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Lucky Harbor #8.5
A Christmas to Remember
Curl up with this heartwarming Christmas collection!
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Melissa has kept every man at a safe distance-especially firefighter Ian, a sexy friend with sexy benefits. But Ian secretly longs for more. Luckily, 'tis the season for giving love a chance . . .
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Holidays don't come easy for Shy and his brother, Landon. But with the magic of Christmas, along with a little help from Tabby and her family, the Cage brothers are about to get the gift of a lifetime . . .
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Down on her luck and evicted from her apartment, single mother Maryanne hopes to start over in Last Chance. When the snow begins to fall, it looks like her baby might literally spend Christmas Eve in a manger. And Maryanne might celebrate the holiday with a handsome stranger.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln is a bachelor who's set in his ways-until a professional organizer dressed up as Mrs. Claus changes his life, one tip at a time. . .
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: War widow Ilena doesn't mind spending Christmas alone. But when a new doctor blows into town with the winter wind, will she get her secret Christmas wish?
Plus: Excerpts from upcoming novels!
(40,000 words)
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Melissa has kept every man at a safe distance-especially firefighter Ian, a sexy friend with sexy benefits. But Ian secretly longs for more. Luckily, 'tis the season for giving love a chance . . .
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Holidays don't come easy for Shy and his brother, Landon. But with the magic of Christmas, along with a little help from Tabby and her family, the Cage brothers are about to get the gift of a lifetime . . .
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Down on her luck and evicted from her apartment, single mother Maryanne hopes to start over in Last Chance. When the snow begins to fall, it looks like her baby might literally spend Christmas Eve in a manger. And Maryanne might celebrate the holiday with a handsome stranger.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln is a bachelor who's set in his ways-until a professional organizer dressed up as Mrs. Claus changes his life, one tip at a time. . .
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: War widow Ilena doesn't mind spending Christmas alone. But when a new doctor blows into town with the winter wind, will she get her secret Christmas wish?
Plus: Excerpts from upcoming novels!
(40,000 words)
224 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2013
308 people are currently reading
6167 people want to read
About the author
Jill Shalvis
386 books13.8k followersJill Shalvis is a NYT, USA Today, and Amazon Top 100 bestselling author of small-town romance and romcoms, known for big feels, found family, and plenty of shenanigans.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
If you love small-town chaos, meddling friends and neighbors, sizzling chemistry, and heroes who fall hard for the one woman they absolutely did not plan on, you’re in the right place. Jill’s books blend laugh-out-loud moments with emotional gut punches, slow-burn tension, and deeply earned happily ever afters.
She writes the stories she loves to read: small-town romance and romantic comedies packed with heart, heat, second chances, grumpy/sunshine sparks, and the kind of found-family vibes that make you want to move right into the pages. Many of her series are perfect for binge-reading, and a number of her books are available in Kindle Unlimited and at major retailers.
When she’s not writing, she’s probably plotting new ways to torture her characters, avoiding laundry, or daydreaming about fictional men and the strong, complicated women who bring them to their knees—and then making them work for it.
You can follow Jill here on Goodreads to keep up with new releases, add her books to your shelves, and discover which small town you want to get lost in next.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 621 reviews
June 3, 2016
**** 4,5 stars ****
I have only read "Every Year" by Kristen Ashley. It's hard to rate something that is so short but I always like to read this additional, short stories to the series I've read. It feels good to catch up with characters I loved. It was nice to see Shy and Landon finally, after years of not having it, getting their Merry Christmas. Christmas with Allens and Cages was sweet and heart-warming. And the earrings gift was just beautiful, love Shy!, so thoughtful.
I have only read "Every Year" by Kristen Ashley. It's hard to rate something that is so short but I always like to read this additional, short stories to the series I've read. It feels good to catch up with characters I loved. It was nice to see Shy and Landon finally, after years of not having it, getting their Merry Christmas. Christmas with Allens and Cages was sweet and heart-warming. And the earrings gift was just beautiful, love Shy!, so thoughtful.
December 24, 2013
3.5 Christmasy stars!
So... the above picture doesn't have much to do with any of these novellas, but it sure is nice to look at ;D
This anthology fell a little flat for me.
Out of all the novellas, the only one that I really loved was KA's Chaos novella Every Year. I love Shy and Tabby and it was great catching up with them on their first Christmas together. Oh the earrings. I adore Shy!
I'm not sure if it's because I didn't know the back stories of the other novellas, or that I've never read the authors but I just couldn't get into them. I found myself skimming. I kind of wish I only read Every Year and skipped out on the rest.
5 Stars for KA, 3 or less for the others. Final rating: 3.5.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
So... the above picture doesn't have much to do with any of these novellas, but it sure is nice to look at ;D
This anthology fell a little flat for me.
Out of all the novellas, the only one that I really loved was KA's Chaos novella Every Year. I love Shy and Tabby and it was great catching up with them on their first Christmas together. Oh the earrings. I adore Shy!
I'm not sure if it's because I didn't know the back stories of the other novellas, or that I've never read the authors but I just couldn't get into them. I found myself skimming. I kind of wish I only read Every Year and skipped out on the rest.
5 Stars for KA, 3 or less for the others. Final rating: 3.5.
ARC provided by publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
December 12, 2013
4 stars for Every Year - Chaos, #2.5
Totally sated my Chaos fix, just wish I had more time with the Alpha-biker man himself, but I’ll take what I can get :) Loved every bit of it! Makes me wonder what else is in store from the Chaos fam-bam.
***Yes, I'm a bad girl and only read KA's story, but I don't care, Tack can spank my ass any day ;)
“Every year, baby.”
The fact that it had started snowing made the hilarious event of three Chaos Motorcycle club bikers and a soldier tying a rope to a tree seriously hilarious.
Totally sated my Chaos fix, just wish I had more time with the Alpha-biker man himself, but I’ll take what I can get :) Loved every bit of it! Makes me wonder what else is in store from the Chaos fam-bam.
***Yes, I'm a bad girl and only read KA's story, but I don't care, Tack can spank my ass any day ;)
Want to read
March 20, 2014
Information. I need information.
Where is it?
Not that it matters. It's Kristen Ashley. I'll be reading it.
December 24, 2013
Christmas Buddy Read!!!
The plan was to read one story from this book each Tuesday evening. But because it is the 'busy season' it became hard to stick to that plan.
December 3rd: Dream a Little Dream by Jill Shalvis
December 10th: Every Year by Kristen Ashley
December 17th: Silent Night by Hope Ramsay
December 24th: Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon
December 31st: A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
A Christmas to Remember is a heartwarming Christmas collection of short stories. If you're looking for a quick holiday books to get you into the holiday spirit than this one is for you.
★ ★ ★★
Dream a Little Dream by Jill Shalvis
Ian is a sexy firefighter whose love life is on hold as the lady he loves has pushed him away. Melissa has trust issues because she has never experienced unconditional love. She keeps Ian at a distant to protect her heart.
This is my first time reading a Jill Shalvis story but it won’t be my last.
★ ★ ★
Every Year by Kristen Ashley
If you are a KA fan than you'll love finding out more about Shy and Tabby. This short story adds a little Christmas blend to their book book - Own the Wind. I loved the part where he continues his father’s tradition of giving a pair of earrings each Christmas.
★ ★ ★
Silent Night by Hope Ramsay
This story was about a homeless mother waiting to surprise her cousin’s farm. While she waits she takes refuge in a barn. She’s found by a single man who has been wishing for a family of his own.
★ ★ ★★
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon
A mother hires an Organizer to help her single son get his home ready for the holiday season.
★ ★ ★
A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
A war widow and a new doctor in town form a bond that keeps them together.
Standalone
The plan was to read one story from this book each Tuesday evening. But because it is the 'busy season' it became hard to stick to that plan.
December 3rd: Dream a Little Dream by Jill Shalvis
December 10th: Every Year by Kristen Ashley
December 17th: Silent Night by Hope Ramsay
December 24th: Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon
December 31st: A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
A Christmas to Remember is a heartwarming Christmas collection of short stories. If you're looking for a quick holiday books to get you into the holiday spirit than this one is for you.
★ ★ ★★
Dream a Little Dream by Jill Shalvis
Ian is a sexy firefighter whose love life is on hold as the lady he loves has pushed him away. Melissa has trust issues because she has never experienced unconditional love. She keeps Ian at a distant to protect her heart.
This is my first time reading a Jill Shalvis story but it won’t be my last.
★ ★ ★
Every Year by Kristen Ashley
If you are a KA fan than you'll love finding out more about Shy and Tabby. This short story adds a little Christmas blend to their book book - Own the Wind. I loved the part where he continues his father’s tradition of giving a pair of earrings each Christmas.
★ ★ ★
Silent Night by Hope Ramsay
This story was about a homeless mother waiting to surprise her cousin’s farm. While she waits she takes refuge in a barn. She’s found by a single man who has been wishing for a family of his own.
★ ★ ★★
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon
A mother hires an Organizer to help her single son get his home ready for the holiday season.
★ ★ ★
A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
A war widow and a new doctor in town form a bond that keeps them together.
Standalone
May 15, 2018
No I’m not going nuts reading a Christmas book in May, but this bundle of novellas contains Lucky Harbor #8.5 and I’m not waiting/reading out of sync because that just messes with my chi.
A short and very satisfying little addition to what’s become one of my favourite series’.
A short and very satisfying little addition to what’s become one of my favourite series’.
July 29, 2016
3.5 Happy Holiday Stars!
A Christmas to Remember is a compilation of several short stories from top selling authors in the romance/erotica genre.
Every Year- by Kristen Ashley
I'll be 100% honest- I bought the book for the soul reason of hearing more from Shy and Danny from Own The Wind. We all know the awesomeness of all things Kit, but she writes a Christmas story like no other. Shy and Landon have not had the greatest holidays since both their parents were killed. But this year, things change. Christmas with Tack and Tyra brings a whole new sense of family and tradition. It's heartwarming and the book is worth the cost just for this short story.
Dream a Little Dream- by Jill Shalvis
Ian O'Mallory, firefighter gets the call nobody wants to get...a fire in the building his ex-girlfriend (and woman he still loves) lives in. It's a nightmare come true. Can he save her in time? If and when he does, he's going to put all pride aside and tell Melissa how he feels. It's Christmastime and he misses her. She was running scared but in the face of death, all things come clear. Will this be a Christmas to remember? If so, let's hope it's for all happy reasons.
Silent Night- by Hope Ramsay
When a down-on-her-luck single, homeless mother of a 3-month old baby breaks down on the side of the road on Christmas Eve, she's desperate and alone. Hiding out in an abandoned farmhouse, she's spotted by the owner, a handsome man driving a fancy BMW. That doesn't fit the old farmhouse she's bunking nearby. His parents recently passing away, he's flown in to sell the old place. Feeling equally alone on Christmas, can these two polar opposite people find peace and healing during Christmastime? Is it possible to find more? A nice, feel-good Christmas story depicting the true miracles of Christmas.
Have Yourself A Messy Little Christmas- by Molly Cannon
When his mother hires a professional organizer to clean up his house for her impending holiday visit, he had no idea he'd fall head over hills for this girl. They do say opposites attract.
A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
I really liked this one. Jared, a pediatrician from NYC signs a contract to work in a clinic in rural Oklahoma. It's nothing like anything he'd normally do but he's done with being under his parents' control. The town is nothing-ville but he soon sets eyes on the town "elf" Ilena. She's nothing like the high society women he dated in the city but he just finds himself drawn to this widow with a baby. Can he suck it up and deal with small town boring to have a chance at family and happiness? This was a real feel-good holiday read!
A Christmas to Remember is a compilation of several short stories from top selling authors in the romance/erotica genre.
Every Year- by Kristen Ashley
I'll be 100% honest- I bought the book for the soul reason of hearing more from Shy and Danny from Own The Wind. We all know the awesomeness of all things Kit, but she writes a Christmas story like no other. Shy and Landon have not had the greatest holidays since both their parents were killed. But this year, things change. Christmas with Tack and Tyra brings a whole new sense of family and tradition. It's heartwarming and the book is worth the cost just for this short story.
Dream a Little Dream- by Jill Shalvis
Ian O'Mallory, firefighter gets the call nobody wants to get...a fire in the building his ex-girlfriend (and woman he still loves) lives in. It's a nightmare come true. Can he save her in time? If and when he does, he's going to put all pride aside and tell Melissa how he feels. It's Christmastime and he misses her. She was running scared but in the face of death, all things come clear. Will this be a Christmas to remember? If so, let's hope it's for all happy reasons.
Silent Night- by Hope Ramsay
When a down-on-her-luck single, homeless mother of a 3-month old baby breaks down on the side of the road on Christmas Eve, she's desperate and alone. Hiding out in an abandoned farmhouse, she's spotted by the owner, a handsome man driving a fancy BMW. That doesn't fit the old farmhouse she's bunking nearby. His parents recently passing away, he's flown in to sell the old place. Feeling equally alone on Christmas, can these two polar opposite people find peace and healing during Christmastime? Is it possible to find more? A nice, feel-good Christmas story depicting the true miracles of Christmas.
Have Yourself A Messy Little Christmas- by Molly Cannon
When his mother hires a professional organizer to clean up his house for her impending holiday visit, he had no idea he'd fall head over hills for this girl. They do say opposites attract.
A Family for Christmas by Marilyn Pappano
I really liked this one. Jared, a pediatrician from NYC signs a contract to work in a clinic in rural Oklahoma. It's nothing like anything he'd normally do but he's done with being under his parents' control. The town is nothing-ville but he soon sets eyes on the town "elf" Ilena. She's nothing like the high society women he dated in the city but he just finds himself drawn to this widow with a baby. Can he suck it up and deal with small town boring to have a chance at family and happiness? This was a real feel-good holiday read!
December 25, 2014
Only read KA's short. LOVED a holiday memory with Tack, Tyra, Shy, Tabby and their families. Gave me the warm and fuzzies.
October 1, 2014
Christmas anthology featuring five short Christmas stories, four of which I really liked. Jill Shalvis, Marilyn Pappano, Hope Ramsay, and Molly Cannon all had very enjoyable stories that got me in the Christmas mood and were nice, quick and easy reads.
The only story I didn't like was Kristen Ashley's. I couldn't get into it at all, didn't like any of the characters, and couldn't wait for it to end.
Overall, I thought this anthology was a fun and festive holiday read for the four stories I liked.
Individual story ratings:
Jill Shalvis - 5 stars
Kristen Ashley - 1 star
Hope Ramsay - 4 stars
Molly Cannon - 4 stars
Marilyn Pappano - 5 stars
The only story I didn't like was Kristen Ashley's. I couldn't get into it at all, didn't like any of the characters, and couldn't wait for it to end.
Overall, I thought this anthology was a fun and festive holiday read for the four stories I liked.
Individual story ratings:
Jill Shalvis - 5 stars
Kristen Ashley - 1 star
Hope Ramsay - 4 stars
Molly Cannon - 4 stars
Marilyn Pappano - 5 stars
June 3, 2015
Every Year by Kristen Ashley ★★★★★
I love Shy, Tabby and Landon. So I loved catching up with them. And my heart just melted while reading this. I love that Shy and Landon got to experience a great Christmas as part of a real family. Seeing as KA's books are typically long, I'm surprised at myself for saying this but, I wish this one were longer. I wanted more. But ultimately, it was very satisfying. I would love a book about Landon. I sincerely hope that KA gives him his own story with a HEA. He deserves it.
December 11, 2013
4 Stars.
A Christmas To Remember is an absolutely stellar selection of seasonal tales provided by some of the most popular authors that are around right now.
Some spicy, some sweet, this book is like a selection box of written treats, with something to suit all. All of the stories are quite short in length, so they are great for a little light relief when you have a spare hour (or are waiting for public transport, like me), and what they all have in common is that they are extremely well written.
My particular favorites were Dream A Little Dream by Jill Shalvis, because I love a hot Fireman and Ian is certainly that, and Have Yourself A Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon, the verbal sparring between Dinah and Lincoln was pretty funny in parts. But saying that I really enjoyed the rest of the stories in this book, there weren’t any “duds” if you know what I mean, it’s just the aforementioned are the two that stuck with me the most.
Definitely worth a read, if you want something seasonal and not too long, this is a book for you, you can read one this year and save the others for years to come!
ARC provided through Netgalley, I am pleased to provide the above honest review as thanks.
A Christmas To Remember is an absolutely stellar selection of seasonal tales provided by some of the most popular authors that are around right now.
Some spicy, some sweet, this book is like a selection box of written treats, with something to suit all. All of the stories are quite short in length, so they are great for a little light relief when you have a spare hour (or are waiting for public transport, like me), and what they all have in common is that they are extremely well written.
My particular favorites were Dream A Little Dream by Jill Shalvis, because I love a hot Fireman and Ian is certainly that, and Have Yourself A Messy Little Christmas by Molly Cannon, the verbal sparring between Dinah and Lincoln was pretty funny in parts. But saying that I really enjoyed the rest of the stories in this book, there weren’t any “duds” if you know what I mean, it’s just the aforementioned are the two that stuck with me the most.
Definitely worth a read, if you want something seasonal and not too long, this is a book for you, you can read one this year and save the others for years to come!
ARC provided through Netgalley, I am pleased to provide the above honest review as thanks.
December 19, 2013
I only read the Jill Shalvis which was pretty good. The heroine is scared of commitment so walked away from hero six months before both of them find their way back to each other in a way that made me smile.
Read
May 1, 2014How bout that then? No blurb; no release date; no idea what this book is about HOWEVER - it's got KA's name all over it and I. Am. THERE!!!
November 23, 2013
Love all things Kristen Ashely... Especially if it has anything to do with Shy and Tabby.
Merged review:
ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
DREAM A LITTLE DREAM by Jill Shalvis
Very cute short story about fireman, Ian O’Mallery and Melissa Mann, who are in love but because of Melissa’s background she’s pushed Ian away. It takes a near death experience for her to realize she’s made a mistake. Now she will do everything in her power to prove that she’s ready and wants him back.
An Excerpt from ONCE IN A LIFETIME by Jill Shalvis
I laughed so hard. It was hilarious. Now I need to read the full book.
EVERY YEAR by Kristen Ashley
Getting a little more of Shy and Tabby at Christmas was a great treat. Considering Shy and his brother Landon, had a sad upbringing. Having them with the Allen family for the Holidays was sweet with a side of Hot sex mixed in. You can never go wrong with Kristen Ashley.
SILENT NIGHT by Hope Ramsey
I liked it. Had elements of the nativity story to it.
HAVE YOURSELF A MESSY LITTLE CHRISTMAS by Molly Cannon
It was cute, but a little boring.
A FAMILY FOR CHRISTMAS by Marilyn Pappano
This one didn’t work for me at all.
Overall, the stories were nice, but only the Kristen Ashely and Jill Shalvis stories worked for me. I would have given it more stars if it were just those two stories. There was an excerpt from Own The Wind , which made me go back and read the prologue and first couple of chapters of the book. Shy and Tabby are one of my favorite Kristen Ashley couples.
Merged review:
ARC provided by publisher through NetGalley for an honest review.
DREAM A LITTLE DREAM by Jill Shalvis
Very cute short story about fireman, Ian O’Mallery and Melissa Mann, who are in love but because of Melissa’s background she’s pushed Ian away. It takes a near death experience for her to realize she’s made a mistake. Now she will do everything in her power to prove that she’s ready and wants him back.
An Excerpt from ONCE IN A LIFETIME by Jill Shalvis
I laughed so hard. It was hilarious. Now I need to read the full book.
EVERY YEAR by Kristen Ashley
Getting a little more of Shy and Tabby at Christmas was a great treat. Considering Shy and his brother Landon, had a sad upbringing. Having them with the Allen family for the Holidays was sweet with a side of Hot sex mixed in. You can never go wrong with Kristen Ashley.
SILENT NIGHT by Hope Ramsey
I liked it. Had elements of the nativity story to it.
HAVE YOURSELF A MESSY LITTLE CHRISTMAS by Molly Cannon
It was cute, but a little boring.
A FAMILY FOR CHRISTMAS by Marilyn Pappano
This one didn’t work for me at all.
Overall, the stories were nice, but only the Kristen Ashely and Jill Shalvis stories worked for me. I would have given it more stars if it were just those two stories. There was an excerpt from Own The Wind , which made me go back and read the prologue and first couple of chapters of the book. Shy and Tabby are one of my favorite Kristen Ashley couples.
Want to read
November 11, 2013
WHY YES! I want to spent the holidays with Tack & Tyra!!!
December 21, 2013
Bring it on festive mood!
How I love the way Christmas stories warm my heart. Especially this one has Kristen Ashley's and introduced me to some of authors who I had never got the chance to read their stories before.
Each is short and some have insta-love in them. Who cares, it's Christmas, the season of magic and love :) and miracles. I believe in it, everyone should believe in it.
Enjoy! and Merry Christmas :)
March 19, 2014
I have picked up and put down this book more times than I can count.
I wanted to love it. I wanted to enjoy it. I planned to read it with a group of friends in December 2013... they all finished and I was stuck in the book.
Yes, each story was good. I liked it. I just didn't get captured by it. I like short stories. I enjoy these authors.
Sigh. I just wanted to like the collection more than I did. Maybe that was the issue - High hopes. High hopes never end well - do they?
I wanted to love it. I wanted to enjoy it. I planned to read it with a group of friends in December 2013... they all finished and I was stuck in the book.
Yes, each story was good. I liked it. I just didn't get captured by it. I like short stories. I enjoy these authors.
Sigh. I just wanted to like the collection more than I did. Maybe that was the issue - High hopes. High hopes never end well - do they?
April 22, 2018
Lucky Harbor 8.5
3.5 stars
Read December 2014
Chaos 2.5
3.5 stars
Read December 2013
3.5 stars
Read December 2014
Chaos 2.5
3.5 stars
Read December 2013
December 28, 2023
A Christmas to Remember
Source: Netgalley/Library
Dates Read: 12/1/23 - 12/21/23
Average Stars: 3.5
Dream a Little Dream - Lucky Harbor, Book 8.5 - Jill Shalvis - 4 Stars - Ian O’Malley, Melissa Mann - This is super cute and super steamy at one point. Starts off a little scary with Melissa caught in a building fire but I think you can guess she gets her HEA in the end.
Every Year - Chaos, Book 2.5 - Kristen Ashley - 2.5 Stars - Shy Cage, Tabby, Landon Cage, all of Tabby’s family - This was okay. Probably would have been more impactful if I knew the characters better. I did skip the last sex scene, not in the mood. I was also annoyed by Tabby always calling Shy “my man”. Glad she cut that out about halfway through.
Silent Night - Last Chance, Book 6.5 - Hope Ramsey - 4 Stars - Daniel Jessup, Maryanne Carpenter, Joshua Carpenter -Very sweet. I’d actually love to see more of how their relationship builds as neither character is really ready for romantic entanglements as this ends. It was also nice to have a small cast. A lot of Christmas stories are these big coming together of many parts of a family, which I love, but I also appreciated this small quiet time with just a few characters. Oh, and they better adopt that cat.
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas - Everson, Texas, Book .5 - Molly Cannon - 4 Stars - Lincoln Jones, Dinah Mason - Very instalovey but also cute.
A Family for Christmas - Tallgrass, Book 1.5 - Marilyn Pappano - Did Not Read - Character Names - I ran out of steam and didn’t read this one. My moody little heart could not stand to meet any more new people. I’m sorry Ms. Pappano.
Source: Netgalley/Library
Dates Read: 12/1/23 - 12/21/23
Average Stars: 3.5
Dream a Little Dream - Lucky Harbor, Book 8.5 - Jill Shalvis - 4 Stars - Ian O’Malley, Melissa Mann - This is super cute and super steamy at one point. Starts off a little scary with Melissa caught in a building fire but I think you can guess she gets her HEA in the end.
Every Year - Chaos, Book 2.5 - Kristen Ashley - 2.5 Stars - Shy Cage, Tabby, Landon Cage, all of Tabby’s family - This was okay. Probably would have been more impactful if I knew the characters better. I did skip the last sex scene, not in the mood. I was also annoyed by Tabby always calling Shy “my man”. Glad she cut that out about halfway through.
Silent Night - Last Chance, Book 6.5 - Hope Ramsey - 4 Stars - Daniel Jessup, Maryanne Carpenter, Joshua Carpenter -Very sweet. I’d actually love to see more of how their relationship builds as neither character is really ready for romantic entanglements as this ends. It was also nice to have a small cast. A lot of Christmas stories are these big coming together of many parts of a family, which I love, but I also appreciated this small quiet time with just a few characters. Oh, and they better adopt that cat.
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas - Everson, Texas, Book .5 - Molly Cannon - 4 Stars - Lincoln Jones, Dinah Mason - Very instalovey but also cute.
A Family for Christmas - Tallgrass, Book 1.5 - Marilyn Pappano - Did Not Read - Character Names - I ran out of steam and didn’t read this one. My moody little heart could not stand to meet any more new people. I’m sorry Ms. Pappano.
November 19, 2013
read as part of the Christmas Anthology
Merged review:
This one is hard to rate for me because some were great and some were good. I wanted this book for Kristen Ashley's contribution and in fact I have pre-ordered this book and will still buy it even though I was given an ARC copy. But I must say a nice bonus for me was to get introduced to some authors that I had never read and some that I had never heard of. I have found some new authors that I will be reading books from in the future. Overall this was a nice compilation book with fun Christmas stories that left me happy and ready for the Christmas season.
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Ian and Melissa were involved but called it quits each with regrets and both wishing they were still together. When Ian is called out for a fire he is shocked and terrified when he hears it is Melissa's apartment building. After Ian rescues Melissa they both find themselves reflecting on the decision to stop being together, while the Christmas season is hard for Ian after the loss of his sister Ian comes to realize that Melissa may be the only one who can help him move on from the loss of his sister and finally find happiness. This was a really nice short story that I wish was longer because I liked Ian and Melissa so much. I loved that they had a past together so that it wasn't an insta love. This was a all around great story.
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Ahh how I love Kristen Ashley she is my very favorite author so when I saw this I knew I had to read it. In this short story we visit the Allen family at Christmas. Tack, Tyra, Shy, Tabby, Rush, Landon, Ryder and Cutter are all together for the Holiday. Tabby is so excited to be with her family for Christmas but she also knows that the memory of Shy and Landon's family makes this season hard on them. But with the love of the Allen family both brothers finally find happiness at Christmas. This was a great read it was great to see Shy and Tabby as well as Tack and Tyra(of course) but I loved seeing Cutter and Ryder, and then getting anything Rush and Landon makes me both happy and excited for each of their books.
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Maryanne is a single mother down on her luck with no other place to turn than her cousin's farm that she hasn't been to since she was a girl. When Maryanne runs out of gas she accidentally walks to the wrong home. Daniel only came home to sell his family home, he never intended to find Maryanne and her son Joshua. When Daniel offers Maryanne a place to stay they never would have thought they would have found everything they needed in the other. This was a sweet story about two hurt people who find love in each other, I only wish that we would have gotten more time past in the story so that their love could have felt more solid and not rushed. But overall this was a sweet story of three people who find a family in each other.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln can't believe his eyes or his ears when he opens the door and finds Dinah sent to him by his mother to organize his house and to get it ready for Christmas. Lincoln wants nothing to do with it but after speaking to his mother agrees. The more time Lincoln and Dinah spend together the more Linc finds that he not only doesn't mind the changes Dinah has made but that he also starts to fall in love with Dinah. This was a funny fun story, that just left me happy and a smile on my face. Molly Cannon did a great job getting me connected to the characters and invested in their lives and a happy outcome for them both.
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: Jared decided to go against family tradition and be a rural family author instead of a high priced specialist physician. He planned to fulfill his two year contract and then return home to New York he never thought he would meet anyone like Ilena especially not in her elf costume. Ilena loves Christmas and plans on having a great first Christmas with her son. When she see's Jared she is instantly attracted to him and after time together decides it is time to move past the death of her husband. As Jared and Ilena spend more time together Ilena finds herself falling in love and Jared finds himself not only in love with Ilena but with her young son John as well. But soon Jared will have to decide if he is ready to put roots in the small town and promise forever to both Ilena and John. I really liked this one I loved Ilena and Jared. Even though the story was short I never felt like I was missing anything but i would have liked a full length story just because it was so good. This was a great story that ended to quickly.
Another great bonus this this book that each author has posted a snippet after their short story of either a book that they have already written or a book that will be coming out. I completely enjoyed this book some more other but all of them were worth the read. This is a great Compilation of Christmas stories.
*Thank yo Netgalley and Hachette Book Group/Forever Yours for this ARC copy.
Merged review:
This one is hard to rate for me because some were great and some were good. I wanted this book for Kristen Ashley's contribution and in fact I have pre-ordered this book and will still buy it even though I was given an ARC copy. But I must say a nice bonus for me was to get introduced to some authors that I had never read and some that I had never heard of. I have found some new authors that I will be reading books from in the future. Overall this was a nice compilation book with fun Christmas stories that left me happy and ready for the Christmas season.
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Ian and Melissa were involved but called it quits each with regrets and both wishing they were still together. When Ian is called out for a fire he is shocked and terrified when he hears it is Melissa's apartment building. After Ian rescues Melissa they both find themselves reflecting on the decision to stop being together, while the Christmas season is hard for Ian after the loss of his sister Ian comes to realize that Melissa may be the only one who can help him move on from the loss of his sister and finally find happiness. This was a really nice short story that I wish was longer because I liked Ian and Melissa so much. I loved that they had a past together so that it wasn't an insta love. This was a all around great story.
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Ahh how I love Kristen Ashley she is my very favorite author so when I saw this I knew I had to read it. In this short story we visit the Allen family at Christmas. Tack, Tyra, Shy, Tabby, Rush, Landon, Ryder and Cutter are all together for the Holiday. Tabby is so excited to be with her family for Christmas but she also knows that the memory of Shy and Landon's family makes this season hard on them. But with the love of the Allen family both brothers finally find happiness at Christmas. This was a great read it was great to see Shy and Tabby as well as Tack and Tyra(of course) but I loved seeing Cutter and Ryder, and then getting anything Rush and Landon makes me both happy and excited for each of their books.
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Maryanne is a single mother down on her luck with no other place to turn than her cousin's farm that she hasn't been to since she was a girl. When Maryanne runs out of gas she accidentally walks to the wrong home. Daniel only came home to sell his family home, he never intended to find Maryanne and her son Joshua. When Daniel offers Maryanne a place to stay they never would have thought they would have found everything they needed in the other. This was a sweet story about two hurt people who find love in each other, I only wish that we would have gotten more time past in the story so that their love could have felt more solid and not rushed. But overall this was a sweet story of three people who find a family in each other.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln can't believe his eyes or his ears when he opens the door and finds Dinah sent to him by his mother to organize his house and to get it ready for Christmas. Lincoln wants nothing to do with it but after speaking to his mother agrees. The more time Lincoln and Dinah spend together the more Linc finds that he not only doesn't mind the changes Dinah has made but that he also starts to fall in love with Dinah. This was a funny fun story, that just left me happy and a smile on my face. Molly Cannon did a great job getting me connected to the characters and invested in their lives and a happy outcome for them both.
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: Jared decided to go against family tradition and be a rural family author instead of a high priced specialist physician. He planned to fulfill his two year contract and then return home to New York he never thought he would meet anyone like Ilena especially not in her elf costume. Ilena loves Christmas and plans on having a great first Christmas with her son. When she see's Jared she is instantly attracted to him and after time together decides it is time to move past the death of her husband. As Jared and Ilena spend more time together Ilena finds herself falling in love and Jared finds himself not only in love with Ilena but with her young son John as well. But soon Jared will have to decide if he is ready to put roots in the small town and promise forever to both Ilena and John. I really liked this one I loved Ilena and Jared. Even though the story was short I never felt like I was missing anything but i would have liked a full length story just because it was so good. This was a great story that ended to quickly.
Another great bonus this this book that each author has posted a snippet after their short story of either a book that they have already written or a book that will be coming out. I completely enjoyed this book some more other but all of them were worth the read. This is a great Compilation of Christmas stories.
*Thank yo Netgalley and Hachette Book Group/Forever Yours for this ARC copy.
December 4, 2013
I received this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Five Christmas stories by romance authors. I really wanted this for the Kristen Ashley story, but since I did receive it for the purposes of review I read them all. Following are my impressions:
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Melissa has kept every man at a safe distance-especially firefighter Ian, a sexy friend with sexy benefits. But Ian secretly longs for more. Luckily, 'tis the season for giving love a chance . . . (all story descriptions are from blurb)
I've never read Jill Shalvis although she's on my short list of authors to try soon. I knew that this would be one of the better stories because it was from an established and popular series and, from what I've read in my friends' reviews of her work, she's very competent. I was not wrong. It's one of the better stories in the anthology. One plus was that it was not instalove or kismet, it was a couple who had gotten together previously and were trying to work through feelings for one another with the holidays (and some painful issues) in the background.
I had saved this story for last (I read the Ashley first) because I wanted to make sure I ended the book on a high note. Good call on my part, it turns out. I'll definitely be checking out this author sooner rather than later.
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Holidays don't come easy for Shy and his brother, Landon. But with the magic of Christmas, along with a little help from Tabby and her family, the Cage brothers are about to get the gift of a lifetime . . .
This is a poignant story of the first Christmas that Shy and his brother Landon spend with Tabby and the rest of the Allen family. It's the first Christmas in many years that they are part of a loving family and it's heartbreaking, funny and sweet. It's not the first story in the anthology, but I recommend starting here if you can.
Again, it's not instalove, we're checking in with a recently established couple and enjoying an event that was alluded to in their book. A nice way to do an anthology story, IMO.
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Down on her luck and evicted from her apartment, single mother Maryanne hopes to start over in Last Chance. When the snow begins to fall, it looks like her baby might literally spend Christmas Eve in a manger. And Maryanne might celebrate the holiday with a handsome stranger.
I started out liking this story and then it became tedious. Instalove with ups and downs within 24 hours ... it's just too much to overcome.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln is a bachelor who's set in his ways-until a professional organizer dressed up as Mrs. Claus changes his life, one tip at a time. . .
Not quite instalove, which made it succeed a little better for me. The hero goes through quite a change during the story and that's nice to see. The heroine is hard to pin down, seems possibly a bit flaky, but all-in-all it kind of worked. I can't say it's sending me out to find Molly Cannon books, but it wasn't annoying like the Hope Ramsey piece.
The couple meet in this story which poses a problem in the overall arc. There simply isn't enough time for them to truly get to know one another and for the reader to get to know them together for a story this short to be satisfying.
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: War widow Ilena doesn't mind spending Christmas alone. But when a new doctor blows into town with the winter wind, will she get her secret Christmas wish?
This one was poignant with the war widow angle. Always heart-wrenching. I liked the hero and the heroine, but as with the others where the couple had no history -- even though there was a little bit of time for these two to come together -- it feels incomplete and ultimately unsatisfying.
Sweet Christmas stories for anyone who's looking to get into the spirit of the season. I do recommend bookending the reading order with the Ashley and Shalvis, though. It's a better organizational scheme than what's in the book, IMO.
Five Christmas stories by romance authors. I really wanted this for the Kristen Ashley story, but since I did receive it for the purposes of review I read them all. Following are my impressions:
Jill Shalvis, Dream a Little Dream: Melissa has kept every man at a safe distance-especially firefighter Ian, a sexy friend with sexy benefits. But Ian secretly longs for more. Luckily, 'tis the season for giving love a chance . . . (all story descriptions are from blurb)
I've never read Jill Shalvis although she's on my short list of authors to try soon. I knew that this would be one of the better stories because it was from an established and popular series and, from what I've read in my friends' reviews of her work, she's very competent. I was not wrong. It's one of the better stories in the anthology. One plus was that it was not instalove or kismet, it was a couple who had gotten together previously and were trying to work through feelings for one another with the holidays (and some painful issues) in the background.
I had saved this story for last (I read the Ashley first) because I wanted to make sure I ended the book on a high note. Good call on my part, it turns out. I'll definitely be checking out this author sooner rather than later.
Kristen Ashley, Every Year: Holidays don't come easy for Shy and his brother, Landon. But with the magic of Christmas, along with a little help from Tabby and her family, the Cage brothers are about to get the gift of a lifetime . . .
This is a poignant story of the first Christmas that Shy and his brother Landon spend with Tabby and the rest of the Allen family. It's the first Christmas in many years that they are part of a loving family and it's heartbreaking, funny and sweet. It's not the first story in the anthology, but I recommend starting here if you can.
Again, it's not instalove, we're checking in with a recently established couple and enjoying an event that was alluded to in their book. A nice way to do an anthology story, IMO.
Hope Ramsay, Silent Night: Down on her luck and evicted from her apartment, single mother Maryanne hopes to start over in Last Chance. When the snow begins to fall, it looks like her baby might literally spend Christmas Eve in a manger. And Maryanne might celebrate the holiday with a handsome stranger.
I started out liking this story and then it became tedious. Instalove with ups and downs within 24 hours ... it's just too much to overcome.
Molly Cannon, Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas: Lincoln is a bachelor who's set in his ways-until a professional organizer dressed up as Mrs. Claus changes his life, one tip at a time. . .
Not quite instalove, which made it succeed a little better for me. The hero goes through quite a change during the story and that's nice to see. The heroine is hard to pin down, seems possibly a bit flaky, but all-in-all it kind of worked. I can't say it's sending me out to find Molly Cannon books, but it wasn't annoying like the Hope Ramsey piece.
The couple meet in this story which poses a problem in the overall arc. There simply isn't enough time for them to truly get to know one another and for the reader to get to know them together for a story this short to be satisfying.
Marilyn Pappano, A Family for Christmas: War widow Ilena doesn't mind spending Christmas alone. But when a new doctor blows into town with the winter wind, will she get her secret Christmas wish?
This one was poignant with the war widow angle. Always heart-wrenching. I liked the hero and the heroine, but as with the others where the couple had no history -- even though there was a little bit of time for these two to come together -- it feels incomplete and ultimately unsatisfying.
Sweet Christmas stories for anyone who's looking to get into the spirit of the season. I do recommend bookending the reading order with the Ashley and Shalvis, though. It's a better organizational scheme than what's in the book, IMO.
January 7, 2020
Solo leí la historia de Jill Shalvis...
Estuvo lindo y entretenido, una historia cortica para este tiempo navideño!!
Estuvo lindo y entretenido, una historia cortica para este tiempo navideño!!
February 13, 2018
I read this in an anthology. It was a cute read as I always love the Chaos bunch. Tab and Shy are my fave's from this series- so more of them in a book, you can't go wrong.
Merged review:
Dream a Little Dream ★★★★
I really loved Jill's story. The couple drew me in and captured my heart. I even had teary eyes in a few scenes. I would have loved to see more of this couple and their time together. However, at the same time, I felt like Jill did a great job in bringing out such deep emotions with her characters in such a short story. I fell in love with Melissa and Ian from the get go. It was more realistic and I loved that they had a past history which makes for a believable out come.
Every Year ★★★
Kristen's story made me happy to see Landon and Shy make a new happy memory with a new loving family for the holidays. I would have liked a little more of a deeper moment with Landon and Shy during Christmas morning. I didn't feel the connection I was hoping to have between the brothers and during such a hard time for them, as they aren't used to expressing or feeling the holiday spirits or love.
Silent Night ★★
Hope's story had two people finding second chances at life and a family. Even though it was a little far fetched and rushed, as far as their feelings go, I'm glad the way it ended between the couple. I really liked the instant connection they felt. Too bad the story wasn't a bit longer for their feelings to develop at a slower pace.
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas ★★★
With Molly's story, I really liked how the couple spent time together and got to know each other. I liked how Dinah didn't hold back from what she wanted, for the most part. I really liked the ending scene at the hospital and the potential they have at becoming more of a couple.
A Family for Christmas ★★★★
I really enjoyed Marilyn's book. I could feel the feelings and emotions, so she did a good job pulling me in from that aspect. I liked how the couple, and her son, spent as much time together as they could. I would have liked a little more time passing with the couple together as it would have made their declarations a bit more believable for me. However, I liked the ending a lot, even if it was such a short time they had known each other. This book has great potential had it been a bit longer and more time frame was used between the couple. I also appreciated that Jared and Ilena didn't play head games and went for what they wanted with each other.
Book provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
Merged review:
Dream a Little Dream ★★★★
I really loved Jill's story. The couple drew me in and captured my heart. I even had teary eyes in a few scenes. I would have loved to see more of this couple and their time together. However, at the same time, I felt like Jill did a great job in bringing out such deep emotions with her characters in such a short story. I fell in love with Melissa and Ian from the get go. It was more realistic and I loved that they had a past history which makes for a believable out come.
Every Year ★★★
Kristen's story made me happy to see Landon and Shy make a new happy memory with a new loving family for the holidays. I would have liked a little more of a deeper moment with Landon and Shy during Christmas morning. I didn't feel the connection I was hoping to have between the brothers and during such a hard time for them, as they aren't used to expressing or feeling the holiday spirits or love.
Silent Night ★★
Hope's story had two people finding second chances at life and a family. Even though it was a little far fetched and rushed, as far as their feelings go, I'm glad the way it ended between the couple. I really liked the instant connection they felt. Too bad the story wasn't a bit longer for their feelings to develop at a slower pace.
Have Yourself a Messy Little Christmas ★★★
With Molly's story, I really liked how the couple spent time together and got to know each other. I liked how Dinah didn't hold back from what she wanted, for the most part. I really liked the ending scene at the hospital and the potential they have at becoming more of a couple.
A Family for Christmas ★★★★
I really enjoyed Marilyn's book. I could feel the feelings and emotions, so she did a good job pulling me in from that aspect. I liked how the couple, and her son, spent as much time together as they could. I would have liked a little more time passing with the couple together as it would have made their declarations a bit more believable for me. However, I liked the ending a lot, even if it was such a short time they had known each other. This book has great potential had it been a bit longer and more time frame was used between the couple. I also appreciated that Jared and Ilena didn't play head games and went for what they wanted with each other.
Book provided by Netgalley for an honest review.
February 23, 2015
OK, so I got this just because of the Kristen Ashley Chaos novella, but managed to squeeze a couple of the other stories in too.
Dream a Little Dream - Jill Shalvis
Former lovers are reunited on Christmas Eve when sexy firefighter Ian is called to a house fire that just happens to be in the apartment block of the woman he still desperately loves, Melissa. Tired of being pushed away, Ian takes the opportunity to set things straight, provoking lots of swoon and some steamy time. But Melissa isn’t the only one holding back.
I’ve never read anything by Jill Shalvis, although of course I have heard of Lucky Harbor series. I enjoyed this novella, and will be adding the series to my tbr.
3 stars.
Every Year - Kristen Ashley
This takes place after Own the Wind, and gives us a glimpse into Christmas with the Allens. Tabby and Shy are together with Tack, Tyra, Rush, and their little brothers, as well as Shy’s brother Landon, to celebrate Christmas. KA gives us some fantastic family time as she takes us straight back into the mood of life with a bunch of badasses, mini badasses, and their strong and feisty women as Shy and Tabby celebrate their first Christmas together with some beautifully sweet moments, and a bit of hotness. Definitely one for the fans!
3 stars.
Silent Night – Hope Ramsay
A somewhat fast paced (and therefore unrealistic) story of a young, homeless, single mother searching out her only living relative, only to end up hiding out in the barn of a stranger on a stormy Christmas Eve. Rich, successful lawyer, Daniel, is at his parent’s farmhouse to prepare to sell it after their deaths. He is preparing for a drunken night of wallowing alone when he finds Maryanne and her three month old baby hiding in his barn. Unexpectedly brought together, this unlikely pair share a very special night, forcing them to reassess what they are doing with their lives. .
2 stars.
Dream a Little Dream - Jill Shalvis
Former lovers are reunited on Christmas Eve when sexy firefighter Ian is called to a house fire that just happens to be in the apartment block of the woman he still desperately loves, Melissa. Tired of being pushed away, Ian takes the opportunity to set things straight, provoking lots of swoon and some steamy time. But Melissa isn’t the only one holding back.
I’ve never read anything by Jill Shalvis, although of course I have heard of Lucky Harbor series. I enjoyed this novella, and will be adding the series to my tbr.
3 stars.
Every Year - Kristen Ashley
This takes place after Own the Wind, and gives us a glimpse into Christmas with the Allens. Tabby and Shy are together with Tack, Tyra, Rush, and their little brothers, as well as Shy’s brother Landon, to celebrate Christmas. KA gives us some fantastic family time as she takes us straight back into the mood of life with a bunch of badasses, mini badasses, and their strong and feisty women as Shy and Tabby celebrate their first Christmas together with some beautifully sweet moments, and a bit of hotness. Definitely one for the fans!
3 stars.
Silent Night – Hope Ramsay
A somewhat fast paced (and therefore unrealistic) story of a young, homeless, single mother searching out her only living relative, only to end up hiding out in the barn of a stranger on a stormy Christmas Eve. Rich, successful lawyer, Daniel, is at his parent’s farmhouse to prepare to sell it after their deaths. He is preparing for a drunken night of wallowing alone when he finds Maryanne and her three month old baby hiding in his barn. Unexpectedly brought together, this unlikely pair share a very special night, forcing them to reassess what they are doing with their lives. .
2 stars.
December 2, 2013
4 Christmassy Stars
Review posted at http://romanceisoursecretpleasure.blo...
This review it's based only on the story Every Year by Kristen Ashley. As I never read any of the authors who took part in this collection and as i am suspecting that the stories are connected with other books i do not see the point reading something i will not understand properly.
Now getting back to "Every Year" i have to say that i loved it. As i do with most of Kristen Ashley books but this one is a bit more special and i tell you the reason why. Every book i can get my hands on and i can read more about Tyra and Tack it's a bonus for me. I love this two so much and i miss them even more. Seeing them together with Rider and Cutter it's a even bigger bonus and i have to say Tack still does wot he wants and talks as he wants even if Tyra throws him the usual glares but he does not care and get's away with it as per usual.
The story is written from Tabby's point of view and it describes the Christmas in the Allen family. It was a pleasure to see how their interaction hasn't changed at all, not even a bit since the last time we read their books. As usual Tabby is Tabby, happy over the moon in her relation ship with "Shy", a bigger friendship between her and Tyra and a bigger connection between her and "Tack". And Rush is just being his usual, who i think is going to be a replica of Tack and i am really but really hoping that he will have his own book.
Another addition to their family is Landon, "Shy" brother who seems to be around more when he has a leave from the army. And again i am hoping that KA will write his own book. He is such an interesting character and i really want to discover his secrets and see him happy.
Overall this it's the perfect book to read for the holiday season with so many other bonuses.
Recommend it read.
ARC courtesy to Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley
Review posted at http://romanceisoursecretpleasure.blo...
This review it's based only on the story Every Year by Kristen Ashley. As I never read any of the authors who took part in this collection and as i am suspecting that the stories are connected with other books i do not see the point reading something i will not understand properly.
Now getting back to "Every Year" i have to say that i loved it. As i do with most of Kristen Ashley books but this one is a bit more special and i tell you the reason why. Every book i can get my hands on and i can read more about Tyra and Tack it's a bonus for me. I love this two so much and i miss them even more. Seeing them together with Rider and Cutter it's a even bigger bonus and i have to say Tack still does wot he wants and talks as he wants even if Tyra throws him the usual glares but he does not care and get's away with it as per usual.
The story is written from Tabby's point of view and it describes the Christmas in the Allen family. It was a pleasure to see how their interaction hasn't changed at all, not even a bit since the last time we read their books. As usual Tabby is Tabby, happy over the moon in her relation ship with "Shy", a bigger friendship between her and Tyra and a bigger connection between her and "Tack". And Rush is just being his usual, who i think is going to be a replica of Tack and i am really but really hoping that he will have his own book.
Another addition to their family is Landon, "Shy" brother who seems to be around more when he has a leave from the army. And again i am hoping that KA will write his own book. He is such an interesting character and i really want to discover his secrets and see him happy.
Overall this it's the perfect book to read for the holiday season with so many other bonuses.
Recommend it read.
ARC courtesy to Grand Central Publishing via Netgalley
December 14, 2013
Jill Shalvis:
This was a cute story over all. Obviously rushed since it's a novella but cute nonetheless. I can't wait to read the next installment of I Jill Shalvis' series! Ian and Melissa dated for a while but she couldn't commit her heart because it had been shattered too many times so she denied her feelings for Ian. One night Ian got a call for a fire to put out at an apartment complex, being the sexy firefighter he is and rescued her she couldn't resist his charms and remembered all the great times they had together. With her almost near death experience she decides she wants to woo Ian back. Cute Christmas love story!
Kristen Ashley:
I love the continuation of Own the Wind! Getting more Tyra and Tack and a peak into the Christmas between Tabby and Shy is always a plus!! So ready for Rush's story!!
I didn't read the other stories because I don't know the back stories behind the novellas.
This was a cute story over all. Obviously rushed since it's a novella but cute nonetheless. I can't wait to read the next installment of I Jill Shalvis' series! Ian and Melissa dated for a while but she couldn't commit her heart because it had been shattered too many times so she denied her feelings for Ian. One night Ian got a call for a fire to put out at an apartment complex, being the sexy firefighter he is and rescued her she couldn't resist his charms and remembered all the great times they had together. With her almost near death experience she decides she wants to woo Ian back. Cute Christmas love story!
Kristen Ashley:
I love the continuation of Own the Wind! Getting more Tyra and Tack and a peak into the Christmas between Tabby and Shy is always a plus!! So ready for Rush's story!!
I didn't read the other stories because I don't know the back stories behind the novellas.
February 9, 2017
This is a collection of novellas that involve characters from a series by each author. Overall, it's one of the better collections I've read. Each one is just long enough - and they don't all end with ridiculous happily ever afters either.
I have to say, there was a line in Molly Cannon's story, A Messy Little Christmas, that had me laughing out loud for a full minute. That tells me that she's probably an author I would like. And that's the best thing about books like this one - they're a nice little taste of what that author is like.
There are also excerpts from books by each author in the back of the collection. For a book I picked up and paid only $1 for at Dollar Tree, this was a great read!
I have to say, there was a line in Molly Cannon's story, A Messy Little Christmas, that had me laughing out loud for a full minute. That tells me that she's probably an author I would like. And that's the best thing about books like this one - they're a nice little taste of what that author is like.
There are also excerpts from books by each author in the back of the collection. For a book I picked up and paid only $1 for at Dollar Tree, this was a great read!
January 30, 2016
*Chaos 2.5
ARC received from Netgalley to honest review.
Cute and exciting Christmas stories. I love especially the story written by Kristen Ashley!
Recommend to everyone!
----------------
Histórias de Natal fofas e emocionantes. Eu adores principalmente a história escrita pela Kristen Ashley!
Recomendo a todos!
ARC received from Netgalley to honest review.
Cute and exciting Christmas stories. I love especially the story written by Kristen Ashley!
Recommend to everyone!
----------------
Histórias de Natal fofas e emocionantes. Eu adores principalmente a história escrita pela Kristen Ashley!
Recomendo a todos!
December 7, 2013
5 star for Kristen Ashley, loved this novella. It was great to have these characters come back. A must read for any K.A. fan
The other stories didn't hit the high stars for me personally, so I'm rating this a 3.
The other stories didn't hit the high stars for me personally, so I'm rating this a 3.
June 11, 2015
Only read Chaos Story by Kristen Ashley
and of course loved :)
and of course loved :)
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