Rhythm of the Hart: An MMM Holiday Novella

by Ryan Ramirez Webb

“Rhythm of the Hart” is a cozy, spicy, small-town holiday romance full of queer love and joy, unapologetically sexy fat men, Star Wars puns, and Pride.

Kieran Hart is the band director and only queer teacher in Redplains, Texas. Under budgetary pressure from a new principal determined to push him out, he’s scrambling to find a way to fund another year for his band. If he can’t find the money by Christmas break, he risks losing the music program altogether. When he sees his ex, Dominic, for the first time in years, his feelings threaten to distract him from his goal.

Dominic Ortiz is back in Redplains near the holidays, but he’s not in the mood to celebrate. He’s inherited his aunt’s grocery store, to the chagrin of his estranged father. He’s determined to sign the store over to his dad and get out of town as quickly as possible. But when he runs into Kieran and sparks fly, he may have a reason to stay. First, he’ll have to stand up to his father and conquer his fear of attachment.

Zach Hudson is Kieran’s assistant director and best friend. He’s also just confirmed he’s queer - by hooking up with Dominic. As he looks at the world through his new perspective, he quickly realizes he has a crush on Dominic… and Kieran.

With all three men caught in each other’s orbit, will the formation of this love triangle throw a wrench in all their lives? Or is there new happiness to be found for all of them together? And can the three of them united find a way to overcome discrimination and save the band by Christmas?

Genres: M M Romance

223 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 6, 2024

Reviews

[Ed Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love the inclusivity of this story. However, I thought the actual story was just ok. There was so much going on that I never really felt a connection with most of it. Zach was just coming out. Kieran was dealing with a homophobic principal. Dom is dealing with his homophobic father as well as his autism. In addition they’re entering into a three person relationship. This was a lot to deal with in 200 pages.

[Casey Ritchie · Rating 5 out of 5]

*ARC Review*

I have read a couple of other MMM Romances this year, but this one was certainly my favorite.

All three MCs in this book each face different challenges throughout the story, and they really show their internal struggles and how they overcome them. The story is well written and was so much fun to read. I couldn't even pick a favorite MC out of the three because they each so unique and so wonderful. The level of spice in this book is great as well. Ryan has done an amazing job with creating these characters and their love story and I cannot wait to read more of his stories in the future.

Very deserving of a 5-star rating. A huge thank you to Ryan for sending me a copy to read and review. I really appreciate you sharing this story with me.

[Jonathan Alder · Rating 5 out of 5]

When I heard this book described as a “Hallmark movie but a lot more gay,” I knew I’d have to check it out, and I’m glad I did!
The story is charming, funny, and insightful. It’s concise and tightly written, which fits with its Hallmark niche. I wasn’t ready for it to end and am already hoping for a sequel!
All three of the main characters feel distinct and fully realized, each with their own quirks and struggles. There’s even a light mystery woven through the plot that adds a satisfying touch of intrigue. Watching how each character navigates their changing circumstances was delightful, even if I selfishly wanted a few more chapters with them. Still, it’s a complete and fulfilling story that’s ideal for readers craving a quick, heartfelt read, pun intended.

[Carly · Rating 5 out of 5]

This holiday novella hit the spot!! I laughed, I cried, it was perfect. I loved all the representation, the banter, the spice, and the Christmas vibes. But what I most enjoyed was the JOY & HOPE this book brought me 🫶🏼

Fave quotes:
❤️ “Crushed it— the experience, not the dick” 😂
❤️”It’s just so random. Like god was playing Th-Th-The Sims”
❤️”If this blows up in my face, at least they’ll have a snack to pair with my bleeding heart”

🎄Found Family
🎄Second Chance
🎄Neurodivergent rep
🎄Queer Awakening
🎄Friends to lovers & hookup to lovers

[Emily Mason · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received this audiobook as an ARC and really enjoyed it! It was my first book by this author, so a big thank you to Ryan Ramirez Webb for sharing his book with me to review!
I haven't read an MMM romance before and really liked all three main characters. There was lovely representation and diversity in the story. The plot was great too and had me rooting for them, I'm so glad they overcame some hardships together and grew in their relationship throughout the story as well.

[Sammy Standing · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a sweet read, I absolutely loved this audiobook from beginning to end. I loved these characters so much and truly did not want this book to end, this book has some really good representation within it and I will definitely need to check out other books by this author.

[Beth · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely Christmas read ! It was a perfect low angst, no miscommunication, light but still spicy book. I loved the characters and how they supported each other.

[Sarah☀️ Somerville · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very sweet. What I particularly liked was Kieran's stuttering: rather than having a million years of speech therapy, he was all "I stutter. You deal with that." Yay!

[Tex Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a Culturally Diverse (in many ways) Holiday Treat