Alex is nowhere to be found. Jesse has no choice but to head out into the storm to find his wayward lover.

When darkness falls and ice blankets the roads, will the magic of Christmas Eve somehow bring Jesse and Alex back together, or will both men perish in the cold, lost and alone?

ISBN: 978-1-77233-165-6

Product Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/the-blizzard-by-erin-m-leaf/

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is the second book in this series and you should start with book one. It will tell you about the men and how they ended up together. I have to tell you that it was a blast to read it. Alex, who is richer than sin, could not let the opportunity pass him by. Now stuck in a blizzard away from his man, he might end up regretting that. Thank god for the strange motel but on Christmas Eve there are many miracles just waiting to happen. One especially if it saves him from his man Jesse killing him.

This was a blast to read and I look forward to many more with Alex and Jesse in them. They are a hot couple with very tempting sex between them. It was a cute little story and was perfect for the holidays. I love the magical way to this particular book and can see it become a favorite during Christmas time.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Vivid by Ana Raine

81Ia73vBDUL._SL1425_Title: Vivid
Series: N/A
Author: Ana Raine
Genre: Contemporary
Length: Novella (56 pages)
Publisher: Mlr Press (December 11th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥5Hearts
Blurb: When Akai visits Grand Rapids for the holidays, he finds more than just his courage.
Akai has had a troubled past growing up in and out of different foster homes. Despite being an adult, he cannot forget his best friend growing up.

When Akai visits Grand Radpids in a last-ditch effort to find his long-lost friend, he is determined to finally sled without backing out. But when he meets Collins, there is more than just courage at stake.

ISBN: MLR-1-02014-0347

Product Link: http://www.mlrbooks.com/ShowBook.php?book=AR_VIVID

Reviewer: Prime

Review: This is a beautifully wonderful book – I just want to gush about how sweet it is and give away the entire plot! It’s nice and short, too. So it’s a quick read, but all the t’s have been crossed and the i’s dotted, so there are no niggling questions on my behalf. Strangely, too, despite loving the story, I didn’t feel the need that there was something missing.

This is a poignant glimpse into Akai Greyson’s life. After his parents died when he was nine, he was in foster care until he became legal. This story is a combination of flash backs (triggered by either objects or stray words spoken in the book), with Akai telling the story of his current search for his nameless best friend.

If you read it, you’ll work out what is going to happen in the end, but the build up of Akai and Collin’s relationship is wonderful. We also witness Akai as he tackles his demons, which is where Collins comes in and helps Akai – a lot. The story was geared around reminders of Akai’s childhood including snow (or lack of), jars of water (you’ll see the relevance) and sledding, which makes the story just seem so much more personal.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

The Sergeant: A Christmas Story by Christa Tomlinson

913tiFwaArL._SL1500_Title: The Sergeant: A Christmas Story
Series: The Sergeant
Author: Christa Tomlinson
Genre: Contemporary/ BDSM
Length: Novella (52 Pages)
Publisher: Torlina Publishings (December 17, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Sergeant Logan Pierce and Senior Corporal Clay Foster have fought past all the obstacles that stood in the way of their relationship. Now, they are in love and committed to each other as Dominant and submissive.

As the holidays approach, all they want is time to enjoy each other away from their demanding jobs as SWAT officers. But someone threatens to ruin their first Christmas together.

Logan refuses to let anyone or anything destroy his submissive’s happiness. What can he do to save Christmas for his love?

Product Link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Sergeant-A-Christmas-Story-ebook/dp/B00R6C77WE

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is part of a series, but can be enjoyed as a standalone, but your experience will be enhanced by reading The Sergeant first. This was a really hot little book that smokes most BDSM books out of the water. I love the fact that even though they are both macho men who carry guns and are probably the strongest men I have ever come across. Clay and Logan had gone through the hard times, and most were ok with it. However, their commander seemed to want to punish them by making them work Christmas. Clay had a fantasy and Logan was going to make it come true for him.

This was a fascinating little Christmas story and I had a blast reading it. There was so much feeling put into such a short dynamic story that was one amazing good read. I loved the first book and I have got to tell you that this one was even better than the first. I think for me, it was the fact that Logan gave Clay something he asked for. I look forward to reading the rest of Christa’s books.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

A New Haven Christmas by Angelique Voisen

anhc__14971.1417482916.300.450*Title was free from publisher at time of posting*
Title: A New Haven Christmas
Series: Wolves of New Haven, #6
Author: Angelique Voisen
Genre: Paranormal/Holiday
Length: Short Story (20 Pages)
Publisher: Evernight Publishing (December 2, 2014)
Heat Level: Explicit
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: While the rest of his pack mates are celebrating the holiday season with their newfound mates, Peter Sanders is miserably counting off the minutes until he can head home. Pete knows he’s no one’s ideal mate. He’s mediocre, sells video games for a living, and still lives with his mother. Pete begins to think it’s going to be another miserable Christmas when his dream hunk strikes up a conversation with him.

Fabio Luigi may be new to the New Haven pack, but he isn’t blind to the glances a certain submissive wolf has been giving him all season long. Pete may believe they come from two different worlds for sparks to fly, but Fabio intends to prove Pete wrong.

ISBN: 978-1-77233-133-2

Product Link: http://www.evernightpublishing.com/a-new-haven-christmas-by-angelique-voisen/

Reviewer: Lisa

Review: This is part of the Wolves of New Haven series and they should be read in order. Each story focuses on a new romantic couple. For me it gives me an insight into the characters and their lives. Peter has wanted Fabio but never though the man even knew he was alive. Boy was he in for a big surprise. Fabio has always wanted his mate.

So much story in a small and explosive package. This was a blast to read even if it was way too short for me. However, I am glad that Peter got the perfect Christmas present ever. He is a funny little wolf with a lot of attitude. He gives Fabio hell and I loved it. Amazing story and I look forward to reading more in this series.

I can’t wait for the next story to be written. It gives you sexy werewolves and a Christmas to remember.
　
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *

Reindeer Games 3: Naughty and Nice by Jet Mykles

jm_rg3_naughtyandnice_1Title: Naughty and Nice
Series: Reindeer Games, #3
Author: Jet Mykles
Genre: Paranormal/Holiday
Length: Novella (107 pages)
Publisher: Loose Id (December 9th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥4Hearts
Blurb: Rom is Dasher. As Santa’s lead reindeer, he has everything he’s ever wanted. He is everything he’d ever wanted to be. His life is perfect, filled with good friends and any pretty, he wants.

Until Shaw appears in front of him. The drab little elf from Archives isn’t anything like Rom’s other partners. Oh, he’s cute, but he doesn’t know it. Even more amazing, he seems immune to Rom’s flirting. It’s almost as if he doesn’t want Rom. Wait, no. When Rom does proposition him, Shaw turns him down flat.

Amazing!

Even more amazing, Rom is hooked. He can’t get Shaw out of his mind. He even goes to the Library to pursue him. But Shaw — and Shaw’s mother — can’t figure out what Rom would want with him.

Well, Rom’s not entirely sure either but he knows he wants to find out. Can he convince Shaw?

ISBN: 978-1-62300-817-8

Product Link: http://www.loose-id.com/reindeer-games-3-naughty-and-nice.html

Reviewer: Shorty

Review: Rom seemed arrogant and conceited in this book to me. He assumes everyone wants him and he can have his pick of anyone he wants. He has different handlers each time so he can let everyone have a chance with him. It seemed, seeing as he’s the lead reindeer that he would handle himself better than he did.

Shaw is a sweet shy young man who keeps to himself. When Rom shows an interest in him, he doesn’t believe him and continuously turns him down. I really liked that Shaw didn’t act the way the others did and had Rom chasing him instead of the other way around.

Cute story with plenty of Christmas magic in it. Great read.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com*

No Regrets by Sean Michael, 2nd edition

NoRegretsTitle: No Regrets, 2nd edition
Series: N/A
Author: Sean Michael
Genre: Contemporary/Holiday
Length: Novella (78 pages)
Publisher: Amber Allure, Amber Quill Press, Inc (November 30th, 2014)
Heat Level: Moderate
Heart Rating: ♥♥♥♥♥ 4.5Hearts
Blurb: Drake is a musician and singer with a career that has spun out of his control. When he gets an invitation from an old friend to come and spend some downtime in the country, he happily turns off his cell phone and heads to the middle of nowhere.

Artist Scott hopes Drake will find some peace on his little farm, and sets about making his old buddy right at home. Can the two of them fight off Drake’s fame and find happiness together, at least for the Christmas season?

NOTE: This story was previously published with no assigned ISBN. This reissued version of the story has been revised and re-edited.

ISBN: 978-1-61124-709-1
Purchase Link: http://www.amberquill.com/store/p/2079-No-Regrets.aspx
Reviewer: Leigh
Review: Drake is a world-famous musician who is at the end of his rope and heading for a breakdown. The demands made on him have left him little time for himself. When he reads a letter from on old high school friend inviting him to stay at his place in the middle of nowhere Drake jumps on the chance. Scott is a painter who has loved Drake forever, not that he ever told Drake that.

The first order of business for Scott is to take care of Drake and make him comfortable, and make the bags under Drake’s eye disappear. As the two get closer and spend time together, feelings develop for both of them. Drake has been hiding he was gay forever, especially since he was in the spotlight. With Scott, he is finally free to be who he really is.

This was a sweet little story. I loved both MCs. They were easily likable. There was no drama or angst. Just two men falling in love with each other. Also throw in some steamy sex and it was the perfect short.

* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *