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Collier's Creek Christmas #6
The Map Home
Stolen toys and a naughty St. Nick. Will a holiday crime spree bring two hearts together?
Ask Dakota and he’ll say the wall around his heart is high and the moat deep for a reason. Love is a lie.
If Tad knows one single truth, it’s that Dakota is his personal North Star. Dakota, the boy Tad bonded with at fourteen, has grown into Dakota, the man he loves. The second, more frustrating truth, is that Dakota is one of the most stubborn people on the planet.
Dakota craves a simple existence. Work. Sleep. Eat. Hang out with his best friend. Keep things platonic. No one knows him better than Tad.
The holidays have arrived, and it’s supposed to be a time of celebration, but some blackhearted person steals the donations to the town toy box. Dakota finds himself working the case of the purloined toys, while Tad fills in at the town newspaper. It’s inevitable their paths will cross.
Tad is fine with crossing paths--and more. Is it going too far adding Dakota Green to the top of his Christmas wish list?
And what will it take for Dakota to realize that he deserves happiness? That Tad, the person who knows him best, is the one for him?
Celebrate the holidays with the men of Collier’s Creek, where magic fills the air and irresistible romances are the highlight of the festive season. Six low-angst romances, each filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy romance.
#grumpy-sunshine, #lowangst #holidayromance, #idiotstolovers, #friendstolovers, #foundfamily #acceptingbiofamily #coldhands #spikedhotchocolate
Ask Dakota and he’ll say the wall around his heart is high and the moat deep for a reason. Love is a lie.
If Tad knows one single truth, it’s that Dakota is his personal North Star. Dakota, the boy Tad bonded with at fourteen, has grown into Dakota, the man he loves. The second, more frustrating truth, is that Dakota is one of the most stubborn people on the planet.
Dakota craves a simple existence. Work. Sleep. Eat. Hang out with his best friend. Keep things platonic. No one knows him better than Tad.
The holidays have arrived, and it’s supposed to be a time of celebration, but some blackhearted person steals the donations to the town toy box. Dakota finds himself working the case of the purloined toys, while Tad fills in at the town newspaper. It’s inevitable their paths will cross.
Tad is fine with crossing paths--and more. Is it going too far adding Dakota Green to the top of his Christmas wish list?
And what will it take for Dakota to realize that he deserves happiness? That Tad, the person who knows him best, is the one for him?
Celebrate the holidays with the men of Collier’s Creek, where magic fills the air and irresistible romances are the highlight of the festive season. Six low-angst romances, each filled with heartwarming moments and swoon-worthy romance.
#grumpy-sunshine, #lowangst #holidayromance, #idiotstolovers, #friendstolovers, #foundfamily #acceptingbiofamily #coldhands #spikedhotchocolate
190 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 26, 2024
53 people are currently reading
92 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
50 books550 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
February 11, 2025
Oh, man, this was boring as hell. I think this is the first romance I've ever read where the first time anything even remotely romantic happens is at the 58% mark. Even though it's not that long of a book, it took FOREVER to get there.
Neither of these dudes were interesting, and even though Dakota had a past that could have been more insightful, the author just sticks to tired tropes about it. Plus there is the fact that we get a major nugget of information about Dakota's mom that wasn't disclosed at any other point in the first 65% of the book or whatever and the revelation was just out of left field and, frankly, weird.
There are three ongoing mysteries in this book. One of them, the theft of some teddy bears donated by one of the MC's mom for the town's needy children, actually turns out to have something of a cute resolution. The other mysteries, though, get solved through some of the most blatant deus ex machinas I've ever read. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Just a crock of cow patties.
The two sex scenes were uninspired and insipid. Obviously written by someone who hasn't a clue about two men having sex.
Blah, what a waste of time.
Neither of these dudes were interesting, and even though Dakota had a past that could have been more insightful, the author just sticks to tired tropes about it. Plus there is the fact that we get a major nugget of information about Dakota's mom that wasn't disclosed at any other point in the first 65% of the book or whatever and the revelation was just out of left field and, frankly, weird.
There are three ongoing mysteries in this book. One of them, the theft of some teddy bears donated by one of the MC's mom for the town's needy children, actually turns out to have something of a cute resolution. The other mysteries, though, get solved through some of the most blatant deus ex machinas I've ever read. Stupid, stupid, stupid. Just a crock of cow patties.
The two sex scenes were uninspired and insipid. Obviously written by someone who hasn't a clue about two men having sex.
Blah, what a waste of time.
December 9, 2024
Dakota is a deputy patrolling the Christmas festivities in Collier’s Creek. His best friend, Tad, helped him when they were 14 and his mother abandoned him, and Tad’s family took him in.
They are very much in love since they could remember but neither of them takes the first step for fear of ruining their friendship.
It's my first experience with this writer and I loved the book. It has a small mystery plot that gives it some fun because it ends up being no mystery at all.
Another writer to discover.
They are very much in love since they could remember but neither of them takes the first step for fear of ruining their friendship.
It's my first experience with this writer and I loved the book. It has a small mystery plot that gives it some fun because it ends up being no mystery at all.
Another writer to discover.
September 21, 2025
Yearny Christmas romance
I enjoyed the premise of this, I like a good friends to lovers story. There's also a lots of yearning between Dakota and Tad. However, I did find the story on the long side. I felt that it could've been wrapped up much sooner. It was a very slow read. Also, after reading a little of the book, I was expecting a mystery/ romance plot. However, although this was suggested during the story, nothing happened. The whole mystery thing just fizzled out. The good thing was how much I enjoyed Dakota and Tad together, they made for a cute couple.
I enjoyed the premise of this, I like a good friends to lovers story. There's also a lots of yearning between Dakota and Tad. However, I did find the story on the long side. I felt that it could've been wrapped up much sooner. It was a very slow read. Also, after reading a little of the book, I was expecting a mystery/ romance plot. However, although this was suggested during the story, nothing happened. The whole mystery thing just fizzled out. The good thing was how much I enjoyed Dakota and Tad together, they made for a cute couple.
February 7, 2025
I fell in love with Dakota when he appeared in the Veiled Intentions series. His story is tragic. His drug addict mom left him behind. Luckily, she left him with a family that cared for him and didn’t turn him out on the streets. The experience definitely left its mark on Dakota. He never quite feels like he belongs. He can’t quite believe that someone like Tad really wants to be with him. Tad is generally full of optimism although he is beginning to doubt he can convince Dakota to give a relationship a try. Dakota goes through a lot of emotional growth during the book but doesn’t fully stop being an introvert. I like that once he made up his mind about his relationship with Tad there was no back and forth should I/shouldn’t I conflict. He still doesn’t believe he really deserves Tad, but he is all in. Fans of the Veiled Intentions series will enjoy the cameos by Niall and Mat. I love how similar brothers Niall and Dakota are even though they were not raised together. It is great getting to see two introverts learning to accept someone into their lives and create a family. Although there are several mysteries in the book focuses on the romance. The HEA is sweet. I recommend this book to anyone who enjoys male/male romance.
December 2, 2024
Here's Elle Keaton's "The Map Home." It's a part of the multi-author series, Collier's Creek Christmas.
["Stolen toys and a naughty St. Nick. Will a holiday crime spree bring two hearts together?
Ask Dakota and he’ll say the wall around his heart is high and the moat deep for a reason. Love is a lie.
If Tad knows one single truth, it’s that Dakota is his personal North Star. Dakota, the boy Tad bonded with at fourteen, has grown into Dakota, the man he loves. The second, more frustrating truth, is that Dakota is one of the most stubborn people on the planet.
Dakota craves a simple existence. Work. Sleep. Eat. Hang out with his best friend. Keep things platonic. No one knows him better than Tad.
The holidays have arrived, and it’s supposed to be a time of celebration, but some blackhearted person steals the donations to the town toy box. Dakota finds himself working the case of the purloined toys, while Tad fills in at the town newspaper. It’s inevitable their paths will cross.
Tad is fine with crossing paths--and more. Is it going too far adding Dakota Green to the top of his Christmas wish list?
And what will it take for Dakota to realize that he deserves happiness? That Tad, the person who knows him best, is the one for him?"]
These two. My freaking goodness, these two. Both so hopelessly in love and so afraid to do anything about it. So afraid of what the other will think, of their friendship being ruined, of change itself.
Luckily, something, someone, Christmas itself maybe, gave them both the push they needed to find home.
I loved them. And I loooooved how everyone in their lives knew automatically when they changed from friends to something more. The entire town celebrated. It was adorable as hell.
And now I have the OG series...
#themaphome #ellekeaton #collierscreekchristmasseries #collierscreek #collierscreekseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
["Stolen toys and a naughty St. Nick. Will a holiday crime spree bring two hearts together?
Ask Dakota and he’ll say the wall around his heart is high and the moat deep for a reason. Love is a lie.
If Tad knows one single truth, it’s that Dakota is his personal North Star. Dakota, the boy Tad bonded with at fourteen, has grown into Dakota, the man he loves. The second, more frustrating truth, is that Dakota is one of the most stubborn people on the planet.
Dakota craves a simple existence. Work. Sleep. Eat. Hang out with his best friend. Keep things platonic. No one knows him better than Tad.
The holidays have arrived, and it’s supposed to be a time of celebration, but some blackhearted person steals the donations to the town toy box. Dakota finds himself working the case of the purloined toys, while Tad fills in at the town newspaper. It’s inevitable their paths will cross.
Tad is fine with crossing paths--and more. Is it going too far adding Dakota Green to the top of his Christmas wish list?
And what will it take for Dakota to realize that he deserves happiness? That Tad, the person who knows him best, is the one for him?"]
These two. My freaking goodness, these two. Both so hopelessly in love and so afraid to do anything about it. So afraid of what the other will think, of their friendship being ruined, of change itself.
Luckily, something, someone, Christmas itself maybe, gave them both the push they needed to find home.
I loved them. And I loooooved how everyone in their lives knew automatically when they changed from friends to something more. The entire town celebrated. It was adorable as hell.
And now I have the OG series...
#themaphome #ellekeaton #collierscreekchristmasseries #collierscreek #collierscreekseries #books #queerbooks #queererotica #bodicerippers #bookstagram #bookphotography #ilovebooks
November 28, 2024
Dakota is a deputy patrolling the Christmas festivities in Collier’s Creek. His best friend, Tad, helped him when they were 14 and his Mom abandoned him and Tad’s family took him in.
Tad’s been in love with Dakota since then, but hasn’t gotten any sign that Dakota feels the same. When he helps out Curtis, the owner of the local paper, by writing articles and taking pictures of Christmas events, he happens upon a mystery.
He tells Kota about a Santa suit someone leaves behind on the ground in the park, then they find a bunch teddy bears that were stolen from a donation box destroyed in a field.
Meanwhile, a missing person has been reported, and a developer is rumoured to have bought land that shouldn’t have been sold. Tad’s hands are full investigating the land issue, and Dakota is working on the missing person.
These mysteries bring Tad and Dakota closer, and they give in to their feelings for each other. Dakota doesn’t feel good enough with his background, but Tad knows him to be a good man, and Kota shares with him that Tad is his home.
The mysteries are solved, the developer was a scammer and the land is safe, and the missing woman returns.
The teddy bears mystery turns out to be a misunderstanding because Boone, Tad’s brother, put a ring to propose to his girlfriend in a bear and lost track of it.
It was great to finally read Dakota’s story, as he’s come up as Niall’s half brother from another series. He and Tad have interesting careers that combine well, and they have a solid foundation as friends in tough times for Dakota. Boone’s side story was the best, hilarious.
I received this ARC for free and am pleased to provide my honest review in gratitude.
Tad’s been in love with Dakota since then, but hasn’t gotten any sign that Dakota feels the same. When he helps out Curtis, the owner of the local paper, by writing articles and taking pictures of Christmas events, he happens upon a mystery.
He tells Kota about a Santa suit someone leaves behind on the ground in the park, then they find a bunch teddy bears that were stolen from a donation box destroyed in a field.
Meanwhile, a missing person has been reported, and a developer is rumoured to have bought land that shouldn’t have been sold. Tad’s hands are full investigating the land issue, and Dakota is working on the missing person.
These mysteries bring Tad and Dakota closer, and they give in to their feelings for each other. Dakota doesn’t feel good enough with his background, but Tad knows him to be a good man, and Kota shares with him that Tad is his home.
The mysteries are solved, the developer was a scammer and the land is safe, and the missing woman returns.
The teddy bears mystery turns out to be a misunderstanding because Boone, Tad’s brother, put a ring to propose to his girlfriend in a bear and lost track of it.
It was great to finally read Dakota’s story, as he’s come up as Niall’s half brother from another series. He and Tad have interesting careers that combine well, and they have a solid foundation as friends in tough times for Dakota. Boone’s side story was the best, hilarious.
I received this ARC for free and am pleased to provide my honest review in gratitude.
December 12, 2024
3.5 rounded up
This was a sweet friends to lovers story. Tad and Dakota have been friends since they were young. Dakota's mom abandoned him, so Tad's family took him in on their ranch, providing work, a home and cover so CPS wouldn't put him in foster care. Despite that, there was never a brotherly feeling between the two boys. They already had an established friendship (and crush) and were teens when Dakota's mom bailed.
Dakota is in love with Tad but tries to stamp it down, convinced Tad's family would not approve or think he's good enough for their son. Tad, meanwhile, is helplessly in love with Dakota and while he is afraid of pushing his best friend away, he's also determined to make Dakota see they not only could but should be more.
There was a good deal of pining but a very lighthearted feel to the story overall. The pace was a bit slow at times. The mystery was engaging but the solution ended up feeling like a bit of a letdown to me. I think I was expecting Tal Bauer style suspense, but it was much sillier than that.
I loved that when Dakota finally realized he couldn't resist how he felt anymore, he didn't hold back. I also enjoyed how supportive the community was of them, and how much they were rooting for Dakota and Tad as much as the reader.
I went back to read the series from the start because this one was so much fun, and I wanted the back story to the other couples that were mentioned (the only one I had previously read was Katherine McIntyre's). If you're looking for a light, fun romance, this is a good pick.
I received a copy of this book for free and these are my honest thoughts about it.
This was a sweet friends to lovers story. Tad and Dakota have been friends since they were young. Dakota's mom abandoned him, so Tad's family took him in on their ranch, providing work, a home and cover so CPS wouldn't put him in foster care. Despite that, there was never a brotherly feeling between the two boys. They already had an established friendship (and crush) and were teens when Dakota's mom bailed.
Dakota is in love with Tad but tries to stamp it down, convinced Tad's family would not approve or think he's good enough for their son. Tad, meanwhile, is helplessly in love with Dakota and while he is afraid of pushing his best friend away, he's also determined to make Dakota see they not only could but should be more.
There was a good deal of pining but a very lighthearted feel to the story overall. The pace was a bit slow at times. The mystery was engaging but the solution ended up feeling like a bit of a letdown to me. I think I was expecting Tal Bauer style suspense, but it was much sillier than that.
I loved that when Dakota finally realized he couldn't resist how he felt anymore, he didn't hold back. I also enjoyed how supportive the community was of them, and how much they were rooting for Dakota and Tad as much as the reader.
I went back to read the series from the start because this one was so much fun, and I wanted the back story to the other couples that were mentioned (the only one I had previously read was Katherine McIntyre's). If you're looking for a light, fun romance, this is a good pick.
I received a copy of this book for free and these are my honest thoughts about it.
December 12, 2024
THE MAP HOME is part of the Collier's Creek Christmas series. The Collier's Creek series is a multi- author series, all the books are standalones and they can be read in any order.
Dakota and Tad have been friends since they were teens. Dakota's mom abandon him and Tad did everything in his power to keep Dakota in town. Now as adults Dakota has stayed in Collier's Creek and is a Sheriff's Office deputy. Since he is the new guy he is working a lot but he is okay with that except in cuts into time he would get to spend with Tad.
Tad has been in love with Dakota for as long as he can remember but never wanted to make their friendship weird by telling him. Tad could never imagine Dakota having those kinds of feelings for him. When they both seem to stumble onto a mystery of sorts, they work together to try and solve the case but along the way they finally confess their feelings for one another.
I love this little town and all the unique people in it. I loved the friends to lovers second chance-ish vibe with this one and them finally having a much needed conversation putting everything out there. Dakota has his walls built high but Tad has always been the one allowed to get behind these walls and see what no one else does. They were so perfect for each other and throw in a bit of a who done it and this is a perfect Christmas read!
I was given a copy of this book to read and review by Neon Rainbow.
Dakota and Tad have been friends since they were teens. Dakota's mom abandon him and Tad did everything in his power to keep Dakota in town. Now as adults Dakota has stayed in Collier's Creek and is a Sheriff's Office deputy. Since he is the new guy he is working a lot but he is okay with that except in cuts into time he would get to spend with Tad.
Tad has been in love with Dakota for as long as he can remember but never wanted to make their friendship weird by telling him. Tad could never imagine Dakota having those kinds of feelings for him. When they both seem to stumble onto a mystery of sorts, they work together to try and solve the case but along the way they finally confess their feelings for one another.
I love this little town and all the unique people in it. I loved the friends to lovers second chance-ish vibe with this one and them finally having a much needed conversation putting everything out there. Dakota has his walls built high but Tad has always been the one allowed to get behind these walls and see what no one else does. They were so perfect for each other and throw in a bit of a who done it and this is a perfect Christmas read!
I was given a copy of this book to read and review by Neon Rainbow.
November 26, 2024
I received a free copy. This review is submitted voluntarily.
Dakota was abandoned by his mother when he was 15. Luckily, he was taken in by Tad’s ranch-owning parents, Waylon and Penny. When they grow up, Tad works at a bar but wants to work in journalism while Dakota becomes a Sheriff’s deputy. Each is in love with the other, but they pine in secret. A couple of bad things occur (theft of teddy bears contributed by Tad’s parents and a real estate fraud scheme) that are solved before the end. However, after all of these stumbling blocks are overcome, they arrive at their happy ending.
I enjoyed the main characters. Despite their love for each other, they had some difficulty get together. Tad was hoping that Dakota would notice that he was pining, while Dakota was afraid of ruining their friendship and that he did not deserve Tad. I might have missed it, but it wasn’t clear to me how they arrived at who was behind the theft of the stuffed Santas. The resolution of the fraud scheme arrived as kind of a surprise but was credible in a way. That said, the two MCs were fun. The secondary characters are realistic, though some are a bit over the top. And several of them we’ve seen in other books in the series. But all make contributions to plot development.
While I tend to think of myself as a bit of a Grinch, I truly enjoy these Christmas series.
Dakota was abandoned by his mother when he was 15. Luckily, he was taken in by Tad’s ranch-owning parents, Waylon and Penny. When they grow up, Tad works at a bar but wants to work in journalism while Dakota becomes a Sheriff’s deputy. Each is in love with the other, but they pine in secret. A couple of bad things occur (theft of teddy bears contributed by Tad’s parents and a real estate fraud scheme) that are solved before the end. However, after all of these stumbling blocks are overcome, they arrive at their happy ending.
I enjoyed the main characters. Despite their love for each other, they had some difficulty get together. Tad was hoping that Dakota would notice that he was pining, while Dakota was afraid of ruining their friendship and that he did not deserve Tad. I might have missed it, but it wasn’t clear to me how they arrived at who was behind the theft of the stuffed Santas. The resolution of the fraud scheme arrived as kind of a surprise but was credible in a way. That said, the two MCs were fun. The secondary characters are realistic, though some are a bit over the top. And several of them we’ve seen in other books in the series. But all make contributions to plot development.
While I tend to think of myself as a bit of a Grinch, I truly enjoy these Christmas series.
December 1, 2024
Ask Dakota and he’ll say the wall around his heart is high and the moat deep for a reason. Love is a lie. If Tad knows one single truth, it’s that Dakota is his personal North Star. Dakota, the boy Tad bonded with at fourteen, has grown into Dakota, the man he loves. The second, more frustrating truth, is that Dakota is one of the most stubborn people on the planet. Dakota craves a simple existence. Work. Sleep. Eat. Hang out with his best friend. Keep things platonic. No one knows him better than Tad. The holidays have arrived, and it’s supposed to be a time of celebration, but some blackhearted person steals the donations to the town toy box. Dakota finds himself working the case of the purloined toys, while Tad fills in at the town newspaper. It’s inevitable their paths will cross. Tad is fine with crossing paths and more. Is it going too far adding Dakota Green to the top of his Christmas wish list? And what will it take for Dakota to realise that he deserves happiness? That Tad, the person who knows him best, is the one for him?
This was a sweet story but I did find it quite hard going in the mid and so wonder if it could have been told in a shorter format. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
This was a sweet story but I did find it quite hard going in the mid and so wonder if it could have been told in a shorter format. Easy to read and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.
December 2, 2024
This is a nice grumpy/sunshine Christmas story which actually foollows Full disclosure (Veiled Intentions book 4) but can be read as a standalone. The prologue was awesome and actually promised way more than it actually delivered.
Frankly I was expecting a bit more depth in relationships and plot development. Relationships (plural) is intentional not a typo.
Dakota is warry of any relationship for a good reason. Being accepted and given a home doesn't include him as a family member by default - or so he feels. From my point of view despite his personality, it was a failure on Tad's parents side. They should just try harder to include him. Tad's 'idiot' brother is a nice side kick. So is the solving of the mystery of stolen teddy bears. It's kinda hilarious. Missing person case is meh.
In general - this story should be longer - deserved to be longer with some added depth and plot development.
Also I absolutely hate when I don't know how the MC's look like, because I'm a very visual reader. I had to check the previous book to find out.
I loved Nial's and Mat's cameo appearances - so in the characters. Also I highly recommend Veiled Intentions series (Mat's and Nial's story). It's actually one of my favorites of all time.
Frankly I was expecting a bit more depth in relationships and plot development. Relationships (plural) is intentional not a typo.
Dakota is warry of any relationship for a good reason. Being accepted and given a home doesn't include him as a family member by default - or so he feels. From my point of view despite his personality, it was a failure on Tad's parents side. They should just try harder to include him. Tad's 'idiot' brother is a nice side kick. So is the solving of the mystery of stolen teddy bears. It's kinda hilarious. Missing person case is meh.
In general - this story should be longer - deserved to be longer with some added depth and plot development.
Also I absolutely hate when I don't know how the MC's look like, because I'm a very visual reader. I had to check the previous book to find out.
I loved Nial's and Mat's cameo appearances - so in the characters. Also I highly recommend Veiled Intentions series (Mat's and Nial's story). It's actually one of my favorites of all time.
November 30, 2024
Clearly didn’t read the premise properly so that’s my bad. I got the tone wrong immediately.
I don’t know why I thought this book would be much darker just because there was a missing person in the beginning and then there’s missing toys and then there is a accident. Not in that order but you get the idea. And for some reason, I thought all of this was connected. There is even a story of a developer trying to take over parts of the town. And I thought, somehow, all of these crimes could be part of some bigger crime. But it wasn’t at all. Instead, this book was a lot lighter and fluffier and sillier.
I liked the couple together, but I wanted a bit more longing, and I wanted a bit more angst before they finally get together and there wasn’t much of that . Somehow it just felt a little bit too easy and too simple. I dunno.
It had all the ingredients for a great book and somehow just didn’t do it for me in the way that I wanted. But it was a nice light Christmas book. I guess somehow I didn’t want that?!! I dunno. I’m weird I guess lol
I don’t know why I thought this book would be much darker just because there was a missing person in the beginning and then there’s missing toys and then there is a accident. Not in that order but you get the idea. And for some reason, I thought all of this was connected. There is even a story of a developer trying to take over parts of the town. And I thought, somehow, all of these crimes could be part of some bigger crime. But it wasn’t at all. Instead, this book was a lot lighter and fluffier and sillier.
I liked the couple together, but I wanted a bit more longing, and I wanted a bit more angst before they finally get together and there wasn’t much of that . Somehow it just felt a little bit too easy and too simple. I dunno.
It had all the ingredients for a great book and somehow just didn’t do it for me in the way that I wanted. But it was a nice light Christmas book. I guess somehow I didn’t want that?!! I dunno. I’m weird I guess lol
December 6, 2024
This was cute! I enjoyed this story, but I felt like there was a bit too much going on for a novella. I felt like too much of the story focused on other things happening in Collier's Creek. Dakota and Tad have been in love with each other for a decade(or close to it) and while there was some pining I wanted more pining from them. I know not every character can be as emotional as I'd like them to be, but I would have liked more frok both of them. It felt like Dakota's reasoning for not doing anything before was a bit flimsy and things could have been resolved sooner with a bit of talking, but I also underatand why Dakota was afraid of moving their friendhship into a relationship. Dakota's mom abandoning him really marked him and I understand why he was afraid of taking the next step with Tad.
All in all I enjoyed it and it was fun being back in Collier's Creek again. So, if you want a cute and sweet Christmas novella with two best friends finally taking the next step then this novella is for you.
All in all I enjoyed it and it was fun being back in Collier's Creek again. So, if you want a cute and sweet Christmas novella with two best friends finally taking the next step then this novella is for you.
December 7, 2024
The Map Home is Elle Keaton's contribution to the multi-author series, Collier's Creek Christmas. It's a sweet best friends to lovers story. Tad and Dakota met at fourteen and became best friends. Tad's feelings turned to love, but Dakota seems oblivious. Meanwhile, Dakota is in love with him. Both are afraid they'll lose their friendship if their feelings are not reciprocated.
It's a pretty familiar trope, freshened up nicely by Ms. Keaton. That said, there are a few too many storylines going on here. While they could be connected, stolen toys, missing person, evil developer, they aren't. A few too many balls in the air for a novella.
Tad and Dakota's romance is sweet steam. Dakota has a hard time believing in love, but Tad's patience pays off. Characters from the other Collier stories pop up, lending nosy support. The worldbuilding fits into the Collier world very believably.
A fun, maybe not so quick read. A bit of pining and angst. But the story stays light and sweet.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
It's a pretty familiar trope, freshened up nicely by Ms. Keaton. That said, there are a few too many storylines going on here. While they could be connected, stolen toys, missing person, evil developer, they aren't. A few too many balls in the air for a novella.
Tad and Dakota's romance is sweet steam. Dakota has a hard time believing in love, but Tad's patience pays off. Characters from the other Collier stories pop up, lending nosy support. The worldbuilding fits into the Collier world very believably.
A fun, maybe not so quick read. A bit of pining and angst. But the story stays light and sweet.
I received an advanced copy of this book and this is my review.
December 9, 2024
3.5 - childhood BFFs to lovers is probably my most favorite trope & definitely this was the best, sweetest part of the book for me. This is a cute small town novella with light holiday elements with Tad, who occasionally works for the newspaper as well as holds other odd jobs, and Dakota, whose mom abandoned him at age 14, so he stayed with Tad's family, and then grew up to work in law enforcement. Dakota's background has made him very skittish, but Tad gives it his all, and finally Dakota sees that Tad is his home. My two fave parts in the book reference the title and "home" and these moments just really made it for me (cue my tears). I would have enjoyed more focus on the romance itself and maybe had one or two of the several other threads removed - there was a bit too much going on for me in terms of side stories and it threw off the pacing for me. However, I loved Dakota and Tad together and just wanted more of them :) I enjoyed the elements of found family very much as well.
I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received a complimentary copy and am leaving this review voluntarily.
November 26, 2024
Sweet, slow-ish burn, best friends to lovers, grumpy/sunshine, Christmas story.
This time we are back to Colliers Creek with the story of Dakota, one of the chief deputy, and Tad, a journalist/server, who are best friends since they are 14. They met when Dakota's mother was hired as a cook at Tad's family ranch, but shortly after that Dakota's mother left leaving her son behind. Dakota was then taken in by Tad's family. They both have been in love with each other forever, and they both know it, but Dakota does not consider himself worthy of Tad, and Tad is patiently waiting for Dakota to be ready. In the meanwhile, the town is confronted to a couple of mysteries they kind of try to solve together.
They both are very sweet and vulnerable, and I loved how Tad understands Dakota, and is willing to wait for him. The story reads easily, and is a feel-good warm holiday romance.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
This time we are back to Colliers Creek with the story of Dakota, one of the chief deputy, and Tad, a journalist/server, who are best friends since they are 14. They met when Dakota's mother was hired as a cook at Tad's family ranch, but shortly after that Dakota's mother left leaving her son behind. Dakota was then taken in by Tad's family. They both have been in love with each other forever, and they both know it, but Dakota does not consider himself worthy of Tad, and Tad is patiently waiting for Dakota to be ready. In the meanwhile, the town is confronted to a couple of mysteries they kind of try to solve together.
They both are very sweet and vulnerable, and I loved how Tad understands Dakota, and is willing to wait for him. The story reads easily, and is a feel-good warm holiday romance.
I got an ARC and this is my honest review.
November 27, 2024
Tad Gillespie and Dakota Green have been best friends since they were 14 years old. Dakota's mother was the cook at Tad's parent's ranch until she just left one day and left Dakota at the ranch. The Gillespie's took him in and treated him like family. Dakota is now a new deputy and is given an assignment to find out who stole some teddy bears that were to be given to the town's children for Christmas. Tad is a journalist and is helping out at the local newspaper and also is trying to figure out what happened to the teddy bears. Tad also has been in love with Dakota for years and thinks that Dakota feels the same. Each is afraid of ruining their friendship. However, mystery and the Christmas season work to bring the two closer and finally admitting their feelings for each other. This was a great friends to lovers romance with very little angst. It was also great to see Matt and Niall from the Veiled Intention series.
November 30, 2024
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Swoony Christmasy Best-Friends goodness with a classic Elle Keaton side of mystery and suspense.
There’s nothing better than best friends mutually pining for each other. I love the familiarity they have and I love watching them fall completely.
I especially love watching Dakota find his person and his home. That boy deserves all the love and to realize how amazing he is.
Tad’s a great guy, always ready to stand by Dakota, but also his own person. A journalist who can’t help himself when a crime takes place and a sketchy business deal has people buzzing.
It’s a fun side story while watching them fall in love.
Ps. you’ll love the connections to other of her stories.
Swoony Christmasy Best-Friends goodness with a classic Elle Keaton side of mystery and suspense.
There’s nothing better than best friends mutually pining for each other. I love the familiarity they have and I love watching them fall completely.
I especially love watching Dakota find his person and his home. That boy deserves all the love and to realize how amazing he is.
Tad’s a great guy, always ready to stand by Dakota, but also his own person. A journalist who can’t help himself when a crime takes place and a sketchy business deal has people buzzing.
It’s a fun side story while watching them fall in love.
Ps. you’ll love the connections to other of her stories.
December 2, 2024
- small town
- grumpy/sunshine
- friends to lovers
- mutual pining
- slow burn
A sweet Christmassy grumpy/sunshine story with likeable MCs.
I had immediately a soft spot for Dakota. I wanted to hug him so hard. He deserved everything good, especially finding his person and getting the family he longed for all his life. Even if he knew wonderful people who took him in he never felt like he belonged. I was so happy when that finally, finally changed.
To watch those two friends falling completely in love and getting their HEA after years of mutual pining was satisfying and wonderful. And I was so there for the ride.
Sadly only 4 stars from me because I have to say I felt like I was missing some background informations. And that I didn't really get to know how the MCs looked was a bit of a bummer, I love to picture them while reading.
Still: I had fun reading their story and enjoyed it. It was entertaining and an easy read.
- grumpy/sunshine
- friends to lovers
- mutual pining
- slow burn
A sweet Christmassy grumpy/sunshine story with likeable MCs.
I had immediately a soft spot for Dakota. I wanted to hug him so hard. He deserved everything good, especially finding his person and getting the family he longed for all his life. Even if he knew wonderful people who took him in he never felt like he belonged. I was so happy when that finally, finally changed.
To watch those two friends falling completely in love and getting their HEA after years of mutual pining was satisfying and wonderful. And I was so there for the ride.
Sadly only 4 stars from me because I have to say I felt like I was missing some background informations. And that I didn't really get to know how the MCs looked was a bit of a bummer, I love to picture them while reading.
Still: I had fun reading their story and enjoyed it. It was entertaining and an easy read.
December 9, 2024
This was a really heart-warming friends to lovers romance that gave me what I love about Collier's Creek but also gave Dakota his HEA with a few cross over characters from other Ellie Keaton series. When it clicked that Dakota was Niall's brother I was so excited to see him finally get his story! He and Tad had brilliant chemistry; it was definitely a slow burn until just over half way through but after that point they were inseparable and there was a lot of sweetness. The secondary characters were great and I liked the hints about some of the other/next stories in this series of Collier's Creek (I've read these already so it was nice to see how they tied together with timelines). Could it have had a bit more depth in terms of the actual police aspect? Yes probably, however I don't think that was the goal of the story.
Overall, Dakota and Tad deserved their HEA and it was just a really good read that I'd definitely recommend.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
Overall, Dakota and Tad deserved their HEA and it was just a really good read that I'd definitely recommend.
I received an ARC and this is my honest review.
December 2, 2024
3.75 stars
I loved Dakota, he is a younger not quite as hard Niall. It’s great to see especially considering they grew up apart but the brothers are very much alike, with a number of shared mannerisms. Dakota would like to think he is the grumpiest but Niall has him well and truly covered here. He is not very social which is hilarious as he has a job that requires him to be social.
Tad was a good foil for Dakota. He was more social and helped to bring him out of his shell. I liked how he just kept plugging away. He pushed but never too far, so as not to ruin the friendship.
The secondary characters are great, from Tad’s parents through to Amanda the brothers fiancée. Still not too sure about Boone but his comedy of errors was funny and a bit sad as well.
The side mysteries were covered pretty quicky and bear one was good.
Quick entertaining read
ARC provided by the author.
I loved Dakota, he is a younger not quite as hard Niall. It’s great to see especially considering they grew up apart but the brothers are very much alike, with a number of shared mannerisms. Dakota would like to think he is the grumpiest but Niall has him well and truly covered here. He is not very social which is hilarious as he has a job that requires him to be social.
Tad was a good foil for Dakota. He was more social and helped to bring him out of his shell. I liked how he just kept plugging away. He pushed but never too far, so as not to ruin the friendship.
The secondary characters are great, from Tad’s parents through to Amanda the brothers fiancée. Still not too sure about Boone but his comedy of errors was funny and a bit sad as well.
The side mysteries were covered pretty quicky and bear one was good.
Quick entertaining read
ARC provided by the author.
December 3, 2024
Tad and Dakota are two sides of a whole. Dakota has self-esteem issues and abandonment issues. When he was fourteen his mother Left him at the Bar G ranch and never returned. Tad is the younger son of the ranch owners and begged Dakota not to run away. Waylon and Penny took Dakota in and raised him along with their two sons.
Dakota is the newest deputy at the Collier's Creek sheriff's office. Tad works a few parttime jobs, but longs for a job in journalism. Dakota and Tad have loved each other for years but worry about the effects on their friendship if they pursue a relationship.
The Christmas season is upon us and things are booming in Collier's Creek. The first year of a toy drive is marred by the case of the purloined teddy bears. With the heat out at Dakota's apartment, Dakota moves in with Tad and things really heat up.
Dakota is the newest deputy at the Collier's Creek sheriff's office. Tad works a few parttime jobs, but longs for a job in journalism. Dakota and Tad have loved each other for years but worry about the effects on their friendship if they pursue a relationship.
The Christmas season is upon us and things are booming in Collier's Creek. The first year of a toy drive is marred by the case of the purloined teddy bears. With the heat out at Dakota's apartment, Dakota moves in with Tad and things really heat up.
December 14, 2024
* best friends to lovers
* holiday cheer
* teddy drama
* Grumpy/sunshine
* mutual pining
Another enjoyable addition to the Colliers Creek Christmas series. This stars Dakota, a new Deputy in the sheriffs department, but long time resident of Colliers Creek. He has abandonment issues (for good reason) and doesn't want to lose his best friend if his feelings are unrequited.
Tad is lovely, a great guy, good friend and pining for Dakota since they were 14.
The main mystery is quite lighthearted and other aspects of the plot are dealt with almost off page. In fact I would have been happy to do away with the land grab plot and save it for another book. It didn't really add anything to this story or the relationship.
I liked getting more of Ben and I'm curious about Jacob.
Overall an enjoyable read.
* holiday cheer
* teddy drama
* Grumpy/sunshine
* mutual pining
Another enjoyable addition to the Colliers Creek Christmas series. This stars Dakota, a new Deputy in the sheriffs department, but long time resident of Colliers Creek. He has abandonment issues (for good reason) and doesn't want to lose his best friend if his feelings are unrequited.
Tad is lovely, a great guy, good friend and pining for Dakota since they were 14.
The main mystery is quite lighthearted and other aspects of the plot are dealt with almost off page. In fact I would have been happy to do away with the land grab plot and save it for another book. It didn't really add anything to this story or the relationship.
I liked getting more of Ben and I'm curious about Jacob.
Overall an enjoyable read.
March 12, 2025
I love Collier’s Creek and enjoyed how all the stories interact. Dakota and Tad’s story was a wonderful friends-to-lovers, with the added bonus of catching up with Niall and Mat again.
I enjoyed revisiting Collier’s Creek and seeing the townsfolk from another perspective, and of course, Geraldine and Barky.
I loved Tad and Dakota’s friendship and how they were both wanting more but didn’t think it was mutual. Dakota, in particular has a lot to work through, given his past, which I thought was realistic. I loved his family connection to Niall and how he and Mat help out from the distance with the ongoing investigation too.
I liked Tad’s family, and even his older brother grew on me by the end of the story. He’s clueless about so many things! I loved how everything came together, and Tad and Dakota’s HEA.
I enjoyed revisiting Collier’s Creek and seeing the townsfolk from another perspective, and of course, Geraldine and Barky.
I loved Tad and Dakota’s friendship and how they were both wanting more but didn’t think it was mutual. Dakota, in particular has a lot to work through, given his past, which I thought was realistic. I loved his family connection to Niall and how he and Mat help out from the distance with the ongoing investigation too.
I liked Tad’s family, and even his older brother grew on me by the end of the story. He’s clueless about so many things! I loved how everything came together, and Tad and Dakota’s HEA.
April 28, 2025
Tad and Dakota are two sides of a whole. Dakota has self-esteem issues and abandonment issues. When he was fourteen his mother Left him at the Bar G ranch and never returned. Tad is the younger son of the ranch owners and begged Dakota not to run away. Waylon and Penny took Dakota in and raised him along with their two sons.
Dakota is the newest deputy at the Collier's Creek sheriff's office. Tad works a few parttime jobs, but longs for a job in journalism. Dakota and Tad have loved each other for years but worry about the effects on their friendship if they pursue a relationship.
The Christmas season is upon us and things are booming in Collier's Creek. The first year of a toy drive is marred by the case of the purloined teddy bears. With the heat out at Dakota's apartment, Dakota moves in with Tad and things really heat up
Dakota is the newest deputy at the Collier's Creek sheriff's office. Tad works a few parttime jobs, but longs for a job in journalism. Dakota and Tad have loved each other for years but worry about the effects on their friendship if they pursue a relationship.
The Christmas season is upon us and things are booming in Collier's Creek. The first year of a toy drive is marred by the case of the purloined teddy bears. With the heat out at Dakota's apartment, Dakota moves in with Tad and things really heat up
November 26, 2024
Tad & Dakota have been best friends since Dakota came to Colliers Creek as a teen and, like, brothed from the moment Tads entire family took him in during the worst time of his life. Dakota has severe trust issues due to the Nomad existence (thanks to a not great mom) of his youth, making it hard for him to see Tad and always be his match. Tad the ever persistent human that he is breaks down those barriers by showing him what true friendship and love is. This is the kind of best friend to lovers romance I can get behind where the angst is logical and is worked through with each other. Mix in a fun mystery of a not so brillant thief, and you are sure to be entertained from start to finish. Throughout the story, both characters grow beautifully together to show how right they really are for the other. Great addition to the Colliers Creek holiday season.
December 7, 2024
Dakota & Tad
Two best friends spending this holiday season solving a mystery and owning up to their feelings for one another. The Map Home is a fun, sweet story for Dakota & Tad. Dakota had a very difficult life before joining Tad and his family as a teenager, and he's always felt like he was never enough, so why would his love for Tad be any different? Tad spends this important holiday making sure his best friend and love of his life knows that everything he feels is real, earned and lasting. They have the unwavering support of Tad's family, and so many of the Collier's Creek townspeople.
This was an excellent book to read to celebrate the holiday with the ones you love most. The mystery in the background was a little silly at times, but it all made perfect sense in the end.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
Two best friends spending this holiday season solving a mystery and owning up to their feelings for one another. The Map Home is a fun, sweet story for Dakota & Tad. Dakota had a very difficult life before joining Tad and his family as a teenager, and he's always felt like he was never enough, so why would his love for Tad be any different? Tad spends this important holiday making sure his best friend and love of his life knows that everything he feels is real, earned and lasting. They have the unwavering support of Tad's family, and so many of the Collier's Creek townspeople.
This was an excellent book to read to celebrate the holiday with the ones you love most. The mystery in the background was a little silly at times, but it all made perfect sense in the end.
I received an advance copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
December 9, 2024
All a bit too easy
For two friends that have danced around each other for over a decade, their getting together happened suddenly and without any great revelation. It was all a little bit flat because I expected more angst and probably a game-changer that got them together finally.
There were also three separate threads that I thought would all tie in together but no, they were all separate with one being an accident, another being just ridiculous and the third being a damp squib in the end.
I loved both Dakota and Tad as characters, and as a couple, and I'm glad they got their HEA. Tad's parents were fun too. But honestly, my favourite bits were those that included Niall and Mat. They are such good value for money.
For two friends that have danced around each other for over a decade, their getting together happened suddenly and without any great revelation. It was all a little bit flat because I expected more angst and probably a game-changer that got them together finally.
There were also three separate threads that I thought would all tie in together but no, they were all separate with one being an accident, another being just ridiculous and the third being a damp squib in the end.
I loved both Dakota and Tad as characters, and as a couple, and I'm glad they got their HEA. Tad's parents were fun too. But honestly, my favourite bits were those that included Niall and Mat. They are such good value for money.
December 12, 2024
The Map Home by Elle Keaton is a great addition to the Collier’s Creek Christmas series!
Dakota, the chief deputy and Tad, a barman/reporter, best friends since they were kids, have been in love with each other a long time but are both afraid of making a move in case it damages their friendship. Dakota's past has caused him to believe he's isn’t worthy of love.
Both Dakota and Tad are very sweet and vulnerable, and I loved how Tad understands Dakota, and is willing to wait for him.
Expect to find
- small town
- grumpy/sunshine
- friends to lovers
- mutual pining
- slow burn
- low angst
Such an easy quick read that I devoured in one sitting. The Map Home is a sweet, feel-good warm holiday romance that is definitely worth reading.
Dakota, the chief deputy and Tad, a barman/reporter, best friends since they were kids, have been in love with each other a long time but are both afraid of making a move in case it damages their friendship. Dakota's past has caused him to believe he's isn’t worthy of love.
Both Dakota and Tad are very sweet and vulnerable, and I loved how Tad understands Dakota, and is willing to wait for him.
Expect to find
- small town
- grumpy/sunshine
- friends to lovers
- mutual pining
- slow burn
- low angst
Such an easy quick read that I devoured in one sitting. The Map Home is a sweet, feel-good warm holiday romance that is definitely worth reading.
January 23, 2025
Cute story about childhood friends who fall in love after years of pinning for one another. The main characters were both sweet and loved each other a lot. Best friends who each liked the other but took over a decade to ever move anything along and once they did, there was no angst or surprise. It seemed a little too easy in my opinion. But I liked the found family as Dakota had been taken in as a teen by Tad’s family after his mother left him. This story also had 3 “mysteries” happening in town, the case of the missing gal, the stolen and then destroyed teddy bears for charity, and the land/water rights/developer. All were “solved” too easily at the end with no real climax. Basically lackluster. But still a sweet story overall.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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