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Con Riley's Christmas Collection #2
We Only Kiss at Christmas
All Sebastian Street wants for Christmas is justice.
Oh, and some privacy to kiss his flatmate.
Heat shouldn't sizzle between best friends like it does between me and Patrick. He's my flatmate, not my boyfriend, a gym-bro powered by peace, love, and understanding. In comparison, I'm a yappy terrier fuelled by rage and sugary baked goods.
Expect a third flatmate to understand our opposites-attract dynamic?
No.
This could be our last December together. Our first alone in this flat.
I can’t share it. Or Patrick.
Not when we only kiss at Christmas.
Perfect for fans of friends to lovers and found families, visit London and Cornwall in We Only Kiss at Christmas, or double your festive enjoyment with His Last Christmas in London, the first standalone gay romance in this shared-world series.
Oh, and some privacy to kiss his flatmate.
Heat shouldn't sizzle between best friends like it does between me and Patrick. He's my flatmate, not my boyfriend, a gym-bro powered by peace, love, and understanding. In comparison, I'm a yappy terrier fuelled by rage and sugary baked goods.
Expect a third flatmate to understand our opposites-attract dynamic?
No.
This could be our last December together. Our first alone in this flat.
I can’t share it. Or Patrick.
Not when we only kiss at Christmas.
Perfect for fans of friends to lovers and found families, visit London and Cornwall in We Only Kiss at Christmas, or double your festive enjoyment with His Last Christmas in London, the first standalone gay romance in this shared-world series.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 15, 2023
75 people are currently reading
242 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 117 reviews
January 3, 2025
4.5 Stars
This stunning standalone sequel, to 2022’s His Last Christmas in London, tells the inevitable love story of college best friends and roommates, Seb and Pat, as they find the strength to face their clouded pasts and uncertain futures, together.
Pat and Seb were lovely characters. Pat being the positivity and light to Seb’s moodier melancholic self. They shared the kind of close, intimate friendship that makes those around them assume they’re already together romantically, the weight of their true feelings so clear in their eyes and actions. In this way, they felt very meant-to-be, even when they were mere secondary characters in the background of book one.
They once kissed on Christmas, and now, with the holiday season in full swing in London, Seb braves his hesitancies and throws himself wholeheartedly into an increasingly passionate affair with his best friend, after Pat makes it very clear that all he wants for Christmas is Seb and his happiness.
Pat was such a lovely gentle giant of a young man, so obviously gone on Seb and holding fast in his patience and support, allowing Seb to work through his emotional baggage and come to the realisation himself that he can have ALL THE THINGS with Pat by his side (and in his bed).
Seb’s childhood was shrouded in loneliness and sadness; his backstory so perfectly unveiled bit by delicious bit as the story played out. The way Pat and their friends slowly coaxed him to see his strengths and the magnitude of how much he is loved in the now, was beautiful to witness, making this story and their blossoming romance quite magical and definitely memorable this holiday season.
I mentioned in my review of the last book, that I found Con Riley’s prose to be quite spectacular and deeply emotive, and this story only bolstered those beliefs. Beyond the exquisite writing and heart-melting friends-to-lovers romance, I also adored the found family cast of characters that surrounded Seb and Pat, and the way London at Christmastime came alive on the page with every new beautiful passage.
I definitely need to make it a New Year’s resolution of mine to read more of Riley’s work, because I don’t think I’ll last simply waiting for book three in this series (Jack’s story) to come out next Christmas — not when there is a large back-catalogue for me to eagerly explore. ❤️
******************************
Con Riley’s Christmas Collection
Book 1 - His Last Christmas in London (4 Stars)
Book 2 - We Only Kiss at Christmas (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - His Until Christmas (3.5 Stars)
Book 4 - A Loser by Christmas (pending release…)
This stunning standalone sequel, to 2022’s His Last Christmas in London, tells the inevitable love story of college best friends and roommates, Seb and Pat, as they find the strength to face their clouded pasts and uncertain futures, together.
Pat and Seb were lovely characters. Pat being the positivity and light to Seb’s moodier melancholic self. They shared the kind of close, intimate friendship that makes those around them assume they’re already together romantically, the weight of their true feelings so clear in their eyes and actions. In this way, they felt very meant-to-be, even when they were mere secondary characters in the background of book one.
They once kissed on Christmas, and now, with the holiday season in full swing in London, Seb braves his hesitancies and throws himself wholeheartedly into an increasingly passionate affair with his best friend, after Pat makes it very clear that all he wants for Christmas is Seb and his happiness.
Pat was such a lovely gentle giant of a young man, so obviously gone on Seb and holding fast in his patience and support, allowing Seb to work through his emotional baggage and come to the realisation himself that he can have ALL THE THINGS with Pat by his side (and in his bed).
Seb’s childhood was shrouded in loneliness and sadness; his backstory so perfectly unveiled bit by delicious bit as the story played out. The way Pat and their friends slowly coaxed him to see his strengths and the magnitude of how much he is loved in the now, was beautiful to witness, making this story and their blossoming romance quite magical and definitely memorable this holiday season.
I mentioned in my review of the last book, that I found Con Riley’s prose to be quite spectacular and deeply emotive, and this story only bolstered those beliefs. Beyond the exquisite writing and heart-melting friends-to-lovers romance, I also adored the found family cast of characters that surrounded Seb and Pat, and the way London at Christmastime came alive on the page with every new beautiful passage.
I definitely need to make it a New Year’s resolution of mine to read more of Riley’s work, because I don’t think I’ll last simply waiting for book three in this series (Jack’s story) to come out next Christmas — not when there is a large back-catalogue for me to eagerly explore. ❤️
******************************
Con Riley’s Christmas Collection
Book 1 - His Last Christmas in London (4 Stars)
Book 2 - We Only Kiss at Christmas (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - His Until Christmas (3.5 Stars)
Book 4 - A Loser by Christmas (pending release…)
Read
November 15, 2023I'm quitting at 22%.
Maybe I'm in a strange mood today?
The writing seems very sloppy.
From the first chapters on I had a hard time getting a feel for the characters, and I'm not a fan of Sebastian (it's his pov) and his OTT actions.
But, as I said, the writing..
Two quotes (the first is while they are kissing, the second is shortly later, during sex).
"I'm so stuffed with desserts and pasta that I should be full and yet I'm still starving for him".
"I straddle his chest. Then my cock’s engulfed and he blows me like it’s what he goes to the gym to train for. Or why he was assigned the room next to mine our first year of uni, both of us there two years later than all the other freshers, if for different reasons. I went back to school as a last promise to the woman who can’t have heard Mariah lately, given her text-message radio silence. Pat’s delay was down to needing extra coaching through his A levels, but all that meant was that we were a team of two before the end of the first week, and I never guessed back then how right this would feel between us. There’s no turning back now, is there? Not from this. I’ll worry about tomorrow later."
??
(maybe my mood is the problem but I'm okay with that. I tried and now I give up. No rating)
Maybe I'm in a strange mood today?
The writing seems very sloppy.
From the first chapters on I had a hard time getting a feel for the characters, and I'm not a fan of Sebastian (it's his pov) and his OTT actions.
But, as I said, the writing..
Two quotes (the first is while they are kissing, the second is shortly later, during sex).
"I'm so stuffed with desserts and pasta that I should be full and yet I'm still starving for him".
"I straddle his chest. Then my cock’s engulfed and he blows me like it’s what he goes to the gym to train for. Or why he was assigned the room next to mine our first year of uni, both of us there two years later than all the other freshers, if for different reasons. I went back to school as a last promise to the woman who can’t have heard Mariah lately, given her text-message radio silence. Pat’s delay was down to needing extra coaching through his A levels, but all that meant was that we were a team of two before the end of the first week, and I never guessed back then how right this would feel between us. There’s no turning back now, is there? Not from this. I’ll worry about tomorrow later."
??
(maybe my mood is the problem but I'm okay with that. I tried and now I give up. No rating)
November 16, 2023
Con Riley writes Christmas love like no other
There is always such a warmth to Con Riley’s Christmas stories, even when the message being told is a more serious one.
Here we cover a multitude of different threads which she weaves into one beautiful tapestry of love.
Love for the city of London, love for family, love for those we’ve chosen to be our family, love for justice, and love for that one special person above all others, who makes your heart sing and brings comfort to a troubled soul.
We’re in Sebastian’s head, aka Seb, for most of this trip back into a London Christmas as we catch up with him and his flatmate, and best friend, Patrick.
If you’ve read His Last Christmas in London then you’ve met these two already. If you haven’t, this can be read as a standalone quite easily but you might miss some of the more subtle nuisances of the extraordinary relationship between the two men, so I’d highly recommend you pick it up first!
You see, these two have a history, they kissed once under the mistletoe, before Seb secretly panicked, fearing he’d lose his best friend if something went wrong. So they’ve been dancing around the edges for a while and now it’s approaching Christmas again.
I won’t give any spoilers for the plot, all I’ll say is that you’ll get to see how two people that, on the face of it, shouldn’t fit together at all, come to create a perfectly matching puzzle piece.
On the way you’ll learn some painful secrets, you’ll fall in love with a new flatmate, meet a character who may seem a little bit familiar if you know Con’s expanded Cornish universe, and you’ll rage along with Seb each time the dulcet tones of Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas blasts through the air.
You’ll probably also swoon a lot, this book is ridiculously romantic, from Pat’s gentle way of encouraging Seb to take a breath and stop fighting every minute of the day, to the fiercely protective nature of Seb towards those who seek to put Pat down for his dyscalculia, and the ways in which each finds time for the other in a multitude of small ways.
There’ll also be lots of laughter, we get to catch up with Ian and Guy, visit Penny’s restaurant and explore some of the more hidden gems that London has to offer to those who come to experience the city with an open heart and a willingness to be guided.
When you turn the final page, you’ll be left with all the feels, it’s the festive season in book format, for all the right reasons, not because of expensive presents, but because of kindness, because of friendships, because of time spent with those you love.
It’s a true gift to leave a reader feeling like they’ve just caught up with a gang of people who feel absolutely real.
As if you could walk into Penny’s and find them sat around their favourite table, taking the mickey and exchanging tall tales, while the smell of Italian food drifts through the air.
I love this Christmas series from Con, it’s an absolute tonic to warm the deadest of hearts and I cannot wait for the next one!
#As ever I alpha read for Con. My review is my honest opinion and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
There is always such a warmth to Con Riley’s Christmas stories, even when the message being told is a more serious one.
Here we cover a multitude of different threads which she weaves into one beautiful tapestry of love.
Love for the city of London, love for family, love for those we’ve chosen to be our family, love for justice, and love for that one special person above all others, who makes your heart sing and brings comfort to a troubled soul.
We’re in Sebastian’s head, aka Seb, for most of this trip back into a London Christmas as we catch up with him and his flatmate, and best friend, Patrick.
If you’ve read His Last Christmas in London then you’ve met these two already. If you haven’t, this can be read as a standalone quite easily but you might miss some of the more subtle nuisances of the extraordinary relationship between the two men, so I’d highly recommend you pick it up first!
You see, these two have a history, they kissed once under the mistletoe, before Seb secretly panicked, fearing he’d lose his best friend if something went wrong. So they’ve been dancing around the edges for a while and now it’s approaching Christmas again.
I won’t give any spoilers for the plot, all I’ll say is that you’ll get to see how two people that, on the face of it, shouldn’t fit together at all, come to create a perfectly matching puzzle piece.
On the way you’ll learn some painful secrets, you’ll fall in love with a new flatmate, meet a character who may seem a little bit familiar if you know Con’s expanded Cornish universe, and you’ll rage along with Seb each time the dulcet tones of Mariah Carey’s All I Want For Christmas blasts through the air.
You’ll probably also swoon a lot, this book is ridiculously romantic, from Pat’s gentle way of encouraging Seb to take a breath and stop fighting every minute of the day, to the fiercely protective nature of Seb towards those who seek to put Pat down for his dyscalculia, and the ways in which each finds time for the other in a multitude of small ways.
There’ll also be lots of laughter, we get to catch up with Ian and Guy, visit Penny’s restaurant and explore some of the more hidden gems that London has to offer to those who come to experience the city with an open heart and a willingness to be guided.
When you turn the final page, you’ll be left with all the feels, it’s the festive season in book format, for all the right reasons, not because of expensive presents, but because of kindness, because of friendships, because of time spent with those you love.
It’s a true gift to leave a reader feeling like they’ve just caught up with a gang of people who feel absolutely real.
As if you could walk into Penny’s and find them sat around their favourite table, taking the mickey and exchanging tall tales, while the smell of Italian food drifts through the air.
I love this Christmas series from Con, it’s an absolute tonic to warm the deadest of hearts and I cannot wait for the next one!
#As ever I alpha read for Con. My review is my honest opinion and I'm leaving it voluntarily.
December 19, 2024
I liked this story but their inability to finish a conversation or say what they mean really started to grate on me. It was stressful!
I did like the links to Rex Heligan though and that Patrick used to attend Glyn Harber! I love interconnected books and even though I'm not reading them in chronological order, I'm enjoying getting to know characters that I've seen mentioned in other books.
I did like the links to Rex Heligan though and that Patrick used to attend Glyn Harber! I love interconnected books and even though I'm not reading them in chronological order, I'm enjoying getting to know characters that I've seen mentioned in other books.
March 1, 2024
Secret tunnels.
I have discovered something new about Riley's stories. They ALL feature a hidden tunnel...somewhere. I feel as though I've won a 'behind-the-scenes VIP pass' with this book. I have always found a connection and celebrated the shared worlds, but this...this is different. And the best part is, there isn't a beginning. It's a gigantic loop, merging one tale into another. You can start here or you can start with His Last Christmas. You could find Mr. Fabulous or even snag the His series.
Either way, you'll win with all the possibilities. Without a doubt, We Only Kiss at Christmas is a surefire winner.
It's clear from the start that Seb and Patrick are meant for one another. The air shimmers with electricity around them. Personal bubbles do not exist as they naturally gravitate to form some type of physical contact. They hold their breath when apart and oxygen flows easier when they're together.
Hesitation is only natural when the stakes are so high. The gamble of transitioning from best friends to boyfriends is terrifying for Seb. What if Patrick leaves the city? What if he doesn't feel the same? What if he doesn't pass his final test? What if Seb pushes him and ends up losing him? WHAT IF?!
Nope, losing Patrick is not an option. When he surrendered to his greatest desire and kissed Patrick last Christmas, he had to draw the line. Make it an exception. So they agreed, they could only embrace the intimacy simmering between them at Christmas. Or is it when the holiday season begins? If you ask Patrick, that would be the first of December.
For as close as Seb and Patrick are, they are blind to the obvious. They are so caught up with each other, that they miss what everyone else can see. I knew they would figure it out, but I had no clue how they would get there. Gotta tell you, it was HOT. There is a deep emotional connection as things heat up. And I didn’t even fight the tears when Con struck her pen straight and center into my chest. Riley is not afraid to take you into unchartered waters. I cling to hope each and every time I set sail with her.
You MUST embark on this gorgeous holiday story without spoilers. So what can I tell you?? Plan on humming Mariah Carey’s holiday earworm, craving a mediocre but fulfilling Italian meal, and rooting for the imperfect-yet-perfect couple. Seb can be prickly. The path he’s walked will explain why. Pat can be gracious and charming. His family can explain why. *whispers* Pat’s family is amazing. Oh! And that third flatmate that I have failed to tell you about? Jack. Yeah, you might know him, but only in passing. He can read the room like a private detective and organize like Marie Kondo. He’s quick with his work here and I am absolutely aching for his story. His Until Christmas is next and I’ll race you there!
Beware of: A leap of faith…lands in solid arms. Family is family…found, made, or otherwise. Halt judgment…a rich heart might be under that shabby coat.
This book is for: Con’s writing is unique and swoon-worthy. If you haven’t fallen for her guys yet, I highly suggest this London set romance with two best friends destined for more.
Book UNfunk
I have discovered something new about Riley's stories. They ALL feature a hidden tunnel...somewhere. I feel as though I've won a 'behind-the-scenes VIP pass' with this book. I have always found a connection and celebrated the shared worlds, but this...this is different. And the best part is, there isn't a beginning. It's a gigantic loop, merging one tale into another. You can start here or you can start with His Last Christmas. You could find Mr. Fabulous or even snag the His series.
Either way, you'll win with all the possibilities. Without a doubt, We Only Kiss at Christmas is a surefire winner.
It's clear from the start that Seb and Patrick are meant for one another. The air shimmers with electricity around them. Personal bubbles do not exist as they naturally gravitate to form some type of physical contact. They hold their breath when apart and oxygen flows easier when they're together.
Hesitation is only natural when the stakes are so high. The gamble of transitioning from best friends to boyfriends is terrifying for Seb. What if Patrick leaves the city? What if he doesn't feel the same? What if he doesn't pass his final test? What if Seb pushes him and ends up losing him? WHAT IF?!
Nope, losing Patrick is not an option. When he surrendered to his greatest desire and kissed Patrick last Christmas, he had to draw the line. Make it an exception. So they agreed, they could only embrace the intimacy simmering between them at Christmas. Or is it when the holiday season begins? If you ask Patrick, that would be the first of December.
For as close as Seb and Patrick are, they are blind to the obvious. They are so caught up with each other, that they miss what everyone else can see. I knew they would figure it out, but I had no clue how they would get there. Gotta tell you, it was HOT. There is a deep emotional connection as things heat up. And I didn’t even fight the tears when Con struck her pen straight and center into my chest. Riley is not afraid to take you into unchartered waters. I cling to hope each and every time I set sail with her.
You MUST embark on this gorgeous holiday story without spoilers. So what can I tell you?? Plan on humming Mariah Carey’s holiday earworm, craving a mediocre but fulfilling Italian meal, and rooting for the imperfect-yet-perfect couple. Seb can be prickly. The path he’s walked will explain why. Pat can be gracious and charming. His family can explain why. *whispers* Pat’s family is amazing. Oh! And that third flatmate that I have failed to tell you about? Jack. Yeah, you might know him, but only in passing. He can read the room like a private detective and organize like Marie Kondo. He’s quick with his work here and I am absolutely aching for his story. His Until Christmas is next and I’ll race you there!
Beware of: A leap of faith…lands in solid arms. Family is family…found, made, or otherwise. Halt judgment…a rich heart might be under that shabby coat.
This book is for: Con’s writing is unique and swoon-worthy. If you haven’t fallen for her guys yet, I highly suggest this London set romance with two best friends destined for more.
Book UNfunk
Read
December 20, 2024Stopped at 43% at the beginning of this year, and finally admitting I'm dnf-ing for now. I don't know why I can't get into this one.
Oh, liar, actually I do. Friends-to-lovers is a hard sell for me bc often, especially if they're roommates, they've been dating other people all along and sometimes also heard each other having sex with other people, and that's a major turn-off for me. I think there was some of that here, but, it's more than that--I'm just not feeling the chemistry between these two, nor the sense of anticipation I did in the first book, His Last Christmas in London, which I utterly loved. I actually loved reading about these two as SCs more in that first book than I do being in their POVs in this one. The charm isn't as strong? Hmm. Maybe it was my mood though, I'll try again sometime. I do plan to read book 3 and am looking forward to recapturing the magic!
Another thing that minorly bugs me is the incorrect placement of "Only" in the title. Like, okay, you only KISS at Christmas, you don't have sex or talk or hang out or....! But that's a weird Me thing that clearly doesn't bug anyone else in the English speaking world because that placement has become so prevalent it's now an accepted sentence structure. Sigh. I am weird. (Though, if you don't believe me and you're a Highlander fan, try saying "There Can Only Be One!" and realizing just how very, very wrong that sounds...! LOL. You KNOW There Can Be Only One! Alas. I know. I entertain *only* myself.)
Oh, liar, actually I do. Friends-to-lovers is a hard sell for me bc often, especially if they're roommates, they've been dating other people all along and sometimes also heard each other having sex with other people, and that's a major turn-off for me. I think there was some of that here, but, it's more than that--I'm just not feeling the chemistry between these two, nor the sense of anticipation I did in the first book, His Last Christmas in London, which I utterly loved. I actually loved reading about these two as SCs more in that first book than I do being in their POVs in this one. The charm isn't as strong? Hmm. Maybe it was my mood though, I'll try again sometime. I do plan to read book 3 and am looking forward to recapturing the magic!
Another thing that minorly bugs me is the incorrect placement of "Only" in the title. Like, okay, you only KISS at Christmas, you don't have sex or talk or hang out or....! But that's a weird Me thing that clearly doesn't bug anyone else in the English speaking world because that placement has become so prevalent it's now an accepted sentence structure. Sigh. I am weird. (Though, if you don't believe me and you're a Highlander fan, try saying "There Can Only Be One!" and realizing just how very, very wrong that sounds...! LOL. You KNOW There Can Be Only One! Alas. I know. I entertain *only* myself.)
December 21, 2023
4 stars ❤️❤️. Loved this complex yet sweet holiday romance 🥰 🥰
Part of CR’s Christmas series.. I loved the last book a little more than this one, but still I would recommend it 👍🏻👍🏻
Part of CR’s Christmas series.. I loved the last book a little more than this one, but still I would recommend it 👍🏻👍🏻
November 24, 2023
3.5 stars
I'm not entirely sure what happened here. Typically I find books start strong then peter out, but this one did the opposite.
It took me quite a while to warm up to Seb. He's pining desperately, miserably counting down the days until Pat has to go home for Christmas, worried that he won't be able to come back and terrified they won't get a chance to carry out the agreement to only kiss at Christmas. Of course he feels threatened by the arrival of a new roommate and Seb is pretty hostile about it.
What I didn't get is that it was Seb who suggested the agreement, and it wasn't until over halfway through that I felt his fear of losing Pat as a friend actually had any founding. It felt contrived. Or perhaps not contrived, but just poorly exposed. And also, Seb, please, you're so oblivious. Everyone can see, and repeatedly tells them, how enamoured they are of each other.
I also wasn't initially sold on the Jake roommate plotline, but it did actually end up working. It was a good way to show Seb coming out of his shell with someone else, how abrasive he could be, but how he was actually a sweet, mother hen.
I was anticipating a family meeting with a wary side-eye, I thought there would surely be annoying drama, heated arguments, blah, blah, etc. I am happy to report I was completely wrong. The family meeting was absolutely wonderful. Yes, it was a bit cheesy, but it was so in keeping with the tone of the book and the general seasonal cheer that I was smiling all the way through.
However, I never warmed up to the writing style and that's ultimately what killed it for me. I'm kind of surprised because I've read 2 other Con Riley books before (to really mixed results, I loved Charles, but hated His Horizon) and didn't particularly notice the style in either of them.
Here, I struggled. There was a lot of waxing poetic during sex. My eyes kept glazing over...
I know it's bad when I'm reading a sex scene and the only thing I want is for them to just get on with it already.
I don't know what to say. If you enjoy a bit of a meandering style, like some holiday cheer, and have the patience to wait for the plotlines to pan out, I'd probably still recommend this. Personally, it makes me very wary of reading more of Con Riley's books.
I'm not entirely sure what happened here. Typically I find books start strong then peter out, but this one did the opposite.
It took me quite a while to warm up to Seb. He's pining desperately, miserably counting down the days until Pat has to go home for Christmas, worried that he won't be able to come back and terrified they won't get a chance to carry out the agreement to only kiss at Christmas. Of course he feels threatened by the arrival of a new roommate and Seb is pretty hostile about it.
What I didn't get is that it was Seb who suggested the agreement, and it wasn't until over halfway through that I felt his fear of losing Pat as a friend actually had any founding. It felt contrived. Or perhaps not contrived, but just poorly exposed. And also, Seb, please, you're so oblivious. Everyone can see, and repeatedly tells them, how enamoured they are of each other.
I also wasn't initially sold on the Jake roommate plotline, but it did actually end up working. It was a good way to show Seb coming out of his shell with someone else, how abrasive he could be, but how he was actually a sweet, mother hen.
I was anticipating a family meeting with a wary side-eye, I thought there would surely be annoying drama, heated arguments, blah, blah, etc. I am happy to report I was completely wrong. The family meeting was absolutely wonderful. Yes, it was a bit cheesy, but it was so in keeping with the tone of the book and the general seasonal cheer that I was smiling all the way through.
However, I never warmed up to the writing style and that's ultimately what killed it for me. I'm kind of surprised because I've read 2 other Con Riley books before (to really mixed results, I loved Charles, but hated His Horizon) and didn't particularly notice the style in either of them.
Here, I struggled. There was a lot of waxing poetic during sex. My eyes kept glazing over...
He is. All of him, and he must see it as I screw into him with the deep thrusts that make him seize up, and this is where I do have endurance. I’ll do this for as long as it takes. In fact, I go even slower, and time stretches again. Forget the birth of stars and them dying. Forget Regent Street or even the Romans laying claim to the Thames and building the foundations of this whole city. There’s only him and me, and Pat urging me on, and I so want to live up to his expectations. I dig deep and do it.
I know it's bad when I'm reading a sex scene and the only thing I want is for them to just get on with it already.
I don't know what to say. If you enjoy a bit of a meandering style, like some holiday cheer, and have the patience to wait for the plotlines to pan out, I'd probably still recommend this. Personally, it makes me very wary of reading more of Con Riley's books.
November 15, 2023
Beautiful Friends to Lovers Christmas Tale 😍
5*s all the way ❤️
The perfect friends to lovers Christmas story from Con Riley. This really made me smile as it came across as real, heart felt, and I felt a lovely connection to all of the MCs. It had humour, quick wit, romance and was just adorable. It's a truly beautiful story, very well written and so engaging. As with many of Con's books, I found it particularly moving. Seb's strength and spirit were impressive and immense, I'm so glad he had 'Auntie' in his life. It revealed why he is such a battler. Also, I quickly became absorbed in Pat's history, as I lived a similar backstory with my son. I identified with most of the thoughts and feelings that are described, and found it to be really inspiring and thought provoking.
The chemistry between Seb and Pat is palpable, and only grows stronger and deeper as the story progresses. Con has a way of writing true and tangible connections between her characters, that you can’t help but get lost in. Pat is such a sweetheart with a devastatingly swoony sexy side, and is so caring and kind, he had me swooning and sighing all over the place. Finally, it was lovely to meet up with some old friends again, Arthur, Rex, Jack (excellent back story!), and a mention of Dev, and the Haven, from Con's previous books, I love how she connects her stories. Another great read from Ms Riley. You do NOT want to miss out on these two!
5*s all the way ❤️
The perfect friends to lovers Christmas story from Con Riley. This really made me smile as it came across as real, heart felt, and I felt a lovely connection to all of the MCs. It had humour, quick wit, romance and was just adorable. It's a truly beautiful story, very well written and so engaging. As with many of Con's books, I found it particularly moving. Seb's strength and spirit were impressive and immense, I'm so glad he had 'Auntie' in his life. It revealed why he is such a battler. Also, I quickly became absorbed in Pat's history, as I lived a similar backstory with my son. I identified with most of the thoughts and feelings that are described, and found it to be really inspiring and thought provoking.
The chemistry between Seb and Pat is palpable, and only grows stronger and deeper as the story progresses. Con has a way of writing true and tangible connections between her characters, that you can’t help but get lost in. Pat is such a sweetheart with a devastatingly swoony sexy side, and is so caring and kind, he had me swooning and sighing all over the place. Finally, it was lovely to meet up with some old friends again, Arthur, Rex, Jack (excellent back story!), and a mention of Dev, and the Haven, from Con's previous books, I love how she connects her stories. Another great read from Ms Riley. You do NOT want to miss out on these two!
Want to read
December 14, 2023Thank you for the gift, secret santa!
November 11, 2023
PRECIOUS !!!
Oh gosh, my heart did all those strange things, it was all so dear.
A story of emotionally rich people, true friends, and found family.
It’s about Seb and Pat, best friends, who live together and only kiss at Christmas.
The yearning and pining for each other was heart-wrenching. But wait for it!!
The author made a precious package, wrapped it in several layers, and unwrapped it before our eyes, layer after layer, and with every one we get closer to the center, we meet the past and the present.
And there’s so much to feel and enjoy.
A locked door that opens bit by bit, and my goodness look what happens when the crack lets the fresh breeze in.
After presuming, when the truth becomes clear, beautiful things happen.
At some point I was aware I made noises while reading, hiccups, tears dripping.
“Do you know what is at the top of Dad’s list?” behind these lines…. read it yourself.
Our sweet Seb, he’s so loved and doesn’t even know how much.
Pat, my goodness what a beautiful character.
There are many MANY precious moments, my heart!!
This read shows that every person on this planet has a story to tell, each carries their own cross.
The beautifully crafted personalities, you can only love them. Yes, we meet some familiar faces!!
The author did such an amazing job. (As always!! No pressure lol) I only wished I could float somewhat longer on the happy ride.
Oh gosh, my heart did all those strange things, it was all so dear.
A story of emotionally rich people, true friends, and found family.
It’s about Seb and Pat, best friends, who live together and only kiss at Christmas.
The yearning and pining for each other was heart-wrenching. But wait for it!!
The author made a precious package, wrapped it in several layers, and unwrapped it before our eyes, layer after layer, and with every one we get closer to the center, we meet the past and the present.
And there’s so much to feel and enjoy.
A locked door that opens bit by bit, and my goodness look what happens when the crack lets the fresh breeze in.
After presuming, when the truth becomes clear, beautiful things happen.
At some point I was aware I made noises while reading, hiccups, tears dripping.
“Do you know what is at the top of Dad’s list?” behind these lines…. read it yourself.
Our sweet Seb, he’s so loved and doesn’t even know how much.
Pat, my goodness what a beautiful character.
There are many MANY precious moments, my heart!!
This read shows that every person on this planet has a story to tell, each carries their own cross.
The beautifully crafted personalities, you can only love them. Yes, we meet some familiar faces!!
The author did such an amazing job. (As always!! No pressure lol) I only wished I could float somewhat longer on the happy ride.
December 1, 2023
Love, love, love this series! That’s the review.
November 16, 2023
Absolutely loved it. Full of warm, gooey feelings and 2 leads who'd had life and all of its difficulties thrown at them before they were even born. Loved the catch-up with Arthur and Rex, the Dukes of Heligan [not Hazzard 😏] and cannot wait for Jack's story next Christmas, His Until Christmas. Terrific stuff once again Con Riley.
December 31, 2024
3.5 stars⭐️ totally cozy and hit that cute holiday romance craving, but ultimately lacked a bit of depth. was still pretty adorable and the found family ish stuff made me tear up
November 15, 2023
My long-time and ongoing appreciation for Con Riley's writing has always been encompassed by the nuggets of wisdom and heaps of kindness she sprinkles through her storytelling. Throwing a catch into each romance is something she does so eloquently; not an out-of-nowhere softball that doesn’t fit in the story but a hardball line-drive to my softest feelings, which somehow catches me off guard every single time. And those revelations, both big and small, do nothing but serve the story in deeper, richer, and lusher ways.
There is a sincerity and complexity to both her characters and their relationships that's the key to letting readers in. The bond between Seb and Patrick is not only a connection but an investment. Following them through all the questions and complications that might mean risking their friendship for something that isn't guaranteed is made all the more tender by the challenges that make them who they are. Seb and Patrick may be opposites in the way they face life and its myriad challenges, but together they are ready to face the world and everything that comes their way.
With a little help from their friends (Jack is enormously wonderful) and family (who are awesome) along the way, plus a lavish dose of charm and heaps of romantic moments, We Only Kiss at Christmas is a gift.
There is a sincerity and complexity to both her characters and their relationships that's the key to letting readers in. The bond between Seb and Patrick is not only a connection but an investment. Following them through all the questions and complications that might mean risking their friendship for something that isn't guaranteed is made all the more tender by the challenges that make them who they are. Seb and Patrick may be opposites in the way they face life and its myriad challenges, but together they are ready to face the world and everything that comes their way.
With a little help from their friends (Jack is enormously wonderful) and family (who are awesome) along the way, plus a lavish dose of charm and heaps of romantic moments, We Only Kiss at Christmas is a gift.
December 27, 2023
Sweet story
I ended up skipping a third of the book-too long but sweet and low-ish angst. A little more complexity in the characters would be nice.
I ended up skipping a third of the book-too long but sweet and low-ish angst. A little more complexity in the characters would be nice.
December 3, 2023
4.5 stars - Oh how I love Con Riley’s Christmas stories - they always get me right in the feels and make me fall hard for the characters. Seb and Pat’s story is definitely no exception.
Sebastian (Seb) Street has been through a lot in his life and is a little hard to connect with at first when he’s keeping his cards so close to the vest. His childhood experiences make him think he constantly needs to be on the defensive and that he’s unloveable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth - when he starts to open up, he sees that he deserves so much more than what he had growing up. So much of that growth is thanks to his best friend and roommate, Pat.
Patrick (Pat) Trelawney is a big, muscular teddy bear, especially when it comes to Seb. He has a huge heart and has dedicated so much time to helping people feel good about themselves as a fitness trainer, but also taking that mindset into every part of his life, encouraging those around him to be their best. His struggles with his degree leave him feeling uncertain and stressed about his future, but the one thing he does know is that he’ll do anything to keep Seb in his life.
These two have an agreement that they’ll only kiss at Christmas, but for the past year they’ve been pining for each other and counting down the days until they have an excuse to take what they want. It did take me a little bit to get into their story, but once I was in, I was SO in. I couldn’t put it down and I had to know how Seb and Pat were going to make things work between them. You can feel the love between them even when they’re fighting it so once they do get together it’s sweet in ways I can’t even describe. Seeing Seb blossom under Pat’s attention and care was so romantic and watching Seb start to understand and really care for Pat made me fall for the two of them. Their friendship was so special to begin with that adding romance in to the mix just made it even better.
I’m incredibly excited for Jack’s story next year already - I can’t wait to get back to this group and the dreamy, Christmas-y London atmosphere Con Riley has created in these books!
Sebastian (Seb) Street has been through a lot in his life and is a little hard to connect with at first when he’s keeping his cards so close to the vest. His childhood experiences make him think he constantly needs to be on the defensive and that he’s unloveable, but that couldn’t be further from the truth - when he starts to open up, he sees that he deserves so much more than what he had growing up. So much of that growth is thanks to his best friend and roommate, Pat.
Patrick (Pat) Trelawney is a big, muscular teddy bear, especially when it comes to Seb. He has a huge heart and has dedicated so much time to helping people feel good about themselves as a fitness trainer, but also taking that mindset into every part of his life, encouraging those around him to be their best. His struggles with his degree leave him feeling uncertain and stressed about his future, but the one thing he does know is that he’ll do anything to keep Seb in his life.
These two have an agreement that they’ll only kiss at Christmas, but for the past year they’ve been pining for each other and counting down the days until they have an excuse to take what they want. It did take me a little bit to get into their story, but once I was in, I was SO in. I couldn’t put it down and I had to know how Seb and Pat were going to make things work between them. You can feel the love between them even when they’re fighting it so once they do get together it’s sweet in ways I can’t even describe. Seeing Seb blossom under Pat’s attention and care was so romantic and watching Seb start to understand and really care for Pat made me fall for the two of them. Their friendship was so special to begin with that adding romance in to the mix just made it even better.
I’m incredibly excited for Jack’s story next year already - I can’t wait to get back to this group and the dreamy, Christmas-y London atmosphere Con Riley has created in these books!
December 7, 2023
Chyba podeszłam do tej książki ze zbyt wysokimi oczekiwaniami 😕
To wszystko wina pierwszej części w serii 😜
Zupełnie nie mogłam się wkręcić w historię - niewątpliwie wielki wpływ miał na to Seb, którego POV był praktycznie przez całą książkę, nie licząc epilogu. A do Seba za diabła nie mogłam się ogrzać 😕 Nie lubiłam go i niespecjalnie rozumiałam. Sposób, w jaki się okłamywał w kwestii swoich uczuć do Pata i ich wspólnej relacji jako tylko "przyjaciół", wkurzał mnie. A jednocześnie nie mógł się doczekać świąt, bo ustalił zasadę dokładnie taką, jak tytuł książki. Wszyscy naokoło widzieli, co jest na rzeczy, tylko nie on...
Tym razem magia świąt na mnie nie zadziałała...
Co poradzić 🤷♀️
Ale dla tych, którzy chcą przeczytać - nie przejmujcie się, bo jestem w zdecydowanej mniejszości 😉
To wszystko wina pierwszej części w serii 😜
Zupełnie nie mogłam się wkręcić w historię - niewątpliwie wielki wpływ miał na to Seb, którego POV był praktycznie przez całą książkę, nie licząc epilogu. A do Seba za diabła nie mogłam się ogrzać 😕 Nie lubiłam go i niespecjalnie rozumiałam. Sposób, w jaki się okłamywał w kwestii swoich uczuć do Pata i ich wspólnej relacji jako tylko "przyjaciół", wkurzał mnie. A jednocześnie nie mógł się doczekać świąt, bo ustalił zasadę dokładnie taką, jak tytuł książki. Wszyscy naokoło widzieli, co jest na rzeczy, tylko nie on...
Tym razem magia świąt na mnie nie zadziałała...
Co poradzić 🤷♀️
Ale dla tych, którzy chcą przeczytać - nie przejmujcie się, bo jestem w zdecydowanej mniejszości 😉
December 1, 2023
DNF at 28% I feel like I'm missing something. Like there's a first book. But if there is, I don't want to read it. Cuz this one is a jumbled mess,
September 20, 2024
I challenge you to find another book of this length that does such a fantastic job showing how absolutely perfect two characters are for one another. We got to see it a little in Ian's book, but it did not do justice to how Patrick and Seb just completely understand one another in such a beautiful way. Seb was so prickly, but also you could see he was full of love for not only Patrick but everyone he interacted with. And Patrick is really just a giant sweetheart. This is the ultimate grumpy/sunshine Christmas tale and is full of so many emotions (I did cry, but if you follow my reviews you're probably used to seeing that lol). You also get to see some friends from other novels and I really hope we get Jack's story next!
December 10, 2023
This may be my least favorite Con Riley's books in her Cornwall/Cornwall-adjacent universe.
My biggest issues are two things: 1) A bit too many sex scenes for me this time and 2) The whole flatmate dynamic with Jack (who were practically a stranger for Seb and Patrick) was TOO WEIRD! At times it felt like a weird threesome that just didn't gel for me. Also, why so many focus on Jack in this book when the story is SUPPOSED TO BE about SEB AND PATRICK??
So Riley's gentle narration, especially regarding Seb's past and how he defended people he loved, couldn't save this one.
Thank you so much to My Secret Santa from Goodreads 2023 Secret Santa Event for this gift
My biggest issues are two things: 1) A bit too many sex scenes for me this time and 2) The whole flatmate dynamic with Jack (who were practically a stranger for Seb and Patrick) was TOO WEIRD! At times it felt like a weird threesome that just didn't gel for me. Also, why so many focus on Jack in this book when the story is SUPPOSED TO BE about SEB AND PATRICK??
So Riley's gentle narration, especially regarding Seb's past and how he defended people he loved, couldn't save this one.
Thank you so much to My Secret Santa from Goodreads 2023 Secret Santa Event for this gift
December 17, 2023
3.5 stars, rounded up because Con's writing still paints with vivid colors.
I'm kind of disappointed that in a book about Sebastian and Patrick we got a lot of other characters, including Jack (who is a really nice young man and Lito's latest victim), and I expected to really see a focus on the long-awaited romantic development between Seb and Pat.
In the first book in this series, there is a lot of hinting at the two roommates both wanting to be more than roommates but neither taking the first step toward that happening.
This author just has an uncanny knack to tell the story without telling us each detail, letting the reader come to the correct conclusion, allowing the reader to make the connection as it is woven within the words on each page, never obvious, never spelled out, but right there nonetheless. Though while we get Seb's backstory in this book, and while Con Riley writes beautifully about what drives Seb to become a lawyer, I kind of wanted more than what I got from the romance.
I must say that the finale of the book, in which Pat does all those wonderful things to give Seb that what he's been missing all his life - that was amazing and I might have sniffled a little bit more.
I am looking forward to Jack's book next Christmas.
I'm kind of disappointed that in a book about Sebastian and Patrick we got a lot of other characters, including Jack (who is a really nice young man and Lito's latest victim), and I expected to really see a focus on the long-awaited romantic development between Seb and Pat.
In the first book in this series, there is a lot of hinting at the two roommates both wanting to be more than roommates but neither taking the first step toward that happening.
This author just has an uncanny knack to tell the story without telling us each detail, letting the reader come to the correct conclusion, allowing the reader to make the connection as it is woven within the words on each page, never obvious, never spelled out, but right there nonetheless. Though while we get Seb's backstory in this book, and while Con Riley writes beautifully about what drives Seb to become a lawyer, I kind of wanted more than what I got from the romance.
I must say that the finale of the book, in which Pat does all those wonderful things to give Seb that what he's been missing all his life - that was amazing and I might have sniffled a little bit more.
I am looking forward to Jack's book next Christmas.
December 25, 2024
3.5 stars.
I liked how Seb took his time and eventually was ready for Pat and a relationship.
The book wasn't as good as the first one of the series.
It felt a little all over the place at times but I loved the message and the solid friendship the two mc's shared.
Bonus the reappearance of my favorite couple Guy/Ian 😍
I liked how Seb took his time and eventually was ready for Pat and a relationship.
The book wasn't as good as the first one of the series.
It felt a little all over the place at times but I loved the message and the solid friendship the two mc's shared.
Bonus the reappearance of my favorite couple Guy/Ian 😍
November 23, 2024
I loved these two and their friendship to more which was always more! Finding their place in the world and who they belong with. The found family Con Riley created with this group just warmed me all over. Pat and Seb made my heart so happy!
November 27, 2023
1.5 Stars
February 1, 2026
Tooth-achingly sweet,
but a bit of bite. Friends find
love, more friends, Christmas.
but a bit of bite. Friends find
love, more friends, Christmas.
December 5, 2023
I couldn't resist. I just read the first book in the series and I immediately had to read this one. I loved Patrick and Sebastian in that book and these two were adorable figuring out just what the relationship they could have would look like. Patrick knew what he wanted but knew it had to be Sebastian's decision. While this is all from Sebastian's POV you could just see Patrick sitting back, waiting, and hoping that Sebastian would dare to take the leap.
These two were angsty but also so sweet. I loved watching them accept (grudgingly at first in Patrick's case) Jack into their little circle. He, in a lot of ways, is what ultimately spurs Sebastian to action. His reluctant taking of Jack under his wing was kind of the cutest thing ever.
Another wonderful holiday story from the amazing Con Riley. I love the entire extended world that these books exist within and I can't wait to see more of Jack in Rex's story (at least I'm assuming he's going to make an appearance) which is currently sitting on my TBR to get to as well. :)
These two were angsty but also so sweet. I loved watching them accept (grudgingly at first in Patrick's case) Jack into their little circle. He, in a lot of ways, is what ultimately spurs Sebastian to action. His reluctant taking of Jack under his wing was kind of the cutest thing ever.
Another wonderful holiday story from the amazing Con Riley. I love the entire extended world that these books exist within and I can't wait to see more of Jack in Rex's story (at least I'm assuming he's going to make an appearance) which is currently sitting on my TBR to get to as well. :)
December 16, 2024
I don’t know why but this one didn’t resonate with me. I don’t want to say anything negative because I don’t have anything negative to say. I’ve enjoyed and remember all the other installments so I’ll happily reread it again in the future.
December 10, 2024
Exactly what I hope for from a Christmas story! They are so sweet together and I love Pat's family. I do kind of wish there had been some more background on both of them, Seb because I'm still not quite sure who his "auntie" really was to him, and Pat because he obviously ties back to the other series and I want the details. I love that Seb finally recognized that he wasn't as caustic as he thought. Pat has such a huge heart. Happy sighs.
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December 1, 2023I'm not going to rate this..I am a HUGE fan of Con's writing and story telling prowess but the writing style in this one totally threw me off...I sort of felt like Yoda was telling the story in relation to the structure of thoughts and there was a bit too much introspection for me...I loved parts of it but unfortunately, it was a bit of a struggle to finish...Onwards and upwards!! I can not wait for whatever she brings us next!!
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