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Human Resources: A Happy Holiday Short
On the 12th day of Christmas my true love gave to me, a Powerade and a Plan B...
Dimitrius Karimi has been head of the Human Resources department for seven years. He's a walking company handbook, knowledgeable about everything Solei, including the employee dating clause. He knows developing feelings for his coworkers is a big no no, but he still can't stop himself from falling head over heels for Brittany Barnes. She's sweet, beautiful, intelligent, funny, and also his boss. One of the few people standing between him and the unemployment line. The logical solution would be to try and move on from his perpetual infatuation, but after seven years of silent suffering, he decides to throw caution and his governing rules to the wind and pursue what he really wants for Christmas.
Dimitrius Karimi has been head of the Human Resources department for seven years. He's a walking company handbook, knowledgeable about everything Solei, including the employee dating clause. He knows developing feelings for his coworkers is a big no no, but he still can't stop himself from falling head over heels for Brittany Barnes. She's sweet, beautiful, intelligent, funny, and also his boss. One of the few people standing between him and the unemployment line. The logical solution would be to try and move on from his perpetual infatuation, but after seven years of silent suffering, he decides to throw caution and his governing rules to the wind and pursue what he really wants for Christmas.
124 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 5, 2024
86 people are currently reading
259 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews
November 24, 2024
I love when a book just makes me happy. Like I can barely get through reading it cause I’m trying to talk to everyone about it. That’s an Aria Daze’s book every time!! Her stories are such fun, engaging, and entertaining reads. This book was just yummy holiday vibes goodness. It is mutual obsession meets workplace romance, and I swear she wrote this to spite me cause I was talking shit about not liking them. But I jumped at the chance to ARC read this book because the teasers were to good! Pacing wise it would have been a quick read but I highlighted every other paragraph, laughed out loud and reread the scene, and ran to socials to share just how much I was enjoying myself. Dimi is definitely book bae and Brit was relatable annoying but still endearing. And once again Daze’s writing style is one of my favorites.
November 19, 2024
I went to bed last night and woke up to this gem in my inbox this morning. I started this at 8 am and was done by 12 pm because I just could not put it down.
Ms. Daze you gonna get my fired from my jobbb.
I will sing this lady's praises from the rooftops if I could because everything she writes just scratched my brains in the most pleasing way.
Now this book, someone pleaseee get me a Demetrius. I want one nowwww. And Brittney girl I was feeling it with you.
Demetrius was such a sweetheart,he really knew the woman he wanted and he applied massive pressure to get her. I loved how Brittney wasn't afraid to get what she wanted( as most of Aria's characters).
This was a sweet little story of two people pining over one another that I absolutely enjoyed.
Ms. Daze you gonna get my fired from my jobbb.
I will sing this lady's praises from the rooftops if I could because everything she writes just scratched my brains in the most pleasing way.
Now this book, someone pleaseee get me a Demetrius. I want one nowwww. And Brittney girl I was feeling it with you.
Demetrius was such a sweetheart,he really knew the woman he wanted and he applied massive pressure to get her. I loved how Brittney wasn't afraid to get what she wanted( as most of Aria's characters).
This was a sweet little story of two people pining over one another that I absolutely enjoyed.
January 11, 2025
Finally, a chance at love
I was looking for the second book in this series, but noticed this was the first and decided to read it. This was a ntma author and once I got a feel for her writing style I enjoyed it. She tells the story from the pov of both mcs, so kind of back and forth if you will. It was first person when they were talking from their pov. Excuse my technicalities, let me get into the review.
Dimitrius aka Dimi is the head of HR and he is head over heels in love with his boss Brittany, the COO of the company. Now I'm sure that sounds like a huge conflict of interest because it is, but listen he had been pining for her for seven years and his feelings were only getting stronger by the day and in fact he was obsessed.
I enjoyed the way their relationship evolved and the slow way he eased himself into Brittany's heart. This was a Christmas story and the sweet and thoughtful way he secretly gifted her was just everything.
I loved that Dimi was Short King, he was 5'6", fine, and confident. Those inches were made up elsewhere 🤭 His BDE was loud and strong and I loved his dominance.
I will be reading more from this author.
I was looking for the second book in this series, but noticed this was the first and decided to read it. This was a ntma author and once I got a feel for her writing style I enjoyed it. She tells the story from the pov of both mcs, so kind of back and forth if you will. It was first person when they were talking from their pov. Excuse my technicalities, let me get into the review.
Dimitrius aka Dimi is the head of HR and he is head over heels in love with his boss Brittany, the COO of the company. Now I'm sure that sounds like a huge conflict of interest because it is, but listen he had been pining for her for seven years and his feelings were only getting stronger by the day and in fact he was obsessed.
I enjoyed the way their relationship evolved and the slow way he eased himself into Brittany's heart. This was a Christmas story and the sweet and thoughtful way he secretly gifted her was just everything.
I loved that Dimi was Short King, he was 5'6", fine, and confident. Those inches were made up elsewhere 🤭 His BDE was loud and strong and I loved his dominance.
I will be reading more from this author.
December 20, 2025
This was a good read. I don’t recall coming across a book with a shorter MMC than the FMC, and that was interesting to see.
December 9, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
December 17, 2024
Okay Dimi put on for the short kings!! It was giving clinically insane for a second but he definitely redeemed himself! 😂 such a sweet read where both characters felt the same attraction for one another. I would’ve read this in one sitting but life was lifeing. The backdrop of the Christmas season was also the perfect touch!
December 13, 2025
Human Resources
3.75/5 ⭐️
This was the longest, romantic stalking I have ever read about LOL. 🤣🤣 but I enjoyed this read esp after finding out they both had a crush but didn’t want to get in trouble at their place of employment. It was a very different type of read from my first read by Aria Daze( So Thankful). Dimi & Brittany ❤️
3.75/5 ⭐️
This was the longest, romantic stalking I have ever read about LOL. 🤣🤣 but I enjoyed this read esp after finding out they both had a crush but didn’t want to get in trouble at their place of employment. It was a very different type of read from my first read by Aria Daze( So Thankful). Dimi & Brittany ❤️
December 17, 2024
I didn’t think the MMC “stalker” tendencies were cute. 7 years? That’s a bit much. The banter was corny and unrealistic.
November 23, 2024
This was such a cute read. Dimi was not playing about getting Brittany after having the biggest crush on her for seven years. He had a plan to get her attention, and he succeeded. The 12 days of Christmas were filled with thoughtful gifts, and i loved each one. Dimi really studied and understood this woman. Now Dimi was a short king, but he was definitely all man. The whole book I kept thinking about TI's line in ASAP, "5'5 with the soul of a 6 ft ninja," cause Dimi didn't play. Brittany had a crush on him as well but never acted on it. When these two got together, it was instant chemistry. The club scene is probably my favorite from the book. Baby cause Dimi went from being Dimi from HR to BDE Dimi. This book was spicy, but it had some hilarious moments. I ate this book up, and I can't wait to read more from this author.
December 6, 2024
This was PERFECT
This is my first read from Aria Daze and I loved everything about it!!!! It gave all the warm and fuzzy holly jolly vibes I love in a holiday story. Dimi is book bae material. Brit is like my home girl and I just wanted her to have everything she wanted. The mutual pining was *chefs kiss* I ATE IT UP. The intention and the attention Dimi had for the details, LOVED IT. It gave me everything I need from a workplace romance. May we all get kissed under the mistletoe this holiday season.😉😉😉
This is my first read from Aria Daze and I loved everything about it!!!! It gave all the warm and fuzzy holly jolly vibes I love in a holiday story. Dimi is book bae material. Brit is like my home girl and I just wanted her to have everything she wanted. The mutual pining was *chefs kiss* I ATE IT UP. The intention and the attention Dimi had for the details, LOVED IT. It gave me everything I need from a workplace romance. May we all get kissed under the mistletoe this holiday season.😉😉😉
November 23, 2024
I just want to start by saying thank you to Aria Daze for providing me with an Arc of this book. Dimitrius and Brittany were such a cute couple. I love how much Dimitrius paid attention to the different things Brittany likes and got her some of her favorite things for Christmas. I love the chemistry between the couple even with this being only 122 pages. I really enjoyed this book and I can’t wait to reading more books by this author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 6, 2024
Loved it
I love it when both MCs want each other equally, and Brittany and Dimitrius surely wanted each other...no playing coy, no games (other than the secret Santa stuff, which is totally permitted), none of that. It was dope that he was secure in his height nor did it bother her in the least. The formatting could've been better but that didn't detract from my enjoyment at all.
Funny, romantic, hot...loved it.
I love it when both MCs want each other equally, and Brittany and Dimitrius surely wanted each other...no playing coy, no games (other than the secret Santa stuff, which is totally permitted), none of that. It was dope that he was secure in his height nor did it bother her in the least. The formatting could've been better but that didn't detract from my enjoyment at all.
Funny, romantic, hot...loved it.
December 2, 2025
now y'all know i don't even like men fr but dimi? 😭 observant, considerate, thoughtful, type-A, slightly stalkerish, & a soft dom short king with a prayer candle between the thighs. 🗣️ HAND HIM OVER ARIA. giggling, swinging my feet & squeezing my thighs together! what a delicious white christmas! ❄️
November 24, 2024
My girl struck again! Whats for me may not be for you, but let me tell you about my boy dimi aka Dimetrius! He puts the capital p in Pressha without even trying too hard. Sneak in my office and leave me gifts 😍😘 this was such a breath of fresh air with just the right amount of angst and spice.
Aria can right there instructions to open a cereal box and ill read it. Master of character relations if I say so myself!
Aria can right there instructions to open a cereal box and ill read it. Master of character relations if I say so myself!
November 26, 2024
My only complaint was that it was too short. Short, fluffy, christmasy, romantic, perfect MMC? It’s all in this book. The perfect weekend holiday romantic novel to sink into.
December 11, 2025
Don't get me wrong definitely loved everything that Dimi did for my girl, but that was a little creepy lmaoooo and kind of frowned upon in the work place lmaoooooo
December 7, 2024
I swear, Aria has a talent of writing the most unhinged yet lovable men because Dimitrius is *chef’s kiss*. He was down BAD for Brittany and said now was the time to apply PRESSURE. Brittany (and the B stands for Baddie) was so relatable as a goofy and pulled together woman and I was glad to see such a thoughtful and intentional partner come into her life.
This was such a cute holiday short and I hope to get another glimpse of Brit and Dimi in future releases (shoutout to the Marvin & Winifred cameo!)
Many thanks to Aria for the ARC💚
This was such a cute holiday short and I hope to get another glimpse of Brit and Dimi in future releases (shoutout to the Marvin & Winifred cameo!)
Many thanks to Aria for the ARC💚
May 22, 2025
Human Resources: A Happy Holiday Short by Aria Daze is a delightfully delicious holiday romance. Thus far I have read three of her books and typical or normal are not words I would use to describe her MMCs. We met a serial killer/broker, a shy succubus and a grumpy neurodivergent introvert!
Dimitrius Karimi is as near perfection as a man can get: he is charming, educated, respectful and gainfully employed as the head of human resources. In addition, Dimitrius has been enamored with Brittany Barnes for the entire seven years that he has worked for Solei. Brittany is the newly minted COO, established in this position shortly after Marvin Rosenbloom (Candid and Bloom) acquired the company. Brittany and Dimitrius have a warmly cordial working relationship; however, Dimitrius is convinced that now is the time to step out of the professional role he occupies and become much more personal. Readers go with Dimitrius as he enacts his version of the 12 days of Christmas. His antics are fun and sexy, and we see why Brittany is on his list, she is just as engaging as he is. It was also great to get a brief glimpse of Marvin and Winifred. Even though Ms. Daze advertised it as a short story, I wanted MORE (greedy reader ☹). I felt like I knew their parents and would have loved to read the scenes where the couple introduced each other to their families…perhaps we will get a sequel.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/human-...
Dimitrius Karimi is as near perfection as a man can get: he is charming, educated, respectful and gainfully employed as the head of human resources. In addition, Dimitrius has been enamored with Brittany Barnes for the entire seven years that he has worked for Solei. Brittany is the newly minted COO, established in this position shortly after Marvin Rosenbloom (Candid and Bloom) acquired the company. Brittany and Dimitrius have a warmly cordial working relationship; however, Dimitrius is convinced that now is the time to step out of the professional role he occupies and become much more personal. Readers go with Dimitrius as he enacts his version of the 12 days of Christmas. His antics are fun and sexy, and we see why Brittany is on his list, she is just as engaging as he is. It was also great to get a brief glimpse of Marvin and Winifred. Even though Ms. Daze advertised it as a short story, I wanted MORE (greedy reader ☹). I felt like I knew their parents and would have loved to read the scenes where the couple introduced each other to their families…perhaps we will get a sequel.
https://theretiredreader.com/f/human-...
December 6, 2024
This book was short and cute. A perfect holiday black rom com. Normally, the only short men I like are in anime but I'll make an exception for Dimi. He was a great male lead. There was never any games with him. He was a perfect mix of dominant and himbo. The best green flag king. I also really liked Brittany. I thought she was a great female lead. A boss bitch who handled business but was also secretly pining for Dimi.
I loved these two together. They had great chemistry. The mutual pining between then was everything. I especially loved how their reverse height differences was never an issue between each other. Dimi didn't have hangups about being short for a man or the fact that Brittany was tall. She didn't shun Dimi because he was short. They accepted each other as they were and was still heavily attracted to one another.
This book was short(112 pages) but it had the perfect amount of character development, humor, pining, innuendos and workplace shenanigans. Another thing I really loved was the lack of drama and angst in this book or third act breakup. It was truly just a cute lovey dovey rom com novella. I really enjoyed this read. My only complaint is the constant grammatical and editing errors. There were a lot in the book. An editor would be helpful immensely. Besides that, this was a great Christmas read.
I loved these two together. They had great chemistry. The mutual pining between then was everything. I especially loved how their reverse height differences was never an issue between each other. Dimi didn't have hangups about being short for a man or the fact that Brittany was tall. She didn't shun Dimi because he was short. They accepted each other as they were and was still heavily attracted to one another.
This book was short(112 pages) but it had the perfect amount of character development, humor, pining, innuendos and workplace shenanigans. Another thing I really loved was the lack of drama and angst in this book or third act breakup. It was truly just a cute lovey dovey rom com novella. I really enjoyed this read. My only complaint is the constant grammatical and editing errors. There were a lot in the book. An editor would be helpful immensely. Besides that, this was a great Christmas read.
December 17, 2024
3.75⭐️
“I am far from perfect. But I’d like to be the perfect person for you.”
This was fun, short and sweet. It has one of my favourite tropes-office romance. It is an unusual departure from your typical romance and character. In this case, we have a short MMC who knows how to pack the punch. Dimi was goals.
It follows the story of two co-workers who have been pining for each other and they finally let loose at the office Christmas party.
I enjoyed the buildup and the 12 days of Christmas gifts. The Christmas vibes were on point. I love all the characters, who delivered exactly what was expected of them.
There were some tiny errors but that didn’t spoil the fun that was this book. If you are looking for a short Christmas read I highly recommend this.
“I am far from perfect. But I’d like to be the perfect person for you.”
This was fun, short and sweet. It has one of my favourite tropes-office romance. It is an unusual departure from your typical romance and character. In this case, we have a short MMC who knows how to pack the punch. Dimi was goals.
It follows the story of two co-workers who have been pining for each other and they finally let loose at the office Christmas party.
I enjoyed the buildup and the 12 days of Christmas gifts. The Christmas vibes were on point. I love all the characters, who delivered exactly what was expected of them.
There were some tiny errors but that didn’t spoil the fun that was this book. If you are looking for a short Christmas read I highly recommend this.
December 19, 2024
Gawwwwwk
This man s so freaking smooth. He is freaking perfection. This respectful down to buisness professional by day and confidently hot take charge dirty sir by night is everythingto me. I love him. And I love how he respects and worshipes Brittany. He listened to her and it shows. He knows her and just wants to treat her like she deserves. Above all he respects the hell out of this strong bad ass independent boss babe.
While this isn't advertised as plus-sized, there is mention of a big butt and love handles so I'm considering it as such. I do highly appreciate her weight having nothing to do with this story, she's enough to carry this story just as she is.
This book is steamy so hold on tight and let it set the bar higher when it goes to choosing a romantic partner.
This man s so freaking smooth. He is freaking perfection. This respectful down to buisness professional by day and confidently hot take charge dirty sir by night is everythingto me. I love him. And I love how he respects and worshipes Brittany. He listened to her and it shows. He knows her and just wants to treat her like she deserves. Above all he respects the hell out of this strong bad ass independent boss babe.
While this isn't advertised as plus-sized, there is mention of a big butt and love handles so I'm considering it as such. I do highly appreciate her weight having nothing to do with this story, she's enough to carry this story just as she is.
This book is steamy so hold on tight and let it set the bar higher when it goes to choosing a romantic partner.
January 4, 2025
Okay SHORT MEN ARE FUCKING KINGS!!!!! 🫣🫣🫣
I loved this. Quick. Tension packed. Annoyingly cute asf. Black asf. All in all amazing.
Dimi works as a HR for a company and just so happens he has had a crush on his COO for YEARSSSS. And with Christmas time coming around it’s time to shoot his shot!!!’
Brittney always thought her HR rep was that nigga, but never expected nothing from it being he was HR. But when gifts start to appear and clearly someone playing secret Santa she wishes it was from one person and he happens to be off limits.
This was soooooo much of everything. Dimi ain’t come to play once he finally gained the courage it was no slowing him down. He was so subtle tho he didn’t want to over step or scare her off but never once did he let up. Brittney was weak in the knees from day one nothing more to say about her she went and got her man as she should!!!
I loved this. Quick. Tension packed. Annoyingly cute asf. Black asf. All in all amazing.
Dimi works as a HR for a company and just so happens he has had a crush on his COO for YEARSSSS. And with Christmas time coming around it’s time to shoot his shot!!!’
Brittney always thought her HR rep was that nigga, but never expected nothing from it being he was HR. But when gifts start to appear and clearly someone playing secret Santa she wishes it was from one person and he happens to be off limits.
This was soooooo much of everything. Dimi ain’t come to play once he finally gained the courage it was no slowing him down. He was so subtle tho he didn’t want to over step or scare her off but never once did he let up. Brittney was weak in the knees from day one nothing more to say about her she went and got her man as she should!!!
December 11, 2025
"I'd do nearly anything just to enjoy the privilege of your presence.”
Tropes:
Workplace romance
Boss/Employee
Short King MMC
Holiday vibes
Devoted/Obsessed hero
This was such a delightful holiday novella! Dimi has been silently worshipping Brittany for seven years, and when he finally throws the rulebook out the window, the result is hilarious, heartfelt, and yes—a little unhinged. Was I slightly worried about Dimi stalking Brittany and mentally planning their future family tree? Maybe… but fiction gives us permission to enjoy the obsessive MMCs, and Dimi is truly endearing.
This short was fun, festive, and unexpectedly tender. I can’t wait to binge the rest of Ms. Daze’s Happy Holiday shorts for the season!
Tropes:
Workplace romance
Boss/Employee
Short King MMC
Holiday vibes
Devoted/Obsessed hero
This was such a delightful holiday novella! Dimi has been silently worshipping Brittany for seven years, and when he finally throws the rulebook out the window, the result is hilarious, heartfelt, and yes—a little unhinged. Was I slightly worried about Dimi stalking Brittany and mentally planning their future family tree? Maybe… but fiction gives us permission to enjoy the obsessive MMCs, and Dimi is truly endearing.
This short was fun, festive, and unexpectedly tender. I can’t wait to binge the rest of Ms. Daze’s Happy Holiday shorts for the season!
December 6, 2024
Would you ever date your coworker?…Aria just gave us my new favorite Christmas romance novella. This was perfect in my reading eyes. Dimitrius is the Head of HR and he is a man who goes by the book ….usually . Not when it comes to COO,Brittany. The rules don’t apply to Dimitrius and his heart.
It’s time for the company christmas party planning and Dimitrius jumps at the chance to work with Brittnay up close in hopes that she may see him as more than a coworker. With Christmas magic and Dimitrius planning… this is such a beautiful and spicy … oh and funny Christmas story perfect for the season.
It’s time for the company christmas party planning and Dimitrius jumps at the chance to work with Brittnay up close in hopes that she may see him as more than a coworker. With Christmas magic and Dimitrius planning… this is such a beautiful and spicy … oh and funny Christmas story perfect for the season.
December 7, 2024
Dimitrius has been in love with Brittany for years. The problem? He's the head of HR and she is COO of their company. So Dimi has pined in quiet all this time. Until now. He's going to woo and claim his woman so they can finally start their lives together.
I adored these characters that Aria Daze created! Brittany is strong and fierce with a self confidence I can only dream of. Dimi is a soft-dom, short king who knows he can make Brittany happy. Over the two weeks before Christmas his gifts show how well he knows and cares for Brittany. When the holiday party finally arrives, the scene in Brittany's office was insanely hot.
Definitely one of my favorite holiday releases of 2024!
I adored these characters that Aria Daze created! Brittany is strong and fierce with a self confidence I can only dream of. Dimi is a soft-dom, short king who knows he can make Brittany happy. Over the two weeks before Christmas his gifts show how well he knows and cares for Brittany. When the holiday party finally arrives, the scene in Brittany's office was insanely hot.
Definitely one of my favorite holiday releases of 2024!
December 6, 2024
Just Yes!!
For holiday feels, this is a love story done right. Novellas can be hard to develop characters in. You will not be disappointed in this read at all. The characters make sense to themselves (they are ppl too). You never have to question if the actions align with the descriptions. It's a refreshing read over all. I love to be an immersive reader and this story for sure did it. I was smelling Dimi and cackling with Sam over how much Brit is missing.
Just know you'll enjoy it.
For holiday feels, this is a love story done right. Novellas can be hard to develop characters in. You will not be disappointed in this read at all. The characters make sense to themselves (they are ppl too). You never have to question if the actions align with the descriptions. It's a refreshing read over all. I love to be an immersive reader and this story for sure did it. I was smelling Dimi and cackling with Sam over how much Brit is missing.
Just know you'll enjoy it.
December 10, 2024
OMG, Dimitrius Karimi was not playing about our girl Brittany Barnes! 💕 He was determined to make her his girlfriend, and honestly? The man delivered! Attentive, patient, and just… chef’s kiss. 😘
But first, can we talk about the dedication? Shouting out all the short kings—HAHA, I loved it. Short kings matter too! 👑😂
As a fellow HR girlie, the title alone had me curious, and it did not disappoint. This book was cute, cozy, and a perfect little holiday treat. If you’re building a festive TBR, add this one! 🎄📖 Dimitrius & Brittany = holiday magic.
But first, can we talk about the dedication? Shouting out all the short kings—HAHA, I loved it. Short kings matter too! 👑😂
As a fellow HR girlie, the title alone had me curious, and it did not disappoint. This book was cute, cozy, and a perfect little holiday treat. If you’re building a festive TBR, add this one! 🎄📖 Dimitrius & Brittany = holiday magic.
December 3, 2025
loved it
I absolutely loved this book!!! It was so good!!!
Dimitrius and Brittany have loved each other from the first day they met at work but didn’t tell each other because he worked in HR and they didn’t want to lose their jobs.
But when he finally decided to make his move, all his years of watching and learning her likes and dislike, baby it was no going back and I loved reading about how he showed her love!!!
If you have not added the Happy Holiday Shorts Novellas to your TBR you need to!!!
I absolutely loved this book!!! It was so good!!!
Dimitrius and Brittany have loved each other from the first day they met at work but didn’t tell each other because he worked in HR and they didn’t want to lose their jobs.
But when he finally decided to make his move, all his years of watching and learning her likes and dislike, baby it was no going back and I loved reading about how he showed her love!!!
If you have not added the Happy Holiday Shorts Novellas to your TBR you need to!!!
November 26, 2024
Dimitrius is plotting to make Brittany his girlfriend. Brittany likes Dimitrius, but doesn’t like surprises. Can these two coworkers make it work out?
I received this ARC directly from the author in exchange for this review.
Honestly, I loved that this book was mostly told from Dimi’s POV. I liked the banter, and I liked the mix of tropes employed. I thought it was an enjoyable short overall.
If you like Pining, He Fell First, and Secret Admirers, then this is for you.
I received this ARC directly from the author in exchange for this review.
Honestly, I loved that this book was mostly told from Dimi’s POV. I liked the banter, and I liked the mix of tropes employed. I thought it was an enjoyable short overall.
If you like Pining, He Fell First, and Secret Admirers, then this is for you.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 68 reviews