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Con Riley's Christmas Collection #3
His Until Christmas
Welcome back to London for another snow-dusted and super-emotional holiday romance from Con Riley's Christmas collection.
"What do you mean I'll be someone else's PA?" I slump, the bell on my Santa hat tinkling. "For how long?"
"Just until Christmas," Rex promises. "Don't worry, Jack. You'll like him."
Set in a shared world and gift-wrapped with sweet and steamy first times, His Until Christmas is a low-angst friends-to-lovers workplace romance set in London and Cornwall. Each book in this festive collection can stand alone, starting with the much-loved His Last Christmas in London.
"What do you mean I'll be someone else's PA?" I slump, the bell on my Santa hat tinkling. "For how long?"
"Just until Christmas," Rex promises. "Don't worry, Jack. You'll like him."
Set in a shared world and gift-wrapped with sweet and steamy first times, His Until Christmas is a low-angst friends-to-lovers workplace romance set in London and Cornwall. Each book in this festive collection can stand alone, starting with the much-loved His Last Christmas in London.
190 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 20, 2024
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 111 reviews
December 30, 2024
3.5 Stars
I’m not sure if it was my mood at the time, or the fact I was hectic busy over the course of the week I was reading this, but His Until Christmas didn’t quite grab me or move me the way the two previous stories in this series did.
MCs Jack and Reece were by all accounts absolutely lovely men and clearly perfect for one another, with immense chemistry, and palpable longing and mutual love pouring off the pages with every interaction they shared. Their love story was one I really liked reading.
I guess, my issues here stemmed more from a feeling that I was being dropped in a pre-established world I wasn’t aware of, and less to do with the loveable characters and adoring couple at hand.
Yes, I’ve read the two other stories in this Christmas Collection, and yes, I vaguely remember being introduced to Jack (and Reece, but only in his brotherly connection to an earlier MC) in a previous book, but it was very clear, immediately, that a lot has happened between then and now, that has been told elsewhere in other connected books, which I clearly hadn’t read.
This is on me of course, but this led to me spending a good portion of this story confused, frantically trying to piece things together, often pulling me out of the story at hand, to my detriment.
I had no clue who Jack’s boss Rex was in the grander scheme of things, even though he was briefly introduced in book two, it was clear he’s already had his own full book elsewhere (right?? I need someone to confirm, so I know what to read in order to catch up/fill in gaps).
But, mostly, I was super confused by the “foundation” they all worked for and what it even did, and how/why Reece was running off every weekend to do dangerous rescue missions? In the ocean? Saving… children? Who had been… trafficked?!?…
Seriously, I had no clue (and still have no clue) as to what was going on most of the time, or why, and it CLEARLY impacted my plot comprehension and ultimately my overall enjoyment. ☹️
What I do still know is that I like Con Riley’s unique voice and writing style. I haven’t read much/enough of her backlog (clearly), but she is certainly an author I feel I need to do a deep dive with, in order to truly gauge whether her works are for me (or not)… and, I guess, then I’d be less confused the way I was here, which is also a bonus.
******************************
Con Riley’s Christmas Collection
Book 1 - His Last Christmas in London (4 Stars)
Book 2 - We Only Kiss at Christmas (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - His Until Christmas (3.5 Stars)
Book 4 - A Loser by Christmas (pending release…)
I’m not sure if it was my mood at the time, or the fact I was hectic busy over the course of the week I was reading this, but His Until Christmas didn’t quite grab me or move me the way the two previous stories in this series did.
MCs Jack and Reece were by all accounts absolutely lovely men and clearly perfect for one another, with immense chemistry, and palpable longing and mutual love pouring off the pages with every interaction they shared. Their love story was one I really liked reading.
I guess, my issues here stemmed more from a feeling that I was being dropped in a pre-established world I wasn’t aware of, and less to do with the loveable characters and adoring couple at hand.
Yes, I’ve read the two other stories in this Christmas Collection, and yes, I vaguely remember being introduced to Jack (and Reece, but only in his brotherly connection to an earlier MC) in a previous book, but it was very clear, immediately, that a lot has happened between then and now, that has been told elsewhere in other connected books, which I clearly hadn’t read.
This is on me of course, but this led to me spending a good portion of this story confused, frantically trying to piece things together, often pulling me out of the story at hand, to my detriment.
I had no clue who Jack’s boss Rex was in the grander scheme of things, even though he was briefly introduced in book two, it was clear he’s already had his own full book elsewhere (right?? I need someone to confirm, so I know what to read in order to catch up/fill in gaps).
But, mostly, I was super confused by the “foundation” they all worked for and what it even did, and how/why Reece was running off every weekend to do dangerous rescue missions? In the ocean? Saving… children? Who had been… trafficked?!?…
Seriously, I had no clue (and still have no clue) as to what was going on most of the time, or why, and it CLEARLY impacted my plot comprehension and ultimately my overall enjoyment. ☹️
What I do still know is that I like Con Riley’s unique voice and writing style. I haven’t read much/enough of her backlog (clearly), but she is certainly an author I feel I need to do a deep dive with, in order to truly gauge whether her works are for me (or not)… and, I guess, then I’d be less confused the way I was here, which is also a bonus.
******************************
Con Riley’s Christmas Collection
Book 1 - His Last Christmas in London (4 Stars)
Book 2 - We Only Kiss at Christmas (4.5 Stars)
Book 3 - His Until Christmas (3.5 Stars)
Book 4 - A Loser by Christmas (pending release…)
November 20, 2024
This book would make the most wonderful festive romance film, it's full of truly swoony moments, laugh out loud events and everything that makes the heart sing.
Jack and Reece's relationship is one built on friendship, a three-year journey that has seen both of them grow closer across a distance, Reece mainly working for Safe Harbour in Cornwall, Jack up in London as Rex's PA.
And the pining, oh lordy the pining is excellent. Jack's been pretty much in love with Reece since the first time they met, but there's a very pretty videographer named Valentin who's also been hanging around the Cornish coast - and Reece - for a while now.
Jack's also got a rule about not mixing business with pleasure and that's giving him problems as Reece is about to take over Rex's role for the charity and it'll mean Jack will have to swap to being his PA as he doesn't want to leave London.
As always with Con's Christmas stories, there's a secondary plot line which takes a more serious note, this time it's Jack's grandmother, who's still mourning the death of his grandfather, a man who provided shelter and comfort for him when he was growing up.
Jack's planning a move to New York, not only to get away from having to see Reece in a relationship, but also so he can continue to send his grandma pictures of places which had meaning to her and his grandfather.
But plans, of course, never run smoothly and Rex basically cupid's his way to making Jack have to spend a week with Reece in the run up to Christmas and it's here that all the magic happens.
No spoilers, but let's just say that London plays her part as she has in each of the previous two festive novellas, intwining them in a myriad of locations that are a familiar sight on any tourist trip. But there's also deep meaning in their conversations, an understanding is reached, misconceptions cleared, and a beautiful romance sets its roots as deep as the rocks which pin Kara Enys in her place in the Atlantic Sea.
The Epilogue is from Reece's POV and gives a delightful peek into where their story is going a couple of years later and a sneaky glimpse at just who might be getting the next Christmas romance :)
Jack and Reece's relationship is one built on friendship, a three-year journey that has seen both of them grow closer across a distance, Reece mainly working for Safe Harbour in Cornwall, Jack up in London as Rex's PA.
And the pining, oh lordy the pining is excellent. Jack's been pretty much in love with Reece since the first time they met, but there's a very pretty videographer named Valentin who's also been hanging around the Cornish coast - and Reece - for a while now.
Jack's also got a rule about not mixing business with pleasure and that's giving him problems as Reece is about to take over Rex's role for the charity and it'll mean Jack will have to swap to being his PA as he doesn't want to leave London.
As always with Con's Christmas stories, there's a secondary plot line which takes a more serious note, this time it's Jack's grandmother, who's still mourning the death of his grandfather, a man who provided shelter and comfort for him when he was growing up.
Jack's planning a move to New York, not only to get away from having to see Reece in a relationship, but also so he can continue to send his grandma pictures of places which had meaning to her and his grandfather.
But plans, of course, never run smoothly and Rex basically cupid's his way to making Jack have to spend a week with Reece in the run up to Christmas and it's here that all the magic happens.
No spoilers, but let's just say that London plays her part as she has in each of the previous two festive novellas, intwining them in a myriad of locations that are a familiar sight on any tourist trip. But there's also deep meaning in their conversations, an understanding is reached, misconceptions cleared, and a beautiful romance sets its roots as deep as the rocks which pin Kara Enys in her place in the Atlantic Sea.
The Epilogue is from Reece's POV and gives a delightful peek into where their story is going a couple of years later and a sneaky glimpse at just who might be getting the next Christmas romance :)
November 21, 2024
This story was the sweetest and filled with so many swoony moments, I absolutely adored this story.
Jack and Reece's character was amazingly written and filled and they also had so much depth, I loved them alot. Jack had a crush on Reece since the moment they met and Reece also felt the same but there was some misunderstanding from Jack's side. But now Jack has to be Reece's PA for a week and damn that week was the bestest and loved how beautifully it was written. Jack and Reece had an amazing chemistry and their scenes were filled with so much emotions, I loved reading about it. Their HEA was so satisfying and I enjoyed it alot.
As someone who is looking forward to go to London, I loved how wonderfully the author has written about it and also we get to see some glimpses of Cornwall and other places which I really loved to read about.
This whole series has been amazing and loved reading every moment about it. Highly recommended.
Jack and Reece's character was amazingly written and filled and they also had so much depth, I loved them alot. Jack had a crush on Reece since the moment they met and Reece also felt the same but there was some misunderstanding from Jack's side. But now Jack has to be Reece's PA for a week and damn that week was the bestest and loved how beautifully it was written. Jack and Reece had an amazing chemistry and their scenes were filled with so much emotions, I loved reading about it. Their HEA was so satisfying and I enjoyed it alot.
As someone who is looking forward to go to London, I loved how wonderfully the author has written about it and also we get to see some glimpses of Cornwall and other places which I really loved to read about.
This whole series has been amazing and loved reading every moment about it. Highly recommended.
January 3, 2026
Ummm… this one was sweet when I wasn’t bored out of my mind and low key annoyed by how repetitive, everlasting and annoyingly forced the conflict felt.
The blurb says this can be read as a stand alone but I don’t know… I didn’t read the previous two books and distinctly felt as though I was dumped into the middle of a series and therefore, lacked context, clarity and insight.
I was prepared to grudgingly give His Until Christmas 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 right up until the epilogue but yikes! 🤦🏻♀️ the relief at finally getting to the end was quickly undone by the pointless, wordy, mind numbing epilogue.
Edited to add this note to self:
If you ever consider reading Con Riley again, read Pam’s review. This part resonates deeply but the two other books I’ve read by Riley I read so long ago that I don’t remember and I didn’t review, so I kept wondering if His Until Christmas was typical of Riley or not. Apparently, it is.
Getting to the point takes too fucking long. Every time. The first few chapters of their books are always, always jumbled in my head. I can't make heads or tails of the dialogue and the connections. Then miraculously it works out, but goddamn it fucks with my head.
Every. Time.
The blurb says this can be read as a stand alone but I don’t know… I didn’t read the previous two books and distinctly felt as though I was dumped into the middle of a series and therefore, lacked context, clarity and insight.
I was prepared to grudgingly give His Until Christmas 2.5 stars rounded up to 3 right up until the epilogue but yikes! 🤦🏻♀️ the relief at finally getting to the end was quickly undone by the pointless, wordy, mind numbing epilogue.
Edited to add this note to self:
If you ever consider reading Con Riley again, read Pam’s review. This part resonates deeply but the two other books I’ve read by Riley I read so long ago that I don’t remember and I didn’t review, so I kept wondering if His Until Christmas was typical of Riley or not. Apparently, it is.
Getting to the point takes too fucking long. Every time. The first few chapters of their books are always, always jumbled in my head. I can't make heads or tails of the dialogue and the connections. Then miraculously it works out, but goddamn it fucks with my head.
Every. Time.
Read
December 3, 2024DNF’d at 44%. While I like the overall vibe the pacing seems off. I don’t recall the previous stories but characters like Rex who are super rich and titled and also working in banking yet also participating in human trafficking rescue missions … are so unbelievable. Reece, the love interest in this one, is pretty similar and his brother (if I’m getting relationships correct) is an NHL player because of course.
November 14, 2024
Heartwarming and satisfying!
I’ve been waiting for Jack’s story since meeting him, and it didn’t disappoint! It was swooningly romantic and was an amazing way to kick off this holiday season!
I’ve been waiting for Jack’s story since meeting him, and it didn’t disappoint! It was swooningly romantic and was an amazing way to kick off this holiday season!
December 31, 2024
Sorki, ale nie...
Książki Con Riley są dla mnie albo świetne (choćby Be My Best Man czy His Last Christmas in London), albo słabe...
Ta jest słaba 🫤
Brak komunikacji pomiędzy głównymi bohaterami był tak bolesny, że aż wyczuwalny fizycznie...
Tak bardzo się zmęczyłam, czytając tę historię 😞
Powody, dla których przez 3 lata nasi panowie nie raczyli zrobić żadnego ruchu były trochę z dupy, szczerze mówiąc.
A jak już wyszło, że jednak obydwaj są po tej samej stronie (POV jest tylko Jacka, niestety), to Jack wymyślał tak durne powody, dla których nie mogą jednak być razem, że po prostu łapki mi opadły...
Naprawdę, czasami autorka tak gmatwa relacje między MCs, że tylko od tego można dostać bólu głowy - nie jest to zupełnie potrzebne, trudno się czyta, jest nudno i oczy chcą wypaść od przewracania 🫤
Totalny niewypał dla mnie 😞
Książki Con Riley są dla mnie albo świetne (choćby Be My Best Man czy His Last Christmas in London), albo słabe...
Ta jest słaba 🫤
Brak komunikacji pomiędzy głównymi bohaterami był tak bolesny, że aż wyczuwalny fizycznie...
Tak bardzo się zmęczyłam, czytając tę historię 😞
Powody, dla których przez 3 lata nasi panowie nie raczyli zrobić żadnego ruchu były trochę z dupy, szczerze mówiąc.
A jak już wyszło, że jednak obydwaj są po tej samej stronie (POV jest tylko Jacka, niestety), to Jack wymyślał tak durne powody, dla których nie mogą jednak być razem, że po prostu łapki mi opadły...
Naprawdę, czasami autorka tak gmatwa relacje między MCs, że tylko od tego można dostać bólu głowy - nie jest to zupełnie potrzebne, trudno się czyta, jest nudno i oczy chcą wypaść od przewracania 🫤
Totalny niewypał dla mnie 😞
December 9, 2024
3.5 stars
I stopped Riley's Second Chance School this year because I thought it focused to much on the trauma lessons for the kids (and all the various characters from Glynn Harbor) rather than the main couple. BUT I still enjoy her Christmas Collection, which is a bit adjacent to the Glynn Harbor universe, but so far hasn't let the other theme of grief and displaced kids taken over.
I didn't remember much of Jack and Reece from previous books, though. I did remember Rex, the Duke of Kara-Enys' grandson, and the Duke himself, Arthur.
I thought Jack and Reece's relationship was rather moving too fast - but at the same time, they HAD known each other for a number of years, and this year was the year when Jack decided he wanted to move on from having crush on Reece and thinking he didn't have a chance. So I guess things had to move fast from there.
I thought that the Duke was the MVP cameo though
I stopped Riley's Second Chance School this year because I thought it focused to much on the trauma lessons for the kids (and all the various characters from Glynn Harbor) rather than the main couple. BUT I still enjoy her Christmas Collection, which is a bit adjacent to the Glynn Harbor universe, but so far hasn't let the other theme of grief and displaced kids taken over.
I didn't remember much of Jack and Reece from previous books, though. I did remember Rex, the Duke of Kara-Enys' grandson, and the Duke himself, Arthur.
I thought Jack and Reece's relationship was rather moving too fast - but at the same time, they HAD known each other for a number of years, and this year was the year when Jack decided he wanted to move on from having crush on Reece and thinking he didn't have a chance. So I guess things had to move fast from there.
I thought that the Duke was the MVP cameo though
December 7, 2024
Rating: 4
Steam: 2
PoV: single, 1st person (except for the epilogue)
Genre: contemporary holiday romance, MM
Tropes / tags: pining, boss / employee, first time
Con Riley truly brought back her sweet London Christmas magic with His Until Christmas!
It was very easy to fall in love with Jack and Reese’s story – it was such a cosy holiday romance, full of sweet and swoony moments! Jack and Reese were so cute together and the slow burn together with the mutual pining had me rooting hard for these two. The story was mostly told from Jack's PoV, and his conflicted feelings were very well portrayed and written. The pining and longing he felt packed an emotional punch at times, and I just wanted to wrap him up in a blanket and comfort him.
Being forced to work together until Christmas proved to be the opportunity they needed to straighten out some misunderstandings and finally admit their feelings for each other. I adored seeing them taking pictures all over London, spinning in hallways and making out on fur covered furniture. There were so many romantic and sweet moments between Jack and Reese that made my heart feel all soft and happy.
The perfect holiday read if you're looking for a romantic and swoony story with lots of feels to it!
Steam: 2
PoV: single, 1st person (except for the epilogue)
Genre: contemporary holiday romance, MM
Tropes / tags: pining, boss / employee, first time
Con Riley truly brought back her sweet London Christmas magic with His Until Christmas!
It was very easy to fall in love with Jack and Reese’s story – it was such a cosy holiday romance, full of sweet and swoony moments! Jack and Reese were so cute together and the slow burn together with the mutual pining had me rooting hard for these two. The story was mostly told from Jack's PoV, and his conflicted feelings were very well portrayed and written. The pining and longing he felt packed an emotional punch at times, and I just wanted to wrap him up in a blanket and comfort him.
Being forced to work together until Christmas proved to be the opportunity they needed to straighten out some misunderstandings and finally admit their feelings for each other. I adored seeing them taking pictures all over London, spinning in hallways and making out on fur covered furniture. There were so many romantic and sweet moments between Jack and Reese that made my heart feel all soft and happy.
The perfect holiday read if you're looking for a romantic and swoony story with lots of feels to it!
November 13, 2024
Another delightful read from Con, that captures the true meaning of friendship, misunderstanding, and the blossoming of love. It's so obvious to everyone that Jack and Reece are in love, however, a series of misunderstandings is keeping them apart.
I love how seamlessly Con Riley writes, she blends humour, loads of emotion, and just a touch of nostalgia in this one. Jack and Reece are so relatable and endearing, as are all of her characters. We've all been there, unrequited love, the yearning and the longing 😍 As usual, the dialogue is spot on, the witty banter between all of the characters (Rex the kindest of reformed rakes), made me smile. I adore Rex, and his ploy to get Jack and Reece together was so obvious, but typical of him, and how he wants the best for his friends. Jack and Reece create a dynamic duo that is both entertaining and heartwarming. The epilogue was a delight to read, them finding each other and their niche in life. As usual, Con's vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, plonking readers bang into the MC's world.
If you're looking for a feel good romance that will leave you smiling, this is the perfect choice. It's a sappy (to use Con's own words), reminder that true friendship can blossom into something more, and can lead to lifelong love.
I love how seamlessly Con Riley writes, she blends humour, loads of emotion, and just a touch of nostalgia in this one. Jack and Reece are so relatable and endearing, as are all of her characters. We've all been there, unrequited love, the yearning and the longing 😍 As usual, the dialogue is spot on, the witty banter between all of the characters (Rex the kindest of reformed rakes), made me smile. I adore Rex, and his ploy to get Jack and Reece together was so obvious, but typical of him, and how he wants the best for his friends. Jack and Reece create a dynamic duo that is both entertaining and heartwarming. The epilogue was a delight to read, them finding each other and their niche in life. As usual, Con's vivid descriptions bring the setting to life, plonking readers bang into the MC's world.
If you're looking for a feel good romance that will leave you smiling, this is the perfect choice. It's a sappy (to use Con's own words), reminder that true friendship can blossom into something more, and can lead to lifelong love.
November 13, 2024
If anyone needs me, I’ll be in Cornwall for Christmas. I’m in love with this series, and even if this story largely takes place in London, there’s no shortage of Cornish Christmas magic splashed across the page. Con Riley weaves a swoony friends-to-lovers romance with just the right balance of tension, longing, and anticipation culminating in a sweet, satisfying happily ever after.
Jack’s story is everything I could have hoped for and no less than he deserves. I’ve absolutely adored him as Rex’s PA, and knowing his heartbreaking past underscores how far he’s come to be the competent, snarky assistant we love. This story is a chance to see his vulnerability and how his altruistic ways are really a cover for something fragile that cuts deep. Experiencing this story through his eyes is heartbreaking and emotional.
If you’ve read Con’s Learning to Love or Second Chance School series, you’re no stranger to the Trelawneys. (Don’t worry if you haven’t - this story stands well on its own.) We know Reece as Rex’s partner at the foundation, and it’s nice to see his sweeter, softer side here. I admire his dedication to his work and how conflicted he feels about his feelings for Jack and what that means for the future.
The easy, low angst way Jack and Reece come together is a balm for the soul. What could have been angsty and insufferable is instead warm and wondrous as their forced proximity brings them to a crossroads of attraction and emotion. It’s swoony holiday magic Con Riley style.
Something I really love about Con Riley is how she seamlessly connects characters and worlds while making you feel as if you’ve won the lottery. I can remember the moment I realized Seb & Pat’s roommate Jack was the very same Jack I already loved as Rex’s PA. It’s the most entertaining, gratifying feeling as she leads you on a merry adventure toward a destination you never saw coming.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
Jack’s story is everything I could have hoped for and no less than he deserves. I’ve absolutely adored him as Rex’s PA, and knowing his heartbreaking past underscores how far he’s come to be the competent, snarky assistant we love. This story is a chance to see his vulnerability and how his altruistic ways are really a cover for something fragile that cuts deep. Experiencing this story through his eyes is heartbreaking and emotional.
If you’ve read Con’s Learning to Love or Second Chance School series, you’re no stranger to the Trelawneys. (Don’t worry if you haven’t - this story stands well on its own.) We know Reece as Rex’s partner at the foundation, and it’s nice to see his sweeter, softer side here. I admire his dedication to his work and how conflicted he feels about his feelings for Jack and what that means for the future.
The easy, low angst way Jack and Reece come together is a balm for the soul. What could have been angsty and insufferable is instead warm and wondrous as their forced proximity brings them to a crossroads of attraction and emotion. It’s swoony holiday magic Con Riley style.
Something I really love about Con Riley is how she seamlessly connects characters and worlds while making you feel as if you’ve won the lottery. I can remember the moment I realized Seb & Pat’s roommate Jack was the very same Jack I already loved as Rex’s PA. It’s the most entertaining, gratifying feeling as she leads you on a merry adventure toward a destination you never saw coming.
*I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this book*
December 1, 2024
This last one especially was very sweet, swoony, sexy and genuinely sentimental. I paced myself while gobbling this one to savour it a bit more. Con Riley really handled a workplace romance that has age gap built into it with an absolutely delicate, sensitive hand which made me love it all the more. She was a new to me author when I started this series and I’m excited to read more from her backlist.
I was really looking forward to Jack’s story and he has really come into his own when this tale begins but he is still carrying a few left over demons from his past. His crush on Reece makes complete sense - Reece who is a strong sensitive righter of wrongs at his core, doesn’t want to push Jack into anything uncomfortable knowing what he has been through.
I loved how these two came together came apart came together again and felt their way gingerly but inevitably to an HEA. I especially again loved the caretaker and found family vibes in these books
I am going to miss this group and I hope there is another one next year, I’d love to read it
Expect:
* Workplace romance
* Age gap
* Found family
* Hurt comfort
* Matchmaking
* Holiday romance
* First Times
I was really looking forward to Jack’s story and he has really come into his own when this tale begins but he is still carrying a few left over demons from his past. His crush on Reece makes complete sense - Reece who is a strong sensitive righter of wrongs at his core, doesn’t want to push Jack into anything uncomfortable knowing what he has been through.
I loved how these two came together came apart came together again and felt their way gingerly but inevitably to an HEA. I especially again loved the caretaker and found family vibes in these books
I am going to miss this group and I hope there is another one next year, I’d love to read it
Expect:
* Workplace romance
* Age gap
* Found family
* Hurt comfort
* Matchmaking
* Holiday romance
* First Times
November 17, 2025
2.5 stars
This is not a book to be read as stand alone. The MCs fell in love in the previous book and here we just see the realisation that those feelings are mutual. Even so, the first 50% where we see only Jack's POV, is a beautiful and angsty story of unrequited love. However, as soon as they both decide to give in to their attraction, the story loses its purpose, its pace, its interest for me.
Having never read the previous book I couldn't understand how when or why those two fell in love. Reese in particular is one black box, I finished the book and still don't understand if he only realised he loved Jack at the beginning of this book or before, if he did date Valentin or not; That's not the feeling I want to have about my heroes.
3.5 for the first part, 1.5 for the second.
This is not a book to be read as stand alone. The MCs fell in love in the previous book and here we just see the realisation that those feelings are mutual. Even so, the first 50% where we see only Jack's POV, is a beautiful and angsty story of unrequited love. However, as soon as they both decide to give in to their attraction, the story loses its purpose, its pace, its interest for me.
Having never read the previous book I couldn't understand how when or why those two fell in love. Reese in particular is one black box, I finished the book and still don't understand if he only realised he loved Jack at the beginning of this book or before, if he did date Valentin or not; That's not the feeling I want to have about my heroes.
3.5 for the first part, 1.5 for the second.
December 11, 2024
Rushed exposition,
off-page romance, photographs,
virgins--sweet but blah.
2.5 rounded up because it is such a comfy series.
off-page romance, photographs,
virgins--sweet but blah.
2.5 rounded up because it is such a comfy series.
October 22, 2026
Cute, very low angst holiday story. I had low expectations so I think I was surprised by how much I liked it.
December 23, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
Une douce romance de Noël comme Con Riley sait si bien le faire !
C'est vraiment tout doux et charmant, mais j'avoue que le style très particulier de l'autrice m'a parfois un peu ... barbée, dans le sens où elle brode énormément pour raconter son histoire. Son narrateur s'égare beaucoup pour relater ses pensées ou actions, et si parfois c'est exactement ce que j'aime lire, là j'ai parfois été un peu confuse, à me demander où ça allait.
Néanmoins, cela reste un moment de lecture doudou, une histoire romantique et poétique qui fait du bien.
Une douce romance de Noël comme Con Riley sait si bien le faire !
C'est vraiment tout doux et charmant, mais j'avoue que le style très particulier de l'autrice m'a parfois un peu ... barbée, dans le sens où elle brode énormément pour raconter son histoire. Son narrateur s'égare beaucoup pour relater ses pensées ou actions, et si parfois c'est exactement ce que j'aime lire, là j'ai parfois été un peu confuse, à me demander où ça allait.
Néanmoins, cela reste un moment de lecture doudou, une histoire romantique et poétique qui fait du bien.
December 1, 2024
DNF @ 14%, Because, as usual with this author, I think there are too many words, not enough story.
Read
December 25, 2024DNF
It's me. I just couldn't get through all the over written brain speak. Jack speaks and decides everything in his mind and doesn't even let the other person talk.
It's me. I just couldn't get through all the over written brain speak. Jack speaks and decides everything in his mind and doesn't even let the other person talk.
December 31, 2024
probs shouldn’t have read this right after the previous installment bc i feel like i just read the same book twice🥴
November 1, 2026
The info for this book states that "each book in this festive collection can stand alone", I don't agree. I've read the previous two books in the series and I was lost for big parts of this one. After some research, I figured out that the book this one keeps referring to is Finding Mr. Fabulous. There could be other books as well, but I think it's mainly that one. I would suggest reading both the previous books in this series and Finding Mr. Fabulous before starting His Until Christmas. Finding Mr. Fabulous is connected to the Learning to Love series, so you might want to read that before Mr. Fabulous.
As for this book, I'm not sure if it was due to being confused or if it was how it was written, but I found the start of the book almost uncomfortable to read. And there were times in the first half of the book where Reece came across as slightly patronizing, that just added to the confusion since it was far off from the picture I got of him in We Only Kiss at Christmas. The pacing got frustrating early on. Every step forward in their relationship was followed by two steps back. It was to the point that when they finally had some sort of breakthrough I didn't trust it and I didn't dare to hope it would last; I mostly skimmed through that scene, expecting big steps backward to follow. For me, the best part of the book was when Jack finally talked to Arthur. In that chapter Jack has momentum and agency; and the support he gets from Arthur feels genuine and caring. I would have happily read more chapters like that one.
I feel like I would have appreciated this book more if I had read all the related books. At the same time, it's marketed as a standalone, so I will rate it as such. I don't think I'll read the next book in this series, at least not without reading the rest of the Learning to Love series and Finding Mr. Fabulous. So if it happens, it won't happen for a long while.
As for this book, I'm not sure if it was due to being confused or if it was how it was written, but I found the start of the book almost uncomfortable to read. And there were times in the first half of the book where Reece came across as slightly patronizing, that just added to the confusion since it was far off from the picture I got of him in We Only Kiss at Christmas. The pacing got frustrating early on. Every step forward in their relationship was followed by two steps back. It was to the point that when they finally had some sort of breakthrough I didn't trust it and I didn't dare to hope it would last; I mostly skimmed through that scene, expecting big steps backward to follow. For me, the best part of the book was when Jack finally talked to Arthur. In that chapter Jack has momentum and agency; and the support he gets from Arthur feels genuine and caring. I would have happily read more chapters like that one.
I feel like I would have appreciated this book more if I had read all the related books. At the same time, it's marketed as a standalone, so I will rate it as such. I don't think I'll read the next book in this series, at least not without reading the rest of the Learning to Love series and Finding Mr. Fabulous. So if it happens, it won't happen for a long while.
November 29, 2024
3.5⭐️
Jack and Reece have been friends for years, but they have been secretly pining for the other the whole time. Jack wants to give his notice so he doesn't have to work directly with Reece. However when their meddling boss/friend forces them to work closely together during the lead up to Christmas, they have to face their long hidden feelings.
This was all around a cute, heartwarming romance. Jack is a hopeless romantic who's waiting for Reece to make the move and be the leading hero Jack has always wanted. They both are holding back for different reasons, trying to be respectful of their boundaries. But honestly, I was all for it when they finally just said "fuck it" and started making out. Life seemed to always get in their way before, but what better time to finally confess all those feelings than Christmas? They're sweet together with a long friendship and many swoony dancing under the stars moments.
I read the first two in the series last holiday season so it did take me a second to remember everyone and the dynamics. If I read these all together and had them fresh in my head it would've been better. I like the story and characters, but I'm just not a fan of the writing style. I feel like the sentence structures are almost backwards? So it just didn't flow really well for me. But give me a short and sweet holiday romance and I'm happy, plus I love the London setting. I'm not sure if I'll read the next, but we will see how next holiday season goes!
Read if you like:
• holiday romance
• workplace romance
• friends to lovers
•••••••••••••••••••••
Jack and Reece have been friends for years, but they have been secretly pining for the other the whole time. Jack wants to give his notice so he doesn't have to work directly with Reece. However when their meddling boss/friend forces them to work closely together during the lead up to Christmas, they have to face their long hidden feelings.
This was all around a cute, heartwarming romance. Jack is a hopeless romantic who's waiting for Reece to make the move and be the leading hero Jack has always wanted. They both are holding back for different reasons, trying to be respectful of their boundaries. But honestly, I was all for it when they finally just said "fuck it" and started making out. Life seemed to always get in their way before, but what better time to finally confess all those feelings than Christmas? They're sweet together with a long friendship and many swoony dancing under the stars moments.
I read the first two in the series last holiday season so it did take me a second to remember everyone and the dynamics. If I read these all together and had them fresh in my head it would've been better. I like the story and characters, but I'm just not a fan of the writing style. I feel like the sentence structures are almost backwards? So it just didn't flow really well for me. But give me a short and sweet holiday romance and I'm happy, plus I love the London setting. I'm not sure if I'll read the next, but we will see how next holiday season goes!
Read if you like:
• holiday romance
• workplace romance
• friends to lovers
•••••••••••••••••••••
November 20, 2024
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
His Until Christmas is the third book in Con Riley’s excellent Christmas Collection series. Jack is roommates with Sebastian and Patrick from We Only Kiss at Christmas, and Reece is Patrick’s brother, but I think this one mostly stands alone from the series storywise, even with some connections across books. I actually think this book ties much more closely with Finding Mr Fabulous, which is Rex’s story, and both Rex and his grandfather are prominent side characters here. I think being familiar with Rex and the Safe Harbour project will provide some helpful background for this book. (Also, that story is so incredibly good, one of my favorites of many beloved Con Riley books, so I’d urge everyone to read it regardless.)
This story is everything I want a cozy holiday romance to be.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
His Until Christmas is the third book in Con Riley’s excellent Christmas Collection series. Jack is roommates with Sebastian and Patrick from We Only Kiss at Christmas, and Reece is Patrick’s brother, but I think this one mostly stands alone from the series storywise, even with some connections across books. I actually think this book ties much more closely with Finding Mr Fabulous, which is Rex’s story, and both Rex and his grandfather are prominent side characters here. I think being familiar with Rex and the Safe Harbour project will provide some helpful background for this book. (Also, that story is so incredibly good, one of my favorites of many beloved Con Riley books, so I’d urge everyone to read it regardless.)
This story is everything I want a cozy holiday romance to be.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 19, 2024
I've read this author before. This is a MM contemporary story set at Christmas time in London and Cornwell. the main characters are Jack a PA for the foundation Safe Harbour and Reece who also works for the foundation but is changing jobs to be Jack's boss. The story is told from Jack's POV. lots of crossovers the other books Con Riley has written. Such a beautiful story with Jack and Reece ending in a HEA after a rough start to their relationship.
January 2, 2025
I so enjoyed reading Jack and Reece's story, and learning more about the Safe Harbour Foundation. I also loved how easily Jack comes up with ideas to keep the donations flowing.
I adored their romance. So much pining from both of them, even if we only got to see Jack's POV until the epilogue.
Fabulous addition to this series.
I adored their romance. So much pining from both of them, even if we only got to see Jack's POV until the epilogue.
Fabulous addition to this series.
Read
December 9, 2024*DNF*
(40%)
(40%)
November 13, 2025
Terrific cover art. The story - not so much. Disappointing in every way.
November 14, 2025
3.5 stars
I love this series and Con Riley's writing style: the physical scenes are always very emotional and the romance between the two MCs is wonderful.
What didn't really work for me was that I often had the impression of being in the middle of a story already told somewhere else. Rex and Jack's friendship and work relationship, Jack and Reece's texts, Valentin and the video posted online, these are a few example of what I was struggling with.
I'm still gong to read the next book, because I'm very curious about the last of the Trelawneys.
I love this series and Con Riley's writing style: the physical scenes are always very emotional and the romance between the two MCs is wonderful.
What didn't really work for me was that I often had the impression of being in the middle of a story already told somewhere else. Rex and Jack's friendship and work relationship, Jack and Reece's texts, Valentin and the video posted online, these are a few example of what I was struggling with.
I'm still gong to read the next book, because I'm very curious about the last of the Trelawneys.
December 17, 2024
4 solid, gorgeous stars. Which is not surprising with this author.
Before I go anywhere else, let's start with Jack (who is on the cover, and BTW, that cover is just . . . everything. Great, great choice.)
Jack's type of character is my MM romance Kryptonite. He's small (5'6"), slender (read: not muscly), pretty, has a healthy dose of femme, and does not hide in any way, shape or form. He's not quite a diva, but he is quite fabulous. He is also the sort who may look like fluff on the outside, but has a spine of steel and (wait for it) is surprisingly (perhaps) the more dominant one in the bedroom - this despite coming to this relationship as a virgin to anything involving a partner that occurs below the waist 😁 He is exactly the kind of character that just makes me melt; in this way he's very similar to the character of Charles in this author's "Learning to Love" series (which is concurrent with this series and has a bit of character overlap via Rex), which for me is high praise indeed. Charles is just a tad bit more fabulous and flamboyant, but Jack comes pretty close in affect.
Jack is also very OCD, at least when it comes to organization and office tasks. He is a serial Post It hoarder and has to sort everything by color. He's also a total fussbudget over every possible thing his boss (Rex) could ever need, including wielding a mean lint roller in a pinch. He is superb at his job, and Rex adores him both as a p.a. and as a friend. You certainly come away from this story knowing that Jack consistently operates at a level waaaay above his pay grade.
Rex is running a charitable foundation that works with folks literally washed up on the rocks in Cornwall when they make illegal attempts to gain entry to the country - which often involves whole families, small children and all. Rex has a partner in this charity, Reece Trelawney. Reece is Jack's unrequited love interest and is a perfect fit - he's big, muscular, gentle, golden in color (hair at least) and just a lovely human being. He works in the area of the actual physical rescues and is also a psychologist who works closely with the kids involved in these "accidents", helping them work through their physical trauma, as well as the feeling of being "outsiders". His love for his work is palpable. He is also a brother to one of Jack's roommates (and there is yet a third brother, who plays hockey).
I did not read the previous book, but I think there's some backstory in it about Jack and Reece (it centers on the romance between Jack's two roommates, and they go on to play a significant secondary role in this book.) This wasn't an issue for me, because this author takes pains to keep readers completely immersed in what they need to know to understand the nuances of the prior relationship and how it impacts what occurs in this book.
If you dissect it, the plot is Romance 101. Jack works/lives in London and Reece works/lives in Cornwall. They have known each other for a number of years, but do not physically interact much, if at all, in their work. This is changing because Rex needs to fundraise constantly and he can no longer handle that and all the other work he does for his charity, so he is moving that piece to Reece (who is SO not the type for this kind of work) and has brought Reece to London to train directly with Jack for a week - up close, personal, one office, 8 hour days, you know the drill. Jack's' reaction to this is to flee - literally, like to another job, another boss, another type of work, even another country. The reason he is attempting to do this is due to laundry list of typical Romance 101 situations, starting with a muffed and embarrassing attempt at an office party some time ago where Jack takes the initiative to try to kiss Reece (under some mistletoe no less!) and it leads directly to "oops, sorry, no, we work together and it's best if we're just friends, don't you think, because I do care about you so much, but . . ." territory. Jack is devastated and carries his torch back to London, where he gamely engages in "friendly" interactions with Reece, such as a daily word association game (one word is provided via text to a person, who then has to respond immediately with the first thing that comes to mind). A game that is played daily, every morning like clockwork, and carries an enormous amount of unspoken weight between the two participants. This awkward state of 'Friendship That is So Much More and Why the Hell Don't These Two Stop with All Their Dithering and TALK to each other' (urggh) leads to typical misunderstandings - Jack is convinced Reece is involved with someone, which, of course, he is NOT and which Jack would know if only they would TALK to each other.
Once Reece is in London, the dance of 'How I Really Feel About You But Am Terrified To Tell You or Act On' begins in earnest and it the steps are complex and the involvement intense. This is where I point out that despite the fact that this is an oft-told storyline, this particular telling is different in the way it is crafted and written and it feels brand-new. This author is genius at taking fairly mundane lives (read: no subgenre like mystery, fantasy, etc) and creating a tiny universe that spans the pages between the covers; a universe that has myriad facets, a full cast of secondary characters who are essential pieces in the whole story, and layers of unspoken nuance behind almost every verbal interaction in the book, even those involving secondary characters. I find myself reading this author's books slowly and more carefully than the average book because I want to be sure I delve in deep enough that I don't miss anything. There are bits that just sound so amazingly superficial (or not terribly important) that you KNOW are conveying multiple meanings that are vastly important to the story, for example the numerous references between Reece and Jack of "No repeats, right?" On the surface, this pertains to the daily word game . . . under the surface, it refers to trying to figure out the rules of what they know is a mating dance full of fear, trepidation, and hope that this time will be different. It's hard to explain, but here's a glimpse, from Jack's perspective:
He’s there to catch me, although him pulling me upright and then holding me close isn’t how this evening was meant to play out. His arms around me feel right—safe, instead of constraining—and I’m flooded with more than an urge to spin again to keep him as happy as he looks now. I even go up on tiptoe, my arms around his neck before he murmurs a reminder. “We said no repeats, Jack.” I nod. We did.
Note: Jack loves to twirl - literally and figuratively, which you find out very early on in the book. He's often spinning in some way about something (and doing it fabulously - of course! 😁.) Jack finishes his thoughts about this particular encounter with:
Right now, both of us are too busy waltzing, and if we kiss again as we do it? Only the stars and moon can see us.
I mean, how swoony can you get??? Sigh
The book is just full of lovely, evocative lines; I will give another example (Jack's perspective):
I’ve woken hungry for someone who made me feel like Christmas came early and then let me choose my own present. I’m not talking about us getting naked. He made himself bare first, didn’t he, in a store full of toys and baubles.
Which, again, refers to all the nuances that went on during the conversation Jack is referencing. Let me just capsulize it by saying that these two are in an adult relationship that is 100% deeper than your average romance novel and I wanted to devour it - but I made myself slow down and soak it in.
I also have to say that even when the MC's are not engaging in anything romantic, the author is still able to create scenes (in my head, anyway) that are downright lovely. There's a scene where Jack is asked to stay with the children in their therapy group while Rex takes care of an emergency. Jack is awkward and hesitant around the kids, but Reece pops in and rescues him by telling the kids this:
“Jack makes Lord Heligan happy.”
I must let out a surprised sound. Reece flashes a smile my way. “You do. I’ve heard it, just like this.” He hams up what sounds suspiciously close to Rex’s laughter whenever I call him an email-avoidant dipshit. He’s got that Heligan hur hur hur down pat, and I can’t help grinning when the interpreter repeats it. So do some of the kids, and like dominos toppling, it sets off a hur hur hur chain reaction.
I mean, who else would include "a hur hur hur chain reaction" in a romance? I found it both hilarious and touching (and I could totally see and hear it in my mind.)
To summarize, this is a gorgeously written book, full of high emotions, missteps, doubt and ultimately, connection (at last!), understanding, and realizing one's greatest desires really are right there for the taking. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
p.s. if this is your first foray into Con Riley's writing, when you are done, run, don't walk, to try the "Learning to Love" series, starting with Charles. If you liked/loved this book, you will adore it.
Before I go anywhere else, let's start with Jack (who is on the cover, and BTW, that cover is just . . . everything. Great, great choice.)
Jack's type of character is my MM romance Kryptonite. He's small (5'6"), slender (read: not muscly), pretty, has a healthy dose of femme, and does not hide in any way, shape or form. He's not quite a diva, but he is quite fabulous. He is also the sort who may look like fluff on the outside, but has a spine of steel and (wait for it) is surprisingly (perhaps) the more dominant one in the bedroom - this despite coming to this relationship as a virgin to anything involving a partner that occurs below the waist 😁 He is exactly the kind of character that just makes me melt; in this way he's very similar to the character of Charles in this author's "Learning to Love" series (which is concurrent with this series and has a bit of character overlap via Rex), which for me is high praise indeed. Charles is just a tad bit more fabulous and flamboyant, but Jack comes pretty close in affect.
Jack is also very OCD, at least when it comes to organization and office tasks. He is a serial Post It hoarder and has to sort everything by color. He's also a total fussbudget over every possible thing his boss (Rex) could ever need, including wielding a mean lint roller in a pinch. He is superb at his job, and Rex adores him both as a p.a. and as a friend. You certainly come away from this story knowing that Jack consistently operates at a level waaaay above his pay grade.
Rex is running a charitable foundation that works with folks literally washed up on the rocks in Cornwall when they make illegal attempts to gain entry to the country - which often involves whole families, small children and all. Rex has a partner in this charity, Reece Trelawney. Reece is Jack's unrequited love interest and is a perfect fit - he's big, muscular, gentle, golden in color (hair at least) and just a lovely human being. He works in the area of the actual physical rescues and is also a psychologist who works closely with the kids involved in these "accidents", helping them work through their physical trauma, as well as the feeling of being "outsiders". His love for his work is palpable. He is also a brother to one of Jack's roommates (and there is yet a third brother, who plays hockey).
I did not read the previous book, but I think there's some backstory in it about Jack and Reece (it centers on the romance between Jack's two roommates, and they go on to play a significant secondary role in this book.) This wasn't an issue for me, because this author takes pains to keep readers completely immersed in what they need to know to understand the nuances of the prior relationship and how it impacts what occurs in this book.
If you dissect it, the plot is Romance 101. Jack works/lives in London and Reece works/lives in Cornwall. They have known each other for a number of years, but do not physically interact much, if at all, in their work. This is changing because Rex needs to fundraise constantly and he can no longer handle that and all the other work he does for his charity, so he is moving that piece to Reece (who is SO not the type for this kind of work) and has brought Reece to London to train directly with Jack for a week - up close, personal, one office, 8 hour days, you know the drill. Jack's' reaction to this is to flee - literally, like to another job, another boss, another type of work, even another country. The reason he is attempting to do this is due to laundry list of typical Romance 101 situations, starting with a muffed and embarrassing attempt at an office party some time ago where Jack takes the initiative to try to kiss Reece (under some mistletoe no less!) and it leads directly to "oops, sorry, no, we work together and it's best if we're just friends, don't you think, because I do care about you so much, but . . ." territory. Jack is devastated and carries his torch back to London, where he gamely engages in "friendly" interactions with Reece, such as a daily word association game (one word is provided via text to a person, who then has to respond immediately with the first thing that comes to mind). A game that is played daily, every morning like clockwork, and carries an enormous amount of unspoken weight between the two participants. This awkward state of 'Friendship That is So Much More and Why the Hell Don't These Two Stop with All Their Dithering and TALK to each other' (urggh) leads to typical misunderstandings - Jack is convinced Reece is involved with someone, which, of course, he is NOT and which Jack would know if only they would TALK to each other.
Once Reece is in London, the dance of 'How I Really Feel About You But Am Terrified To Tell You or Act On' begins in earnest and it the steps are complex and the involvement intense. This is where I point out that despite the fact that this is an oft-told storyline, this particular telling is different in the way it is crafted and written and it feels brand-new. This author is genius at taking fairly mundane lives (read: no subgenre like mystery, fantasy, etc) and creating a tiny universe that spans the pages between the covers; a universe that has myriad facets, a full cast of secondary characters who are essential pieces in the whole story, and layers of unspoken nuance behind almost every verbal interaction in the book, even those involving secondary characters. I find myself reading this author's books slowly and more carefully than the average book because I want to be sure I delve in deep enough that I don't miss anything. There are bits that just sound so amazingly superficial (or not terribly important) that you KNOW are conveying multiple meanings that are vastly important to the story, for example the numerous references between Reece and Jack of "No repeats, right?" On the surface, this pertains to the daily word game . . . under the surface, it refers to trying to figure out the rules of what they know is a mating dance full of fear, trepidation, and hope that this time will be different. It's hard to explain, but here's a glimpse, from Jack's perspective:
He’s there to catch me, although him pulling me upright and then holding me close isn’t how this evening was meant to play out. His arms around me feel right—safe, instead of constraining—and I’m flooded with more than an urge to spin again to keep him as happy as he looks now. I even go up on tiptoe, my arms around his neck before he murmurs a reminder. “We said no repeats, Jack.” I nod. We did.
Note: Jack loves to twirl - literally and figuratively, which you find out very early on in the book. He's often spinning in some way about something (and doing it fabulously - of course! 😁.) Jack finishes his thoughts about this particular encounter with:
Right now, both of us are too busy waltzing, and if we kiss again as we do it? Only the stars and moon can see us.
I mean, how swoony can you get??? Sigh
The book is just full of lovely, evocative lines; I will give another example (Jack's perspective):
I’ve woken hungry for someone who made me feel like Christmas came early and then let me choose my own present. I’m not talking about us getting naked. He made himself bare first, didn’t he, in a store full of toys and baubles.
Which, again, refers to all the nuances that went on during the conversation Jack is referencing. Let me just capsulize it by saying that these two are in an adult relationship that is 100% deeper than your average romance novel and I wanted to devour it - but I made myself slow down and soak it in.
I also have to say that even when the MC's are not engaging in anything romantic, the author is still able to create scenes (in my head, anyway) that are downright lovely. There's a scene where Jack is asked to stay with the children in their therapy group while Rex takes care of an emergency. Jack is awkward and hesitant around the kids, but Reece pops in and rescues him by telling the kids this:
“Jack makes Lord Heligan happy.”
I must let out a surprised sound. Reece flashes a smile my way. “You do. I’ve heard it, just like this.” He hams up what sounds suspiciously close to Rex’s laughter whenever I call him an email-avoidant dipshit. He’s got that Heligan hur hur hur down pat, and I can’t help grinning when the interpreter repeats it. So do some of the kids, and like dominos toppling, it sets off a hur hur hur chain reaction.
I mean, who else would include "a hur hur hur chain reaction" in a romance? I found it both hilarious and touching (and I could totally see and hear it in my mind.)
To summarize, this is a gorgeously written book, full of high emotions, missteps, doubt and ultimately, connection (at last!), understanding, and realizing one's greatest desires really are right there for the taking. I cannot recommend it highly enough.
p.s. if this is your first foray into Con Riley's writing, when you are done, run, don't walk, to try the "Learning to Love" series, starting with Charles. If you liked/loved this book, you will adore it.
November 20, 2024
4.5 stars - I love returning to Con Riley’s atmospheric, Christmas-y versions of London and Kara-Enys for the holidays each year! Jack and Reece’s story was everything I’ve come to expect from these stories and more.
Jack is a PA-extraordinaire but finds himself in a predicament with his employment, namely that he can’t work for someone he has feelings for, something that’s planned to happen after the holidays, meaning Jack gave his notice to avoid being caught in a bad situation again. Rex, being the hilarious and adorable menace that he is, engineers things to bring Jack and the subject of his feelings, Reece, together for the holidays to show them how good they could be together and to keep Jack around.
Reece and Jack’s relationship has a foundation of friendship, but they’ve both wanted more for about as long as they’ve known each other. Being forced to work together leading up to Christmas gives them an opportunity to see how great they can be together and forces them to confront their feelings head on all while encouraging each other to grow, take responsibility for the changes they need to make and to love each other regardless of their employment situation.
I love all the ties back to Con Riley’s other stories and how each of these Christmas stories continues to grow her book universe a little more by connecting different characters. It’s always a treat to read these books and Jack and Reece’s story was no different. I already can’t wait for next year’s story!
Jack is a PA-extraordinaire but finds himself in a predicament with his employment, namely that he can’t work for someone he has feelings for, something that’s planned to happen after the holidays, meaning Jack gave his notice to avoid being caught in a bad situation again. Rex, being the hilarious and adorable menace that he is, engineers things to bring Jack and the subject of his feelings, Reece, together for the holidays to show them how good they could be together and to keep Jack around.
Reece and Jack’s relationship has a foundation of friendship, but they’ve both wanted more for about as long as they’ve known each other. Being forced to work together leading up to Christmas gives them an opportunity to see how great they can be together and forces them to confront their feelings head on all while encouraging each other to grow, take responsibility for the changes they need to make and to love each other regardless of their employment situation.
I love all the ties back to Con Riley’s other stories and how each of these Christmas stories continues to grow her book universe a little more by connecting different characters. It’s always a treat to read these books and Jack and Reece’s story was no different. I already can’t wait for next year’s story!
December 17, 2024
God why do I like this author so much??? Ugh! Getting to the point takes too fucking long. Every time. The first few chapters of their books are always, always jumbled in my head. I can't make heads or tails of the dialogue and the connections. Then miraculously it works out, but goddamn it fucks with my head.
Every. Time.
But this time, I think Jack is dumb and Reese uses too much therapy speak.
So there.
Every. Time.
But this time, I think Jack is dumb and Reese uses too much therapy speak.
So there.
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