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One Holiday Ever After
The holidays are a time for celebration, discovery, coming home, and maybe even miracles for those who are lucky. From the streets of New York City, to the wintery wonderland of the Maine woods, to the quaint, small town charm of Idaho, the men in these stories have different holiday desires. They’re looking for familiarity or fresh starts, but they have one thing in common—their happily ever afters might be waiting in the last places they think to look. Come see what they unwrap in these stories by three acclaimed authors of male/male romance.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can't stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he's literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak's secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there's one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents' cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin's plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric's holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can't stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he's literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak's secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there's one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents' cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin's plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric's holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
280 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 19, 2014
12 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Tere Michaels
40 books1,024 followersTere Michaels unofficially began her writing career at the age of four when she learned that people got paid to write stories. It seemed the most perfect and logical job in the world and after that, her path was never in question. (The romance writer part was written in the stars—she was born on Valentine’s Day.)
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
It took thirty-six years of “research” and “life experience” and well… life… before her first book was published but there are no regrets (she doesn’t believe in them). Along the way, she had some interesting jobs in television, animation, arts education, PR, and a national magazine—but she never stopped believing she would eventually earn her living writing stories about love.
Her home base is a small town in New Jersey, very near NYC, a city she dearly loves. She shares her life with her husband, her son—who is also her personal trainer—and an exceedingly spoiled cat. Her spare time is spent watching way too much sports programming, going to the movies and for long walks/runs in the park, reading, and doing yoga.
Nothing makes her happier than knowing she made a reader laugh or smile or cry. It’s the purpose of sharing her work with people. She loves hearing from fans and fellow writers and is always available for speaking engagements, visits, and workshops. Send her a message through her contact page or connect with her on Instagram (@TereMichaels) and Facebook.
She teaches regularly at SavvyAuthors, as well as running a private consulting and developmental editing business.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
December 22, 2014
Loved this anthology! Some of the best holiday stories that I've read this year.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels- 4 stars
My favorite Tere Michaels story to date! Light, sweet, and romantic, this will be a win with almost every reader.
I adored this little story about two cute guys trying to make it on their own in their chosen professions. It took place in my neck of the woods (New York City) during Christmas season (snuggly and cheerful, check!), so I was pretty much guaranteed to love it. However, Tere Michaels really went above and beyond with this one. Though the plot was a little... sparse, the guys were so adorable that I didn't mind any other flaws.
The best part of this story was the banter. These guys flirted mercilessly with each other, and I loved every second of it! Tere's sense of humor came right through: This was a super funny, lighthearted read.
An easy win.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee- 2.5 stars
I'm going to be honest here... this story really bored me.
I'm not exactly sure why I struggled so much with this one. I think part of it was that the set up seemed really implausible. It is very insta-y, where the guys are sort of all in at first sight. I also thought it was strange that Christ flirted with Paul right off the bat. If I was a stranded guy being rescued by a man in the wilderness, I would be a whole hell of a lot more cautious, let me tell you. In general, I would have liked these guys to have slow played it. I like more gradual buildup, especially in a forced type setting.
I also found something about the writing to be stilted. It felt a bit unnatural, maybe too overworked. I thought that the language was sort of beautiful and very deliberate, but, at the same time, I had a lot of trouble getting immersed in the story.
Finally, the plot was a bit dull for me. Not much happened to these guys. It was hard to keep my attention going and I found myself eager for the next one in the collection.
While this story was sweet and I don't want to turn readers away from it, I think it just wasn't to my tastes.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis- 4.5 stars
I sort of adored this, even with no sex on page!
Woah, I can't believe I've never read Elizah Davis before! Her story rocked the house! It was short but felt complete, and it had a nice, slow-burn buildup. It was sort of about finding oneself but it never felt pushy or preachy. I loved the way the author made the story light and funny, while still giving it some emotional umph.
My favorite quote in the whole anthology?
"You're bi?" Gavin asked. As though it might be some sort of trick.
"I am."
"You've slept with other men?"
"Yes. I am a certified, practicing bisexual."
"Wow." Gavin ran his hands through his hair. "I just keep making it worse, don't I?"
"Don't worry about it. I renewed my license again this summer. You don't want to let that puppy expire, because your sexuality defaults based on the last person you were with. Then you have to go through the application process again, and you have to wait six to eight weeks for approval."
Loved it! Can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels- 4 stars
My favorite Tere Michaels story to date! Light, sweet, and romantic, this will be a win with almost every reader.
I adored this little story about two cute guys trying to make it on their own in their chosen professions. It took place in my neck of the woods (New York City) during Christmas season (snuggly and cheerful, check!), so I was pretty much guaranteed to love it. However, Tere Michaels really went above and beyond with this one. Though the plot was a little... sparse, the guys were so adorable that I didn't mind any other flaws.
The best part of this story was the banter. These guys flirted mercilessly with each other, and I loved every second of it! Tere's sense of humor came right through: This was a super funny, lighthearted read.
An easy win.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee- 2.5 stars
I'm going to be honest here... this story really bored me.
I'm not exactly sure why I struggled so much with this one. I think part of it was that the set up seemed really implausible. It is very insta-y, where the guys are sort of all in at first sight. I also thought it was strange that Christ flirted with Paul right off the bat. If I was a stranded guy being rescued by a man in the wilderness, I would be a whole hell of a lot more cautious, let me tell you. In general, I would have liked these guys to have slow played it. I like more gradual buildup, especially in a forced type setting.
I also found something about the writing to be stilted. It felt a bit unnatural, maybe too overworked. I thought that the language was sort of beautiful and very deliberate, but, at the same time, I had a lot of trouble getting immersed in the story.
Finally, the plot was a bit dull for me. Not much happened to these guys. It was hard to keep my attention going and I found myself eager for the next one in the collection.
While this story was sweet and I don't want to turn readers away from it, I think it just wasn't to my tastes.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis- 4.5 stars
I sort of adored this, even with no sex on page!
Woah, I can't believe I've never read Elizah Davis before! Her story rocked the house! It was short but felt complete, and it had a nice, slow-burn buildup. It was sort of about finding oneself but it never felt pushy or preachy. I loved the way the author made the story light and funny, while still giving it some emotional umph.
My favorite quote in the whole anthology?
"You're bi?" Gavin asked. As though it might be some sort of trick.
"I am."
"You've slept with other men?"
"Yes. I am a certified, practicing bisexual."
"Wow." Gavin ran his hands through his hair. "I just keep making it worse, don't I?"
"Don't worry about it. I renewed my license again this summer. You don't want to let that puppy expire, because your sexuality defaults based on the last person you were with. Then you have to go through the application process again, and you have to wait six to eight weeks for approval."
Loved it! Can't wait to read more from this author in the future.
**Copy provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review**
December 23, 2019
**** 3.5 stars ****
I read the first and last of the three stories, and skipped the middle one based on reviews. The two I did read were excellent little holiday shorts, engaging and intrinsically upbeat. See the blurb for good capsule summaries of each.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels was longer and more substantial, following the MCs over the course of the entire winter holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year's Eve. I could feel the chemistry between Nate and Sean, and appreciated how each inspired the other to stretch and grow and see new possibilities in life. There were a couple of story elements I normally prefer to avoid (theatrical productions, adult children still being dependent on their birth family), but I was swept up by the vibrancy and charm of the writing, so these usual issues were non-issues. I definitely want to read more by Michaels.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis was shorter and lighter and angst-free. Gavin and Eric aren't consumed by some larger-than-life grand passion; their romance progresses more along a spectrum of increasing degrees of "Hey, I really like this guy." Don't get me wrong, I love the LTL grand passion stuff (when it's done well), but I don't want a non-stop diet of it, and I enjoyed watching an easy, natural rapport develop between these guys. Plus, their banter was top-notch. Davis also goes on my list of authors to read more of.
I feel guilty for skipping the story by Elle Brownlee, but there are only so many holiday stories I can stomach in one year, and I've hit my limit. I'm attempting to assuage my guilt by telling myself I can always come back and read it next year. In the meantime, I can recommend the two I did read to anyone looking for well-written holiday stories that are neither sappy nor angsty.
I read the first and last of the three stories, and skipped the middle one based on reviews. The two I did read were excellent little holiday shorts, engaging and intrinsically upbeat. See the blurb for good capsule summaries of each.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels was longer and more substantial, following the MCs over the course of the entire winter holiday season from Thanksgiving to New Year's Eve. I could feel the chemistry between Nate and Sean, and appreciated how each inspired the other to stretch and grow and see new possibilities in life. There were a couple of story elements I normally prefer to avoid (theatrical productions, adult children still being dependent on their birth family), but I was swept up by the vibrancy and charm of the writing, so these usual issues were non-issues. I definitely want to read more by Michaels.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis was shorter and lighter and angst-free. Gavin and Eric aren't consumed by some larger-than-life grand passion; their romance progresses more along a spectrum of increasing degrees of "Hey, I really like this guy." Don't get me wrong, I love the LTL grand passion stuff (when it's done well), but I don't want a non-stop diet of it, and I enjoyed watching an easy, natural rapport develop between these guys. Plus, their banter was top-notch. Davis also goes on my list of authors to read more of.
I feel guilty for skipping the story by Elle Brownlee, but there are only so many holiday stories I can stomach in one year, and I've hit my limit. I'm attempting to assuage my guilt by telling myself I can always come back and read it next year. In the meantime, I can recommend the two I did read to anyone looking for well-written holiday stories that are neither sappy nor angsty.
November 19, 2015
I wanted to like this anthology a lot more than I actually did. Looking back, I still want to like this anthology a lot more than I did. But even though all the tales are relatively sweet, enjoyable holiday reads, there seemed to be some things lacking.
The first story, "Holiday Roommates" by Tere Michaels, was my favorite. Nate and Sean were both adorable, likable characters and there was a minimum of fuss and angst. Michaels has a way with humor, as well, and I found myself chuckling at several scenes, most especially the regular references to Santa's reinforced chair.
The second story, "Holiday Sanctuary" by Elle Brownlee, was my least favorite. The premise was promising and the characters had potential, but Brownlee's writing style left me a little bewildered. There were references and dialogue exchanges that made little-to-no-sense to the reader, and that really detracted from my enjoyment of the story. I couldn't immerse myself because half the time I had no idea what Paul and Chris were even talking about. The constant POV switches became confusing, and it seemed they were even confusing for Brownlee, as evidenced by this sentence:
"He turned to Paul and smiled, a smile Chris took as permission to pull them into a kiss."
Chris took his own smile as permission to pull them into a kiss???
It sort of felt like the author phoned this one in, and that never makes for enjoyable reading.
Last but no least, "Holiday Homecoming" by Elizah J. Davis. A genuinely enjoyable tale, good characters, decent humor, and sweet romance. Not as engaging as the Tere Michaels story, but leaps and bounds more engaging than the Brownlee tale.
The steam factor on this is overall fairly low. The Tere Michaels story has a medium steam factor while the other two stories have low.
The first story, "Holiday Roommates" by Tere Michaels, was my favorite. Nate and Sean were both adorable, likable characters and there was a minimum of fuss and angst. Michaels has a way with humor, as well, and I found myself chuckling at several scenes, most especially the regular references to Santa's reinforced chair.
The second story, "Holiday Sanctuary" by Elle Brownlee, was my least favorite. The premise was promising and the characters had potential, but Brownlee's writing style left me a little bewildered. There were references and dialogue exchanges that made little-to-no-sense to the reader, and that really detracted from my enjoyment of the story. I couldn't immerse myself because half the time I had no idea what Paul and Chris were even talking about. The constant POV switches became confusing, and it seemed they were even confusing for Brownlee, as evidenced by this sentence:
"He turned to Paul and smiled, a smile Chris took as permission to pull them into a kiss."
Chris took his own smile as permission to pull them into a kiss???
It sort of felt like the author phoned this one in, and that never makes for enjoyable reading.
Last but no least, "Holiday Homecoming" by Elizah J. Davis. A genuinely enjoyable tale, good characters, decent humor, and sweet romance. Not as engaging as the Tere Michaels story, but leaps and bounds more engaging than the Brownlee tale.
The steam factor on this is overall fairly low. The Tere Michaels story has a medium steam factor while the other two stories have low.
December 11, 2019
4.5 stars
Tere Michaels -- 4.5
Holiday Roommates was a fun, light and satisfying holiday romance!
Elle Brownlee -- 3.5
Although this was a cute winter/Christmas romance, I didn't click with the characters that well and found the dialogue somewhat awkward.
Elizah Davis -- 4.5
Wow!! This was a very pleasant surprise and had all of the necessary elements for a heartwarming Christmas love story. Pretty much guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face!
Tere Michaels -- 4.5
Holiday Roommates was a fun, light and satisfying holiday romance!
Elle Brownlee -- 3.5
Although this was a cute winter/Christmas romance, I didn't click with the characters that well and found the dialogue somewhat awkward.
Elizah Davis -- 4.5
Wow!! This was a very pleasant surprise and had all of the necessary elements for a heartwarming Christmas love story. Pretty much guaranteed to leave you with a smile on your face!
January 11, 2015
What a great little anthology. All three are very strong stories and I’m giving the Anthology 4 Stars
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels 4.5 Stars
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can’t stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
This was my favourite story in the collection. Sean is desperate to make sure a department show Christmas show he’s producing is a hit. Nate, a former child star, is desperate for a job so he can hold onto his apartment. He’s a performer though and a damn good one having worked since a very young age. Sean recognizes his talent and Nate is given the starring role in the production after their singer bails. These two guys getting to know each other was so sexy and fun. I loved them and I smiled a lot reading this one.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee 3.5 Stars
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he’s literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak’s secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there’s one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
It took me a while to get into one. I’d say the second half of this read was stronger than the first but it ended really strong. Chris needs shelter when a blizzard hits during his hike. He lucks out when he runs across Paul’s cabin in the woods. This was cute with an intriguing storyline and I loved the ending.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis 4 Stars
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents’ cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin’s plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric’s holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
This was really adorable but the sweetness was tempered with quite a few emotional moments as Gavin was trying to come to terms with his successes and failures as a writer. I liked these men. Eric, who drew people to him, and Gavin, just trying to figure things out.
I have to say how much I loved Eric’s friend Katie. Loved her! So very funny and every time she and Eric talked I found myself laughing. Great dialogue. The bisexual conversation between Gavin and Eric was PRICELESS. This was a fun read but also a contemplative one and I enjoyed that disparity.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels 4.5 Stars
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can’t stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
This was my favourite story in the collection. Sean is desperate to make sure a department show Christmas show he’s producing is a hit. Nate, a former child star, is desperate for a job so he can hold onto his apartment. He’s a performer though and a damn good one having worked since a very young age. Sean recognizes his talent and Nate is given the starring role in the production after their singer bails. These two guys getting to know each other was so sexy and fun. I loved them and I smiled a lot reading this one.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee 3.5 Stars
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he’s literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak’s secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there’s one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
It took me a while to get into one. I’d say the second half of this read was stronger than the first but it ended really strong. Chris needs shelter when a blizzard hits during his hike. He lucks out when he runs across Paul’s cabin in the woods. This was cute with an intriguing storyline and I loved the ending.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis 4 Stars
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents’ cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin’s plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric’s holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
This was really adorable but the sweetness was tempered with quite a few emotional moments as Gavin was trying to come to terms with his successes and failures as a writer. I liked these men. Eric, who drew people to him, and Gavin, just trying to figure things out.
I have to say how much I loved Eric’s friend Katie. Loved her! So very funny and every time she and Eric talked I found myself laughing. Great dialogue. The bisexual conversation between Gavin and Eric was PRICELESS. This was a fun read but also a contemplative one and I enjoyed that disparity.
January 7, 2015
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 5 stars
My favorite of the anthology. Very heartwarming and full of great moments. Favorite line, "Does it matter?" :)
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels - 4 stars
sweet and light Christmas story
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 3 stars
My favorite of the anthology. Very heartwarming and full of great moments. Favorite line, "Does it matter?" :)
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels - 4 stars
sweet and light Christmas story
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 3 stars
January 1, 2021
I loved this cute sweet love story. When you are trying to figure life out, it makes it even more special when you find someone to take the journey with you. I like how the main characters were not jaded by the bad things that had occurred in their lives, just cautious. Opening yourself up to love does not mean you will get burned.
July 18, 2017
Review Coming
February 3, 2015
1) 3.5 starts for "Holiday Roommates" by Tere Michaels
- cute, fluffy and low angst sotry
- really enjoined the MC's, especially Nate
2) "Holiday Sanctuary" by Elle Brownlee
NO!!!
I really did try, but NO! (not gonna rate it cause I only read 5 pages)
3)4 stars "Holiday Homecoming" by Elizah J. Davis
Wow! I really liked this one! Both of the MCs were wonderful, but Eric just cracked me up! He was so witty, funny and adorable I just wanted to squeeze him!
Absolute favorite quote:
Final verdict (I'll just disregard the second story)
3.7 stars!
- cute, fluffy and low angst sotry
- really enjoined the MC's, especially Nate
2) "Holiday Sanctuary" by Elle Brownlee
NO!!!
I really did try, but NO! (not gonna rate it cause I only read 5 pages)
3)4 stars "Holiday Homecoming" by Elizah J. Davis
Wow! I really liked this one! Both of the MCs were wonderful, but Eric just cracked me up! He was so witty, funny and adorable I just wanted to squeeze him!
Absolute favorite quote:
“You’re bi?” Gavin asked. As though it might be some sort of trick.
[..]
“Don’t worry about it. I renewed my license this summer. You don’t want to let that puppy expire, because your sexuality defaults based on the last person you were with. Then you have to go through the application process again, and you have to wait six to eight weeks for approval.” He shook his head. “That’s one of the dirty little secrets they never tell you about being bi. All the bureaucracy that’s involved.” - Eric
Final verdict (I'll just disregard the second story)
3.7 stars!
October 24, 2019
Tere Michaels 4 stars
Elle Brownlee 3 stars
Elizah J. Davies 3.5 stars
All in all a lovely holiday read
Elle Brownlee 3 stars
Elizah J. Davies 3.5 stars
All in all a lovely holiday read
December 27, 2015
One of the best Xmas anthologies I have read!
January 5, 2020
After finishing the previous book I knew there is something I needed to do - Add EVERYTHING by Elle and Elizah to my reading list (the books I have left from Tere's booklist are already scheduled for the near future). As both authors don't have a lot of published work I'll be finishing their books in the near future. Actually already started! I have just one more full length novel by Elizah I'll be delving into this month. Elle's books won't be left for long as well!
For me the first and third novellas were simply superb! For some reason I struggled a bit with the second one though I did like it, I didn't LOVE it like I did the other two. Nevertheless, great anthology !
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels ★★★★★
What a sweet novella, not I've got to say, it almost felt like a full novel. I feel like we got to know the MC quite well, totally got "their story" as well as a relationship buildup that if it was rushed is was because of the amount of time they spend together in one month. Nate isn't great with mathematics but he also realized what they shared amounted to a ton of dates even if none was labeled as one.
Nate Brandywine is an aspiring actor. With his lean and rather small physique he doesn't get a lot of offers and now, around the holidays he can't say no to "acting" as an elf in a Christmas themed production in a new store in town. He needs the money! His roommate disappeared leaving not only a whole shaped TV in the living room, but also the possibility of Nate paying rent and actually keeping the apartment when December is over. So he takes the job and prays for the best..
Sean Callahan is the producer of the "show" in the department store. He too isn't thrilled by the job but he has no choice, as he too, is in a VERY tight space financially as well as physically - renting basically a room (without even a shower) in an apartment that is too far from the department store to allow ANY breathing space.
The connection between the too is almost instant even if Sean is been a bit difficult. But it doesn't take long for both to realize December is trying both of them. Without even knowing the full story Nate offers Sean to come live in his (now) spare bedroom so at least the commute won't be this horrible for him and from there, spending time together at the apartment, spending time together at the department store the friendship feels natural, yet the sexual tension becomes unbearable.
There is something between comical and magical about the production in the department store. Everyone with their place. Santa with his wife, the elves, and the band playing in the background with Nate as the singer. That's how friendships are born and opportunities with it. For both Nate and Sean on their on but also together.
There is actually quite a lot going on in this one but I prefer to stop here. The holiday are over currently, but if you miss it, grab this one, it's totally worth it :)
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee ★★★★
While I'm not really sure why, I had a hard time connection with this story. I liked the idea of it, Chris Declan getting lost in the storm finding Paul Pak's cabin in the middle of no-where and staying there with him for more than just the roads being cleared. But somehow the interaction between them felt a bit staged, or rather too smooth and perfect. I don't think they had one argument or disagreement. Everything went too much according to plans.
They spent every minute together, and while they come from very different world - Paul being a professor focusing on birds, trying to save an endangered specie. Living in small cabin with enough to sustain him but not an inch more. Chris being a programmer who lacks nothing in his life - besides purpose and maybe a man by his side. Someone to come home to, someone to share his life with.
They find everything they could have wanted and never dared to ask in each other. They got along beautifully with the addition of Paul's cat. but once the storm is over Chris needs to make some decisions, ones he was burdened with when he first started this trek in the snowy mountains.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis ★★★★★
Through everything I've read by Elizah by now (meaning, everything except a full length novel I'll be delving into shortly!) I simply ADORE her writing. I should have read this (and the previous) anthology AGES ago and gotten to know Elizah sooner rather than later!
It took 14 years for Gavin Anderson to finally make his dream come true. Well, almost, come true. When he was all ready the project was dropped and going to his apartment filled with 20 year olds in a midst of a party he had no interest in made things even worse. So he packs his stuff in three boxes (how sad is that?) and drove home to the tiny town he was born and raised in.
He knew his parents were away visiting his sister, so he hoped for a little time off to himself to think things through. What he didn't expect - the kid "looking after" his home. A fine looking one but more importantly a really sweet and caring guy and even though Gavin was a bit obnoxious to him at first, he didn't sweat it, and certainly didn't take Gavin's mood to heart.
Eric Nichols finally accepted the offer of his best friend from college to come to her tiny town to open a cafe together. But before he actually accepts he needs to at least visit for a bit and see if it can work for him. When he has the opportunity to live in the Andersons' house he jumps on the offer.
Eric is an absolute sweet heart. It's no wonder Gavin fell in his charm (and later on, fell for him!). He is nice, polite, considerate, a good listener and more over GREAT with giving advice. It doesn't take long for him to have a conversation with Gavin and make him realize he might be spending too much time on the wrong profession.
In the midst of all this we have Christmas vibes all over the place and even though Gavin tries to act like he isn't into the holiday in the end he realizes it's an act even he doesn't believe in anymore. So enjoying the holidays, enjoying each other's company they both want more and sometimes the right excuse is all it takes.
More Reviews HERE
For me the first and third novellas were simply superb! For some reason I struggled a bit with the second one though I did like it, I didn't LOVE it like I did the other two. Nevertheless, great anthology !
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels ★★★★★
What a sweet novella, not I've got to say, it almost felt like a full novel. I feel like we got to know the MC quite well, totally got "their story" as well as a relationship buildup that if it was rushed is was because of the amount of time they spend together in one month. Nate isn't great with mathematics but he also realized what they shared amounted to a ton of dates even if none was labeled as one.
Nate Brandywine is an aspiring actor. With his lean and rather small physique he doesn't get a lot of offers and now, around the holidays he can't say no to "acting" as an elf in a Christmas themed production in a new store in town. He needs the money! His roommate disappeared leaving not only a whole shaped TV in the living room, but also the possibility of Nate paying rent and actually keeping the apartment when December is over. So he takes the job and prays for the best..
Sean Callahan is the producer of the "show" in the department store. He too isn't thrilled by the job but he has no choice, as he too, is in a VERY tight space financially as well as physically - renting basically a room (without even a shower) in an apartment that is too far from the department store to allow ANY breathing space.
The connection between the too is almost instant even if Sean is been a bit difficult. But it doesn't take long for both to realize December is trying both of them. Without even knowing the full story Nate offers Sean to come live in his (now) spare bedroom so at least the commute won't be this horrible for him and from there, spending time together at the apartment, spending time together at the department store the friendship feels natural, yet the sexual tension becomes unbearable.
There is something between comical and magical about the production in the department store. Everyone with their place. Santa with his wife, the elves, and the band playing in the background with Nate as the singer. That's how friendships are born and opportunities with it. For both Nate and Sean on their on but also together.
There is actually quite a lot going on in this one but I prefer to stop here. The holiday are over currently, but if you miss it, grab this one, it's totally worth it :)
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee ★★★★
While I'm not really sure why, I had a hard time connection with this story. I liked the idea of it, Chris Declan getting lost in the storm finding Paul Pak's cabin in the middle of no-where and staying there with him for more than just the roads being cleared. But somehow the interaction between them felt a bit staged, or rather too smooth and perfect. I don't think they had one argument or disagreement. Everything went too much according to plans.
They spent every minute together, and while they come from very different world - Paul being a professor focusing on birds, trying to save an endangered specie. Living in small cabin with enough to sustain him but not an inch more. Chris being a programmer who lacks nothing in his life - besides purpose and maybe a man by his side. Someone to come home to, someone to share his life with.
They find everything they could have wanted and never dared to ask in each other. They got along beautifully with the addition of Paul's cat. but once the storm is over Chris needs to make some decisions, ones he was burdened with when he first started this trek in the snowy mountains.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis ★★★★★
Through everything I've read by Elizah by now (meaning, everything except a full length novel I'll be delving into shortly!) I simply ADORE her writing. I should have read this (and the previous) anthology AGES ago and gotten to know Elizah sooner rather than later!
It took 14 years for Gavin Anderson to finally make his dream come true. Well, almost, come true. When he was all ready the project was dropped and going to his apartment filled with 20 year olds in a midst of a party he had no interest in made things even worse. So he packs his stuff in three boxes (how sad is that?) and drove home to the tiny town he was born and raised in.
He knew his parents were away visiting his sister, so he hoped for a little time off to himself to think things through. What he didn't expect - the kid "looking after" his home. A fine looking one but more importantly a really sweet and caring guy and even though Gavin was a bit obnoxious to him at first, he didn't sweat it, and certainly didn't take Gavin's mood to heart.
Eric Nichols finally accepted the offer of his best friend from college to come to her tiny town to open a cafe together. But before he actually accepts he needs to at least visit for a bit and see if it can work for him. When he has the opportunity to live in the Andersons' house he jumps on the offer.
Eric is an absolute sweet heart. It's no wonder Gavin fell in his charm (and later on, fell for him!). He is nice, polite, considerate, a good listener and more over GREAT with giving advice. It doesn't take long for him to have a conversation with Gavin and make him realize he might be spending too much time on the wrong profession.
In the midst of all this we have Christmas vibes all over the place and even though Gavin tries to act like he isn't into the holiday in the end he realizes it's an act even he doesn't believe in anymore. So enjoying the holidays, enjoying each other's company they both want more and sometimes the right excuse is all it takes.
More Reviews HERE
December 20, 2015
Nate, a former Broadway performer now struggling actor is forced to take a job singing in a clothes store in a Jack Frost costume during the Christmas holidays to pay his rent for January. The event manager in charge of the production, Sean, is not better off. He relies on a loan from his father who wants to see his son fail and return to the family business in Philadelphia.
So Nate and Sean get to know each other and decide to live together to save costs. Just holiday roommates. Roommates with benefits, maybe.
Of course, things fall into place nicely for every single character in this story. It's a sweet Christmas story with no surprises and a set of cute characters right out of the streets of New York on a stressful December day.
So Nate and Sean get to know each other and decide to live together to save costs. Just holiday roommates. Roommates with benefits, maybe.
Of course, things fall into place nicely for every single character in this story. It's a sweet Christmas story with no surprises and a set of cute characters right out of the streets of New York on a stressful December day.
December 27, 2014
This contemporary holiday M/M romance features three excellent novellas. Each story is well-developed with delicious characters and no cliffhangers. It's a fantastic read with lots of love, laughs and heat.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels features a blossoming romance between a snarky actor and an overwhelmed, over-extended production manager.
Nathaniel had reached rock bottom. Despite his long career in acting, and his BFA in Theater from Yale, he's out of work. Well, he's got a job but it sucks. He's an elf in a live do-wap Christmas production marking the grand opening of the La Kiss department store in NYC. He's one month from eviction on his apartment and in his own words:
Sean owes his dad a lot of money. He didn't want to go into the soul-sucking venture capital firm his father owns, so he borrowed cash to start a theater production company. Having few contacts and fewer bookings, he's grasping for anything--and that includes begging his former boyfriend for a favor--which is how he got the gig producing La Kiss' Holiday Spectacular. Of course, if it flops, he's never going to have the cash to pay back Daddy Dearest, and as it stands his margin is so thin he's rented a room to sleep in from a family in Bensonhurst. The commute to Manhattan is sapping his fleeting resources and hours of sleep.
Then, the star of the show--Nate--offers him a bedroom in his apartment...
It's a super fun read where these boys find love, acceptance and "family" where they least expect it.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee has two mature men trapped in a Maine cabin in the midst of a Christmas blizzard.
Paul has a doctorate in ornithology and his research has saved birds species from endangerment. He's a solitary man, loving the solitude of his remote cabin, but he's not averse to helping a stranger in need. Especially a strapping bear of a man who turns up as the snow tumbles down. Chris is out on a nature-challenge when the blizzard begins. Seeking shelter, he'd never anticipated finding more than a warm hearth--bunking in with Paul is hotter than he could have imagined.
The bond that develops between them is far stronger than they anticipate, and each man finds the black out conditions allows for a welcome intimacy, one they are loathe to abandon, even when the plows arrive. It's a steamer, with copious feels and smoking smexytimes.
Hoilday Homecoming by Elizah J Davis is an unexpected romance between a man and the house-sitter he finds irresistible.
After a decade of campaigning, shmoozing and networking, Gavin has given up his dream of having his TV show produced. He leaves LA, for good, and drives to his parents home in remote Bonabri, Idaho hoping to catch them before they depart to Christmas vacationing at his sister's home. Unfortunately, they left early and Eric is the person who freaks out at Gavin's 2am arrival.
Eric isn't sure if he's going to stay in Idaho--his BFF from college, Katie--has pestered him to visit, since, well, forever. She want's to open a cafe, with Eric's help, but the advent of Gavin has him reconsidering his usefulness as a house sitter now that the homeowner's son is home. Yet, the men hit it off, and their friendship advances to one with benefits. And then some...
It's a super fun read with a heartwarming plot.
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels features a blossoming romance between a snarky actor and an overwhelmed, over-extended production manager.
Nathaniel had reached rock bottom. Despite his long career in acting, and his BFA in Theater from Yale, he's out of work. Well, he's got a job but it sucks. He's an elf in a live do-wap Christmas production marking the grand opening of the La Kiss department store in NYC. He's one month from eviction on his apartment and in his own words:
Facing eviction from your beloved apartment--and possibly having to move in with your mother and take her back as your manager--was enough to convince a man to take any role. Any role. If his penis were bigger he would have considered porn.
Sean owes his dad a lot of money. He didn't want to go into the soul-sucking venture capital firm his father owns, so he borrowed cash to start a theater production company. Having few contacts and fewer bookings, he's grasping for anything--and that includes begging his former boyfriend for a favor--which is how he got the gig producing La Kiss' Holiday Spectacular. Of course, if it flops, he's never going to have the cash to pay back Daddy Dearest, and as it stands his margin is so thin he's rented a room to sleep in from a family in Bensonhurst. The commute to Manhattan is sapping his fleeting resources and hours of sleep.
Then, the star of the show--Nate--offers him a bedroom in his apartment...
The rent money would be almost the same as the cost of cabs and food eaten on the go--not to mention the fact that this would add literal hours to the time Sean could spend sleeping. It was all so reasonable and helpful and...
"I'm gay," Sean said suddenly, interrupting Nate's description of the room he'd potentially be renting.
Nate stopped, nodded. "Right, I knew that."
"And that isn't a problem?"
"Why, are you concerned you're doing it wrong?"
Sean sputtered out a laugh. "I'm actually Very good at it."
Nate rolled his eyes. "Funny enough, so am I. Is that a yes?"
It's a super fun read where these boys find love, acceptance and "family" where they least expect it.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee has two mature men trapped in a Maine cabin in the midst of a Christmas blizzard.
Paul has a doctorate in ornithology and his research has saved birds species from endangerment. He's a solitary man, loving the solitude of his remote cabin, but he's not averse to helping a stranger in need. Especially a strapping bear of a man who turns up as the snow tumbles down. Chris is out on a nature-challenge when the blizzard begins. Seeking shelter, he'd never anticipated finding more than a warm hearth--bunking in with Paul is hotter than he could have imagined.
The bond that develops between them is far stronger than they anticipate, and each man finds the black out conditions allows for a welcome intimacy, one they are loathe to abandon, even when the plows arrive. It's a steamer, with copious feels and smoking smexytimes.
Hoilday Homecoming by Elizah J Davis is an unexpected romance between a man and the house-sitter he finds irresistible.
After a decade of campaigning, shmoozing and networking, Gavin has given up his dream of having his TV show produced. He leaves LA, for good, and drives to his parents home in remote Bonabri, Idaho hoping to catch them before they depart to Christmas vacationing at his sister's home. Unfortunately, they left early and Eric is the person who freaks out at Gavin's 2am arrival.
"Looks like they are still home," Gavin said when the house creaked overhead. He scratched under Whiskey's chin and waited, expecting the light to come on with each creak of the stairs. When it didn't, he crept into the living room, toward the staircase, intending to switch on the light and startled his dad, who'd likely been the one sent to investigate. He secured Whiskey in one arm and darted at the light switch, flipping it on and turning to the stairs to shout, "Aha!"
"Aahhh!" The guy on the stairs yelled and then slid down several steps until he landed on his ass with a thump.
"Shit!" Gavin jumped back, because the guy on the stairs was not his dad.
Eric isn't sure if he's going to stay in Idaho--his BFF from college, Katie--has pestered him to visit, since, well, forever. She want's to open a cafe, with Eric's help, but the advent of Gavin has him reconsidering his usefulness as a house sitter now that the homeowner's son is home. Yet, the men hit it off, and their friendship advances to one with benefits. And then some...
"Gavin?"
"Yeah?"
"Are you asking me to be your boyfriend?" Eric's eyes were twinkling, dammit, and Gavin realized he was trying not to laugh.
"Did I not actually say that part out loud?"
Eric shook his head.
It's a super fun read with a heartwarming plot.
January 11, 2018
Really loved all three of these stories!
January 26, 2015
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can't stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
Review
This is a very cute, sweet, light holiday romance about two “roomies” who find they have a lot in common. They spend a lot of time flirting and the dialog is what makes this story so great. Tere Michaels is an excellent writer and her sense of humor really shines in this one. (A nice light read after the much darker Who Knows the Storm). I especially loved the parts where Nate is promoted over and over in his store production Christmas show – really funny!
4 of 5 hearts
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he's literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak's secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there's one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
Review
Chris ends up finding shelter in Paul’s cabin and the two end up “falling in love”. This is one of those stories where you will either really love the “insta-love” or be frustrated by it. Since it’s a holiday story – I let my disbelief go and found it charming. I didn’t think the writing was as good as Tere Michaels’ story, but it was still a pretty good offering.
3 of 5 hearts.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents' cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin's plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric's holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
Gavin ends up falling for Eric, the housesitter. There is no sex in this story but lots of funny lines, and warm feelings. I was really enjoying this, but was a little bewildered by the abrupt ending, though it generally left me with a strong feeling that these boys were going to make it.
4 of 5 stars
As an actor without prospects, Nate Brandywine needs an emergency roommate for the month of December. During a humiliating gig as a Christmas elf at a NYC department store, he meets Sean Callahan, his producer and a man struggling under the weight of a past-due loan. Sean’s desperate for a place to stay in the city for a few weeks. A month of sharing a workplace and an apartment with someone you can't stop flirting with? Maybe the holidays won’t be so terrible after all.
Review
This is a very cute, sweet, light holiday romance about two “roomies” who find they have a lot in common. They spend a lot of time flirting and the dialog is what makes this story so great. Tere Michaels is an excellent writer and her sense of humor really shines in this one. (A nice light read after the much darker Who Knows the Storm). I especially loved the parts where Nate is promoted over and over in his store production Christmas show – really funny!
4 of 5 hearts
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee
Chris Declan is trekking through the wintry wonderland of rural Maine, searching for inspiration and himself, when he's literally and figuratively taken by storm. First by the surprise blizzard that finds him seeking refuge in Paul Bak's secluded cabin, and second by Paul. Making the best of being snowed in together soon becomes a comfortable friendship with fireside chats, a quaint holiday celebration, and more. But despite their growing closeness, there's one thing they avoid—what will happen when the snow clears and the holidays end.
Review
Chris ends up finding shelter in Paul’s cabin and the two end up “falling in love”. This is one of those stories where you will either really love the “insta-love” or be frustrated by it. Since it’s a holiday story – I let my disbelief go and found it charming. I didn’t think the writing was as good as Tere Michaels’ story, but it was still a pretty good offering.
3 of 5 hearts.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis
Gavin Anderson never thought making it as a writer in LA would be easy, but when his latest project falls through, he gives up on Hollywood and heads to Bonabri, Idaho in hopes that the peace and quiet of his childhood home will help him figure out his next move. Instead he finds Eric Nichols, his parents' cute and charming housesitter who is there to experience the small town Christmas festivities. Gavin's plans for quiet reflection are no match for Eric's holiday cheer, and he soon finds himself swept up in the spirit of the season. Gavin thought his life had hit a dead end, but in coming home he finds what might be a new beginning.
Gavin ends up falling for Eric, the housesitter. There is no sex in this story but lots of funny lines, and warm feelings. I was really enjoying this, but was a little bewildered by the abrupt ending, though it generally left me with a strong feeling that these boys were going to make it.
4 of 5 stars
December 29, 2014
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels- 4 stars
I liked this story. Nate is an actor and Sean is a producer, sort of of a Christmas show. I was a little overly critical of the professions as theater is mine too. So I won't bore you with picking apart the little things that would bother only someone that actually does this- from the fact that if Nate had been on Broadway he had a union card and could never work the kind of hours he was. And whatever Sean's job was, I'm unclear why he was there everyday, plus what he was eventually hired to do was not actually called a stage manager... okay, so i couldn't help myself, those are the little things. They just pulled me out of the story by distracting me. Things went pretty smoothly for these two and it was cute.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 4 stars
Chris arrives as a lost stranger in a snow storm on Paul's doorstep. This potentially could have been my favorite story. I liked the quiet easiness of it. I definitely wondered how they would make this work in the long term,. but overall, good.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis-3 stars
Gavin & Eric. This could have been great, but the story was sort of abruptly ended. I mean what was in the sketchbook? Will they live together? Is Gavin doing something with the business? Where are they all getting the money?... So good, not great, but cute.
I liked this story. Nate is an actor and Sean is a producer, sort of of a Christmas show. I was a little overly critical of the professions as theater is mine too. So I won't bore you with picking apart the little things that would bother only someone that actually does this- from the fact that if Nate had been on Broadway he had a union card and could never work the kind of hours he was. And whatever Sean's job was, I'm unclear why he was there everyday, plus what he was eventually hired to do was not actually called a stage manager... okay, so i couldn't help myself, those are the little things. They just pulled me out of the story by distracting me. Things went pretty smoothly for these two and it was cute.
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 4 stars
Chris arrives as a lost stranger in a snow storm on Paul's doorstep. This potentially could have been my favorite story. I liked the quiet easiness of it. I definitely wondered how they would make this work in the long term,. but overall, good.
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis-3 stars
Gavin & Eric. This could have been great, but the story was sort of abruptly ended. I mean what was in the sketchbook? Will they live together? Is Gavin doing something with the business? Where are they all getting the money?... So good, not great, but cute.
December 31, 2014
My last read of 2014 took longer than I expected as I stumbled reading through this anthology.
The first story Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels was pretty entertaining, sweet and touching at the same time. There's development of characters in the story, not only for the MCs but also the supporting roles, even those who seemed harried and snarky at the beginning. 3.65 stars
It's the next story I had a bit trouble with, Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee. I couldn't get the feel for this one from start to finish so I could only put 2 stars.
I probably could relate more to Gavin from Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis. Although I love Eric, the other MC, and Katie, his best friend, I felt some sort of click with what Gavin'd been through. Perhaps I'm being maudlin while reading it, but. I. Just. Felt. For. Gavin. 3.85 stars
The first story Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels was pretty entertaining, sweet and touching at the same time. There's development of characters in the story, not only for the MCs but also the supporting roles, even those who seemed harried and snarky at the beginning. 3.65 stars
It's the next story I had a bit trouble with, Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee. I couldn't get the feel for this one from start to finish so I could only put 2 stars.
I probably could relate more to Gavin from Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis. Although I love Eric, the other MC, and Katie, his best friend, I felt some sort of click with what Gavin'd been through. Perhaps I'm being maudlin while reading it, but. I. Just. Felt. For. Gavin. 3.85 stars
December 9, 2015
A very enjoyable holiday anthology recommended if you're looking for an easy, uplifting read with no sudden mood whiplash. All three stories are of similar, admirable quality, all are sweet and funny and low on angst.
Super bonus points for Bisexual Sarcasm in the last one :)
Super bonus points for Bisexual Sarcasm in the last one :)
December 20, 2015
This was a nice holiday anthology. Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels was my favorite but all of the stories were well written and enjoyable. I really liked that the MCs in all of the stories spent a lot of time talking and bantering during the short period of time they had to fall in love.
April 18, 2015
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels - 4
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 4
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 4
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 4
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 4
December 17, 2015
3.75
Review to come.
Review to come.
January 23, 2015
Enjoyed all 3 stories in this anthology.
December 8, 2016
Three holiday stories about two guys lost and needing a new direction or a miracle. And of course, in the spirit of the holiday they find what they are looking for, in life and in love. Sweet, fun stories. All of them.
November 30, 2017
I think I liked the first story (by Tere Michaels) the best. The second was ok, and the third really felt too short to really get a good grasp of the MCs. Overall an unobjectionable holiday anthology with feel good stories.
December 2, 2017
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels - 4.5 Stars - Really enjoyed this story! Favorite of the bunch
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 2 Stars - Did not like at all. Would not reread
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 4 Stars - Cute, liked the story
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 2 Stars - Did not like at all. Would not reread
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 4 Stars - Cute, liked the story
November 6, 2016
Holiday Roommates by Tere Michaels - 3 stars
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 2,5 stars
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 2,5 stars
Holiday Sanctuary by Elle Brownlee - 2,5 stars
Holiday Homecoming by Elizah J. Davis - 2,5 stars
May 13, 2017
Loved the Tere Michaels story. Super cute and sweet. The other two were still enjoyable, but didn't really compare.
December 10, 2024
Only giving it a 3 bc I liked the first half. The second half was weird and cringy and felt fake and too unrealistic and scripted
mm-have-bk
August 31, 2025pRdsp
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