What do you think?
Rate this book
Monster Haven #2.5
Hidden Holidays
The holidays can be overwhelming for anyone, but Zoey is ready to explode when Maurice, her closet-monster roommate, takes celebrations to the extreme. When Zoey ducks out for a little fresh air, she finds a boy with a big problem -- a problem only a mythical creature can have and only Zoey can solve.
6,500 words
Hidden Holidays is a short story in the same world as the Monster Haven novels from Carina Press. This story can be enjoyed without having read the novels, but it takes place between book two, Pooka in My Pantry, and book three, Fairies in My Fireplace.
6,500 words
Hidden Holidays is a short story in the same world as the Monster Haven novels from Carina Press. This story can be enjoyed without having read the novels, but it takes place between book two, Pooka in My Pantry, and book three, Fairies in My Fireplace.
21 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 29, 2013
21 people are currently reading
185 people want to read
About the author
R.L. Naquin
32 books278 followersRachel is the author of the urban fantasy Monster Haven series from Carina Press. She believes in magic, the power of love, good cheese, lucky socks, and putting things off until stress gets them done faster at the last minute. Her home is Disneyland, despite her current location in Kansas.
https://www.facebook.com/rlnaquin
Be among the special peeps who get all the R.L. Naquin updates first by signing up for the official newsletter here: http://rlnaquin.us6.list-manage.com/s...
https://www.facebook.com/rlnaquin
Be among the special peeps who get all the R.L. Naquin updates first by signing up for the official newsletter here: http://rlnaquin.us6.list-manage.com/s...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews
July 12, 2016
I love this series and how much fun it is!
March 1, 2016
Zoey arrives home to find out that her home has exploded into holiday overload as Maurice decorates the house with everything he can borrow and get his hands on. Overwhelmed by the decorations that are happening inside the house she heads off for a walk coming upon a boy naked along the beach. She learns that the boy has lost his pelt because he’s from the sea. With some help they may just get it back so that they can join the festivities that are happening back at home.
I still adore Zoey she’s one of my favorite urban fantasy characters she’s unique a protector for the monsters. I have to admit if I would be the same way she is walking into an overwhelming house full of decorations. I love Maurice but he’s not really in this one it’s more about Zoey which is ok since she’s the main character. We also have a little bit more of Iris as well as an encounter with some new friends.
I’ve had this one on my kindle and hate to admit that I haven’t read the novella’s before for the Monster Haven series but I’m current on all the books. I quickly read Hidden Holidays which is a cute holiday story that touches the heart and made me smile. I love the unique world that Zoey lives in balancing her everyday life as well as protector it just works. She’s not your typical heroine but it works so well with her and she’s grown so much over the last few books. Can’t wait to read the next book waiting is the worst. Highly recommend if you’re a fan of Urban fantasy they are well written and worth reading.
I still adore Zoey she’s one of my favorite urban fantasy characters she’s unique a protector for the monsters. I have to admit if I would be the same way she is walking into an overwhelming house full of decorations. I love Maurice but he’s not really in this one it’s more about Zoey which is ok since she’s the main character. We also have a little bit more of Iris as well as an encounter with some new friends.
I’ve had this one on my kindle and hate to admit that I haven’t read the novella’s before for the Monster Haven series but I’m current on all the books. I quickly read Hidden Holidays which is a cute holiday story that touches the heart and made me smile. I love the unique world that Zoey lives in balancing her everyday life as well as protector it just works. She’s not your typical heroine but it works so well with her and she’s grown so much over the last few books. Can’t wait to read the next book waiting is the worst. Highly recommend if you’re a fan of Urban fantasy they are well written and worth reading.
December 10, 2015
The idea is great. The story itself is okay. I have feeling, however, if that I read a whole book with the main character I would want her to get killed - she is a one hell of a princess perfect. Still, not bad.
November 3, 2015
Zoey has never really been one for celebrating Christmas, instead going every year to a ski resort with Sara. But this year Maurice is full of festive cheer, stealing a ton of decorations from other people's closets and giving Zoey a massive headache with his cheer and the flashing lights. Plus Iris is ripping up a tree the size of her house to bring inside...
Zoey needs a break and goes to the beach to get her head together where she meets a distressed selkie whose pelt has been stolen. She is determined to find the thief and reunite the selkie with his family.
This was a pretty short story, only about 23 pages but it was still enjoyable. I can understand Zoey feeling a bit overwhelmed by the things Maurice is doing, and her conflicted feelings about Christmas which began when her mother vanished. I can really relate to that. Maurice is of course, the kind og guy you want to share a house with and his enthusiasm would sweep anyone along.
A nice short addition for fans of the series.
Zoey needs a break and goes to the beach to get her head together where she meets a distressed selkie whose pelt has been stolen. She is determined to find the thief and reunite the selkie with his family.
This was a pretty short story, only about 23 pages but it was still enjoyable. I can understand Zoey feeling a bit overwhelmed by the things Maurice is doing, and her conflicted feelings about Christmas which began when her mother vanished. I can really relate to that. Maurice is of course, the kind og guy you want to share a house with and his enthusiasm would sweep anyone along.
A nice short addition for fans of the series.
July 30, 2018
This adorable short story gives us another glimpse into the wacky world of Zoey. The story begins during the Christmas holiday, which is obviously celebrated very differently by each of the Hidden. On top of the normal holiday worries and stress, Zoey finds herself coming face-to-face with a real life Selkie.
Things end up getting resolved pretty quickly, thanks to Zoey’s vast network of supernatural friends. It was adorable, satisfying, and put me in a very festive mood overall. I like these little bite-sized stories to link the larger books together.
Things end up getting resolved pretty quickly, thanks to Zoey’s vast network of supernatural friends. It was adorable, satisfying, and put me in a very festive mood overall. I like these little bite-sized stories to link the larger books together.
July 15, 2018
The real meaning of Christmas
A little coffee break read about the real meaning of Christmas. The fact that it can draw people together and that giving (time, attention or love) is what is really important. A feel good read with a sort of storyline going through it.
A little coffee break read about the real meaning of Christmas. The fact that it can draw people together and that giving (time, attention or love) is what is really important. A feel good read with a sort of storyline going through it.
August 18, 2018
While short it had a nice story and I'd love to have my own Maurice to help out with Christmas decorating bling.
July 8, 2020
A feel good story
A sweet lighthearted story about the joy of Christmas. Different traditions blended into one happy home. A joy to Read.
A sweet lighthearted story about the joy of Christmas. Different traditions blended into one happy home. A joy to Read.
June 30, 2024
Cozy Christmas
This little gem brought such a smile to my face. I can’t wait to read more by this author. Cozy and monsters what more could you ask for?
This little gem brought such a smile to my face. I can’t wait to read more by this author. Cozy and monsters what more could you ask for?
December 9, 2014
Hidden Holidays is one of several short stories that R.L. Naquin has published as companion stories to her Monster Haven series. These stories can pretty much be read at any point and you don't have to have read the full length books to enjoy them but I do think you'll appreciate them more if you're already familiar with the characters.
I don't really want to give too much away because this story is only 20 pages long but it's a really fun holiday read that gives us a bit of an insight into various Hidden holiday traditions. Closet monster Maurice is one of my favourite characters in the series and I'm sure anyone who knows him can imagine just how crazy he is about the festive period. Zoey isn't quite so keen on having her whole house overrun with decorations, she never really celebrated the holidays growing up and it seems strange to her to start now but she would never deliberately hurt Maurice's feelings.
This was a short and sweet story that made me smile and included most of my favourite characters from the series. I do prefer the full length novels but these are nice quick reads for when you don't have much time.
I don't really want to give too much away because this story is only 20 pages long but it's a really fun holiday read that gives us a bit of an insight into various Hidden holiday traditions. Closet monster Maurice is one of my favourite characters in the series and I'm sure anyone who knows him can imagine just how crazy he is about the festive period. Zoey isn't quite so keen on having her whole house overrun with decorations, she never really celebrated the holidays growing up and it seems strange to her to start now but she would never deliberately hurt Maurice's feelings.
This was a short and sweet story that made me smile and included most of my favourite characters from the series. I do prefer the full length novels but these are nice quick reads for when you don't have much time.
February 2, 2014
I LOVE R.L Naquin. Even if she broke my heart earlier this year with Fairies in My Fireplace. *grumbles*(Loved that book, btw.)
Hidden Holidays is a wonderful tale, filled with the magic of Christmas, the hope that comes with the holidays and full of laughter.
I loved going back in time to see Zoey’s first Christmas with all her monster family (some, the last), it warmed my heart and soul, not to mention it was wonderful to see them all again; Zoey, Maurice, Molly & her kids, a thief (hehehe), and of course Iris.
If you’re a fan of Rachel’s Monster Haven, then Hidden Holidays is a must read for you. Hope you enjoy, I know I did!
Hidden Holidays is a wonderful tale, filled with the magic of Christmas, the hope that comes with the holidays and full of laughter.
I loved going back in time to see Zoey’s first Christmas with all her monster family (some, the last), it warmed my heart and soul, not to mention it was wonderful to see them all again; Zoey, Maurice, Molly & her kids, a thief (hehehe), and of course Iris.
If you’re a fan of Rachel’s Monster Haven, then Hidden Holidays is a must read for you. Hope you enjoy, I know I did!
August 30, 2016
This was a really short, really sweet look at Zoey’s feelings on Christmas. Her childhood lacked a lot of happiness and Christmas was one of the things that was pushed aside. It was great to see Maurice and the Brownies open Zoey up to the holidays and to show her what the Hidden celebrate and how they do it. We even get to meet some adorable Selkies in this one. I am so enjoying Zoey and all her Hidden friends. I cannot wait to read more of this series.
November 4, 2015
I'm a sucker for these kinds of stories. Although the description hardly touches the main storyline it gives you that immediate feeling of "this is going to be fun!". The hidden world of monsters is in trouble and they need help. This light hearted book series, which is a complete and finished series, has a way of getting to you. The monsters become humane and at some point tears are involved. Anyone with a weakness for the underdogs should read this.
August 20, 2024
Zoey isn't much for Christmas. Unfortunately her closet monster is a big fan, and is determined to give her a Christmas she'll never forget. Mainly because her home has exploded with every Christmas decoration Maurice could get his hands on.
While escaping the crazy that is her house, Zoey comes across a Selkie who's skin has been stolen. She's determined to get it back... after all, that's what she's there for.
A cute little short story, but not on a par with the regular novels.
While escaping the crazy that is her house, Zoey comes across a Selkie who's skin has been stolen. She's determined to get it back... after all, that's what she's there for.
A cute little short story, but not on a par with the regular novels.
August 31, 2016
This clever holiday tale gives readers a glimpse at Zoey's first Christmas since Maurice, the closet monster, re-entered her life. As Zoey tries to deal with her feelings about this stressful time, she discovers that maybe her new family has something more to offer.
A great short story for fans of R.L. Naquin's Monster Haven series!
A great short story for fans of R.L. Naquin's Monster Haven series!
September 1, 2015
"Hidden Holidays" is a Monster Haven Short Story by R.L. Naquin. It's Maurice's first Christmas with Zoey and he wants to do it right. However, Zoey is feeling overwhelmed since she hasn't really celebrated Christmas since she was a little girl. Overall, this was another great addition to an awesome series. I really enjoyed it and hope that you will enjoy it too!
February 4, 2014
Way too short! I really enjoy these stories!!!
April 10, 2014
I love this series, and this short story was a great holiday addition. So much heart. So much fun. Loved it!
July 28, 2014
A sweet short story about Zoey feeling out Christmas with her new "family".
June 27, 2021
Lovely short
A cute short story nestled in the Monster Haven world. Lots of lovely references to many of the characters and how they celebrate the Christmas time festivals.
A cute short story nestled in the Monster Haven world. Lots of lovely references to many of the characters and how they celebrate the Christmas time festivals.
Displaying 1 - 20 of 20 reviews