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Merry Everything #5
A Present for Parker
Parker Stephens is a cowboy looking for a place to call home. His only family has kicked him to the curb, leaving him with his truck and the clothes on his back. He doesn’t even have his dog. So when he shows up at the Vermont home of his friends Skyler and Beckett, he’s got no idea what he’ll do beyond the holidays. For now, he just needs to visit and breathe.
Heath Wooledge is used to being alone, working on his vintage farmhouse, and eating a frozen pizza or two. Since he’s never been invited to his business partner Beckett’s house to eat dinner, it stands to reason they’re asking him for a favor. Luckily for him, when they ask if he’ll let Parker stay at his place because their guest room is a mess, Heath can’t believe his good luck. Parker is a sweetheart of a cowboy, and he’s never been more attracted to anyone in his life.
The two have immediate chemistry, but will magic of snowy holiday Vermont make the two of them accept the gift they’ve been given?
Heath Wooledge is used to being alone, working on his vintage farmhouse, and eating a frozen pizza or two. Since he’s never been invited to his business partner Beckett’s house to eat dinner, it stands to reason they’re asking him for a favor. Luckily for him, when they ask if he’ll let Parker stay at his place because their guest room is a mess, Heath can’t believe his good luck. Parker is a sweetheart of a cowboy, and he’s never been more attracted to anyone in his life.
The two have immediate chemistry, but will magic of snowy holiday Vermont make the two of them accept the gift they’ve been given?
206 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
About the author
Jodi Payne
93 books407 followersJODI spent too many years in New York and San Francisco stage managing classical plays, edgy fringe work, and the occasional musical. She, therefore, is overdramatic, takes herself way too seriously, and has been known to randomly break out in song. Her men are imperfect but genuine, stubborn but likable, often kinky, and frequently their own worst enemies. They are characters you can’t help but fall in love with while they stumble along the path to their happily ever after.
For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, Malbec and tequila however you pour it. She’s also obsessed with Shakespeare and Broadway musicals. She can be found wearing sock monkey gloves while typing when it’s cold, and on the beach enjoying the sun and the ocean when it’s hot. When she’s not writing and/or vacuuming sand out of her laptop, Jodi mentors queer youth and will drop everything for live music. Jodi lives near New York City with her beautiful wife, and together they are mothers of dragons (cleverly disguised as children) and slaves to an enormous polydactyl cat.
For those looking to get on her good side, Jodi’s addictions include nonfat lattes, Malbec and tequila however you pour it. She’s also obsessed with Shakespeare and Broadway musicals. She can be found wearing sock monkey gloves while typing when it’s cold, and on the beach enjoying the sun and the ocean when it’s hot. When she’s not writing and/or vacuuming sand out of her laptop, Jodi mentors queer youth and will drop everything for live music. Jodi lives near New York City with her beautiful wife, and together they are mothers of dragons (cleverly disguised as children) and slaves to an enormous polydactyl cat.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 63 reviews
February 13, 2026
Worn down by years of bull riding, Parker's battle-scarred body bears a significant number of scars, scabs, bruises, and internal injuries. He has decided to stop bull riding and accepts an invitation from his best friend from his rodeo days to spend time with him, his husband, their children—whom he loves dearly—and some friends.
When asked to stay with their lawyer neighbor and friend due to ongoing renovations at his intended home, an instant chemistry develops. Heath, who enjoys working on his vintage farmhouse, finds Parker’s company well-suited to his holiday plans, which include continuing work on the home. Although it is not explicitly stated whether this was an arrangement made with hope, the two complement each other well, sharing a love of fixing things and Parker's energetic nature. Heath also finds Parker’s lithe, muscular build and lively demeanor quite enjoyable.
When Parker learns that, upon returning home to his mother, he was disowned because he is gay—a situation in which she kept his dog and a large camper that he used as a mobile home—Heath volunteers to accompany him to retrieve these possessions. The journey to Oklahoma serves as a bonding experience for the pair, and the return trip—staying in the camper—culminates in their attraction blossoming into something beyond mere passion.
Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga have a remarkable talent for storytelling. While there are moments of confusion about the narrative voice, the passion the authors imbue in this emotionally moving story compensates for these minor issues. It is a fairly quick read, even if one needs to revisit certain sections to better understand some of the characters.
This is a real Happy-Ever-After that begs for a follow-up story.
When asked to stay with their lawyer neighbor and friend due to ongoing renovations at his intended home, an instant chemistry develops. Heath, who enjoys working on his vintage farmhouse, finds Parker’s company well-suited to his holiday plans, which include continuing work on the home. Although it is not explicitly stated whether this was an arrangement made with hope, the two complement each other well, sharing a love of fixing things and Parker's energetic nature. Heath also finds Parker’s lithe, muscular build and lively demeanor quite enjoyable.
When Parker learns that, upon returning home to his mother, he was disowned because he is gay—a situation in which she kept his dog and a large camper that he used as a mobile home—Heath volunteers to accompany him to retrieve these possessions. The journey to Oklahoma serves as a bonding experience for the pair, and the return trip—staying in the camper—culminates in their attraction blossoming into something beyond mere passion.
Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga have a remarkable talent for storytelling. While there are moments of confusion about the narrative voice, the passion the authors imbue in this emotionally moving story compensates for these minor issues. It is a fairly quick read, even if one needs to revisit certain sections to better understand some of the characters.
This is a real Happy-Ever-After that begs for a follow-up story.
April 9, 2026
4 hot, gooey stars!
I despise using this word to describe a m/m book, but it's the only word that seems to fit. This book was "sweet." Emotionally and sexually.
Parker is a homeless cowboy (Not a very good one, either.) looking for a new home. His mother booted him out after a heated argument, leaving him with just his truck and the clothing he was wearing. She wouldn't even let him have his dog or his trailer, both of which are back in Oklahoma!
The only place he can think to go is the Vermont home of his friends, Skylar and Beckett. His friends agree to let him stay with them and their two kids. (Sky, Beck, and Parker are all gay. Sky and Beck are married.)
Heath lives in a home down the road from Sky and Beck. He's a loner, survives on frozen pizza and is working to fix up his vintage farmhouse. He is Beck's business partner and has never been invited to his home. So when Beck phones him inviting him to dinner, Heath assumes it's to ask for a favor.
Upon Heath's arrival at Sky and Beck's home, he is pleasantly surprised to see Parker. Actually, he's never been so immediately attracted to anyone in his life!
Over dinner, Heath's assumption proves correct and he couldn't be happier. Sky and Beck ask Heath if he wouldn't mind letting Parker stay with him for a few days until Parker can find some place to live permanently.
Realizing that he has instant chemistry with Parker, Heath agrees to this arrangement.
What follows is an opposites attract, forced proximity holiday romance between Parker, who is ready to retire from the rodeo, and Heath, a Vermont attorney who, until he met Parker, thought his only love would be his restored farmhouse.
The world building is outstanding, as most of the plot takes place in Heath's home. The dialogue exchanges between Heath and Parker are emotional, increasingly heated and humorous. The supporting characters are exactly that, supporting. And caring.
A Present For Parker really does turn into an actual present from Heath to Parker. In order to discover what that present is, you will need to read this (Again, sorry to use this word.) sweet and truly emotional book. Both authors combined their talents to create a wonderful, snowy holiday story.
I despise using this word to describe a m/m book, but it's the only word that seems to fit. This book was "sweet." Emotionally and sexually.
Parker is a homeless cowboy (Not a very good one, either.) looking for a new home. His mother booted him out after a heated argument, leaving him with just his truck and the clothing he was wearing. She wouldn't even let him have his dog or his trailer, both of which are back in Oklahoma!
The only place he can think to go is the Vermont home of his friends, Skylar and Beckett. His friends agree to let him stay with them and their two kids. (Sky, Beck, and Parker are all gay. Sky and Beck are married.)
Heath lives in a home down the road from Sky and Beck. He's a loner, survives on frozen pizza and is working to fix up his vintage farmhouse. He is Beck's business partner and has never been invited to his home. So when Beck phones him inviting him to dinner, Heath assumes it's to ask for a favor.
Upon Heath's arrival at Sky and Beck's home, he is pleasantly surprised to see Parker. Actually, he's never been so immediately attracted to anyone in his life!
Over dinner, Heath's assumption proves correct and he couldn't be happier. Sky and Beck ask Heath if he wouldn't mind letting Parker stay with him for a few days until Parker can find some place to live permanently.
Realizing that he has instant chemistry with Parker, Heath agrees to this arrangement.
What follows is an opposites attract, forced proximity holiday romance between Parker, who is ready to retire from the rodeo, and Heath, a Vermont attorney who, until he met Parker, thought his only love would be his restored farmhouse.
The world building is outstanding, as most of the plot takes place in Heath's home. The dialogue exchanges between Heath and Parker are emotional, increasingly heated and humorous. The supporting characters are exactly that, supporting. And caring.
A Present For Parker really does turn into an actual present from Heath to Parker. In order to discover what that present is, you will need to read this (Again, sorry to use this word.) sweet and truly emotional book. Both authors combined their talents to create a wonderful, snowy holiday story.
March 9, 2026
I enjoyed the story of Parker and Heath, and found Parker to be especially adorable. He is a cowboy/bull rider, in Vermont to visit friends over the holidays after being kicked out by his mother. Turns out his friends’ guest room has a problem, so their neighbor Heath will take Parker in for now. Heath is a lawyer and a law partner with one of Parker’s friends, pretty much a loner, but enchanted by this young guy.
Parker reminds me of the Energizer bunny, always on the go, finding it difficult to stay still most of the time. His personality is so open and friendly, he wins people over with little effort, they’re just happy to bask in Parker’s enthusiasm and positivity. He gets along extremely well with his friends’ children, able to get down on the floor and play with them, in his element, and the children adore him, adopting him as their favorite uncle. He is open and loving, affectionate and playful, and totally into Heath.
Heath is used to living a quiet life alone, and that life is immediately disrupted by the ball of energy that is Parker. He isn’t complaining at all, but embraces this exciting change in his life as the two quickly turn their connection into a relationship which both hope will be a forever one. Heath has a large extended family who embrace Parker immediately, adopting him and making him feel he belongs.
The tale is a sweet, mostly low angst one with two men finding the piece that was missing from their lives, the one that will create a family and a home, the thing Parker was searching for and Heath didn’t know he wanted until this cowboy crashed into his life. An entertaining read for a cowboy fix.
I received an advance reader copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
Parker reminds me of the Energizer bunny, always on the go, finding it difficult to stay still most of the time. His personality is so open and friendly, he wins people over with little effort, they’re just happy to bask in Parker’s enthusiasm and positivity. He gets along extremely well with his friends’ children, able to get down on the floor and play with them, in his element, and the children adore him, adopting him as their favorite uncle. He is open and loving, affectionate and playful, and totally into Heath.
Heath is used to living a quiet life alone, and that life is immediately disrupted by the ball of energy that is Parker. He isn’t complaining at all, but embraces this exciting change in his life as the two quickly turn their connection into a relationship which both hope will be a forever one. Heath has a large extended family who embrace Parker immediately, adopting him and making him feel he belongs.
The tale is a sweet, mostly low angst one with two men finding the piece that was missing from their lives, the one that will create a family and a home, the thing Parker was searching for and Heath didn’t know he wanted until this cowboy crashed into his life. An entertaining read for a cowboy fix.
I received an advance reader copy for free and this is my voluntary review.
February 23, 2026
This is book 5 in the Merry Everything series. Each book is a standalone read and features a different couple. This is the story of Parker Stephens and Heath Wooledge. Parker is a bull rider and his body is just as scarred and tired as he is. He decides it is time to stop bull riding. But then he is unexpectedly thrown out of his home by his mom due to his sexual orientation. His family even kept his dog. When his best friend from his rodeo days, Skyler and his lawyer husband Beckett, invite him out to Vermont for the holidays; he accepts. Heath is Beckett's business partner. He enjoys working on his vintage farm house and is usually alone. When he is unexpectedly invited to dinner for the first time at Skyler and Beckett's home, he knows that something is up. When asked if Parker can stay with him as their spare room is unavailable, he readily agrees. Heath has plenty of room and is instantly attracted to Parker. This is their story. The book is well written and easy to read. I received a complementary advanced review copy of this book from the author and I am voluntarily leaving a review. Parker and Heath compliment each other well. I loved watching their relationship grow. And when they travel back to Oklahoma together to retrieve Parker's dog and RV, it gives them the time to cement their relationship. I really enjoyed this book. I loved how they supported each other so well. A nice holiday read. A sweet read that will lift up your spirits.
March 2, 2026
An adorable holiday meet-cute/bonding over DIY/found family story of a cowboy abandoned by his biological family and a lonely lawyer who loves his vintage farm house. Parker is a beat-up bull rider looking for a place to lay his head during the holidays. When his plans to stay with his rodeo friends Skylar and Beckett go astray due to renovations, he is introduced to their lawyer Heath in the hopes that Parker could stay in one of Heath's spare rooms.
The way the two bond over repairs and renovations is adorable. Despite their dissimilar backgrounds, they find they have so very much in common - including their mutual attraction. The abandonment Parker feels when he learns that he has been disowned for being true to himself is so poignantly written that it is impossible not to hurt for him. Fortunately his found family of friends and a burgeoning relationship with Heath are the support system he needs to reclaim his dog and move forward with his life.
The dialog in this story is a delight. The personality of each character signs through with every word. The pacing is quick without feeling rushed. And the holiday spirit is alive and well, warming the cockles of every reader's heart.
Recommended for fans of B.A. Tortuga, Taylor Rylan's Crooked Bend series, and Tia Fielding.
* I received a free eARC through GRR in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and written without compensation. *
The way the two bond over repairs and renovations is adorable. Despite their dissimilar backgrounds, they find they have so very much in common - including their mutual attraction. The abandonment Parker feels when he learns that he has been disowned for being true to himself is so poignantly written that it is impossible not to hurt for him. Fortunately his found family of friends and a burgeoning relationship with Heath are the support system he needs to reclaim his dog and move forward with his life.
The dialog in this story is a delight. The personality of each character signs through with every word. The pacing is quick without feeling rushed. And the holiday spirit is alive and well, warming the cockles of every reader's heart.
Recommended for fans of B.A. Tortuga, Taylor Rylan's Crooked Bend series, and Tia Fielding.
* I received a free eARC through GRR in return for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own and written without compensation. *
February 28, 2026
A Present for Parker is a perfect holiday romance. This is the fifth book in the Merry Everything series but it is a stand-alone story. The powerhouse writing duo of Payne and Tortuga bring us another heartwarming, emotional, found family love story. Bull rider, Parker, is without a home before the holidays. His mother wants nothing to do with him because he refuses to change who he is. He finds himself on the doorsteps of the people who always feel like family, Beckett, Sky, and their kids. While they take Parker in with open arms, they are short a bedroom at the moment. Beckett’s legal partner, Heath, offers his spare room to Parker. Beckett does not mind a short-term guest but he does not plan on the charm of the sweet cowboy.
There is a lot of uncertainty between Heath and Parker because they are both used to being on their own. When they realize there is a mutual attraction, they allow themselves to open up to each other. When these guys fall for each other, they fall, and they fall hard. It is such wonderful opposites attract love story. Heath and Parker find the love and companionship they were missing in their lives and everything clicks.
I loved this book. I have not read Sky and Beckett’s book but plan on picking it up now because I liked the characters so much.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
There is a lot of uncertainty between Heath and Parker because they are both used to being on their own. When they realize there is a mutual attraction, they allow themselves to open up to each other. When these guys fall for each other, they fall, and they fall hard. It is such wonderful opposites attract love story. Heath and Parker find the love and companionship they were missing in their lives and everything clicks.
I loved this book. I have not read Sky and Beckett’s book but plan on picking it up now because I liked the characters so much.
I received an ARC for my honest review.
February 24, 2026
Another warm, supportive, small-town charm, feel-good holiday romance that leaves you smiling. Cannot believe we are at book five already in the Merry Everything series. This story follows Parker and Heath and absolutely delivers on comfort.
Parker arrives in Vermont with little more than his truck and a broken heart after being thrown out by his family. Heath, content with his solitary routines and frozen pizzas, doesn’t expect his life to change when he agrees to host his business partner’s friend for the holidays. But the attraction is instant, and what starts as a temporary arrangement quickly feels like something far more meaningful.
I loved how naturally their relationship develops. Parker may be physically tough from years of bull riding, but he’s emotionally raw, and Heath’s steady, thoughtful presence is exactly what he needs. In return, Parker brings warmth and purpose into Heath’s quiet world. Their trip back to Oklahoma to reclaim Parker’s dog adds both closure and depth, giving them space to truly choose each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
Parker arrives in Vermont with little more than his truck and a broken heart after being thrown out by his family. Heath, content with his solitary routines and frozen pizzas, doesn’t expect his life to change when he agrees to host his business partner’s friend for the holidays. But the attraction is instant, and what starts as a temporary arrangement quickly feels like something far more meaningful.
I loved how naturally their relationship develops. Parker may be physically tough from years of bull riding, but he’s emotionally raw, and Heath’s steady, thoughtful presence is exactly what he needs. In return, Parker brings warmth and purpose into Heath’s quiet world. Their trip back to Oklahoma to reclaim Parker’s dog adds both closure and depth, giving them space to truly choose each other.
I received a free arc copy and this is my honest review
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March 4, 2026The fantastic duo of Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga do it for me again when they bring us Parker’s story of finding his true home. The thing I love about their stories, both jointly and individually is that they make me feel so happy and positive about love. Though there is usually some underlying angst in the books, for the most part it is the true to life path that people take to find the love and life they were meant to have, with all its ups and downs. Present for Parker is no exception. Parker has been kicked out with nothing by his blood-family and escapes to his found family to recover. Here he meets the person he was meant for in Heath, someone who thought he would live out the rest of his life alone. Their instant chemistry, both physically and emotionally just clicks and they fast track their way to happiness in a wonderful tale. Sometimes I forgot how quickly their story actually happened because the authors were able to squeeze so much content and activity into little actual page time. Cannot recommend anything by these 2 high enough, their books are on my must-read list at all times and Present for Parker is no exception
February 24, 2026
This is such a sweet love story, but it is very fast-paced (in the best way). I mean, they're basically admitting they love each other inside of 10 days, but honestly, that worked for me because Parker and Heath completely won me over.
Parker's wounded, soft-hearted cowboy vibe matched perfectly with Heath's steady, somewhat reclusive lawyer-jack energy. Heath has come to terms with a future alone, and all Parker wants is a real home after a life on the road. They're made for each other, to be honest, and their chemistry felt real even though it was so fast. Watching them settle into a comfortable space with each other was perfect for a sweet holiday story.
And Beckett and Skyler? That meddlesome twosome were blatantly setting Parker and Heath up, while Parker and Heath were completely oblivious to what was happening right in front of them.
If you love stories set in snowy Vermont with forced proximity and two men who desperately want a place to land, this is the book for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
Parker's wounded, soft-hearted cowboy vibe matched perfectly with Heath's steady, somewhat reclusive lawyer-jack energy. Heath has come to terms with a future alone, and all Parker wants is a real home after a life on the road. They're made for each other, to be honest, and their chemistry felt real even though it was so fast. Watching them settle into a comfortable space with each other was perfect for a sweet holiday story.
And Beckett and Skyler? That meddlesome twosome were blatantly setting Parker and Heath up, while Parker and Heath were completely oblivious to what was happening right in front of them.
If you love stories set in snowy Vermont with forced proximity and two men who desperately want a place to land, this is the book for you.
[I received an advanced copy of this book. All reviews and ratings are my own.]
February 13, 2026
Absolutely amazing!
I loved this book! Parker and Heath will meet when Parker comes to stay with his friends Skyler and Beckett around Christmas when his mother kicks him out. Beckett’s business partner, Heath, will get his very first dinner invitation when Parker shows up and Sky and Beckett don’t have a room for him to stay in while they repair a bit of damage. Heath will agree to let Parker stay in his guest room and it will change everything. At first, neither thinks the other is interested but they soon find out the attraction goes both ways. I love how the two start out and the way their relationship grows. There is a bit of a bump in the road when they return to Parker’s home to get his trailer and his dog and they have to deal with Parker’s mom, who isn’t very nice. But it will all work out in the end for them and they will get their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
I loved this book! Parker and Heath will meet when Parker comes to stay with his friends Skyler and Beckett around Christmas when his mother kicks him out. Beckett’s business partner, Heath, will get his very first dinner invitation when Parker shows up and Sky and Beckett don’t have a room for him to stay in while they repair a bit of damage. Heath will agree to let Parker stay in his guest room and it will change everything. At first, neither thinks the other is interested but they soon find out the attraction goes both ways. I love how the two start out and the way their relationship grows. There is a bit of a bump in the road when they return to Parker’s home to get his trailer and his dog and they have to deal with Parker’s mom, who isn’t very nice. But it will all work out in the end for them and they will get their happily ever after!
I read an ARC copy of this book and am volunteering my honest review.
February 24, 2026
4.25*s
Parker has finished his rodeo career and finds himself at loose ends, kicked out by his mother with nowhere to go. And I love his resilience and good humor. The man isn't letting anything get him down and his enthusiasm for life is endearing. Heath, finding himself with a temporary roommate, thinks so too. Although it isn't ever explicitly stated, you just know that Parker and Heath are set up by their friends to spend time together. And it doesn't take them long to fully embrace the attraction that simmers between them. It may be a little fast, but I loved the way that these two just fell into a relationship. The way they support each other, enjoy each other, and fit together is all sorts of sweetness and warmth and fun. With minimal angst, a little bit of heat, and a whole lot of feels, it just brings that holiday feel & satisfaction.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
Parker has finished his rodeo career and finds himself at loose ends, kicked out by his mother with nowhere to go. And I love his resilience and good humor. The man isn't letting anything get him down and his enthusiasm for life is endearing. Heath, finding himself with a temporary roommate, thinks so too. Although it isn't ever explicitly stated, you just know that Parker and Heath are set up by their friends to spend time together. And it doesn't take them long to fully embrace the attraction that simmers between them. It may be a little fast, but I loved the way that these two just fell into a relationship. The way they support each other, enjoy each other, and fit together is all sorts of sweetness and warmth and fun. With minimal angst, a little bit of heat, and a whole lot of feels, it just brings that holiday feel & satisfaction.
(I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.)
March 13, 2026
I loved this book. It was a sweet hurt/comfort romance. I loved both Parker and Heath. I was so sad for Parker being kicked out by his mom like that right before Christmas- even madder that she had his dog, his trailer, and his stuff! Poor guy just wanted to be excepted for who he is and welcomed. From the start you get a sense of Heath being a bit lonely alone, but also intuitive. The two were really cute together. And despite the sad opening of the story this book is just brimming with an air of family and love. I loved all the supporting characters.
And a shout out to that cat Walter! His animosity for Parker made me wheeze. I had tears running down my face when Sky shouted his full name (four names!) in the VOICE. You know, that parent voice that you immediately listen to. And told him to go to his bed. Omg that was one of my favorite scenes! I had to read it three times. I want this in audiobook if only to hear that scene! lol
5 stars
And a shout out to that cat Walter! His animosity for Parker made me wheeze. I had tears running down my face when Sky shouted his full name (four names!) in the VOICE. You know, that parent voice that you immediately listen to. And told him to go to his bed. Omg that was one of my favorite scenes! I had to read it three times. I want this in audiobook if only to hear that scene! lol
5 stars
February 24, 2026
tats & scars, lawyer-jack, teacup Yorkie, zoo-dog, penuche, dire wolf, charcuterie board, purple rhinestones, champagne BJ
Parker Stephens has had enough of rodeo bullriding. And he needs a place to land. Facing Christmas alone he calls his best friend, Skyler and his husband Beckett to see if he can spend time with them and their children. They extend their hospitality, but their only guest room has sprung a leak. The couple ask their friend and Beck's lawyer partner, Heath Wooledge if Parker can stay at his home since he lives alone and has space. After all, it'll only be for a night or two. Heath readily agrees that Parker should stay with him. They have immediate mutual attraction, and one or two nights becomes more.
I enjoyed reading this low angst and entertaining book. I recommend it.
Parker Stephens has had enough of rodeo bullriding. And he needs a place to land. Facing Christmas alone he calls his best friend, Skyler and his husband Beckett to see if he can spend time with them and their children. They extend their hospitality, but their only guest room has sprung a leak. The couple ask their friend and Beck's lawyer partner, Heath Wooledge if Parker can stay at his home since he lives alone and has space. After all, it'll only be for a night or two. Heath readily agrees that Parker should stay with him. They have immediate mutual attraction, and one or two nights becomes more.
I enjoyed reading this low angst and entertaining book. I recommend it.
February 10, 2026
A Present for Parker is a super sweet story and a great addition to the Merry Everything series. I love Parker and Heath together as well as how easy their relationship is even though it happens very quickly. They are exactly what the other needs and I love that Skyler and Beckett do everything they can to push the two of them together. Parker needs all of the support he can get as he deals with a difficult situation with his mother and Heath is all in to love and support him along the way. I also love that we get to see how well Skyler, Beckett and their beautiful family are doing. The ending is perfect and I look forward to reading more books by these authors.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews, and this is my honest review.
February 10, 2026
Lovely, easy romance between a cowboy and a lawyer
Cowboy Parker gets kicked out of his mother's house (he lived in a rv on her land and had been using her home as a homebase between rodeos). He hits the road to Sky & Beck's house to consider his options. Beck's work friend, Heath has an empty room, so that's where he ends up staying. Parker falls in love with the area, the house, and he & Heath fall in love with each other pretty quickly. From there it's about their journey to get Parker's rv & dog back from his mother, and to map out what the rest of their lives together will look like.
No drama romance, low drama plot. Great characters, found family, medium spice, and an HEA. Loved it.
Cowboy Parker gets kicked out of his mother's house (he lived in a rv on her land and had been using her home as a homebase between rodeos). He hits the road to Sky & Beck's house to consider his options. Beck's work friend, Heath has an empty room, so that's where he ends up staying. Parker falls in love with the area, the house, and he & Heath fall in love with each other pretty quickly. From there it's about their journey to get Parker's rv & dog back from his mother, and to map out what the rest of their lives together will look like.
No drama romance, low drama plot. Great characters, found family, medium spice, and an HEA. Loved it.
February 13, 2026
Cowboy (retired bull rider) and lumberjack-looking lawyer find insta-love over the holidays thanks to nearby friends, snow, and a borrowed guest room.
I wish there had been more information afterwards where to find more with these characters. I wanted more! I liked the found family and the road trip dog rescue mission. (There's a list of other books in the series, but it runs to almost 20 titles, so I was confused about where to go next.)
I also wish it had been clear whether the friends were lying about their room not being available, because I kept getting the feeling they were pushing really hard for this couple.
Sweet and festive, a nice pick-me-up reminder of the positives of snow during this never-ending winter.
(I received a free digital ARC for review.)
I wish there had been more information afterwards where to find more with these characters. I wanted more! I liked the found family and the road trip dog rescue mission. (There's a list of other books in the series, but it runs to almost 20 titles, so I was confused about where to go next.)
I also wish it had been clear whether the friends were lying about their room not being available, because I kept getting the feeling they were pushing really hard for this couple.
Sweet and festive, a nice pick-me-up reminder of the positives of snow during this never-ending winter.
(I received a free digital ARC for review.)
February 22, 2026
These two authors write by far the best cowboy series. With each book I love the Merry Everything series more. In this one, Parker and Heath are the wonderful love story. Parker, thrown out of his own home, feels no sense of family is seeking one desperately. After being thrown out with no place to go he goes to friends, Beckett and Skyler's farm in Vermont. It there he meets Heath, Beckett's new business pattern, changes his life. Due to issues at Beckett's place they ask Heath to let Parker move in with him ad he applies says yes. I love the story at this point as we get cozy romance, with just enough drama, two who will they or want them, and two men with off the chart chemistry. The prefect book to sit in your comfy place with favorite beverage and enjoy.
February 22, 2026
Super sweet, quick read about two lonely men who find exactly what they want, and need, in each other.
Parker knows his time as a cowboy is over - the traveling lifestyle doesn't have the allure anymore, and his body needs a break. When he's kicked out of his family home, he makes his way to Vermont to visit his best friend, Sky and his husband, Beckett. A home renovation accident means that instead of staying with his friends, Parker is staying with Heath, Beckett's business partner. Heath isn't much of hosting, but how can he say no to the sweetest cowboy he's ever met this close to Christmas.
The chemistry between Heath and Parker is lovely, as is their budding romance. Low-angst, high heat, this book was a great read!
Parker knows his time as a cowboy is over - the traveling lifestyle doesn't have the allure anymore, and his body needs a break. When he's kicked out of his family home, he makes his way to Vermont to visit his best friend, Sky and his husband, Beckett. A home renovation accident means that instead of staying with his friends, Parker is staying with Heath, Beckett's business partner. Heath isn't much of hosting, but how can he say no to the sweetest cowboy he's ever met this close to Christmas.
The chemistry between Heath and Parker is lovely, as is their budding romance. Low-angst, high heat, this book was a great read!
February 24, 2026
Lots of authors write about cowboys. But nobody does rodeo folk like Jody Payne and BA Tortuga. Most of their cowboys are older, a bit broken down. Sexy as hell.
Parker travels from Oklahoma to Vermont to spend Christmas with Sky and Beck's family after getting kicked out of his home. They're happy to host him, but their guest room was flooded due to a broken pipe. Beck asks a coworker to house Parker. The two men are attracted to each other and soon temporary housing leads to playing house. Low angst with steamy sizzle. There are plenty of endearments, "honey", "sweetheart" (Payne/Tortuga staples). And nothing says I love you, like traveling 1,600 miles to rescue your partner's doggie.
I received an advanced e copy of this book and this is my review.
Parker travels from Oklahoma to Vermont to spend Christmas with Sky and Beck's family after getting kicked out of his home. They're happy to host him, but their guest room was flooded due to a broken pipe. Beck asks a coworker to house Parker. The two men are attracted to each other and soon temporary housing leads to playing house. Low angst with steamy sizzle. There are plenty of endearments, "honey", "sweetheart" (Payne/Tortuga staples). And nothing says I love you, like traveling 1,600 miles to rescue your partner's doggie.
I received an advanced e copy of this book and this is my review.
February 25, 2026
“A Present for Parker” by Jodi Payne and BA Tortuga is part of ‘The Merry Everything’ series and features Parker, who has been evicted and blindsided, and Heath, who gets roped into hosting him temporarily during the holiday season he prefers to ignore.
This adult gay contemporary holiday romance story does a great job of combining the heartfelt joy of the season with the heartbreak of being condemned for choosing to live your life as you want to. Heath steps up for his friends and business partner and his journey to integrate cowboy Parker into his life provides a lovely holiday tale. As always, the combination of young children and charismatic (or grumpy) pets make the story even more enjoyable.
A copy of this title was provided for review
This adult gay contemporary holiday romance story does a great job of combining the heartfelt joy of the season with the heartbreak of being condemned for choosing to live your life as you want to. Heath steps up for his friends and business partner and his journey to integrate cowboy Parker into his life provides a lovely holiday tale. As always, the combination of young children and charismatic (or grumpy) pets make the story even more enjoyable.
A copy of this title was provided for review
February 23, 2026
Yes, Parker is in need of a home. He heads to visit his friend Sky and his husband and winds up staying with Heath. This turns out to be something that benefits them both. Heath has been on his own and he thought that was his lot but the invitation to dinner and the request that he house Parker turns out to be just what he needed as well. And he is supportive of Parker as well as Parker moves on from the life he left behind. They were truly what each of them needed and this story was emotional, humorous at times but overall hopeful.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received an ARC from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 23, 2026
Another wonderful book from this pair
I do love these authors. They always manage to write books that are heartfelt, heartwarming, deal with tough topics and yet never feel overly heavy. Instead, by the end of the book you feel uplifted. Parker and Heath are no exception. There’s a sweetness to how they fall in love where it’s this soft fall into friendship, companionship and then love. Even when Parker had to deal with the awfulness and sheer cruelty of his family disowning him because he’s gay, he had people to show him that he will always have family and support, even if they’re not blood relations. It’s a lovely sweet read that just makes you feel warm inside.
I do love these authors. They always manage to write books that are heartfelt, heartwarming, deal with tough topics and yet never feel overly heavy. Instead, by the end of the book you feel uplifted. Parker and Heath are no exception. There’s a sweetness to how they fall in love where it’s this soft fall into friendship, companionship and then love. Even when Parker had to deal with the awfulness and sheer cruelty of his family disowning him because he’s gay, he had people to show him that he will always have family and support, even if they’re not blood relations. It’s a lovely sweet read that just makes you feel warm inside.
February 24, 2026
Deliciously sweet! Parker is kicked out of his home and the only place that offers shelter, is at his bestie's Sky's place. Heath, Beckett's business partner, is restoring his farmhouse. He lives a lonely, solitary, stereotypical bachelor's life. Parker stays with Heath because of logistic issues at Sky's house. Parker and Heath are both in vulnerable places in their lives. Jodi and BA, created a sensitive story of friendship, acceptance, comfort and compassion. Good story seeing Parker and Heath, two delightful men owning their truths and opening up. Nice cover art! Good flow, nice characters, well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 1, 2026
Parker a bull rider has been kicked out of his home by his mother, who kept his dog and trailer. With nowhere to go he heads to his best friend’s Sky/Skylar and Beck/Beckett place is Vermont. He is mentally and physically drained, lonely and it’s right before Christmas. Beck is a lawyer who’s partner is Heath also a lawyer. The guest room at Sky and Beck’s place has some repairs going on so they ask Heath if Parker can stay with him. Parker is at the end of his career and Heath a total homebody loves the company. With two meddling friends, it appears to be the best Christmas present ever for both. This is a fast paced romance where opposites attract and a cute dog named Sheila to rescue.
February 10, 2026
Oh I remember Parker! I am so excited to see him find his happy ending. He deserves some happiness and a home to settle in and put down his burden. He loves Skye and Beckett and the kids but when is it his turn? Well turns out, now is the time. Heath is Beck’s law office partner and needs his own cowboy - he just didn’t know it. These two get on like a house on fire and their chemistry will strike the match. They are absolutely perfect for each other and may melt a little bit of snow with the heat. Wonderful addition to the Merry Everything series. Now I have to go read Wrecked again.
February 19, 2026
Cute Holiday Story
3.5 Stars
This was a cute holiday romance with a bull riding cowboy looking for home and a lawyer who finds himself a cowboy for Christmas. Heath and Parker have very similar silly slightly chaotic personalities, I think they mesh very well together. They have similar humour and they’re both immediately attracted to one another. I really liked Parker’s friendship with Sky and Beck in this book and I’m almost sure that Parker and Heath were set up. I was really happy that Parker found a home with Heath and I love how Heath likes Parker exactly as he is. I was a little confused while reading the book though because there was quite a bit of dialogue so I didn’t feel like I understood the character’s background outside of their relationship and outside of this book. It was a little like I was missing some context for the characters maybe because this is the first book I’ve read in the series. I think the relationship moved at a really fast pace and the entire story moved quite quickly so I would’ve loved to know more about Parker and Heath’s backstories and feelings.
Thank you GRR for the ARC!
3.5 Stars
This was a cute holiday romance with a bull riding cowboy looking for home and a lawyer who finds himself a cowboy for Christmas. Heath and Parker have very similar silly slightly chaotic personalities, I think they mesh very well together. They have similar humour and they’re both immediately attracted to one another. I really liked Parker’s friendship with Sky and Beck in this book and I’m almost sure that Parker and Heath were set up. I was really happy that Parker found a home with Heath and I love how Heath likes Parker exactly as he is. I was a little confused while reading the book though because there was quite a bit of dialogue so I didn’t feel like I understood the character’s background outside of their relationship and outside of this book. It was a little like I was missing some context for the characters maybe because this is the first book I’ve read in the series. I think the relationship moved at a really fast pace and the entire story moved quite quickly so I would’ve loved to know more about Parker and Heath’s backstories and feelings.
Thank you GRR for the ARC!
February 19, 2026
I received this from Gay Romance Reviews
This is a super cute Christmas story. I will definitely re-read it at holiday time.
Parker is a retiring bull rider and Heath is a lawyer. Parker ends up staying at Heath’s when his friends, the couple Sky and Beckett, don’t have an extra room for him.
It’s a cute cute cowboy and lawyer love story. Parker’s mom is a super piece of shit though.
Parker’s present is a real family and a home with Heath. And Heath gets a cowboy. So much love and fluff on their road trip and a good amount of steam.
No break up.
This is a super cute Christmas story. I will definitely re-read it at holiday time.
Parker is a retiring bull rider and Heath is a lawyer. Parker ends up staying at Heath’s when his friends, the couple Sky and Beckett, don’t have an extra room for him.
It’s a cute cute cowboy and lawyer love story. Parker’s mom is a super piece of shit though.
Parker’s present is a real family and a home with Heath. And Heath gets a cowboy. So much love and fluff on their road trip and a good amount of steam.
No break up.
March 1, 2026
Heath and Parker are perfect for each other and the way the authors have set up this story so we get to see their meeting over the holidays in Vermont and them working together on Heath’s house renovation. This sets up their friendship and initial attraction perfectly. Then, we get to see their road trip to Oklahoma where Parker’s family has kept his camper and his dog. They retrieve Parker’s possessions and the camper provides the perfect place for their romance to flower. Another wonderful cowboy romance from these two.
March 20, 2026
This story is everything I look to these authors for. An uncomplicated, well-crafted love story with heart warming cowboys. Parker is a bull rider on his own. He was kicked out of his home by his mother just before Christmas. Feeling abandoned, he reaches out to his best friend in Vermont. They welcome him with open arms, but a minor home accident lands him in Heath's guest room. During his time there, Heath is charmed by the cowboy and his work ethic. I loved the theme of found family in these stories. The holiday setting just makes it more magical.
February 13, 2026
This is a really sweet romance and crosses over with the ‘Wrecked’ universe where we first met Parker. It was great to see Skyler and Beckett again and to catch up with them. Parker and Heath are just so right for each other and I loved that Heath took charge and sorted out the problem with Parker’s awful mother! Spoiler alert, Sheila is just the best little thing ever. BA and Jodi have once again given us just what we need, sweetness, romance and a little bit of heat.
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