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Hope for the Holidays
Everest Jones lost the love of his life two Christmases ago. He’s had a hard time coping ever since. And sometimes he feels like he is drowning in his grief. On top of that he’s been raising three young kids on his own and barely managing to make ends meet. He’s exhausted, overwhelmed, depressed, and lonely. Can anyone or anything change that? Can he find a reason to hope again this Christmas, to let someone in to the broken pieces of his heart and allow himself to love again?
Levi Washington is no stranger to grief himself. At 25 he’s lost more than most, and he’s moved to Arizona to make a new start for himself. Running into his student and her family at the school’s trunk or treat event turns his world upside down when he finds himself instantly attracted to the handsome single father. But Everest is determined to keep Levi at bay, and Levi has to do everything he can to convince the older man that he is what Levi wants, despite his pain and insecurities. That the two of them just might be what the other needs to help make each other whole.
This book contains explicit sexual content and is not intended for anyone under the age of 18.
Please note that while these topics are handled with the utmost care, this story does deal heavily with grief and loss, both of partners and parents due to illness or accidents. Nothing is on page, but there are discussions of loss and grief. An HEA is promised for the MCs and there is plenty heart, tenderness, family feels and swoon
Levi Washington is no stranger to grief himself. At 25 he’s lost more than most, and he’s moved to Arizona to make a new start for himself. Running into his student and her family at the school’s trunk or treat event turns his world upside down when he finds himself instantly attracted to the handsome single father. But Everest is determined to keep Levi at bay, and Levi has to do everything he can to convince the older man that he is what Levi wants, despite his pain and insecurities. That the two of them just might be what the other needs to help make each other whole.
This book contains explicit sexual content and is not intended for anyone under the age of 18.
Please note that while these topics are handled with the utmost care, this story does deal heavily with grief and loss, both of partners and parents due to illness or accidents. Nothing is on page, but there are discussions of loss and grief. An HEA is promised for the MCs and there is plenty heart, tenderness, family feels and swoon
150 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 7, 2023
31 people are currently reading
261 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
November 9, 2023
Hope for the Holidays is a sweet, emotional holiday-themed novella that really tugs at your heartstrings. Both main characters, Everest and Levi are struggling with loss and grief while finding themselves drawn to one another.
Everest is processing the death of his wife and Levi is grieving the loss of his boyfriend. Both are so patient, kind, and understanding of one another, which makes for a beautiful love story that I could not get enough of. Their slow-burn romance is so wholesome as Levi is Everest's daughter's teacher. I loved how easily smitten Everest was watching Levi interact with his children and how effortless he was with them.
Levi and Everest are perfect for one another, to the point that everyone can see their connection and I loved how all their friends and family were willing to help nudge these two together as they grapple with the depth of their feelings.
Overall Hope for the Holidays is a sweet and emotional novella that really captured the love and care between these two characters exceptionally.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Everest is processing the death of his wife and Levi is grieving the loss of his boyfriend. Both are so patient, kind, and understanding of one another, which makes for a beautiful love story that I could not get enough of. Their slow-burn romance is so wholesome as Levi is Everest's daughter's teacher. I loved how easily smitten Everest was watching Levi interact with his children and how effortless he was with them.
Levi and Everest are perfect for one another, to the point that everyone can see their connection and I loved how all their friends and family were willing to help nudge these two together as they grapple with the depth of their feelings.
Overall Hope for the Holidays is a sweet and emotional novella that really captured the love and care between these two characters exceptionally.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
November 24, 2023
3.5 ⭐️
Cute but also emotional af and I was not fully prepared 😅🤣
Cute but also emotional af and I was not fully prepared 😅🤣
December 9, 2024
This book made me cry.
I loved the angsty and (the sad) emotional parts.
The grief was described and handled really well ❤️🩹
But. There were some super unrealistic bits (the 9 year old seemed wise beyond her years) the meddling family, ILYs were dropped too soon and appeared way too abrupt 🤷🏻♀️
The 150 pages felt too short.
I loved the angsty and (the sad) emotional parts.
The grief was described and handled really well ❤️🩹
But. There were some super unrealistic bits (the 9 year old seemed wise beyond her years) the meddling family, ILYs were dropped too soon and appeared way too abrupt 🤷🏻♀️
The 150 pages felt too short.
November 18, 2023
DNF @ 10%
While I’m not a huge fan of Christmas reads, I am a fan of angst… so I had some hopes that this might work out.
Who is Everest Jones? Well, I don’t know. While the blurb refers to him as Everest Jones, he is only ever called Everest North in the book. And then we have the LI, Levi Washington. Imagine if Everest hyphenated his name, he’d be half a geography text: Everest North-Washington.
For a novella, I would hope there would be more time spent on the story and not spending so much time describing physical appearances and outfits. Do I care what Everest’s boss looks like?
(John was in his sixties with short gray hair, the typical “dad bod” and a gruff voice, in case you care).
And do I need almost an entire paragraph describing Levi’s outfit and height? Not me, personally.
Today he wore a navy blue class T-shirt that clung to his slender frame, showing off his biceps and his toned upper body. His dark wash jeans hugged his thighs and ass. He was shorter than Everest by several inches, probably five ten to Everest’s six-foot-two, but that put his blind hair in direct line of Everest’s nose, and damn, that man smelled amazing.
Everest, and he is 6’2. And am I going to get additional details of Levi’s appearance at every encounter while Everest drools over him? Because this isn’t the first time his appearance is described.
And the way that some information is worked into the story is just super awkward, like the conversation with his daughter about his age. Your nine year old didn’t know how old you were?
While I’m not a huge fan of Christmas reads, I am a fan of angst… so I had some hopes that this might work out.
Who is Everest Jones? Well, I don’t know. While the blurb refers to him as Everest Jones, he is only ever called Everest North in the book. And then we have the LI, Levi Washington. Imagine if Everest hyphenated his name, he’d be half a geography text: Everest North-Washington.
For a novella, I would hope there would be more time spent on the story and not spending so much time describing physical appearances and outfits. Do I care what Everest’s boss looks like?
(John was in his sixties with short gray hair, the typical “dad bod” and a gruff voice, in case you care).
And do I need almost an entire paragraph describing Levi’s outfit and height? Not me, personally.
Today he wore a navy blue class T-shirt that clung to his slender frame, showing off his biceps and his toned upper body. His dark wash jeans hugged his thighs and ass. He was shorter than Everest by several inches, probably five ten to Everest’s six-foot-two, but that put his blind hair in direct line of Everest’s nose, and damn, that man smelled amazing.
Everest, and he is 6’2. And am I going to get additional details of Levi’s appearance at every encounter while Everest drools over him? Because this isn’t the first time his appearance is described.
And the way that some information is worked into the story is just super awkward, like the conversation with his daughter about his age. Your nine year old didn’t know how old you were?
November 26, 2023
Ooh. Was not expecting to cry so much. I loved this book!! One helluva punch to the heart. Ugh. It even had me crying in the epilogue.
Oh boy was Everest going thru it. He was raising 3 young kids alone after his wife died and was struggling financially. He was barely making ends meet, he was exhausted, he constantly felt like he was failing and he was so so lonely. He was also terrified of letting anyone in. He felt completely unworthy not only because he was a single dad but he had no money and felt he could offer nothing. He was wildly drawn to Levi but thought Levi deserved more and way better than him and his troubles.
Levi was so open and kind hearted. He wasn’t bothered by Everest’s life and responsibilities at all. He welcomed the chaos. Levi had spent several years completely alone after the untimely and devastating death of his parents and boyfriend. He was alone figuratively and literally. He craved love and family. He was enamored with Everest and only wanted a chance to see what they could have together. Levi also saw Everest for the amazing man and father he was - he saw all the amazing qualities that Everest didn’t even realize he possessed.
This book was so deeply emotional and dealt with grief head on. It was a lot to take at moments and you could really feel Everest breaking but the affection and care that Levi provided was incredibly beautiful. The author really handled life and love after loss so delicately. This had the most wonderful HEA for two men who deserved to find happiness.
Oh boy was Everest going thru it. He was raising 3 young kids alone after his wife died and was struggling financially. He was barely making ends meet, he was exhausted, he constantly felt like he was failing and he was so so lonely. He was also terrified of letting anyone in. He felt completely unworthy not only because he was a single dad but he had no money and felt he could offer nothing. He was wildly drawn to Levi but thought Levi deserved more and way better than him and his troubles.
Levi was so open and kind hearted. He wasn’t bothered by Everest’s life and responsibilities at all. He welcomed the chaos. Levi had spent several years completely alone after the untimely and devastating death of his parents and boyfriend. He was alone figuratively and literally. He craved love and family. He was enamored with Everest and only wanted a chance to see what they could have together. Levi also saw Everest for the amazing man and father he was - he saw all the amazing qualities that Everest didn’t even realize he possessed.
This book was so deeply emotional and dealt with grief head on. It was a lot to take at moments and you could really feel Everest breaking but the affection and care that Levi provided was incredibly beautiful. The author really handled life and love after loss so delicately. This had the most wonderful HEA for two men who deserved to find happiness.
November 8, 2023
If you're looking to build up a holiday tbr, this should be added!
Hope for the Holidays is the angsty yet fluffiest Christmas novella ever.
Everest is barely surviving after the loss of his wife. He's been hanging on for three years to father his three children, and it's through his daughter Rose that he meets Levi. Levi is Rose's new teacher, and Levi is also struggling, having to survive without his fiance and parents.
The chemistry/attraction between the two mcs ends in a sweet bumbling story of two lost men finding their happily ever after after tragedy. Letting go of the past is an obstacle, but eventually, these two take a risk on each other and find their happiness.
If you're looking for: single father/school teacher, age gap (+10 years), hurt/comfort with no spice, and child matchmakers that really give Hallmark holiday movie vibe then LOOK NO FURTHER.
Hope for the Holidays is the angsty yet fluffiest Christmas novella ever.
Everest is barely surviving after the loss of his wife. He's been hanging on for three years to father his three children, and it's through his daughter Rose that he meets Levi. Levi is Rose's new teacher, and Levi is also struggling, having to survive without his fiance and parents.
The chemistry/attraction between the two mcs ends in a sweet bumbling story of two lost men finding their happily ever after after tragedy. Letting go of the past is an obstacle, but eventually, these two take a risk on each other and find their happiness.
If you're looking for: single father/school teacher, age gap (+10 years), hurt/comfort with no spice, and child matchmakers that really give Hallmark holiday movie vibe then LOOK NO FURTHER.
November 23, 2023
Thank you to Felicity Snow for sending me an advanced copy of Hope for the Holidays in exchange for an honest review.
FS is honestly always a hit with me. Her stories are full of emotion and heat and the way she writes is just utter perfection. Ev and Levi were adorable together and kids were so unbelievably sweet. I just loved everything about this and I highly recommend picking up this novella this holiday season!
FS is honestly always a hit with me. Her stories are full of emotion and heat and the way she writes is just utter perfection. Ev and Levi were adorable together and kids were so unbelievably sweet. I just loved everything about this and I highly recommend picking up this novella this holiday season!
October 6, 2023
5 stars
Heartwarming story of a second chance at love. Both Everest and Levi have lost the love of their life and they're unexpectedly given another possibility to be happy again.
Everest is a widower, father of three young children and he's overwhelmend by the pain of his wife's loss, the responsibilities towards their children and the difficulties to move on with his life. Luckily for him, he has a wonderful supportive family (his mother and his brother Braden).
Levi is a teacher and he lost his parents and boyfriend in a car accident, he's alone and he survived all the pain thanks to therapy.
Levi is also Rose's (Ev's eldest daughter) teacher.
I adored this story, even if it's not the classic fluffy romantic holiday romance: Ev and Levi have to work hard for their chance to have their happy ending. For Everest, especially, is not easy to embrace a new relationship, even if he was immediately attracted to Levi, because he's scared to let go of his wife's memory and to disappoint his children. He also doesn't think he has anything to offer to an amazing young man like Levi.
I think the best quote of this book, that summarises what people who lost dear ones go through, is this sentence that Braden says to Ev: You're allowed to be sad and hurt, and still smile and laugh."
Of course it's not easy and there are several heartbreaking moments in this book but also a lot of love, tenderness, affection, care and adorable mess (the children are so sweet and I loved their interaction with Levi) and one thing I loved the most was how respectful Levi was of Ev's wife memory and how he wanted to honour and remember her.
Felicity Snow delivered another beautiful book, it's always a pleasure reading her stories.
Highly recommended.
Heartwarming story of a second chance at love. Both Everest and Levi have lost the love of their life and they're unexpectedly given another possibility to be happy again.
Everest is a widower, father of three young children and he's overwhelmend by the pain of his wife's loss, the responsibilities towards their children and the difficulties to move on with his life. Luckily for him, he has a wonderful supportive family (his mother and his brother Braden).
Levi is a teacher and he lost his parents and boyfriend in a car accident, he's alone and he survived all the pain thanks to therapy.
Levi is also Rose's (Ev's eldest daughter) teacher.
I adored this story, even if it's not the classic fluffy romantic holiday romance: Ev and Levi have to work hard for their chance to have their happy ending. For Everest, especially, is not easy to embrace a new relationship, even if he was immediately attracted to Levi, because he's scared to let go of his wife's memory and to disappoint his children. He also doesn't think he has anything to offer to an amazing young man like Levi.
I think the best quote of this book, that summarises what people who lost dear ones go through, is this sentence that Braden says to Ev: You're allowed to be sad and hurt, and still smile and laugh."
Of course it's not easy and there are several heartbreaking moments in this book but also a lot of love, tenderness, affection, care and adorable mess (the children are so sweet and I loved their interaction with Levi) and one thing I loved the most was how respectful Levi was of Ev's wife memory and how he wanted to honour and remember her.
Felicity Snow delivered another beautiful book, it's always a pleasure reading her stories.
Highly recommended.
November 7, 2023
***ARC Review***
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
This novella is really realistic in terms of dealing with the loss of a loved one. Everest’s grief is palpable from the first sentence of this story. It’s been two years since his wife has passed away. His mom and brother help out, but he still struggles to be there for his three kids and to get through each day without breaking down (from sadness and exhaustion).
Levi is the teacher taking over Everest’s daughter, Rose’s fourth grade class, since her original teacher has to go out for surgery. He calls Everest to the school one day to talk about Rose’s unusual behavior and slipping grades. The men talk about Rose’s mother’s passing. Levi reveals that he’s dealt with grief somewhat recently as well, having lost his boyfriend and parents four years prior. Both men are working on their grief and mental health. Everest sees a grief counselor. Levi sees a therapist.
This story is a slow burn. I love both the random and planned interactions between Everest and Levi in this novella. Their interest in one another and the crushes that both men develop on each other is really endearing. There is a ten year age gap between Everest and Levi. That’s one of the things that Everest is scared about, but mostly he’s worried about letting someone in again and losing them too. Levi’s patience and Everest’s family help Everest to go after what he wants. It was really sweet when Everest and Levi decided to be together. Their first Christmas together was heartwarming. Their first date was so cute.
The MCs work for their HEA, and they really deserve it. Both men help one another heal. They take it slow and don’t force anything. The emotional connection they develop is strong, and they eventually develop a physical connection as well. The epilogue is emotional and touching. There’s lots of vulnerability, tenderness, heart, and honesty in this novella. There are some heavy topics in this story, but the author does her best to handle them with sensitivity and care.
A holiday note: both Halloween and Christmas are featured in this novella. (Thanksgiving is mentioned).
This is my honest and voluntary review for the ARC I received.
This novella is really realistic in terms of dealing with the loss of a loved one. Everest’s grief is palpable from the first sentence of this story. It’s been two years since his wife has passed away. His mom and brother help out, but he still struggles to be there for his three kids and to get through each day without breaking down (from sadness and exhaustion).
Levi is the teacher taking over Everest’s daughter, Rose’s fourth grade class, since her original teacher has to go out for surgery. He calls Everest to the school one day to talk about Rose’s unusual behavior and slipping grades. The men talk about Rose’s mother’s passing. Levi reveals that he’s dealt with grief somewhat recently as well, having lost his boyfriend and parents four years prior. Both men are working on their grief and mental health. Everest sees a grief counselor. Levi sees a therapist.
This story is a slow burn. I love both the random and planned interactions between Everest and Levi in this novella. Their interest in one another and the crushes that both men develop on each other is really endearing. There is a ten year age gap between Everest and Levi. That’s one of the things that Everest is scared about, but mostly he’s worried about letting someone in again and losing them too. Levi’s patience and Everest’s family help Everest to go after what he wants. It was really sweet when Everest and Levi decided to be together. Their first Christmas together was heartwarming. Their first date was so cute.
The MCs work for their HEA, and they really deserve it. Both men help one another heal. They take it slow and don’t force anything. The emotional connection they develop is strong, and they eventually develop a physical connection as well. The epilogue is emotional and touching. There’s lots of vulnerability, tenderness, heart, and honesty in this novella. There are some heavy topics in this story, but the author does her best to handle them with sensitivity and care.
A holiday note: both Halloween and Christmas are featured in this novella. (Thanksgiving is mentioned).
October 31, 2023
3,75/5
"Hope for the holidays" est ma première petite romance de Noël de l'année ! Je suis chacune des parutions de Felicity Snow, j'avais hâte de lire sa première romance dans cette thématique.
Nous suivons Everest Jones, un homme de 35 ans, père de trois enfants. Il a perdu sa meilleure amie, son amante, l'amour de sa vie et mère de ses enfants quelques années en arrière. Ses enfants représentent son monde, ils le tirent vers le haut, mais la vie n'est si facile pour autant. Les fêtes de fin d'année ont une toute autre saveur lorsqu'on perd des proches, car leurs absences sont d'autant plus douloureuses... Levi Washington , un nouvel instituteur remplaçant de l'aînée de la fratrie va faire son apparition et va chambouler un peu l'univers de Everest.
C'est une romance vraiment toute douce et mignonne, même si le thème du processus de deuil est abordé. J'ai aimé la façon dont Levi s’immisce progressivement dans la famille de Everest. Cela reste une romance de Noël et courte qui plus est, les choses arrivent rapidement, certaines courtes ellipses temporelles sont présentes pour apporter un peu plus de réalisme à l'histoire et à ce rapprochement entre Levi et la famille Jones.
Mais, malgré tout, malgré la douleur de Everest, cette histoire fonctionne, et je me suis laissée prise par leurs destins.
Levi est un jeune homme qui a tant vécu déjà, on le comprendra rapidement. Il comprend parfaitement ce que peut ressentir Everest, et inversement. Entre eux, c'est plein de complicité et de moments tendres en famille. Levi tombe progressivement amoureux de cette famille dans laquelle il se sent si bien, on ressent d'ailleurs cette émotion, la famille retrouvée qu'il a perdue...
Malgré tout, Everest garde la tête sur les épaules, si je puis dire, je comprenais parfaitement son point de vue... Mais nous avons droit à de moments riches en émotion, comme celui où Levi se manifeste de façon impromptu dans une cuisine.
J'ai passé un très bon moment en compagnie de cette belle et grande famille, l'esprit de Noël et surtout de la famille, sont très présents. Mention spéciale aux trois enfants, adorables, qui adoptent en un rien de temps Levi, enfants témoins du bonheur et de la lumière apportée par ce jeune professeur dans cette famille.
"Hope for the holidays" est ma première petite romance de Noël de l'année ! Je suis chacune des parutions de Felicity Snow, j'avais hâte de lire sa première romance dans cette thématique.
Nous suivons Everest Jones, un homme de 35 ans, père de trois enfants. Il a perdu sa meilleure amie, son amante, l'amour de sa vie et mère de ses enfants quelques années en arrière. Ses enfants représentent son monde, ils le tirent vers le haut, mais la vie n'est si facile pour autant. Les fêtes de fin d'année ont une toute autre saveur lorsqu'on perd des proches, car leurs absences sont d'autant plus douloureuses... Levi Washington , un nouvel instituteur remplaçant de l'aînée de la fratrie va faire son apparition et va chambouler un peu l'univers de Everest.
C'est une romance vraiment toute douce et mignonne, même si le thème du processus de deuil est abordé. J'ai aimé la façon dont Levi s’immisce progressivement dans la famille de Everest. Cela reste une romance de Noël et courte qui plus est, les choses arrivent rapidement, certaines courtes ellipses temporelles sont présentes pour apporter un peu plus de réalisme à l'histoire et à ce rapprochement entre Levi et la famille Jones.
Mais, malgré tout, malgré la douleur de Everest, cette histoire fonctionne, et je me suis laissée prise par leurs destins.
Levi est un jeune homme qui a tant vécu déjà, on le comprendra rapidement. Il comprend parfaitement ce que peut ressentir Everest, et inversement. Entre eux, c'est plein de complicité et de moments tendres en famille. Levi tombe progressivement amoureux de cette famille dans laquelle il se sent si bien, on ressent d'ailleurs cette émotion, la famille retrouvée qu'il a perdue...
Malgré tout, Everest garde la tête sur les épaules, si je puis dire, je comprenais parfaitement son point de vue... Mais nous avons droit à de moments riches en émotion, comme celui où Levi se manifeste de façon impromptu dans une cuisine.
J'ai passé un très bon moment en compagnie de cette belle et grande famille, l'esprit de Noël et surtout de la famille, sont très présents. Mention spéciale aux trois enfants, adorables, qui adoptent en un rien de temps Levi, enfants témoins du bonheur et de la lumière apportée par ce jeune professeur dans cette famille.
December 11, 2023
3.75⭐️
Premier livre de Noël de l'année.
De base, je n'aime pas vraiment les livres de Noël, mais de temps en temps, il y en a qui capte mon attention.
On va suivre Everest, père de 3 enfants. Trois ans auparavant, il a perdu sa femme, l'amour de sa vie, et depuis il se bat avec son deuil. Les fêtes n'ont plus la même saveur et c'est devenu une période difficile pour lui. Mais il fait tout pour tenir le coup pour ses enfants. Levi est le nouveau professeur de sa fille à l'école et il va venir s'immiscer petit à petit dans la vie d'Everest.
C'était une petite romance de Noël tout cute, mais avec quand même le thème du deuil abordé tout au long du livre. Même après toutes ces années, le deuil d'Everrest et toujours aussi dur. Parfois, des petits gestes du quotidien lui font monter les larmes aux yeux. Et il doit aussi s'occuper ses 3 enfants. Il a beau les aimer de tout son coeur, il arrive que par moment il est exténué.
Levi, malgré son jeune âge, comprend Everest mieux que personne. Il va prendre petit à petit une place dans la vie d'Everest et j'ai aimé que cela se soit fait naturellement.
Bref, une petite romance de Noël cute que je vous recommande 🥰
Premier livre de Noël de l'année.
De base, je n'aime pas vraiment les livres de Noël, mais de temps en temps, il y en a qui capte mon attention.
On va suivre Everest, père de 3 enfants. Trois ans auparavant, il a perdu sa femme, l'amour de sa vie, et depuis il se bat avec son deuil. Les fêtes n'ont plus la même saveur et c'est devenu une période difficile pour lui. Mais il fait tout pour tenir le coup pour ses enfants. Levi est le nouveau professeur de sa fille à l'école et il va venir s'immiscer petit à petit dans la vie d'Everest.
C'était une petite romance de Noël tout cute, mais avec quand même le thème du deuil abordé tout au long du livre. Même après toutes ces années, le deuil d'Everrest et toujours aussi dur. Parfois, des petits gestes du quotidien lui font monter les larmes aux yeux. Et il doit aussi s'occuper ses 3 enfants. Il a beau les aimer de tout son coeur, il arrive que par moment il est exténué.
Levi, malgré son jeune âge, comprend Everest mieux que personne. Il va prendre petit à petit une place dans la vie d'Everest et j'ai aimé que cela se soit fait naturellement.
Bref, une petite romance de Noël cute que je vous recommande 🥰
November 30, 2023
It just wasn't really for me. I thought the dialogue was really unnatural and the two MMCs seemed to fall in love for no reason. The pacing felt off, things were rushed over that I felt needed more explanation and some things were over explained. It was both too short and too long.
December 29, 2023
Rating 4.5/5 stars
For starters, this book had me in tears. It was an emotional read from the jump, but Felicity Snow handled the conversations about grief with the utmost care. For only 150 pages, the characters felt well developed, and you fell in love with every single one of the characters. The chemistry was there between Everest and Levi. You could feel how affected each of them was by the grief, but you could also see them growing as individuals with it. I loved the representation of Everest, our bi character, and felt seen. Everests family was amazing and so supportive. His children were in the story frequently but balanced enough to feel normal and not annoying. This was such a wonderful single dad trope. It showed his struggles and normalized how hard it is to be a single parent. There were spicy scenes, but it didn't take away from the plot and was nice to have along with the difficult topic of grief.
This wasn't a 5 stars because it did feel a little insta love, and that's not my favorite. I also enjoyed the happy ending but felt it jumped to a conclusion that we didn't fully need. This is such a short and heartwarming read that packs a punch and is perfect for the holiday season!
For starters, this book had me in tears. It was an emotional read from the jump, but Felicity Snow handled the conversations about grief with the utmost care. For only 150 pages, the characters felt well developed, and you fell in love with every single one of the characters. The chemistry was there between Everest and Levi. You could feel how affected each of them was by the grief, but you could also see them growing as individuals with it. I loved the representation of Everest, our bi character, and felt seen. Everests family was amazing and so supportive. His children were in the story frequently but balanced enough to feel normal and not annoying. This was such a wonderful single dad trope. It showed his struggles and normalized how hard it is to be a single parent. There were spicy scenes, but it didn't take away from the plot and was nice to have along with the difficult topic of grief.
This wasn't a 5 stars because it did feel a little insta love, and that's not my favorite. I also enjoyed the happy ending but felt it jumped to a conclusion that we didn't fully need. This is such a short and heartwarming read that packs a punch and is perfect for the holiday season!
October 27, 2023
Hope for the Holidays is a M/M slow-burn novella (150 pages) by Felicity Snow. Please review the content warning before reading as there are discussions of loss and grief throughout the story, and take care of yourself when reading. Here’s what you can expect from Everest and Levi:
- Single parent
- 10-year age gap
- High swoon, low steam
- Love after loss and grief
- Guaranteed happily-ever-after (Felicity Snow always nails the epilogues!)
Levi Washington moved to Arizona for a fresh start after experiencing more loss at the age of 25 than others do in a lifetime. Everest is preparing for his third Christmas without the love of his life, and it feels like the heartache grows with every passing year. When he meets Levi, his daughter’s teacher, at a Halloween event, he’s surprised at the feeling of attraction. However, he believes Levi, who just seems so young, won’t want the baggage that weighs him down and subsequently pushes him away. Perhaps their underlying, deep understanding of grief and loss will be the one thing they can give one another to feel whole again.
"The bravest thing you will ever do is love again." ~Madalyn Beck
This was a very sweet, heartfelt read that I think will resonate with everyone - especially those who are facing another holiday season with a profoundly empty seat at the table. I think Felicity Snow does a fantastic job at painting Everest’s life for us and not sugarcoating it. As with Until You, Felicity allows the characters to fully feel and not feel shame for that (i.e. crying, needing to ask for help, talking through their feelings) and I think that representation is so important. When we meet Everest, your heart definitely goes out to him. He’s raising his three young children on his own, and barely making ends meet. He works with a counselor, and he does his best for his kids, but he feels like he’s not enough. Even more so, he doesn’t feel like he’s dateable or even loveable. His kids are absolutely adorable. Rose is nine now, and very close with her dad. His twins are younger, and don’t quite understand but despite what Everest says, he shows up for them and allows them to express their grief in whatever way they need to.
An understated but other important moment in this story is when Levi, Rose’s teacher, reaches out to indicate she’s having issues in school. Everest suspects it’s due to her grief, and it was just incredible to see a teacher show so much compassion towards his student. The world would be a much better place if we showed one another an ounce of that kindness. I loved the conversations that Levi and Everest had surrounding their grief and loss. So often people don’t want to talk about grief with others, they want to pretend it doesn’t exist and it just winds up being the suffocating elephant in the world. I loved them talking about it, and sharing the spirits of the people they’d respectively lost.
This book was just so sweet, to the point where that adorable epilogue gave me a toothache! Felicity Snow writes some of the cutest epilogues I’ve read, and this was no exception. Again, I appreciated that we weren’t sugarcoating the challenges Everest and Levi faced in their time together, which felt authentic. A sweet ready to kick off the holiday season!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
- Single parent
- 10-year age gap
- High swoon, low steam
- Love after loss and grief
- Guaranteed happily-ever-after (Felicity Snow always nails the epilogues!)
Levi Washington moved to Arizona for a fresh start after experiencing more loss at the age of 25 than others do in a lifetime. Everest is preparing for his third Christmas without the love of his life, and it feels like the heartache grows with every passing year. When he meets Levi, his daughter’s teacher, at a Halloween event, he’s surprised at the feeling of attraction. However, he believes Levi, who just seems so young, won’t want the baggage that weighs him down and subsequently pushes him away. Perhaps their underlying, deep understanding of grief and loss will be the one thing they can give one another to feel whole again.
"The bravest thing you will ever do is love again." ~Madalyn Beck
This was a very sweet, heartfelt read that I think will resonate with everyone - especially those who are facing another holiday season with a profoundly empty seat at the table. I think Felicity Snow does a fantastic job at painting Everest’s life for us and not sugarcoating it. As with Until You, Felicity allows the characters to fully feel and not feel shame for that (i.e. crying, needing to ask for help, talking through their feelings) and I think that representation is so important. When we meet Everest, your heart definitely goes out to him. He’s raising his three young children on his own, and barely making ends meet. He works with a counselor, and he does his best for his kids, but he feels like he’s not enough. Even more so, he doesn’t feel like he’s dateable or even loveable. His kids are absolutely adorable. Rose is nine now, and very close with her dad. His twins are younger, and don’t quite understand but despite what Everest says, he shows up for them and allows them to express their grief in whatever way they need to.
An understated but other important moment in this story is when Levi, Rose’s teacher, reaches out to indicate she’s having issues in school. Everest suspects it’s due to her grief, and it was just incredible to see a teacher show so much compassion towards his student. The world would be a much better place if we showed one another an ounce of that kindness. I loved the conversations that Levi and Everest had surrounding their grief and loss. So often people don’t want to talk about grief with others, they want to pretend it doesn’t exist and it just winds up being the suffocating elephant in the world. I loved them talking about it, and sharing the spirits of the people they’d respectively lost.
This book was just so sweet, to the point where that adorable epilogue gave me a toothache! Felicity Snow writes some of the cutest epilogues I’ve read, and this was no exception. Again, I appreciated that we weren’t sugarcoating the challenges Everest and Levi faced in their time together, which felt authentic. A sweet ready to kick off the holiday season!
I received an ARC of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 9, 2023
- second chance after loss
- single dad
- age gap
- slow burn
Oh this was a lovely but at times heartbreaking story. I started it and was enthralled. I couldn't put it down, I just had to read it in one go.
Both MCs were kind of broken and yet didn't give up.
Levi and Everest are both 'survivors' after they lost people who were very dear to them.
Everest's loss isn't quite as old as Levi's and he is definitely still struggling more.
His grief was so alive and palpable in the story, it nearly broke my heart. I just wanted to hug him and be a friend for him. I was so glad that he had his family's help with his three kids and knew he always had someone in his corner.
He is a wonderful dad even if he has his doubts about that. He is grieving that much and yet doing anything within his power to give his kids everything they could need and want, no matter how much he was struggling himself.
Levi...he moved to get a new start and he seemed to cope better with the whole situation and his loss. Remarkable if you remember that he was quite a young man when he lost his parents and boyfriend in one accident. But there was no question that he was still grieving too. And yet he is mostly upbeat and a happy guy.
Btw I found that Levi came across as very mature and I have to say because of that I could better believe that those two fit together in every way.
I think that whole theme of loss was handled great and came across as very realistic.
This might have been insta attraction but both have a lot of healing to do before they are ready to think about a new love. So that story is all in all a slow burn.
They find each other attractive but start with getting to know each other better slowly over some time. Partially through planned meetings – often initiated by Everest's daughter Rose and his own brother – and through random ones.
The children were a great part of the story and are a wonderful addition to it. I especially adore Rose ^^ such a sweet and yet sly little girl.
They all will stay with me for a while, I'm sure. They felt so real, like they were people I personally know.
Conclusion:
I appreciate the way the story was written and handled and I absolutely loved that both MCs gave each other new strength as well as space for their grief.
To see them have a connection, that slowly blossoms into a friendship and then finally love and therefore finding happiness again was just so heartwarming and wonderful.
A beautiful, well written love story about second chances after the worst of loss.
I am sure I will re-read this one at a later date, it just touched me so deep.
- single dad
- age gap
- slow burn
Oh this was a lovely but at times heartbreaking story. I started it and was enthralled. I couldn't put it down, I just had to read it in one go.
Both MCs were kind of broken and yet didn't give up.
Levi and Everest are both 'survivors' after they lost people who were very dear to them.
Everest's loss isn't quite as old as Levi's and he is definitely still struggling more.
His grief was so alive and palpable in the story, it nearly broke my heart. I just wanted to hug him and be a friend for him. I was so glad that he had his family's help with his three kids and knew he always had someone in his corner.
He is a wonderful dad even if he has his doubts about that. He is grieving that much and yet doing anything within his power to give his kids everything they could need and want, no matter how much he was struggling himself.
Levi...he moved to get a new start and he seemed to cope better with the whole situation and his loss. Remarkable if you remember that he was quite a young man when he lost his parents and boyfriend in one accident. But there was no question that he was still grieving too. And yet he is mostly upbeat and a happy guy.
Btw I found that Levi came across as very mature and I have to say because of that I could better believe that those two fit together in every way.
I think that whole theme of loss was handled great and came across as very realistic.
This might have been insta attraction but both have a lot of healing to do before they are ready to think about a new love. So that story is all in all a slow burn.
They find each other attractive but start with getting to know each other better slowly over some time. Partially through planned meetings – often initiated by Everest's daughter Rose and his own brother – and through random ones.
The children were a great part of the story and are a wonderful addition to it. I especially adore Rose ^^ such a sweet and yet sly little girl.
They all will stay with me for a while, I'm sure. They felt so real, like they were people I personally know.
Conclusion:
I appreciate the way the story was written and handled and I absolutely loved that both MCs gave each other new strength as well as space for their grief.
To see them have a connection, that slowly blossoms into a friendship and then finally love and therefore finding happiness again was just so heartwarming and wonderful.
A beautiful, well written love story about second chances after the worst of loss.
I am sure I will re-read this one at a later date, it just touched me so deep.
June 3, 2025
Hope for the Holidays is a stand-alone starring Everest North, a car mechanic, and Levi Washington, an elementary school teacher. This is told in third person from Everest and Levi’s povs.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. The writing style was on the simpler side, which wasn’t bad, but it was highly repetitive. The author relied heavily on characters crying to convey emotional pain. I wasn’t drawn into the story because the writing told the pain instead of showing the character’s pain. Almost every page had someone tearing-up/crying or some version of that, blushing/flushing/heating or some version of that, rubbing the back of their neck in embarrassment, and biting their lips. There was far too much repetition.
The blurb is also incorrect in that Everest’s last name is stated as ‘Jones.’ In the book his last name is ‘North.’ I did like that the author chose two vastly different names for the characters so it was less confusing on whose pov it was.
The children were a big part of the story, but I didn’t feel they were too much. Everest had three children so the kids appeared often. The voices of the kids weren’t consistent however. Near the end when they were giving advice to Everest, the kids sounded and acted like teenagers, even the twin five-year-old boys.
Everest was a widower and was grieving heavily for his late wife. He was having a hard time managing three kids, and not having enough money. He was stressed and didn’t think he deserved someone like Levi because Everest’s life was such a mess. Levi was portrayed like a saint or Marty Stu. He was perfect with the kids, completely understanding about Everest’s situation, and had endless patience. I liked Levi except he was too perfect. It would’ve been better if he had some flaws, especially since the author used Levi’s voice to pass on what felt like her beliefs and philosophy so much that it felt like I was being lectured.
Overall, the plot wasn’t bad, but there was far, far, too much repetition, the young kids acted like teenagers, and Levi was too perfect. It’s somewhat set around Christmas, but mostly not. I give Hope for the Holidays 2 Stars and don’t recommend it.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author. The writing style was on the simpler side, which wasn’t bad, but it was highly repetitive. The author relied heavily on characters crying to convey emotional pain. I wasn’t drawn into the story because the writing told the pain instead of showing the character’s pain. Almost every page had someone tearing-up/crying or some version of that, blushing/flushing/heating or some version of that, rubbing the back of their neck in embarrassment, and biting their lips. There was far too much repetition.
The blurb is also incorrect in that Everest’s last name is stated as ‘Jones.’ In the book his last name is ‘North.’ I did like that the author chose two vastly different names for the characters so it was less confusing on whose pov it was.
The children were a big part of the story, but I didn’t feel they were too much. Everest had three children so the kids appeared often. The voices of the kids weren’t consistent however. Near the end when they were giving advice to Everest, the kids sounded and acted like teenagers, even the twin five-year-old boys.
Everest was a widower and was grieving heavily for his late wife. He was having a hard time managing three kids, and not having enough money. He was stressed and didn’t think he deserved someone like Levi because Everest’s life was such a mess. Levi was portrayed like a saint or Marty Stu. He was perfect with the kids, completely understanding about Everest’s situation, and had endless patience. I liked Levi except he was too perfect. It would’ve been better if he had some flaws, especially since the author used Levi’s voice to pass on what felt like her beliefs and philosophy so much that it felt like I was being lectured.
Overall, the plot wasn’t bad, but there was far, far, too much repetition, the young kids acted like teenagers, and Levi was too perfect. It’s somewhat set around Christmas, but mostly not. I give Hope for the Holidays 2 Stars and don’t recommend it.
November 28, 2023
I love MM romances so I'm glad I found this short holiday story, even though it was a bit too sad for me at times, I still enjoyed Levi and Everett's story and how they found each other after their losses. They had a 10 year difference but they really complemented each other, they just needed to take the next step and allow themselves to find love again. Everett's kids were very cute and I loved how they all enjoyed being around Levi and how they knew he was good to their dad and their family.
Everett was a widower with 3 kids and despite still suffering for his wife's death, he had a lot of people that loved him and his kids, his family always supported him and it was nice reading how they all just wanted him to be happy. He and Levi were attracted to each other from the start, but Everett had a lot going on so he just focused on his kids and trying to move on from his grief. Levi was Everett's daughter's teacher so they were around each other some times and the kids loved him so Everett eventually stopped being afraid and he decided to go after what he wanted.
Levi was a teacher and he was really good with kids, he also lost his family so he moved to Arizona for a fresh start and to find a way to be happy again. He was attracted to Everett from the first time they met but he knew he was going through a lot so nothing really happened between them for a while. Everett's brother was determined to get them together so little by little they started spending time together and while Levi was honest with Everett about his feelings, he still had to wait for Everett to finally realize what he really wanted.
Their story had some sad moments thanks to their grief but I loved how Everett's kids made him understand that it was okay to be happy again and how thanks to them he decided to fight for Levi and the relationship they could have. They all were really cute together so I loved how at the end they had the family they always deserved after suffering alone for some time.
Everett was a widower with 3 kids and despite still suffering for his wife's death, he had a lot of people that loved him and his kids, his family always supported him and it was nice reading how they all just wanted him to be happy. He and Levi were attracted to each other from the start, but Everett had a lot going on so he just focused on his kids and trying to move on from his grief. Levi was Everett's daughter's teacher so they were around each other some times and the kids loved him so Everett eventually stopped being afraid and he decided to go after what he wanted.
Levi was a teacher and he was really good with kids, he also lost his family so he moved to Arizona for a fresh start and to find a way to be happy again. He was attracted to Everett from the first time they met but he knew he was going through a lot so nothing really happened between them for a while. Everett's brother was determined to get them together so little by little they started spending time together and while Levi was honest with Everett about his feelings, he still had to wait for Everett to finally realize what he really wanted.
Their story had some sad moments thanks to their grief but I loved how Everett's kids made him understand that it was okay to be happy again and how thanks to them he decided to fight for Levi and the relationship they could have. They all were really cute together so I loved how at the end they had the family they always deserved after suffering alone for some time.
November 10, 2023
Everest Jones lost his wife and love of his life two Christmases ago and he has had a hard time coping ever since. He feels like he is drowning in grief while he tries to raise their three young kids while barely managing to make ends meet. He is exhausted, overwhelmed, depressed and lonely. Teacher Levi Washington is 25 and moved to Arizona to make a fresh start after losing his parents and partner in a road crash a few years ago. Running into his student and her family at the school’s trunk or treat event turns his world upside down when he finds himself instantly attracted to the handsome single father. Everest is determined to keep Levi at bay, and Levi has to do everything he can to convince the older man that he is what Levi wants, despite his pain and insecurities. That the two of them just might be what the other needs to help make each other whole.
I enjoyed this novella with the two men at different stages of grief who understand perfectly how things are and the friendship they developed. I loved the involvement of the kids and Everest's family to persuade him that Levi was very necessary and that they could be together. I loved the way that Levi stepped in when Everest had a family emergency and how he handled everything proving that he really could be the other half of Everest's soul. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content. If you suffer from grief like Everest please talk to someone and seek help.
I enjoyed this novella with the two men at different stages of grief who understand perfectly how things are and the friendship they developed. I loved the involvement of the kids and Everest's family to persuade him that Levi was very necessary and that they could be together. I loved the way that Levi stepped in when Everest had a family emergency and how he handled everything proving that he really could be the other half of Everest's soul. Easy to read, feel and understand. This is an MM story with mature content. If you suffer from grief like Everest please talk to someone and seek help.
December 7, 2023
If you are in your Christmas reading season, here’s a MM novella to add to your list. Everest is a single dad with three kids whose wife passed away two years ago. One of my favorite things about this story is how amazing and supportive Everest’s family is. Even with his family always having his back, he’s lonely and exhausted and struggling to hold on during another holiday season without his wife. Enter his daughter’s new teacher. Levi is ten years younger and brand new to where they live in Arizona. Both Everest and Levi are dealing with their own grief and trauma, not to mention Everest being a single dad who is also struggling financially. They have to decide whether or not acting on their instant attraction is going to be worth the risk. Everest’s kids are precious, especially Rose and how she steps in to try and play little matchmaker. I adore how Everest awkwardly blurts out cute little truths the first few times he meets Levi, like how good he smells. Their attraction is obvious to everyone. I also absolutely, completely fell in love with Levi. He’s a great teacher and such a great guy. He’s lost so much in his life and is ready to open his heart to a new family. He is just so perfect for Everest, once Everest is able to overcome his insecurities and move out of his own way. Check the trigger warnings, especially if grief is something you deal with during the holidays. The tone starts off quite melancholy but does have a happy ending.
November 8, 2023
Felicity Snow is fast becoming a favourite author for delivering sweet romances that deal with some tough issues. In Hope for the Holidays we meet two MCs dealing with different stages of their grief after losing their loved ones.
Everest is really struggling to cope, with his grief, his finances and wondering if he is being a good dad to his three young children. Levi lost his partner and his parents and is new in town with no support system.
When these two meet it is insta-attraction for them both and over the course of several weeks between Halloween and Christmas they share several interactions, some instigated by family members wanting Everest to be happy again and seeing that spark of attraction between them decide to intervene.
Everest's children play a big part in this story and are a delightful addition to this single dad romance.
Everest and Levi's connection was lovely to watch grow and blossom into friendship, romance and love. This is a slow burn, you won't see a kiss until about the 80% mark and there's only one low heat scene after that, so if you are after hot bedroom action this one won't hit that mark.
A lovely sweet and as the title says hopeful romance for this holiday season.
Everest is really struggling to cope, with his grief, his finances and wondering if he is being a good dad to his three young children. Levi lost his partner and his parents and is new in town with no support system.
When these two meet it is insta-attraction for them both and over the course of several weeks between Halloween and Christmas they share several interactions, some instigated by family members wanting Everest to be happy again and seeing that spark of attraction between them decide to intervene.
Everest's children play a big part in this story and are a delightful addition to this single dad romance.
Everest and Levi's connection was lovely to watch grow and blossom into friendship, romance and love. This is a slow burn, you won't see a kiss until about the 80% mark and there's only one low heat scene after that, so if you are after hot bedroom action this one won't hit that mark.
A lovely sweet and as the title says hopeful romance for this holiday season.
November 16, 2023
A christmas romance that brings happiness back to two men who have been drowning in grief for several years. Everest lost his wife two years ago in the run up to Christmas and has been struggling ever since. You can feel his pain through the author's writing but with the support of his family, is able to get through the days with his three adorable children. Levi is brilliant in his work as a teacher, they all clearly adore him, especially Everest's nine year old daughter, Rose. Though, he has been dealing with his own grief for over four years, losing three people at once hit him hard, leading to him starting over in a new town.
A series of events brings the two men together and the slowly get to know each other, building on the attraction that both feel when they first meet. It's a series of sweet, embarrassing and heated moments that endears them to each other but, understandably Everest is extremely reticent about moving forward with anyone. It's a good thing he has very pushy and loving children and family to help him through the days but also towards happiness.
An overall heartwarming romance but there are strong moments of living with and dealing with grief, and talking through it with another who truly understands.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
A series of events brings the two men together and the slowly get to know each other, building on the attraction that both feel when they first meet. It's a series of sweet, embarrassing and heated moments that endears them to each other but, understandably Everest is extremely reticent about moving forward with anyone. It's a good thing he has very pushy and loving children and family to help him through the days but also towards happiness.
An overall heartwarming romance but there are strong moments of living with and dealing with grief, and talking through it with another who truly understands.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
December 19, 2023
⭐️Rating: 5/5
🌶️Spice: .5/5
I woke up and said, “I need something to read that pulls at my heart strings and makes me feel warm inside,” and “Hope for the Holidays” by Felicity Snow WAS JUST THAT! This novella of Everest, a newly single dad, and Levi, an Arizona transplant, is a love story that made me feel the warm and fuzzies and I cried happy tears when I finished it 🥹
HFTH is a story about finding love after loss and both the MCs have experienced loss at some point in their lives which made them question if love was ever in the cards again. But the second Everest’s daughter introduces him to her teacher, Levi, the rest was history.
Snow took an impossible situation and characters full of loss and guilt and grief and turned it into something beautiful. This book is written so beautifully that I fell victim to being lost to time and couldn’t put this book down. This is a low steam type of book… but with Ev and Levi, you don’t miss it. Their connection was deep and meaningful! BUT! The other MCs, Ev’s family, his twins, and daughter, really complete this entire novella.
If you’re looking for a pick me up, hurt/comfort type of story, this novella is for you! Felicity Snow created a little world with so much love, I about died ❤️ in the best way!
🌶️Spice: .5/5
I woke up and said, “I need something to read that pulls at my heart strings and makes me feel warm inside,” and “Hope for the Holidays” by Felicity Snow WAS JUST THAT! This novella of Everest, a newly single dad, and Levi, an Arizona transplant, is a love story that made me feel the warm and fuzzies and I cried happy tears when I finished it 🥹
HFTH is a story about finding love after loss and both the MCs have experienced loss at some point in their lives which made them question if love was ever in the cards again. But the second Everest’s daughter introduces him to her teacher, Levi, the rest was history.
Snow took an impossible situation and characters full of loss and guilt and grief and turned it into something beautiful. This book is written so beautifully that I fell victim to being lost to time and couldn’t put this book down. This is a low steam type of book… but with Ev and Levi, you don’t miss it. Their connection was deep and meaningful! BUT! The other MCs, Ev’s family, his twins, and daughter, really complete this entire novella.
If you’re looking for a pick me up, hurt/comfort type of story, this novella is for you! Felicity Snow created a little world with so much love, I about died ❤️ in the best way!
October 10, 2023
This is a Christmas based novella that packs a hell of a lot of emotion in. An absolutely beautiful, beautiful story. Christmas is an emotional time because it brings up past memories, happy and sad. Time to reflect on loved ones who are deeply missed. This story is about loss and loneliness but also finding feelings once again and longing for life to re-start. The cookie cutters scene was just the start of me sobbing. It's a high emotion book; grief still very present. It is written with care and respect and I loved it for not rushing the fireworks in the bedroom. We know Everest and Levi have chemistry but they are also still fragile and vulnerable. I adored Everest, his nervous habit of verbalalising his thoughts were so funny. His feeling of being a 'failure' because parenting is hard. He was amazing and there was no way Levi would resist falling in love with him. Levi bought energy and fun back to Everest and they dared to dream again. The story has to jump slightly to get the HEA in, after all, it's a romance and the ending is gorgeous. This story is short, but packs a real heartfelt punch and I will remember Everest and Levi for a long time.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 8, 2023
Felicity Snow has a way of drawing you into a complex situation with her characters while also leaving you asking questions. Her works are well constructed and always cover subject matter that complicates the plot.
In Hope for the Holidays, Snow manages to paint the picture of bi father of three still reeling from the loss of his wife, but slowly yearning for the closeness and ultimately love that is provided by her daughter's teacher. She never tips her hat as to how the wife passed, some may say that information is immaterial, and others may think is a missed opportunity, but with the brevity of her overall text, there are only so many details that can fit within the construct.
As always with Snow's work, it's properly paced, entertaining, and complete with an HEA. My only reason for this not being a 5-star is that I think this particular story is too short. I have so many questions about both MC's backgrounds that weren't answered. It may have been the intent from the start.
In Hope for the Holidays, Snow manages to paint the picture of bi father of three still reeling from the loss of his wife, but slowly yearning for the closeness and ultimately love that is provided by her daughter's teacher. She never tips her hat as to how the wife passed, some may say that information is immaterial, and others may think is a missed opportunity, but with the brevity of her overall text, there are only so many details that can fit within the construct.
As always with Snow's work, it's properly paced, entertaining, and complete with an HEA. My only reason for this not being a 5-star is that I think this particular story is too short. I have so many questions about both MC's backgrounds that weren't answered. It may have been the intent from the start.
December 16, 2024
This is a single dad x teacher Christmas romance, featuring Everest North and Levi Washington, and is standalone novella.
Everest is a single dad to three children, he lost his wife a couple of years ago and things are sometimes a struggle for him.
Levi is Everest’s daughter’s new teacher, he knows what it is like to lose people you love as he lost his boyfriend and parents in a car accident.
When Levi and Everest meet it’s pretty much Insta-attraction for both of them but Everest doesn’t think he is good enough for Levi.
This book is a super slow burn. Both MCs are dealing with grief and losing their first loved. Everest has hang ups on what he can offer Levi, so that blocks him making a move. They are both sweethearts and do get their HEA but it’s closer to the end of the book when they finally get together. This book is more about the emotions, it’s sweet and heartfelt.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone novella
MM Christmas romance
Single dad x teacher
Age gap (35/25)
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Slow burn
Adorable family
HEA
Everest is a single dad to three children, he lost his wife a couple of years ago and things are sometimes a struggle for him.
Levi is Everest’s daughter’s new teacher, he knows what it is like to lose people you love as he lost his boyfriend and parents in a car accident.
When Levi and Everest meet it’s pretty much Insta-attraction for both of them but Everest doesn’t think he is good enough for Levi.
This book is a super slow burn. Both MCs are dealing with grief and losing their first loved. Everest has hang ups on what he can offer Levi, so that blocks him making a move. They are both sweethearts and do get their HEA but it’s closer to the end of the book when they finally get together. This book is more about the emotions, it’s sweet and heartfelt.
Things to expect in this book are:
Standalone novella
MM Christmas romance
Single dad x teacher
Age gap (35/25)
Hurt / Comfort
Living with grief
Slow burn
Adorable family
HEA
December 24, 2024
This one melted my heart into a puddle of festive goo. Hope for the Holidays is a perfectly heart-warming holiday read.
We’ve got Everest, a 35-year-old single dad of three, navigating life two years after losing his wife. We meet him on the anniversary of her death and, yes, I was already crying on the first page. Enter Levi, a 25-year-old primary school teacher with a heart of gold.
The cookie-making scene with Levi bringing his own,special cookie cutters was beautiful, and another teary moment for me.
The way Levi gently becomes part of Everest’s family is pure slow-burn perfection.
This book is sweet, soft, and oh-so-wholesome. There’s almost no spice, but honestly, it didn’t need it - the emotional connection between Everest and Levi more than makes up for it.
I cried in the epilogue, happy tears, obviously.
If you’re after a tender, low-angst Christmas romance with all the warm, fuzzy vibes, Hope for the Holidays will absolutely deliver.
What to expect:
Single dad
Christmas
Teacher x parent
Age gap (35/25)
Bi rep
Grief
Care-taking
Slow burn
Very low spice
We’ve got Everest, a 35-year-old single dad of three, navigating life two years after losing his wife. We meet him on the anniversary of her death and, yes, I was already crying on the first page. Enter Levi, a 25-year-old primary school teacher with a heart of gold.
The cookie-making scene with Levi bringing his own,special cookie cutters was beautiful, and another teary moment for me.
The way Levi gently becomes part of Everest’s family is pure slow-burn perfection.
This book is sweet, soft, and oh-so-wholesome. There’s almost no spice, but honestly, it didn’t need it - the emotional connection between Everest and Levi more than makes up for it.
I cried in the epilogue, happy tears, obviously.
If you’re after a tender, low-angst Christmas romance with all the warm, fuzzy vibes, Hope for the Holidays will absolutely deliver.
What to expect:
Single dad
Christmas
Teacher x parent
Age gap (35/25)
Bi rep
Grief
Care-taking
Slow burn
Very low spice
November 8, 2023
An adorable little novella. Novellas are not my favourite about new characters because I feel like we just don’t get to know them as well, but this one still managed to be adorable. From Everest’s kids and brother trying to set him up to Levi being all in.
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Loss is hard everyone but everyone deals with it differently as shown but Levi is not afraid to jump in (even with vomit - brave man)
2) Love Ben being a typical grossed out boy over kissing and how incredibly sweet little Jack is and how meddling Rose is lol and
3) Love that they took things slow and discussed talking to a counsellor as it is a big adjustment for both of them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
PS — if this was to be turned into a full novel, I’d love to see more of these adventures!
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #novella #hopefortheholidays #felicitysnow @felsnowauthor
Reasons I Recommend:
1) Loss is hard everyone but everyone deals with it differently as shown but Levi is not afraid to jump in (even with vomit - brave man)
2) Love Ben being a typical grossed out boy over kissing and how incredibly sweet little Jack is and how meddling Rose is lol and
3) Love that they took things slow and discussed talking to a counsellor as it is a big adjustment for both of them.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
PS — if this was to be turned into a full novel, I’d love to see more of these adventures!
#briereads #brierecommends #2023goodreadsreadingchallenge #reviewedongoodreads #reviewedoninstagram #bookworm #lovetoread #idratherbereading #mmromance #novella #hopefortheholidays #felicitysnow @felsnowauthor
Read
November 13, 2023📖ARC review 📖
What to expect:
🌵Christmas in Arizona
🌲Single father
🌵Love after Loss/Grief
🌲Low Steam
🌵Hurt/Comfort
🌲Found family
🌵All the swoon
🌲Age gap
💬 Final thoughts 💬
This became one of my favorite books by Felicity and I have no complaints because the execution was perfectly done.
😊Aspects that I enjoyed 😊
📝I liked that the romance wasn't rushed, which allowed me to learn more about the characters' backgrounds and their struggles.
📝The relationship that Everest has with her children feels organic and realistic, and this was thanks to the fact that we can see how he interacts with them. That way their children do not appear as artisanal figures who are only there and do not contribute to the development of the story.
📝 In the end I like that the novel is narrated in the third person, but it must be because I enjoy how the author writes it too much.
In closing, this was a page-turner and heartfelt read.
What to expect:
🌵Christmas in Arizona
🌲Single father
🌵Love after Loss/Grief
🌲Low Steam
🌵Hurt/Comfort
🌲Found family
🌵All the swoon
🌲Age gap
💬 Final thoughts 💬
This became one of my favorite books by Felicity and I have no complaints because the execution was perfectly done.
😊Aspects that I enjoyed 😊
📝I liked that the romance wasn't rushed, which allowed me to learn more about the characters' backgrounds and their struggles.
📝The relationship that Everest has with her children feels organic and realistic, and this was thanks to the fact that we can see how he interacts with them. That way their children do not appear as artisanal figures who are only there and do not contribute to the development of the story.
📝 In the end I like that the novel is narrated in the third person, but it must be because I enjoy how the author writes it too much.
In closing, this was a page-turner and heartfelt read.
December 8, 2023
Bem, essa novela conta a história natalina de Everest, um pai que perdeu Katie, esposa falecida, e como ele lida com seus filhos, ambos num luto recente. Logo, ele conhece o professor de sua filha Rose, que se chama Levi, e eles se apaixonam a primeira vista. Mas será que ele conseguirá deixar alguém entrar em sua vida, depois da morte de Katie?
A novela é como se fosse uma montanha-russa, uma hora é muito bom, outra hora, bem morno. Me incomodei um tiquinho por conta do slow burn, que é muito slow, por particularmente não sou muito fã, mas há quem goste, a novela aborda o luto e a dor das mudanças de uma forma que te prende a história, tornando a escrita do livro fluída, me apeguei muito com o Levi, mas não tão quanto com o Everest, Levi nunca errou e se errou foi tentando acertar, assim como a filha de Eve. Recomendo esta novela para quem quer uma história natalina que te deixa de coração quentinho.
A novela é como se fosse uma montanha-russa, uma hora é muito bom, outra hora, bem morno. Me incomodei um tiquinho por conta do slow burn, que é muito slow, por particularmente não sou muito fã, mas há quem goste, a novela aborda o luto e a dor das mudanças de uma forma que te prende a história, tornando a escrita do livro fluída, me apeguei muito com o Levi, mas não tão quanto com o Everest, Levi nunca errou e se errou foi tentando acertar, assim como a filha de Eve. Recomendo esta novela para quem quer uma história natalina que te deixa de coração quentinho.
November 8, 2023
This book! 😍 My poor heart. I felt so many things! I grieved with both Everest and Levi. I felt their pain and sorrow 😭. I healed with them too. I feel like I grew as a person and maybe even view my own grief and struggles a little differently now.
These two men are precious beyond belief, even if I sometimes wanted to shake Everest until he got his head on right.
If ever there was a character who steals the show and your heart, it is Rose. So much wisdom and compassion and smarts, but still being a broken nine year old little girl. I just wanted to hug her and high five her and introduce her to my daughter, so they could be friends.
Honestly, there isn't a single character that you won't absolutely fall in love with. This was such a great story and I could have read so many more pages of it.
These two men are precious beyond belief, even if I sometimes wanted to shake Everest until he got his head on right.
If ever there was a character who steals the show and your heart, it is Rose. So much wisdom and compassion and smarts, but still being a broken nine year old little girl. I just wanted to hug her and high five her and introduce her to my daughter, so they could be friends.
Honestly, there isn't a single character that you won't absolutely fall in love with. This was such a great story and I could have read so many more pages of it.
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