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Gems & Gents #4

A Lassiter's Christmas

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How long will you wait for the love of your life to say yes? Pearl Lassiter disgraced her parents while in high school. She vowed never to disappoint them again. She’s excelled in life even becoming one of the most recognized women in the country as Press Secretary to the President of the United States. The life she always wanted is hers…until a certain doctor proposes to her…. twice. Dr. Theodore Prentiss is the product of a bi-racial marriage and proud of it. He openly embraces both of his parent’s heritages and is very proud of his accomplishments. The path he thought was firmly set changes on a snowy night when he meets a vixen with a mean crowbar. Their lives are filled with possibilities, if Theo can get Pearl to believe in the magic of love. Simple right…NOT She’s a Democrat. He’s a Republican. Will the political divide keep these star-crossed lovers from forming a united front?

148 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 25, 2014

14 people are currently reading
47 people want to read

About the author

Iris Bolling

50 books415 followers
Iris Bolling is an award-winning USA Today bestselling author of five series totaling over thirty romantic suspense novels. In addition to writing, she has produced and directed several books to film projects, and scriptwriting projects for other authors.

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5 stars
275 (77%)
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62 (17%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews
Profile Image for SassyMama.
1,016 reviews4 followers
December 30, 2014
Loved FINALLY reading about Theo and Pearl...and getting another look at this ENGAGING and animated cast of characters...looking forward to seeing the rest of the Lassiter men and women meet their "love match". KUDOS Ms. Bolling on another entertaining read!
Profile Image for Sistar Tea.
296 reviews
April 9, 2015
Pearl Has Met Her Match

It is no secret that Iris Bolling is my favorite author. I swear whatever that woman touches it turns to gold. While each separate series can be read as a standalone, they are usually connected by multiple characters. I say that to say she is the best, other than another favorite of mines K’wan, to link the books without missing a beat. It’s done so smooth you get a blast from the past and welcome every moment of it. I cannot say enough about how much I love Ms. Bolling’s work. I believe I’ve said this before, if not here It goes, “she is setting the standards and raising the bar.”

From the moment Pearl Lassiter meets Dr. Theodore “Theo” Prentiss we know they are match made in heaven. Hell, even Theo knows it. Their chance meeting happens in a parking garage when Theo is leaving work at 2am and Pearl is coming from visiting Cynthia and her car won’t start. Showing from the get go he is a true gentleman, Theo hears her rants and offers help which ends with a ride to her parents’ house. One would think the house would be asleep in the wee hrs. hours of the night but this is the Lassiter’s home and the head of household Joe is home for a lunch date with his helpmate and Queen Sally. Phire the wise cracking baby sister is up and if you remember her from earlier books, you know there’s never a dull moment with her around. From the moment Theo drops Pearl off he is accepted into the Lassiter clan. There’s only one problem…Pearl doesn’t want him there.

How do I describe Theo? Hmm that song Chante got a man by Chante Moore comes to mind. The way she has a good man and he is waiting on her to get home. Like most of the African American male characters in Ms. Bolling’s novels, he is the ideal husband. Even the happiest of women in real life yearns for the kind of love these men give. They are loyal, protectors, righteous, companions, committed, and funny, hey what’s not to love. He wins Pearls heart but she is a career woman. I also love fact the subject is broached about career vs family. I won’t spoil it; I will say you can relate on some level. That I am positive of.

SiStar Tea
ARC Book Club Inc.
5 stars
April Review
634 reviews
June 26, 2019
A Lassister Christmas #4 [How long will you wait for the love of your life to say yes? Pearl Lassiter disgraced her parents while in high school when at 16 she winds up pregnant, but miscarries. She vowed never to disappoint them again. She wants to prove her worth. She’s excelled in life even becoming one of the most recognized women in the country as Press Secretary to the President of the United States after serving on JD’s gubernatorial and senate campaigns for the last six years. The life she always wanted is hers…until a certain doctor proposes to her…. twice. (trauma surgeon) Dr. Theodore Prentiss is the product of a bi-racial marriage and proud of it. He openly embraces both of his parent’s heritages and is very proud of his accomplishments. The path he thought was firmly set changes on a snowy night when he meets a vixen with a mean crowbar. Their lives are filled with possibilities, if Theo can get Pearl to believe in the magic of love. Simple right…NOT She’s a Democrat. He’s a Republican. Will the political and parental divides keep these star-crossed lovers from forming a united front, since his black mom can’t stand her?] ‘15 VG
789 reviews4 followers
April 7, 2022
I love this Lassiter family!

Theo the Doctor saw Pearl the Press Secretary to the Attorney General now to the President as the high powered woman who kept the president's presses rolling. Pearl found in Doctor Theodore Prentiss a man who stayed the course when many men probably would have walked. Press Secretary Pearl Lassiter saw her life without the fine, considerate, compassionate, extremely intelligent and truly patient Theo and stepped up to ask him to put a ring on it ( Theo had asked her two times before she asked him). This story was jam packed with love, laughter, classism, and family unity. I am glad Pearl did not let what I consider the best thing to ever happen to her to get away. This story also gave us a glimpse of the skill set of some of these Lassiters, their many friends and extended family. Great job Ms. Boiling another really great job indeed!!!!!!!
Profile Image for Beverly.
768 reviews7 followers
January 14, 2023
wonderful Christmas read❤️

I really enjoyed this book❤️Although I did discover the Gem and Gents series until after the Christmas holiday,I found it to be the perfect read. The first three books I kept wonder what the deal was with Pearl?
So glad this book explained it all☺️.

Pearl and Dr. Lassiter were perfect for one another. The day he met her entire family had to explain his intention I couldn’t help but smile, but when he explains the deference in being interested in someone for marriage verses just sex, 🔥🔥🔥🔥
I was like I’ll trade places with Pearl😂

I have to say Pearl worked my nerves sooo bad she couldn’t see the forest for the trees and could not seem to let go of what happened to her when she was 16 years old. All I can say is every woman would be blessed to have a man love her like Theo loved Pearl ❤️❤️❤️
380 reviews1 follower
March 10, 2021
Pearl Lassiter does not trust men. She had a bad experience with her first love when she was in high school. She is very distrusting of men and gives them a hard time. She does not date because of this. Her car breaks down and that is how she meets Dr Theodore Prentiss. He is nothing but kind and considerate to her. But they are opposites. She is the Press Secretary for and up and coming Politian. Dr Prentiss is a well known doctor. He very drawn to Pearl. He patiently dates her and eventually wins her heart. Because she is one of 12 and he has to get to know and win approval of all of them plus her mother and father. I love the Lassiters. They definately take care and stand by each other.
800 reviews2 followers
July 11, 2022
Awesome book!

Wow! This was an awesome read. I truly enjoyed the complete journey that Ms Bolling takes you on it this book. I love the chemistry between Theo and Pearl it was smoking hot 🔥 and very intense! The characters were entertaining and were a delight to meet. Loved how Pearl handled Theo's mother she was a real witch. I can't wait till I read the rest of the books in this series. Ms Bolling you have done a outstanding job with your books. I highly recommend this book to my fellow romance readers you will not be disappointed.
206 reviews12 followers
August 28, 2025
A Passenger's Christmas

Book 4 another great story! Theodore and Pearl! Family and Love! A plot every family should experience ! Theo and Pearl the perfect couple who loved each other but respected each choice in love, waiting for each other to love! I Love the family in each of these stories! The author wrote another hard to put down, A love story but also a suspense love story! You will not be disappointed!
31 reviews
June 29, 2021
It just gets better with time

I like the way the family is always connected whether good or bad. The story about Pearl and Theo was even better than the first two books. You just have to continue purchasing the next book.
I would recommend this book to all my friends. Once you start read the series you are hooked
Profile Image for Peggy Smith.
Author 86 books9 followers
September 10, 2021
Outstanding

As someone who loves Christmas, A Lassiter's Christmas was a joy to read. Pearl went through something that no young girl should go through. Thank God for her mother, but mostly for her big sisters love. As far as Theo, he was what Pearl needed to trust again. Excellent read.
Profile Image for JigsawGirl.
4,168 reviews
December 3, 2023
Whew! Pearl absolutely was not expecting the inner strength Dr. Prentiss exhibited. Leonora was a piece of work. Reminded me of a couple of currently prominent people.

I love reading about the Lassiters and their lives. The love, faith, loyalty, and humor coming from this family is always a good read.
Profile Image for Brenda  Larnell.
442 reviews26 followers
December 16, 2017
Merry Christmas Lassiter Family Style

A Christmas story like no other because it involves the Lassiter Family. Pearl and Theo’s story is delightful, heart-wrenching, unpredictable and engaging. It’s a must read.
Profile Image for Yvette P Carter.
212 reviews1 follower
June 11, 2021
Beautifully scripted

At first I thought this would be another mushy Christmas saga. But I am pleasantly surprised. An action packed family story dripping in "family first" and foremost!
1,027 reviews1 follower
July 10, 2021
The first gem to marry

Pearl found her perfect mate. Theo was the one who could handle and was not intimidated by her family. His mother was a piece of work but she didn't know the Lassiters. Oh yeah
Profile Image for Dee Matthews.
18 reviews
February 5, 2018
I've read this book so many times I can't count. Ruby's story was exciting, and dramatic. Ruby finding her love was a beautiful thing. A definite must read.
Profile Image for Sonya Wright.
20 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2018
Pearl

She is truly a gem...........I love her sass and straightforwardness although she made Theo wait too long, but just proves that when it’s love it is everlasting
164 reviews
October 23, 2021
Great read

I am glad that Pearl finally found her man.Theo is great for her. He had to be a great guy to wait 6 years for her. Great read.
Profile Image for Carolyn King.
2,443 reviews42 followers
December 10, 2023
Love It

This book is just as good as the first time I read it. The Lassiter Family is not one a family you want to mess with. I love Pearl and Theo.
5 reviews1 follower
April 26, 2025
A Diamond in the making

Great Love story
Would add this to my recommendation list. This story a page turner. Keep me waiting to read all night.
Profile Image for Nicole Baker grant.
588 reviews
March 7, 2022
Great Read

I loved reading A Lassiter's Christmas, finding the person that makes your world turn upside down is a great thing. Theo and Pearl are the perfect couple. I definitely recommend this book.
Profile Image for Karen Taylor.
174 reviews1 follower
September 30, 2023
Love

Finding love was not the plan for Pearl, but when it happened boy was she happy. Theo was the man for her and her family loved him.
Profile Image for CoCoFierce .
118 reviews4 followers
January 5, 2015
A Lassiter’s Christmas takes place where Look into My Heart book three of the Heart series leaves off. Because this is a series I recommend that you read all the books in the series before starting this one. This book could be read alone but a lot of characters reappear from her previous books and in order to understand the family dynamic you must go back to the beginning where it all began.

Pearl: the hurt ain’t no good men around sista’ has very strong feelings toward men. Being hurt by her first love at the age of 16 she has hardened her heart to love. Always one to get them before they get her Pearl has made work her love.

Theo: the man for the job with the patience of a saint meets a stranded Pearl and offers his assistance. Pearl being who she is selfish and at times insecure builds up that wall against any man who she feels is a threat. At first being attracted to Pearl’s coke bottle shape, Theo finds that even though her personality is a turn off that there is more than meets the eye to this dark beauty. And Sally Lassiter’s cooking is just enough to seal the deal.

One thing about the Lassiter family is that when you take on one you take on all the gem’s and gent’s. The family has this tradition of doing a Q&A with each new suitor. Because Dr. Prentiss is assertive and the quintessential alpha male he did not waiver on his feelings for Pearl. Throughout the story he always checked Pearl on her selfish attitude although at times he should have been more forward with being put first. For instance this story takes place over a span of six years and in this time Pearl grew but not as much as she should have. Because of her own insecurities about the incident took place when she was 16 her wounds run deep and anyone who gets close is stuck in limbo with her.
Though this book has some heavy moments Phire the younger sisters always knows how to add the comedic relief. She is such a firecracker and I am awaiting her story next and the man she will end up with. This book is the reason I love romance stories it is a true story that love overcomes all.

As much as I love the Lassiter family and believe me I do I am glad as a reader I got more insight to Theo’s family. I believe this is one of the first stories where the author has a hero who is non-black. Theo is mixed but identifies with being African-American but the author mentions that his father is Caucasian and that his mother and father relationship was considered taboo. You could tell with this story that the author stepped outside her comfort zone with this character and she is new to writing IR couples. For instance throughout the story she mentions that the father is Caucasian. At one point I wanted to say we get it already he is of the Caucasian persuasion. Further into the story after the mother Lenora is introduced it makes sense why the characters color is constantly being mentioned.

Lenora was a bit judgmental towards other blacks considering she was once in a “taboo” relationship. I liked the issues raised between black women who date white men and how some loose a sense of their blackness. Iris doesn't sugar coat the race issues it's very much in your face.Pearl had a lot of growing up and can be selfish in her thinking ironically Cynthia was the one to point it out to her. All in all this is a very great story with dynamic characters I cannot wait to see what else Iris has in store. Judge this book for yourself and not based on this one review.
Profile Image for KBeautiful1.
690 reviews66 followers
January 1, 2015
AMAZINGGGGGGGGGGG!!!!!!!!!!!!!

You have to respect an author who can take you from the past, to the present and into the future without missing a beat. Author Iris Bolling did something that very few authors are able to do and that was pull off a story where the previous books in this series all intertwined with one another and it was done like a well oiled machine. Nothing was out of place, off beat or out of sync that right there ladies and gentleman is what separates the gifted from the mediocre.

Pearl Lassiter, Sweet Merciful Lord...Take My Hand and Walk With Me. Pearl, Pearl, Pearl worked my last good nerve and honestly (I only have a few left LOL!!!) She worked it like nobody's business and without giving the story away, she was a woman (like so many others today) that has allowed something from her past, so cripple and debilitate her emotionally. In her professional life she excelled, she is the Press Secretary to The President of The United States but her personal life was just damaged and she said it herself. But it takes God Almighty Himself to heal our brokenness, while He is doing the healing, He is preparing our Boaz for His daughter.

Dr. Theodore Prentiss is Boaz to Pearl Lassiter's Ruth. You know my daddy always used to say to me, "A Man Knows When A Woman is Going to be His Wife, It doesn't take years but in a instant". That is what happened when Dr. Prentiss happened upon Pearl who was stuck in the Hospital parking lot because her car gave out on her once again. Pearl who is always suspect of men, she don't mind sleeping with them but that is all they could ever get from her, couldn't believe Dr. Prentiss just honestly wanted to help her *chuckling* I said to myself, Lawd Pearl your man is right in front of you and you just don't know it yet.

Dr. Theodore Prentiss, the Youngest and Head Trauma Surgeon couldn't believe his luck until Pearl opened up her mouth LOLLL!!! Then he was like this chick is angry as hell, when he offers to drive her home after a little confrontation in the parking lot to his surprise he is invited inside of her parents home (by her dad) much to Pearl's chagrin. The Patriarch and Matriarch of the Lassiter Clan immediately see Theo as the one for their daughter, again convincing Pearl is a whole different story.

The scene where the siblings interrogate Theo is hysterical, Theo's dad is fantastic, his mother on the other hand leaves much to be desired *smh* Sapphire aka Phire who is the youngest will having your hollering out loud. There is a part where Ruby responds after Theo breaks down the difference between Marriage vs. Sex that will have you gasping for her because your just cracking up. The past, present and future flashes are brilliant.

This was such an incredible story of triumph over tragedy, the broken hearted being made whole and love conquers all coming to fruition. You will find all of this and so much more in this wonderful story.

Well Until My Next and Final Review for 2014 Ciao Bellas!

See You in 2015 Woot! Woot!
Profile Image for Abby G. Amos.
1,254 reviews3 followers
September 11, 2015
Another Great Read!

Iris keep doing her thing. I have read every single book she has written, and she still hasn't disappointed me. Everyone who reads this book will enjoy it! I too am glad that Pearl met someone that could tame her. Someone who truly loves her. I really love Sapphires comments and how her family turns and looks at her, wondering, where does she get her mouth from!? Every time Sapphire is in the story, everyone reading, will get a laugh from it. Great job Ms. Bolling! I recommend this book to everyone who enjoys reading!!!
Profile Image for Deirdre Davis.
530 reviews6 followers
January 2, 2016
Theo & Pearl

I took my time starting to read "A Lassiter's Christmas". I knew it was going to be a good one and I wanted to stretch it as long as I could!!! Dr. Theo Prentiss knows what he wants and is willing to wait for Pearl Lassiter!!! Wait he does!!! Their story is hilarious and touching. The best parts are when the Lassiters grill Theo and anytime they get together. Plenty of laugh out loud moments and surprises with some drama mixed in. Two thumbs up!!!
Profile Image for Yasmin.
122 reviews
March 8, 2016
Pretty Good

This definitely wasn't my favorite Lassiter book. But, it was still a good read. That Pearl is a piece of work. God bless Theo for taking that on. This book was more about the romance than anything . they're was no underlying mystery and I loved that part about the other books. Maybe that as why I didn't like this one as much. However, I think it fits well in the series and as I said is still a good book. Next up is Ruby!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 55 reviews

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