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Christmas On Cosmic Avenue
When single dad Sab Dubois downloads a swingers app, it’s meant to be a bit of harmless curiosity—until his gorgeous neighbour catches him in the act and makes him an offer he can’t refuse.
Galen McCarthy, the firefighter over the back fence, doesn’t do love or relationships—and he certainly doesn’t do forever. Coaching his flustered neighbour through some first-time exploration seems easy enough.
No strings. No expectations.
No hearts on the line.
But when fate has Galen fighting for his life for the third Christmas running, everything he didn’t know he wanted comes rushing into focus—the man who fed and healed him, the little lady he adores, and the family he never knew he needed.
Because love doesn’t ask permission.
It steals your heart and wraps it in fairy lights.
It forgives your fears and guides you home…
To Christmas on Cosmic Avenue.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a medium-spice, emotional MM romance about first times, found family, and finding your way home—just in time for Christmas.
neighbours-to-lovers, first times/sexual discovery, single dad × wounded firefighter, angst, addiction recovery/healing, found family, and the most perfect Christmas happily ever after.
Galen McCarthy, the firefighter over the back fence, doesn’t do love or relationships—and he certainly doesn’t do forever. Coaching his flustered neighbour through some first-time exploration seems easy enough.
No strings. No expectations.
No hearts on the line.
But when fate has Galen fighting for his life for the third Christmas running, everything he didn’t know he wanted comes rushing into focus—the man who fed and healed him, the little lady he adores, and the family he never knew he needed.
Because love doesn’t ask permission.
It steals your heart and wraps it in fairy lights.
It forgives your fears and guides you home…
To Christmas on Cosmic Avenue.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a medium-spice, emotional MM romance about first times, found family, and finding your way home—just in time for Christmas.
neighbours-to-lovers, first times/sexual discovery, single dad × wounded firefighter, angst, addiction recovery/healing, found family, and the most perfect Christmas happily ever after.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 3, 2025
81 people are currently reading
221 people want to read
About the author
Garrett Leigh
97 books2,405 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 151 reviews
December 9, 2025
Calling this as my fave Christmas book for the year. Not too cheesy, fluffy or overly sweet. Still festive and heartwarming but with a nice amount of quiet tension and subtle angst mixed in. I’ve been hanging out for Galen’s story since Christmas on Firefly Hill and it did not disappoint.
Galen, the sexy Irish firefighter and Sab, the French single dad with a rough past are absolutely lovely together. They have oodles of chemistry - 69% had my heart fluttering! And a nice dose of hurt/comfort which never goes astray for me + found family vibes - perfection 👌🏽
I love Galen’s Irish slang, I think I swooned every time he called Sab ”a handsome fecker.” And thoroughly enjoyed every time he called himself an eejit “I’m the biggest fecking eejit that’s ever fecking lived”. 🤭😁🤣
“I find him at my bedroom door, rehanging it with the tools I’d abandoned on the landing. Feck my life. Could he be any hotter? He tests the door. It’s perfect, obviously…Competence is my kryptonite. Who knew?
Same Sab, same. A man who can literally attach a door after having sex. What a turn-on 🔥
Aaaand I’m always a sucker for some text message tension. This really was a jolly good time. I would recommend reading after Christmas on Firefly Hilland Christmas On Stardust Lane for the full experience as they are recurring characters.
Galen, the sexy Irish firefighter and Sab, the French single dad with a rough past are absolutely lovely together. They have oodles of chemistry - 69% had my heart fluttering! And a nice dose of hurt/comfort which never goes astray for me + found family vibes - perfection 👌🏽
I love Galen’s Irish slang, I think I swooned every time he called Sab ”a handsome fecker.” And thoroughly enjoyed every time he called himself an eejit “I’m the biggest fecking eejit that’s ever fecking lived”. 🤭😁🤣
“I find him at my bedroom door, rehanging it with the tools I’d abandoned on the landing. Feck my life. Could he be any hotter? He tests the door. It’s perfect, obviously…Competence is my kryptonite. Who knew?
Same Sab, same. A man who can literally attach a door after having sex. What a turn-on 🔥
Aaaand I’m always a sucker for some text message tension. This really was a jolly good time. I would recommend reading after Christmas on Firefly Hilland Christmas On Stardust Lane for the full experience as they are recurring characters.
December 17, 2025
Every single one of the books in this Christmas series has really effortlessly hit on the right balance of romance, heat and seasonal vibes to make them some of my favourite Christmas reads that I’ve come across.
I would say that this book, more than the first two, probably doesn’t work as well as a stand alone/out of order. We’ve already been introduced to Galen, the rugged, sexy, pansexual Firefighter, who popped up as Logans work bestie from book 1, and Sab, the sweet, single dad having his bi-awakening, was Tam’s younger brother from book 2.
As with the first two, I thought the chemistry was really sweet and hot and I loved these two together. I did think that the lack of communication which caused the major conflict between these two dragged out a little longer than I would have liked but it was resolved in a satisfying (if not slightly dramatic fashion lol). As a little guilty pleasure it was nice to share some extra time with Tam and Bhodi further down the line after they have settled down together (i think they’re still my fave couple of the series although Galen and Sab did give them a run for their money).
Garrett Leigh delivers another effortlessly enjoyable romance set over the seasonal period full of love and found family vibes. I will be looking forward to book 4 in this series when its released next Christmas!
I would say that this book, more than the first two, probably doesn’t work as well as a stand alone/out of order. We’ve already been introduced to Galen, the rugged, sexy, pansexual Firefighter, who popped up as Logans work bestie from book 1, and Sab, the sweet, single dad having his bi-awakening, was Tam’s younger brother from book 2.
As with the first two, I thought the chemistry was really sweet and hot and I loved these two together. I did think that the lack of communication which caused the major conflict between these two dragged out a little longer than I would have liked but it was resolved in a satisfying (if not slightly dramatic fashion lol). As a little guilty pleasure it was nice to share some extra time with Tam and Bhodi further down the line after they have settled down together (i think they’re still my fave couple of the series although Galen and Sab did give them a run for their money).
Garrett Leigh delivers another effortlessly enjoyable romance set over the seasonal period full of love and found family vibes. I will be looking forward to book 4 in this series when its released next Christmas!
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December 24, 2025
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue by Garrett Leigh is a stand alone, MM holiday romance. There are cross over appearances from some of the characters from her other holiday stories but you don’t need to have read them. This book is like a beautiful poem. The whole thing is so beautifully told. There is so much yearning. I loved it so much.
Sab Dubois is twenty nine years old and is a single dad to his two year old daughter that is the center of his world. He is the brother of Tam (Christmas on Stardust Lane.) Tam and Bhodi actually play an important part in Sab’s life, trying to help him as much as possible with his daughter.
Galen is a firefighter who is openly pan-sexual but doesn’t do relationships. Galen was injured two years ago in a fire and has fought his way back to full duty but it was a rough climb.
Sab has known for quite a while that he was interested in men as well as women. But at this point, it’s still curiosity. He hasn’t had the nerve to actually act on anything. But, he’s been playing around with a swingers app thinking it might be easier to ease into things with a couple. At a traffic snarl due to a fire, he’s actually looking at the app when his sexy neighbor, a firefighter walks up to his car and sees what he’s doing!
Galen is so careful with Sab. Their first kiss melted my heart. What started out as just one man trying to help another with his bi-curiosity, quickly turned into more. But neither wanted to admit it to themselves. Galen found something when he spent time with Sab and his daughter. I closeness, a peace, a sense of family. But that wasn’t what this was supposed to be.
The last twenty five percent of this really surprised me! It was pretty intense. I couldn’t stop reading at that point and had to stay until the very end. This really is such a beautiful, wonderful story. I adore this author’s Christmas romances but this one just might be the best one yet!
Sab Dubois is twenty nine years old and is a single dad to his two year old daughter that is the center of his world. He is the brother of Tam (Christmas on Stardust Lane.) Tam and Bhodi actually play an important part in Sab’s life, trying to help him as much as possible with his daughter.
Galen is a firefighter who is openly pan-sexual but doesn’t do relationships. Galen was injured two years ago in a fire and has fought his way back to full duty but it was a rough climb.
Sab has known for quite a while that he was interested in men as well as women. But at this point, it’s still curiosity. He hasn’t had the nerve to actually act on anything. But, he’s been playing around with a swingers app thinking it might be easier to ease into things with a couple. At a traffic snarl due to a fire, he’s actually looking at the app when his sexy neighbor, a firefighter walks up to his car and sees what he’s doing!
Galen is so careful with Sab. Their first kiss melted my heart. What started out as just one man trying to help another with his bi-curiosity, quickly turned into more. But neither wanted to admit it to themselves. Galen found something when he spent time with Sab and his daughter. I closeness, a peace, a sense of family. But that wasn’t what this was supposed to be.
The last twenty five percent of this really surprised me! It was pretty intense. I couldn’t stop reading at that point and had to stay until the very end. This really is such a beautiful, wonderful story. I adore this author’s Christmas romances but this one just might be the best one yet!
December 22, 2025
5 Stars
I’m a big, big fan of this M/M holiday series (that’s not *technically* a series), with each book set in the charming English town of Everwyld, each with a new focus couple and an ever-expanding cast of wonderfully layered characters, all of whom have been providing me with a delicious little shot of Christmastime love and magic every year for three years now.
I’m undecided whether I loved this book (book three) more than my love of last year’s personal Christmas fave, Christmas On Stardust Lane, but either way, a grand time was had by me, as Leigh delivers another emotionally resonate, deeply romantic love story set over Christmas.
MCs Sab and Galen had a really pleasing relationship trajectory. It started out kinda fun and cheeky, with their palpable chemistry leading to some really lovely interactions and eventual spicy moments, full of passion and patience, as Sab explored his bisexuality for the first time with more experienced and confident Galen.
With Sab as a single father who has a past with addiction and Galen a firefighter healing (emotionally and physically) in the aftermath of a pretty life impacting work injury, these two had some good emotional depth and their dynamic had some affectionate and heartwarming moments of hurt-comfort goodness.
Yes, there’s a bit in the way of “lack of communication” between these two, who both quickly want more than exploratory hookups, both quite smitten, in an unexpected way, but both are also too hung up on their pasts and their insecurities to say as much, which may be frustrating for some readers.
For me, the yearning and the tenderness and the excellent chemistry between these two men (and between Galen and Sab’s little girl, Esme) was such that I didn’t mind the avoiding these two idiots did before higher stakes led to some grand realisations and some even tastier Christmastime confessions.
Sab and Galen have both been secondary characters in the earlier reads, which, for me, made their story less of a standalone than the first two stories. Sab’s brother and (now) husband, Tam and Bodhi, were VERY present in this story, so I’d certainly recommend starting with at least Christmas On Stardust Lane – or better yet, Christmas on Firefly Hill, where we first met firefighter Galen in all his hunky glory back in book one.
Regardless of how you choose to read these books, Garrett Leigh definitely provides the seasonal warmth and romance I’m after in these stories and with these lovely characters, making them easy favourites in my M/M holiday reading collections.
I’m a big, big fan of this M/M holiday series (that’s not *technically* a series), with each book set in the charming English town of Everwyld, each with a new focus couple and an ever-expanding cast of wonderfully layered characters, all of whom have been providing me with a delicious little shot of Christmastime love and magic every year for three years now.
I’m undecided whether I loved this book (book three) more than my love of last year’s personal Christmas fave, Christmas On Stardust Lane, but either way, a grand time was had by me, as Leigh delivers another emotionally resonate, deeply romantic love story set over Christmas.
MCs Sab and Galen had a really pleasing relationship trajectory. It started out kinda fun and cheeky, with their palpable chemistry leading to some really lovely interactions and eventual spicy moments, full of passion and patience, as Sab explored his bisexuality for the first time with more experienced and confident Galen.
With Sab as a single father who has a past with addiction and Galen a firefighter healing (emotionally and physically) in the aftermath of a pretty life impacting work injury, these two had some good emotional depth and their dynamic had some affectionate and heartwarming moments of hurt-comfort goodness.
Yes, there’s a bit in the way of “lack of communication” between these two, who both quickly want more than exploratory hookups, both quite smitten, in an unexpected way, but both are also too hung up on their pasts and their insecurities to say as much, which may be frustrating for some readers.
For me, the yearning and the tenderness and the excellent chemistry between these two men (and between Galen and Sab’s little girl, Esme) was such that I didn’t mind the avoiding these two idiots did before higher stakes led to some grand realisations and some even tastier Christmastime confessions.
Sab and Galen have both been secondary characters in the earlier reads, which, for me, made their story less of a standalone than the first two stories. Sab’s brother and (now) husband, Tam and Bodhi, were VERY present in this story, so I’d certainly recommend starting with at least Christmas On Stardust Lane – or better yet, Christmas on Firefly Hill, where we first met firefighter Galen in all his hunky glory back in book one.
Regardless of how you choose to read these books, Garrett Leigh definitely provides the seasonal warmth and romance I’m after in these stories and with these lovely characters, making them easy favourites in my M/M holiday reading collections.
November 23, 2025
I've been looking forward to Sab and Galen's story for so long and it was SO good.
I love Garrett Leigh's characters and the way they have so many layers. Galen and Sab were both so stuck in their mindsets but when they finally break free and admit to themselves how they feel, it seems like it's going to be too late.
Galen getting coached on feelings and relationships by Nash was so sweet and made me love Nash even more! I love how there's all of these links between the characters and that every book just adds more love to this rich story world.
Sab speaking French has had me speaking it all evening too 😂 I love how Sab and Tam flip between English and French, and Esme was just adorable with the canards!
This book (this whole Christmas series) is perfect if you're not really a fan of the OTT American-style Christmas vibe. It's subtle and more realistic to me and I already can't wait for next years installment with Raff and the mysterious baker.
I need to go eat croissants and nutella now 😍
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
I love Garrett Leigh's characters and the way they have so many layers. Galen and Sab were both so stuck in their mindsets but when they finally break free and admit to themselves how they feel, it seems like it's going to be too late.
Galen getting coached on feelings and relationships by Nash was so sweet and made me love Nash even more! I love how there's all of these links between the characters and that every book just adds more love to this rich story world.
Sab speaking French has had me speaking it all evening too 😂 I love how Sab and Tam flip between English and French, and Esme was just adorable with the canards!
This book (this whole Christmas series) is perfect if you're not really a fan of the OTT American-style Christmas vibe. It's subtle and more realistic to me and I already can't wait for next years installment with Raff and the mysterious baker.
I need to go eat croissants and nutella now 😍
*****
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review
November 21, 2025
There's festive romances that are like your Hallmark Movie, all small towns and hot chocolate with candy canes, then there's a Garrett Leigh one...
Over the last few years she's been giving the reader a softer story at Christmas, which usually has a little bit of an edge but nothing like her usual narratives, and is linked into her wider universe in multiple ways.
And she always delivers a romance that is always worth the effort, the struggles and the determination to find a connection in a world where so many people don't have one.
This is possibly my favourite one yet in the Everwyld collection because it's Galen McCarthy's, the firefighter who's been around for a fair few books now and, in an inspirational decision, she's paired him up with Tam Dubois' brother Sab.
It's a story of lost people, of changing directions, of button-nosed cute little girls, of family and friendship, of recovery and exploration.
Slowburn-y and yet still spicy, these two have a spark as hot as those that Galen fights in his day job and Sab's bewildered confusion and nerves over his awakened bisexuality is so full of the feels you'll be wanting to grab him and hold him tight.
There's plenty of Tam and Bhodi appearances, but not enough to confuse those who haven't read their book - but definitely do, it's also epically good Christmas On Stardust Lane - as well as a Rebel King who knows a bit about bisexual exploration!
What begins as a potential hook-up as Sab downloads a swinger's app in the hope he can get some experience with a man to cement his theoretical attraction, turns instead into an unexpected connection, into long walks, healing hugs and maybe, just maybe, an expanded family.
I loved how, while this looks like we'll hit a bit of miscommunication and possibly go tit's up, Garrett never lets it go that far.
A bit of confusion, a stumble of words and a brief lack of courage, followed by a few home truths from wiser people, get these two back on track before the unexpected tension point caused by Galen's job, kicks in.
It's a perfect blend of sweet and savoury, the Christmas cake with Wensleydale, or the plum with the duck, and I couldn't be happier at how it all concludes.
Now I can't wait for next year's instalment in this little town with its wonderfully named streets and the gift of a forever love on its way!
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Reviews, I am voluntarily leaving a review
Over the last few years she's been giving the reader a softer story at Christmas, which usually has a little bit of an edge but nothing like her usual narratives, and is linked into her wider universe in multiple ways.
And she always delivers a romance that is always worth the effort, the struggles and the determination to find a connection in a world where so many people don't have one.
This is possibly my favourite one yet in the Everwyld collection because it's Galen McCarthy's, the firefighter who's been around for a fair few books now and, in an inspirational decision, she's paired him up with Tam Dubois' brother Sab.
It's a story of lost people, of changing directions, of button-nosed cute little girls, of family and friendship, of recovery and exploration.
Slowburn-y and yet still spicy, these two have a spark as hot as those that Galen fights in his day job and Sab's bewildered confusion and nerves over his awakened bisexuality is so full of the feels you'll be wanting to grab him and hold him tight.
There's plenty of Tam and Bhodi appearances, but not enough to confuse those who haven't read their book - but definitely do, it's also epically good Christmas On Stardust Lane - as well as a Rebel King who knows a bit about bisexual exploration!
What begins as a potential hook-up as Sab downloads a swinger's app in the hope he can get some experience with a man to cement his theoretical attraction, turns instead into an unexpected connection, into long walks, healing hugs and maybe, just maybe, an expanded family.
I loved how, while this looks like we'll hit a bit of miscommunication and possibly go tit's up, Garrett never lets it go that far.
A bit of confusion, a stumble of words and a brief lack of courage, followed by a few home truths from wiser people, get these two back on track before the unexpected tension point caused by Galen's job, kicks in.
It's a perfect blend of sweet and savoury, the Christmas cake with Wensleydale, or the plum with the duck, and I couldn't be happier at how it all concludes.
Now I can't wait for next year's instalment in this little town with its wonderfully named streets and the gift of a forever love on its way!
#ARC kindly received from the author via GRR Reviews, I am voluntarily leaving a review
January 5, 2026
4 stars!! ❤️Another wonderful addition to Garrett Leigh’s Christmas series—one that works perfectly well as a standalone. ❤️❤️ I’ve loved every book in this series so far, and Sab and Galen’s story was no exception. Both characters carry significant emotional baggage from their pasts, which makes them hesitant to voice their true feelings despite the instant connection between them. What follows is a tender journey filled with misgivings, self-doubt, and a steadily growing attraction that neither can deny.
Ultimately, they find their way back to each other, and the happily-ever-after is both sweet and deeply satisfying. Highly recommended for all fans of holiday romance.. 👍🏻
Ultimately, they find their way back to each other, and the happily-ever-after is both sweet and deeply satisfying. Highly recommended for all fans of holiday romance.. 👍🏻
November 27, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ — A warm, messy, charming festive read
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is exactly the kind of holiday romance that sneaks up on you with more heart than you expect.
My only real gripe? It’s marketed as a standalone, but there are clear connections to previous books, and I definitely felt the lack of context. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did take a little bite out of my overall enjoyment.
Everything else, though? Absolutely lovely.
The single-dad vibes were gorgeous, all that casual, loose French sprinkled throughout was adorable, and the miscommunication… well, I wanted to strangle them both, but in the best way. Two hurt boys stumbling toward each other, trying to make sense of tenderness they don’t think they deserve — how could I not fall for that?
Sweet, a bit chaotic, quietly emotional, and full of festive warmth. A solid 4-star read.
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is exactly the kind of holiday romance that sneaks up on you with more heart than you expect.
My only real gripe? It’s marketed as a standalone, but there are clear connections to previous books, and I definitely felt the lack of context. It didn’t ruin the experience, but it did take a little bite out of my overall enjoyment.
Everything else, though? Absolutely lovely.
The single-dad vibes were gorgeous, all that casual, loose French sprinkled throughout was adorable, and the miscommunication… well, I wanted to strangle them both, but in the best way. Two hurt boys stumbling toward each other, trying to make sense of tenderness they don’t think they deserve — how could I not fall for that?
Sweet, a bit chaotic, quietly emotional, and full of festive warmth. A solid 4-star read.
“You’re so good at this part.”
“Which part is that?”
“The part that makes me feel like you’re my home.” The words fall out of me unchecked. As if I’m drunk, and I don’t give a single shite. “I’m trying to tell you I love you, in case I’m not being clear.”
There’s a chance I’m not. I’m so poleaxed by fatigue I can’t be sure I’m not slurring. But Sab…
He smiles and it’s everything I need. He always has been, I just didn’t fecking know it. “Regarde-moi, mon cœur. Juste moi. I think I might love you too.”
I received a copy of this book from GRR, and this is my honest review.
December 8, 2025
Garrett Leigh really understands how to make a Christmas novella feel like a full-sized novel.
While Sab is having all kinds of feelings (self-doubt, insecurities, anxiety etc) about exploring his newly found attraction to men, Galen learns that despite his usual ‘no relationship’ mantra, love can hit when you meet the right guy.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sab and Galen’s story with in depth characterization and a very realistic relationship development, and loved the cameo of Nash (Rebel Kings) and the two previous couples in this Christmas universe.
And little Esme was rather cute and fit well into the story without overtaking it.
One of the best Christmas stories this year so far.
While Sab is having all kinds of feelings (self-doubt, insecurities, anxiety etc) about exploring his newly found attraction to men, Galen learns that despite his usual ‘no relationship’ mantra, love can hit when you meet the right guy.
I thoroughly enjoyed Sab and Galen’s story with in depth characterization and a very realistic relationship development, and loved the cameo of Nash (Rebel Kings) and the two previous couples in this Christmas universe.
And little Esme was rather cute and fit well into the story without overtaking it.
One of the best Christmas stories this year so far.
December 20, 2025
B / 4 stars
If, like me, you’re not the biggest fan of the schmalzy, Hallmark-y Christmas romances that proliferate at this time of year, then Garrett Leigh’s Christmas on Cosmic Avenue could be just what you’re looking for. It’s funny and snarky and warm; and it’s festive without being over-the-top, which makes for a perfect seasonal love story as far as I’m concerned.
Sab Dubois – brother of Tam from Christmas On Stardust Lane (this town – now called Everwyld - has the most wonderful street names!) - is a single dad to two-year-old Esme and has been on his own for over a year, ever since his cheating ex walked out after he told her he thought he might be bisexual. She just laughed in his face, called him “a cokehead with a fried brain”, and went out and screwed someone else - one of the many side pieces Sab had known nothing about. Now he has full custody of Esme and although being a single parent isn’t the easiest thing in the world, he adores his daughter and has plenty of support from Tam and his husband Bhodi (a nurse), who live just a few streets away.
He doesn’t have much of a social life, though, no matter that Tam and Bhodi have Esme overnight once a week and encourage him to get himself back out there and into the dating scene. Sab knows he could to talk to his brother about the shift in his sexuality, but he just can’t; he’s a recovering addict, was so fucked up for so many years, and hasn’t got over what he did not only to himself but also to Tam – and doesn’t want to keep using Tam as an emotional crutch. He’ll tell him – at some point, maybe when he’s more sure about it himself. Just… not yet.
But perhaps being sure, or finding out for sure, if he really is into men as well as women is something he should do before making any life-altering decisions or confessions. Sab has never been one for casual sex, but thinks that maybe hooking up with adventurous MF/bi couples is the way to ease himself in (so to speak) to man-on-man sex rather than setting himself up on the brutal meat-market of Grindr, so he downloads a swingers app, creates a profile and starts swiping.
Firefighter Galen McCarthy is still on light-duty following a serious on-the-job incident eighteen months earlier that almost killed him. So his role at the scene of the fire at the local chippy is mostly directing traffic by speaking to drivers in the long queue of vehicles created by the closed road and asking them to wait or find an alternative route. When he taps on the window of the white van and looks inside, he recognises the gorgeous guy in the driver’s seat as his neighbour-from-over-the-back-fence and is surprised – but not displeased – to see that he’s been scrolling through a familiar-looking app. Cheekily, Galen leans in, takes the phone, opens Google Play and downloads a different app, telling Sab it’s a better one - a big grin on his face as he turns to walk away. It’s been quite a while since a bloke has really turned his head… the least he can do is to find him online later and welcome him to FlingIt – isn’t it?
Sab doesn’t recognise the brawny, auburn-haired firefighter with the dazzling smile, but he can’t stop thinking about him and has been alternating between hoping he’d message him on the app and berating himself for being ridiculous ever since the previous afternoon. So when he sees Galen’s message Sab goes into a bit of a tailspin, the anxiety and low grade panic he’s experienced ever since his ex mocked and ridiculed him taking hold and tying his insides into knots before he can tell himself to calm down. The guy has given him a tip and sent him a message – that’s all. It doesn’t mean he’s looking for the same thing as Sab.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a beautifully written story of two men slowly falling into a relationship and finding the kind of strong emotional connection neither of them had expected, or, in Galen’s case, wanted. He’s never been interested in relationships and has been happily playing the field – so offering some advice and maybe some hands-on experience to a newbie like Sab is easy. But when the intense attraction simmering between them turns into shared meals, long walks and hugs he never knew he craved… there’s nothing easy about it, and Sab’s presence in his life has Galen questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
Sab has been through a lot and hasn’t made it to the other side completely unscathed, but he’s been sober for over five years and is determined to stay that way. That isn’t to say he doesn’t still have demons to slay; his ex did a number on him and her comments about his sexuality, together with Sab’s view of his past addiction as a symptom of weakness, have made it easy for him to believe himself unworthy of being someone’s choice of partner. With his rational mind, he knows that’s not true. But emotionally… he’s frozen into inaction and prone to second-and-third guessing everything.
I really liked Sab and Galen; their baggage means both of them are given to overthinking, but they’re down-to-earth, multi-layered characters who are absolutely perfect for each other – if only they can get out of their own way and let themselves see it. Their romance is nicely developed, full of chemistry and yearning, and although Galen’s schedule and Sab’s single-parenthood make it difficult for them to find time to get together at first, that gives them time to get to know each other a little through messages, and the ease with which they eventually become closer is incredibly well done. There’s some miscommunication going on thanks to their presence on a swingers’ app (both of them thinking that what the other really wants is to be hooking up with couples-and-more, and that they’re just a temporary stop on the way to that), and I have to say that it does take a bit too long for Galen and Sab to pull their heads out of their respective arses and admit what they want and how they feel, both to themselves and each other. And then the tension is really amped up when the dangerous realities of Galen’s job are suddenly made stark and the possibility arises that maybe they’re already too late.
I look forward to Garrett Leigh’s Christmas stories each year because I know they’re likely to suit me; the setting, the characters and the way they speak and act – feel very familiar, and I love that while these stories are perhaps a bit less gritty and angsty than her usual offerings, they still have a bit of an edge and are not drowning in syrup. Eagle-eyed readers will spot cameos by and references to characters from the wider Garrett-verse – Tam and Bhodi play important secondary roles here, we revisit Galen’s friend Logan ( Christmas on Firefly Hill ) – and Galen himself has briefly appeared in some of the Rebel Kings books.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a sexy and emotional slow-burn romance wrapped around a lovely story about family, friendship, exploration and belonging that strikes just the right balance between angst, humour, hurt/comfort vibes and festive cheer. I enjoyed it and am happy to recommend it.
If, like me, you’re not the biggest fan of the schmalzy, Hallmark-y Christmas romances that proliferate at this time of year, then Garrett Leigh’s Christmas on Cosmic Avenue could be just what you’re looking for. It’s funny and snarky and warm; and it’s festive without being over-the-top, which makes for a perfect seasonal love story as far as I’m concerned.
Sab Dubois – brother of Tam from Christmas On Stardust Lane (this town – now called Everwyld - has the most wonderful street names!) - is a single dad to two-year-old Esme and has been on his own for over a year, ever since his cheating ex walked out after he told her he thought he might be bisexual. She just laughed in his face, called him “a cokehead with a fried brain”, and went out and screwed someone else - one of the many side pieces Sab had known nothing about. Now he has full custody of Esme and although being a single parent isn’t the easiest thing in the world, he adores his daughter and has plenty of support from Tam and his husband Bhodi (a nurse), who live just a few streets away.
He doesn’t have much of a social life, though, no matter that Tam and Bhodi have Esme overnight once a week and encourage him to get himself back out there and into the dating scene. Sab knows he could to talk to his brother about the shift in his sexuality, but he just can’t; he’s a recovering addict, was so fucked up for so many years, and hasn’t got over what he did not only to himself but also to Tam – and doesn’t want to keep using Tam as an emotional crutch. He’ll tell him – at some point, maybe when he’s more sure about it himself. Just… not yet.
But perhaps being sure, or finding out for sure, if he really is into men as well as women is something he should do before making any life-altering decisions or confessions. Sab has never been one for casual sex, but thinks that maybe hooking up with adventurous MF/bi couples is the way to ease himself in (so to speak) to man-on-man sex rather than setting himself up on the brutal meat-market of Grindr, so he downloads a swingers app, creates a profile and starts swiping.
Firefighter Galen McCarthy is still on light-duty following a serious on-the-job incident eighteen months earlier that almost killed him. So his role at the scene of the fire at the local chippy is mostly directing traffic by speaking to drivers in the long queue of vehicles created by the closed road and asking them to wait or find an alternative route. When he taps on the window of the white van and looks inside, he recognises the gorgeous guy in the driver’s seat as his neighbour-from-over-the-back-fence and is surprised – but not displeased – to see that he’s been scrolling through a familiar-looking app. Cheekily, Galen leans in, takes the phone, opens Google Play and downloads a different app, telling Sab it’s a better one - a big grin on his face as he turns to walk away. It’s been quite a while since a bloke has really turned his head… the least he can do is to find him online later and welcome him to FlingIt – isn’t it?
Sab doesn’t recognise the brawny, auburn-haired firefighter with the dazzling smile, but he can’t stop thinking about him and has been alternating between hoping he’d message him on the app and berating himself for being ridiculous ever since the previous afternoon. So when he sees Galen’s message Sab goes into a bit of a tailspin, the anxiety and low grade panic he’s experienced ever since his ex mocked and ridiculed him taking hold and tying his insides into knots before he can tell himself to calm down. The guy has given him a tip and sent him a message – that’s all. It doesn’t mean he’s looking for the same thing as Sab.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a beautifully written story of two men slowly falling into a relationship and finding the kind of strong emotional connection neither of them had expected, or, in Galen’s case, wanted. He’s never been interested in relationships and has been happily playing the field – so offering some advice and maybe some hands-on experience to a newbie like Sab is easy. But when the intense attraction simmering between them turns into shared meals, long walks and hugs he never knew he craved… there’s nothing easy about it, and Sab’s presence in his life has Galen questioning everything he thought he knew about himself.
Sab has been through a lot and hasn’t made it to the other side completely unscathed, but he’s been sober for over five years and is determined to stay that way. That isn’t to say he doesn’t still have demons to slay; his ex did a number on him and her comments about his sexuality, together with Sab’s view of his past addiction as a symptom of weakness, have made it easy for him to believe himself unworthy of being someone’s choice of partner. With his rational mind, he knows that’s not true. But emotionally… he’s frozen into inaction and prone to second-and-third guessing everything.
I really liked Sab and Galen; their baggage means both of them are given to overthinking, but they’re down-to-earth, multi-layered characters who are absolutely perfect for each other – if only they can get out of their own way and let themselves see it. Their romance is nicely developed, full of chemistry and yearning, and although Galen’s schedule and Sab’s single-parenthood make it difficult for them to find time to get together at first, that gives them time to get to know each other a little through messages, and the ease with which they eventually become closer is incredibly well done. There’s some miscommunication going on thanks to their presence on a swingers’ app (both of them thinking that what the other really wants is to be hooking up with couples-and-more, and that they’re just a temporary stop on the way to that), and I have to say that it does take a bit too long for Galen and Sab to pull their heads out of their respective arses and admit what they want and how they feel, both to themselves and each other. And then the tension is really amped up when the dangerous realities of Galen’s job are suddenly made stark and the possibility arises that maybe they’re already too late.
I look forward to Garrett Leigh’s Christmas stories each year because I know they’re likely to suit me; the setting, the characters and the way they speak and act – feel very familiar, and I love that while these stories are perhaps a bit less gritty and angsty than her usual offerings, they still have a bit of an edge and are not drowning in syrup. Eagle-eyed readers will spot cameos by and references to characters from the wider Garrett-verse – Tam and Bhodi play important secondary roles here, we revisit Galen’s friend Logan ( Christmas on Firefly Hill ) – and Galen himself has briefly appeared in some of the Rebel Kings books.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a sexy and emotional slow-burn romance wrapped around a lovely story about family, friendship, exploration and belonging that strikes just the right balance between angst, humour, hurt/comfort vibes and festive cheer. I enjoyed it and am happy to recommend it.
Read
December 19, 2025I don’t think it’s for me
December 9, 2025
2.5 stars: I’ve been reading Garrett Leigh’s books since she published the first installment of the Roads series. It’s pretty rare that I don’t love something she’s written. For some reason, this story didn’t ever grab me. I loved Sab and Galen in the other books when they were side characters. I was looking forward to their stories and was stoked when GL announced they would be a couple. This just didn’t work for me.
The constant rumination and non-communication drove me nuts. It also brought me out of the story whenever Sab would speak French, and it’s not even a foreign language for me. My father used to speak to me in French all the time. I loved little Esme and it was good to revisit the other characters like Tam, Bhodi, and even Nash from the Rebel Kings series. The writing was good but unfortunately, the story didn’t hit right for me. This has received great reviews, so I know I’m an outlier.
The constant rumination and non-communication drove me nuts. It also brought me out of the story whenever Sab would speak French, and it’s not even a foreign language for me. My father used to speak to me in French all the time. I loved little Esme and it was good to revisit the other characters like Tam, Bhodi, and even Nash from the Rebel Kings series. The writing was good but unfortunately, the story didn’t hit right for me. This has received great reviews, so I know I’m an outlier.
November 21, 2025
Bloody hell! I have been waiting so long for Galen to get his story, and I wanted him to find someone who deserves him, and Garrett Leigh always seems to know exactly who we want for our main guy.
Sab is perfect in that he’s human. He’s been through a lot, he has his own demons, and he’s coming to terms with a sexuality he’s been ridiculed for. Those comments follow him and stop him from believing he is worthy of being someone’s choice.
Galen has trouble with Christmas and relationships. When Sab comes into his life, he starts to question who he thinks he is. Galen is a firefighter, and each time I read about this man, he’s got me on edge. I think it also has him on edge, and it makes him finally see what he’s missing out on.
Garrett Leigh always knows how to get you feeling every sort of emotion for her characters. From sitting on the edge of your seat to blushing alongside Sab as he learns how to be himself.
Beautiful story as always. A little less intense than the usual stories, but it’s Christmas, we’re allowed to have a perfect ending!
Loved it as always
………………………………………………………….
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
Sab is perfect in that he’s human. He’s been through a lot, he has his own demons, and he’s coming to terms with a sexuality he’s been ridiculed for. Those comments follow him and stop him from believing he is worthy of being someone’s choice.
Galen has trouble with Christmas and relationships. When Sab comes into his life, he starts to question who he thinks he is. Galen is a firefighter, and each time I read about this man, he’s got me on edge. I think it also has him on edge, and it makes him finally see what he’s missing out on.
Garrett Leigh always knows how to get you feeling every sort of emotion for her characters. From sitting on the edge of your seat to blushing alongside Sab as he learns how to be himself.
Beautiful story as always. A little less intense than the usual stories, but it’s Christmas, we’re allowed to have a perfect ending!
Loved it as always
………………………………………………………….
I received an ARC from GRR, and this is my honest review.
January 5, 2026
DNF at 51%
It's been awhile and I tried to like both MCs, but I can't.
I don't remember if I ever dnf-ing Garret's books. But there's a first time for anything, I guess.
The swinger apps were a bit suspicious and the French I admit was annoying.
This one didn't work for me.
It's been awhile and I tried to like both MCs, but I can't.
I don't remember if I ever dnf-ing Garret's books. But there's a first time for anything, I guess.
The swinger apps were a bit suspicious and the French I admit was annoying.
This one didn't work for me.
December 3, 2025
5 stars
Garrett Leigh doesn't usually write low angst stories, but when she does, they're always extremely emotional and wondrous. This one made no exception.
We already met both MCs: Gale is Logan Halliwell's best friend, he was the firefighter who saved Nash McGovern in the car crash. In this book, Galen is dealing with Logan moving away, he feels alone and the hookup scene is not as satisfying as it used to be. I adored their Facetime calls, when Logan always pushed Galen to do something different and better for himself.
Sab is Tam's brother and his story is partially told in Tam's book (Christmas On Stardust Lane). He and his adorable daughter Esme are Sab's whole world and after his addiction to drugs and his marriage with an emotionally abusing wife, Sab holds on to them even more.
But even if he's very close to both his big brother and his husband Bodhi, Sab can't find the courage to confide in them about his sexual awakening. He has serious self esteem issues, thanks to his ex's abuse, and while he craves intimacy with a man, he's not ready to jump into hookups.
A casual meeting with Gale, handsome, outgoing, sexy Galen, will give Sab the push he needed to make the first steps. They start casually seeing each other, but their connection goes beyond sex: in fact the "teaching" parts are undeniably hot, but they don't happen too often and they don't define their relationship that is more built on kisses, hugs, texts, cuddles on the couch and massages.
There's a bit of reticence about dating, both of them have their fears and hang-ups that prevented them from asking for what they really wanted. But it's a romance, so it's all good in the end.
I adored every cuddle, every soft spoken word, every hug that Sab and Galen exchanged, they make this story very high on the intimacy level.
I love when Garrett Leigh gives us stories like this one. And I can't wait for the next, that will be about Raf the mechanic and the mysterious baker who makes the amazing croissants Sab and Tam eat continuously.
Highly recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
Garrett Leigh doesn't usually write low angst stories, but when she does, they're always extremely emotional and wondrous. This one made no exception.
We already met both MCs: Gale is Logan Halliwell's best friend, he was the firefighter who saved Nash McGovern in the car crash. In this book, Galen is dealing with Logan moving away, he feels alone and the hookup scene is not as satisfying as it used to be. I adored their Facetime calls, when Logan always pushed Galen to do something different and better for himself.
Sab is Tam's brother and his story is partially told in Tam's book (Christmas On Stardust Lane). He and his adorable daughter Esme are Sab's whole world and after his addiction to drugs and his marriage with an emotionally abusing wife, Sab holds on to them even more.
But even if he's very close to both his big brother and his husband Bodhi, Sab can't find the courage to confide in them about his sexual awakening. He has serious self esteem issues, thanks to his ex's abuse, and while he craves intimacy with a man, he's not ready to jump into hookups.
A casual meeting with Gale, handsome, outgoing, sexy Galen, will give Sab the push he needed to make the first steps. They start casually seeing each other, but their connection goes beyond sex: in fact the "teaching" parts are undeniably hot, but they don't happen too often and they don't define their relationship that is more built on kisses, hugs, texts, cuddles on the couch and massages.
There's a bit of reticence about dating, both of them have their fears and hang-ups that prevented them from asking for what they really wanted. But it's a romance, so it's all good in the end.
I adored every cuddle, every soft spoken word, every hug that Sab and Galen exchanged, they make this story very high on the intimacy level.
I love when Garrett Leigh gives us stories like this one. And I can't wait for the next, that will be about Raf the mechanic and the mysterious baker who makes the amazing croissants Sab and Tam eat continuously.
Highly recommended.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 27, 2025
Cute and sweet Christmas story.
December 4, 2025
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue is a standalone holiday novel by Garrett Leigh. Although it features cameos from Leigh’s Rebel Kings MC series, and ties in to Christmas On Stardust Lane and Christmas on Firefly Hill, you don’t need to have read any of those to enjoy Christmas on Cosmic Avenue (although I absolutely live for the cameos). Here’s what you can expect from Galen and Sab:
🎄 MM contemporary holiday romance
🎄 First person dual point of view
🎄 Guaranteed happily ever after
🎄 Open door spice
🎄 Neighbours to lovers
🎄 First times and sexual discovery
🎄 The wounded firefighter and the single dad
🎄 Angst and hurt/comfort
🎄 Addiction recovery/healing
🎄 Found family
Ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that Christmas on Cosmic Avenue discusses addiction recovery. Please take care of yourself while reading.
I can never get enough of Garrett’s writing, and her holiday romances have become a December staple for sure! Last year, we got to know Tam, Sab’s brother in Christmas on Stardust Lane. And we all remember Galen, Logan’s best friend in Christmas on Firefly Hill (and can I just say I think the man is the best book boyfriend material). In Christmas on Cosmic Avenue, the wounded firefighter meets the single dad who is a little hesitant to go after what he truly wants. This book was filled with heart, steam, and the hurt/comfort we all know and love from Garrett Leigh. This definitely wasn’t as angsty as some of her other work, but prepared to be frustrated as these two start hooking up and suppressing their true feelings for one another. I loved both of the main characters’ personalities, but it did feel like they didn’t quite get to know each other very well. Otherwise, this was everything I love from Garrett! Despite the hurt/comfort elements, this book is definitely a warm holiday hug and if you’re a fan of her universe, you absolutely don’t want to miss this one. And the Nash cameo was everything I didn’t even know I needed, thank you Garrett!
I received an advanced review copy from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
🎄 MM contemporary holiday romance
🎄 First person dual point of view
🎄 Guaranteed happily ever after
🎄 Open door spice
🎄 Neighbours to lovers
🎄 First times and sexual discovery
🎄 The wounded firefighter and the single dad
🎄 Angst and hurt/comfort
🎄 Addiction recovery/healing
🎄 Found family
Ensure you review the content and trigger warnings to decide if this book is right for you. Note that Christmas on Cosmic Avenue discusses addiction recovery. Please take care of yourself while reading.
I can never get enough of Garrett’s writing, and her holiday romances have become a December staple for sure! Last year, we got to know Tam, Sab’s brother in Christmas on Stardust Lane. And we all remember Galen, Logan’s best friend in Christmas on Firefly Hill (and can I just say I think the man is the best book boyfriend material). In Christmas on Cosmic Avenue, the wounded firefighter meets the single dad who is a little hesitant to go after what he truly wants. This book was filled with heart, steam, and the hurt/comfort we all know and love from Garrett Leigh. This definitely wasn’t as angsty as some of her other work, but prepared to be frustrated as these two start hooking up and suppressing their true feelings for one another. I loved both of the main characters’ personalities, but it did feel like they didn’t quite get to know each other very well. Otherwise, this was everything I love from Garrett! Despite the hurt/comfort elements, this book is definitely a warm holiday hug and if you’re a fan of her universe, you absolutely don’t want to miss this one. And the Nash cameo was everything I didn’t even know I needed, thank you Garrett!
I received an advanced review copy from Gay Romance Reviews and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 14, 2025
Here is where I throw a bit of a tantrum.
December 4, 2025
3.25 stars. I recommend reading Stardust Lane before this one. You can skip it, but it gives you more insight in Sab's relationship with Charmaine, Esme's mother. Which was one of the problems I had with this book. I wanted more info on what exactly happened to Sab during that relationship. I've read Stardust Lane, so I knew he was couchsurfing at Tam's a lot, but I think this book was too vague on the whole matter. (like that one mention of Charmaine telling Sab she was going to stab him in his sleep. It's never mentioned again, there's no other things like that on page, so it leaves me to guess whether that was an isolated incident, and if she was high out of her mind or seriously meant what she was saying.)
Galen was very sweet and great for Sab, but man, did I wanted to slap him at some point. I got why Sab went along with the whole 'other people' issue. That guy's self esteem was at zero and he thought it would be the only way to keep Galen, but Galen should have known better and he was very selfish during that whole debacle, imo. I think he knew Sab wanted it to be just the two of them, and he specifically said on page he knew Sab would think it was his fault when Galen ran out, but did he reassure the guy, knowing what Sab went through? Of course not, because Galen refused to own up to his feelings. It's better to let Sab think another person doesn't want him than be honest with yourself and your guy. Still a bit salty about that.
So, Firefly Hill remains my favorite of the three. This book was sweet, loved Sab, but I needed more from Galen in the end.
Galen was very sweet and great for Sab, but man, did I wanted to slap him at some point. I got why Sab went along with the whole 'other people' issue. That guy's self esteem was at zero and he thought it would be the only way to keep Galen, but Galen should have known better and he was very selfish during that whole debacle, imo. I think he knew Sab wanted it to be just the two of them, and he specifically said on page he knew Sab would think it was his fault when Galen ran out, but did he reassure the guy, knowing what Sab went through? Of course not, because Galen refused to own up to his feelings. It's better to let Sab think another person doesn't want him than be honest with yourself and your guy. Still a bit salty about that.
So, Firefly Hill remains my favorite of the three. This book was sweet, loved Sab, but I needed more from Galen in the end.
December 19, 2025
**4.5**
Garrett Leigh's Christmas books are one of my favourite things about this time of year! Christmas on Cosmic Avenue has just enough angst and hurt/comfort along with a single dad going through a bi-awakening whilst ensuring everything is the best for his little girl with a little help from his brother and brother-in-law. Galen is just the cherry on top this season as he offers to help Sab with new experiences but one man has never had a relationship, whilst the other is battling internal demons telling him he isn't good enough for anyone.
Even with the feelings and internal angst both men experience, this is such a wonderful and heartwarming romance. Sab would, and has done anything for his little girl but struggles with harsh words that his ex continuously put in his head, and his inability to sit still, whilst occasionally amusing, has darker roots. Galen is still recovering from a bad injury whilst on a job as a firefighter and whilst working hard to get back to full fitness, finds he doesn't want to stay away from the sweetheart that is Sab and his daughter.
A sweet and heartfelt exploration, both physically and emotionally, brings two men together this festive season who maybe don't have to be alone anymore. Fans of Garrett's Christmas books will know both MC's as side characters from the previous books, and previous MCS's appear in this one.
**TW - talk of previous drug use**
Garrett Leigh's Christmas books are one of my favourite things about this time of year! Christmas on Cosmic Avenue has just enough angst and hurt/comfort along with a single dad going through a bi-awakening whilst ensuring everything is the best for his little girl with a little help from his brother and brother-in-law. Galen is just the cherry on top this season as he offers to help Sab with new experiences but one man has never had a relationship, whilst the other is battling internal demons telling him he isn't good enough for anyone.
Even with the feelings and internal angst both men experience, this is such a wonderful and heartwarming romance. Sab would, and has done anything for his little girl but struggles with harsh words that his ex continuously put in his head, and his inability to sit still, whilst occasionally amusing, has darker roots. Galen is still recovering from a bad injury whilst on a job as a firefighter and whilst working hard to get back to full fitness, finds he doesn't want to stay away from the sweetheart that is Sab and his daughter.
A sweet and heartfelt exploration, both physically and emotionally, brings two men together this festive season who maybe don't have to be alone anymore. Fans of Garrett's Christmas books will know both MC's as side characters from the previous books, and previous MCS's appear in this one.
**TW - talk of previous drug use**
November 26, 2025
Garrett Leigh writes magical love stories! Absolutely extraordinary. Her characters are always ones you’ll fall utterly in love with and their stories will become my entire personality for the immediate foreseeable future. While her winter tales may not always fit the tried and expected storyline of a holiday romance, the sheer miracle of the season always finds it’s way into the romantic love, platonic love, parental love and found family, making her stories always feel like a wonderful warm hug.
Galen and Sab’s story is absolutely all this. Honestly it’s been impossible to put down since o started it and I did not want it to end. Their first cheeky interaction was epic 🤣. The way Garrett Leigh describes Sab abhorrence for the dating/hook up apps is one that hit quite close to home 😅. However Galen woos him over , ugh their banter was to die for, I was hooked and invested and gobbling each and very word up … smitten.
The way Sab’s evolving sexuality is handled is perfection and the way these two stumble their way into a “teachable “ moment is hot! They are hot, gosh so so hot, this book is hot, did I mention it’s hot 😅. The spice is spicing good.
But also how taken with each other they are, absolute swoon. I deep sighed over these two so so much. They also have a bit of miscommunication but it’s all towards an evolving relationship and makes sense why they are wary. They come with weight and baggage and it takes a moment to set it down, parse it out. I’m so glad it worked out though
Esme is a star, loved seeing Tam and Bodhi and hearing from Logan and from Nashie - absolutely bonus.
If you’re looking for a wonderful hurt comfort, starts with texting, single dad, spicy holiday romance with a ton of found family read this.
Galen and Sab’s story is absolutely all this. Honestly it’s been impossible to put down since o started it and I did not want it to end. Their first cheeky interaction was epic 🤣. The way Garrett Leigh describes Sab abhorrence for the dating/hook up apps is one that hit quite close to home 😅. However Galen woos him over , ugh their banter was to die for, I was hooked and invested and gobbling each and very word up … smitten.
The way Sab’s evolving sexuality is handled is perfection and the way these two stumble their way into a “teachable “ moment is hot! They are hot, gosh so so hot, this book is hot, did I mention it’s hot 😅. The spice is spicing good.
But also how taken with each other they are, absolute swoon. I deep sighed over these two so so much. They also have a bit of miscommunication but it’s all towards an evolving relationship and makes sense why they are wary. They come with weight and baggage and it takes a moment to set it down, parse it out. I’m so glad it worked out though
Esme is a star, loved seeing Tam and Bodhi and hearing from Logan and from Nashie - absolutely bonus.
If you’re looking for a wonderful hurt comfort, starts with texting, single dad, spicy holiday romance with a ton of found family read this.
December 7, 2025
Rating: 4.5
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, holiday, MM
Tropes / tags: hurt / comfort, hooking up to more, single dad
Sab and Galen's story was incredibly sweet and full of the best kind of hurt / comfort!
I've been excited for Sab's story for so long, and it was totally worth the wait! In true Garrett Leigh style, it was an emotional romance, with layered characters, great hurt / comfort and found family.
These two had a lot of sparks between them, and what started as Sab wanting to explore his bisexuality and a possible hookup, quickly turned into feelings. Sab needed someone who was gentle and careful with his heart, and Galen was very patient and understanding about him and his past. I loved their connection, and while their relationship development was a little messy, it all worked out perfectly in the end.
They were both insecure about what they were to each other, and there was a bit of miscommunication going on. There were moments where I wanted to shout at both of them, but despite the frustration, it fit well into their story. The miscommunication wasn't dragged out, and led to some heartfelt confessions.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue was another fantastic holiday romance from Garrett Leigh! I loved Sab and Galen together - they had me instantly captured and I didn't want to put their story down. If you're looking for an emotional and sweet holiday read with wonderful characters, hurt / comfort and found family - this one needs to be on your TBR!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
Steam: 3
PoV: dual, 1st person
Genre: contemporary romance, holiday, MM
Tropes / tags: hurt / comfort, hooking up to more, single dad
Sab and Galen's story was incredibly sweet and full of the best kind of hurt / comfort!
I've been excited for Sab's story for so long, and it was totally worth the wait! In true Garrett Leigh style, it was an emotional romance, with layered characters, great hurt / comfort and found family.
These two had a lot of sparks between them, and what started as Sab wanting to explore his bisexuality and a possible hookup, quickly turned into feelings. Sab needed someone who was gentle and careful with his heart, and Galen was very patient and understanding about him and his past. I loved their connection, and while their relationship development was a little messy, it all worked out perfectly in the end.
They were both insecure about what they were to each other, and there was a bit of miscommunication going on. There were moments where I wanted to shout at both of them, but despite the frustration, it fit well into their story. The miscommunication wasn't dragged out, and led to some heartfelt confessions.
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue was another fantastic holiday romance from Garrett Leigh! I loved Sab and Galen together - they had me instantly captured and I didn't want to put their story down. If you're looking for an emotional and sweet holiday read with wonderful characters, hurt / comfort and found family - this one needs to be on your TBR!
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I received a complimentary copy of this book, and these are my honest thoughts and opinions.
December 3, 2025
ARC Review
*mild spoilers ahead*
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5
This is my second book by Garret Leigh, and from what I’ve read so far, she really has a talent for writing complex, self-deprecating boys who are struggling to put themselves back together.
The story starts with Sab and Galen both at pretty low points in their lives. Each is trying to recover from tough situations: Sab is balancing life after addiction while being a single dad and dealing with some internal struggles and questions about his identity. Meanwhile, Galen is coping with the fallout from a serious injury he got working as a firefighter.
The two meet in a totally random way when Galen stops to give Sab advice about hooking up apps right in the middle of an accident roadblock. They connect right away and fall into a dynamic where Galen helps Sab figure out his sexual awakening, all while he tries to stick to his “no attachments” policy. Honestly, both of them do a pretty terrible job of keeping their distance, and their connection keeps growing even as they try to put up their own walls.
Both guys are pros at self-sabotage, so there are a lot of misunderstandings and mishaps along the way. That seems to be a running theme in Garret Leigh’s books (at least from what I’ve read so far): her characters go through a lot of self-doubt and struggle to believe they deserve happiness.
Sometimes this can get a bit frustrating, but it’s also what makes the payoff so satisfying, you really end up rooting for these guys to get out of their own way and let themselves be happy.
The family dynamics in this book are fantastic. The bond between Esme and Galen is adorable, and honestly, I wish there had been even more of it. The sibling relationship between Sab and Tam is another highlight, but what really got me was how Sab is such a great dad to little Esme, it seriously makes you fall for him.
Like I said, this is only my second Garret Leigh book, but just like when I read Just This Once (my introduction to her work), it’s clear that all her stories are set in the same universe, with the Rebel Kings series at the center, plus some annual holiday standalones. Most of the side characters already have their own books, too. In fact, I’ve seen lots of reviews saying people were actually waiting for Galen and Sab (who apparently were side characters in previous books) to finally get their own stories. I totally enjoyed this one as a standalone though, and really believe you definitely don’t need to read the previous books to follow along. But I think knowing the backstories would make it even better. I’m loving the author’s writing, so I’m definitely going to dive deeper into this world. I already have some Rebel Kings waiting for me on my TBR, so I’ll keep you posted on how that goes!
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I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
*mild spoilers ahead*
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️,5
This is my second book by Garret Leigh, and from what I’ve read so far, she really has a talent for writing complex, self-deprecating boys who are struggling to put themselves back together.
The story starts with Sab and Galen both at pretty low points in their lives. Each is trying to recover from tough situations: Sab is balancing life after addiction while being a single dad and dealing with some internal struggles and questions about his identity. Meanwhile, Galen is coping with the fallout from a serious injury he got working as a firefighter.
The two meet in a totally random way when Galen stops to give Sab advice about hooking up apps right in the middle of an accident roadblock. They connect right away and fall into a dynamic where Galen helps Sab figure out his sexual awakening, all while he tries to stick to his “no attachments” policy. Honestly, both of them do a pretty terrible job of keeping their distance, and their connection keeps growing even as they try to put up their own walls.
Both guys are pros at self-sabotage, so there are a lot of misunderstandings and mishaps along the way. That seems to be a running theme in Garret Leigh’s books (at least from what I’ve read so far): her characters go through a lot of self-doubt and struggle to believe they deserve happiness.
Sometimes this can get a bit frustrating, but it’s also what makes the payoff so satisfying, you really end up rooting for these guys to get out of their own way and let themselves be happy.
The family dynamics in this book are fantastic. The bond between Esme and Galen is adorable, and honestly, I wish there had been even more of it. The sibling relationship between Sab and Tam is another highlight, but what really got me was how Sab is such a great dad to little Esme, it seriously makes you fall for him.
Like I said, this is only my second Garret Leigh book, but just like when I read Just This Once (my introduction to her work), it’s clear that all her stories are set in the same universe, with the Rebel Kings series at the center, plus some annual holiday standalones. Most of the side characters already have their own books, too. In fact, I’ve seen lots of reviews saying people were actually waiting for Galen and Sab (who apparently were side characters in previous books) to finally get their own stories. I totally enjoyed this one as a standalone though, and really believe you definitely don’t need to read the previous books to follow along. But I think knowing the backstories would make it even better. I’m loving the author’s writing, so I’m definitely going to dive deeper into this world. I already have some Rebel Kings waiting for me on my TBR, so I’ll keep you posted on how that goes!
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I received an ARC of this book from GRR and this is my honest review.
December 5, 2025
It’s so sweet and so soft. Galen is kind and patient and loving. Seb is terrified but such a good man. And this is truly so painfully dull. This should’ve been a very short novella. There just isn’t much of an actual story here.
The inclusion of a swingers app ruined it and just felt out of touch with the 2 MCs. It was a really weird and unappealing plot device that I was questioning in the blurb and then confirmed while reading.
The inclusion of a swingers app ruined it and just felt out of touch with the 2 MCs. It was a really weird and unappealing plot device that I was questioning in the blurb and then confirmed while reading.
December 8, 2025
(I received an ARC for this book)
Trigger Warnings include:
drug use/addiction/recovering addict, firefighter accident on the job-described on page in detail, mentions of pneumonia & hospitalization , discussions of swinging
This is a cute Christmas read…in its own, heavy heart, big emotions kind of way. (Definitely just as heartfelt and heart-wrenching as this author’s other books!) It is perfectly connected to some of my other favorite characters. Sab and Galen are a great addition to my never-ending list of reasons why I keep reading this author! They’re both deep in the emotional trenches. Deep in their thoughts, their doubts, their insecurities, their own faults. Do they deserve each other? Can they be enough? I wish to shake them and say “YES!”. But I loved experiencing their journey to figuring out their worth. Sab and Galen balanced each other out. I didn’t realize how easily attached I had become to them, how deeply I was cheering them on until I CRIED.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You seem like you’d look good anywhere.”
• “You’re whatever you want to be.”
• “As far as French things go, I’d rather eat you.”
• “I meant every fecking word.”
• “I need all of you.”
6/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Friends to Lovers
7/10 Single Parent
7/10 Slow Burn
6/10 Series
Below are the links to my reviews for the books/characters tied to this one.
This is my review for Christmas on Stardust Lane
This is my review for Unholy Trinity
Trigger Warnings include:
drug use/addiction/recovering addict, firefighter accident on the job-described on page in detail, mentions of pneumonia & hospitalization , discussions of swinging
This is a cute Christmas read…in its own, heavy heart, big emotions kind of way. (Definitely just as heartfelt and heart-wrenching as this author’s other books!) It is perfectly connected to some of my other favorite characters. Sab and Galen are a great addition to my never-ending list of reasons why I keep reading this author! They’re both deep in the emotional trenches. Deep in their thoughts, their doubts, their insecurities, their own faults. Do they deserve each other? Can they be enough? I wish to shake them and say “YES!”. But I loved experiencing their journey to figuring out their worth. Sab and Galen balanced each other out. I didn’t realize how easily attached I had become to them, how deeply I was cheering them on until I CRIED.
My Favorite Quotes:
• “You seem like you’d look good anywhere.”
• “You’re whatever you want to be.”
• “As far as French things go, I’d rather eat you.”
• “I meant every fecking word.”
• “I need all of you.”
6/10 Dirty Birdy
6/10 Friends to Lovers
7/10 Single Parent
7/10 Slow Burn
6/10 Series
Below are the links to my reviews for the books/characters tied to this one.
This is my review for Christmas on Stardust Lane
This is my review for Unholy Trinity
December 1, 2025
This is a gorgeous, slow burn romance between firefighter Galen and single dad Sab - both of whom we’ve met before in Garrett Leigh’s earlier Christmas books.
I’ve been dying for Galen’s story after the glimpses we had in previous books, most memorably helping save Nash after the accident in Forever Blessed (Rebel Kings). Galen did not disappoint as the lead in his own story and the pairing of him with the shy Sab, who we gradually see get braver was “chef’s kiss perfection”.
Garrett Leigh has a way of writing stories that sit within a world where die-hard fans are gifted with connections to past characters and series, but they still work perfectly well as a standalone if you’ve not read anything else by her before.
Due to Galen & Sab’s relationships with main characters from the previous books I expected to see lots of Logan (Galen’s best friend) and Tam (Sab’s brother) but there’s also a fair amount of Rebel King (and specifically Nash - loved his guest appearance) content too, which will keep fans of that series happy now it’s finished. These Christmas books are definitely lighter than the Rebel Kings books, but the HEAs are still hard won and well deserved.
If like me you’ve been reading this author’s books for years, there’s a sneaky reference to a past character from one of the older books - eagle eyed readers might spot it and click who Sab’s angel/Good Samaritan was. This is just one of the treats waiting for you in this book.
As with other favourite authors that gift us once a year with a great Christmas story, my only negative after reading this is having to wait a year for the next one! It’s only early December but this one is going to take some beating to not be my favourite read.
I’ve been dying for Galen’s story after the glimpses we had in previous books, most memorably helping save Nash after the accident in Forever Blessed (Rebel Kings). Galen did not disappoint as the lead in his own story and the pairing of him with the shy Sab, who we gradually see get braver was “chef’s kiss perfection”.
Garrett Leigh has a way of writing stories that sit within a world where die-hard fans are gifted with connections to past characters and series, but they still work perfectly well as a standalone if you’ve not read anything else by her before.
Due to Galen & Sab’s relationships with main characters from the previous books I expected to see lots of Logan (Galen’s best friend) and Tam (Sab’s brother) but there’s also a fair amount of Rebel King (and specifically Nash - loved his guest appearance) content too, which will keep fans of that series happy now it’s finished. These Christmas books are definitely lighter than the Rebel Kings books, but the HEAs are still hard won and well deserved.
If like me you’ve been reading this author’s books for years, there’s a sneaky reference to a past character from one of the older books - eagle eyed readers might spot it and click who Sab’s angel/Good Samaritan was. This is just one of the treats waiting for you in this book.
As with other favourite authors that gift us once a year with a great Christmas story, my only negative after reading this is having to wait a year for the next one! It’s only early December but this one is going to take some beating to not be my favourite read.
December 16, 2025
I usually love Garrett Leigh’s books. It's pretty rare that I don't love something she's written.
For some reason, this story didn't ever grab me. I loved Sab and Galen in the other books when they were side characters. I was looking forward to their stories and was stoked when GL announced they would be a couple. This just didn't work for me.
The constant rumination and non-communication drove me nuts. It also brought me out of the story whenever Sab would speak French, and it's not even a foreign language for me. My father used to speak to me in French all the time. I loved little Esme and it was good to revisit the other characters like Tam, Bhodi, and even Nash from the Rebel Kings series. The writing was good but unfortunately, the story didn't hit right for me. This has received great reviews, so I know I'm an outlier. Good buddy read with my sister even though we both had the same issues with this book. Looking forward to other books she’s written. I’m more like Galen with the speaking French. 💜💜💜
For some reason, this story didn't ever grab me. I loved Sab and Galen in the other books when they were side characters. I was looking forward to their stories and was stoked when GL announced they would be a couple. This just didn't work for me.
The constant rumination and non-communication drove me nuts. It also brought me out of the story whenever Sab would speak French, and it's not even a foreign language for me. My father used to speak to me in French all the time. I loved little Esme and it was good to revisit the other characters like Tam, Bhodi, and even Nash from the Rebel Kings series. The writing was good but unfortunately, the story didn't hit right for me. This has received great reviews, so I know I'm an outlier. Good buddy read with my sister even though we both had the same issues with this book. Looking forward to other books she’s written. I’m more like Galen with the speaking French. 💜💜💜
December 4, 2025
Garrett Leigh is a master at weaving together people and their stories that leave me with the silliest of grins on my face every. single. time.
This time around we have Sab and Galen, both of whom we have met in previous books. You don't NEED to have read the previous books in this series, or any of Rebel MC books, but I would highly recommend doing so prior to reading this book because there are some character cameos etc that you will appreciate all the more if you have that background context to go off.
Sab and Galen were that perfect level of hurt comfort that gently squeezes at your heart strings without crushing them to a pulp. Their initial interactions, both in real life and on the swingers app that they both have, were the perfect blend of awkward, sweet and spicy. Galen was exactly what Sab needed in that moment when he was trying to build the courage to take the first tentative step in exploring aspects of his sexuality that he hadn't previously thought about.
Go into this expecting an amazing balance of spicy times, quieter moments, miscommunication, longing, confusion, denial and sweet moments between Sab and Galen as well as Sab, Galen and Esme (Sab's daughter). You're heart will melt and your frustrations might rise, especially when they get to the pointy end of the stick, because neither of these guys is the best at expressing themselves but don't worry. They get there in the end and it's perfect, satisfying and sweet.
Be warned. There are a lot of references to delicious pastries such as croissants with nutella throughout and you will get cravings by the end of the book. Embrace it. You deserve a damn croissant.
As always I am absolutely hanging for the next book. It's going to be an absolute winner winner chicken dinner if Garrett's previous track record is anything to go by. lol.
Check triggers as usual before diving in.
ARC copy supplied by GRR for an honest review. This is my full and honest review of Christmas on Cosmic Avenue.
This time around we have Sab and Galen, both of whom we have met in previous books. You don't NEED to have read the previous books in this series, or any of Rebel MC books, but I would highly recommend doing so prior to reading this book because there are some character cameos etc that you will appreciate all the more if you have that background context to go off.
Sab and Galen were that perfect level of hurt comfort that gently squeezes at your heart strings without crushing them to a pulp. Their initial interactions, both in real life and on the swingers app that they both have, were the perfect blend of awkward, sweet and spicy. Galen was exactly what Sab needed in that moment when he was trying to build the courage to take the first tentative step in exploring aspects of his sexuality that he hadn't previously thought about.
Go into this expecting an amazing balance of spicy times, quieter moments, miscommunication, longing, confusion, denial and sweet moments between Sab and Galen as well as Sab, Galen and Esme (Sab's daughter). You're heart will melt and your frustrations might rise, especially when they get to the pointy end of the stick, because neither of these guys is the best at expressing themselves but don't worry. They get there in the end and it's perfect, satisfying and sweet.
Be warned. There are a lot of references to delicious pastries such as croissants with nutella throughout and you will get cravings by the end of the book. Embrace it. You deserve a damn croissant.
As always I am absolutely hanging for the next book. It's going to be an absolute winner winner chicken dinner if Garrett's previous track record is anything to go by. lol.
Check triggers as usual before diving in.
ARC copy supplied by GRR for an honest review. This is my full and honest review of Christmas on Cosmic Avenue.
December 4, 2025
Christmas on Cosmic Avenue by Garrett Leigh is book 3 in The Everwyld Collection. We met Sab in the last book about Tam and Bohdi. I loved him then and have been looking forward to his story. Sab has had a rough time, but he absolutely adores his baby girl, Esme. Sab meets Galen and the two of them are attracted to each other though Galen does not do relationships. He offers to help Sab figure out the swingers app. I really, really loved these two together and it was a five star read until about half way through. Galen got on my nerves how he kept pushing Sab away. I understood Sab’s wariness (he was new to men and he had his daughter to consider), but Galen was supposed to be the experienced one and he often left poor Sab feeling hurt and confused. Thankfully, he got his act together. I do enjoy the author’s writing quite a bit. It is emotional and dreamy. I am already looking forward to next year's story!
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
I received an ARC from GRR for my honest review.
January 9, 2026
This was so cute I wish I read it before christmas so it would have been more in the season lol
I love all of Garrett's christmas books and how they are all connected in a way. I really enjoyed Sab and Galen's relationship and how they started so tentatively but how sweet and tender Galen was the entire time. I liked that they both did eventually confess, and while mutual noncommunication isn't something I love I feel like it worked for them as a plot device because they both had their reasons for being hesitant. Though, I do wish we had gotten to know more about Galen? I feel like I didn't fully understand his hesitancy toward a confession of feelings whereas the fear of rejection on Sab's end felt like it had been established as his issue.
Besides that I enjoyed it a lot!
I love all of Garrett's christmas books and how they are all connected in a way. I really enjoyed Sab and Galen's relationship and how they started so tentatively but how sweet and tender Galen was the entire time. I liked that they both did eventually confess, and while mutual noncommunication isn't something I love I feel like it worked for them as a plot device because they both had their reasons for being hesitant. Though, I do wish we had gotten to know more about Galen? I feel like I didn't fully understand his hesitancy toward a confession of feelings whereas the fear of rejection on Sab's end felt like it had been established as his issue.
Besides that I enjoyed it a lot!
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