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The Trouble With Elves
A story from the Dreamspinner Press 2013 Advent Calendar collection Heartwarming.
Cal Martin loathes Christmas music, especially the clichéd carols pumped through the mall speakers on endless loop. Even worse is the holiday-themed hell of Santa's Village that looms right in front of the sports store he manages. It's yet another hurdle for Cal as he tries to survive the world of retail during the soul-sucking holiday season… until he catches a glimpse of one of Santa's elves and becomes infatuated with the cheery, gorgeous guy dressed in candy-cane tights.
Of course, just walking up to the guy and asking him out isn't easy, and a botched attempt at matchmaking ends up turning a simple courtship into a mess for the gossip page. What can Cal do to overcome his social ineptitude, correct erroneous assumptions, and maybe have a merry little Christmas of his own?
Cal Martin loathes Christmas music, especially the clichéd carols pumped through the mall speakers on endless loop. Even worse is the holiday-themed hell of Santa's Village that looms right in front of the sports store he manages. It's yet another hurdle for Cal as he tries to survive the world of retail during the soul-sucking holiday season… until he catches a glimpse of one of Santa's elves and becomes infatuated with the cheery, gorgeous guy dressed in candy-cane tights.
Of course, just walking up to the guy and asking him out isn't easy, and a botched attempt at matchmaking ends up turning a simple courtship into a mess for the gossip page. What can Cal do to overcome his social ineptitude, correct erroneous assumptions, and maybe have a merry little Christmas of his own?
56 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 30, 2013
2 people are currently reading
322 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 124 reviews
December 1, 2017
Cross-posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews
Cal is a former baseball player with a bad knee now managing a sporting goods store at the local mall.
Though he hates Christmas music and actively avoids the Santa’s Village near his store, a certain elf has captured his interest.
This was adorable, sweet, and funny, with just enough problems and misunderstandings to counteract the sugar.
I adored all the characters, even the annoying ones, and loved the perfect ending.
A holiday treat that can be enjoyed all year long.
Thanks to Lisa from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.
Cal is a former baseball player with a bad knee now managing a sporting goods store at the local mall.
Though he hates Christmas music and actively avoids the Santa’s Village near his store, a certain elf has captured his interest.
This was adorable, sweet, and funny, with just enough problems and misunderstandings to counteract the sugar.
I adored all the characters, even the annoying ones, and loved the perfect ending.
A holiday treat that can be enjoyed all year long.
Thanks to Lisa from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.
September 1, 2016
This little gem is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours.
I'm a sucker for an adorable holiday story, and this totally fit the bill. I had a huge goofy grin on my face the entire time I was listening.
This is a simple, cute story about a ex-jock finding romance while working at the mall. The chemistry between the two MCs was "awww"-worthy, and Cal and his brother were winning combination. It was just the kind of story that wiggles into your heart and gives you those warm, fuzzy feelings.
And the narrator, newbie Ryan Kennard Burke, did an awesome job! He was age-appropriate sounding and did a fantastic job with the range of voices. Very nicely done.
All in all, you can't go wrong with this one. It is the perfect story for Christmas-time, or if you don't mind people looking at you like you're crazy because you are singing carols in September.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
December 13, 2015
~3.5~
TOTES ADORBS.
One grumpy ex-baseball player with a bum knee who despises Christmas music
PLUS
One musician cum Santa's elf with dimples
=
Charm & Cheer galore
This is a true feel-good story: sweet and VERY funny. Both Cal and Xander (not to be confused with Alex!) are such endearing characters.
I'm knocking off half a star for zero steam (one fade to black scene) and a rather abrupt ending.
TOTES ADORBS.
One grumpy ex-baseball player with a bum knee who despises Christmas music
PLUS
One musician cum Santa's elf with dimples
=
Charm & Cheer galore
This is a true feel-good story: sweet and VERY funny. Both Cal and Xander (not to be confused with Alex!) are such endearing characters.
I'm knocking off half a star for zero steam (one fade to black scene) and a rather abrupt ending.
December 20, 2020
Re-read December 202
Only 60 pages, but it still felt like an entire story.
Pretty cute and perfect for this time of year.
Only 60 pages, but it still felt like an entire story.
Pretty cute and perfect for this time of year.
December 3, 2021
Well, well, well….look what I found in my Goodreads x-mas stocking. A full-on holiday hum along to the music gem! Therese Woodson just hit my authors to
The Trouble with Elves holds one of my all-time favorites…the adorable guy in headphones completely lost in his bubble of beats, bobs, and notes. His body sways and taps. Eyes closed. Lips moving to words and music only he can hear. *sigh* Wrap me up and slap a *swoon* sticker on me! I’m a goner. That look on a musician or music lover’s face is pure, pure magic to me. I can see so much of his heart and soul in that expression. THAT look is one of my favorite things to come across in life. And boy-OH-boy did Ms. Woodson capture it here!
Let me back up though. The Trouble with Elves introduces us to a very scary land—the mall at Christmas time! The fun revolves around brothers Brock and Cal and a bit of elf magic and mishap. Cal, once a star athlete, is now managing a sporting goods store at the mall. He is a little lost in life at the moment, but trying so hard to heal and move on when…an elf looks, waves, and smiles his way. Boom! The fun, sparks, and goofy grins kick off from there! I mean really how many of us can say…”Meet me behind the gingerbread house.” :D I really don’t want to say much more about the “trouble”. It would spoil all the fun! Just jump in and read!
But I do want to send Brock some love. The little scene stealer could do it all! From action to jokes! Cal and Brock were hilarious together. I loved their sleepy drives into work and conversation. Every joke, one liner, and jab made me laugh, smile, and “awww”. Woodson captured the bro-banter energy and tone perfectly! You will feel how much these two love each other in everything they do.
Highly recommended holiday fun that will have you humming Christmas carols with a smile on your face and an extra beat to your heart.
December 2021 re-read:
LOVED it even more!
November 29, 2014
This was the second story from Therese Woodson after Twelve Tasks and I loved it as well. It was pleasantly entertaining, low on angst, had a great brothers relationship, with lively atmosphere of people working at a Mall.
Cal was a grouch when it came to Christmas celebration (especially Christmas music) until he had a major crush on an elf who worked at Santa's Village and played Christmas songs. Cal was cute in his ill-fated way to try to deal with his crush and avoid an attempt of dreadful matchmaking. I thought Cal could solve it way quicker if he could just tell his employee about his sexual preference -- but I was able to dismiss my annoyance because it was quite amusing to read how Cal spluttered over it and fumbled to tell his crush about what was actually going on.
I loved the mall ambiance as Cal, Brock, and Cal's crush work there. I always enjoy stories that set in retail places like Malls, Coffee Shop, Bakery, restaurants, etc. Because they're places that feel down to earth and it is fun to know about relationship that happens at those places.
By the way, yes, I keep saying Cal's crush, right? Not the name -- well, there was a case of mistaken identity here, and mentioning the name would be some sort of spoiler *grin*.
Another favorite thing in this story was also the relationship that Cal had with his younger brother, Brock. I love reading stories about siblings -- especially brothers or brothers-sisters, simply because I only have a sister myself. It was delightful reading their conversations and how Cal was looking for advice from Brock. Or when they planned on how to deal with conversations with their Dad and his wife (their parents were divorced, apparently)
In short, another winner from DSP Advent this year (I didn't buy the whole package) -- I feel like my mood is lifted with all these holiday shorts/novellas I read in the past couple of days. Hopefully I keep getting good ones and I am definitely looking forward to Ms. Woodson's next stories.
Cal was a grouch when it came to Christmas celebration (especially Christmas music) until he had a major crush on an elf who worked at Santa's Village and played Christmas songs. Cal was cute in his ill-fated way to try to deal with his crush and avoid an attempt of dreadful matchmaking. I thought Cal could solve it way quicker if he could just tell his employee about his sexual preference -- but I was able to dismiss my annoyance because it was quite amusing to read how Cal spluttered over it and fumbled to tell his crush about what was actually going on.
I loved the mall ambiance as Cal, Brock, and Cal's crush work there. I always enjoy stories that set in retail places like Malls, Coffee Shop, Bakery, restaurants, etc. Because they're places that feel down to earth and it is fun to know about relationship that happens at those places.
By the way, yes, I keep saying Cal's crush, right? Not the name -- well, there was a case of mistaken identity here, and mentioning the name would be some sort of spoiler *grin*.
Another favorite thing in this story was also the relationship that Cal had with his younger brother, Brock. I love reading stories about siblings -- especially brothers or brothers-sisters, simply because I only have a sister myself. It was delightful reading their conversations and how Cal was looking for advice from Brock. Or when they planned on how to deal with conversations with their Dad and his wife (their parents were divorced, apparently)
“So when Dad launches in about baseball,” Cal said, toeing at a misplaced brick on the sidewalk.
“I swoop in and remind him of my questionable choices regarding traffic violations.”
Cal nodded. “Good choice. Nothing gets him more riled than the fact that you don’t drive anymore.”
Brock nudged Cal with his shoulder. “And when Sandy starts talking about the neighbor’s sister’s daughter who is so sweet and nice…”
“I comment on the neighbor’s sister’s son’s ass and remind her that I’m gay.”
Brock held out a fist. “Fist bump of solidarity, bro.”
In short, another winner from DSP Advent this year (I didn't buy the whole package) -- I feel like my mood is lifted with all these holiday shorts/novellas I read in the past couple of days. Hopefully I keep getting good ones and I am definitely looking forward to Ms. Woodson's next stories.
December 31, 2015
This short 78-page novella from Christmas 2014 was light, fluffy and enjoyable.
At 24, Cal is an ex-baseball player, whose dreams of going pro dissolved after a major knee injury, so now he is (mostly) happy to manage a sporting goods store at the mall.
But Cal pretty much hates all things Christmas, especially the season's 'cheerful' music piped through the mall for months leading up to the holiday.
Until he becomes infatuated with one of Santa's helpers and hears him singing those exact same annoyingly-cheesy Christmas songs, that is.
The gist of the story is basically a case of mistaken identity. Sort of. But not really. But sort of.
I'm not going to do the spoiler thing and ruin the story for you, but the first two-thirds of the book was one big comedy of errors and very cute.
In addition to the adorable, awkward flirtations between the two MC's, one of the best parts of the book was Cal's interactions with his extremely supportive little brother, Brock.
Brock. Was. The. Shit. Full stop. Unlike a lot of secondary characters, who I've seen distract from a story's main focus, Brock added a lot of humor to the story, without trying to steal the show. I completely loved him.
As for the steam, there was really only one rather hot (frotting) scene, but the MC's were way too cotton candy and peppermint stick sweet to be humping like cracked out bunnies, so the steam level felt appropriate.
Also, there was no real angst or unnecessary theatrics, so this one rates around 4 *cute-and-cuddly* stars for me, but I did feel that the HFN ending was a tad bit abrupt.
--------------------------------------------------
My copy of the story was provided by the publishers in exchange for a fair, unbiased review.
December 16, 2013
This is such a cute little story.
Cal is the shift manager at the Sports store at the mall. He had plans for his life, but as it sometimes happens, it didn't work out. I liked that although it bothers him and it's still there, making his heart heavy, it doesn't ruin his life.
His annoyance and dislike of Christmas music, the hassle, the Santa workshop with Rudolf and his blinking nose right in front of his store is palatable.
That is until he sees one of Santa's helpers...yum..
There is a cute misunderstanding/mixup and I was so happy when that got resolved *snicker* and so was Cal and his crush!
Brock, Cal's brother is a perfect sidekick.
Fun way to start my morning and once again makes me happy I don't really do the crazy mall shopping. ;)
Cal is the shift manager at the Sports store at the mall. He had plans for his life, but as it sometimes happens, it didn't work out. I liked that although it bothers him and it's still there, making his heart heavy, it doesn't ruin his life.
His annoyance and dislike of Christmas music, the hassle, the Santa workshop with Rudolf and his blinking nose right in front of his store is palatable.
That is until he sees one of Santa's helpers...yum..
There is a cute misunderstanding/mixup and I was so happy when that got resolved *snicker* and so was Cal and his crush!
Brock, Cal's brother is a perfect sidekick.
Fun way to start my morning and once again makes me happy I don't really do the crazy mall shopping. ;)
December 17, 2013
This is a delightful Christmas romance with lots of humor and sizzle. I loved the two MCs and the whole misunderstanding with Alex/Zander made for some funny scenes. One of my favorite in the DSP advent this year so far. I will be looking for more by Therese Woodson.
December 25, 2013
So, I’ve had a ridiculously goofy grin on my face the entire time I read this story…neverthemind that I’m sitting at home, alone, no one around, and just…smiling as wide as can be.
This story was so FREAKING adorable and sweet. And my heart felt full and happy. I adored Cal and Xander…and Brock…what a great younger brother character! The banter between all of them and the camaraderie and the obvious affection was both realistic and entertaining.
I had my hesitations: I don’t like stories, necessarily, about musicians nor do I like stories about athletes. And anything that describes retail life during the holidays at a mall gives me hives as I remember my teenaged past and also the pains of the present and facing holiday shopping. I didn’t want to read this, actually. But I’m so glad I did. The musician + athlete storyline did not headline and was really a secondary consideration. It was all about the character interaction, the mall itself playing a role as well.
Therese Woodson is a new-to-me author and I really like her voice. The characters were likable, yet imperfect and the dialogue and descriptors grabbed my attention and kept it. The quick friends-to-lovers relationship was charming and I loved every interaction with Cal & Xander…every single glance, wave, blush, and more.
Now, obviously, being this smitten by the story, my one complaint is that it’s too short!!! And it ended too abrubtly! And I. WANT. MORE…of these guys! I want to know what Cal decides for his life. I want to see Xander step into his role as music teacher. I want more of Brock. Pretty please?!
January 9, 2016
First: Super cyber tackle hug to my friend Susan for giving me this adorable & fun book!
Cal is a grumpy store manager around Christmas time. His dislike for Christmas music doesn't help his already foul mood, especially when they are being played on a constant loop. And to top it off, Santas Village with its bright and cheerful lights sets up shop right infront of his sporting good store.
But coming into work during the dreadful holiday season starts looking up the day he nitoces an elf with a never ending smile and a very form fitting elf costume.
And if wasn't for Brock, Cal's younger, direct, and funny brother these two would probably still be secretly crushing and stealing glances.
Cal shrugged. "I don't know. He's a little out of my league."
Brock shoved a finger in Cal's chest and poked him. It hurt, and Cal batted Brock's hand away with a scowl. "No one is out of your league. I may not bat for your team, but even I know you're hot. We share the same genes, and I'm gorgeous, so it's mathematically impossible for you not to be smoking."
"You know what, Brock? I don't even know why I even asked you these things!"
"You ask me because when it comes to stuff like this, you are unbelievably dense!"
[...]
"Okay, what do you suggest?" He was proud of himself for managing an even tone.
"Go out there and tell the guy you want to rub fucks together."
"Brock!" Cal yelled, voice strangled. "I'm not going to say that!"
Brock huffed. "Fine, just, go get your man, bro. Man up. Tell him you like him."
Susan, thank you! Loved it!
Cal is a grumpy store manager around Christmas time. His dislike for Christmas music doesn't help his already foul mood, especially when they are being played on a constant loop. And to top it off, Santas Village with its bright and cheerful lights sets up shop right infront of his sporting good store.
But coming into work during the dreadful holiday season starts looking up the day he nitoces an elf with a never ending smile and a very form fitting elf costume.
And if wasn't for Brock, Cal's younger, direct, and funny brother these two would probably still be secretly crushing and stealing glances.
Cal shrugged. "I don't know. He's a little out of my league."
Brock shoved a finger in Cal's chest and poked him. It hurt, and Cal batted Brock's hand away with a scowl. "No one is out of your league. I may not bat for your team, but even I know you're hot. We share the same genes, and I'm gorgeous, so it's mathematically impossible for you not to be smoking."
"You know what, Brock? I don't even know why I even asked you these things!"
"You ask me because when it comes to stuff like this, you are unbelievably dense!"
[...]
"Okay, what do you suggest?" He was proud of himself for managing an even tone.
"Go out there and tell the guy you want to rub fucks together."
"Brock!" Cal yelled, voice strangled. "I'm not going to say that!"
Brock huffed. "Fine, just, go get your man, bro. Man up. Tell him you like him."
Susan, thank you! Loved it!
December 28, 2014
This little gem of a book gets all the stars, because it is wonderful!!!
I actually read most of it at night, and found myself giggling or straight up laughing like an idiot more often than not, both of which were probably not appreciated by anyone who was sleeping in my house.
I loved everything about it! Cal and his hatred of Christmas, especially Christmas songs, Xander being so adorable I just wanted to hug him, and Brock! Oh, how I adored Brock. He was hilarious and his conversations with Cal killed me.
“So when Dad launches in about baseball,” Cal said, toeing at a misplaced brick on the sidewalk.
“I swoop in and remind him of my questionable choices regarding traffic violations.”
Cal nodded. “Good choice. Nothing gets him more riled than the fact that you don’t drive anymore.”
Brock nudged Cal with his shoulder. “And when Sandy starts talking about the neighbor’s sister’s daughter who is so sweet and nice….”
“I comment on the neighbor’s sister’s son’s ass and remind her that I’m gay.”
Brock held out a fist. “Fist bump of solidarity, bro.”
Cal thumped his knuckles against Brock’s. “We only survive together.”
So, I recommend this feel-good story 100 %! :)
I actually read most of it at night, and found myself giggling or straight up laughing like an idiot more often than not, both of which were probably not appreciated by anyone who was sleeping in my house.
I loved everything about it! Cal and his hatred of Christmas, especially Christmas songs, Xander being so adorable I just wanted to hug him, and Brock! Oh, how I adored Brock. He was hilarious and his conversations with Cal killed me.
“So when Dad launches in about baseball,” Cal said, toeing at a misplaced brick on the sidewalk.
“I swoop in and remind him of my questionable choices regarding traffic violations.”
Cal nodded. “Good choice. Nothing gets him more riled than the fact that you don’t drive anymore.”
Brock nudged Cal with his shoulder. “And when Sandy starts talking about the neighbor’s sister’s daughter who is so sweet and nice….”
“I comment on the neighbor’s sister’s son’s ass and remind her that I’m gay.”
Brock held out a fist. “Fist bump of solidarity, bro.”
Cal thumped his knuckles against Brock’s. “We only survive together.”
So, I recommend this feel-good story 100 %! :)
July 26, 2016
Really enjoyable holiday story. I enjoyed the Cal and Brock brother banter very much and the whole Alex misunderstanding had me laughing. Clever twist. Very warm-hearted tale and I'd love to see what happens to the guys down the road.
March 15, 2016
3.5 Stars
Short and sweet. A lovely little Christmas read.
Short and sweet. A lovely little Christmas read.
September 18, 2023
4.5
Very cute.
Very cute.
December 19, 2014
Very cute and funny Christmas shorty! Loved it!
Though I have to say Brock made my day! The 5th star was added just for him!
Also the MCs were extremely lovebale!
Though I have to say Brock made my day! The 5th star was added just for him!
Also the MCs were extremely lovebale!
December 9, 2013
Therese Woodson has made it on to my very short list of auto-buys now. Between this and Twelve Tasks, I know I can go to her for my ‘open for instant happiness’ place. Her books make me laugh, they make me smile and they make me sigh when they are over. She’s sweet but not overly sappy.
Cal Martin is a former major leagues baseball player working as a manager in a sports store in the mall during the holiday shopping season. He hates the Christmas music during this time of the year, the crowds, the hours etc. Before Black Friday he looks across from his store at Santa’s Village and sees a gorgeous elf and it’s not just the guy’s looks that attract him. It’s his open, friendly face and the passion and love he has for music.
Their initial encounters are awkward, sweet and charming, and ultimately very real. There is a little mix-up hilarity but things work out fine and I just ADORED their chemistry and that initial rush of attraction and happiness. These two are just perfect together and I want a full-length novel with them pronto.
Cal Martin is a former major leagues baseball player working as a manager in a sports store in the mall during the holiday shopping season. He hates the Christmas music during this time of the year, the crowds, the hours etc. Before Black Friday he looks across from his store at Santa’s Village and sees a gorgeous elf and it’s not just the guy’s looks that attract him. It’s his open, friendly face and the passion and love he has for music.
Their initial encounters are awkward, sweet and charming, and ultimately very real. There is a little mix-up hilarity but things work out fine and I just ADORED their chemistry and that initial rush of attraction and happiness. These two are just perfect together and I want a full-length novel with them pronto.
December 28, 2013
Adorable and perfect to counteract that anti-Holiday grump that rears up in all of us. Fluffy, but funny. Not complicated, just enjoy and smile.
December 14, 2013
THANK YOU SO MUCH TO THE MYSTERY ELF WHO SENT ME THIS TODAY
What an awesome surprise and a great way to start the weekend. You made my day!
My Mystery Elf knows me well.
I do love cute and sweet stories, but only when they are heavily laced with smark and this one had it. Cal was so endearing in his holiday grumpiness. The guy works at a mall during the holidays, can you blame him? I love when a character gets irrationally irritated and grumbles at inanimate things. He is completely over the Christmas music that follows him everywhere and when his brother asks him "What did Brenda Lee ever do to you?" when Cal abruptly cuts off the strains of Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree on the car stereo Cal replies
"She sang a song with too many syllables crammed into one line."
Cal doesn't expect to become smitten with the adorable elf, Xander, working Santa's Village in front of his store and his adorably awkward flirting made me love him all the more. Even he says "He'd never been smooth. Ever." Misunderstandings commence, but nothing irritatingly angsty, just pretty realistic actually and it all handled well and amusingly by Cal and Xander.
Special shout out to Brock, Cal's brother and roommate. I would read a book just about him. He was a great character that added a lot to the story. He's there to boost Cal's spirits but also keep him grounded. Cal is commenting that Xander is out of his league and I loved Brock's response,
"No one is out of your league. I may not bat for your team, but even I know your hot. We share the same genes, and I'm gorgeous, so it's mathematically impossible for you not to be smoking."
I wasn't ready for this one to end! Although you kind of expect it with the Christmas novellas, but I really didn't want this one to end. Highly recommended and I will definitely be rereading.
What an awesome surprise and a great way to start the weekend. You made my day!
My Mystery Elf knows me well.
I do love cute and sweet stories, but only when they are heavily laced with smark and this one had it. Cal was so endearing in his holiday grumpiness. The guy works at a mall during the holidays, can you blame him? I love when a character gets irrationally irritated and grumbles at inanimate things. He is completely over the Christmas music that follows him everywhere and when his brother asks him "What did Brenda Lee ever do to you?" when Cal abruptly cuts off the strains of Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree on the car stereo Cal replies
"She sang a song with too many syllables crammed into one line."
Cal doesn't expect to become smitten with the adorable elf, Xander, working Santa's Village in front of his store and his adorably awkward flirting made me love him all the more. Even he says "He'd never been smooth. Ever." Misunderstandings commence, but nothing irritatingly angsty, just pretty realistic actually and it all handled well and amusingly by Cal and Xander.
Special shout out to Brock, Cal's brother and roommate. I would read a book just about him. He was a great character that added a lot to the story. He's there to boost Cal's spirits but also keep him grounded. Cal is commenting that Xander is out of his league and I loved Brock's response,
"No one is out of your league. I may not bat for your team, but even I know your hot. We share the same genes, and I'm gorgeous, so it's mathematically impossible for you not to be smoking."
I wasn't ready for this one to end! Although you kind of expect it with the Christmas novellas, but I really didn't want this one to end. Highly recommended and I will definitely be rereading.
December 21, 2014
Ooh man, this story made me feel all giddy!!!
Loved all the characters... Cal's vulnerbility, Xander's cuteness. And Brock, you ROCK!!!
Fantastic holiday read.
READ IT
Just wished there were more pages of Cal an Xander!!! Would love to read more of their HEA!!
Loved all the characters... Cal's vulnerbility, Xander's cuteness. And Brock, you ROCK!!!
Fantastic holiday read.
READ IT
Just wished there were more pages of Cal an Xander!!! Would love to read more of their HEA!!
December 16, 2013
I liked it, a lot! It was cute, very cute:) and for me it's one of the best so far, together with 'Goosed' and the Prairie Dog story:) Yap!
August 9, 2016
Full review can be found at On Top Down Under Book Reviews.
What an sweet story.
Cal hates the holidays and everything that goes with them, most notably the Christmas music that plays constantly in the mall where he manages a sporting goods store. "Santa's Village" is only a few feet away from the store so he's not only stuck listening to the music all day long but he's also forced to look at the decorations and the long lines of kids waiting to sit on Santa's lap.
Then Cal sees one of Santa's elves and everything changes.
I am purposely leaving out the name of the elf and I hope that others keep the name out of their reviews as well. To name him would be giving a huge spoiler and totally ruin this story for others.
I adored all of the characters, both main and secondary. There's a bit of funny confusion but everything comes together perfectly in the end.
A great story and one I recommend highly.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
What an sweet story.
Cal hates the holidays and everything that goes with them, most notably the Christmas music that plays constantly in the mall where he manages a sporting goods store. "Santa's Village" is only a few feet away from the store so he's not only stuck listening to the music all day long but he's also forced to look at the decorations and the long lines of kids waiting to sit on Santa's lap.
Then Cal sees one of Santa's elves and everything changes.
I am purposely leaving out the name of the elf and I hope that others keep the name out of their reviews as well. To name him would be giving a huge spoiler and totally ruin this story for others.
I adored all of the characters, both main and secondary. There's a bit of funny confusion but everything comes together perfectly in the end.
A great story and one I recommend highly.
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press in exchange for a fair and honest review.
August 7, 2014
2.5
A romantic Christmas comedy of errors. The big misunderstanding would have been more acceptable if I had seen an explanation of how a popular former baseball player (who is also more than hot, we are told) is so clumsy and awkward.
Cute story though. And it gets a bonus for Cal's brother.
A romantic Christmas comedy of errors. The big misunderstanding would have been more acceptable if I had seen an explanation of how a popular former baseball player (who is also more than hot, we are told) is so clumsy and awkward.
Cute story though. And it gets a bonus for Cal's brother.
December 18, 2013
This story had the perfect blend of sweet, sappy and comedy that left me smiling. Xander and Cal were such opposites that they made the ideal couple. Each man complimented the weakness of the other. Brock going all Tarzan to help Cal was funny and cute. The mix up with the names Alex and Xander just made it feel real. This was a perfect feel good Christmas story.
July 29, 2016
A terrific addition to my Christmas collection.
Exploring romance with an emphasis on the retail side of things makes for exhausting reading. It really must be awful to work under those conditions. But, on the other hand, grumpy Cal doesn't have to be quite as cynical or cranky as he is.
And when he spies the adorable dimpled elf, we see him lift himself out of his funk and enjoy himself a little. The whole story is adorable.
Here in sunny Australia reading about all this snow is making me long for a white xmas.
(But then I jump in my pool, and think, maybe not).
xmas story # 8.
Exploring romance with an emphasis on the retail side of things makes for exhausting reading. It really must be awful to work under those conditions. But, on the other hand, grumpy Cal doesn't have to be quite as cynical or cranky as he is.
And when he spies the adorable dimpled elf, we see him lift himself out of his funk and enjoy himself a little. The whole story is adorable.
Here in sunny Australia reading about all this snow is making me long for a white xmas.
(But then I jump in my pool, and think, maybe not).
xmas story # 8.
December 8, 2013
Very cute and lovely Christmas story!!!
Absolutely recommended if you're looking for something short and sweet and holiday-themed. Hach. I'm still wearing my happy smile.
Therese Woodson definitely is a new author to watch for me. I loved her Twelve Tasks too!!
Absolutely recommended if you're looking for something short and sweet and holiday-themed. Hach. I'm still wearing my happy smile.
Therese Woodson definitely is a new author to watch for me. I loved her Twelve Tasks too!!
January 19, 2016
This was a very cute story. It was unpredictable and the MCs were interesting. I'm glad the focus wasn't on sex and I liked the Christmas Carols opening each new chapter.
May 18, 2016
Overall book rating: 3 Stars
Audio book: Narrator - Ryan Kennard Burke 4 Stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
I don't know at times it was good but it didn't work for me.
Audio book: Narrator - Ryan Kennard Burke 4 Stars
Book cover: 2 Stars
I don't know at times it was good but it didn't work for me.
November 23, 2021
Cal hates Christmas and, unfortunately, works at the mall directly across from Santa's village. Cal is grumpy about Christmas until he spies an adorable Christmas elf. Now Cal is little shy and more than a little nerdy and is completely thunderstruck by Xander and has no idea how to approach the adorable elf, but life is kind and throws these two together. Aside from a few little bumps in the road that are more humorous than serious this is the perfect sweet Christmas story.
December 9, 2013
Read on 12-8-13
By far, one of my favorite holiday reads this year! I love Cal and Brock :) I have to say Brock was a scene stealer at times, but I wouldn't want it any other way.
I really can't say much without giving it away, so just read it. You won't regret it :)
I will say one thing though, I didn't want it to end. I wanted this to go on and on and on and on.
By far, one of my favorite holiday reads this year! I love Cal and Brock :) I have to say Brock was a scene stealer at times, but I wouldn't want it any other way.
I really can't say much without giving it away, so just read it. You won't regret it :)
I will say one thing though, I didn't want it to end. I wanted this to go on and on and on and on.
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