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Omega Christmas Elves #4
Cheeky Elf
When an omega elf in distress needs rescuing, can the alpha with a crush on him save him without ruining himself…again?
Elijah
None of my friends know my secret or anything about the family and community I come from. Not celebrating Christmas is only the beginning. If my family finds out that I’m working at the Barrington Christmas Market, I’ll be in so much trouble that the only way out would be marrying someone I hate.
Now the guy I’ve been dreaming of from afar is offering to help me…but does he really know what he’s getting into?
Barnaby
Elijah needs me, and if there’s one thing I know I’m really good at, it’s helping people in need. But helping nearly ruined my life once before. Can I take the risk of losing everything all over again? Or will it be different this time?
I think I might really love Elijah, and after what we share during a mini-heat, how could I possibly turn my back on him?
Cheeky Elf is the fourth in a series of novellas about the Barrington Christmas Market. It is a spin-off of the Bangers & Mash series and involves a group of omega friends and their misadventures, Heat Lightning pills being swallowed at the wrong time, a cult that doesn’t celebrate Christmas, a daring escape, an offer that’s really hard to refuse, and the best found family an omega could ever ask for.
Elijah
None of my friends know my secret or anything about the family and community I come from. Not celebrating Christmas is only the beginning. If my family finds out that I’m working at the Barrington Christmas Market, I’ll be in so much trouble that the only way out would be marrying someone I hate.
Now the guy I’ve been dreaming of from afar is offering to help me…but does he really know what he’s getting into?
Barnaby
Elijah needs me, and if there’s one thing I know I’m really good at, it’s helping people in need. But helping nearly ruined my life once before. Can I take the risk of losing everything all over again? Or will it be different this time?
I think I might really love Elijah, and after what we share during a mini-heat, how could I possibly turn my back on him?
Cheeky Elf is the fourth in a series of novellas about the Barrington Christmas Market. It is a spin-off of the Bangers & Mash series and involves a group of omega friends and their misadventures, Heat Lightning pills being swallowed at the wrong time, a cult that doesn’t celebrate Christmas, a daring escape, an offer that’s really hard to refuse, and the best found family an omega could ever ask for.
118 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 15, 2023
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
December 22, 2023
Short, Emotional Holiday Read
Elijah & Barnaby
Rating: 3.0 ⭐
- A/B/O
- Holiday Romance
- MM Romance
- Cult Presence
- Widower
This book has a heavier plot than the others in this series. The series has been fun, flirty with warm holiday feelings throughout. In this installment the book has a lot of emotion and inner turmoil that Elijah has to deal with all the way until the end of the book when he finally excepts his new existence.
Elijah has maintained his secrets from everyone at the Christmas market, even his fellow elf friends. He spends each day terrified that he will be found out by his peers or by his community/family. This is why he's been so standoffish with everyone throughout the prior books and explains his behavior. He has been attracted to Barnaby since the first day of the market but with his secrets, he can't get his hopes up of every being with such an alpha. Elijah wants out of his community and is trying to get himself to a point where he can leave, but he won't accept help for fear of what the community will do to the ones who assist.
Barnaby has also been attracted to Elijah since the first day and has been able to see through the façade he's been putting on in front of others. He's not sure why Elijah is hiding what's bothering him but it makes Barnaby very protective of him, especially with the pull towards him that he can't ignore. Barnaby has already been burned before helping a friend in need and it almost ruined him completely. He questions himself at every turn if he is making the right decisions and what will the implications be in the future. Even with the possible downfall, he knows he wants Elijah to be his and to create a family together.
When Elijah accidentally takes a Heat Lightning pill with his daily vitamins, everything changes in an instant as he runs to Barnaby for help. It was great to see the other elves and their alphas support the couple and really rally together. I didn't like the story ended so abruptly right after Elijah accepts Barnaby and his found family. You don't really get to see them happy together because of all the seriousness of Elijah's family life in this story.
Although MPREG exist in this Omegaverse, there is no pregnancy in this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: HFN
Elijah & Barnaby
Rating: 3.0 ⭐
- A/B/O
- Holiday Romance
- MM Romance
- Cult Presence
- Widower
This book has a heavier plot than the others in this series. The series has been fun, flirty with warm holiday feelings throughout. In this installment the book has a lot of emotion and inner turmoil that Elijah has to deal with all the way until the end of the book when he finally excepts his new existence.
Elijah has maintained his secrets from everyone at the Christmas market, even his fellow elf friends. He spends each day terrified that he will be found out by his peers or by his community/family. This is why he's been so standoffish with everyone throughout the prior books and explains his behavior. He has been attracted to Barnaby since the first day of the market but with his secrets, he can't get his hopes up of every being with such an alpha. Elijah wants out of his community and is trying to get himself to a point where he can leave, but he won't accept help for fear of what the community will do to the ones who assist.
Barnaby has also been attracted to Elijah since the first day and has been able to see through the façade he's been putting on in front of others. He's not sure why Elijah is hiding what's bothering him but it makes Barnaby very protective of him, especially with the pull towards him that he can't ignore. Barnaby has already been burned before helping a friend in need and it almost ruined him completely. He questions himself at every turn if he is making the right decisions and what will the implications be in the future. Even with the possible downfall, he knows he wants Elijah to be his and to create a family together.
When Elijah accidentally takes a Heat Lightning pill with his daily vitamins, everything changes in an instant as he runs to Barnaby for help. It was great to see the other elves and their alphas support the couple and really rally together. I didn't like the story ended so abruptly right after Elijah accepts Barnaby and his found family. You don't really get to see them happy together because of all the seriousness of Elijah's family life in this story.
Although MPREG exist in this Omegaverse, there is no pregnancy in this book.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Verse: No
HEA: HFN
January 3, 2024
Cheeky Elf is the fourth book in the ‘Omega Christmas Elves’ series. It stars Elijah, an omega, and Barnaby, an Alpha. This is told in first person from both Elijah and Barnaby’s povs.
Before reading this book, I’d read books two and three, so I had a pretty good idea of who the characters were and the series background. The blurb gives a good idea of what the plot is about so I won’t go into that much. What I liked about this story was that it covered the serious topic of cults, this wasn’t just a fluffy read. I was on the way to giving this story five stars, but something kept coming up that didn’t work for me concerning Elijah.
This book is titled, Cheeky Elf. Quite often Barnaby refers to Elijah as ‘cheeky elf.’ The cover even shows an image of a happy-go-lucky, fun-loving elf. That couldn’t be further from the truth when referring to Elijah. In the previous books, Elijah is made fun of by his friends and other elves because he is so solemn, so fastidious, a bit controlling, works extra hard, and he doesn’t smile. He’s far too serious. He is not a cheeky elf. I have no idea why the author referred to Elijah that way or used the image of a happy model when that wasn’t Elijah at all. The cover model from Sassy Elf would have worked better. All I can think, was the author wanted to continue the series with a cute theme so chose ‘cheeky’ for Elijah. But like I mentioned, no matter how many times the word was pushed on the reader by Barnaby, Elijah was not cheeky. I’d call him, ‘Solemn Elf’ or ‘Serious Elf.’ Elijah from the previous books and in this book is not consistent with the cover, or Barnaby’s description of him. Instead, the author forces readers to accept a description inconsistent with previous books and how Elijah behaves in this book. This is why I can’t give this the stars I wanted to give it originally.
Other than that, previous characters make a reappearance, there’s still problems with the mayor as he tries to sabotage Felix’s partner, Councilman ‘Hottie,’ and his plans for the Christmas event.
I liked Cheeky Elf more than Books Two and Three, but the inconsistency with the cover model, and Elijah’s personality, not so much that he behaved differently, he didn’t, but that the author used Barnaby to push the narrative that Elijah was ‘cheeky’ when he wasn’t. Elijah was solemn, a bit bossy, and at times sad and fearful. He’s far from cheeky in this story. I still recommend this book. I’ve enjoyed all the stories so far. I give this, 4 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Before reading this book, I’d read books two and three, so I had a pretty good idea of who the characters were and the series background. The blurb gives a good idea of what the plot is about so I won’t go into that much. What I liked about this story was that it covered the serious topic of cults, this wasn’t just a fluffy read. I was on the way to giving this story five stars, but something kept coming up that didn’t work for me concerning Elijah.
This book is titled, Cheeky Elf. Quite often Barnaby refers to Elijah as ‘cheeky elf.’ The cover even shows an image of a happy-go-lucky, fun-loving elf. That couldn’t be further from the truth when referring to Elijah. In the previous books, Elijah is made fun of by his friends and other elves because he is so solemn, so fastidious, a bit controlling, works extra hard, and he doesn’t smile. He’s far too serious. He is not a cheeky elf. I have no idea why the author referred to Elijah that way or used the image of a happy model when that wasn’t Elijah at all. The cover model from Sassy Elf would have worked better. All I can think, was the author wanted to continue the series with a cute theme so chose ‘cheeky’ for Elijah. But like I mentioned, no matter how many times the word was pushed on the reader by Barnaby, Elijah was not cheeky. I’d call him, ‘Solemn Elf’ or ‘Serious Elf.’ Elijah from the previous books and in this book is not consistent with the cover, or Barnaby’s description of him. Instead, the author forces readers to accept a description inconsistent with previous books and how Elijah behaves in this book. This is why I can’t give this the stars I wanted to give it originally.
Other than that, previous characters make a reappearance, there’s still problems with the mayor as he tries to sabotage Felix’s partner, Councilman ‘Hottie,’ and his plans for the Christmas event.
I liked Cheeky Elf more than Books Two and Three, but the inconsistency with the cover model, and Elijah’s personality, not so much that he behaved differently, he didn’t, but that the author used Barnaby to push the narrative that Elijah was ‘cheeky’ when he wasn’t. Elijah was solemn, a bit bossy, and at times sad and fearful. He’s far from cheeky in this story. I still recommend this book. I’ve enjoyed all the stories so far. I give this, 4 Stars.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
June 11, 2024
old post reposted
M.M. Farmer's "Cheeky Elf" is the fourth novel in her new Omega Christmas series. It's in the same universe as her Bangers & Mash series.
["When an omega elf in distress needs rescuing, can the alpha with a crush on him save him without ruining himself…again?
Elijah
None of my friends know my secret or anything about the family and community I come from. Not celebrating Christmas is only the beginning. If my family finds out that I’m working at the Barrington Christmas Market, I’ll be in so much trouble that the only way out would be marrying someone I hate.
Now the guy I’ve been dreaming of from afar is offering to help me…but does he really know what he’s getting into?
Barnaby
Elijah needs me, and if there’s one thing I know I’m really good at, it’s helping people in need. But helping nearly ruined my life once before. Can I take the risk of losing everything all over again? Or will it be different this time?
I think I might really love Elijah, and after what we share during a mini-heat, how could I possibly turn my back on him?"]
This one was a hard read. Elijah's secret, his family situation, the risks he took, the ultimatum he was given? Not many people are as strong as he is/was. Barnaby made sure Elijah knew just how loved and cared for he was, by himself and all of his friends/found family.
The romance aspect was a little quick (a lot quick), but they say "when you know, you know", and they knew.
#naughtyelf #flirtyelf #sassyelf #cheekyelf #sweetelf #omegachristmas #omegachristmasseries #mmfarmer #bangersandmash #bangersandmashseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
M.M. Farmer's "Cheeky Elf" is the fourth novel in her new Omega Christmas series. It's in the same universe as her Bangers & Mash series.
["When an omega elf in distress needs rescuing, can the alpha with a crush on him save him without ruining himself…again?
Elijah
None of my friends know my secret or anything about the family and community I come from. Not celebrating Christmas is only the beginning. If my family finds out that I’m working at the Barrington Christmas Market, I’ll be in so much trouble that the only way out would be marrying someone I hate.
Now the guy I’ve been dreaming of from afar is offering to help me…but does he really know what he’s getting into?
Barnaby
Elijah needs me, and if there’s one thing I know I’m really good at, it’s helping people in need. But helping nearly ruined my life once before. Can I take the risk of losing everything all over again? Or will it be different this time?
I think I might really love Elijah, and after what we share during a mini-heat, how could I possibly turn my back on him?"]
This one was a hard read. Elijah's secret, his family situation, the risks he took, the ultimatum he was given? Not many people are as strong as he is/was. Barnaby made sure Elijah knew just how loved and cared for he was, by himself and all of his friends/found family.
The romance aspect was a little quick (a lot quick), but they say "when you know, you know", and they knew.
#naughtyelf #flirtyelf #sassyelf #cheekyelf #sweetelf #omegachristmas #omegachristmasseries #mmfarmer #bangersandmash #bangersandmashseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
December 29, 2023
Finding Each Other . . .
Elijah Mercy comes from a cult community family that never celebrated Christmas, so he is dreading the family ever discovering that he is currently working at the Barrington Christmas Market. His father had even arranged a marriage for him that he didn’t want and was trying to avoid.
Alpha Barnaby Snow has been attracted to Elijah from the first time they met, and he feels very protective of the Omega. He knows Elijah needs something from him, but he had been burned in the past trying to help a friend, so he is being cautious. When Elijah takes a Heat Lightning pill by mistake along with his vitamins, the pill puts the omega into a mini-heat and he desperately seeks Barnaby’s help to get through it. Barnaby is convinced that he wants a permanent relationship and family with Elijah, whom he suspects is his mate. Will this incident be enough to bring them together? Or will it scare them away from each other once they get through it? Will Elijah’s cult family dynamics destroy any hope for the two of them being together? Would they try to enforce the arranged marriage with Earnest?
The interesting thing for me was seeing how “family” came in many different ways. It’s not only one’s blood-family that matters throughout life, but the friends who become another part of the family we get to choose who love us as well and are there for us. Family is extremely important to Elijah. But his family at the Barrington Christmas Market was likewise a big part of his life and support system. Never discount friends. The real ones are always there for you when you need them the most.
Elijah Mercy comes from a cult community family that never celebrated Christmas, so he is dreading the family ever discovering that he is currently working at the Barrington Christmas Market. His father had even arranged a marriage for him that he didn’t want and was trying to avoid.
Alpha Barnaby Snow has been attracted to Elijah from the first time they met, and he feels very protective of the Omega. He knows Elijah needs something from him, but he had been burned in the past trying to help a friend, so he is being cautious. When Elijah takes a Heat Lightning pill by mistake along with his vitamins, the pill puts the omega into a mini-heat and he desperately seeks Barnaby’s help to get through it. Barnaby is convinced that he wants a permanent relationship and family with Elijah, whom he suspects is his mate. Will this incident be enough to bring them together? Or will it scare them away from each other once they get through it? Will Elijah’s cult family dynamics destroy any hope for the two of them being together? Would they try to enforce the arranged marriage with Earnest?
The interesting thing for me was seeing how “family” came in many different ways. It’s not only one’s blood-family that matters throughout life, but the friends who become another part of the family we get to choose who love us as well and are there for us. Family is extremely important to Elijah. But his family at the Barrington Christmas Market was likewise a big part of his life and support system. Never discount friends. The real ones are always there for you when you need them the most.
December 15, 2023
I really like this addition to the Omega Christmas Elves series.
Elijah is an Omega with a secret. He is terrified to be found out and this explains his more serious behaviour in the group of friends.
He is attracted to Barnaby but with his background he can't get his hopes up.
I love how the author managed to incorporate the seriousness of Elijah's family life into this story and while obviously the Heat Lightning pill is causing the steam level to start rising to sky high, it's a lot more than just a hot novella.
Barnaby has been burned before by his desire to step in and help and while he is drawn to Elijah, he is treating it careful, well, until the heat is causing a snowball effect.
It is great to see how the friendship group and their alphas are all rallying together to help Elijah and show him how a family is made up of more than blood relatives.
I would have loved to see this book as a full length novel to explore more of Elijah and his family and especially I would love to see how the future looks for him and Barnaby.
Can't wait for the final book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Elijah is an Omega with a secret. He is terrified to be found out and this explains his more serious behaviour in the group of friends.
He is attracted to Barnaby but with his background he can't get his hopes up.
I love how the author managed to incorporate the seriousness of Elijah's family life into this story and while obviously the Heat Lightning pill is causing the steam level to start rising to sky high, it's a lot more than just a hot novella.
Barnaby has been burned before by his desire to step in and help and while he is drawn to Elijah, he is treating it careful, well, until the heat is causing a snowball effect.
It is great to see how the friendship group and their alphas are all rallying together to help Elijah and show him how a family is made up of more than blood relatives.
I would have loved to see this book as a full length novel to explore more of Elijah and his family and especially I would love to see how the future looks for him and Barnaby.
Can't wait for the final book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2023
Omega Elijah is working as an elf at the Barrington Christmas Market where no one knows about his family or origins as he is currently stuck in an ultra-religious community where Christmas is outlawed. Elijah has been crushing on Alpha Barnaby who is now offering to help him out but does he realise just what he is getting into? Barnaby almost ruined his life once before and he knows Elijah needs his help - the question is can he take the risk of losing everything all over again? Or will it be different this time? Having taken Elijah through a mini-heat Barnaby thinks he loves Elijah so just cannot turn his back on him.
This was an interesting story about the closed community with its draconian ways and the pressure that Elijsh was feeling. Therefore it was great that he was able to start to make a plan to get away from there. His Papa seemed wonderful and I loved the way that the story ended. Lots of emotions in this story as Elijah and Barnaby both went through thought processes as they struggled to work out what to do. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content set in the Omegaverse with an Alpha/Omega pairing.
This was an interesting story about the closed community with its draconian ways and the pressure that Elijsh was feeling. Therefore it was great that he was able to start to make a plan to get away from there. His Papa seemed wonderful and I loved the way that the story ended. Lots of emotions in this story as Elijah and Barnaby both went through thought processes as they struggled to work out what to do. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content set in the Omegaverse with an Alpha/Omega pairing.
November 17, 2025
Holiday Cheer Meter: 2/5
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
1st person, past tense, dual PoV
Elijah Mercy (early 20s), omega (pecan pie scent), elf at the Barrington Christmas Market
Barnaby Snow (early 30s), alpha (electrical storm scent), hand-crafted wooden furniture maker
I absolutely loved this one. It will be hard to beat. The way the Heat Lightning pill was worked into the story was ingenious. I thought it was an incredibly clever way to bring these two together.
Given Elijah's background (and even Barnaby's to a certain extent), this one is a little heavier that the rest of the series, but not so much that it was a difficult read, just a little more somber. The drawn between these two was palpable, but love isn't easy sometimes so they needed to choose each other too, which I adored.
I loved how Elijah's fellow elves rallied around to show him the found family he was a part of. There was just so much heart there.
This wraps up a little too quickly and neatly to truly be satisfying, but I've felt that way about the previous three books as well, so I think that's just how this series is going to be - maybe book five will include a huge wrap-up epilogue to allow readers to bask in the warm fuzzy feelings of all these couples fully settled and happy. A girl can wish, right?
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
1st person, past tense, dual PoV
Elijah Mercy (early 20s), omega (pecan pie scent), elf at the Barrington Christmas Market
Barnaby Snow (early 30s), alpha (electrical storm scent), hand-crafted wooden furniture maker
I absolutely loved this one. It will be hard to beat. The way the Heat Lightning pill was worked into the story was ingenious. I thought it was an incredibly clever way to bring these two together.
Given Elijah's background (and even Barnaby's to a certain extent), this one is a little heavier that the rest of the series, but not so much that it was a difficult read, just a little more somber. The drawn between these two was palpable, but love isn't easy sometimes so they needed to choose each other too, which I adored.
I loved how Elijah's fellow elves rallied around to show him the found family he was a part of. There was just so much heart there.
This wraps up a little too quickly and neatly to truly be satisfying, but I've felt that way about the previous three books as well, so I think that's just how this series is going to be - maybe book five will include a huge wrap-up epilogue to allow readers to bask in the warm fuzzy feelings of all these couples fully settled and happy. A girl can wish, right?
December 23, 2023
Sweet holiday romance
Elijah is a sweet omega who's trying desperately to change his life.
He's part of a religious community that doesn't interact with the outside world.
As a result he comes off a bit snobby but it's only because he's been told so many lies and doesn't know how to interact with people.
When Kevin unwittingly causes Elijah problems it also sets him up for his bid to freedom.
Barnaby is an alpha at the Christmas market who has had his eye on Elijah for quite a while now.
Kevin's ineptitude beings them closer and they slowly realize they're fated mates.
It's hard going for Barnaby because Elijah has had a lifetime of falsehoods drilled into him and he's on the brink of trying to get back into the community if only to be able to see and still care for his family.
Luckily things work out for the best and his friends show him he has a new family and support system now.
Elijah is a sweet omega who's trying desperately to change his life.
He's part of a religious community that doesn't interact with the outside world.
As a result he comes off a bit snobby but it's only because he's been told so many lies and doesn't know how to interact with people.
When Kevin unwittingly causes Elijah problems it also sets him up for his bid to freedom.
Barnaby is an alpha at the Christmas market who has had his eye on Elijah for quite a while now.
Kevin's ineptitude beings them closer and they slowly realize they're fated mates.
It's hard going for Barnaby because Elijah has had a lifetime of falsehoods drilled into him and he's on the brink of trying to get back into the community if only to be able to see and still care for his family.
Luckily things work out for the best and his friends show him he has a new family and support system now.
December 24, 2023
Elijah was engaged but didn’t want it but his father said goes, he got a job at the Christmas market and hid his paychecks. Had a crush on Barnaby one of the booth owners found out that they lived pretty close to each other. His papa got the vitamins out of his coat pocket and gave them to him which included the heat lightning pill that Kevin had give him jokingly. So he went to Barnaby for help instead of going back home they went to work together his family and their preachers found him there, his paychecks were tore up, then he was disowned and shunned. Missed his papa and brothers and sisters so much he almost did what Earnest said to do but Barnaby had everyone telling him he was family. His papa and brothers and sisters showed up there after they were told what was going to happen to them. Good book!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 25, 2023
This is book 4 in the Omega Christmas Elves series and can be enjoyed as a standalone. This is the story of Elijah an omega and Barnaby an alpha. Elijah is working as a Christmas Elf to save up enough money to start a new life away from his old-fashioned cult like environment. He comes across a bit standoffish but that is because he doesn't know how to socially interact and because he is hiding a secret. Barnaby is a vendor at the Barrington Christmas Market. He is drawn to Elijah. He wants to help him if he can. This is their story. I liked this book but I have to say that it isn't my favourite. I know that the author is dealing with a heavier subject but I found the writing to more abrupt and not as smooth as the other books in the series. I would have liked there to be more after the ending of HFN. It is still enjoyable to read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 5, 2024
'Elijah winced. “I can’t take advantage of you like that,” he said.
“You can and you absolutely will,” I told him in no uncertain terms. “You’re trying to do something big and scary, and you shouldn’t have to do that alone. I’m your friend. I’m here for you. I will always be here for you.”'
I loved this book. It's my favorite in the series so far. Good world building. I loved both Elijah and Barnaby and the connection between them. Their chemistry was sizzling. Elijah needed help and as much as Barnaby wanted to jump right in, he knew from past experience not to be too hasty and risk getting hurt again. Because of Elijah's upbringing and lies in a strict religious cult, he had a lot to learn and understand about the people outside of what he knew and there was a lingering danger from them that kept me hooked to the page. I couldn't wait to see how things would turn out. I was definitely the most emotionally invested in this story more than the earlier ones. 5 stars.
“You can and you absolutely will,” I told him in no uncertain terms. “You’re trying to do something big and scary, and you shouldn’t have to do that alone. I’m your friend. I’m here for you. I will always be here for you.”'
I loved this book. It's my favorite in the series so far. Good world building. I loved both Elijah and Barnaby and the connection between them. Their chemistry was sizzling. Elijah needed help and as much as Barnaby wanted to jump right in, he knew from past experience not to be too hasty and risk getting hurt again. Because of Elijah's upbringing and lies in a strict religious cult, he had a lot to learn and understand about the people outside of what he knew and there was a lingering danger from them that kept me hooked to the page. I couldn't wait to see how things would turn out. I was definitely the most emotionally invested in this story more than the earlier ones. 5 stars.
September 3, 2024
I didn't know if I was going to love Elijah's book or not... I guess the rating says it all.
At times in the last 3 books I was annoyed or unimpressed by Elijah's attitude. His book definitely explains a lot and puts him in a different light, in a much better light... also giving him development, growth and a new found family.
Barnaby (I'm not a fan of the name) was AMAZING. The perfect big, gentle, protective alpha... and his backstory is so sad in a different way than it usually goes for the sort of thing... it gave his relationship with Eli and how it develops a different tone.
And they are so sweet together! Even the Heat Lighting pill did a makes-sense-appearance... and the ending? Perfect. I just wish it had been a longer book, it could've done well with twice the length just to give their story a slower and sweeter but also hot pace.
I'm definitely gonna be re-reading this one and adding it to my Christmas list.
At times in the last 3 books I was annoyed or unimpressed by Elijah's attitude. His book definitely explains a lot and puts him in a different light, in a much better light... also giving him development, growth and a new found family.
Barnaby (I'm not a fan of the name) was AMAZING. The perfect big, gentle, protective alpha... and his backstory is so sad in a different way than it usually goes for the sort of thing... it gave his relationship with Eli and how it develops a different tone.
And they are so sweet together! Even the Heat Lighting pill did a makes-sense-appearance... and the ending? Perfect. I just wish it had been a longer book, it could've done well with twice the length just to give their story a slower and sweeter but also hot pace.
I'm definitely gonna be re-reading this one and adding it to my Christmas list.
December 18, 2023
Elijah is an omega from a closed community that doesn’t believe in Christmas and doesn’t normally let members leave for any reason. They think he’s volunteering when in reality he’s working at a Christmas market to save money to escape. In the market he meets Barnaby, an alpha craftsman, who has a booth at the market. Together they have an instant connection but Elijah still has to figure out how to escape his community to live the life he has always wanted.
Omegaverse stories aren’t normally my genre but this was a cute short story, the Christmas theme was more of just a setting than part of the story but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The spice was present but not super engaging. Overall a decent novella but not my favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Omegaverse stories aren’t normally my genre but this was a cute short story, the Christmas theme was more of just a setting than part of the story but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. The spice was present but not super engaging. Overall a decent novella but not my favorite.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 20, 2023
3.5 stars
A short story full of emotional moments, two sweet MC's, a bit of steam, mid angst, intense attraction, wonderful friends/found family, love, and a heartwarming HEA.
Elijah seems standoffish, but that is because he has a secret and needs to be cautious. He's from a cult-like community that has very outdated views, especially for an omega like hime, and he is going to try to leave and start a new life.
Barnaby is a very caring alpha who likes to help people, even though doing so once before led to a bunch of troubles for him.
These two are very much attracted to each other, but due to Elijah's family situation and Barnaby's past, it takes some time for them to become closer.
This book is good and has a sweet, happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A short story full of emotional moments, two sweet MC's, a bit of steam, mid angst, intense attraction, wonderful friends/found family, love, and a heartwarming HEA.
Elijah seems standoffish, but that is because he has a secret and needs to be cautious. He's from a cult-like community that has very outdated views, especially for an omega like hime, and he is going to try to leave and start a new life.
Barnaby is a very caring alpha who likes to help people, even though doing so once before led to a bunch of troubles for him.
These two are very much attracted to each other, but due to Elijah's family situation and Barnaby's past, it takes some time for them to become closer.
This book is good and has a sweet, happy ending.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2023
Elijah is working as an elf at the Barrington Christmas Market & hasn’t revealed anything about his family, if he did then things would go pear shaped. Barnaby Snow is a skilled furniture maker, he’s a bear of an alpha but very much a gentle giant. When there’s an accident Elijah rushes to Barnaby but then secrets are revealed & yes things do go pear shaped.
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own, a very touching story, which took me on a gamut of emotions & I couldn’t put it down – reading it in a sitting. My heart bled for Elijah & I’m so, so glad Barnaby & all his other friends were there for him. The ending was beautiful. My favourite of the series so far
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
The fourth book in the series but it’s easily read on its own, a very touching story, which took me on a gamut of emotions & I couldn’t put it down – reading it in a sitting. My heart bled for Elijah & I’m so, so glad Barnaby & all his other friends were there for him. The ending was beautiful. My favourite of the series so far
My review is for a special copy I voluntarily read
December 17, 2023
I thoroughly enjoyed this story about Elijah and Barnaby, how they were attracted to each other, but didn’t feel that they could be together. It wasn’t until Elijah had taken one of the heat pills that he relied on Barnaby to help him through his heat, and later to be supported by him when he was shunned from the community, where his family lived as a cult. I enjoyed how Elijah‘s friends really around him, to prove that he had more family than was in the community, but also his omega father and omega siblings were able to escape from the community as well. There is a happy ending for Elijah and Barnaby.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2023
Each of these books about the elves at the Barrington Christmas Market have adorable elves and vendors at the market that catch their eye, leading to a HEA for each couple, all tied to a Heat Lightning pill.
When omega Elijah takes the pill without realizing it, he immediately flees to Barnaby’s when he feels the heat start, knowing he’ll be safe and taken care of by the big Alpha. Realizing he has impulsively burned his bridges behind him, he now must figure out what to do with his life. Lucky for him Barnaby is there to protect and help him.
Cute short story with a bit of angst thrown in as well as the message that family can mean many things and embrace all kinds of people. Fun holiday read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
When omega Elijah takes the pill without realizing it, he immediately flees to Barnaby’s when he feels the heat start, knowing he’ll be safe and taken care of by the big Alpha. Realizing he has impulsively burned his bridges behind him, he now must figure out what to do with his life. Lucky for him Barnaby is there to protect and help him.
Cute short story with a bit of angst thrown in as well as the message that family can mean many things and embrace all kinds of people. Fun holiday read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 17, 2023
Really hot and sweet, like the rest of the series; a lovely Christmas treat.
I decided to get into this as a break from another series I'm reading that heavily features the whole mess of what I'll call "hate Christians" to be polite-ish. (I have lots worse things to call them privately.) So I had to laugh when I discovered that this book's plot centered on a "hate Christian" cult, in a story set in a universe that has its own ugly stratification going on. However, this author lightens the atmosphere enough to make it less stressful that it could have been, and it's a shortie, so the trip through cult-tastic omegaverse is brief, and the ending is absolutely beautiful.
I decided to get into this as a break from another series I'm reading that heavily features the whole mess of what I'll call "hate Christians" to be polite-ish. (I have lots worse things to call them privately.) So I had to laugh when I discovered that this book's plot centered on a "hate Christian" cult, in a story set in a universe that has its own ugly stratification going on. However, this author lightens the atmosphere enough to make it less stressful that it could have been, and it's a shortie, so the trip through cult-tastic omegaverse is brief, and the ending is absolutely beautiful.
December 23, 2023
What a lovely holiday story! Elijah is living a half-life with the restrictions imposed by his father and religious community. His only joy is working at the Barrington Christmas Market, where he has lots of friends and a not-so-secret crush on Barnaby, both of which are absolutely not okay with his father and community. This story is complete, with a great story line for a holiday romance, wonderful characters, and a satisfying ending. Can't wait to read other stories in this series during the holiday season!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 11, 2023
Well Worth Reading!
That was such a remarkable story and it simply flew off the pages.
Once again this troupe of Elves are proving to be some of the most caring and loving characters I have encountered in this type of tale.
The story itself touched my heart in a way I cannot describe and I'm so happy that there was a happy ever after ending for Elijah and Barnaby. They truly deserved one!
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book supplied by Booksprout and I'm happy to share my voluntary review of it.
That was such a remarkable story and it simply flew off the pages.
Once again this troupe of Elves are proving to be some of the most caring and loving characters I have encountered in this type of tale.
The story itself touched my heart in a way I cannot describe and I'm so happy that there was a happy ever after ending for Elijah and Barnaby. They truly deserved one!
I read an ARC (Advance Reader Copy) of this book supplied by Booksprout and I'm happy to share my voluntary review of it.
December 22, 2023
I liked the Christmas Market setting and especially Elijah’s friends that he made working there, they were sweet and very supportive. The relationship side of the story lack development and didn’t quite work for me. Elijah is still considering going through with his arraigned marriage right to the very end of the book. I liked the characters but the religious side for me was a bit too heavy handed and the ending felt a little unbelievable. Rounding up to 3 stars because I enjoyed the friendship part of the story.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
December 25, 2023
Satisfying! Elijah, hid his secret behind a stoic façade. None of his fellow elves knew anything about his private life. He belonged to a strict community that did not believe in anything he was doing. Barnaby, has a history of rescuing those in need. He did a good deed for a friend and ends up paying a steep price. Then Elijah falls prey to a good deed that misfires and is thrown into unexpectedly complex chaos. Good story. Nice flow, nicely done. Good friend and family support. I'd love to read a followup. Nicely done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 15, 2023
The dark/cheerful combo was a bit weird for me. It had holiday vibes and dark elements of cult culture that made it kinda heavy in comparison to the other books in the series.
I think that the subject of escaping from a cult is complex, so its integration in a relatively light book is problematic.
It was still cute and sweet so 3.5 stars from me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I think that the subject of escaping from a cult is complex, so its integration in a relatively light book is problematic.
It was still cute and sweet so 3.5 stars from me.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 23, 2023
Barnaby is just the alpha who lives next door to a cult and Elijah is the omega who is trying to get away from the restrictions that the cult puts on him.
I liked the way that MM Farmer didn’t make anything totally black or white in this novella. It wasn’t like cult-bad outside world-good. Even while writing a lighthearted story like this she brings in nuanced characters and ideas. Loved this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I liked the way that MM Farmer didn’t make anything totally black or white in this novella. It wasn’t like cult-bad outside world-good. Even while writing a lighthearted story like this she brings in nuanced characters and ideas. Loved this one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 24, 2023
"Call it alpha instinct, but I’d known from day one that Elijah needed help."
There was a lot more to Elijah than was apparent and I felt sorry for him being raised the way he was. The real surprise, though, was Barnaby Snow. I was so sure he was a strong, dominant alpha but it turned out he was a big ole cinnamon roll! He and Elijah were cute together but there chemistry was more subtle than Kevin and Rudy had in book three. Still, I'm sure they will be very happy together.
There was a lot more to Elijah than was apparent and I felt sorry for him being raised the way he was. The real surprise, though, was Barnaby Snow. I was so sure he was a strong, dominant alpha but it turned out he was a big ole cinnamon roll! He and Elijah were cute together but there chemistry was more subtle than Kevin and Rudy had in book three. Still, I'm sure they will be very happy together.
December 18, 2023
The cheeky ending had me in tears
Once again I am utterly charmed by Merry Farmer's writing, characterization and storytelling.
Just a year ago I discovered the first of the Brotherhood novels and got completely hooked. I loved Bangers & Mash, and look forward to the final book in this series, SWEET ELF.
Once again I am utterly charmed by Merry Farmer's writing, characterization and storytelling.
Just a year ago I discovered the first of the Brotherhood novels and got completely hooked. I loved Bangers & Mash, and look forward to the final book in this series, SWEET ELF.
December 21, 2023
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. I admire Elijah for wanting to escape his situation and was glad Barnaby was able to help him when needed. They were meant to be together and falling in love was not in doubt. The best is Elijah doesn't lose the most important members of his family and gets Barnaby too.
January 12, 2024
Elijah is an omega raised in an ultra-religious community and he wants out. Barnaby is an alpha who wants to help Elijah and show how much he cares. When Elijah gets shunned he doesn't know if he can go on with out his family. Elijah's friends and Barnaby show Elijah that family is more than blood. I really enjoyed this books.
December 13, 2023
I cried through the majority of this book. My heart absolutely broke for Elijah and Barnaby. Both of them had been through so much. But together they were able to find something special and mend Old Wounds.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 18, 2023
I enjoyed reading this story about Barnaby and Elijah's story. I wish it had been longer and featured more about Elijah's Papa and siblings but I did like seeing Elijah growing from a shy scared omega to more confident and accepting of his found family as well.
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