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Silver Shoals #1
Deck the Hulls: Silver Shoals
This Christmas, he’s hiding more than his identity…
Fresh from a life tangled with the Greek mob in LA, Adam Sgouros is starting over in witness protection—but he feels unmoored in his new small-town existence. When a sudden need to dispose of a body without drawing attention arises (Not his fault! He can explain!), Adam realizes his first Christmas in the sleepy, wintery little town of Silver Shoals is shaping up to be anything but merry.
Elijah Jensen has always been an optimist, but this year, even he’s struggling to keep his head above water. A head-cold from hell and a boat that’s falling apart at the seams seem determined to sink his holiday spirit, and all he wants is to get through the season without any more complications. Complications like a musclebound ex-gangster hijacking his boat (Accidentally! He can explain!)—and taking him along for the ride.
Stranded on the water by a snowstorm, this unlikely pair must navigate through a holiday filled with danger, unexpected warmth, and enough secrets to sink them both. Can Adam's tough exterior thaw under the force of Eli's unyielding optimism, or will the storm—and Adam’s past—prove too much to weather?
Set course for a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM novella with a comedic noir twist. Featuring a relationship between a cisgender male and transgender male main character, Deck the Hulls promises a small-town holiday romance full of festive mayhem, surprising sparks, and a love that just might break through even the iciest of hearts.
Brief mentions of unsupportive family and past relationships, references to addiction and enabling, light gore.
Fresh from a life tangled with the Greek mob in LA, Adam Sgouros is starting over in witness protection—but he feels unmoored in his new small-town existence. When a sudden need to dispose of a body without drawing attention arises (Not his fault! He can explain!), Adam realizes his first Christmas in the sleepy, wintery little town of Silver Shoals is shaping up to be anything but merry.
Elijah Jensen has always been an optimist, but this year, even he’s struggling to keep his head above water. A head-cold from hell and a boat that’s falling apart at the seams seem determined to sink his holiday spirit, and all he wants is to get through the season without any more complications. Complications like a musclebound ex-gangster hijacking his boat (Accidentally! He can explain!)—and taking him along for the ride.
Stranded on the water by a snowstorm, this unlikely pair must navigate through a holiday filled with danger, unexpected warmth, and enough secrets to sink them both. Can Adam's tough exterior thaw under the force of Eli's unyielding optimism, or will the storm—and Adam’s past—prove too much to weather?
Set course for a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity MM novella with a comedic noir twist. Featuring a relationship between a cisgender male and transgender male main character, Deck the Hulls promises a small-town holiday romance full of festive mayhem, surprising sparks, and a love that just might break through even the iciest of hearts.
Brief mentions of unsupportive family and past relationships, references to addiction and enabling, light gore.
Audible Audio
Published December 5, 2025
44 people are currently reading
205 people want to read
About the author
Kat Cassidy
9 books41 followersKat Cassidy is a romance novelist. She’s a dreamer, a schemer and, above all else, a believer in true love. She lives in Canada with her husband, her kids, and her lovable mutt, and she likes loud guitars and strong IPAs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 150 reviews
November 8, 2024
✨ARC REVIEW✨
Cute short novella about a ex mobster in witness protection that messes up a teeny tiny bit when he thinks he has to dispose of a body and hijack a ship. Sadly, the ship (The Trans Atlantic, love the name forever) has its captain on board with a cold. Various shenanigans ensue (a storm, a couple of secrets revealed) all the while these two have to cooperate to survive. Of course, they fall in love and live happily ever after.
As always, Extra Love for a trans MC who is bossy and caring.
Cute short novella about a ex mobster in witness protection that messes up a teeny tiny bit when he thinks he has to dispose of a body and hijack a ship. Sadly, the ship (The Trans Atlantic, love the name forever) has its captain on board with a cold. Various shenanigans ensue (a storm, a couple of secrets revealed) all the while these two have to cooperate to survive. Of course, they fall in love and live happily ever after.
As always, Extra Love for a trans MC who is bossy and caring.
November 16, 2024
So I’m not sure what to say about this book. It started out quite good and intrigued me a lot. However, it quickly went into unbelievable territory and unfortunately never left it. I know it’s fiction and we need to let some things go but it was just a bit too much.
Overall Adam (Alex) and Eli kept me interested but there are so many things I wish we had been able to see. A discussion about Eli being trans and his insecurities instead of just side comments that may or may not have been mentioning it (although I did like that Eli being a trans man was not the main plot line). Any kind of intimacy would have been great too.
The plot though unbelievable was fun so if you are looking for an interesting story with little romance (zero spice) with some action then it’s worth a try!
Overall Adam (Alex) and Eli kept me interested but there are so many things I wish we had been able to see. A discussion about Eli being trans and his insecurities instead of just side comments that may or may not have been mentioning it (although I did like that Eli being a trans man was not the main plot line). Any kind of intimacy would have been great too.
The plot though unbelievable was fun so if you are looking for an interesting story with little romance (zero spice) with some action then it’s worth a try!
December 3, 2024
I almost DNF after Alex (Adam) thought he killed a man and then stole a boat. It did get better and became a nice (if different) Christmas story. I have to admit by being touched by the ending.
November 14, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
"It’s hard to imagine a pivot from “I stole your boat and drove it into a blizzard” to “Did you want to grab coffee sometime?” especially when you needed to sneak a corpse disposal somewhere in there."
.
This is a great novella holiday romance that was perfect for kicking off my holiday season reads!
Alex is built like a bruiser and comes off like one even though he's a softie at heart. He's trying to do the right thing but always seems to make the wrong decision and sometimes , like attempting to dispose of a body that isn't dead , and those mistakes aren't easily fixed. Eli is a sweetheart , I mean the 95% of the time we spend with him he's suffering from a terrible could but still manages to be kind , strong willed and have a sense of humor .
I was almost done before I realized there was no steam 😂 because these two were the level of precious with each other that I didn't even notice .
Overall, Deck the Hulls by Kat Cassidy is great holiday romance between an ex mobster trying to start over again in WITSEC and the man whose boat he stole . A quick read with a trans Male MC, no steam but two characters with great chemistry , unexpected humor, a storm at sea, boat malfunctions , not giving up and a happy ending.
Favorite Qoutes:
Favorite Quotes:
Which is actually quite handy when a burly, beefcake Santa has taken your boat for a joyride with you along as an unwilling passenger.
Adam’s batting zero- for- three tonight in the ‘don’t commit crimes’ department.
Meeting Eli feels like a small, rare gift in a life that’s been short on generosity lately.
“Anybody ever told you you’re bossy?” “Just you,” Eli shoots back with a grin, towel- drying his hair until his curls stick out in charming disarray. “But admit it, you kind of like it, don’t you, tough guy?” Adam smirks. “I mean, someone’s gotta keep me in line.”
“I don’t want you doubting that for a second. You are fucking great, Eli, just the way you are. And don’t let anyone, not even yourself, make you think otherwise.”
"It’s hard to imagine a pivot from “I stole your boat and drove it into a blizzard” to “Did you want to grab coffee sometime?” especially when you needed to sneak a corpse disposal somewhere in there."
.
This is a great novella holiday romance that was perfect for kicking off my holiday season reads!
Alex is built like a bruiser and comes off like one even though he's a softie at heart. He's trying to do the right thing but always seems to make the wrong decision and sometimes , like attempting to dispose of a body that isn't dead , and those mistakes aren't easily fixed. Eli is a sweetheart , I mean the 95% of the time we spend with him he's suffering from a terrible could but still manages to be kind , strong willed and have a sense of humor .
I was almost done before I realized there was no steam 😂 because these two were the level of precious with each other that I didn't even notice .
Overall, Deck the Hulls by Kat Cassidy is great holiday romance between an ex mobster trying to start over again in WITSEC and the man whose boat he stole . A quick read with a trans Male MC, no steam but two characters with great chemistry , unexpected humor, a storm at sea, boat malfunctions , not giving up and a happy ending.
Favorite Qoutes:
Favorite Quotes:
Which is actually quite handy when a burly, beefcake Santa has taken your boat for a joyride with you along as an unwilling passenger.
Adam’s batting zero- for- three tonight in the ‘don’t commit crimes’ department.
Meeting Eli feels like a small, rare gift in a life that’s been short on generosity lately.
“Anybody ever told you you’re bossy?” “Just you,” Eli shoots back with a grin, towel- drying his hair until his curls stick out in charming disarray. “But admit it, you kind of like it, don’t you, tough guy?” Adam smirks. “I mean, someone’s gotta keep me in line.”
“I don’t want you doubting that for a second. You are fucking great, Eli, just the way you are. And don’t let anyone, not even yourself, make you think otherwise.”
December 3, 2024
I liked it,but it was too rushed. I feel like we miss out on all important aspects of their relationship.
2.5 rounded up
2.5 rounded up
December 20, 2024
Here's the deal, drink two glasses of wine and then binge read this and it's plausible. Otherwise, after the first 15 pages you will DNF.
November 6, 2024
4.5/5 stars
Deck the Hulls is a queer holiday novella about an ex-mobster and a trans boat captain. On his last straw before failing out of witness protection, Adam accidentally causes a death on Christmas Eve and foolishly decides to dispose of the dead body in the ocean. Unfortunately, the small boat he steals belongs to the very under the weather Elijah. When a blizzard pushes them off course with an engine on its last legs, they must work together to return to shore as sparks fly between them.
This novella was a cutesy romantic comedy while having a surprising amount of depth especially for its short length. I thought the entire concept was delightfully quirky with the totally accidental death and inept attempt at a body dump. There might have been a bit too much details on boating, but it was set entirely on a boat so that’s understandable. And the story ties everything together too neatly, but I am willing to accept that in my romcoms.
Both Adam and Eli were genuinely likable, but I do think we get to know Adam more than Eli. Adam is a man who found himself in a life he didn’t expect but is actively trying to make better for himself. It’s easy to root for him with his earnest desire to turn a new leaf despite some questionable choices. It helps that what happened was just so funny. Eli, meanwhile, is a down on his luck trans man whose gender identity was just a matter of fact and not a point of contention on the book. He is sunshiny and sweet and perhaps too optimistic. Their forced proximity, gumpy/sunshine romance felt authentic despite how quick it developed, especially after their rather deep and heartfelt conversations.
Deck the Hulls is a small town queer romantic comedy that offers a quick festive fix of laughs, ridiculousness, and love.
*Thank you to GRR Tours for the eARC.
Deck the Hulls is a queer holiday novella about an ex-mobster and a trans boat captain. On his last straw before failing out of witness protection, Adam accidentally causes a death on Christmas Eve and foolishly decides to dispose of the dead body in the ocean. Unfortunately, the small boat he steals belongs to the very under the weather Elijah. When a blizzard pushes them off course with an engine on its last legs, they must work together to return to shore as sparks fly between them.
This novella was a cutesy romantic comedy while having a surprising amount of depth especially for its short length. I thought the entire concept was delightfully quirky with the totally accidental death and inept attempt at a body dump. There might have been a bit too much details on boating, but it was set entirely on a boat so that’s understandable. And the story ties everything together too neatly, but I am willing to accept that in my romcoms.
Both Adam and Eli were genuinely likable, but I do think we get to know Adam more than Eli. Adam is a man who found himself in a life he didn’t expect but is actively trying to make better for himself. It’s easy to root for him with his earnest desire to turn a new leaf despite some questionable choices. It helps that what happened was just so funny. Eli, meanwhile, is a down on his luck trans man whose gender identity was just a matter of fact and not a point of contention on the book. He is sunshiny and sweet and perhaps too optimistic. Their forced proximity, gumpy/sunshine romance felt authentic despite how quick it developed, especially after their rather deep and heartfelt conversations.
Deck the Hulls is a small town queer romantic comedy that offers a quick festive fix of laughs, ridiculousness, and love.
*Thank you to GRR Tours for the eARC.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This is a Christmas short that I feel is just a start to Alex and Eli's life
There were a few times whilst I was reading I was kind of "but really?" and it was a bit too much, if that make sense?
I didn't really feel much attraction or spark between them either. I know it took place over such a short time that that did not really have a chance to develop, but even little things like looks and innocent touches felt like they were missing.
It is a good start to what will be an interesting series if we get more in the future.
This is a Christmas short that I feel is just a start to Alex and Eli's life
There were a few times whilst I was reading I was kind of "but really?" and it was a bit too much, if that make sense?
I didn't really feel much attraction or spark between them either. I know it took place over such a short time that that did not really have a chance to develop, but even little things like looks and innocent touches felt like they were missing.
It is a good start to what will be an interesting series if we get more in the future.
November 15, 2025
જ⁀➴
3 stars
-`🎄´-
this book felt like a soap opera in the best way possible. was the plot completely unbelievable and messy? absolutely. did i still eat up every second of it? you betcha.
"thank you."
"for what?" eli murmurs, still smiling, still crying.
"for choosing me,"
this book felt like a soap opera in the best way possible. was the plot completely unbelievable and messy? absolutely. did i still eat up every second of it? you betcha.
December 3, 2024
This was a little Christmas novella that to me started out good then it went a bit choppy and hard to follow at times. It’s still a good little Christmas novella with some great romance.
November 16, 2024
4.5 ⭐
This is a sweet and easy read, that got me in the holiday spirit. Sometimes in the search for the spiciest, steamiest read, I forget that what I’m really looking for at the end of the day is a good old fashioned love story. This was a good reminder.
Adam/Alex is in witness protection in the sleepy, wintry New England town of Sleepy Shoals, hoping to start over, but not sure how, when he bungles his way into commandeering Eli's boat to dispose of a body.
Eli is a trans captain of a failing fishing charter, trying to rebuild his life after a break-up. He falls asleep on his boat, sick with the flu, only to be surprised by a hulking stranger at the helm.
So here we have Adam/Alex and Eli, who wind up together on Eli‘s boat in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay, in a snow storm, on Christmas Eve after They have to work together to get back to land, and they catch feels in the process.
Both Adam/Alex and Eli are misunderstood in their own ways, but they end up being seen by one another. And isn’t that what we all want? So happy holidays to them.
My one gripe is, why did that poor boy have to lay in the bed with wet draws?
For a 100 page novella, there were some great lines, good banter, and a well paced development to the relationship. Both characters were able to share their backstory, so we can invest in their future. Nothing felt rushed, and the author did not try to squeeze too much in; everything was given its due.
There were actually three characters in the story. Adam/Alex, Eli, and the town where they live. Really, the setting, I suppose. The author does a great job of helping you feel like you are really there, painting the picture for you. I swear I was cold reading the entire story, that could just be because I was reading it from Maine, but she did make it sound cold.
CWs
Mentions of past violence
References to disposal of bodies
References to transphobia
References to bod y discomfort/dysmorphia
Tropes
Size difference
Forced proximity
Details
Sexual orientation of either MC not discussed
Cis/trans MCs
No spice
HEA
Quotes:
Maybe this is how Stockholm Syndrome starts.
Eli’s thigh is pressed against his, the kind of accidental contact that shouldn’t mean anything, but somehow feels like everything.
What had the shrink called it? Maladaptive codependency. Adam figures she should. have just cut to the chase and called it glutton for punishment.
Silver Shoals? Eli? That was always a fantasy, the place he had no right, dreaming about, a world men like him, or never meant to touch.
Eli pulls back with a regretful little sniffle, the drapes, another towel over Adam’s lap, a barrier between whatever this moment is in whatever it might have become.
All Adam wants is to become someone Eli would choose.
Each step is slow, measured, the confidence of a man who knows the world bends for him.
He’s anchored in love, buoyed hope.
This is a sweet and easy read, that got me in the holiday spirit. Sometimes in the search for the spiciest, steamiest read, I forget that what I’m really looking for at the end of the day is a good old fashioned love story. This was a good reminder.
Adam/Alex is in witness protection in the sleepy, wintry New England town of Sleepy Shoals, hoping to start over, but not sure how, when he bungles his way into commandeering Eli's boat to dispose of a body.
Eli is a trans captain of a failing fishing charter, trying to rebuild his life after a break-up. He falls asleep on his boat, sick with the flu, only to be surprised by a hulking stranger at the helm.
So here we have Adam/Alex and Eli, who wind up together on Eli‘s boat in the middle of the Chesapeake Bay, in a snow storm, on Christmas Eve after They have to work together to get back to land, and they catch feels in the process.
Both Adam/Alex and Eli are misunderstood in their own ways, but they end up being seen by one another. And isn’t that what we all want? So happy holidays to them.
My one gripe is, why did that poor boy have to lay in the bed with wet draws?
For a 100 page novella, there were some great lines, good banter, and a well paced development to the relationship. Both characters were able to share their backstory, so we can invest in their future. Nothing felt rushed, and the author did not try to squeeze too much in; everything was given its due.
There were actually three characters in the story. Adam/Alex, Eli, and the town where they live. Really, the setting, I suppose. The author does a great job of helping you feel like you are really there, painting the picture for you. I swear I was cold reading the entire story, that could just be because I was reading it from Maine, but she did make it sound cold.
CWs
Mentions of past violence
References to disposal of bodies
References to transphobia
References to bod y discomfort/dysmorphia
Tropes
Size difference
Forced proximity
Details
Sexual orientation of either MC not discussed
Cis/trans MCs
No spice
HEA
Quotes:
Maybe this is how Stockholm Syndrome starts.
Eli’s thigh is pressed against his, the kind of accidental contact that shouldn’t mean anything, but somehow feels like everything.
What had the shrink called it? Maladaptive codependency. Adam figures she should. have just cut to the chase and called it glutton for punishment.
Silver Shoals? Eli? That was always a fantasy, the place he had no right, dreaming about, a world men like him, or never meant to touch.
Eli pulls back with a regretful little sniffle, the drapes, another towel over Adam’s lap, a barrier between whatever this moment is in whatever it might have become.
All Adam wants is to become someone Eli would choose.
Each step is slow, measured, the confidence of a man who knows the world bends for him.
He’s anchored in love, buoyed hope.
November 7, 2024
All Aboard the Love Boat
Deck the Hulls
Kat Cassidy
Silver Shoals #1
Alex Simpson (aka Adam) got himself in trouble with the Greek mob but after seeing things he couldn't live with, turned witness and is in protection.
He's now in a small Massachusetts harbour town called Silver Shoals, after his last town hideaway went wrong.
Thing is, he's hard to hide.
He's six foot four, built like a linebacker and most people seem him as a dumb thug.
Running an errands for his bosses' so at the hardware store he works for, a mix up and a slippery floor had him stealing a boat to try and dump a body.
The boat - The Trans Atlantic - belongs to Eli who is unconscious inside the boat having downed a cold remedy until he stumbles up deck and finds a giant Santa (Adam) steering his boat.
This is a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity Christmas rom com.
It the kind of sequence of events you'd expect in a comedy of errors, but along the way, Eli, the sweet and cute but assertive trans guy chips away at the ex mob guy's tough veneer and the two have to bond together to survive the storm and get the boat back to shore.
Eli is feeling his body dysphoria without his top surgery, he has the added trauma of seeing his ex with his new boyfriend and he's got a stinking cold on top of it.
And Adam is surprisingly sweet and gentle.
It's also genuinely funny and romantic.
I loved these guys and I honestly look forward to reading more of Silver Shoals.
I also want to find out what happened to the other monster we heard about in anecdotal form from Reynolds near the beginning.
It's gay Hallmark with teeth.
Deck the Hulls
Kat Cassidy
Silver Shoals #1
Alex Simpson (aka Adam) got himself in trouble with the Greek mob but after seeing things he couldn't live with, turned witness and is in protection.
He's now in a small Massachusetts harbour town called Silver Shoals, after his last town hideaway went wrong.
Thing is, he's hard to hide.
He's six foot four, built like a linebacker and most people seem him as a dumb thug.
Running an errands for his bosses' so at the hardware store he works for, a mix up and a slippery floor had him stealing a boat to try and dump a body.
The boat - The Trans Atlantic - belongs to Eli who is unconscious inside the boat having downed a cold remedy until he stumbles up deck and finds a giant Santa (Adam) steering his boat.
This is a low heat, grumpy/sunshine, forced proximity Christmas rom com.
It the kind of sequence of events you'd expect in a comedy of errors, but along the way, Eli, the sweet and cute but assertive trans guy chips away at the ex mob guy's tough veneer and the two have to bond together to survive the storm and get the boat back to shore.
Eli is feeling his body dysphoria without his top surgery, he has the added trauma of seeing his ex with his new boyfriend and he's got a stinking cold on top of it.
And Adam is surprisingly sweet and gentle.
It's also genuinely funny and romantic.
I loved these guys and I honestly look forward to reading more of Silver Shoals.
I also want to find out what happened to the other monster we heard about in anecdotal form from Reynolds near the beginning.
It's gay Hallmark with teeth.
November 25, 2024
I met Adam in Kat’s LA Vice book and I was intrigued as to what happened to him after the events in that book. This one is short and sweet. Poor Adam is trying to live a quiet life in witness protection and well he’s not so good at it. Eli is just trying to live his life on his boat when he gets hi-jacked on Christmas Eve in a blizzard. Bad boy ex gangster Adam has more under the surface. He truly is trying to move past his former life and it’s adorable to see this big guy following orders instead of giving them. Eli is more than meets the eye, despite being 80 pounds or so smaller than Adam, he puts him right in his place and tells him who’s captaining this boat and I love it! Sorry he’s my favorite, he’s got some great one liner responses that had me giggling to myself. This is a fast paced, quick and easy read. The story flows nicely and ends with my favorite kind of epilogue!
December 11, 2024
This book is entirely ridiculous, but fun the whole way through. Adam (aka Alex) is in witness protection after squealing on the Greek mob. But this poor guy just can't seem to shake off his past, and stumbles into one difficult situation after another! Like accidentally killing a grocery store clerk and stealing a boat to dump the body, only to accidentally add kidnapping to the mix when it turns out the boat's very sick (and very sexy) owner/captain is still on board. Oops!
There's one certain moment where Eli says something to Adam and Adam just sort of... collapses in on himself and gives up, and it just BROKE my heart clean in two. Love these two, and am hoping to read more books set in the small town of Silver Shoals!
There's one certain moment where Eli says something to Adam and Adam just sort of... collapses in on himself and gives up, and it just BROKE my heart clean in two. Love these two, and am hoping to read more books set in the small town of Silver Shoals!
November 7, 2024
A fun quick holiday read. Will keep you entertained and drawn in from the start. Had some issues either continuity of what is going on and is that really possible? It's one of those right on the fine line of reality and fantasy where too much was more fantasy than anything for me.
Did enjoy the chemistry of Eli & Alex for me. This was more of a prequel than an actual story. Would be willing to read more of the Silver Shoals world to see how it all plays out. So overall, a promising start for a quick read with the hope of expansion to tie the loose ends better.
Did enjoy the chemistry of Eli & Alex for me. This was more of a prequel than an actual story. Would be willing to read more of the Silver Shoals world to see how it all plays out. So overall, a promising start for a quick read with the hope of expansion to tie the loose ends better.
November 22, 2024
Ok, this was so short and good, I loved these two.
Adam was hiding and not doing a very good of it. He wanted a diferent life and he didn't the smalltown he was in was the solution. Lo and behold, he was obviously wrong.
I loved Eli, he was wary of Adam at first and the again when he discovered the truth but that didn't stop from really seeing the person Adam was. He wasn't a bad guy, just someone that made bad choices and was trying to leave them behind.
Adam was the cutest, like a giant teddy bear and Eli had spunk, I loved them
Adam was hiding and not doing a very good of it. He wanted a diferent life and he didn't the smalltown he was in was the solution. Lo and behold, he was obviously wrong.
I loved Eli, he was wary of Adam at first and the again when he discovered the truth but that didn't stop from really seeing the person Adam was. He wasn't a bad guy, just someone that made bad choices and was trying to leave them behind.
Adam was the cutest, like a giant teddy bear and Eli had spunk, I loved them
December 27, 2024
5 stars
This was so much fun. Did I think I needed a story about an ex-mobster in witness protection and a transmasc boat captain? No. But that's what I got, and I am here for it. The hijinks are fun and ridiculous, while the emotion is real and raw. This story is short but packs a punch. Adam and Eli are such interesting characters, and we get so much from them in the short amount of time we get with them. Oh, and Eli's ship's name is the Trans Atlantic, so that's just the cherry on top of everything. This was a great Christmas read, and I highly recommend it.
This was so much fun. Did I think I needed a story about an ex-mobster in witness protection and a transmasc boat captain? No. But that's what I got, and I am here for it. The hijinks are fun and ridiculous, while the emotion is real and raw. This story is short but packs a punch. Adam and Eli are such interesting characters, and we get so much from them in the short amount of time we get with them. Oh, and Eli's ship's name is the Trans Atlantic, so that's just the cherry on top of everything. This was a great Christmas read, and I highly recommend it.
November 9, 2025
When everything that can go wrong, goes wrong but it leads you to the right person.
It’s a cute, sweet and funny short book. Once they actually start to trust each other, Eli and Adam/Alex are adorable together.
If you have like an hour to read something that’s kind of impossible, cute and Christmassy then you can give this a try.
It’s a cute, sweet and funny short book. Once they actually start to trust each other, Eli and Adam/Alex are adorable together.
If you have like an hour to read something that’s kind of impossible, cute and Christmassy then you can give this a try.
December 20, 2024
That was absurd but i get im just not the public for it
December 7, 2025
Such a cute read!
do-not-want-to-read-ever
October 26, 2025Author clearly uses AI images and tries to pretend they drew them. No thanks.
November 14, 2025
Deck The Hulls
Silver Shoals Book 1
Kat Cassidy
Elijah and Adam
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Christmas novella
Grumpy/ Sunshine
Means rep
Forced Proximity
Ex mobster
This was quick and fun
Adam an ex mobster now in the witness protection program
Through a set of unfortunate shenanigans Adam steals a ship, The Trans Atlantic on to realize Eli to be the boats captain.
This was cute
Super for fetched but cute
These two quick fall for each other
Learning to work together through a storm on the ship among other things they form a connection.
I appreciate the Trans rep being absolute and Eli not questioning it
This was a quirky and fun holiday romance
So thankful for this arc
Silver Shoals Book 1
Kat Cassidy
Elijah and Adam
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶
Christmas novella
Grumpy/ Sunshine
Means rep
Forced Proximity
Ex mobster
This was quick and fun
Adam an ex mobster now in the witness protection program
Through a set of unfortunate shenanigans Adam steals a ship, The Trans Atlantic on to realize Eli to be the boats captain.
This was cute
Super for fetched but cute
These two quick fall for each other
Learning to work together through a storm on the ship among other things they form a connection.
I appreciate the Trans rep being absolute and Eli not questioning it
This was a quirky and fun holiday romance
So thankful for this arc
October 1, 2025
Leí este libro casi como “lectura entre lecturas”, porque es una novela muy corta que se devora en un ratito. No estuvo mal, pero también sentí que todo fue demasiado rápido. Prácticamente vemos cómo los protagonistas se conocen y deciden iniciar una relación, pero sin mucho trasfondo que respalde lo que pasa entre ellos.
La autora menciona aspectos del pasado de ambos personajes que pudieron haber sido clave para darles más profundidad, pero solo se rozan y muchas cosas quedan en el aire. A veces parecía que se esperaba que ya conociéramos sus historias previas, cuando en realidad los acabamos de descubrir. Eso me dejó con la sensación de que se desperdició una buena oportunidad de desarrollar la trama.
Lo que sí me gustó fue la vibra de “segunda oportunidad”: no del romance, sino en la vida personal de cada uno. Tiene ese espíritu navideño de esperanza, de empezar de nuevo y mirar al futuro con ilusión, lo cual transmite calidez y buenas sensaciones.
Fue una lectura rápida, con encanto navideño y un mensaje bonito de empezar de nuevo, aunque demasiado apresurada y con huecos que me impidieron disfrutarla del todo.
La autora menciona aspectos del pasado de ambos personajes que pudieron haber sido clave para darles más profundidad, pero solo se rozan y muchas cosas quedan en el aire. A veces parecía que se esperaba que ya conociéramos sus historias previas, cuando en realidad los acabamos de descubrir. Eso me dejó con la sensación de que se desperdició una buena oportunidad de desarrollar la trama.
Lo que sí me gustó fue la vibra de “segunda oportunidad”: no del romance, sino en la vida personal de cada uno. Tiene ese espíritu navideño de esperanza, de empezar de nuevo y mirar al futuro con ilusión, lo cual transmite calidez y buenas sensaciones.
Fue una lectura rápida, con encanto navideño y un mensaje bonito de empezar de nuevo, aunque demasiado apresurada y con huecos que me impidieron disfrutarla del todo.
December 25, 2024
When you're an ex-mobster hiding under witness protection, the last thing you need to do is accidentally kill someone, decide you're going to dump the body at sea, steal a boat and then discover you've been caught in the (almost) act by the cute, obviously ill owner of said boat...
Deck the Hulls does fall into the "suspend disbelief" realms on occasion, but overall it's a cute, funny story that just happens to occur at Christmas time. I do love that we get to know Adam Sgouros a little better, getting that insight to his past and his journey to mobster status, and I love all the nods to Eli's proud trans status and the way the two characters interact and fall for each other.
I look forward to more from the author in this spin off series.
Deck the Hulls does fall into the "suspend disbelief" realms on occasion, but overall it's a cute, funny story that just happens to occur at Christmas time. I do love that we get to know Adam Sgouros a little better, getting that insight to his past and his journey to mobster status, and I love all the nods to Eli's proud trans status and the way the two characters interact and fall for each other.
I look forward to more from the author in this spin off series.
October 30, 2025
Deck the Hulls by Kat Cassidy is the first book in her Silver Shoals series. It is about a man in witness protection who feels like he will never belong anywhere and the man who gives him hope and love after an interesting start to their relationship. Adam Sgouros worked for the Greek Mafia and when that went sour he cut a deal to testify, get immunity, get new papers, and stay alive. At the first town he was sent to he was recognized and had to go to a new town which was Silver Shoals, Massachusetts. His marshall said if he didn’t make this work he would be out of the program which would probably be a death sentence. He wasn’t enjoying the town and felt like he would never belong. He was working a low-end job at the local hardware store under his new name of Alexander Simmons where his boss, the owner’s nephew with 2 semesters of business school, was not doing a great job. When his coworker was taking a break Alex got sent to Klaussen’s Fine Foods to collect a $1300 debt. As he walked there in the cold he saw the town square lit up for Christmas and wondered if maybe he could belong there. But when he got to the store it was closed except for a worker mopping the floors. When he said he was there to collect a debt, the worker, seeing Alex’s big frame and mafia looks, panicked and hit his head, falling to the floor and leaving a bloody mess. Alex thought he was dead and knew he had to get rid of the body or he could face serious consequences. He remembered that one of his mafia brothers had told him if he ever had to get rid of a body, he should weigh it down and throw it in the ocean. Luckily Silver Shoals was on the ocean so he put it in a bag and drug it to the dock where he found a rainbow-colored boat. He had some experience driving boats so he headed out to sea. Unfortunately, there was a snowstorm going on but he knew what he had to do. After about 90 minutes he was getting ready to dump the body when a young man came up from below deck. He was coughing and looked miserable and was not steady on his feet due to taking cough medicine and asked him what he was doing. It turned out he was Eli Jensen who owns the boat, the Tide and Seek, and runs a tour and charter fishing business. Then the action really starts. Alex is evasive about why he took the boat and Eli says they have to return to shore. They talk and Eli begins to like and trust Alex as they both help each other to return to land. He starts to see the man beneath the tough exterior and that he’s desperate to leave his old life behind but has no idea what a new one would look like. When he sends Eli to rest, Alex feels like he’s standing on the edge of something good and realizes he has to take the body back and face the consequences. But then Eli sees the body and the trust falls apart. It is then that Alex tells him his life story. And now they battling the storm, trying to return to Silver Shoals, and the boat stops running. Eli knows he can’t work alone to save them so they have to work together to get back and they also come up with a plan that will keep Alex out of trouble. On their way there they kiss under the mistletoe and they realize what they have is real and Alex knows right where he belongs – with Eli. Once the drama is over Alex asks Eli if he wants to stay with him while his boat is being fixed and 2 years later they are still together when another heart stopping thing happens, but luckily, Eli’s love has changed Alex and he knows he is in the clear. I really enjoyed this short story. Adam/Alex has had a hard life being in the mafia and then in witness protection. He doesn’t like the life he has but he doesn’t know how to change it even though he desperately wants to belong somewhere. Eli is surviving on his boat but doesn’t have a lot of money to do the things he wants to do. He is also trans but there isn’t much said about it in the story. When he catches Alex stealing his boat he doesn’t quite know what to do but eventually, when he learns his story, they work together to get back to shore and find they want to be together. Parts of the story have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what will happen and how they will get out of all of their difficulties. There are also no love scenes other than kissing. I highly recommend this book, especially if you like action stories about a former mafia guard who finds himself in witness protection and having to dispose of a body to stay in it, a man who finds his boat stolen, and how they work together to solve their problems and fall in love along the way.
November 25, 2024
Holiday Cheer Meter: 1/5
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
3rd person, present tense, dual POV
Adam Sgouros / Alexander Simmons (WITSEC identity), sales clerk at Harborview Hardware
Elijah Jensen, captain of the Trans Atlantic, owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours
I've been waiting for a while for this one; I LOVE hidden identity, it's my favourite trope and Christmas stories are my absolute jam, I pretty much race through as many as I can throughout the months of November and December.
This was something of a zany dark comedy, which was pretty evident from the book synopsis so I went in with the expectation I was about to be taken on a bit of a wild ride, however, the set-up required a little more suspension of disbelief than I was expecting or, if I'm honest, capable of. The plot holes surround the body that ends up needing to be disposed of are big enough to sail a ship though, which is too bad because the rest of the absurd tale is amazing and I enjoyed every unhinged minute of it. Somehow, sheer determination because I loved the whole idea and the characters genuinely appealed to me, I managed to push that all aside and enjoy the rest of the novella.
It had great character development, especially for its length, enough backstory is given to understand who the characters are and their motivations, essentially lost, alone on a boat in the middle of the ocean getting to know one and other the banter was so much fun and the truthful revelations heartfelt. Alex is not adjusting well to his life in WITSEC and I loved how Eli encouraged him to find himself and his own happiness with the cards life had dealt him and the decisions he'd made. It wasn't easy, but it felt honest and genuine.
Their initial subtle attraction is evident, which lead to a sweet low-heat that I enjoyed a lot. As much as I devour the spicier side of romance I'm so glad the author didn't rush the couple into the bedroom here because it absolutely wouldn't have fit with the narrative. With more time, it would have felt right, but it wasn't quite time for them to take their relationship there given everything else that was going on and the heightened emotions between them. I adored that one of the characters was trans and it was not a huge plot point of the story, more just a fact, much like the fact that his hair was curly.
This book does have a spicy bonus scene (tbh I'm a little sad that the bonus epilogue took us there, though I'm sure I'm in the minority) that occurs between the last chapter of the book and its epilogue and it is a smidge awkward, but incredibly sweet.
I wish the author had just included it in the book instead of making the reader jump though a bunch of engagement hoops to get it. It's so discouraging to have to sign up for a newsletter to get the rest of the story I just bought, because, yeah, this read a little like a deleted scene that should have been included to show the couple taking the next steps to establish their relationship. The story was complete without it but it isn't nearly so satisfying as seeing them fit together once they're back in the 'real world'.
Anywho, I enjoyed the story, wish a little more thought had gone into making the entire 'body' storyline a little believable, but that small negative is outweighed by a whole lot of positives so I definitely recommend giving this story a try.
(Where 1 is as Christmassy as 'Die Hard' and 5 is more like 'Elf')
3rd person, present tense, dual POV
Elijah Jensen, captain of the Trans Atlantic, owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours
I've been waiting for a while for this one; I LOVE hidden identity, it's my favourite trope and Christmas stories are my absolute jam, I pretty much race through as many as I can throughout the months of November and December.
This was something of a zany dark comedy, which was pretty evident from the book synopsis so I went in with the expectation I was about to be taken on a bit of a wild ride, however, the set-up required a little more suspension of disbelief than I was expecting or, if I'm honest, capable of. The plot holes surround the body that ends up needing to be disposed of are big enough to sail a ship though, which is too bad because the rest of the absurd tale is amazing and I enjoyed every unhinged minute of it. Somehow, sheer determination because I loved the whole idea and the characters genuinely appealed to me, I managed to push that all aside and enjoy the rest of the novella.
It had great character development, especially for its length, enough backstory is given to understand who the characters are and their motivations, essentially lost, alone on a boat in the middle of the ocean getting to know one and other the banter was so much fun and the truthful revelations heartfelt. Alex is not adjusting well to his life in WITSEC and I loved how Eli encouraged him to find himself and his own happiness with the cards life had dealt him and the decisions he'd made. It wasn't easy, but it felt honest and genuine.
Their initial subtle attraction is evident, which lead to a sweet low-heat that I enjoyed a lot. As much as I devour the spicier side of romance I'm so glad the author didn't rush the couple into the bedroom here because it absolutely wouldn't have fit with the narrative. With more time, it would have felt right, but it wasn't quite time for them to take their relationship there given everything else that was going on and the heightened emotions between them. I adored that one of the characters was trans and it was not a huge plot point of the story, more just a fact, much like the fact that his hair was curly.
This book does have a spicy bonus scene (tbh I'm a little sad that the bonus epilogue took us there, though I'm sure I'm in the minority) that occurs between the last chapter of the book and its epilogue and it is a smidge awkward, but incredibly sweet.
I wish the author had just included it in the book instead of making the reader jump though a bunch of engagement hoops to get it. It's so discouraging to have to sign up for a newsletter to get the rest of the story I just bought, because, yeah, this read a little like a deleted scene that should have been included to show the couple taking the next steps to establish their relationship. The story was complete without it but it isn't nearly so satisfying as seeing them fit together once they're back in the 'real world'.
Anywho, I enjoyed the story, wish a little more thought had gone into making the entire 'body' storyline a little believable, but that small negative is outweighed by a whole lot of positives so I definitely recommend giving this story a try.
November 8, 2025
A man in witness protection from the mob falls in love with the captain of the boat he commandeered
Adam Sgouros is experiencing difficulties in maintaining proper conduct within the small town of Silver Shoals, thereby posing a challenge for his handler at the Justice Department. He does not harbor affection for the town, its inhabitants, or the available assets. Consequently, during his inaugural Christmas there, he remains unsettled but resolutely committed to making a successful life in Silver Shoals, working discreetly in a hardware store.
Assigned a mission by his boss, Adam is tasked with collecting a debt from a store owner who has accumulated a substantial amount. This situation bears similarities to his past activities in the mob; however, in this case, he refrains from confrontation and finds himself compelled to dispose of a body.
He departs in a boat towards deeper ocean waters when the boat's owner awakens from a severe head cold while attempting to rest in his quarters below deck. The narrative concerning the commandeering of the boat becomes intertwined with Adam's efforts to conceal his series of activities. Nonetheless, the allure of the boat's captain, Elijah Jensen, fosters a connection between the men as they share their backstories and reflect on how they came to be on that particular Christmas Eve.
Elijah is a former roommate and lover of Ben, associated with the television production "Baby, It’s Cod Outside," and is the heir to a fish processing factory. Though tied to Silver Shoals, his ongoing boat issues, financial struggles, and a streak of misfortune have diminished his faith in much.
The two men contend with a severe snowstorm at sea when they lose engine and power. Utilizing an outboard motor to maintain movement, they ultimately return to Silver Shoals from offshore. Their return is marked by the absence of a body and a mutual pledge to reunite.
Both men are unable to return home or disclose all their secrets; however, there is a seemingly fitting and fulfilling conclusion to their ordeal that nourishes their spirits.
Kat Cassidy's writing style is well-suited for this genre. The narrative conveys angst rooted in weather conditions, the malfunction of the boat, and the characters’ backstories—particularly Adam’s loneliness and difficulty connecting with his family or embracing his true self, as well as Eli’s inability to return home because of his sexuality, yet his sense of safety in Adam’s company. The depth of character development effectively highlights these themes. I look forward to reading more of her work within this genre.
Adam Sgouros is experiencing difficulties in maintaining proper conduct within the small town of Silver Shoals, thereby posing a challenge for his handler at the Justice Department. He does not harbor affection for the town, its inhabitants, or the available assets. Consequently, during his inaugural Christmas there, he remains unsettled but resolutely committed to making a successful life in Silver Shoals, working discreetly in a hardware store.
Assigned a mission by his boss, Adam is tasked with collecting a debt from a store owner who has accumulated a substantial amount. This situation bears similarities to his past activities in the mob; however, in this case, he refrains from confrontation and finds himself compelled to dispose of a body.
He departs in a boat towards deeper ocean waters when the boat's owner awakens from a severe head cold while attempting to rest in his quarters below deck. The narrative concerning the commandeering of the boat becomes intertwined with Adam's efforts to conceal his series of activities. Nonetheless, the allure of the boat's captain, Elijah Jensen, fosters a connection between the men as they share their backstories and reflect on how they came to be on that particular Christmas Eve.
Elijah is a former roommate and lover of Ben, associated with the television production "Baby, It’s Cod Outside," and is the heir to a fish processing factory. Though tied to Silver Shoals, his ongoing boat issues, financial struggles, and a streak of misfortune have diminished his faith in much.
The two men contend with a severe snowstorm at sea when they lose engine and power. Utilizing an outboard motor to maintain movement, they ultimately return to Silver Shoals from offshore. Their return is marked by the absence of a body and a mutual pledge to reunite.
Both men are unable to return home or disclose all their secrets; however, there is a seemingly fitting and fulfilling conclusion to their ordeal that nourishes their spirits.
Kat Cassidy's writing style is well-suited for this genre. The narrative conveys angst rooted in weather conditions, the malfunction of the boat, and the characters’ backstories—particularly Adam’s loneliness and difficulty connecting with his family or embracing his true self, as well as Eli’s inability to return home because of his sexuality, yet his sense of safety in Adam’s company. The depth of character development effectively highlights these themes. I look forward to reading more of her work within this genre.
November 12, 2025
My introduction to Kat Cassidy's writing came by way of her debut series, Hot Wire, and I was obsessed with those books! Which is why it's rather weird that it's taken me this long to read something new of hers. Deck the Hulls is the first in Cassidy's Silver Shoals series, and it's set in the eponymous Massachusetts town. We've got Adam Sgouros, who is in witness protection after leaving behind his life with the Greek mob in sunny Los Angeles, California. Now bearing the name Alexander Simmons, Adam is still adjusting to life in the tiny town that feels nothing like home. When he finds himself in a bit of trouble, he recalls the advice of someone from his past. Which is how he's on a boat with a body in a bag that needs to be disposed. Things get more complicated when Elijah Jensen wakes up and realizes his boat's been hijacked. Now, the twosome are stranded on the water with a snowstorm! Will Adam/Alex and Eli make their way back to town without any trouble or could secrets torpedo any chance for them?
This was holiday novella that had a unique blend of small-town feels, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine. It's a quick read, so having the main characters, Adam/Alex and Eli, feel the initial stirrings of attraction with notable chemistry made more sense to me rather than them vowing eternal love and such. Both have interesting back stories--Adam/Alex being a cisgender male in WITSEC and still finding his footing in the new life that he's now stuck with, and Eli being a transgender male trying to make a go of a charter tour business minus his business partner who now happens to be his ex. While this book is short in terms of number of pages, it didn't necessarily feel rushed. Maybe that's just me, but I liked the story's pacing and the MCs' development. The epilogue gives offers Adam/Alex and Eli their happily-ever-after but not before a sprinkling of suspense. Overall, Deck the Hulls is a four-starred read.
This was holiday novella that had a unique blend of small-town feels, forced proximity, and grumpy/sunshine. It's a quick read, so having the main characters, Adam/Alex and Eli, feel the initial stirrings of attraction with notable chemistry made more sense to me rather than them vowing eternal love and such. Both have interesting back stories--Adam/Alex being a cisgender male in WITSEC and still finding his footing in the new life that he's now stuck with, and Eli being a transgender male trying to make a go of a charter tour business minus his business partner who now happens to be his ex. While this book is short in terms of number of pages, it didn't necessarily feel rushed. Maybe that's just me, but I liked the story's pacing and the MCs' development. The epilogue gives offers Adam/Alex and Eli their happily-ever-after but not before a sprinkling of suspense. Overall, Deck the Hulls is a four-starred read.
November 7, 2024
3.5 stars
This was a really nice Christmas story.
Adam/Alex was involved with greek mob and now is under WITSEC protection. Silver Shoals is not the first town he was placed in, because he previously failed at the "lie low" thing. This is his last chance to make things work, but he feels lonely and he misses his old life, so he's not adjusting very well.
Eli is a trans guy, he owns a boat and he's trying to start his own business but after being dumped by his boyfriend, things are difficult.
After an "accident" Adam wants to use Eli's boat to deal with an unexpected problem, but he doesn't know Eli is on board, sleeping.
During the hours they spend together on the boat, between confessions, lies, affection and attraction, Adam and Eli will find out that they have a lot in common and that they could be good for each other.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
The lack of intimacy between the MCs. I'm not talking about explicit physical scenes, I didn't mind that there aren't ny, but I would have loved for them to be more close with kisses, small touches, sweet talking. The romantic side of the story left me a little disappointed.
Eli's transition: when the character is introduced, we know a few things about that, like him having to postpone top surgery and his boyfriend not completely being able to love him for who he really is. But then, this whole part of him is completely forgotten, he and Adam have a sort of conversation with a lot of thing left unsaid. I believe they should have been more open about that.
The bonus scene could have been a good opportunity to show them being intimate (again, no explicit scenes needed), but it was all about Adam.
Still a lovely story, short, easy to read with a good happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
This was a really nice Christmas story.
Adam/Alex was involved with greek mob and now is under WITSEC protection. Silver Shoals is not the first town he was placed in, because he previously failed at the "lie low" thing. This is his last chance to make things work, but he feels lonely and he misses his old life, so he's not adjusting very well.
Eli is a trans guy, he owns a boat and he's trying to start his own business but after being dumped by his boyfriend, things are difficult.
After an "accident" Adam wants to use Eli's boat to deal with an unexpected problem, but he doesn't know Eli is on board, sleeping.
During the hours they spend together on the boat, between confessions, lies, affection and attraction, Adam and Eli will find out that they have a lot in common and that they could be good for each other.
What prevented me from giving a higher rate:
The lack of intimacy between the MCs. I'm not talking about explicit physical scenes, I didn't mind that there aren't ny, but I would have loved for them to be more close with kisses, small touches, sweet talking. The romantic side of the story left me a little disappointed.
Eli's transition: when the character is introduced, we know a few things about that, like him having to postpone top surgery and his boyfriend not completely being able to love him for who he really is. But then, this whole part of him is completely forgotten, he and Adam have a sort of conversation with a lot of thing left unsaid. I believe they should have been more open about that.
The bonus scene could have been a good opportunity to show them being intimate (again, no explicit scenes needed), but it was all about Adam.
Still a lovely story, short, easy to read with a good happy ending.
I received an ARC of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
December 11, 2024
This is a new to me author and I absolutely loved this book. It was true to the blurb and the promised hijinks and fun was happily enjoyed. This is the story of Adam/Alex Simmons and Elijah Jensen. Adam in in Witness Protection and has been given the new identity of Alex Simmons. As an ex enforcer for the greek mob, Alex is having a hard time fitting in. In a small town that he can't relate to, Alex is working at the local hardware store. When ordered by his boss to go collect owed money, Alex ends up accidentally causing the death of someone. Panicking, he takes his old enforcer friends advice, it is always good to get rid of a body in the ocean. Off he and the body to and he "borrows" a fishing boat to go and dump the body. Things don't go according to plan. Eli is the captain of the Trans Atlantic fishing boat and owner of Tide and Seek Charter Tours. He also lives on board his boat. Once Eli wakes up from heavy due cold medicine he realizes that his boat is moving. This is how he and Alex meet. Realizing that he has to figure out where they are so that they can make it safely back to land, Eli puts the "boatnapping" to the side. Besides, there is also a terrible snow storm that has just blown in to make things worse. This is their story. Now I am sure that you are wondering how in the world that this is going to work out. Don't you worry. The author has it all figured out. Just enjoy the ride. Their relationship is hard enough to figure out but when the dead body isn't dead, all bets are off. That's when the fun really begins. This is a well written book and easy to read. I really enjoyed it. I look forward to more books by this author.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
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